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Category: Asia Pacific

  • President Murmu honours 15 nurses with National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    President Droupadi Murmu on Friday conferred the National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025 on 15 outstanding nursing professionals in a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhawan. The annual awards recognise the exceptional service and unwavering commitment of nurses from across India, who have played a pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s healthcare delivery system.

    The awardees, drawn from diverse states and healthcare settings, were honoured for their dedication, compassion, and resilience — hallmarks of the nursing profession. This year’s recipients include Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), Lady Health Visitors (LHVs), and Registered Nurses serving in both government and voluntary healthcare services.

    Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, along with Ministers of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav and Anupriya Patel, attended the ceremony.

    Addressing the gathering, Nadda praised the awardees, saying, “This well-deserved recognition celebrates your dedication to serving humanity and will motivate you to keep making a positive impact. Our nurses are the pillars of India’s healthcare system, saving countless lives every single day.”

    Instituted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the National Florence Nightingale Awards include a Certificate of Merit, a medal, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh. The award is presented annually to honour nurses, midwives, and health workers for their distinguished service.

    The Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has undertaken several initiatives to bolster the nursing and midwifery professions. The recent enactment of the National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Act is expected to modernize nursing education and improve regulatory oversight. Additionally, the establishment of 157 nursing colleges alongside medical colleges is aimed at creating a robust, skilled nursing workforce capable of meeting the evolving healthcare needs of the country.

    May 30, 2025

  • Astronomers scrutinize a star behaving unlike any other

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Astronomers have spotted a star acting unlike any other ever observed as it unleashes a curious combination of radio waves and X-rays, pegging it as an exotic member of a class of celestial objects first identified only three years ago.

    It is located in the Milky Way galaxy about 15,000 light-years from Earth in the direction of the constellation Scutum, flashing every 44 minutes in both radio waves and X-ray emissions. A light-year is the distance light travels in a year, 5.9 trillion miles (9.5 trillion km).

    The researchers said it belongs to a class of objects called “long-period radio transients,” known for bright bursts of radio waves that appear every few minutes to several hours.

    This is much longer than the rapid pulses in radio waves typically detected from pulsars – a type of speedily rotating neutron star, the dense collapsed core of a massive star after its death. Pulsars appear, as viewed from Earth, to be blinking on and off on timescales of milliseconds to seconds.

    “What these objects are and how they generate their unusual signals remain a mystery,” said astronomer Ziteng Wang of Curtin University in Australia, lead author of the study published this week in the journal Nature.

    In the new study, the researchers used data from NASA’s orbiting Chandra X-ray Observatory, the ASKAP telescope in Australia and other telescopes.

    While the emission of radio waves from the newly identified object is similar to the approximately 10 other known examples of this class, it is the only one sending out X-rays, according to astrophysicist and study co-author Nanda Rea of the Institute of Space Sciences in Barcelona.

    The researchers have some hypotheses about the nature of this star. They said it may be a magnetar, a spinning neutron star with an extreme magnetic field, or perhaps a white dwarf, a highly compact stellar ember, with a close and quick orbit around a small companion star in what is called a binary system.

    “However, neither of them could explain all observational features we saw,” Wang said.

    Stars with up to eight times the mass of our sun appear destined to end up as a white dwarf. They eventually burn up all the hydrogen they use as fuel. Gravity then causes them to collapse and blow off their outer layers in a “red giant” stage, eventually leaving behind a compact core roughly the diameter of Earth – the white dwarf.

    The observed radio waves potentially could have been generated by the interaction between the white dwarf and the hypothesized companion star, the researchers said.

    “The radio brightness of the object varies a lot. We saw no radio emission from the object before November 2023. And in February 2024, we saw it became extremely bright. Fewer than 30 objects in the sky have ever reached such brightness in radio waves. Remarkably, at the same time, we also detected X-ray pulses from the object. We can still detect it in radio, but much fainter,” Wang said.

    Wang said it is thrilling to see a new type of behavior for stars.

    “The X-ray detection came from NASA’s Chandra space telescope. That part was a lucky break. The telescope was actually pointing at something else, but just happened to catch the source during its ‘crazy’ bright phase. A coincidence like that is really, really rare – like finding a needle in a haystack,” Wang said.

    (Reuters)

    May 30, 2025

  • There could be no greater injustice: PM Modi accuses opposition of betraying Bihar, promises new era of progress

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday took a sharp dig at the opposition during his public rally in Bikramganj, Rohtas district, accusing them of deceiving Bihar for decades and now attempting to misuse the narrative of social justice to regain power. Speaking to a large gathering, PM Modi said that under previous regimes, Bihar’s poor and marginalized communities—especially Dalits, backward classes, and tribal groups—were denied basic amenities and forced to migrate in search of better lives.

    “For decades, Dalits, backward classes, and tribal communities in Bihar lacked even basic sanitation,” PM Modi said. He added that many were denied access to banking services, remained homeless, and lived without proper shelter. “Is this the social justice promised by the opposition? I say there can be no greater injustice than this,” he asserted.

    The Prime Minister criticized opposition parties for not genuinely caring about the struggles of marginalized communities. He also censured them for bringing foreign delegations to Bihar merely to highlight poverty, instead of focusing on development work. PM Modi observed that after losing support among Dalits and other marginalized groups due to their failures, the opposition is now trying to revive its political identity by invoking social justice.

    In contrast, PM Modi highlighted the “new dawn” of social justice under the current government. He said his administration has ensured access to essential services for the poor, aiming to reach 100% of eligible beneficiaries. “Four crore new houses have been provided, and three crore women are being empowered through the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative,” PM Modi said. Over 12 crore households now enjoy tap water connections, improving living standards nationwide.

    He further noted that every senior citizen above 70 is entitled to free medical treatment worth up to ₹5 lakh, while free ration is provided monthly to support the needy. “Our government stands firmly with every poor and underprivileged individual, ensuring their well-being and upliftment,” PM Modi affirmed.

    PM Modi praised Bihar’s launch of the Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Samagra Seva Abhiyan, under which 22 essential welfare schemes are delivered simultaneously to villages, ensuring no eligible family is left behind. He announced that over 30,000 service camps have already connected lakhs of beneficiaries to these programmes, bringing the state closer to the vision of Baba Saheb Ambedkar, Karpoori Thakur, Babu Jagjivan Ram and Jayaprakash Narayan.

    On the infrastructure front, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the Rs 29,930 crore Nabinagar Super Thermal Power Project Stage-II (3×800 MW) in Aurangabad district. The project aims to boost energy security for Bihar and eastern India, stimulate industrial growth, create jobs, and provide affordable electricity.

    He also laid foundation stones for multiple road projects, including the four-laning of Patna–Arrah–Sasaram section of NH-119A, six-laning of the Varanasi–Ranchi–Kolkata highway (NH-319B) and Ramnagar–Kacchi Dargah stretch (NH-119D), and the construction of a new Ganga bridge between Buxar and Bharauli. These projects will improve high-speed connectivity across Bihar, enhancing trade and regional integration.

    PM Modi also inaugurated the four-laning of Patna–Gaya–Dobhi section of NH-22 worth around Rs 5,520 crore and the elevated highway and at-grade improvements in Gopalganj town on NH-27.

    Furthering his commitment to rail infrastructure, PM Modi dedicated the third rail line between Son Nagar and Mohammad Ganj, a project worth over Rs 1,330 crore, to the nation.

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Scheduled Banks’ Statement of Position in India as on Friday, May 16, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    (Amount in ₹ crore)
      SCHEDULED COMMERCIAL BANKS
    (Including RRBs, SFBs and PBs)    		 ALL SCHEDULED BANKS
    17-May-2024 02-May-2025* 16-May-2025* 17-May-2024 02-May-2025* 16-May-2025*
    I LIABILITIES TO THE BKG.SYSTEM (A)            
      a) Demand & Time deposits from banks 289665.55 349543.61 356140.08 293548.27 355582.28 362127.16**
      b) Borrowings from banks 162652.31 110268.37 112764.97 162655.67 110369.38 112767.97
      c) Other demand & time liabilities 74638.62 23238.10 23875.31 74865.42 23598.95 24262.77
    II LIABILITIES TO OTHERS (A)            
      a) Deposits (other than from banks) 20814780.08 23034245.19 22887588.61 21273332.24 23526182.04 23379289.97
      i) Demand 2407754.17 2918312.92 2841891.13 2457236.72 2969172.27 2892038.03
      ii) Time 18407025.91 20115932.27 20045697.48 18816095.52 20557009.77 20487251.94
      b) Borrowings @ 775774.36 868678.78 893728.27 779950.70 873014.81 898148.91
      c) Other demand & time liabilities 911191.51 1032332.99 998206.66 922791.96 1045482.05 1011114.42
    III BORROWINGS FROM R.B.I. (B) 161708.00 23458.00 23081.00 161708.00 23458.00 23081.00
      Against usance bills and / or prom. Notes     0.00     0.00
    IV CASH 84024.93 85894.00 85227.91 86536.63 88644.27 88034.90
    V BALANCES WITH R.B.I. (B) 950567.00 933070.35 928136.28 970618.00 952554.47 947302.36
    VI ASSETS WITH BANKING SYSTEM            
      a) Balances with other banks            
      i) In current accounts 9326.29 11987.03 11091.36 12032.22 14241.88 13330.22
      ii) In other accounts 179256.31 218568.59 233058.58 225178.94 280652.29 295070.10
      b) Money at call & short notice 14392.25 22530.69 17715.86 31978.36 41158.85 35986.40
      c) Advances to banks (i.e. due from bks.) 55883.81 38603.84 39786.83 58023.80 41591.12 42530.76£
      d) Other assets 119988.70 76547.84 78018.32 122833.28 80505.40 81982.16
    VII INVESTMENTS (At book value) 6199638.21 6713623.38 6680561.08 6352519.19 6867766.57 6834811.70
      a) Central & State Govt. securities+ 6198671.95 6713009.68 6680032.89 6344840.42 6859431.14 6826362.09
      b) Other approved securities 966.27 613.70 528.19 7678.77 8335.43 8449.61
    VIII BANK CREDIT (Excluding Inter-Bank Advances) 16601013.84 18284956.79 18228295.86 17036200.63 18752419.76 18695312.44
      a) Loans, cash credits & Overdrafts $ 16288503.21 17944355.56 17891538.64 16720375.59 18408325.48 18355139.20
      b) Inland Bills purchased 63646.64 80615.14 79832.65 63651.17 82034.32 81180.34
      c) Inland Bills discounted 207787.09 223812.18 221259.31 210442.27 224781.12 222739.64
      d) Foreign Bills purchased 16651.15 14036.24 14020.23 16875.71 14258.33 14240.69
      e) Foreign Bills discounted 24425.75 22137.66 21645.03 24855.88 23020.51 22012.57
    NOTE
    * Provisional figures incorporated in respect of such banks as have not been able to submit final figures.
    (A) Demand and Time Liabilities do not include borrowings of any Scheduled State Co-operative Bank from State Government and any reserve fund deposits maintained with such banks by any co-operative society within the areas of operation of such banks.
    ** This excludes deposits of Co-operative Banks with Scheduled State Co-operative Banks. These are included under item II (a).
    @ Other than from Reserve Bank, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development and Export Import Bank of India.
    (B) The figures relating to Scheduled Commercial Banks’ Borrowings in India from Reserve Bank and balances with Reserve Bank are those shown in the statement of affairs of the Reserve Bank. Borrowings against usance bills and/ or promissory notes are under Section 17(4)(c) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. Following a change in the accounting practise for LAF transactions with effect from July 11, 2014, as per the recommendations of Malegam Committee formed to Review the Format of Balance Sheet and the Profit and Loss Account of the Bank, the transactions in case of Repo / Term Repo / MSF are reflected under ‘Borrowings from RBI’.
    £ This excludes advances granted by Scheduled State Co-operative Banks to Co-operative banks. These are included under item VIII (a).
    + Includes Treasury Bills, Treasury Deposits, Treasury Savings Certificates and postal obligations.
    $ Includes advances granted by Scheduled Commercial Banks and Scheduled Cooperative Banks to Public Food Procurement Agencies (viz. Food Corporation of India, State Government and their agencies under the Food consortium).
    Food Credit Outstanding as on
    (Amount in ₹ crore)
    Date 17-May-2024 02-May-2025 16-May-2025
    Scheduled Commercial Banks 41273.49 62446.15 68078.36
    Scheduled Co-operative Banks 50623.09 51972.66 51972.99

    The expression ‘Banking System’ or ‘Banks’ means the banks and any other financial institution referred to in sub-clauses (i) to (vi) of clause (d) of the explanation below Section 42(1) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

    No. of Scheduled Commercial Banks as on Current Fortnight:135

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/440

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 8 skilled trades open to outsiders

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government announced today a new arrangement to allow outside individuals to apply for entry into Hong Kong to join eight skilled trades facing acute manpower shortages.

    The arrangement, which will come into force on June 30, involves the introduction of a new channel under the General Employment Policy (GEP) and the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP).

    Applicants are required to be non-degree professionals aged between 18 and 40 and meet the relevant qualifications specified in the Technical Professional List.

    The arrangement will be piloted for three years. Numbers will be capped at 10,000, including 3,000 for each skilled trade.

    The Technical Professional List covers eight specified skilled trades: new industrialisation technicians; nurses; aircraft maintenance technicians; marine services technicians for local vessels; information technology technicians; lift/escalator technicians; building information modeling co-ordinators; and electrical technicians.

    The Government said the skilled trades identified are all critical to sustaining Hong Kong’s operations as a city, but that they all face acute manpower shortages for at least the next five years as the workforce cannot be replenished locally through training in that time.

    Additionally, the new channel targets mid-level qualified and experienced non-degree technical professionals in specified trades, with a goal to attract them to settle in Hong Kong in the long run. This is distinct from and does not overlap with the existing Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme and sector-specific labour importation schemes.

    The new arrangement will be on a pilot basis for three years, subject to a review after the first year.

    According to prevailing requirements under the GEP and the ASMTP, professionals availing themselves of the new arrangement are required to have secured an employment offer from a local enterprise before applying, while the remuneration involved should be commensurate with the market level for similar jobs.

    Depending on the trade involved and the applicant’s qualifications, the first entry visa will be valid for 24 or 36 months. When applying for visa renewal, a technical professional must continue to be employed in the same skilled trade in Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: From working class pubs to sold-out stadiums: how darts has become a major international sport

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Joshua McLeod, Senior Lecturer in Sport Management, Deakin University

    Few sports have witnessed a transformation as dramatic as darts in recent years.

    From its origins as a pub game stereotypically played with cigarette and beer in hand, darts is now serious business.

    With surging television ratings and huge demand for live events, the growth of darts continues to leave many sports looking on in envy.

    There has been a combination of factors at play – not least one exceptionally prodigious teenager. Before discussing those factors, it’s worth taking a closer look at the numbers.

    Becoming big business

    Darts sits alongside a select few sports to have achieved significant commercial growth over the past decade.

    While not at the scale of sports such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Formula 1, the rise of darts has been prolific.

    In the United Kingdom, a record-breaking peak of 3.7 million viewers watched the 2024 Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) World Championship final. It was Sky Sports’ highest-ever non-soccer broadcast.

    In addition to the PDC World Championship – the sport’s premier knockout event – viewership records were also broken across the 2024 Premier League Darts season, a league-format competition featuring weekly fixtures between top-ranked players.

    On the UK’s Sky Sports, the 15 most-watched nights in the competition’s history all occurred that year.

    The PDC World Championship and Premier League Darts sit alongside the World Matchplay as the “Triple Crown” of most important darts events.

    Outside the UK, darts viewership also continues to grow.

    The Netherlands remains a strong and expanding heartland, while in Germany, viewership for the World Championship final has increased eightfold since 2008.

    In Australia, precise viewing figures are not widely available, but the Foxtel Group’s landmark four-year deal with the PDC in 2023 suggests rising demand.

    Surging audiences are translating into significantly larger broadcast deals.

    In 2025, Sky Sports reportedly outbid Netflix to secure a new £125 million (A$260.3 million) deal for exclusive UK coverage of the PDC for 2026–30. That was double the size of the previous deal.

    In contrast, many other sports face stagnation or even sharp declines in media rights value.

    For instance, the UK Super League rugby’s rights on Sky Sports fell from £40 million (A$83.3 million) per season in 2021 to £21.5 million (A$44.5 million) in 2024.

    Similarly, in soccer, the French Ligue 1’s TV deal with DAZN collapsed due to underwhelming subscriber numbers. Meanwhile, ESPN walked away from its long-standing agreement with Major League Baseball after unsuccessfully trying to cut its US$550 million (A$848 million) annual payment down to $200 million (A$309 million).

    Prize money in darts has also exploded.

    Next year, the winner of the two-week long World Championship will bank £1 million (A$2.08 million) – doubling this year’s purse.

    The prize money was £60,000 (A$124,960) in 2005, representing a 1,567% increase over 20 years.

    Tickets are also hot property. Premier League and World Championship sessions often sell out within minutes worldwide: the UK, Bahrain, New York and even Wollongong have become key stops in darts’ international calendar.

    The recipe for success

    Like Formula 1 and the UFC, darts benefits from being privately operated.

    Without the typical bureaucracy and conflicting interests seen in many traditional sport governing bodies, the PDC can respond more quickly to audience preferences and market opportunities.

    This streamlined, commercially driven approach has been key to darts’ growth.

    The sport has been expertly tailored to modern audiences.

    One of darts’ best-known selling points is the live event experience. The entertainment-first approach is known for loud music, the showmanship of player walk-ons, fancy dress from the crowd and yes, often plenty of alcohol.

    The lines are blurred between sport and party and fans love it.

    Culturally, darts is seen by many as fun, relatable, and rooted in working-class culture. After all, its heritage is in the pub.

    Darts is ideally suited to modern sport media consumption habits: PLD matches last only 20–30 minutes and the up-close TV product works perfectly for social media highlight clips.

    It is also one of the few sports where women compete directly against men.

    This adds another layer of interest for fans and has helped elevate stars such as Fallon Sherrock, who made headlines in 2019 by becoming the first woman to win a match at the PDC World Championship, eventually reaching the final 32.

    A prodigy emerges

    The so-called “Littler Effect” has given darts’ profile a significant boost.

    The emergence of talented teenager Luke Littler has broken new ground for the sport and drawn global interest.

    The English prodigy, who has quickly risen to fame, is by far the sport’s biggest star, but it would be unfair to say darts is a one-man band.

    Luke Humphries and Michael van Gerwen enjoy significant profiles while Phil Taylor is regarded as the sport’s greatest player. Australia’s Simon “The Wizard” Whitlock also forged a successful career.

    There is also colourful two-time world champion Peter Wright.

    Where to from here?

    The success of darts reveals much about modern sports audiences and their preferences.

    Darts does not rely on traditional ideas of athletic excellence, nor does it fit the Olympic ideal.

    Yet, darts is thriving while many traditional sports are stagnating.

    Darts’ success stems from remaining authentic to its working-class roots while evolving into an engaging commercial product suited for television, short-form content and digital media.

    For darts to fully achieve its global potential, the next step has to be continued international growth. Although it has grown steadily in markets like Australia and throughout Asia, the UK remains darts’ dominant base.

    As the global sports marketplace becomes more fragmented and competitive, darts is well positioned to continue growing.

    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. From working class pubs to sold-out stadiums: how darts has become a major international sport – https://theconversation.com/from-working-class-pubs-to-sold-out-stadiums-how-darts-has-become-a-major-international-sport-254807

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Temporary closure of Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park Sports Centre and some facilities

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Temporary closure of Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park Sports Centre and some facilities 

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    Post navigation

    Facilities(area near the promenade in Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park (Note))     After the NG, NGD and NSOG conclude, the facilities will need to be restored and will gradually reopen for public use in the first quarter of 2026.

         During the closure period, members of the public may consider using similar leisure and sports facilities at Hong Kong Park Sports Centre, Shek Tong Tsui Sports Centre, Sheung Wan Sports Centre and Smithfield Sports Centre. Issued at HKT 18:07

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mortgage loans up 2.4%

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The value of residential mortgage loans approved in April was $25.3 billion, a 2.4% increase compared with March, the Monetary Authority announced today.

     

    Mortgage loans financing primary market transactions decreased 7.5% to $9.3 billion, while financing secondary market transactions increased 17.6% to $13.7 billion.

     

    Loans for refinancing decreased 23.5% to $2.3 billion.

     

    Mortgage loans drawn down during April amounted to $17.1 billion, a 7.7% rise from March.

     

    The number of mortgage applications in April dropped 7.8% month-on-month to 7,795.

     

    The outstanding value of mortgage loans increased 0.2% to $1.8819 trillion at end-April.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Exploring Challenges and Opportunities of PPPs in Health Care

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    A public–private partnership (PPP) is a long-term contract between a private entity and a government entity, for providing a public asset or service. It has emerged as a strategic approach in health care, enabling governments to deliver quality medical services efficiently by leveraging private sector expertise, financial resources, and technological advancements. The public partner is typically responsible for project development and planning, providing access to land and utilities, ensuring regulatory compliance, and conducting contract monitoring. On the other hand, the private partner is typically responsible for design, construction, and infrastructure development, bringing in investment and operational expertise, and driving innovation to enhance service efficiency and quality.

    PPPs help address challenges facing health care systems, such as inadequate infrastructure, workforce shortages, financial constraints, and service delivery gaps, by bridging critical gaps in infrastructure, service delivery, and management.

    Different countries have tailored PPP models to address their unique health care needs. The impact of PPPs is particularly significant in addressing the challenges faced by low- and middle-income countries, where health care access and quality are constrained by financial and human resource limitations. For instance, India has demonstrated significant progress in PPP-based health care service delivery, particularly in areas like super specialty hospital development, dialysis services, diagnostic networks, telemedicine initiatives, and medical institutes. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan is actively exploring PPP models to strengthen its health care infrastructure and service provision, with growing emphasis on leveraging private sector participation in tertiary care, diagnostics, and hospital management. The following case studies highlight key lessons from health care PPPs in India and Uzbekistan, showcasing successful models and practical insights for effective implementation

    Upgradation of district hospitals to medical college and hospitals, Uttar Pradesh, India

    Uttar Pradesh, the most populus state of India, faced a critical shortage of medical professionals and tertiary care facilities, particularly in underserved districts. Of the 39 districts lacking medical colleges, 23 were established with state funding. To further bridge the gap, the government launched the “One District, One Medical College” initiative that involves the upgrading of district hospitals to 16 new medical colleges under a PPP model. Of these facilities, four medical colleges are being developed under state incentive schemes, while the development of three medical colleges (based on Design-Build-Finance-Operate and Transfer PPP Model) is supported through Viability Gap Funding.

    Figure 1: Project Structure Using the Design-Build-Finance-Operate and Transfer Model

    Source: Compiled by the Author Team based on NITI Aayog, Government of India. Public Private Partnership in Medical Education Concession Agreement – Guiding Principles. Guidelines for Financial Support to Public Private Partnerships in Infrastructure Viability Gap Funding Scheme, Project Tender Documents. 
    DH = District Hospital, NMC = National Medical Commission, VGF = Viability Gap Funding.

    Over the next 5 years, the project is expected to

    • improve access to medical education, addressing the shortage of trained professionals; 

    • expand tertiary care services in underserved regions;
    • enhance healthcare infrastructure by adding 6,700 beds;
    • enhance workforce availability by adding 1,600 doctors and more than 10,000 clinical workforce; and
    • provide affordable care by providing free inpatient department beds for underserved patients, free essential medicines for government-supported patients, and free outpatient department-related diagnostics; and ensured affordable rates for other patients.

    NephroPlus Dialysis Project in Uzbekistan

    Uzbekistan faced a severe shortage of dialysis centers, leading to high patient mortality and limited access to treatment, especially in remote areas. Existing facilities were overburdened and patients often had to travel long distances for care. To address this, dialysis services are being implemented through a PPP model across three regions in Uzbekistan (Karakalpakstan, Khorezm, and Tashkent), ensuring high-quality care, advanced technology, and cost-effective treatment for patients with renal diseases. The project follows a Build-Operate-Transfer model with a concession period of 10 years.

    From 2021 to 2025, the project achieved the following:

    • provided over 300,000 treatments across three regions;

    • reduced patient mortality by 40% since May 2021;

    • trained and recruited more than 300 clinical nurses and doctors through the NephroPlus Academy;

    • enabled a total savings of $9.8 million for the government; and

    • reduced by 15% country-level Hepatitis C patient count.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 30, 2025

  • Operation Sindoor outreach: Ravi Shankar Prasad-led delegation receives briefing on India-Denmark relations

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation led by senior BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad was given a comprehensive briefing on Thursday by Indian Ambassador to Denmark, Manish Prabhat, as part of India’s ongoing diplomatic outreach under Operation Sindoor.

    The briefing focused on the India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership, shared democratic values, and the global challenge of terrorism.

    “The All-Party Parliamentary Delegation was given a detailed briefing by Ambassador Manish Prabhat on India-Denmark bilateral relations of ‘Green Strategic Partnership’, shared values and issues of mutual concern including the challenge of combating terrorism globally,” the Embassy of India in Copenhagen posted on X.

    The delegation’s visit to Denmark follows a successful leg in Italy, where the group highlighted India’s firm stance against Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism and emphasized the “new normal” policy of zero tolerance.

    During their stay in Copenhagen, the Indian MPs are scheduled to meet with senior Danish leaders, including Deputy Speaker of the Danish Parliament Lars-Christian Brask, Chairman of the Foreign Policy Committee Christian Friis Bach, other sitting Members of Parliament, as well as select former lawmakers, political figures, journalists, and members of the Indian diaspora.

    Earlier on Thursday Ravi Shankar Prasad shared details of the delegation’s engagements with key Italian officials and institutions. “We had enriching interactions with Italy’s Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Maria Tripodi, Senator Giulio Tremonti, President and Members of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and European Commission, in the Chamber of Deputies,” he posted on X.

    “We also engaged with prominent think tanks and strategic experts. We shared India’s zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and our resolve to combat it in all forms. Encouragingly, we found a common understanding between India and Italy on the issue of global terrorism. Both nations affirmed their commitment to working together for peace and amity, underscoring the strong relationship between India and Italy,” he added.

    The nine-member delegation includes BJP leaders Daggubati Purandeswari, Ghulam Ali Khatana, and Samik Bhattacharya; Priyanka Chaturvedi of Shiv Sena (UBT); Amar Singh of the Congress; M. Thambidurai of the AIADMK; former Union Minister M.J. Akbar; and former diplomat Pankaj Saran.

    (With inputs from IANS)

    May 30, 2025

  • PM Modi stresses green energy, infrastructure growth and farmer welfare in Bihar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday, underlined the central government’s commitment to building a modern and self-reliant Bihar, with a strong focus on green energy, infrastructure development, and farmer welfare.

    Addressing a gathering in Bihar’s Karakat, PM Modi highlighted the ongoing construction of a solar park in Kajra as a step towards increasing the state’s renewable energy capacity. He said the initiative aligns with the larger national agenda of clean energy transition and reflects the government’s resolve to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

    Speaking on the benefits of the PM-KUSUM scheme, the Prime Minister said farmers are being empowered to generate additional income through solar energy. He also noted that the use of renewable-powered agricultural feeders is ensuring a reliable power supply to farmlands, contributing to enhanced agricultural productivity. “These efforts have not only improved the quality of life in rural areas but have also ensured greater safety for women,” he added.

    The Prime Minister emphasised that modern infrastructure brings maximum benefits to villages, the poor, farmers, and small industries by linking them to national and international markets. He said that new investments in the state are generating new employment opportunities and propelling economic growth.

    Recalling the Bihar Business Summit held last year, PM Modi noted that several companies had expressed interest in investing in the state. He said the resulting industrial development is helping reduce migration by enabling people to find jobs closer to home. Improved transportation facilities, he added, are allowing farmers to market their produce across wider regions, further boosting the agricultural economy.

    Reiterating the government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers, the Prime Minister said over 75 lakh farmers in Bihar are benefitting from the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. He announced the setting up of a Makhana Board in the state and highlighted that Bihar’s Makhana has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which is helping farmers gain better recognition and returns for their produce.

    He also said the Union Budget this year has made provisions for setting up a National Institute for Food Processing in Bihar, which will further support the food processing industry and benefit local farmers.

    In a major announcement, the Prime Minister informed the public that the Union Cabinet has recently approved an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 14 Kharif crops, including paddy. He said the decision would ensure better returns for farmers and boost their income during the upcoming crop season.

    The Prime Minister’s address was part of a larger event during which he launched and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth ₹48,500 crore, encompassing infrastructure, energy, transport, and agriculture.

     

    May 30, 2025

  • Sanjay Jha-led delegation meets Islamic leaders in Indonesia, reaffirms India’s zero-tolerance stand against terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation, led by JD-U MP Sanjay Kumar Jha, on Friday met with KH Ulil Abshar Abdalla, Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU), and Kholili Kholil, Committee Member of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) in Indonesia, the world’s largest Islamic organisation, and sought their support against violence and religious extremism.

    “Honoured to meet KH Ulil Abshar Abdalla, Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board, and Kholili Kholil, Committee Member of Nahdlatul Ulama – the world’s largest Islamic organisation. Our All-Party Parliamentary Delegation reaffirmed India’s resolute stand against terrorism and sought support in countering religious extremism,” Sanjay Jha posted on X.

    “As nations bound by the values of ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’ (Unity in Diversity), we called for shared voices to champion peace and justice. KH Ulil expressed deep solidarity with India, strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack, and affirmed the need for India and Indonesia to walk together for peace, cooperation, and progress,” the post added.

    Condemning the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people, KH Ulil said he felt the pain and called for India and Indonesia to walk hand in hand to promote peace and economic development.

    Earlier on Thursday, the delegation interacted with the resident Ambassadors of friendly diplomatic missions of around 20 countries in Indonesia, sharing detailed insights on Operation Sindoor and clearly explaining the role of Pakistan in the gruesome April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

    They highlighted India’s measured, non-escalatory, and targeted response following the Pahalgam attack.

    Later, the visiting delegation met the leaders of the National Mandate Party (PAN) of Indonesia including Eddy Soeparno, Vice Chairman of PAN and Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian People’s Assembly, and Viva Yoga Mauladi, Vice Chairman of the Party and also Deputy Minister for Transmigration Republic of Indonesia, along with other leaders and Members of Parliament from PAN sharing views on India’s stance on zero tolerance for terrorism.

    The Indian MPs also had meaningful discussions with researchers and scholars of various think tanks and academia in Indonesia.

    The delegation comprises BJP MPs Aparajita Sarangi, Brij Lal, Hemang Joshi, and Pradan Baruah, Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee, CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member John Barittas, senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid, and Former Indian Ambassador to France, Mohan Kumar.

    (With inputs from IANS)

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HA pools resources to strengthen nursing education and cultivate next generation of nursing talent

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HA pools resources to strengthen nursing education and cultivate next generation of nursing talent 
         The HA Nursing School will co-ordinate various nursing training programmes. Students will be able to share the teaching resources and facilities currently available at the four nursing schools, which will help provide a more diversified teaching and training model as well as more flexible clinical placement arrangements. It will also leverage the unique strengths of each school to design programmes and subjects that suit their own characteristics, providing students and teaching staff with more comprehensive training and development opportunities.
     
         Speaking at today’s inauguration ceremony of the HA Nursing School, the Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Tony Ko, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to nursing education. He said, “The HA attaches great importance to the professional training and development of nurses. I believe that the HA Nursing School will lead our nursing training programmes to a new level through curriculum innovation and enhanced teaching quality to cultivate competent, compassionate, and patient-centred healthcare professionals who can meet the evolving healthcare needs.”
     
         The Head of the HA Academy, Dr David Sun, said, “We anticipate four major advantages following the integration of the HA’s nursing schools. We will be able to facilitate flexible management and allocation of teaching resources to prepare for providing more nursing education opportunities, offering more continuous learning opportunities for both aspiring nurses and existing nursing staff. The integration will help streamline administrative work by reducing duplicative or unnecessary procedures while further enhancing teaching standards. It will also promote exchanges and collaboration with universities, specialty colleges, the Nursing Council of Hong Kong, and nursing schools worldwide. Furthermore, this will provide students and teaching staff with more diverse opportunities for learning, exchanges, and broadening horizons as well as a more enriching campus life.”
     
         The same day, the HA also held a graduation ceremony for the Professional Diploma in Nursing (PDN) Programme 2025. About 300 graduates from the HA Nursing School completed their 3.5-year training and qualified as registered nurses, ready to join the healthcare workforce.
     
         In his address, the Chief Manager (Nursing) of the HA, Dr Danny Tong, encouraged the graduates to uphold the spirit of people-centred care. He said, “The HA has always been dedicated to nurturing nursing talents. We value not only clinical expertise but also the fostering of their core nursing values. Remember to stay true to your aspirations and serve the community with empathy, professionalism and dedication.”
     
         Three outstanding graduates, Mr Lo Ming Laam (CMC), Miss Zoe Chan (QEH) and Mr Leung Kin Lok (TMH), shared that their learning experiences at the HA Nursing School had been very rewarding. They pointed that the Programme emphasised both theoretical knowledge and practical application, which deepened their understanding of holistic care. They pledged on behalf of all graduates to apply their knowledge and provide high-quality nursing services to patients and the community.
     
         The HA’s 3.5-year full time PDN Programme is currently open for enrollment, offering 300 places. On completion of the PDN Programme, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a Registered Nurse (General) under the Nursing Council of Hong Kong. The deadline for applications is August 8. For details, please visit the HA’s website
    www.ha.org.hk/visitor/ha_visitor_index.asp?Content_ID=251613&Lang=ENG&Dimension=100Issued at HKT 17:47

    NNNN

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

  • Era of broken roads and poor connectivity in Bihar is over, says PM Modi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday underscored the crucial role of security and peace in unlocking Bihar’s development potential, recalling that the state’s journey from the days of ‘Jungle Raj’ to prosperity began under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership. Addressing a large public gathering in Bihar, he noted that dilapidated highways, rundown rail networks, and scant air connectivity now belong to the past.

    PM Modi highlighted the transformation of Bihar’s aviation landscape. “Once, Patna was our state’s only airport,” he said. “Today, Darbhanga Airport is fully operational, offering direct flights to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.” He further announced that the new terminal at Patna Airport—capable of handling one crore passengers annually—was inaugurated just the previous evening. An additional ₹1,400 crore investment will now be channelled into developing Bihta Airport, he added.

    Turning to roads and bridges, the Prime Minister described the rapid expansion of multi-lane highways. He cited the four-lane corridors from Patna to Buxar and Gaya to Dobhi, as well as the Patna–Ara–Sasaram Greenfield Corridor, which he said is progressing at a “swift pace.” “New bridges over the Ganga, Son, Gandak, and Kosi rivers are not just steel and concrete; they are gateways to opportunity,” Modi remarked, pointing out that these projects—worth several thousand crores—are generating employment for thousands of young people and fueling growth in tourism and trade.

    On railways, PM Modi lauded the introduction of world-class Vande Bharat trains in Bihar and the ongoing doubling and tripling of key lines. “Work is advancing rapidly from Chhapra to Muzaffarpur to Katihar,” he noted, adding that multi-tracking between Son Nagar and Andal will significantly enhance train movement. “Over 100 trains now halt at Sasaram, a testament to our improved connectivity,” he said, while lamenting that previous administrations had exploited recruitment processes, delaying the railway network’s modernization.

    Emphasizing that development is incomplete without reliable power, the Prime Minister drew attention to Bihar’s remarkable growth in electricity consumption—now four times higher than a decade ago. He announced the construction of a major NTPC power plant at Nabinagar, with an outlay of ₹30,000 crore and a capacity of 1,500 megawatts. Projects for new thermal power plants in Buxar and Pirpainti have also been initiated, he added.

    May 30, 2025

  • First women cadets graduate from NDA in historic passing out parade

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a major step towards gender inclusivity in the Indian Armed Forces, the National Defence Academy (NDA) conducted its 148th Passing Out Parade on Friday, marking a historic milestone as the first batch of women cadets graduated. Held at the NDA campus in Khadakwasla, Pune, the event highlighted the growing role and representation of women in the nation’s military leadership.

    The event was reviewed by General Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd), the Governor of Mizoram and former Chief of the Army Staff (COAS). The ceremony saw attendance from proud families, senior military officials, and dignitaries from across the country.

    Calling it a “significant and historic” occasion, General VK Singh praised the pioneering spirit of the graduating women cadets. “This marks a historic milestone in our collective journey towards inclusivity and empowerment. These women represent ‘Nari Shakti’—not just in women’s development, but in women-led development,” he said.

    The parade signifies a turning point in the NDA’s 75-year history, where for the first time, women will join the ranks of commissioned officers after rigorous training alongside their male counterparts.

    A day earlier, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended the increasing role of women in the armed forces while addressing a gathering in Goa at the flag-in ceremony of the Indian Navy sailing vessel INSV Tarini. The event celebrated the return of Lt Commander Dilna K and Lt Commander Roopa, who successfully completed a circumnavigation of the globe in double-handed mode as part of the ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama II’ mission. The duo became the first Indian women to achieve this feat with only two crew members on board.

    The Defence Minister also highlighted the contribution of women during recent military operations, notably Operation Sindoor. “Women pilots and other female soldiers played a crucial role in India’s decisive actions against terrorism in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir,” Singh said.

    Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7 in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives and injured many more. The operation targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the elimination of over 100 militants affiliated with groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.

    “From the heights of Siachen to the depths of the ocean, Indian women are serving the nation with distinction. Today, the gates of Sainik Schools are open to girls, and 17 women cadets have graduated from the NDA this month. Their achievements have strengthened the security fabric of our country,” the Defence Minister added.

    (With ANI inputs)

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 18 persons arrested during anti-illegal worker operations (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Immigration Department (ImmD) mounted a series of territory-wide anti-illegal worker operations codenamed “Contribute”, “Rally” and “Twilight”, on May 26, 28, and yesterday (May 29) respectively. A total of 15 suspected illegal workers and three suspected employers were arrested.

    During the anti-illegal worker operations, ImmD Task Force officers raided 294 target locations including a construction site, residential buildings and restaurants. Fifteen suspected illegal workers and three suspected employers were arrested. The arrested suspected illegal workers comprised 10 men and five women, aged 26 to 67. Among them, seven men and three women were holders of recognisance forms, which prohibit them from taking any employment. In addition, two men and two women were also suspected of using and being in possession of a forged Hong Kong identity card. Three men, aged 29 to 59, were suspected of employing the illegal workers and were also arrested.

    An ImmD spokesman said, “Any person who contravenes a condition of stay in force in respect of him or her shall be guilty of an offence. Also, visitors are not allowed to take employment in Hong Kong, whether paid or unpaid, without the permission of the Director of Immigration. Offenders are liable to prosecution and upon conviction face a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to two years’ imprisonment. Aiders and abettors are also liable to prosecution and penalties.”

    The spokesman warned, “As stipulated in section 38AA of the Immigration Ordinance, an illegal immigrant, a person who is the subject of a removal order or a deportation order, an overstayer or a person who was refused permission to land is prohibited from taking any employment, whether paid or unpaid, or establishing or joining any business. Offenders are liable upon conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to three years’ imprisonment. As stipulated in section 20(1)(a) of the Immigration Ordinance, the Chief Executive may make a deportation order against an immigrant, prohibiting the immigrant from being in Hong Kong at any time thereafter if the immigrant has been found guilty in Hong Kong of an offence punishable by imprisonment for not less than two years. Under the prevailing laws, it is an offence to use or possess a forged Hong Kong identity card or a Hong Kong identity card related to another person. Offenders are liable to prosecution and upon conviction face a maximum fine of $100,000 and up to 10 years’ imprisonment.”

    The spokesman reiterated that it is a serious offence to employ people who are not lawfully employable. Under the Immigration Ordinance, the maximum penalty for an employer employing a person who is not lawfully employable, i.e. an illegal immigrant, a person who is the subject of a removal order or a deportation order, an overstayer or a person who was refused permission to land, has been significantly increased from a fine of $350,000 and three years’ imprisonment to a fine of $500,000 and 10 years’ imprisonment to reflect the gravity of such offences. The director, manager, secretary, partner, etc, of the company concerned may also bear criminal liability. The High Court has laid down sentencing guidelines that the employer of an illegal worker should be given an immediate custodial sentence.

    According to the court sentencing, employers must take all practicable steps to determine whether a person is lawfully employable prior to employment. Apart from inspecting a prospective employee’s identity card, the employer has the explicit duty to make enquiries regarding the person and ensure that the answers would not cast any reasonable doubt concerning the lawful employability of the person. The court will not accept failure to do so as a defence in proceedings. It is also an offence if an employer fails to inspect the job seeker’s valid travel document if the job seeker does not have a Hong Kong permanent identity card. Offenders are liable upon conviction to a maximum fine of $150,000 and to imprisonment for one year. In that connection, the spokesman would like to remind all employers not to defy the law by employing illegal workers. The ImmD will continue to take resolute enforcement action to combat such offences.

    Under the existing mechanism, the ImmD will, as a standard procedure, conduct an initial screening of vulnerable persons, including illegal workers, illegal immigrants, sex workers and foreign domestic helpers, who are arrested during any operation with a view to ascertaining whether they are trafficking in persons (TIP) victims. When any TIP indicator is revealed in the initial screening, the ImmD officers will conduct a full debriefing and identification by using a standardised checklist to ascertain the presence of TIP elements, such as threats and coercion in the recruitment phase and the nature of exploitation. Identified TIP victims will be provided with various forms of support and assistance, including urgent intervention, medical services, counselling, shelter or temporary accommodation and other supporting services. The ImmD calls on TIP victims to report crimes to the relevant departments immediately.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: IOMed serves as important legal public good for improving global governance: Chinese FM

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

    The International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) serves as an important legal public good for improving global governance, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in Hong Kong on Friday.

    Delivering a speech at the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the IOMed, Wang said that as an innovative initiative in the field of international rule of law, IOMed holds significant importance in the history of international relations.

    The establishment of the IOMed embodies the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and aims to fill the gap in mechanisms for international mediation, he said.

    The Chinese side expects all signatory countries to ratify the convention as soon as possible and welcomes more countries to actively join, said Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • France may toughen stance on Israel if it continues blocking Gaza aid, Macron says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    France could harden its position on Israel if it continues to block humanitarian aid to Gaza, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Friday, reiterating that Paris was committed to a two-state solution to resolve the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

    “The humanitarian blockade is creating a situation that is untenable on the ground,” Macron said at a joint press conference in Singapore with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

    “And so, if there is no response that meets the humanitarian situation in the coming hours and days, obviously, we will have to toughen our collective position,” Macron said, adding that France may consider applying sanctions against Israeli settlers.

    “But I still hope that the government of Israel will change its stance and that we will finally have a humanitarian response”.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has hit back at growing international pressure over the war in Gaza, the deadliest fighting in decades of conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.

    Macron was in Singapore on a state visit and he will also deliver the keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia’s premier security forum, which runs this year from May 30-June 1.

    Deep differences between Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israel have stymied previous attempts to restore a ceasefire that broke down in March.

    Under growing international pressure, Israel partially ended an 11-week long aid blockade on Gaza 10 days ago. It has allowed a limited amount of relief to be delivered via two avenues – the United Nations or the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

    The French president said Paris is committed to working towards a political solution and reiterated his support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

    Macron is leaning towards recognising a Palestinian state, diplomats and experts say, a move that could infuriate Israel and deepen Western splits.

    French officials are weighing up the move ahead of a United Nations conference, which France and Saudi Arabia are co-hosting between June 17-20, to lay out the parameters for a roadmap to a Palestinian state, while ensuring Israel’s security.

    Israel launched its campaign in Gaza in response to a Hamas attack in its south on October 7, 2023, that killed some 1,200 people and saw 251 Israelis taken hostage into Gaza, according to Israeli tallies.

    The war since then has killed around 54,000 Palestinians, Palestinian health authorities say, more than in any other of the countless rounds of fighting between the two sides.

    (Reuters)

    May 30, 2025

  • PM Modi meets IPL star Vaibhav Suryavanshi and his parents in Patna

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday met 14-year-old cricket prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi and his parents at Patna Airport during his two-day visit to Bihar. The meeting took place shortly before the Prime Minister departed for a major public event in Bikramganj, where he is scheduled to inaugurate infrastructure projects worth ₹48,500 crore.

    In a post on X, PM Modi said, “At Patna airport, met the young cricketing sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi and his family. His cricketing skills are being admired all over the nation! My best wishes to him for his future endeavours.”

    Suryavanshi, who has captured the nation’s attention during the IPL 2025 season, became the youngest player to score a century in the tournament’s history. He was signed by Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.1 crore in the last auction and has scored 252 runs in seven matches, including a record-breaking 35-ball century and a half-century.

    His recent performances have earned him a spot in India’s U19 squad for the England tour scheduled from June 24 to July 23. The tour includes a 50-over warm-up match, five Youth ODIs, and two multi-day matches against England U19.

    Earlier this month, during the inauguration of the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 in Bihar, PM Modi had praised the youngster’s extraordinary achievements. “We have seen the outstanding performance of the son of Bihar, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, in the IPL,” the Prime Minister had said. “Behind his success lies not just talent, but tireless hard work and constant exposure at different levels of the game.”

    Suryavanshi’s cricket journey has been historic. He made his first-class debut for Bihar at just 12 years and 284 days and scored a half-century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. On the international stage, he holds the record for the fastest youth Test century by an Indian, a 58-ball ton against Australia, and was instrumental in India’s campaign in the ACC U19 Asia Cup.

    The young cricketer’s rise has been hailed as one of Indian cricket’s most remarkable stories in recent times, and his meeting with the Prime Minister is seen as both a recognition of his early success and encouragement for the road ahead.

    -IANS

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKMA warns public of fraudulent social media accounts impersonating HKMA Chief Executive

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    ​The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) today (May 30) urged members of the public to be vigilant against fraudulent social media accounts impersonating the Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Eddie Yue. The HKMA clarified that its latest news and work priorities are only disseminated through official channels, including the official website and social media accounts (for details, please visit www.hkma.gov.hk). Any other personal social media accounts or pages claiming to represent the HKMA Chief Executive are fake.

    The public should disregard any information disseminated on suspicious websites, social media accounts or pages.

    The incident has been reported to the Police for follow up.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

  • Our armed forces turned terror hideouts into ruins: PM Modi on Operation Sindoor

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Karakat in Bihar on Friday, laid the foundation stone and dedicated multiple development projects worth over ₹48,520 crore, marking a major step towards boosting infrastructure and economic progress in the state.

    Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister said he felt honoured to accelerate Bihar’s development from its sacred soil. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of the state for their continued support, especially acknowledging the presence and blessings of thousands of women in the audience. “The affection and trust shown by the people of Bihar, particularly our mothers and sisters, is a great source of strength,” he said.

    During his address, Prime Minister Modi referred to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed several innocent lives. Recalling his earlier visit to Bihar in the aftermath of the attack, he said he had promised the nation that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. “Today, I stand before you having fulfilled that pledge. Our armed forces turned the hideouts of those who conspired from across the border into rubble,” he stated.

    The Prime Minister underlined that the swift and decisive response by India’s forces had sent a strong message to the world. “This is the new India. The world has seen the power of the sindoor of our daughters. The terrorists, once emboldened by protection across the border, now cower in fear,” he added, referring to the military action termed Operation Sindoor.

    Describing the operation as a testament to India’s growing strength and resolve, PM Modi said the country’s military struck key enemy positions, including airbases and military installations, within minutes. “This is the India of resilience, courage and swift action,” he asserted.

    Paying tribute to Bihar’s legacy of bravery, the Prime Minister invoked the memory of Veer Kunwar Singh and noted the substantial contribution of the state’s youth to the Indian Army and Border Security Force (BSF). He praised the BSF’s valour during Operation Sindoor and described them as an unbreakable shield protecting India’s borders.

    PM Modi also honoured BSF Sub-Inspector Imtiaz, a native of Bihar, who was martyred in the line of duty on May 10. “The sacrifice of Bihar’s brave son will always be remembered,” he said.

    Reiterating his earlier statement from Bihar, the Prime Minister said that Operation Sindoor was just a glimpse of India’s capabilities. “This was only one arrow from our quiver,” he declared, reinforcing the message of a strong and assertive India.

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A like-minded partnership on Cyber and Capability Collaboration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    A like-minded partnership on Cyber and Capability Collaboration

    As we face complex technological challenges, sharing knowledge and expertise with our allies is essential to safeguard our mutual interests and strengthen our national security.

    The UK and Japan continue to deepen their strategic collaboration in cyber, working together to uphold a free, open, and secure digital world. From joint cyber exercises to the responsible use of cyber power, this like-minded partnership strengthens resilience and sets the global example of trusted cooperation in the cyber domain.

    DSEI Japan – Last week, Strategic Command was proud to lead the MOD presence at DSEI Japan in support of UK Defence and Security Exports (UKDSE) and Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry (Min(DPI)), the Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP.

    DSEI Japan is Asia’s only integrated Defence and Security Expo and, to some extent emulates the long-running UK model. As a forum, and in terms of its wider international importance, it is growing exponentially. This year DSEI Japan involved over 100 countries and delegations and over 300 exhibitors. For the first time DSEI Japan featured a keynote address from the Japanese Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba.

    The MOD delegation was in Japan to support UKDSE and the UK’s wider prosperity agenda, as well as supporting outreach on behalf of UK industry and Small and Medium-sized enterprises. Presentations at the MOD stand focussed on driving innovation, the Cyber & Electromagnetic (Cyber & EM) Domain and Global Strategic Trends 7.

    Working Together in Cyberspace

    Our involvement in DSEI was preceded by a joint UK-Japan cyber seminar at the British Embassy in Tokyo. The event signalled the next stage in the maturing of our bilateral co-operation across the Cyber Domain.

    HMA Julia Longbottom and Lt Gen Tom Copinger-Symes led the seminar with approximately 100 invited guests from across the Japanese MOD, and related think-tanks and media.  

    Japan is embracing the concept of Active Cyber Defence. Considerable resources and effort are being put into understanding the Cyber Threat and the whole of society response that is needed to maintain cyber security. New legislation has pushed the boundaries of Japan’s approach to Cyber providing new means for the Japanese MOD to protect citizens and continue to defend Japanese networks.

    The Active Cyber Defence legislation provides Japan with the legal permissions to – having been blocked by the constitution for over 70 years – intercept communications data for the purposes of cyber security and, in severe situations, to deliver offensive cyber operations. It also enables reforms to Japan’s cyber structures and public-private partnership mechanisms. The adoption of the Active Cyber Defence legislation is a significant milestone, as it meant flexing the boundaries of Japan’s constitution and long-standing political conventions.

    There is much both the UK and Japan can do to learn from each other, both in terms of training and supporting our people, but also operating differently to address cross-cutting threats to our ways of living, which demand and need whole of society responses. The UK’s Cyber Primer provides one model for how this can be done.

    Lt Gen Tom Copinger-Symes followed his presentation by giving a pooled interview to the Japanese media, during which he complimented the Japanese Government and MOD on the novel and far-sighted nature of their reforms. Calling it a foundation for “genuinely strong cooperation”, he reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to working with Japan and other partners to address threats.

    With reference to the recent, and ground-breaking legislation on Active Cyber Defence, HMA Tokyo, Julia Longbottom, said

    … we often say cyber is a team sport, but I’d go one step further and call it an international team sport relying on us all to play our part. So, it is only right that we commend that team. From the Japanese politicians, officials and experts who have been involved in the development of the legislation. To like-minded partners, industry and my own team for their tireless work to share lessons and learn from Japan’s transformational reforms.

    Deepening our Strategic Collaboration

    The MOD presence also served to highlight the continued importance attached to Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) and the close working partnership we enjoy with Japan and Italy, as partners in the development of this sixth-generation capability. Detailed conversations with our Japanese partners also emphasised the importance of the digital enablement of GCAP, including the overarching digital backbone and related architecture.

    In her keynote address, Min(DPI) emphasised the importance of the UK and Japan working together as trusted partners. Similarly, in her interview with Nikkei, she reinforced the importance of international collaboration by necessity, and the benefits of like-minded partners working increasingly together. The need to work differently with industry, particularly in the newer domains of Cyber & EM was also brought to the fore by Lt Gen Tom Copinger-Symes – here.

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    Published 30 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Mishutin held a meeting on the situation in the coal industry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    M. Mishustin: “This is one of the basic industries that ensures the stable operation of the most important sectors of the economy, including metallurgy, electric power, and housing and utilities. It also participates in solving social problems.”

    Opening remarks by Mikhail Mishustin:

    Good afternoon, dear colleagues!

    Opening remarks by Mikhail Mishustin at a meeting on the situation in the coal industry

    11 hours ago

    Today we will discuss the situation in the coal industry. This is one of the basic industries that ensures the stable operation of the most important sectors of the economy, including metallurgy, electric power and housing and utilities. It also participates in solving social problems.

    In this area, Russia is one of the three largest exporters. This means that incentives are being created for the development of transport infrastructure, primarily railways. The main sales markets here are China, India, Turkey and Korea, as well as other countries in Southeast Asia and Africa.

    On the instructions of the President, the Government has implemented a number of measures to support the industry. In particular, an agreement was concluded between Russian Railways and the Kemerovo Region on the guaranteed export of significant volumes of coal in the eastern direction. The share of innovative rolling stock has been increased. Rates for wagon operators and for transshipment in ports have been reduced. An end-to-end transportation technology has been introduced, which has made it possible to reduce delivery time from Kuzbass to southern ports by almost half, which significantly reduces companies’ transportation costs.

    Participants of the meeting

    List of participants of the meeting on the situation in the coal industry

    The federal budget financed measures to restructure the coal industry. The funds were used to resettle citizens, as well as for social support for employees dismissed due to the liquidation of organizations, for additional pension provision, technical and other purposes.

    A program is being implemented to further improve working conditions, increase the safety of mining operations and, of course, reduce accidents and injuries.

    Mikhail Mishutin held a meeting on the situation in the coal industry

    May 30, 2025

    Mikhail Mishutin held a meeting on the situation in the coal industry

    May 30, 2025

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    Mikhail Mishutin held a meeting on the situation in the coal industry

    The corresponding infrastructure is also being developed. Operation of the Pacific Railway has begun, construction of the ports of Elga and Lavna is underway. Coal mining centers are being created in the east of the country with favorable mining and geological occurrence of raw materials. And a shorter transportation shoulder to the main sales markets.

    New technologies and modern equipment are also being actively introduced. This allows for a significant increase in extraction efficiency and productivity. If in Soviet times about one and a half million people worked in the industry, then according to the results of last year – only slightly more than 150 thousand. At the same time, the volume of extracted raw materials exceeded the values of the last years of the USSR by almost fifteen million tons.

    It is obvious that the innovative potential of the coal industry is far from exhausted. Enterprises are engaged in the implementation of three-dimensional modeling technologies, optimization of mine equipment, coal extraction, including at low-power seams.

    In recent years, the industry has faced new serious challenges. World prices for all types of such fuel have fallen sharply. This year, unfortunately, the situation continues to worsen. In the first four months, export prices have fallen by almost a quarter. The situation is also complicated by the high debt load of companies. Significant expenses are required to maintain current operations, ensure industrial safety, labor protection and the environment.

    A whole series of measures have been developed to level the situation. It is necessary to help promising organizations that are experiencing temporary difficulties.

    In agreement with the President, I gave the corresponding instructions to the Minister of Finance Anton Germanovich Siluanov, the Minister of Energy Sergey Evgenievich Tsivilev, and the head of Russian Railways Oleg Valentinovich Belozerov. They visited the Kemerovo Region, discussed the most pressing issues with the management and employees of coal enterprises, and presented me with a number of proposals. Now we will discuss all of this in detail and report to the President.

    We hope that this will allow us to make all the necessary decisions to balance the situation.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN Special Envoy for Road Safety in Djibouti and Kenya to support initiatives to increase road safety

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, will visit Djibouti and Kenya from 27 May to 4 June 2025 to support global and national authorities’ road safety initiatives.  

    The Special Envoy will meet members of the Government as well as representatives of the private and public sectors three months after the Declaration of Marrakesh where Member states further committed to accelerate efforts for achieving the Decade of Action for Road Safety‘s goal of halving the number of the victims on the road by 2030.  

    The Silent pandemic on the road  

    The Special Envoy qualified road crashes as “The Silent Pandemic on the Road”. Indeed, every year, the staggering toll of road-related fatalities globally claims the lives of 1.19 million people, leaving 50 million others with severe injuries. Furthermore, road crashes are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5–29 years.   

    “Africa is the continent proportionately most affected by road crashes. Knowing that these affect the youngest first, beyond the human tragedy this is an economic devastation, sacrificing or invalidating for life the active force of a country. While the vaccine to avoid this carnage on the road exists, I urgently call on everyone to use it”, stressed the Special Envoy. 

    The continent loses annually over 300,000 people through road crashes, even though its countries are witnessing the lowest levels of motorization in the world. Africa has a traffic fatality rate of 19.5 deaths per 100,000 people compared to 16 deaths per 100,000 in Southeast Asia, and 6.5 deaths per 100,000 in Europe.   

    38% of fatalities occur among pedestrians while 43 percent occur among car occupants. Motorized 2-3 wheelers and cyclists account for 7% and 5% of Africa’s traffic deaths respectively. A significant proportion of road fatalities on the continent occur in urban areas.  Furthermore, the ongoing improvement of the quality and coverage of Africa’s roads is likely to increase crashes if it is not accompanied by appropriate road safety measures.   

    Towards enhanced road safety in Djibouti 

    The fatality rate in Djibouti is 23/100,000 inhabitants (WHO 2023). Road safety remains a critical public health and development challenge. As part of his ongoing global advocacy, the Special Envoy will engage national authorities and partners in strengthening road safety efforts. 

    During the mission, Mr. Todt will meet with senior government officials to encourage the implementation of effective road safety legislation, improved enforcement, safer infrastructure, and better post-crash care. Discussions will also focus on the importance of data collection, education campaigns—particularly in schools—and the protection of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, motorcyclists, and children.  

    Safer roads for economic growth in Kenya   

    The fatality rate in Kenya is estimated at 27.8 per 100,000 inhabitants (WHO, 2023), among the highest in Africa. Despite progress in policy and institutional frameworks, road traffic injuries remain a major public health concern, particularly affecting pedestrians, motorcyclists, and passengers. Kenya’s expanding road network is often challenged by infrastructure gaps, poor road user behavior, and limited enforcement capacity, especially outside major urban centers. 

    According to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), over 4,000 people lost their lives on Kenyan roads in 2023. Motorcycles—commonly used for short-distance transport (boda-bodas)—are involved in a significant share of crashes, with helmet non-use and overloading being frequent risk factors. This is especially concerning when we know that quality helmets reduce the risk of death by over six times and brain injury by up to 74% (WHO, 2023). 

    Since the last visit by the Special Envoy in 2024, UN Kenya has moved towards more concerted action on road safety. Going forward, UN Kenya will target particular blackspots for accidents and explore how to mobilize road safety ambassadors and Kenyan celebrities in sports to drive awareness on road safety in Kenya.   

    Photo credit: Adobe Stock Images by Eunika Sopotnicka 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: International Reserves and Foreign Currency Liquidity

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) released today (May 30) the analytical data on the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s foreign currency reserves and foreign currency liquidity as at the end of April 2025 (Annex). These data are published monthly in the Template on International Reserves and Foreign Currency Liquidity in accordance with the International Monetary Fund’s Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS).
     
    ****
     
    At present, four press releases relating to the Exchange Fund’s data are issued by the HKMA each month. Three of these releases are issued to disseminate monetary data in accordance with the International Monetary Fund’s SDDS. The fourth press release, on the Exchange Fund’s Abridged Balance Sheet and Currency Board Account, is made in accordance with the HKMA’s policy of maintaining a high level of transparency. For the month of May 2025, the scheduled dates for issuing the press releases are as follows:
     

    May 8
    (Issued)    		 SDDS International Reserves
    (Hong Kong’s Latest Foreign Currency Reserve Assets Figures)
    May 14
    (Issued)    		 SDDS Analytical Accounts of the Central Bank
     (Analytical Accounts of the Exchange Fund)
    May 30 SDDS Template on International Reserves and
    Foreign Currency Liquidity
    May 30 Exchange Fund Abridged Balance Sheet and
    Currency Board Account

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST meets Canadian officials

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui met financial officials in Ottawa on Wednesday and business representatives in Vancouver yesterday, as he continued a five-day visit to Canada.

    Mr Hui met Canadian Deputy Minister of Finance Chris Forbes on Wednesday. They discussed the challenges posed by unilateralism and protectionism, and how Hong Kong and Canada might collaborate to achieve mutual benefits in areas such as the gold market and virtual assets.

    Mr Hui told Mr Forbes that as global economic gravity continues to shift eastwards, Hong Kong has been exploring new growth areas and expanding international co-operation. He said this includes efforts by a working group to promote gold market development.

    In a meeting with Canada’s Superintendent of Financial Institutions Peter Routledge, Mr Hui spoke of Hong Kong’s perseverance in upholding a robust regulatory regime across different financial institutions and financial products.

    Mr Routledge praised Hong Kong for its advanced development in the area of digital assets, stating that it sets an example for other regions.

    Mr Hui then met Senator Woo Yuen-pau at Parliament Hill and brief hum on Hong Kong’s effort in maintaining its status as an international financial centre through various measures.

    He mentioned the recent affirmations of Hong Kong’s credit ratings by Fitch, S&P and Moody’s, adding that these fully demonstrate Hong Kong’s resilience in maintaining stability amid increasing global economic and financial uncertainties.

    During his short stay in Ottawa, Mr Hui also paid a courtesy call to China’s Ambassador to Canada Wang Di.

    Mr Wang said Hong Kong has its own distinctive advantages which can enable it to be a bridgehead in driving closer ties between China and Canada in addition to fostering direct co-operation between Hong Kong and Canada.

    In Vancouver yesterday, Mr Hui met Fraser Institute Board Chair Mark Scott and some other prominent business figures to update them on Hong Kong’s financial development.

    Mr Hui welcomed the think-tank’s ranking of Hong Kong as the world’s freest economies in its Economic Freedom of the World 2024 Annual Report.

    Later, he spoke at a business lunch hosted by the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (Vancouver Chapter), and participated in a fireside chat.

    Mr Hui then met representatives of the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and briefed them on development in areas such as wealth management and digital assets in Hong Kong.

    The day concluded with a business networking reception and seminar organised by Invest Hong Kong (Canada).

    Addressing the audience, Mr Hui highlighted the Government’s dedication to integrate Web3 innovations into the real economy by introducing a licensing regime for fiat-referenced stablecoin issuers, and to foster the development of Web3 and digital assets.

    He also mentioned Hong Kong’s determination to expand the financial value chain to sustain the world-class status of its financial markets. Two forward-looking moves are to build an international gold trading market and create a commodity trading ecosystem in Hong Kong, he said.

    Mr Hui added that, with Canada enjoying a prominent position in the global gold market and the Toronto Stock Exchange being the world’s pre-eminent stock exchange for mining companies, co-operation between Hong Kong and Canada can establish an East-West financial corridor for the world.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

  • France to ban smoking at beaches, parks and outside schools to protect children

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    France will ban smoking on beaches, in parks, outside schools and in other locations to protect children, France’s health and families minister said.

    The ban will come into effect in July, Catherine Vautrin said in an interview with the Ouest France newspaper late on Thursday. It will exempt cafe terraces and will not apply to electronic cigarettes.

    “Where there are children, tobacco must disappear,” Vautrin said. “From July 1, beaches, public parks and gardens, school areas, bus shelters, and sports facilities will be smoke-free throughout France. Smoking will therefore be prohibited there, to protect our children.”

    Vautrin said smoking kills around 200 people every day in France.

    Smoking in France is at historic lows, according to a report published this month by the French Observatory for Drugs and Addictive Trends. It found that just under a quarter of people aged 18-75 smoked daily, the lowest since it began keeping records in the late 1990s.

    The UK announced a similar smoking ban last year.

    (Reuters)

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Japan make substantive progress in talks on Japanese aquatic products

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

    China and Japan held a new round of technical talks in Beijing on Wednesday over the safety of Japanese aquatic products, with the two sides achieving “substantive progress,” according to China’s top customs authority.

    Initiated at Japan’s request, the talks marked the latest step in a series of technical exchanges this year, the General Administration of Customs said Friday. 

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Taishan-based food company sees overseas growth via market adaptation

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

    Xinli Food (Truly Food), a company based in Taishan, southern China’s Guangdong province, is leveraging cultural adaptation, data analysis, and other strategies to expand its presence in international markets. 

    Automated production line at Xinli Food’s manufacturing facility [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

    Specializing in sauces and canned foods for both Chinese and Western cuisine, the company is introducing traditional Taishan products such as shrimp paste to consumers overseas.

    By using big data to analyze market trends and consumer preferences, the company has accelerated product development and improved marketing outcomes. The company has also established teams to monitor international policy changes, ensuring compliance and reducing business risks. A multi-platform content strategy has enhanced its brand visibility and customer engagement abroad. Currently, overseas sales account for 30% of Xinli’s total revenue.

    Shrimp paste produced by Xinli Food [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

    “In different regions, consumer habits and preferences vary significantly,” said Huang Xiuci, manager at Xinli Food. “For markets like Southeast Asia, we have localized product packaging to suit local usage habits, and promoted them through both online content and in-store tasting sessions.”

    Based on consumer feedback, Xinli has shifted from a passive sales approach to a model that incorporates market input into product design. Looking ahead, the company plans to further expand into South America and emerging markets within the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) by making use of Taishan’s overseas Chinese networks.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • India working towards becoming food bank of the world: Shivraj Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India is working towards becoming the “food bank of the world” under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Thursday.

    He was speaking at the launch of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan at the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) in Bhubaneswar.

    The nationwide campaign, launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), will run from May 29 to June 12. As part of the initiative, agricultural scientists will visit villages across over 700 districts to engage with farmers and offer scientific advice aimed at transforming agriculture and securing India’s food future.

    “The farmers of India are not just Annadata (food providers), they are Jeevandata (life providers). Our goal is to empower them to feed not only 145 crore Indians but also export food grains and vegetables across the globe,” said Chouhan. He emphasized that the government is committed to making India self-reliant in agriculture through innovation, technology, and grassroots participation.

    Chouhan highlighted that government schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana have been launched to provide compensation for crops affected by climate change. The central government is also providing an interest subsidy up to 4 per cent on agricultural loans through Kisan Credit Cards.

    The Union Minister will travel across 20 states during the 15-day campaign to mobilize support and engagement. He also urged farmers in Odisha to actively participate in the initiative, noting that over 16,000 agricultural scientists are being connected with farmers as part of the campaign.

    Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed pride that the campaign is being launched from the state.

    Also present at the event were Odisha Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, senior agriculture department officials, and leading agricultural scientists.

    May 30, 2025
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