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Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KEYNOTE SPEECH by His Excellency Fiame Naomi Mata’afa Prime Minister of Samoa at the “Ceremony for the Official Commencement of the Construction of the Atele Storage Facility” – Atele Horticulture Centre, Nu’u,

    Source: Government of Samoa

    Prime Minister of Samoa Hon. Fiame Naomi Mata’afa KEYNOTE REMARKS at the “Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Atele Packhouse”

    (Atele Horticulture Centre, Nu’u, Tuesday 18th February 2025@10 am)

    Reverend Iamafana Fa’a’u’uga,

    Honourable Ministers of Cabinet,

    Representatives of our Development partners,

    Representatives of the World Bank, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD),

    Distinguished Guests, Community Leaders, our dedicated farmers, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all this morning, and it is my honour to address this significant occasion of the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Atele Packhouse; a project that represents progress, resilience, and opportunity for Samoa’s Agriculture sector.

    This project, valued at $4.5 million Samoan Tala, is a critical investment under the Samoa Agriculture and Fisheries Productivity and Marketing Project (SAFPROM). It is a testament to our government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the Agricultural sector, which is one of the lifelines of our economy and the very backbone of our rural communities.

    Ladies and gentlemen, the journey to this day has not been without its challenges. Since the launch of SAFPROM in March 2020, we have faced both pre-pandemic and post-pandemic obstacles that tested our resilience. The disruptions brought about by COVID-19 affected global supply chains, market access, and the livelihoods of many of our farmers and fishers. Yet, despite these challenges, the project has persevered, reaching over 3,000 farming households and communities across Samoa. This is a remarkable achievement that reflects the dedication of our people, the strength of our partnerships, and our collective vision for a more productive and sustainable Agricultural sector.

    The core objective of SAFPROM, is to enhance the productivity and market access of our farmers and fishers, by improving value chains, promoting climate-smart agriculture, and strengthening the institutions that support our food systems. This aligns perfectly with our national vision of ensuring food security, economic prosperity, and sustainable development for all Samoans.

    Today, we mark the beginning of the construction of a packhouse facility that will revolutionize the way we handle and market our agricultural produce. The Atele Packhouse will be a game-changer in post-harvest processing, quality control, and distribution. It will provide our farmers with the infrastructure they need to meet stringent market standards, reduce post-harvest losses, and ultimately increase their incomes. With a construction timeline of approximately seven months, this facility will soon stand as a symbol of progress, one that will open doors to greater economic opportunities and expand Samoa’s potential as a competitive player in the regional and global agricultural markets.

    Our Agriculture sector today faces increasing demands for quality and consistency in both local and export markets. Consumers, whether they are in Samoa or abroad, expect high standards in food safety, packaging, and traceability. The functions of this packhouse will directly address these demands. It will serve as a centralized hub for cleaning, sorting, processing, and packaging of our fresh produce, ensuring that our farmers can supply premium-quality products, that meet the expectations of buyers and consumers. More importantly, this facility will also support our efforts to increase agricultural exports, positioning Samoa to access high-value markets with confidence.

    Beyond its economic impact, the Atele Packhouse represents a broader vision of sustainability. By enhancing efficiency in post-harvest management, we are reducing food waste and optimizing the use of resources. This aligns with our commitment to building a resilient Agriculture sector, that is adaptive to climate change and supportive of long-term environmental sustainability.

    I take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to our development partners – the World Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) – for their invaluable support and collaboration in making this project a reality. Your commitment to strengthening Samoa’s Agriculture sector has been instrumental in empowering our farmers, improving our food systems, and fostering economic growth. We deeply appreciate your partnership and look forward to continuing this journey together in the future.

    I also acknowledge the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Ministry of Finance, the dedicated farmers, and all stakeholders who have contributed their expertise and efforts to this project. Your hard work and commitment ensure that we continue to make meaningful progress in transforming our agriculture and fisheries industries.

    As we break ground today, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing our Agriculture related development initiatives and efforts, and let us work together to ensure that this packhouse fulfills its purpose of supporting sustainable economic opportunities for our farmers and exporters. With determination and unity, I have no doubt that this project will leave a lasting beneficial impact on our Agriculture sector and the livelihoods of our people.

    May this groundbreaking event, be the foundation of a brighter future for Samoa’s farmers and exporters, and all those who depend on this vital industry.

    Thank you and may God bless Samoa.

    Photo by the Government of Samoa (Leota Marc Membrere)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM highlights the grace that Maa Jagdambe brings as a new dawn of happiness in the lives of devotees

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 8:28AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today highlighted the grace that Maa Jagdambe brings as a new dawn of happiness in the lives of devotees. He also shared a prayer by Smt. Lata Mangeshkar.

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    MJPS/SR

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Remunerative Price of Perishable Agriculture Produces

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:52PM by PIB Delhi

    Agriculture marketing is a State subject. Domestic prices of perishable agriculture produces are mainly influenced by factors such as demand and supply, trade policies, effective taxes and duties, etc. The Central Government takes necessary measures as and when required to balance the demand and supply scenario of agriculture and horticulture produces in the domestic market and ensure remunerative prices to the farmers through appropriate policy measures and market intervention scheme.

    To safeguard farmers from market volatilities, the Government takes various measures through different schemes and programmes. These include Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for perishable horticultural and agricultural commodities; Integrated Scheme for Agriculture Marketing (ISAM) to promote- creation of scientific storage capacity; National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) online trading platform for better price discovery through competitive online bidding etc. Nationwide information network system for reporting and dissemination of market price information on agriculture commodity is provided through Agmarknet web portal. Under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), Govt. provides a medium-long term loan facility for investment in viable projects for post-harvest market infrastructure including warehousing facility and community farming assets through interest subvention and financial support.

    To provide remunerative price to the farmers, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare implements Market Intervention Scheme (MIS), a component under Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA), for procurement of agricultural and horticultural commodities which are perishable in nature and are not covered under the Price Support Scheme (PSS). The objective of intervention is to protect the growers of these commodities from making distress sale in the event of a bumper crop during the peak arrival period when the prices tend to fall below economic levels and the cost of production. The scheme is implemented at the request of a State/UT government, which is ready to bear 50 percent of the loss (25 percent in case of North-Eastern States), if any, incurred on its implementation.

    Government has introduced a new component of Price Differential Payment (PDP) under Market intervention scheme (MIS) from 2024-25 season for direct payment of the price difference between the Market Intervention Price (MIP) and the selling price to the farmers of perishable crops. States/UTs have an option to choose either to do physical procurement of the crop or to make the differential payment between the MIP & Sale Price to the farmers. Further, from 2024-25 season, Government added another component under Market intervention scheme for reimbursing the Storage and Transportation cost of TOP crops (Tomato, Onion and Potato) to central nodal agencies for transporting them from the producing state to consuming states in the interest of the farmers.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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    PSF/AR/3857

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: All India Workshop of Trainers for the Comprehensive Modular Survey on Education

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:52PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India, organized the All India Workshop of Trainers (AIWOT) for the Comprehensive Modular Survey (CMS) on Education, as part of the NSS 80th Round, at Marriott Hotel, Jaipur, on April 3, 2025. The NSO will conduct the CMS (Education) from April  to June 2025.

    Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India, inaugurated the workshop and, in his address, underscored the significance of the education survey. He emphasized the crucial role of surveys in evidence- based policymaking and stressed the need for high-quality, timely data. Dr. Garg urged participants to uphold rigorous standards in data collection and processing and highlighted the importance of proactive engagement with state authorities to ensure smooth survey implementation and address other key issues under the Ministry’s purview.

    The event was attended by Ms. Geeta Singh Rathore, Director General (NSS), along with Additional Director Generals and Deputy Director Generals from various NSS divisions. Field functionaries from all regional and sub-regional offices of the Field Operations Division (FOD) also participated, along with representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Population Council Institute, and the State Directorates of Economics & Statistics from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura.

    Live demonstration on the art of canvassing the schedule and hands-on training on CAPI was imparted to the participants.

    CMS (Education) aims to collect critical data on education-related indicators, with a special focus on household expenditure on education.

    The survey will cover the entire Indian Union, except for remote villages in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands that are difficult to access.

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    Samrat/Allen

    (Release ID: 2118773) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Promotion of New Technologies in Agriculture

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:51PM by PIB Delhi

    The Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization’ (SMAM), one of the Centrally Sponsored components of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) is implemented through the State Governments.  Under SMAM, financial assistance is provided to the farmers for purchase of various agricultural machines and equipments including the post-harvest and processing technologies on individual ownership basis. Financial assistance is also provided for establishment of Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) and Village Level Farm Machinery Banks (FMBs) in order to provide machines and equipments to the farmers on rental basis as per their requirements. Financial assistance under SMAM is also provided for demonstration of kisan drones on farmers’ fields, purchase of drones by the farmers on individual ownership basis and establishment of Custom Hiring Centres of Kisan drones for providing services of drones to farmers for agriculture purpose.

    The Government has approved Central Sector Scheme ‘NAMO DRONE DIDI’ for providing 15,000 Drones to the Women Self Help Groups (SHGs), during the period of 3 years (2023-24 to 2025-26) with a view to provide sustainable business and livelihood support to them. Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) have distributed 1094 drones to drone didis of SHGs in 2023-24 using their internal resources. Out of these 1094 drone distributed to drone didis, 500 drones have been distributed under the Namo Drone Didi Scheme. The remaining 14500 drones under the scheme has been targeted to be distributed by the end of financial year 2025-26.

    The Government has approved the Digital Agriculture Mission in September 2024 with an outlay of Rs. 2817 Crore. The Mission seeks to enable a robust digital agriculture ecosystem in the country for driving innovative farmer-centric digital solutions and making available timely and reliable crop-related information to all the farmers in the country. The Mission envisages the creation of Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture such as Agristack, Krishi Decision Support System, Comprehensive Soil Fertility & Profile Map and other IT initiatives undertaken by Central/State Governments. ‘Kisan e-Mitra’ an Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered chatbot has been developed to assist farmers with responses to queries about the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme

    The Institutes under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) are conducting research on drone spraying systems and droplet deposition characteristics with the objectives of enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of pesticide and liquid fertilizer applications. An AI enabled mobile device has been developed for real time identification of abiotic stress in field crops, which assist crop breeding and precision crop input management. The institutes have also developed different precision farming technologies such as Smart sprayer for pomegranate young orchards, Automatic Spraying System for Polyhouse, Lab based robotic transplanter for plug-type vegetable seedlings, Unmanned multi-purpose track-type vehicle, Autonomous weeder for wide spaced field crops, Robotic harvester for poly-house cultivated tomatoes, Image based automatic hand held diseases identification device for soybean by application of deep learning, Image based variable-rate nitrogen applicator, Controller based feed dispensing system for poultry, Water Stress Indices using Spectral Reflectance and Thermal Imaging in Field Crops, Deep placement fertilizer applicator as an attachment to rice transplanter etc.

    Soil Health & Fertility Scheme is implemented by the Government since 2014-2015, wherein Soil Health Cards (SHCs) are issued to farmers to improve the health of the soil. SHCs encourage judicious use of fertilizer, secondary micronutrients along with organic manures & bio-fertilizers. Soil samples are processed through standard procedures and analyzed for 12 parameters viz. pH, electrical conductivity, Organic Carbon, available Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sulphur, and micronutrients (Zinc, Coper, Iron, Manganese & Boron). SHCs provide information on nutrient status of soil and recommendations on appropriate dosage & type of fertilizers for improving soil health and its fertility. Since 2014-15 and as on 31 March 2025, 24.90 Crore SHCs have been generated across the country. Under the scheme, 1068 Static Soil Testing Laboratories, 163 Mobile Soil Testing Laboratories, 6376 Mini Soil Testing Laboratories and 665 Village Level Soil Testing Laboratories have been established across the country. To educate farmers, around 7.0 lakh demonstrations, 93781 farmer’s training programmes and 7425 farmer’s mela have been organized across the country. In addition, 70002 Krishi Sakhis are trained to support farmers in understanding SHCs.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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    PSF/AR/3854

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Parliament passes the Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Parliament passes the Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025

    Another significant reform under the leadership of Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:03PM by PIB Delhi

    The Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025, introduced by Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, was passed in Lok Sabha on 03.04.2025, following its earlier acceptance in the Rajya Sabha. With both Houses having cleared the legislation, this marks the second major aviation reform passed under the leadership of Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu. The bill aims to align India’s aircraft leasing and financing ecosystem with global standards and marks a critical step in deepening investor confidence in India’s rapidly growing aviation market.

    The Bill builds on the framework of the Cape Town Convention of 2001, which aimed to simplify and standardize international leasing agreements. India formally adopted this convention in 2008, but gaps in legal enforcement led to higher leasing costs—typically 8 to 10 percent higher than other nations. With this bill, India seeks to plug those gaps, providing legal certainty to aircraft financiers and reducing costs for Indian carriers.

    Shri Ram Mohan Naidu underlined the urgency behind the legislation and stated “There was a vision behind this leap in civil aviation. There was a mission to fulfill that vision. And to make that mission possible, there was the guidance of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The kind of growth we are seeing today was made possible because of his leadership.”

     

    He illustrated this growth with concrete figures. “For almost 65 years—from Independence to 2014—the total number of passengers flying annually in India was 10 crore 38 lakh. In just the next 10 years, that number has more than doubled to 22 crore 81 lakh in 2024,” he said. “Similarly, the number of airports in India increased from 74 in 2014 to 159 in 2024, with two more ready to be launched soon,” he highlighted.

    The Minister also spotlighted the increase in the number of aircraft, growing from 340 in 2014 to over 840 by 2024. “These figures show that civil aviation in India is not just growing—it’s booming. No other country has seen this level of aviation expansion in such a short period,” he stated.

    The Bill is expected to further ease leasing processes, make India a more attractive destination for aviation investments, and improve the country’s compliance scores under the Cape Town Convention. These changes are essential for reducing airline costs and encouraging new entrants into the sector.

    The discussion also touched upon broader issues in the civil aviation sector, such as the high cost of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) which accounts for nearly 45% of an airline’s operational costs. The Minister expressed concern over the variation in ATF tax across states and called for more states to follow the example of those who have reduced their rates. “Reducing these taxes will boost regional connectivity and lower costs for passengers,” he added. Looking to the future, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has set ambitious targets for sustainability and capacity building.

    With plans to generate 2.5 crore liters of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) by 2025 and transition over 100 airports to renewable energy, India is making a strong push toward greener aviation. The sector also faces a growing demand for trained pilots—estimated at 30,000 to 34,000 over the next 10 to 15 years. “We are working on increasing the number of Flight Training Organizations (FTOs) and issuing more commercial pilot licenses annually to meet this demand,” the Minister said.

    In conclusion, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu affirmed the government’s long-term vision: “Civil aviation in India is not just about flying planes. It’s about connecting people, boosting economies, and creating opportunities. And we are committed to making India a global leader in aviation.”

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    Manish Gautam/Divyanshu Kumar

    (Release ID: 2118797) Visitor Counter : 35

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025: An overview of the Act vs Bill

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Minority Affairs

    The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025: An overview of the Act vs Bill

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 aims to update the Waqf Act, 1995 to fix issues in the management of Waqf properties. The proposed changes focus on:

    • Overcoming the shortcomings of the previous act and enhancing the efficiency of Waqf boards
    • Updating the definitions of waqf
    • Improving the registration process
    • Increasing the role of technology in managing Waqf records​.

    The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025 seeks to remove the outdated Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923, which is no longer effective for modern India. The repeal will:

    • Ensure uniform rules for managing Waqf properties under the Waqf Act, 1995.
    • Improve transparency and accountability in Waqf management.
    • Eliminate confusion and legal contradictions caused by the old law.

    Major issues:

    1. Irrevocability of Waqf Properties
      • The principle “once a waqf, always a waqf” has led to disputes, such as claims over islands in Bet Dwarka, which have been deemed perplexing by courts as well.
    2. Legal Disputes & Poor Management: The Waqf Act, 1995, and its 2013 amendment have not been effective. Some problems include:
    • Illegal occupation of Waqf land
    • Mismanagement and ownership disputes
    • Delays in property registration and surveys
    • Large-scale litigation cases and complaints to the Ministry
    1. No Judicial Oversight
      • Decisions by Waqf Tribunals cannot be challenged in higher courts.
      • This reduces transparency and accountability in Waqf management.
    2. Incomplete Survey of Waqf Properties
      • The Survey Commissioner’s work has been poor, leading to delays.
      • In states like Gujarat and Uttarakhand, surveys have not even started.
      • In Uttar Pradesh, a survey ordered in 2014 is still pending.
      • Lack of expertise and poor coordination with the Revenue Department have slowed the registration process.
    3. Misuse of Waqf Laws
      • Some State Waqf Boards have misused their powers, leading to community tensions.
      • Section 40 of the Waqf Act has been widely misused to declare private properties as Waqf properties, causing legal battles and unrest.
      • As per information out of 30 States/UTs, data was given only by 8 States where 515 properties have been declared as Waqf under Section 40. 
    4. Constitutional Validity of the Waqf Act
      • The Waqf Act applies only to one religion, while no similar law exists for others.
      • A PIL (Public Interest Litigation) has been filed in the Delhi High Court, questioning whether the Waqf Act is constitutional. The Delhi High Court has asked the Central Government to respond to this issue.

    Key Features of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025

    Feature

    Waqf Act, 1995

    Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025

    Name of the Act

    Waqf Act, 1995

    Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act, 2025.

    Formation of Waqf

    Waqf could be formed by declaration, user, or endowment (waqf-alal-aulad).
    • Removes waqf by user and allows formation only through declaration or endowment.
    • Donors must be practicing Muslims for at least five years and must own the property.
    • Waqf-alal-aulad cannot deny inheritance rights to female heirs.

    Government Property as Waqf

    No clear provision.

    Any government property identified as Waqf will cease to be Waqf. Ownership disputes will be resolved by the Collector, who will submit a report to the state government.

    Power to Determine Waqf Property

    The Waqf Board previously had the power to inquire and determine waqf property.

     

    Provision removed.

    Survey of Waqf

    Assigned survey commissioners and additional commissioners to conduct Waqf surveys.

     

    Empowers Collectors to conduct surveys and mandates pending surveys to be conducted as per state revenue laws.

     

    Central Waqf Council Composition
    • Constituted the Central Waqf Council to advise the central and state governments and Waqf Boards.
    • All members of the Central Waqf Council had to be Muslims, including at least two women members.

     
    • Two members must be non-Muslims.
    • MPs, former judges, and eminent persons appointed to the Council as per the Act need not be Muslims.
    • The following members must be Muslims: Representatives of Muslim organisations, Scholars in Islamic law, Chairpersons of Waqf Boards
    • Of the Muslim members, two members must be women.

    Waqf Boards Composition
    • Provides for election of up to two members each from electoral colleges of Muslim: (i) MPs, (ii) MLAs and MLCs, and (iii) Bar Council members, from the state to the Board.
    • At least two members must be women

    The Bill empowers the state government to nominate one person from each background to the Board. They need not be Muslims. It adds that the Board must have:

    • Two non-Muslim members
    • At least one member each from Shias, Sunnis, and Backward classes of Muslims
    • One member each from Bohra and Agakhani communities (if there is Waqf in the state)
    • Two Muslim members must be women.

    Tribunal Composition

    Required state-level Tribunals for Waqf disputes, led by a judge (Class-1, District, Sessions, or Civil Judge), and included:

    • A state officer (Additional District Magistrate rank)
    • A Muslim law expert

    The amendment removes the Muslim law expert and instead includes:

    • A current or former District Court judge as chairman
    • A current or former joint secretary to the state government

     

    Appeal on Tribunal Orders

    Decision of the Tribunal are final and appeals against its decisions in Courts are prohibited.

    Only High Courts could intervene under special circumstances

     

    The Bill omits provisions deeming finality to Tribunal’s decisions.

    Allows appeals to the High Court within 90 days

     

    Powers of Central Government

    State governments could audit Waqf accounts at any time.

     
    • The Bill empowers the central government to make rules regarding registration, publication of accounts of waqf and publication of proceedings of Waqf Boards.
    • The Bill empowers the central government to get these audited by the CAG (Comptroller and Auditor General) or a designated officer.

    Separate Waqf Boards for Sects

    Separate Waqf Boards for Sunni and Shia sects if Shia waqf constitute more than 15% of all waqf properties or waqf income in the state.

     

    Separate Waqf boards allowed for Bohra and Agakhani sects, along with Shia and Sunni sects.

     

    Inclusion of non-Muslim members in the Waqf Board and Central Waqf Council

    Conclusion:

    The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introduces significant reforms aimed at enhancing the governance, transparency, and efficiency of waqf property management in India. By addressing long-standing issues such as litigation and the lack of judicial oversight, the Bill seeks to create a more structured and accountable framework. Key changes include redefining the formation of waqf, improving the survey and registration process, empowering government oversight, ensuring inclusivity by incorporating non-Muslim members and women into waqf-related bodies. These provisions mark a crucial step toward modernizing Waqf property management in India.

    Click here to download PDF

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    Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kritika Rane

    (Release ID: 2118799)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Measures taken by the Government for detection and prevention of Cancer

    Source: Government of India

    Measures taken by the Government for detection and prevention of Cancer

    770 District NCD Clinics, 233 Cardiac Care Units, 372 district day care centres, and 6,410 NCD clinics have established at community health centres under National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD)

    National Health Mission has launched comprehensive initiative for screening and management of common NCDs, including cancer, through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs

    Under ‘Strengthening of Tertiary Cancer Care Facilities Scheme’, 9 state cancer institutes and 20 tertiary centres have been established; new facilities approved at all new 22 AIIMS

    Under PM-JAY, over 68 lakh cancer treatments worth over ₹13,000 crore have been undertaken, with 75.81% treatments availed in rural areas; targeted therapies for cancer care have seen over 4.5 lakh treatments worth over ₹985 crore, with 76.32% treatment access by rural beneficiaries

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:00PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, offers both technical and financial support to States and Union Territories through the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) as part of the National Health Mission (NHM). Under this program, a total of 770 District NCD Clinics, 233 Cardiac Care Units, 372 district day care centres, and 6,410 NCD clinics at community health centres have been established across the country.

    In addition to these facilities, a population-based initiative for screening, management and prevention of common NCDs including cancer have been rolled out as a part of comprehensive Primary Health Care in the country under National Health Mission (NHM) through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. Screening of these common NCDs including oral, breast and cervical cancer is an integral part of 12 package of service delivery including rural and underserved area.

    The Government has implemented the Strengthening of Tertiary Cancer Care Facilities Scheme, resulting in establishment of 19 State Cancer Institutes and 20 Tertiary Cancer Care Centers across various regions. Additionally, cancer treatment facilities have been approved in all 22 new AIIMS, equipped with diagnostic, medical, and surgical capabilities. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) at Jhajjar, featuring 1,460 patient care beds and advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities, along with the second campus of the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute in Kolkata, which has 460 beds, have been set up to provide super-specialty care.

    Complementing these efforts, the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) offers ₹5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization to approximately 55 crore beneficiaries, corresponding to 12.37 crore families. Recently, the scheme extended health coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of income. The latest national master of the Health Benefit Package (HBP) under AB PM-JAY includes treatment for 1,961 procedures across 27 specialties, including cancer care.

    Under PMJAY, more than 68 lakh cancer treatments worth over ₹13,000 crore have been undertaken, with 75.81% of these treatments availed by beneficiaries from rural areas. Furthermore, targeted therapies for cancer care have seen over 4.5 lakh treatments worth over ₹985 crore, with 76.32% of these treatments accessed by rural beneficiaries under PM-JAY.

    As per the announcement of Union Budget 2025-26, Government plans to set up Day Care Cancer Centres (DCCCs) in consultation with States/Union Territories in district hospitals in the next 3 years, out of which 200 centres are proposed to be set up in 2025-26.

    A comprehensive gap analysis has been undertaken to assess the availability of cancer care infrastructure, medical personnels, and essential equipment in district hospitals. Based on the findings, Union Health Ministry, in consultation with State Governments, plans to establish DCCCs in districts with a high cancer burden and limited access to cancer care services. The selection of these districts will ensure robust referral linkages with State Cancer Institutes (SCIs) and Tertiary Cancer Care Centers (TCCCs) to provide a seamless continuum of care.

    The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav stated this in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Update on National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP)

    Source: Government of India

    Update on National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP)

    As on 1st April 2025, 36 States/ UTs have set up 53 Tele MANAS Cells; 24×7 tele-mental health services are available in 20 languages based on languages opted by States

    More than 20,05,000 calls have been handled on the helpline number

    Over Rs. 230 crore have been allocated for NTMHP in last three years

    A comprehensive mobile platform, Tele MANAS Mobile Application was launched on World Mental Health Day i.e. 10th October, 2024 for providing support for mental health issues

    A dedicated Tele-MANAS Cell has been established at the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune to extend tele-mental health assistance and support to all Armed Forces service personnel and their dependents

    Mental health services have been added in the package of services under Comprehensive Primary Health Care provided at more than 1.75 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs

    District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) is implemented under the National Mental Health Programme in 767 districts of the country to detect, manage and treat mental illness at District Hospitals

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:58PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India launched a “National Tele Mental Health Programme” (NTMHP) on 10th October, 2022, that functions as the digital arm of the District Mental Health Programme to provide universal access to equitable, accessible, affordable and quality mental health care through 24×7 tele-mental health counselling services. For this, a toll-free number (14416) has been set up across the country.

    Specific objectives of the Programme are:

    • To exponentially scale up the reach of mental health services to anybody who reaches out, across India, any time, by setting up a 24×7 tele-mental health facility in each of the States and UTs of the country.
    • To implement a full-fledged mental health service network that, in addition to counselling, provides integrated medical and psychosocial interventions.
    • To extend services to vulnerable groups of the population and difficult to reach populations.

    As on 1st April 2025, 36 States/ UTs have set up 53 Tele MANAS Cells. Tele-MANAS services are available in 20 languages based on language opted by States. More than 20,05,000 calls have been handled on the helpline number.

    The Government has launched Tele MANAS Mobile Application on World Mental Health Day i.e. 10th October, 2024. Tele-MANAS Mobile Application is a comprehensive mobile platform that has been developed to provide support for mental health issues ranging from well-being to mental disorders.

    Over Rs. 230 crore have been allocated by the government for NTMHP in last three years.

    The Government has established a dedicated Tele-MANAS Cell at the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune to extend tele-mental health assistance and support to all Armed Forces service personnel and their dependents, further enhancing the mental health care services available to them.     

    The Government is also taking steps to integrate mental healthcare services at primary healthcare level. The Government has upgraded more than 1.75 lakh Sub Health Centres (SHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. Mental health services have been added in the package of services under Comprehensive Primary Health Care provided at these Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.

    The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) is implemented under the National Mental Health Programme in 767 districts of the country to detect, manage and treat mental illness at District Hospitals. Facilities are also made available under DMHP at the Community Health Centre (CHC) and Primary Health Centre (PHC) levels and include outpatient services, assessment, counselling/ psycho-social interventions, continuing care and support to persons with severe mental disorders, drugs, outreach services, ambulance services etc.

    The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav stated this in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Measures taken by the government to improve institutional delivery among tribal women

    Source: Government of India

    Measures taken by the government to improve institutional delivery among tribal women

    Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) entitles every pregnant woman to free delivery, including caesarean section, in public health institutions along with the provision of free transport, diagnostics, medicines, blood and diet

    Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) ensures quality antenatal care for pregnant women with fixed monthly checkups and extended support for high-risk pregnancies

    Birth Waiting Homes (BWH) have been established in remote and tribal areas promoting institutional delivery with improved access to healthcare facilities

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:57PM by PIB Delhi

    As per the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-21) India report, the institutional delivery of the country, including tribal women, is 88.6%. Under National Health Mission (NHM), the Government of India has undertaken various steps to improve the institutional delivery across all States and Union Territories, including tribal areas. These include:

    • Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) is a demand promotion and conditional cash transfer scheme for promoting institutional delivery. 
    • Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) entitles every pregnant woman to free delivery, including caesarean section, in public health institutions along with the provision of free transport, diagnostics, medicines, blood, other consumables and diet.
    • Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) provides pregnant women a fixed day, free of cost assured and quality antenatal checkup by an obstetrician/Specialist/Medical Officer on the 9th day of every month.
    • Extended PMSMA strategy was launched to ensure quality antenatal checkup (ANC) to pregnant women, especially to high-risk pregnancy (HRP) women, and individual HRP tracking until a safe delivery is achieved through financial incentivization for the identified high-risk pregnant women and accompanying ASHA for extra three visits over and above the PMSMA visit.
    • Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan (SUMAN) provides assured, dignified, respectful and quality healthcare at no cost and zero tolerance for denial of services for every woman and newborn visiting public health facilities to end all preventable maternal and newborn deaths.
    • Birth Waiting Homes (BWH) are established in remote and tribal areas to promote institutional delivery and improve access to healthcare facilities.
    • Monthly Village Health, Sanitation and Nutrition Day (VHSND) is an outreach activity at Anganwadi centers for provision of maternal and child care including nutrition in convergence with the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD).
    • Outreach camps are provisioned to improve the reach of health care services, especially in tribal and hard-to-reach areas. This platform is used to increase awareness for the Maternal and Child health services and community mobilization as well as to track high-risk pregnancies.

    The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel stated this in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Steps taken by the Government for prevention and management of Thalassemia

    Source: Government of India

    Steps taken by the Government for prevention and management of Thalassemia

    Under National Health Mission (NHM), support is provided to States/UTs to strengthen their healthcare system including support for prevention and management of Thalassemia

    As on 26th March 2025, a total of 15,87,903 individuals screened for Thalassemia; 50,462 individuals identified as carriers of Thalassemia

    To assist the States/UTs for management of Haemoglobinopathies including Thalassemia, Comprehensive Guidelines on Prevention and Control of Hemoglobinopathies in India- Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Disease and other variant Hemoglobins, 2016 has been shared

    Union Health Ministry has implemented Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana (TBSY), in association with Coal India limited (CIL) under which financial assistance up to Rs.10 lakh is provided to eligible patients for Bone Marrow transplants in 17 empanelled hospitals spread across the country

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:56PM by PIB Delhi

    Under National Health Mission (NHM), support is provided to States/UTs to strengthen their healthcare system including support for prevention and management of Thalassemia at public healthcare facilities, provision of Blood Bank facilities, Day Care Centre, Medicines, Lab services, IEC activities and training of HR etc. based on the proposals submitted by the States/UTs in their Programme Implementation Plans.

    As on 26th March 2025, as per data updated by States on National Portal, out of 15,87,903 individuals screened for Thalassemia, a total of 5,037 have been identified as diseased and 50,462 as carriers of Thalassemia.

    Comprehensive guidelines on Prevention and Control of Hemoglobinopathies in India- Thalassemia & Sickle cell Disease and other variant Hemoglobins (2016) had been shared to assist the States/UTs for management of Haemoglobinopathies including Thalassemia. The guidelines detail the strategies for management of Thalassemia disease including Thalassemia major (Blood transfusion therapy with packed red blood cell, iron chelation for iron overload, monitoring and management of complication and psychological support etc.) and non-transfusion dependent Thalassemia (NTDT) etc.

    Union Health Ministry is implementing a scheme namely Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana (TBSY), in association with Coal India limited (CIL), wherein financial assistance up to Rs.10 lakh is provided to eligible patients for Bone Marrow transplants (BMT) from CIL Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds. This scheme provides for BMT in 17 empanelled hospitals spread across the country.

    The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel stated this in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Euro area quarterly balance of payments and international investment position: fourth quarter of 2024

    Source: European Central Bank

    4 April 2025

    • Current account surplus at €426 billion (2.8% of euro area GDP) in 2024, after a €243 billion surplus (1.7% of GDP) a year earlier.
    • Geographical counterparts: largest bilateral current account surpluses vis-à-vis United Kingdom (€197 billion) and Switzerland (€76 billion) and largest deficit vis-à-vis China (€105 billion).
    • International investment position showed net assets of €1.66 trillion (10.9% of euro area GDP) at end of 2024.
    • Bilateral current account vis-à-vis the United States: surplus of €3 billion (0.0% of euro area GDP) in 2024, following a deficit of €30 billion (0.2% of GDP) in 2023. For more details see dedicated section on economic and financial linkages between the euro area and the United States.

    Current account

    The current account of the euro area recorded a surplus of €426 billion (2.8% of euro area GDP) in 2024, following a €243 billion surplus (1.7% of GDP) a year earlier (Table 1). This development was driven by larger surpluses for goods (from €264 billion to €372 billion), services (from €127 billion to €169 billion) and primary income (from €20 billion to €54 billion). The deficit for secondary income increased moderately from €167 billion to €168 billion.

    The estimates on goods trade broken down by product group show that in 2024 the increase in the goods surplus was mainly due to a reduction in the deficit for energy products (from €314 billion to €260 billion). In addition, the surpluses for chemical products and machinery and manufactured products increased (from €244 billion to €268 billion and from 283 billion to €300 billion, respectively).

    The larger surplus for services in 2024 was mainly due to widening surpluses for telecommunication, computer and information (from €169 billion to €203 billion) and travel (from €52 billion to €61 billion), and a lower deficit for other business services (from €60 billion to €28 billion). These developments were partly offset by a widening deficit for charges for the use of intellectual property (from €100 billion to €126 billion).

    In 2024, the increase in the primary income surplus was mainly due to larger surpluses in direct investment (from €72 billion to €104 billion), portfolio debt (from €59 billion to €79 billion), and other primary income (from €3 billion to €15 billion), which were partly offset by a larger deficit in portfolio equity (from €163 billion to €194 billion).

    Table 1

    Current account of the euro area

    (EUR billions, unless otherwise indicated; transactions during the period; non-working day and non-seasonally adjusted)

    Source: ECB.
    Notes: “Equity” comprises equity and investment fund shares. Goods by product group is an estimated breakdown using a method based on statistics on international trade in goods. Discrepancies between totals and their components may arise from rounding.

    Data for the current account of the euro area

    Data on the geographical counterparts of the euro area current account (Chart 1) show that in 2024, the euro area recorded its largest bilateral surpluses vis-à-vis the United Kingdom (€197 billion, down from €220 billion a year earlier) and Switzerland (€76 billion, up from €65 billion). The euro area also recorded surpluses vis-à-vis other emerging countries (€155 billion, up from €135 billion a year earlier) and other advanced countries (€114 billion, up from €80 billion). The largest bilateral deficit was recorded vis-à-vis China (€105 billion, down from €109 billion a year earlier) and a deficit was also recorded vis-à-vis the residual group of other countries (€96 billion, down from €142 billion).

    The most significant changes in the geographical components of the current account in 2024 relative to 2023 were as follows: the goods surpluses increased vis-à-vis the United States (from €179 billion to €213 billion) and vis-à-vis other advanced countries (from €27 billion to €50 billion), while the goods deficit vis-à-vis China increased from €131 billion to €141 billion. In services, the deficit vis-à-vis the United States increased (from €124 billion to €156 billion), while the balance vis-à-vis offshore centres shifted from a deficit (€8 billion) to a surplus (€16 billion). In primary income, the balance vis-à-vis the United Kingdom shifted from a surplus (€31 billion) to a deficit (€4 billion) while a smaller deficit was recorded vis-à-vis the United States (from €84 billion to €52 billion). The deficit in secondary income vis-à-vis the EU Member States and EU institutions outside the euro area decreased slightly (from €76 billion to €73 billion).

    Chart 1

    Geographical breakdown of the euro area current account balance

    (four-quarter moving sums in EUR billions; non-seasonally adjusted)

    Source: ECB.
    Note: “EU non-EA” comprises the non-euro area EU Member States and those EU institutions and bodies that are considered for statistical purposes as being outside the euro area, such as the European Commission and the European Investment Bank. “Other advanced” includes Australia, Canada, Japan, Norway and South Korea. “Other emerging” includes Argentina, Brazil, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Türkiye. “Other countries” includes all countries and country groups not shown in the chart, as well as unallocated transactions.

    Data for the geographical breakdown of the euro area current account

    International investment position

    At the end of 2024, the international investment position of the euro area recorded net assets of €1.66 trillion vis-à-vis the rest of the world (10.9 % of euro area GDP), up from €1.25 trillion in the previous quarter (Chart 2 and Table 2).

    Chart 2

    Net international investment position of the euro area

    (net amounts outstanding at the end of the period as a percentage of four-quarter moving sums of GDP)

    Source: ECB.

    The €407 billion increase in net assets was mainly driven by larger net assets in portfolio debt (up from €1.27 trillion to €1.42 trillion), direct investment (up from €2.54 trillion to €2.66 trillion) and reserve assets (up from €1.32 trillion to €1.39 trillion).

    Table 2

    International investment position of the euro area

    (EUR billions, unless otherwise indicated; amounts outstanding at the end of the period, flows during the period; non-working day and non-seasonally adjusted)

    Source: ECB.
    Notes: “Equity” comprises equity and investment fund shares. Net financial derivatives are reported under assets. “Other volume changes” mainly reflect reclassifications and data enhancements. Discrepancies between totals and their components may arise from rounding.

    Note: “Other volume changes” mainly reflect reclassifications and data enhancements. 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: SEACOR Marine and Proceanic Earn NOIA Safety in Seas Awards

    Source: National Ocean Industries Association – NOIA

    Headline: SEACOR Marine and Proceanic Earn NOIA Safety in Seas Awards

    SEACOR Marine and Proceanic Earn NOIA Safety in Seas AwardsSEACOR Marine wins the Culture of Safety Award, Proceanic earns the Safety Practice Award
    Washington, D.C., – The National Ocean Industries Association is pleased to announce SEACOR Marine and Proceanic are winners of the 2025 NOIA Safety in Seas Award Competition. SEACOR Marine is the Culture of Safety winner while Proceanic won the Safety Practice award.
    The Culture of Safety Award honors overall organizational immersion in and commitment to safety, which has resulted in remarkable, measurable, and sustained safety performance over a prolonged period of time. The Safety Practice Award recognizes specific technologies, approaches, methods, or projects with direct and demonstrable impacts on improving safety.
    NOIA President Erik Milito congratulated SEACOR Marine and Proceanic saying, “The Safety in Seas awards spotlight an industry-wide truth: safety isn’t just a priority—it’s the heartbeat of what we do. SEACOR Marine and Proceanic exemplify this ethos with extraordinary resolve. SEACOR’s relentless safety culture, driven by innovative tools and a zero-incident vision, and Proceanic’s pioneering Mini-ROV inspections, safeguarding lives and assets with remarkable precision, reflect the best of our collective mission. Their leadership amplifies a broader tide of excellence, where every company, every worker, and every breakthrough pushes us toward a safer, stronger offshore future. We honor them, and we extend our deepest gratitude to all entrants—each one a vital contributor to a safer, more resilient offshore industry.”
    SEACOR Marine CEO John Gellert commented, “We are proud to be recognized for our culture of safety, which reflects our ongoing commitment to protect the health and welfare of our employees, contractors, suppliers and the broader community. We believe that our commitment to a GOAL ZERO, incident-free environment is a shared responsibility across all levels of the organization, and we empower every individual with Stop Work Authority to ensure a culture of accountability. We will continue to develop, revise and implement policies and procedures to foster the safest possible work environment, maintaining our commitment to ensuring that safety remains at the heart of our operations.”
    Mark Waller, CEO of the Proceanic Group of Companies said, “It gives me great pleasure to accept this recognition from NOIA on behalf of Proceanic. The tireless work of our ROV Teams offshore, and the mission critical onshore support teams is what makes Proceanic successful. The ingenuity and innovation of our engineering personnel is what makes the work rewarding and keeps us at the industry forefront. The confidence placed in Proceanic by our Clients is what makes everything possible. We will continue to work, every day, to maintain that success, maintain that confidence and to keep it being rewarding for all.”
    About the SEACOR Marine Culture of Safety Entry
    SEACOR Marine has been honored in the 2025 NOIA Safety in Seas awards for its exemplary safety culture, anchored by a robust Safety Management System (SMS) and innovative programs like PAUSE (Prevent Accidents Use Safety Equipment). With an impeccable audit record, prestigious ISO certifications, and a data-driven approach—logging over 117,000 behavioral safety observations in 2024 alone—SEACOR Marine sets a gold standard for offshore safety. Initiatives like the PAUSE Champion and Goal Zero awards, alongside cutting-edge risk assessment tools, empower employees and drive zero-incident milestones, with 18 vessels achieving Goal Zero in 2024. This dynamic, people-first framework not only transforms SEACOR Marine’s operations but offers a scalable model for industry-wide safety excellence.
    About the Proceanic Safety Practice Entry
    Proceanic’s Underwater Remote (Mini-ROV) Inspection Services program has been celebrated in the 2025 NOIA Safety in Seas awards for improving underwater inspections in the offshore energy sector. By leveraging advanced Mini-ROV technology and innovative tooling, Proceanic delivers high inspection quality while drastically reducing risks to personnel, assets, and the environment compared to traditional diver and Work-Class ROV methods. With a 12-year, 350+ Campaign, incident-free record founded on a robust Safety Management System, the program has prevented potential catastrophes by identifying critical structural and equipment defects on platforms and floating assets, removing divers from (sometimes unexpectedly) unsafe work locations, reducing risk and carbon footprint related to Dive Support Vessels and Work-Class ROV Support Vessls. The program offers adaptable solutions across oil, gas, maritime, and emerging offshore wind industries. From cavitation cleaning to 3D photogrammetry. Proceanic’s pioneering approach sets a new benchmark for safety, reliability, and innovation.
    About the Safety in Seas Judging Process
    The judging panel, consisting of independent offshore safety consultants, as well as representatives from the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, and the Ocean Energy Safety Institute, reviewed each entry and then debated their merits on March 10, 2025.
    NOIA has held the SIS awards competition since 1978 to recognize those who contribute to improving the safety of life in the offshore energy industry. The awards are sponsored by Compass Publications.
    About SEACOR Marine
    SEACOR Marine provides global marine and support transportation services to offshore energy facilities worldwide. SEACOR Marine operates and manages a diverse fleet of offshore support vessels that deliver cargo and personnel to offshore installations, including offshore wind farms; assist offshore operations for production and storage facilities; provide construction, well work-over, offshore wind farm installation and decommissioning support and carry and launch equipment used underwater in drilling and well installation, maintenance, inspection and repair for offshore rigs and platforms. Additionally, SEACOR Marine’s vessels provide emergency response services and accommodations for technicians and specialists.
    For further information about SEACOR Marine’s sustainability practices and ESG initiatives, or to view its diverse energy-efficient fleet of offshore support vessels, please visit www.seacormarine.com.
    About Proceanic
    Proceanic is a full-service, Engineering, Project Management, & Underwater ROV Inspection Company, providing innovative & proven technical services to the Offshore & Maritime Industries.
    Established in 2002, the Proceanic group of companies has become a reliable international service provider. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, and with offices in Singapore, Malaysia, and Brazil, and representation in Nigeria, Indonesia, and Mexico.
    Engineering and ROV teams are readily deployable to any international destination, positioning Proceanic to effectively support clients and projects globally.
    Visit www.proceanic.com/ to learn more about the company.
    About NOIA
    The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) represents and advances a dynamic and growing offshore energy industry, providing solutions that support communities and protect our workers, the public and our environment.The post SEACOR Marine and Proceanic Earn NOIA Safety in Seas Awards appeared first on NOIA.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Philippines: State-sponsored online harassment has “chilling effect” on young human rights defenders  

    Source: Amnesty International –

    *Names changed to protect identity   

    Amnesty International’s first ever youth-led report reveals that online harassment by the Philippine authorities, including the practice of “red-tagging” or labelling individuals as communists, creates a climate of fear that is deterring young human rights defenders from engaging in activism and expressing themselves freely. 

    In the report, “Left to their own devices: The chilling effects of online harassment among young human rights defenders (YHRDs) in the Philippines,” young activists aged 18 to 24 shared experiences of being red-tagged, doxed with personal information published online without their consent, and trolled. They describe how online harassment has led to self-censorship, infringed their rights to freedom of expression and association, and in some cases, forced them to abandon their work as activists or journalists. 

    “The chilling effect of online harassment severely impairs the rights of these young human rights defenders. It not only threatens the individual, but also undermines their capacity to do their work to defend human rights. 

    Mia Tonogbanua, Amnesty Philippines Vice-Chairperson and former Youth Board Representative. 

    The report highlights how young activists’ age, sexual orientation, student status and institutional affiliations magnify the risks and impact of online harassment that they experience. 

    This current research is part of RightUp, Amnesty International’s first youth-led research project in which young voices, often overlooked in traditional human rights work, take centre stage. Nine young researchers documented and investigated the experiences of YHRDs through desk research, an online questionnaire, and interviews with young people aged 18 to 24. Amnesty International provided resources, guidance, and technical support. 

    Death threats, self-censorship and fear 

    State-sponsored online harassment has had disturbing effects on young activists. They describe suffering psychological distress, being isolated from families and social circles and feeling that their contribution to human rights work was devalued.  

    Habagat*, a student activist, received death threats after being publicly red-tagged on the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict’s (NTF-ELCAC) Facebook page. 

    “I couldn’t sleep properly for three weeks after it happened,” he recalled. “I was constantly afraid for my safety.”  

    NTF-ELCAC is a task force established by Philippine government in 2018 as part of its response to the ongoing communist insurgency in the country. Since its creation, it has been criticized by activists and human rights groups, including Amnesty International, for engaging in red-tagging. 

    Environmental defender Marisol* said she had resorted to “playing it safe” and self-censorship to minimize backlash over controversial issues. However, this approach has left her conflicted: “It’s like you’re not taking a stand on what needs to be done.” 

    Sarita*, a young advocate for peace and security in southern Philippines, said online harassment “made me feel so weak, so inferior compared to these politicians with all the powers that they have.” 

    Online harassment affects various rights, including the right to freedom of expression, freedom of peaceful assembly, health, remedy, non-discrimination and the right to defend human rights. 

    Young activists also spoke of a pervasive fear of participating in public discussions. Some of the YHRDs attributed this to concerns about reprisals from the authorities in the form of online harassment. Many expressed doubts about the value of their voices and expertise as young people in the face of violence and hatred in online spaces. 

    A call for collective action and accountability 

    Despite these challenges, YHRDs have found ways to adapt their approach to ensure they can continue their human rights advocacy. These include establishing internal well-being committees, enforcing safety protocols, and accessing mental health services.  

    “Being a young human rights defender in the Philippines is not safe, comfortable, or ideal. Yet…young activists continue to fight, spurred onwards by strategies for care and commitment to justice.  

    Mia Tonogbanua Amnesty Philippines Vice-Chairperson and former Youth Board Representative

    The Philippine government has consistently failed to fulfill its obligations to protect the rights of human rights defenders in the country. Perpetrators of online harassment are not effectively held accountable, while YHRDs must cope with the consequences of this harassment without sufficient support or protection. 

    At the time of publication, the Philippine government had not responded to a request for comment on the findings of Amnesty’s report. 

    Amnesty International urges the Philippine government to end state-sponsored red-tagging, intimidation, harassment, threats or attacks against activists, including young human rights defenders. 

    This research builds on findings of previous Amnesty International investigations, including how the two successive governments of President Duterte and President Marcos Jr have weaponized digital tools, misinformation and vague anti-terror laws to create a climate of fear and intimidation among young human rights defenders in the Philippines. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Joint press release following the first EU-Central Asia summit

    Source: Council of the European Union

    Following the first EU-Central Asia summit, European Council President António Costa, together with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, issued a joint press release, praising the successful outcome of the summit. The three leaders stressed the importance of upgrading the EU-Central Asia relations to a strategic partnership and outlined the main deliverables agreed during the summit.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Global experts meet in Sendai, Japan, to bridge knowledge and technology gaps in disaster risk reduction

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Experts from around the world met in Sendai, Japan, on 8 March 2025 to explore how emerging and disruptive technologies can reshape disaster risk reduction (DRR) and resilience-building, particularly in the Global South. 

    The ‘Leveraging Emerging and Disruptive Technologies for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR): Bridging Science, Technology, Academia, and Private Sector Nexus’ workshop, on the sidelines of the World Bosai Forum, brought together national and local governments, academia, the private sector, and financial institutions to overcome barriers and identify opportunities in integrating innovations such as AI, satellite systems, IoT, blockchain, and advanced analytics into DRR strategies. 

    The workshop emerged from to the Sendai Framework’s midterm review, which called on the DRR community to address persistent gaps in applying scientific and technological advances in disaster resilience efforts. 

    As disasters grow more complex, there’s a pressing need to ensure that countries, especially those most vulnerable, can access and use emerging technologies effectively, Sujit Mohanty, Chief of Intergovernmental, Interagency Cooperation and Partnerships at UNDRR, remarked during his opening remarks. 

    Mr Mohanty emphasised that while new tools are being rapidly developed, countries face challenges related to affordability, infrastructure, expertise, and cross-sector collaboration. Overreliance on untested technologies, he warned, may introduce new risks if not managed with care. 

    Real-world barriers and solutions 

    A highlight of the event was the roundtable discussion featuring speakers from Bangladesh, the Philippines, Mexico City, Sendai City, Japan’s private sector and academia. 

    Bangladesh’s representative, Mr Mohammad Nazmul Abedin, noted how the country has drastically reduced disaster-related deaths—from over 100,000 in 1991 to near zero in 2024—yet struggles to scale satellite-based flood monitoring and data-sharing mechanisms. He said the Bangladesh needs a national technology policy that integrates AI and blockchain, along with more investment and public-private partnerships. 

    Echoing similar constraints, Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito R. Alejandro IV of the Philippines outlined his country’s efforts, such as the GeoRisk platform and IoT-enabled early warning systems. Technology is part of the solution, but it must be paired with good governance, inclusive policies and international collaboration, he noted. 

    Sendai City showcased successful collaboration through initiatives like BOSAI-TECH—a public-private-academic platform fostering DRR innovation and technology commercialisation. Ms. Satoko Shibuya, Director at Sendai’s Disaster-Resilient and Environmentally Friendly City Promotion Office, explained that local partnerships have yielded practical tools like evacuation guidance drones and voice-enhanced disaster alerts. 

    Financing innovation and building trust 

    Speakers representing private sector participants discussed the financial and regulatory environments needed to bring DRR technologies to scale. Mr. Yoshiki Hiruma of the Development Bank of Japan shared insights into DRR-linked financing that rewards clients with reduced loan rates for resilience-building initiatives. He noted that risk financing must embrace a challenge mindset to support DRR innovation. 

    Mr. Shoichi Tateno, of Weathernews Inc., stressed the importance of mutual understanding and trust between governments and private weather service providers – particularly in countries where state meteorological services dominate the sector. He offered the inclusive platform approach of Japan’s Meteorological Service Act as a model of such trust. 

    Academia can offer reliable innovation and policy integration 

    Participants from academia stressed the need for adaptive governance and robust dialogue.  

    Professor Rajib Shaw of Keio University called for more systematic evaluation of successful DRR tech collaborations and piloting through initiatives like the upcoming Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) DRR Innovation Hub. He pointed out that governments and technology developers operate at different speeds, and that it requires structure, trust, and experimentation in order to bridge that divide. 

    Professor Kimio Takeya of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Tohoku University said that while proven technologies remain essential for national governments, they must be extended with emerging tools that offer new ways to improve operations. He cited JICA’s Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) programme – which funds international research on disaster risk reduction – as a model for innovation grounded in collaboration. 

    A global partnership and a dedicated knowledge resource 

    In closing, Mr Mohanty said that UNDRR will facilitate Global Partnership on Emerging and Disruptive Technologies for Disaster Resilience which will foster long-term collaboration and ensure that the next wave of DRR innovation is inclusive, actionable, and globally accessible. 

    He remarked that the workshop had spotlighted the urgent need for a dedicated knowledge resource – one that captures good practices and deepens understanding of how emerging technologies are shaping the current DRR landscape.  

    Such a tool could bridge persistent gaps and drive more effective, widespread integration of innovation into disaster risk reduction efforts. 

    Read the full summary report on the workshop

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025: Reform through Stakeholder Engagement

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:45PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025 was introduced to fix problems in the management and governance of Waqf properties. The aim is to make rules clearer, include more people in decision-making, and improve how Waqf assets are used.

    On August 8, 2024, two bills were introduced in the Lok Sabha; Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024. These bills aim to make Waqf Boards work more smoothly and ensure Waqf properties are managed well.

    The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025 seeks to repeal the Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923, which was created during British rule and is now outdated. Removing this old law will help create a more consistent, transparent, and accountable system under the Waqf Act, 1995, removing confusion caused by the old law.

    The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 aims to update the Waqf Act, 1995, to solve problems in managing Waqf properties. It proposes several improvements, such as:

    • Overcome the shortcomings of the previous act and enhance the efficiency of Waqf boards by introducing changes such as renaming the Act
    • Updating the definitions of Waqf
    • Improving the registration process
    • Increasing the role of technology in managing Waqf records​.

    Distinctive aspects of this Bill:

    • On August 9, 2024, both Houses of Parliament agreed through separate motions to send the Bill to a Joint Committee for review and a report. This Joint Committee included 21 Members from the Lok Sabha and 10 Members from the Rajya Sabha.
    • Since the Bill is important and has a broad impact, the Committee decided to gather opinions from the public, experts, stakeholders, and other relevant organizations on its provisions.
    • The first sitting took place on August 22, 2024 and the key organizations/ stakeholders consulted during the sittings were:
    1. All India Sunni Jamiyatul Ulama, Mumbai;
    2. Indian Muslims of Civil Rights (IMCR), New Delhi
    3. Muttaheda Majlis-e- Ulema, J&K (Mirwaiz Umar Farooq)
    4. Zakat Foundation of India
    5. Anjuman E Shiteali Dawoodi Bohra Community
    6. Chanakya National Law University, Patna
    7. All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaaz, Delhi
    8. All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), Delhi
    9. All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC), Ajmer
    10. Muslim Rashtriya Manch, Delhi
    11. Muslim Women Intellectual Group – Dr. Shalini Ali, National Convener
    12. Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, Delhi
    13. Shia Muslim Dharamguru and Intellectual Group
    14. Darul Uloom Deoband
    • The Joint Parliamentary Committee held 36 meetings, where they listened to the opinions and suggestions of representatives from different Ministries, Departments, State Governments, State Waqf Boards, and experts/stakeholders. In total, they received 97,27,772 memoranda through both physical and digital modes.
    • To thoroughly review the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, the Committee conducted detailed study visits across multiple cities in India. The details of the study visits in 10 cities are as under:
    1. 26.09.2024 to 010.2024: Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru
    2. 09.11.2024 to 11.11.2024: Guwahati, Bhubaneshwar
    3. 18.01.2025 to 21.01.2025: Patna, Kolkata and Lucknow
    • The Committee had in-depth discussions, interacting with 284 stakeholders, 25 State Waqf Boards, 15 State Governments, 5 Minorities Commissions, and 20 Ministers/MPs/MLAs/MLCs. These visits helped Committee members understand the situation on the ground and collect region-specific insights.
    • The Waqf (Amendment) Bill has 44 Clauses and the Joint Committee on Waqf Amendment Bill (JCWAB) has recommended changes in 19 Clauses.
    • The Joint Committee submitted its report to the Hon’ble Speaker of Lok Sabha on 31 January 2025, and the report was laid before both Houses of Parliament on 13 February 2025.

    An example of recommendations submitted:

    The All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaaz, an organization working for their upliftment, presented its suggestions before the Joint Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

    1. Introduction of an Appellate System
    2. Better Management of Waqf Records
    3. Stricter Penalties for Encroachment and Misuse
    4. Disqualification of Board Members Involved in Irregularities
    5. Proper Utilization of Waqf Property Revenue
    6. Empowering Senior Revenue Officials for Fair Inquiry

    Conclusion

    The Joint Parliamentary Committee Report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 highlights the effort to make Waqf property management fair, transparent, and efficient. The Committee listened to different viewpoints, conducted study visits, and had detailed discussions to address the concerns of stakeholders. The proposed changes in the Bill aim to create a more inclusive and responsible system that meets the changing needs of society.

    Click here to download PDF

    *******

    Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kritika Rane

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations – English

    round the world, more than 100 million people are at risk from landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices.

    From Afghanistan to Myanmar, from Sudan to Ukraine, Syria, the Occupied Palestinian Territory and beyond, these deadly devices litter rural and urban communities, indiscriminately killing civilians and blocking vital humanitarian and development efforts. 

    Even when the guns fall silent, these remnants of war remain, lurking in fields and on pathways and roadways, threatening the lives of innocent civilians and the livelihoods of communities.   

    Year in and year out, the brave mine action personnel of the United Nations work with partners to locate and remove these weapons, provide education and threat assessments, and ensure people can live, work and travel safely. They do so at great risk – as demonstrated most recently in Gaza.

    This year’s theme for the International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action — Safe Futures Start Here — reminds us of the critical role of mine action in rebuilding shattered communities, supporting survivors and forging peace.

    I appeal to all States that have not yet done so to ratify and fully implement the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, the Convention on Cluster Munitions and the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons. The humanitarian norms and principles enshrined in these treaties must be upheld and preserved.

    And I urge States to uphold the global commitments in the recently adopted Pact for the Future to restrict or refrain from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, and to support all efforts to end the threat of explosive ordnances.

    Mine action works. Together, let’s commit to build safe futures — starting here and now.

    ***
    Plus de 100 millions de personnes dans le monde vivent sous la menace des mines terrestres, des restes explosifs de guerre et des engins explosifs improvisés.

    De l’Afghanistan au Myanmar, du Soudan à l’Ukraine, en passant par la Syrie, le Territoire palestinien occupé et bien d’autres territoires, ces engins meurtriers jonchent les communautés rurales et urbaines, tuent sans distinction des civils et entravent les efforts vitaux en matière d’aide humanitaire et de développement.

    Même lorsque les armes se taisent, ces restes de guerre subsistent, tapis dans des champs, des sentiers ou des routes, et menacent ainsi la vie de civils innocents et les moyens de subsistance des populations locales.

    Année après année, les courageux spécialistes de la lutte antimines de l’ONU travaillent aux côtés de partenaires pour localiser et éliminer ces armes, sensibiliser les esprits aux risques et évaluer les menaces, et veiller à ce que les populations puissent vivre, travailler et se déplacer en toute sécurité. Ils le font à leurs risques et périls, comme cela s’est vu récemment à Gaza.

    Le thème de la Journée internationale pour la sensibilisation au problème des mines et l’assistance à la lutte antimines de cette année, « Agir maintenant pour bâtir un avenir sûr », nous rappelle que la lutte antimines joue un rôle essentiel dans la reconstruction des communautés dévastées, le soutien aux rescapés et l’instauration de la paix.

    J’engage les États Membres qui ne l’ont pas encore fait à ratifier la Convention sur l’interdiction des mines antipersonnel, la Convention sur les armes à sous-munitions et la Convention sur certaines armes classiques, et à les mettre pleinement en œuvre. Les normes et principes humanitaires inscrits dans ces traités doivent être respectés et préservés.

    J’exhorte également les États à respecter les engagements mondiaux énoncés dans le Pacte pour l’avenir récemment adopté, c’est-à-dire à ne pas utiliser d’armes explosives dans les zones peuplées ou à en limiter le recours, et à soutenir tous les efforts visant à mettre fin à la menace que représentent les engins explosifs.

    La lutte antimines porte ses fruits. Ensemble, engageons-nous à bâtir un avenir sûr, ici et maintenant.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Mine Action Day – Press Conference | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Press Conference by Richard Boulter, Chief of Design, Operational Support and Oversight, UNMAS (in person); along with Edwin Faigmane, Chief of the Mine Action Programme in Nigeria (virtual), and Fatma Zourrig, Chief of the Mine Action Programme in Libya (virtual), ahead of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action 2025.

    —————————————

    An investigation on the attack that happened against the UNOPS compound in Gaza on the 19th of March is underway, being led by the United Nations Department of Safety and Security, with UNOPS and UNMAS participating, according to the UN Mine Action Service.

    The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) officials briefed the reporters today (03 Apr) in New York ahead of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action (04 Apr), under the theme “Safe Futures Start Here”. The UN mine action community brought attention to the progress made over the last year and the challenges that remain in countries around the world.

    Giving an update on Gaza, UNMAS’s Lee Woodyear said that the office is still working in the Strip, “we have six people there as of this morning,” adding that the office is doing the best to escort the United Nations missions that are taking place there.

    He stated that UNMAS escorted the mission that went to investigate the killing of the health workers in Gaza.

    For his part, Richard Boulter, UNMAS’s Chief of Design, Operational Support and Oversight told reporters, “Landmines, improvised explosive devices and unexploded ordnance continue to cause death and injury on a daily basis.”

    “On average, one person is killed or injured by such explosive devices every hour. Many children among the victims,” he stated.

    Boulter said, “The use of improvised explosive devices has expanded, terrorizing civilians and threatening humanitarian actors and the United Nations missions and personnel.”

    The senior UNMAS official stressed that building on the Pack of the Future, there’s need for funding micro and quick impact projects to address urgent needs of persons with physical disabilities affected by conflict.

    He said, “This initiative reinforces the global commitment to civilian protection and to scaling up technology and innovation capacities in developing countries.”

    Briefing the reporters via video link, Fatma Zourrig, Chief of the Mine, Action Programme in Libya reiterated, “every life lost or changed by explosive contamination, delays Libya recovery, undermines the stability on the ground.”

    She continued, “The threats range from anti-personnel and anti-vehicle mines to UXOs, IED and unsecured contamination. Libya’s vast ammunition storage area, many of which were damaged and destroyed, still hold hundreds of bunkers, some of which are unsecured and pose serious risk.”

    “Mine action in Libya is not just the technical task, it is a humanitarian and peace building in person. It is about saving lives, restoring confidence and enabling people to return home,” Zourrig highlighted.

    For his part, Edwin Faigmane, Chief of the Mine Action Programme in Nigeria said that his office has recorded the increasing use of IEDs in northwest Nigeria and in northeast Nigeria.

    “UNMAS is working with the Nigerian government to mitigate the risks from explosive ordnance. UNMAS deliveries basic education with national NGOs working across the region,” he added.

    Faigmane said that UNMAS is also working with the police and civil defense to deliver risk education areas that are not accessible by humanitarian actors, which is an initiative funded by the British Government.

    “In addition, UNMAS with funding from the Japanese government, is beginning to work with the police and civil defense through the newly established National Mine Action Center to train the first two humanitarian demining teams in the country,” he concluded.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ynSop2RP1w

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s video message at the Central Asia in the Face of Global Climate Challenges; Consolidation for Common Prosperity International Conference

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Download the video:
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+3+April+25/3357789_MSG+SG+COMMON+PROSPERITY+INTL+CONFERENCE+03+APR+25.mp4

    Excellencies.

    Thank you for your invitation.

    I commend President Mirziyoyev for hosting this conference — and for declaring 2025 the year of environmental protection and the green economy. 

    I also applaud the environment of dialogue and cooperation that characterises the region today.

    This approach is reflected in the recent summit between Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, and their trilateral agreement on the Junction Point of State borders.

    And it is reflected in this International Conference today.

    Excellencies,

    The climate crisis is taking hold around the world. 

    The evidence is all around us – with the hottest days, the hottest months, the hottest years, and the hottest decade on record. 

    We see it clearly in Central Asia with soaring temperatures, glacier retreat, droughts, and worsening dust storms.

    Left unchecked, this crisis will only escalate – pummelling economies, taking lives, devastating livelihoods, and imperilling food and water supplies.

    The tragedy of the Aral Sea also shows how environmental destruction hurts people and communities.

    Cooperation throughout Central Asia is essential.

    And regional action must be complemented by global action.

    New national climate plans – or NDCs – due this year must align with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius, as promised.

    And cover all emissions and the whole economy.

    The G20 must lead. 

    This is an opportunity to bring together energy transition strategies and sustainable development priorities with climate action – to attract investment and build prosperity and security.

    I urge all countries to take it.

    And to act to ensure the world makes good on climate finance commitments.

    We need confidence the new $1.3 trillion climate finance goal will be delivered.
     
    We need developed countries to honour the promise of at least $40 billion a year for adaptation, by this year.

    And we must strengthen support for loss and damage to help the most vulnerable countries and people.

    Excellencies,

    Once again, thank you for coming together to forge a path forward – and deliver.

    I wish you a successful conference.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: On the occasion of Ram Navami, PM to visit Tamil Nadu and inaugurate New Pamban Rail Bridge connecting Rameswaram to the mainland

    Source: Government of India

    On the occasion of Ram Navami, PM to visit Tamil Nadu and inaugurate New Pamban Rail Bridge connecting Rameswaram to the mainland

    PM to also lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation various rail and road projects worth over Rs 8,300 crore in Tamil Nadu

    PM to flag off Rameswaram-Tambaram (Chennai) new train service

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 2:35PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will visit Tamil Nadu on 6th April. On the occasion of Ram Navami, at around 12 noon, he will inaugurate the new Pamban Rail Bridge – India’s first vertical lift sea bridge and flag off a train and a ship from the road bridge and witness the operation of the bridge.

    Thereafter at around 12:45 PM, he will perform darshan and pooja at Ramanathaswamy temple at Rameswaram. At around 1:30 PM in Rameswaram, he will lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation various rail and road projects worth over Rs 8,300 crore in Tamil Nadu. He will also address the gathering on the occasion.

    Prime Minister will inaugurate the New Pamban Rail Bridge and flag off Rameswaram-Tambaram (Chennai) new train service. The bridge carries a deep cultural significance. According to the Ramayana, the construction of Ram Setu was initiated from Dhanushkodi near Rameswaram.

    The Bridge, linking Rameswaram to the mainland, stands as a remarkable feat of Indian engineering on the global stage. It is built at a cost of over Rs 550 crore. It is 2.08 km in length, features 99 spans and a 72.5-metre vertical lift span that rises up to a height of 17 metres, facilitating smooth movement of ships while ensuring seamless train operations. Constructed with stainless steel reinforcement, high-grade protective paint, and fully welded joints, the bridge boasts increased durability and reduced maintenance needs. It is designed for dual rail tracks to accommodate future demands. A special polysiloxane coating protects it from corrosion, ensuring longevity in the harsh marine environment.

    Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation various rail and road projects worth over Rs 8,300 crore in Tamil Nadu. These projects include foundation stone for four-laning of 28 Km long Walajapet – Ranipet section of NH-40 and dedication to the Nation of 4-laned 29 Km long Viluppuram – Puducherry section of NH-332; 57 Km long Poondiyankuppam – Sattanathapuram section of NH-32 and 48 Km long Cholapuram – Thanjavur section of NH-36. These highways will connect many pilgrim centres and tourist places, reduce distance between cities and enable faster access to Medical College and Hospital, Ports besides empowering local farmers to transport agricultural products to the nearby markets and boost economic activity of local leather and small scale industries.

     

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    MJPS/SR

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: List of Initiatives : Prime Minister’s participation in the 6th BIMSTEC SUMMIT

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 2:32PM by PIB Delhi

    Business

    * Establishment of BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce.

    * Organization of BIMSTEC Business Summit every year.

    * Feasibility study on the possibilities of trade in local currency in the BIMSTEC region.

    IT

    * Pilot study to understand the needs of BIMSTEC countries to share the experience of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)

    * Connectivity between UPI and payment systems in the BIMSTEC region.

    Mitigation and Disaster Management

    * Establishing the BIMSTEC Centre of Excellence for Disaster Management in India to cooperate in disaster management, relief and rehabilitation.

    * Fourth joint exercises between BIMSTEC Disaster Management Authorities to be held in India this year.

    Security

    * Holding the first meeting of the Home Ministers’ Mechanism in India

    Space

    * Setting up ground stations for manpower training for BIMSTEC countries, manufacturing and launching of Nano Satellites, and use of remote sensing data.

    Capacity Building and Training

    * “BODHI”, i.e., “BIMSTEC for Organised Development of Human resource Infrastructure” initiative. Under this, 300 youth from BIMSTEC countries will be trained in India every year.

    * Scholarships to BIMSTEC students in the Forestry Research Institute of India and expansion of the scholarship scheme at Nalanda University.

    * Taining programme every year for young diplomats from BIMSTEC countries.

    * Tata Memorial Centre to support training and capacity building in cancer care in BIMSTEC countries.

    * Establishment of Centre of Excellence for research and dissemination in traditional medicine

    * Centre of Excellence in India for exchange of knowledge and best practices, research and capacity building for the benefit of farmers.

    Energy

    * BIMSTEC Energy Centre in Bengaluru has started working.

    * Faster work on electric grid interconnection.

    Youth engagement

    * BIMSTEC Young Leaders’ Summit to be held this year.

    * The BIMSTEC Hackathon and Young Professional Visitors programme will be launched.

    Sports

    * Holding ‘BIMSTEC Athletics Meet’ in India this year.

    * Hosting the first BIMSTEC Games in 2027

    Culture

    * BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival to be held in India this year

    Connectivity

    * Establishment of Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre in India to work to enhance coordination in capacity building, research, innovation and maritime policies.

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister participates in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, Thailand

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 2:29PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today participated in the 6th BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Summit hosted by Thailand, the current chair. The theme of the Summit was – “BIMSTEC: Prosperous, Resilient and Open”. It reflected the priorities of the leaders and the aspirations of the peoples of the BIMSTEC region, as well as the efforts of BIMSTEC in ensuring shared growth in times of global uncertainties.

    Prime Minister began his address by offering condolences on the loss of lives in the devastating earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. He thanked Prime Minister Shinawatra for successfully steering the Group. Highlighting BIMSTEC as a vital bridge between South Asia and South-East Asia, Prime Minister underlined that the Group had become an impactful platform for regional cooperation, coordination and progress. In this regard, he called for further strengthening the agenda and capacity of BIMSTEC.

    Prime Minister announced several India-led initiatives towards institution and capacity building in BIMSTEC. These include setting up of BIMSTEC Centres of Excellence in India on Disaster Management, Sustainable Maritime Transport, Traditional Medicine, and Research and Training in Agriculture. He also announced a new programme for skilling the youth – BODHI [BIMSTEC for Organized Development of Human Resource Infrastructure] under which training and scholarships would be provided to professionals, students, researchers, diplomats and others. He also offered a pilot study by India to assess regional needs in Digital Public Infrastructure and a capacity building programme for cancer care in the region. Calling for greater regional economic integration, Prime Minister offered to establish BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce and to organize BIMSTEC Business Summit every year in India.

    Emphasizing on the need to build upon the historic and cultural ties that bring the region together, Prime Minister announced several initiatives to further strengthen people-to-people linkages. India would be hosting a BIMSTEC Athletics Meet this year and the first BIMSTEC Games in 2027 when the group celebrates its 30th anniversary. It would also host a BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival. To bring the youths of the region closer, Prime Minister announced a Young Leaders’ Summit, a Hackathon and a Young Professional Visitors programme. The full list of initiatives announced by the Prime Minister may be seen here.

    The Summit adopted the following:

    i. Summit Declaration

    ii. BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030 document, which lays out the road map for the collective prosperity of the region.

    iii. Signing of the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement, which provides for – National Treatment and assistance to vessels, crew and cargo; mutual recognition of certificates/ documents; Joint Shipping Coordination Committee; and dispute settlement mechanism.

    ⅳ. Report of the BIMSTEC Eminent Persons Group constituted to make recommendations for future direction for the BIMSTEC.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister meets PM of Bhutan

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 1:30PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met the Prime Minister of Bhutan, H.E. Mr. Tshering Tobgay on the sidelines of the 6th BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok, Thailand today.

    In a post on X, he stated:

    “Had a great conversation with my good friend, PM Tobgay. India’s friendship with Bhutan is robust. We are cooperating extensively in several sectors.

    @tsheringtobgay”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM proposes a 21-point Action Plan covering different aspects of cooperation amongst BIMSTEC nations

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 12:53PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi proposed a 21-point Action Plan covering different aspects of cooperation among the BIMSTEC nations at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Thailand today. He remarked to boost business across BIMSTEC nations and harness the rich potential of the IT sector. He also urged the need to work together in the field of disaster management in the wake of recent earthquake affecting Myanmar and Thailand. Shri Modi emphasised to work in the world of space and strengthen the security apparatus. Urging to collectively energise BIMSTEC and underlining the role of  youth who will take the lead, he expressed hope that the cultural linkages will further bring the BIMSTEC nations closer.

    In a thread post on X, he wrote:

    “BIMSTEC is an important forum to further global good. It is imperative we strengthen it and deepen our engagement. In this context, I proposed a 21-point Action Plan covering different aspects of our cooperation.”

    “It’s time to boost business across BIMSTEC nations!”

    “Let’s harness the rich potential of the IT sector and make BIMSTEC technologically stronger.”

    “The recent earthquake affecting Myanmar and Thailand underscores the need to work together in the field of disaster management.”

    “Let’s take our cooperation to the world of space. Let’s also make our security apparatus stronger.”

    “BIMSTEC has the potential to be a shining example of capacity building frameworks. We will all learn from each other and grow!”

    “We will collectively energise BIMSTEC and it’s our youth who will take the lead.”

    “Few things connect like culture! May cultural linkages bring BIMSTEC even closer.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Conference of State Government Ministers on Strengthening of Statistical Systems to be held on 5th April, 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 12:01PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is organizing a “Conference of State Government Ministers on Strengthening of Statistical Systems” on 5th April, 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.    

    The main objective of the conference is to highlight the importance of producing relevant, accurate, and timely statistics at both the national and sub-national levels, with a particular emphasis on the need for sub-national estimates for various socio-economic indicators. The discussion will also focus on emphasizing the key areas where deeper collaboration and partnership between the Centre and the States are not only desirable but crucial for strengthening both national and state statistical systems.  The conference aims to gain a thorough understanding of the specific needs and requirements of the States/Union Territories (UTs) to improve their statistical systems, as well as to ascertain their expectations.

    The Conference will serve as a platform for establishing a regular and sustained framework to strengthen statistical collaboration between States/UTs and MoSPI across a range of critical areas.  These inter-alia, include the implementation of the Support for Statistical Strengthening (SSS) Scheme in States/UTs, the participation of States/UTs in National Sample Surveys to generate district-level estimates, the compilation of GDP, IIP, and CPI at the sub-national level, as well as some of the innovation initiatives of MoSPI to address the challenges in generating official statistics, technical support to States/UTs in development, greater use of administrative statistics and alternative datasets, refinement of sub-national level monitoring frameworks for SDGs and implementation of MPLAD Scheme.

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation Rao Inderjit Singh, Chief Minister/Dy. Chief Minister/State Government Ministers of Planning & Senior Officers from States/UT Governments, Officers from MoSPI and other distinguished officials are expected to participate in the meeting.

    ***

    Samrat/Allen: pibmospi[at]gmail[dot]com

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Annual Report of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India for the year 2023-24

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 11:52AM by PIB Delhi

    The Annual Report of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India for the year 2023-24 detailing activities of the Authority, certified accounts and the audit report thereupon has been laid on the Table of Lok Sabha on 12th March 2025 and Rajya Sabha on 20th March 2025.

    The Annual Report of TRAI details the policies and programmes, review of General environment in the telecom sector and broadcasting sector, review of working and operation of TRAI, functions of TRAI in respect of matters specified in Section 11 of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act 1997 and its organizational matters including financial performance.

    A copy of the Annual Report of TRAI for the year 2023-24 has been placed on the website of TRAI (www.trai.gov.in) for information of the general public.

    In case of any further clarification, Shri Yatinder Agrohi, Advisor (Administration and IR) TRAI, may be contacted at 011-26769602, email id: advadmn@trai.gov.in.
     

    ******

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    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FIRST MEETING BETWEEN PRIME MINISTER FIAME NAOMI MATAAFA AND GOVERNOR PULAALII NIKOLAO PULA

    Source:

    Share this:

    [PRESS RELEASE]- The Prime Minister of Samoa, Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataafa met for the first time with the new Governor of American Samoa, Hon. Pulaalii Nikolao Pula and Lieutenant Governor, Hon. Pulu Ae Ae Jr at 3pm the 3rd January 2025 following the Inauguration Ceremony in the morning.

    The meeting was held at the Governor’s Office, AP Lutali Executive Office Building.

    The Prime Minister congratulated Governor Pula and LT Pulu on this auspicious occasion and further conveyed the best wishes from the Government and people of Samoa towards their tenure in the leadership.

    During his inauguration speech, Governor Pula reiterated the importance of the Atoa o Samoa relations given our common ancestry and heritage with the old saying, ‘Blood is thicker than water’.

    The dialogue focused on continuing cooperation on mutual development interests such as trade, civil aviation, labor mobility, Pacific Islands Forum and collaboration in the region. Samoa will host the next Atoa o Samoa on May 2025. Honorable Mataafa attended as the Official Guest of Government from Samoa accompanied by CEO, MPMC, Agafili Shem Leo and Consul General, Fata Brian Kaio.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Labour and Employment Disburses Over 32 Crores as Scholarship to More Than 92,000 Wards of Beedi, Cine and Non-Coal Mine Workers

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 2:57PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant achievement, the Ministry of Labour & Employment has disbursed financial assistance for education to all eligible applicants under Labour Welfare Schemes (LWS) meant for wards of Beedi, Cine, and Non-Coal Mine workers. A total of Rs. 32.51 crores has been disbursed to 92,118 wards of Beedi, Cine and Non-coal mine workers who applied for scholarship during the academic year 2024-25.

    The Education component of the Labour Welfare Scheme is implemented through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) and is administered by Labour Welfare Organisation (LWO) in 18 regions under the administrative control of the Directorate General of Labour Welfare (DGLW), Ministry of Labour and Employment.

    Under the scheme, financial assistance of upto ₹25,000 per student per annum is provided to eligible wards for education in school, college and professional courses. The benefits are disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) using the Aadhaar Payment Bridge (APB) method, ensuring transparency and efficiency.

    This landmark accomplishment reflects the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to timely and efficient service delivery, ensuring that wards of Beedi, Cine and Non-Coal Mine Workers receive financial assistance when they need it most. It was made possible through the relentless efforts and seamless coordination of officials from the Ministry and the 18 Labour Welfare Organisation (LWO) regions, whose dedication to the welfare of workers and their families has enabled the timely support of continuing education for the wards of Beedi, Cine, and Non-Coal Mine workers.

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    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2118720) Visitor Counter : 75

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister’s meeting with Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of State Administration Council on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 2:55PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met today with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of State Administration Council and Prime Minister of Myanmar, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok.

    The two leaders discussed the situation in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in Myanmar, including India’s ongoing efforts under “Operation Brahma” to provide humanitarian aid, disaster relief and medical assistance to Myanmar. The Senior General expressed his gratitude for India’s assistance efforts. Prime Minister conveyed that, as the First Responder, India stands with Myanmar in this time of crisis and is ready to deploy more material assistance and resources if required.

    PM underlined the importance of early restoration of a democratic process through inclusive and credible elections, adding that India supported efforts aimed at fostering trust and advancing a Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led transition towards a peaceful, stable and democratic future. Alluding to the human cost of the ongoing ethnic violence in Myanmar, PM underlined that there was no military solution to the conflict and stressed that enduring peace could only be achieved through an inclusive dialogue.

    Prime Minister appreciated the support extended by Myanmar for the rescue and repatriation of Indian nationals from cyber-scam centres along the Myanmar–Thailand border. Both sides agreed on the need to cooperate in addressing insurgent activities, transnational crimes and human trafficking along the India-Myanmar border.

    The two leaders also discussed the ongoing India-supported infrastructure development projects in Myanmar. Prime Minister underlined India’s readiness to support the developmental needs of all communities in Myanmar.

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2118719) Visitor Counter : 93

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –