NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Watercare director appointed

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council has appointed Rukumoana Schaafhausen as director of Watercare Services Limited (Watercare).

    Cr Maurice Williamson chaired the selection panel and welcomes Rukumoana to the Watercare board.

    “Ruku brings a wealth of experience of relevant sectors and will bring an essential Māori perspective to the governance of Watercare. She was the stand-out candidate in a highly impressive field. She will be an exceptional asset to the governance of Watercare Services ensuring that the organisation continues to deliver, and deliver well for Auckland,” says Cr Williamson.

    The appointment was approved by the Performance and Appointments Committee on 29 April 2025. The committee is responsible for all appointments to the boards of council-controlled organisations, in accordance with the council’s Appointment and Remuneration Policy for Board Members and the Local Government Act.

    About Rukumoana Schaafhausen

    Rukumoana Schaafhausen is trained commercial and property solicitor who has more than 20 years of board room experience leading iwi organisations, utilities (energy and water), banking, investments and property development.

    Her current roles include the boards of Contact Energy, Kiwi Group Capital, Alvarium Limited and Tainui Group Holdings.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New trees usher in next stage of Victoria Street’s linear park

    Source: Auckland Council

    The ancient trees of Albert Park watched over the arrival of four newcomers in Victoria Street East last week – between Lorne Street and Albert Park.

    Completion of the greening of this section of Victoria Street is close.

    Four trees were crane-lifted from trucks, taking their positions in new street-side seating areas. The trees – pūriri, pōhutukawa, titoki and rewarewa – are another visual symbol of the transformation Aucklanders are seeing in midtown’s station neighbourhood.

    Auckland Council’s midtown regeneration programme is ensuring the area will be ready when the City Rail Link (CRL) and Te Waihorotiu Station open.

    Widened footpaths, a dedicated cycleway, fewer traffic lanes, new art, new trees and landscaped resting places along the redesigned sections of Victoria Street are seeing the street reflect its te reo Māori name.

    Te Hā Noa is a name gifted by mana whenua. Te Hā is about life’s essence – to breathe – and Noa is about being free in the journey to experience your surroundings.

    Mana whenua also guided the design of the new terraced tree pits, referencing the geology and forms of Tāmaki Makaurau.

    Tree pits are designed to support the city’s stormwater drainage system. Surface rainwater disperses into the pits, where it irrigates the trees and filters water before it flows to the sea. They are also designed to keep the trees safe from heavy equipment and vehicles and allow them to flourish for years to come.

    By the end of May people will see the area finished, with uplighting of trees and almost 600 new plants greening the gardens at street level.

    There are 16 benefits of trees cited in Auckland Council’s Urban Ngahere (Forest) Strategy.

    Here are four:  

    • The cooling effect of trees, as a result of evapo-transpiration, reduces the urban heat island effectand enhances resilience to an increasing number of hot days (>25°C), one of the projected impacts of climate change. In simple terms, it’s a process where a plant cools itself by sweating water vapour through the pores in its leaves, lowering the temperature of the air.

    • Trees reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere through sequestering carbon in new growth. One tonne of carbon stored in wood is equivalent to removing 3.67 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere.

    • Trees improve air quality by removing air pollutants. A 2006 study estimated that Auckland’s urban trees remove 1320 tonnes of particulates, 1230 tonnes of nitrogen dioxide and 1990 tonnes of ozone.

    • Studies have shown that trees intercept around 15% of the rain that falls on their canopy, depending on a tree’s species and architecture.

    In time, Te Hā Noa will form a green link across the city, linking two much-loved city parks – Rangipuke / Albert Park and Waikōkota / Victoria Park.

    Read more about the completion of the first section of Victoria Street – between Elliott Street and Queen Street at OurAuckland.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greens launch Member’s Bill to close loophole allowing animal cruelty in imports

    Source: Green Party

    Today, Green Party MP Steve Abel has added a new Member’s Bill to the biscuit tin to ensure any product sold in New Zealand meets New Zealand’s animal welfare standards, even if it’s produced overseas.

    “We shouldn’t allow on our supermarket shelves what we wouldn’t allow on our farms,” says Green Party Agriculture and Animal Welfare spokesperson, Steve Abel. 

    “This is about fairness for animals and for farmers.

    “We’re proud of our animal welfare laws here in New Zealand, but right now those laws have a glaring loophole.

    “Currently, products which come from animals who have been kept or slaughtered in conditions which would be illegal here, like in sow stalls or battery cages, are still able to be imported and sold in our supermarkets. 

    “New Zealanders don’t want to see our welfare values undermined by a loophole that allows cruelty to enter through the back door. 

    “My Bill will ensure that imported products meet the same basic standards we expect on our own farms. 

    “We can set a global standard that says robust animal welfare doesn’t stop at our borders.

    “New Zealanders have been clear that they don’t want animals to suffer here or overseas. A recent poll showed that 83% of New Zealanders want the Government to act to align import standards with domestic laws.

    “I will be working across the House to turn this Bill into law.

    “If it’s too cruel to produce here, it should be too cruel to sell here,” says Steve Abel.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Eligibility – MPTT

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Consortium eligibility
    For the full eligibility requirements, see the MPTT funding conditions for the relevant year.
    To be eligible to receive MPTT consortium activities funding you must be the lead member of a consortium. An MPTT consortium consists, ideally, of at least one tertiary education organisation (TEO) funded for work-based learning, one TEO funded for provider-based learning (these may be the same TEO), employer representation, and at least one Māori and/or Pasifika entity.
    Consortium activities
    We allocate consortium activities funding based on intended learner numbers, and the capacity and performance of the consortium. Other factors, such as the stage of development of the consortium and the potential for economies of scale are also taken into account.
    Consortium activities that we may agree to fund include:

    governance and project management
    coordinating the contributions of consortium members and other services to the development of learner capabilities
    employability skills training (MPTT employability activities) and licensing (eg, driver licensing) that complement DQ-funded programmes or Micro-credentials
    learner support (activities, equipment or other support that contribute to learner success in addition to the support ordinarily offered by the tertiary provider).

    Fees top-ups & brokerage services eligibility
    For the full eligibility requirements, see the MPTT funding conditions for the relevant year.
    Fees top-ups and brokerage services funding contribute to achievement of the successful outcomes sought from MPTT.
    We may fund:

    a consortium partner organisation for fees top-ups and brokerage services on a consortium’s behalf
    multiple consortium partner organisations for fees top-ups and/or brokerage services, and/or
    a consortium partner organisation for fees top-ups and brokerage services, allowing the consortium to subcontract with its own members, or other TEOs, for delivery of services such as brokerage.

    Fees top-ups
    MPTT funding for fees top-ups ensures consortium partner tertiary education organisations (TEOs) can make their Delivery at Levels 3-7 (non-degree) on the NZQCF and all industry training (DQ3-7) funded programmes of pre-trades training fees-free for MPTT learners.
    TEOs that receive funding for fees top-ups must have an effective assessment process for determining literacy and numeracy needs of learners.
    Additional guidance is available about:

    the importance of literacy and numeracy skills development in learners
    our literacy and numeracy expectations of TEOs
    literacy and numeracy best practice for TEOs
    resources and research findings, and
    the Literacy and Numeracy for Adults Assessment Tool.

    Literacy and Numeracy for Adults Assessment Tool guidelines
    Brokerage services and activities
    Brokerage services funding supports connections between employers, consortia and partner/other TEOs in order to support MPTT learner progression.
    We expect these activities to supplement existing brokerage and facilitation activities carried out by a consortium. A brokerage services funded TEO may pass on its funding to another organisation to carry out the services. 
    The brokerage services specified in the TEO’s funding confirmation documentation must be the brokerage services provided. These services may include:

    providing recruitment support, identifying pre-employment needs of learners, and their employment, training and career pathways 
    tailoring pre-employment trades education provision to the needs and aspirations of MPTT learners, communities and potential employers
    matching MPTT learner talents and aspirations with employer skill requirements and career pathways
    facilitating relationships between MPTT learners, TEOs , potential employers and key industry stakeholders, and
    providing employment transition support for learners.

    Career guidance
    We expect consortium partner organisations to, collectively and individually, support each learner to recognise and develop the skills and competencies they need to manage their career in a trade.
    See Consortia, and Project Kamehameha and Project Lumana’i (research commissioned by Careers New Zealand about design and delivery of career resources for Māori and Pasifika respectively).
    Learner eligibility
    For the full learner eligibility requirements, see the MPTT funding conditions for the relevant year.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Questions over Erica Stanford’s personal email use

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Erica Stanford has been misusing her personal email address to manage sensitive information relating to Budget and visa changes prior to their public release.

    “Documents show the Education Minister has sent sensitive government information to an unprotected email address,” Labour’s education spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime said.

    “We’re talking about serious government decisions that affect peoples’ lives and have millions of taxpayer dollars attached to them. Ministers have a responsibility to keep this information safe.

    “Going off the grid with sensitive information is hanging a welcome sign to threats to our national security.

    “In 2023 the Cabinet Manual was updated, and now specifically states ‘As far as possible, Ministers should not use their personal email account or phone number to conduct ministerial business.’ This goes far beyond that.

    “We have rules for a reason and Erica Stanford isn’t above them. She needs to be upfront about what she is using her personal email for and how much sensitive information has been shared,” Willow-Jean Prime said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 2024 General Insurance Stress Test results published

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    The 2024 General Insurance Stress Test (GIIST) bulletin published today noted insurers’ resilience in managing claims from an extreme seismic event. It also highlighted the need for a coordinated response across the industry and government to manage such shocks and ensure ongoing insurance availability.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Banking – ASB recruiting 80 home ownership specialists to prepare for refixing surge

    Source: ASB

    ASB is on a hiring drive to recruit 80 additional home ownership specialists as it prepares for a surge in home loan applications. 80 percent of New Zealand homeowners are expected to refix their home loan within the next year, according to the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. While most of the 80 full time specialists have now been recruited, there are still some roles being advertised. The specialists will work across the bank’s in-house home ownership team and mortgage adviser-led business.

    With many Kiwi having locked in short-term rates when interest rates were higher, Adam Boyd, Executive General Manager of Personal Banking says ASB is already seeing a change in customer behaviour, with people starting to fix for longer terms. “As a result of falling rates, we expect 55 percent of our home loan customers will have locked in rates under 6 percent by December this year, compared to 40 percent in March 2025.”

    ASB is also simplifying its refinance process so that Kiwi coming to the end of their fixed rate term at another bank can receive a decision on moving to an ASB loan quicker and more easily. For its mortgage adviser-led business, ASB has introduced a system to improve the quality of applications being submitted so they can be processed more quickly.  

    ASB was named Canstar’s 2025 Bank of the Year – Home Loans Award winner. The award recognised that ASB delivers mortgage products that combine ‘the best features with the lowest costs, plus provides great customer service at every stage of the mortgage journey’. ASB also won Canstar’s Outstanding Value Awards in four categories – Home Lender, Investment Home Lender, Fixed Home Lender, and Investment Fixed Home Lender.

    “We are seeing elevated demand for our home loans. By growing our teams and enhancing our refinance process, we’ll be able to turn around applications faster, both for our customers and the mortgage advisers we work with, while continuing to deliver great service,” says Boyd.

    “We continue to offer competitive pricing, having dropped fixed rate mortgages six times this year. Our one-year fixed term rate is currently joint market leading, at 4.99 percent.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Consumer NZ’s annual KiwiSaver survey reveals satisfaction rising but questions remain

    Source: Consumer NZ

    Strong returns and fewer issues helped lift sentiment, even with some investors disengaged, although that may be about to change.

    “Consumer NZ’s People’s Choice award recognises products and services whose customers are highly satisfied,” says Consumer chief executive Jon Duffy.  

    Results from the nationally representative annual KiwiSaver satisfaction survey highlight the strengths and weaknesses of different retirement savings scheme providers.

    “KiwiSaver customer satisfaction has improved noticeably in 2025. The sector’s overall satisfaction rating climbed to 57%, up from 52% in 2024,” says Duffy.

    However, the coming years will test both the trust in and communication from providers, with Trump’s tariffs serving as one example of the immediate pressures contributing to ongoing global economic uncertainty.

    Returns still rule, but interest in ethical investment is growing

    Performance remains the strongest driver of satisfaction in the KiwiSaver space. Good returns are behind low switching rates, but concerns persist in areas such as fee fairness, accessibility and transparency.

    “Ethical investment continues to attract high interest. Many New Zealanders say they care about whether their funds are invested in undesirable sectors, but few know the details of where their money goes.  

    “Many rely on trust in their provider. Around 40–50% believe providers are making genuine efforts to invest ethically, while a similar proportion remains unsure,” says Duffy.

    Top KiwiSaver providers of 2025  

    Customer satisfaction leaders this year were small outfits again, more agile providers, recognised for offering strong investment returns, communication, fair fees and ethical investment options.

    Generate – 80%  

    Milford Funds – 75%  

    Simplicity – 69%  

    People’s Choice standouts

    Generate earned the People’s Choice award this year, for ease of access and the features of its digital platform.  

    Milford Funds extended its winning streak to eight years, thanks to strong communication and customer confidence in investment returns.  

    Simplicity featured for the sixth year in a row, widely praised for fee fairness and ethical focus.

    Bottom of the pack – 2025’s lowest-rated providers

    Larger providers continue to lag, especially in terms of measures like communication, fee satisfaction and keeping customers informed. The biggest gripe tends to be fees.

    ANZ – The largest provider continues to see a decline in satisfaction year on year, with consistently poor performance on transparency and fees.

    Smart – Struggles with engagement and customer support.

    Mercer – Lowest-ranked overall, with concerns about service quality and value for money continuing to dominate feedback.

    The Treasury staff published an analytical note in September 2024, highlighting that as New Zealand’s population ages, life expectancy increases, and fertility rates decline, there is mounting pressure to ensure retirement savings can support individuals throughout their extended retirement years. This highlights the growing importance of KiwiSaver for the financial wellbeing of New Zealanders, both now and in the future.

    For these reasons, it is important that consumers engage with their investments, rather than staying passively in default schemes, to improve their returns and build greater financial security for their retirement.

    About Consumer

    Consumer NZ is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to championing and empowering consumers in Aotearoa. Consumer NZ has a reputation for being fair, impartial and providing comprehensive consumer information and advice.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business and Tech – Fusion5 repositions itself in market as transformation partner

    Source: FUSION5

    6 May – Auckland, New Zealand – Following several significant senior appointments and acquisitions of related technology businesses over the past 18 months, Australasian systems integrator Fusion5 has formally announced its transition from a business applications company to a full-service transformation partner.
    Formed in 2003, Fusion5 initially filled the gap between the big, strategically focused IT consulting firms and smaller, hands-on, agile applications software specialists. From a running start as a highly awarded digital partner to world-leading business application providers (including CRM, ERP, and HR) across Microsoft, Oracle, Workday and IBM, the company went on to add advanced technical and integration capabilities.
    “To keep pace with the intensifying complexity of IT ecosystems, Fusion5 acquired complementary ‘best-in-class’ IT practices to expand our in-house digital capability,” says Sven Martin, CEO – Fusion5 Australia. “In particular, bringing IntegrationWorks into the fold in 2024 introduced significant skills, expertise, and referenceability – deepening our proficiency in systems integration.”
    The company has also invested heavily in its culture and capability; adding strategic services such as consulting and advisory, a robust client-success program and managed services to ensure clients access the governance and innovation necessary for success.
    However, despite providing its customers with a seamless approach to digital transformation, recent customer research identified a perception gap.
    “Our evolution had out-paced market understanding,” says Martin. “Fusion5 goes beyond the role of typical systems integrators, IT consultants, business solutions implementors, or even managed services providers – to stitch all of that digital capability (and more) together as a cross-functional transformation partner. This convergence of solutions, services, and capabilities enables us to utilise AI as a strategic lever for transformation.
    “We now offer our customers one-partner simplicity and the benefit of a Trans-Tasman team that’s geared up, both strategically and practically. In short, we can help our customers ‘go beyond’ what they ever expected to achieve with technology alone.”
    Kristy Brown, CEO – Fusion5 New Zealand, adds: “Today’s CIO grapples with the ongoing tension of harnessing digital innovation while ensuring measurable IT performance. In other words – keeping the lights on while lighting up innovation. They must champion digital agility and prepare the business to leverage new technologies while optimising existing ones. Fusion5 offers a unique blend of business acumen and digital capability to bridge the vision-to-performance gap many business leaders face.”
    To mark its evolution, Fusion5 has undertaken a major brand overhaul to better realign market perception and reflect its ‘go beyond’ transformation partner status.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Investments – NZ SUPER FUND NAMED WORLD’S BEST OVER PAST 20 YEARS

    Source: New Zealand Super Fund

    Average annual returns of 10.03 percent after costs over the past 20 years make the New Zealand Superannuation Fund the world’s best-performing sovereign wealth fund, according to international sovereign wealth fund experts GlobalSWF. 

    GlobalSWF’s annual rankings compare the performance of 13 sovereign wealth funds and 37 pension funds from 18 countries across five continents. The NZ Super Fund’s returns for the 20 years to 30 June 2024 were well ahead of the average returns for both sovereign wealth funds (6.4 percent) and pension funds (6.8 percent).

    The NZ Super Fund was also the top performing sovereign wealth fund during the past decade, with an average annualised return of 10.33 percent after costs.

    NZ Super Fund CEO Jo Townsend said that over the past 20 years the Fund had significantly outperformed long-term performance expectations.

    “In part, that reflects how well global equities, which presently make up about 60 percent of the Fund’s assets, have performed during that time. In addition, our active investment strategies have also outperformed both our Reference Portfolio benchmark and our long-term performance expectations,” Ms Townsend said.

    Ms Townsend said the Guardians’ active investment strategies were designed to capitalise on its competitive advantages as an institutional investor, particularly its long investment horizon, operational independence, and clear and effective governance structure.

    Ms Townsend said maintaining long-term, growth-oriented investment strategies through multiple market ups and downs had been central to the success of the NZ Super Fund.

    The NZ Super Fund has $8 billion invested in New Zealand, including investments in forestry, agriculture and horticulture, and numerous listed and unlisted entities.

    In the past year, the Fund had expanded its rural land portfolio, increased its investment in locally managed funds that provide growth capital to New Zealand businesses, and continued its involvement in various land development initiatives that will provide platforms for housing and social infrastructure.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Changes to improve pay equity process

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is amending the Equal Pay Act [the Act] to make the process of raising and resolving pay equity claims more robust, workable and sustainable, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden announced today. 
    Pay equity is achieved when women and men are paid the same for work that is different but of equal value: for example, care and support workers and mental health assistants perform work that is different but is of equal value. 
    “It is clear the current Act is not working as intended, and amendments made by the previous government in 2020 have created issues. Claims have been able to progress without strong evidence of undervaluation and there have been very broad claims where it is difficult to tell whether differences in pay are due to sex-based discrimination or other factors.  
    “The Government is committed to addressing these issues. The new and improved pay equity system will provide greater confidence that genuine pay equity issues will be correctly identified and addressed. 
    “New Zealand’s pay equity regime is an outlier internationally. The Act allows employees and unions to bargain a pay equity settlement with multiple employers. In most countries we compare ourselves to, people raise pay equity claims against their own employer only, or there are legal requirements on employers to proactively take steps to achieve pay equity,” says Ms van Velden.
    Pay equity claims have been concentrated in the public sector, with a recent increase in the number of claims in the publicly funded sector. Costs to the Crown have become significant, with the costs of all settlements to date totalling $1.78 billion per year.
    “These changes will mean the pay equity claim process is workable and sustainable. There are often significant costs involved with pay equity settlements which can involve large workforces [e.g. around 94,000 people for the teachers claim] and we need to ensure the process to raise and resolve claims is robust.  
    “The changes I am proposing will significantly reduce costs to the Crown,” says Ms van Velden.
    There will be a better framework and guidance for parties to use to assess whether there is sex-based undervaluation. These changes include: 

    Raising the threshold of “predominantly performed by female employees” from 60 percent to 70 percent and requiring that this has been the case for at least 10 consecutive years.
    Ensuring there are reasonable grounds to believe the work is historically and currently undervalued, including a requirement for evidence.
    Further clarity and guidance on the use of comparators – work performed by men that is different to the claimant’s work but has similar skills, responsibilities, levels of experience, or working conditions to the claimant’s work.
    Employers being able to meet their pay equity obligations in a way that is sustainable for their business – for example through phasing of settlements. 

    The changes will discontinue current pay equity claims, but new claims can be raised under the amended Act if they meet the new requirements. Review clauses in existing settlements will become unenforceable. Settled claims can be re-raised 10 years after settlement, if the claim meets the new requirements. 
    The changes are reflected in a Bill introduced today and going through Parliament under urgency, which will amend the Equal Pay Act and take effect the day after Royal assent. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Southwestern Motorway

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are at the scene of a serious single-vehicle crash on the Southwestern Motorway, northbound, between the Onehunga Harbour Rd on-ramp and the Queenstown Rd off-ramp.

    Traffic management is in place. 

    Motorists should avoid the area or expect delays. 

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Delays on the Auckland network

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Motorists should expect delays on parts of the Auckland motorway network this morning.

    Emergency services are responding to a two-truck collision on the Northern Motorway, near the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

    Southbound traffic is being impacted this morning, with some lanes closed while the scene is cleared.

    Fortunately no injuries have been reported.

    Crews will work as quickly as possible to clear the scene, however motorists should expect delays on their commute this morning.

    This is in addition to an earlier serious crash this morning further south, on the South-Western Motorway near Onehunga.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 2 blocked, Waiotahe

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 2 is blocked at Waiotahe, west of Ōpōtiki, due to a serious crash.

    It happened at the intersection with Baird Road about 5:35am, and involved two vehicles.

    Indications are that one person is seriously injured.

    Diversions are in place and motorists are asked to delay travel if possible.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mautohe Cathedral Cove closed for conifer removal

    Source: Police investigating after shots fired at Hastings house

    Date:  05 May 2025

    DOC Coromandel Senior Ranger Matt Flynn says the conifers are invasive weeds that threaten to permanently alter the unique landscapes only found in New Zealand.

    Conifers were introduced to New Zealand in the 1880s. Since then they have spread across the country from forests, shelterbelts and erosion plantings.

    Matt says there are five large wilding conifers dotted across Mautohe Cathedral Cove to be removed, and if left unchecked they are likely to spread the invasive species further across the reserve.

    “Removing the wilding conifers supports our weed management and biodiversity restoration goals – enabling native flora and fauna to regenerate at Mautohe Cathedral Cove,” he says.

    Contract arborists will be conducting the work, which will focus on areas above the rock archway and near the beach, on 8 and 9 May weather permitting.

    The closure of the track is to ensure public safety, and visitors should stay out of the reserve while the arborists carry out their work.

    People are discouraged from landing on the beach when the conifer removal is underway, and any visitors will be guided by contractors to a safe area away from the worksite.

    The walking track is scheduled to reopen on Saturday, 10 May 2025.

    Invasive species, over-exploitation, habitat loss, pollution and climate change are putting immense pressure on our ecosystems.

    What we do makes a difference. We have proven in many parts of the country that when we remove or manage the threats, restore habitats or modify how we use or interact with nature, it comes back.

    Tracks to Mautohe Cathedral Cove were closed in February 2023 due to extensive damage caused by Cyclone Garbrielle. DOC repaired the tracks through the second half of 2024, and they reopened to visitors in December 2024.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Announces Resumption of Flight Service Between Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam from June 1

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 5:43PM by PIB Hyderabad

    Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, announced today the resumption of the morning flight service between Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam, set to begin on June 1, 2025. This route will significantly enhance connectivity within Andhra Pradesh, linking Vijayawada, with the state’s financial hub, Visakhapatnam.

    The newly revised flight schedule is designed to provide greater convenience for frequent flyers. The morning flight, operated by IndiGo Airlines, will depart from Vijayawada at 7:15 AM and reach Visakhapatnam by 8:25 AM. The return flight will depart Visakhapatnam at 8:45 AM and arrive in Vijayawada at 9:50 AM.

    Speaking on the development, Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, said “Regional connectivity is a cornerstone of our vision for inclusive growth and ease of travel. The reinstatement of this crucial flight link between Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam will significantly benefit passengers, boost economic engagement between the two cities, and support the broader development goals of Andhra Pradesh.”

     

    This initiative underscores the government’s focus on improving regional connectivity, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, as part of the broader vision to enhance transportation infrastructure across India.

    *****

    (Release ID: 2127085) Visitor Counter : 22

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police acknowledge Race Unity Speech Awards winner

    Source: New Zealand Police

    The winner of the 2025 Race Unity Speech Awards is Jordyn Joy Pillay, from Ormiston Senior College, Auckland.

    Jordyn’s speech highlighted that diversity must be more than a moment – it must be a movement.

    “I am the ocean I cannot be read I am calm and soothing and so accepting. Come to me …I’ll bring you peace. I see no difference. I’m home to fins and feathers, skin and scales …home to many, I freely give. I welcome you warmly. Abide in me.”

    The awards were held at the Ngā Kete Wānanga Marae, Manukau Institute of Technology Ōtara Campus over the weekend and featured students from several schools across New Zealand.

    This year’s theme – ‘Te Moana Nui o te Kanorau – The Great Ocean of Diversity’ – highlights our need for the natural harmony that we see in the outdoors to be replicated in our society. The metaphor also talks to our strength being in our differences.

    Police Commissioner Richard Chambers is delighted to be the first Commissioner to attend the awards.

    “Supporting initiatives like this represents our commitment to building trust and confidence with the diverse communities we serve,” Commissioner Chambers says.

    Police Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers, the chief judge of the awards, stressed the importance of providing a platform for rangatahi to discuss and share their thoughts on important societal issues.

    “I am astonished by the quality of the speeches from our young people over the weekend,” she says.

    “As Police, we are proud to be supporting a platform for our young people to voice their aspirations and solutions.”

    Superintendent Rakesh Naidoo MNZM – National Partnerships Manager Ethnic, acknowledged the history of the award the partnership.

    “As Iwi and Community Partnerships, we are honoured to have been supporters of these awards for nearly two decades. These awards offer us a meaningful platform to be highly visible amongst our youth and positively engage with them on issues that are important to them and their communities. Each year, we are inspired by the voices of our young people – who are leading us now and into the future,” he says.

    About the Awards

    The Race Unity Speech Awards were established by the New Zealand Bahá’í Community in memory of race relations advocate and Bahá’í Faith member Hedi Moani. Organised by the New Zealand Bahá’í Community, a religious community dedicated to promoting the oneness of humanity at various levels, the Speech Awards is supported by the New Zealand Police, the Human Rights Commission, Foundation North, Manukau Institute of Technology, Ministry for Ethnic Communities, Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori, Speech New Zealand, Hedi Moani Charitable Trust, and Studio Marque.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu gives in-principle approval for Greenfield airports in Kota, Rajasthan and Puri in Odisha

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 9:26PM by PIB Delhi

    Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Civil Aviation is committed to expandand strengthen air connectivity across the nation. Taking another step in this direction, Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu hasgranted in-principle approval for the establishment of a Greenfield airport in Kota, Rajasthan and Puri in Odishaon May 05, 2025.

    Kota Airport, a long-awaited development is a result of consistent efforts by Shri Om Birla, Speaker of Lok Sabha and MP from Kota-Bundi, who has been actively pursuing the realization of an airport for Kota. His continued engagement with the Ministry of Civil Aviation has been one of the driving forces to expediting this approval. 

    The proposed airport will not only serve Kota city, known as a major educational and industrial hub, but will also cater to the growing population and economic activity in the Hadoti region. With its establishment, Kota will be able to be major destinations within India and internationally.

    This decision marks a major milestone in the infrastructure development of Kota, Rajasthan and the Government’s commitment to making air travel accessible to every citizen.

    Puri, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India and home to Lord Jagannath, attracts millions of devotees and tourists from across the country and the world. The decision to establish an airport in Puri will provide a major boost to religious tourism, regional development, and overall connectivity in the region.

    This airport will be able to enhance the direct connectivity between Puri and major metropolitan cities in India.This decision marks a important milestone for Puri and Odisha and is in line with the Government’s commitment to strengthening last-mile air connectivity and making air travel accessible to all.

    ***

    Beena Yadav/Divyanshu Kumar

    (Release ID: 2127174) Visitor Counter : 53

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC, India takes suo motu cognizance of the reported death of three workers and injuries to three others in an explosion at a propellant mixing unit of an explosives manufacturing plant in Yadadri Bhongir district of Telangana

    Source: Government of India

    NHRC, India takes suo motu cognizance of the reported death of three workers and injuries to three others in an explosion at a propellant mixing unit of an explosives manufacturing plant in Yadadri Bhongir district of Telangana

    Issues notices to the Chief Secretary and DGP, Telangana, calling for a detailed report within two weeks

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 6:03PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report that three workers died and three others were injured in an explosion that occurred at a propellant mixing unit of an explosives manufacturing plant at Katepalli village in Yadadri Bhongir district of Telangana. Reportedly, the incident happened on 29th April, 2025.

    The Commission has observed that the contents of the news report, if true, raise serious issues of violation of the human rights of the victims. Therefore, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary, Government of Telangana and the Director General of Police, Telangana, calling for a detailed report in the matter within two weeks. The report is expected to include the health status of the injured persons.

    According to the media report, carried on 29th April, 2025, the explosion caused the complete collapse of the mixing unit structure of the plant. Reportedly, the company has been manufacturing explosives for both commercial and leading organisations, including DRDO.

    ***

    NSK

     

    (Release ID: 2127107) Visitor Counter : 21

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Culture Takes Steps to Halt Auction of Piprahwa Relics by Sotheby’s Hong Kong

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Culture Takes Steps to Halt Auction of Piprahwa Relics by Sotheby’s Hong Kong

    Sotheby’s responds to the legal notice with the assurance that full attention is given to this matter

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 8:35PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, has taken swift and comprehensive measures to prevent the auction of the sacred Piprahwa Relics by Sotheby’s Hong Kong, underscoring India’s commitment to protecting its cultural and religious heritage. These relics, excavated from the Piprahwa Stupa—widely recognized as the ancient city of Kapilavastu, the birthplace of Lord Buddha—hold immense historical and spiritual significance.

    The Piprahwa Relics, which include bone fragments, soapstone and crystal caskets, a sandstone coffer, and offerings such as gold ornaments and gemstones, were excavated by William Claxton Peppé in 1898. An inscription in Brahmi script on one of the caskets confirms these as relics of the Buddha, deposited by the Sakya clan. The majority of these relics were transferred to the Indian Museum, Kolkata, in 1899 and are classified as ‘AA’ antiquities under Indian law, prohibiting their removal or sale. While a portion of the bone relics was gifted to the King of Siam, a selection retained by Peppé’s descendants has now been listed for auction.

    Upon learning of the proposed auction, the Ministry of Culture initiated the following actions:

    1. The Ministry collected detailed background information on the auction and issued a legal notice to Sotheby’s Hong Kong to stop the auction immediately. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) also requested the Consulate General of Hong Kong to take up the matter with authorities there demanding the immediate cessation of the auction.
    2. During a bilateral meeting on May 2, 2025, Culture Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat raised the issue with Rt Hon Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, United Kingdom. The Minister emphasized the cultural and religious significance of the relics and urged immediate action to halt the auction and facilitate their repatriation.
    3. On May 5, 2025, the Secretary of Culture convened a high-level review meeting to outline further steps. The Ministry of External Affairs has been requested to engage with embassies in the United Kingdom and Hong Kong through its Europe West and East Asia Divisions to ensure the auction is stopped.
    4. The Financial Investigation Unit (FIU) has been asked to coordinate with its counterpart in Hong Kong to highlight the illegality of the auction and ensure compliance with international laws.
    5. Ivy Wong, Ivy Wong, Associate General Counsel Sotheby’s in her reply to the legal notice assured that our full attention is given to this matter.

    The Ministry of Culture remains steadfast in its efforts to protect India’s cultural heritage and ensure the repatriation of the Piprahwa Relics. We call upon Sotheby’s Hong Kong to immediately withdraw the relics from auction and cooperate with Indian authorities to return these sacred artifacts to their rightful place.

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2127159) Visitor Counter : 31

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DRDO & Indian Navy conduct combat firing (with reduced explosive) of indigenous Multi-Influence Ground Mine

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 8:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Navy have successfully undertaken combat firing (with reduced explosive) of the indigenously designed and developed Multi-Influence Ground Mine (MIGM). The system is an advanced underwater naval mine developed by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories – High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, Pune and Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Chandigarh.

    MIGM is designed to enhance the Indian Navy’s capabilities against modern stealth ships and submarines. Bharat Dynamics Limited, Visakhapatnam and Apollo Microsystems Limited, Hyderabad are the production partners for the system.

    Complimenting DRDO, Indian Navy and the Industry, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh stated that the system will further enhance undersea warfare capabilities of the Indian Navy.

    Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat said, with this validation trial, the system is now ready for induction into the Indian Navy.

    *****

    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2127155) Visitor Counter : 266

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Shri Satish Chandra Dubey Visits Eastern Coalfields Limited

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 8:15PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey visited Eastern Coalfields Limited today. The Minister was welcomed by Shri Satish Jha, CMD, ECL and other senior officials of ECL. Shri Dubey chaired a comprehensive review meeting, assessing ECL’s performance in production, dispatch, safety and other operations. The Minister emphasized the importance of environmental conservation, directing ECL to further integrate eco-friendly practices and sustainable mining technologies into its operations. Further, he offered key directives and strategic guidance to strengthen ECL’s operational efficiency and future growth, reinforcing the ministry’s commitment to energy security. The Minister also paid floral tribute at the Martyrs’ Corner, commemorating the brave souls of ECL.

    Shri Dubey visited the Sonepur Bazari Area of ECL, accompanied by Shri. Satish Jha, CMD, ECL, Functional Directors and senior officials of ECL. Minister inaugurated the Bhatmura Rehabilitation Site, marking a significant step towards R&R and community development. He also reviewed ongoing activities at the site.

    The Minister also visited the CHP-SILO of Sonepur Bazari Area. He engaged in conversation with the field staff and officials, emphasizing the importance of performance efficiency and strict adherence to safety protocols while ensuring speedy despatch of coal. A plantation drive programme was also held at the CHP-SILO site.

    The Minister also had a brief discussion over the mine plan of Sonepur Bazari Project with CMD, ECL, Functional Directors and Area General Manager, focusing upon optimum capacity utilization of equipment, improvement in production and dispatch along with proper safety measures to be considered during production. He further reaffirmed Ministry’s commitment to energy security by providing important strategic directions to improve ECL’s operational effectiveness and future expansion.

    During his visit, the minister also felicitated employees of Sonepur Bazari Mine, recognizing their exemplary performance. He expressed confidence in Team ECL and their demonstrated commitment to achieving future production targets.

    ****

    Shuhaib T

    (Release ID: 2127153) Visitor Counter : 150

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sarbananda Sonowal hails Bravery, Discipline, Cultural Legacy of Moran Community at 57th All Moran Students’ Union Foundation Day

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 7:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Shri Sarbananda Sonowal lauded the courage, discipline and cultural richness of the Moran community, saying their contributions are not only significant to Assam but also admired across India.

    Speaking at the 57th Foundation Day celebrations of the All Moran Students’ Union at Doomdooma, today, Shri Sonowal highlighted the BJP-led government’s continued efforts to preserve and promote heritage, art and culture of the Moran community while ensuring their holistic development.

    “The valour, commitment, and fearlessness of the Moran community are recognised nationwide. With strong spiritual values and cultural traditions, the community has played a vital role in strengthening the social fabric of Assam,” the Union Minister said.

    As part of the celebrations, Shri Sonowal inaugurated two major traditional cultural events— ‘Gos Tolor Bihu’ and ‘Kheri’, the latter performed by over 1000 participants.  Shri Sonowal praised the All Moran Students’ Union for its tireless, uncompromising work over nearly six decades in addressing core community issues and contributing to the broader Assamese identity.  “The youth of the Moran community possess immense talent, skill and resolve. We must equip them with modern thinking, scientific knowledge and technological tools so that they can thrive in today’s competitive world,” Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said.

    The Union Minister further said, “The contributions of the Moran community to Assam’s public life are invaluable. They have consistently played a key role in the process of building the greater Assamese identity. Their unmatched sacrifices, bravery, patriotism, and work culture symbolise pride for our nation. Since coming to power, the BJP government has prioritised the protection, preservation, and promotion of the Moran heritage and cultural legacy while working toward the community’s all-round development. Their contributions have received due recognition and respect. In today’s competitive world, we must equip our new generation with modern perspectives, scientific thinking, and technological proficiency. The youth of the Moran community have remarkable skill, talent, expertise, and determination. It is our collective responsibility to recognise these qualities and work continuously for their advancement, enabling the community to shine brighter.”

    Shri Sonowal also paid homage to historic figures Bodoucha and the warrior Veer Raghav Moran, describing them as ideals of Assamese public life. He also mentioned the spiritual significance of the ‘Dharma Huchari’ and ‘Gos Tolor Bihu’, noting that this great community has upheld its rich traditions and heritage for centuries. He expressed hope that in the coming days, the Moran community will bring greater glory to Assam and India through their industrious spirit. Emphasising the ecological importance of ‘Gos Tolor Bihu’, he said the celebration underscores the community’s long-standing commitment to nature conservation and biodiversity.

    The Dibrugarh Lok Sabha MP called on the Moran community to continue playing an active role in building a self-reliant and developed India, and he commended the student union’s leadership in empowering youth and strengthening society.

    Prominent attendees included MLAs Bolin Chetia and Ponakan Baruah; CEM of Moran Autonomous Council, Arunjyoti Moran; Chairman, Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC), Rituparna Baruah; Chairman, Assam State Housing Board (ASHB), Pulak Gohain; Assam Olympic Association (AOA), General Secretary, Lakshya Konwar; and Tinsukia Municipal Board, Chairman, Pulak Chetia, along with several other community leaders and dignitaries.

    ***

    GDH/HR

    (Release ID: 2127146) Visitor Counter : 28

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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Privacy notice

    Source:

    Last updated 4 February 2021
    Last updated 4 February 2021

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    A privacy notice is an outward-facing document, a TEO usually publishes on a website, to show the public how you manage personal information.
    A privacy notice is an outward-facing document, a TEO usually publishes on a website, to show the public how you manage personal information.

    It is especially necessary for people who will use your services, ie, students, to understand what you do with their information.
    Privacy notices contain similar information to consent forms. The difference is that a privacy notice relates to your whole organisation and can be referred back to students. A consent form is specific to one use of the information.
    A student may sign several consent forms during their study, but you only need one privacy notice.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri B.L. Verma presides over Special Programme focused on ‘NAMASTE Yojana’, to honour Sanitation Workers, in Budaun today

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 7:29PM by PIB Delhi

    A special programme focused on the ‘National Action Plan for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE), through the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, was organized on May 5, 2025, at the DIET Auditorium in Budaun, Uttar Pradesh. Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri B. L. Verma, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and honored sanitation workers.

    The aim of the NAMASTE programme is to socially and economically empower the workers engaged in sanitation work, enabling them to have safe, dignified, and sustainable livelihoods.

    Addressing the gathering on the occasion the Minister said that this is not just a government scheme, but a resolution to bring real change in the lives of the people in society who work the hardest. He appreciated the social organizations and citizens for participating in this public-sensitive programme and becoming a part of this social change.

    Key Highlights of the Programme were:

    • Distribution of PPE kits and Ayushman cards to Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs).

    • Distribution of Sewing Machines to beneficiaries.

    • Teachers and staff of DIET created attractive Rangoli in honor of the sanitation workers.

    So far, 73,768 sewer and septic tank workers (SSWs) have been profiled across the country. Out of these, 45,871 have been provided with PPE kits, 354 with safety equipment, and 27,103 beneficiaries have received Ayushman cards. In Budaun and Shahjahanpur districts, the profiling of a total of 324 SSWs has been completed and provided with PPE kits and Ayushman cards during the program. Sewing machines for self-employment were also distributed to some beneficiaries from Shahjahanpur.

    *****

    VM

    (Release ID: 2127139) Visitor Counter : 43

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary, DFS reviews performance of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and progress on amalgamation plan

    Source: Government of India

    Secretary, DFS reviews performance of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and progress on amalgamation plan

    Shri. M. Nagaraju urges RRBs to leverage its lending in Agriculture and allied activities, MSME and Government sponsored schemes

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 7:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Sh. M. Nagaraju, Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, reviewed performance of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and progress on amalgamation plan in Mumbai.

    Chairman, NABARD and officials of DFS, Sponsor banks, SIDBI, Reserve Bank of India and Chairpersons of all RRBs were also present.

     

    With the implementation of One State-One RRB, RRBs have been urged to leverage its lending in Agriculture and allied activities, MSME and Government sponsored schemes. RRBs have grown in their reach to more than 22,000 branches, covering 700 districts of the country and more than 92% of its branches are in rural/semi urban areas. RRBs have recorded consolidated net profit of ₹7,148 crore in FY 2024-25. Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) has reached a new low of 5.3%, lowest in a decade period. Secretary, DFS urged the rural banks to continue to focus on their amalgamation process and long-term sustainability.

     

    Secretary, DFS asked Sponsor Banks to guide RRBs in their amalgamation process and provide level playing field for long term sustainability. Sponsor banks should continue to facilitate technology upgradation in RRBs and to complete integration process adhering to the strict timelines of 30-09-2025. He also suggested Sponsor Banks and RRBs to also address HR related issues emerging in the process.

     He asked sponsor banks and RRBs to recognize the challenges that lie ahead. Sponsor banks in consultation with RRBs to draft a roadmap for RRBs for next 5 years.

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    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2127138) Visitor Counter : 60

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s first mortgage backed Pass Through Certificates listed on the National Stock Exchange

    Source: Government of India

    India’s first mortgage backed Pass Through Certificates listed on the National Stock Exchange

    Secretary, DFS stresses the importance of housing sector and the housing finance sector for the growth of the economy

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 7:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri M. Nagaraju, Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance listed India’s first Mortgage backed Pass Through Certificates (PTC) structured by RMBS Development Company Limited on the National stock Exchange on 05 May 2025.  Listing was done by Shri M. Nagaraju by ringing the bell. The listing ceremony was attended by several Heads of Banks, Housing Finance Companies and other financial institutions.

    These PTCs are backed by pool of housing loans originated by LIC Housing Finance Limited. The issue of Rs. 1,000 crores (1,00,000 PTCs of Face value of Rs. 1,00,000/-). was fully subscribed.

    This is the first issue of a PTC where the coupon was discovered on the “Electronic Book Provider (EBP)“ platform of the National Stock Exchange. The final maturity of the PTC issued will be nearly twenty years and the coupon is 7.26% per annum. The rating of the Instrument is AAA(SO) by CRISIL and CARE Ratings. These PTCs are issued in demat form and are transferable. As the PTC is listed on a stock exchange, they can be traded in the secondary market.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Nagaraju stressed the importance of housing sector and the housing finance sector for the growth of our economy. He stated that housing finance has many forward and backward linkages with many other industries including the infrastructure. With a country of such vast population, housing needs have to be addressed at the earliest to achieve overall economic development.

    He stated that securitization can act an integrating factor for housing finance market and the debt market. Reiterating the importance of RMBS, he stated that it could act as a catalyst for the growth of the housing finance sector.

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    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2127137) Visitor Counter : 85

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bun Scrambling Competition concludes successfully (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Bun Scrambling Competition concludes successfully  
         The event attracted around 1 650 spectators, who experienced the thrilling atmosphere of the competition. They witnessed 12 finalists scrambling up the bun tower to gather as many buns as they could within a three-minute time limit to vie for the championships.
     
         Apart from the individual race, there was also an invitation relay in which three teams from Shenzhen, Zhuhai and Macao competed against seven local teams from Cheung Chau.
     
         The results are as follows:
     

    Individual contest

    WomenWinner of “Queen of Queens”: Kung Tsz-shan (three-time champion in the women’s division since 2016)

    Winner of “Full Pockets of Lucky Buns”: Yip Kin-man (Number of buns gathered: 170)
     

    Invitation relayShenzhen Mountaineering and Outdoor Sports AssociationZhuhai Climbing Association TeamThe Petrel Athletic Association Limited Team AIssued at HKT 2:08

    NNNN

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah reviews implementation of three New Criminal Laws in New Delhi with Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena and Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah reviews implementation of three New Criminal Laws in New Delhi with Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena and Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta

    Implementation of New Criminal Laws brought under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will enhance efficiency and accountability of Police at the grassroots level

    There should be continuous monitoring of the process of filing charge-sheets within 60 and 90 Days, with strict adherence to timelines

    In heinous crime cases, efforts should be made to increase conviction rates by at least 20 per cent

    e-Summons to be issued directly from courts, with copies sent to local police stations

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 6:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today chaired a review meeting in New Delhi with Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena and Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta to review the implementation of three new criminal laws in the national capital. The meeting reviewed the implementation and current status of various new provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution, and forensics. The meeting was attended by Union Home Secretary, Chief Secretary of the National Capital Territory, Commissioner of Delhi Police, Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), Director of the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB), and senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Delhi Government.

    In his address, Shri Amit Shah stated that the implementation of the three new criminal laws, introduced under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, will enhance the efficiency and accountability of the police at the grassroots level. Home Minister issued directives to ensure accountability of officers in the implementation of these new criminal laws. Shri Shah emphasized that the process of filing charge-sheets within 60 and 90 days must be continuously monitored, with strict adherence to their timelines. He further directed that efforts be made to increase the conviction rate in cases of heinous crimes by at least 20 per cent.

    Union Home Minister stated that e-Summons should be issued directly from courts, with copies sent to local police stations. He also called for expediting the appointment process in the Directorate of Prosecution and ensuring that decisions regarding appeals in any case are made by the Directorate of Prosecution itself.

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    VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2127124) Visitor Counter : 135

    Read this release in: Hindi

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Stakeholder Consultation in the Medicinal Plant Sector to promote medicinal plants

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 05 MAY 2025 9:42PM by PIB Delhi

    A Stakeholder Consultation under the Co-Chairmanship of Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, MoA&FW and Secretary, Ministry of AYUSH was held on Monday at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi to promote the cultivation and use of medicinal plants across the country, observing participation from Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of AYUSH, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, National Plant Medicinal Board (NPMB), State Horticulture Missions (SHMs), ICAR, State Medicinal Plant Boards, progressive farmers and leading private players from Medicinal Plant industry.

    In his opening remarks, Shri. Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, highlighted that there is a scope to increase domestic production of medicinal plants as inter-state trade and export of medicinal plants. He highlighted the need for better convergence between Ministry of AYUSH and Agriculture departments and collaboration with State Medicinal Plant Boards, to promote medicinal plants at national level. He also mentioned that important medicinal plants have been included under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) scheme, DA&FW. He stressed that there is a need for a mission-mode program for medicinal plant cultivation, identifying good practices of cultivation, efficient techniques, etc., which will help in the upliftment of the sector. 

    Shri Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of AYUSH highlighted that there is a huge possibility of growth in the sector. The AYUSH manufacturing sector has grown by 8 times in the last 10 years and has vast export potential. The sector has enormous economic opportunities, and especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for AYUSH products including medicinal plants has grown immensely.

    Key objectives of the session majorly focussed on:

    • Exploring avenues for developing region-specific medicinal plant clusters.
    • Facilitating partnerships between farmers and industry players for assured procurement and end-to-end value chain development.
    • Discussing the establishment of dedicated mandis and marketing platforms to ensure fair prices for farmers.
    • Promoting research, training, and extension services to build capacity among stakeholders.

    During the meeting, various participants and stakeholders suggested identifying crop-specific areas for the establishment of clusters dedicated to medicinal plants. These clusters would focus on area expansion, production, industry partnerships, farmer training and marketing through setting up specialised mandis for these crops ensuring remunerative prices to the farmers.

    In his concluding remarks, Shri Priya Ranjan, Joint Secretary (Horticulture), emphasized the need to identify policy interventions and financial incentives to encourage farmers to take up the cultivation of medicinal plants.

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    PSF/ SRK/AR

    (Release ID: 2127181) Visitor Counter : 38

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