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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Audiovisual Co-production Agreement between India and Colombia; To Boost Co-Production and Strengthen Cultural Ties

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Audiovisual Co-production Agreement between India and Colombia; To Boost Co-Production and Strengthen Cultural Ties

    Colombia becomes the 17th country to sign such agreement with India

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 8:33PM by PIB Delhi

    The Audiovisual Co-production Agreement between India and Colombia will be signed on 15.10.2024 at 4PM at the National Media Centre, New Delhi. 

    The signatories representing India and Colombia will be Dr. L. Murugan, Hon’ble Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and His Excellency Mr. Jorge Enrique Rojas Rodriguez, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Colombia respectively.

    About the agreement

    The agreement between India and Columbia is expected to benefit producers from both the countries in pooling their creative, artistic, technical, financial and marketing resources for the co-production. It will also lead to exchange of art and culture among the two countries and create goodwill and better understanding among the people of both the countries thereby boosting cultural ties between the two countries.

    Currently, India has co-production treaties with 16 countries, resulting in 29 projects over the last five years. Colombia is the 17th country with which India is signing a Co-Production Agreement.

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    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Audiovisual Co-production Agreement between India and Colombia

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 8:33PM by PIB Delhi

    An Audiovisual Co-production Agreement between India and Colombia will be signed on 15.10.2024 at 4PM at the National Media Centre, New Delhi. 

    The signatories representing India and Colombia will be Dr. L. Murugan, Hon’ble Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and His Excellency Mr. Jorge Enrique Rojas Rodriguez, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Colombia respectively.

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    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Dharmendra Pradhan participates in fireside chat organised by US India Strategic Partnership Forum

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 9:55PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, today participated in a fireside chat organised by the US India Strategic Partnership Forum as part of the India Leadership Summit 2024. He was joined by Mr. Ryan Roslansky, the CEO of LinkedIn, and Mr. Marvin Krislov, the President of Pace University.

    Speaking at the event, Shri Pradhan said that as the National Education Policy 2020 moves towards completing five years, India is giving unprecedented impetus to embracing new technologies, learning in Indian languages, and enhancing research and employability skills. He shared his thoughts on India’s progress in various aspects of education, which is driving learners towards competency and knowledge-based enterprises. The Minister also highlighted how India can embrace new opportunities for developing a future-ready, responsible generation of global citizens.

    Shri Pradhan further stated that the world needs to come together to solve global challenges, and India is ready to play its role. From opening doors for foreign universities to set up campuses in India to moving towards a paradigm of prioritizing competency over degrees, India will fulfill the aspirations of its society and become a growth engine for the world, he added.

     

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    MV/AK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Nobel Peace Prize, Lebanon & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    – Nobel Peace Prize
    – Noon Briefing Guest
    – Secretary-General
    – Lebanon
    – Security Council
    – Lebanon/Humanitarian
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Ukraine
    – South Sudan
    – West and Central Africa Floods
    – UNHCR
    – International Days

    Nobel Peace Prize
    The Secretary-General warmly congratulated the grassroots Japanese organization Nihon Hidankyo on being awarded the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize. 
    The atomic bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, also known as the hibakusha, are selfless, soul-bearing witnesses of the horrific human cost of nuclear weapons. While their numbers grow smaller each year, the relentless work and resilience of the hibakusha are the backbone of the global nuclear disarmament movement.  
    In a statement, the Secretary-General said that he will never forget his many meetings with them over the years. Their haunting living testimony reminds the world that the nuclear threat is not confined to history books.  Nuclear weapons remain a clear and present danger to humanity, once again appearing in the daily rhetoric of international relations. 
    It is time for world leaders to be as clear-eyed as the hibakusha and see nuclear weapons for what they are: devices of death that offer no safety, protection, or security. The only way to eliminate the threat of nuclear weapons is to eliminate them altogether. 
    The United Nations proudly stands with the hibakusha.  They are an inspiration to our shared efforts to build a world free of nuclear weapons.  

    Noon Briefing Guest
    Izumi Nakamitsu, the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs briefed reporters on the Nobel Peace Prize being awarded to Nihon Hidankyo for its work advocating for a world free of nuclear weapons.

    Secretary-General
    The Secretary-General this morning addressed the ASEAN-UN Summit in Vientiane. He underscored the importance of the relationship between the two organizations which, he said, is a strategic partnership. In a world with growing geopolitical divides, with dramatic impacts on peace and security and sustainable development, the Association of South-East Asian Nations [ASEAN] is a bridge-builder and a messenger for peace, he said.
    He also underscored how much the United Nations is grateful for ASEAN’s important contribution to UN peacekeeping operations. The Secretary-General took the opportunity to express his solidarity with Indonesia, as two of its peacekeepers serving with UNIFIL were wounded yesterday by Israeli fire in south Lebanon. 
    The Secretary-General outlined the key areas of the recently adopted Pact for the Future, which offers a strong vision for the time ahead. 
    In a press conference, the Secretary-General was asked about the wounding of the two peacekeepers in Lebanon, and he condemned the shooting against the UN premises in which the two peacekeepers were wounded, adding that it was a violation of international humanitarian law. Peacekeepers must be protected by all parties of the conflict, he said.
    Prior to the meeting, the Secretary-General also held bilateral meetings with the President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Thongloun Sisoulith, and with the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, Pham Minh Chinh. We have issued readouts of those meetings.

    Office of the Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Website
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/spokesperson/

    Full Highlights
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5X_cjKpmog

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs on the RCMP’s findings regarding criminal activity in Canada with connections to agents of the Government of India

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, issued the following statement:

    Ottawa – October 14, 2024

    Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, issued the following statement:

    “Earlier today, Commissioner Duheme and Assistant Commissioner Gauvin of the RCMP released findings with respect to the involvement of agents of the Government of India in serious criminal activity on Canadian soil. The RCMP took this unprecedented step in response to the fact that despite law enforcement action, the activities have continued, which pose an ongoing and significant threat to public safety, particularly to members of the Sikh and broader South Asian community in Canada.  

    I want to thank all those involved in this deeply complex investigation, including the many municipal police services with whom the RCMP has worked closely to mitigate threats to public safety throughout Canada.

    In addition to the actions taken by our independent law enforcement agencies, I am working closely with my colleague, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, who has taken additional actions to reduce this threat and together, we are employing every possible action to address these criminal activities, which must stop now.

    For many Canadians, particularly Indo-Canadians, this news will come as a shock.

    The actions that are alleged to have taken place on Canadian soil are a grave violation of our sovereignty and our rule of law.

    But I also hope that Canadians can find relief in knowing that our law enforcement and national security agencies are working to keep you safe and hold to account those who seek to harm our communities. I strongly encourage all Canadians and in particular, leaders in the South Asian community, to continue to work with law enforcement officials.

    For generations, people from every corner of the globe have come to Canada seeking a better life, precisely because they felt that the Canadian government would duly fulfill one their most fundamental duties – keep them safe.

    Our law enforcement and national security agencies work every day to uphold that promise, and I once again want to thank them for their work on this file.

    The Government of Canada takes the issue of foreign interference extremely seriously. We will continue to take all necessary actions to keep Canadians and those on Canadian soil safe.” 

    Jean-Sébastien Comeau
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc
    Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs
    343-574-8116
    Jean-Sebastien.Comeau@iga-aig.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah will interact with IPS probationers on Tuesday, 15 October 2024 in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah will interact with IPS probationers on Tuesday, 15 October 2024 in New Delhi

    The probationary officers will share their training experiences with the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation

    Young police officers have an important role in fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s resolve to make India a developed nation by 2047

    The probationary officers will also receive guidance from the Home Minister to deal with challenges related to the internal security of the country

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 4:09PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah will interact with the Indian Police Service (IPS) probationers of 76 RR (2023 Batch) in New Delhi on Tuesday, 15 October 2024. During the interaction, the probationary officers will share their training experiences with the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation.

    Young police officers have an important role to play in fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s resolve to make India a developed nation by 2047. During the meeting, the probationary officers will also receive guidance from the Home Minister to deal with challenges related to the internal security of the country.

    In the Indian Police Service 2023 batch, a total of 188 officer trainees including 54 women officers have completed the Basic Course Training Phase-1. After two weeks of training with various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Central Police Organisations (CPOs) in Delhi, the IPS trainee officers will undergo 29 weeks of district practical training in their respective cadres.

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    RK/VV/ASH/PS

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    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ensure that every citizen of India has access to safe, reliable and highly quality products and services: Shri Pralhad Joshi

    Source: Government of India

    Ensure that every citizen of India has access to safe, reliable and highly quality products and services: Shri Pralhad Joshi

    Enhancing public awareness about standards is essential for empowering the consumers: Shri Joshi

    One nation, one standard to ensure coherence and synergy among stakeholders working towards unified standards framework: Shri Joshi

    Bureau of Indian Standards commemorates World Standards Day

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 3:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution & New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi during his keynote address on World Standards Day in New Delhi today said that Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) should ensure that every citizen of India has access to safe, reliable and highly quality products and services. He said the well-being of consumers depend on the access to quality products while the growth and profitability of the industry is directly linked to the demand for these high-quality goods. This is a holistic approach acknowledging the interdependence of the consumers and producers fostering the robust quality ecosystem, he said.

    Shri Joshi emphasised PM Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for the country to be recognised for its best quality and for India to strive to make itself synonymous with the world standards. He said that the BIS should focus on quality as India’s economy is rapidly growing along with its contribution in global trade. He stressed that the BIS has a huge role to play in enriching economic growth, enhancing the ‘Made in India’ label and establishing Brand Bharat at a global level. 

    The Minister said that under the guidance of Hon’ble PM, the new BIS Act of 2016 will further strengthen ease of doing business and will provide a fillip to the ‘Make in India’ campaign. Praising the BIS for their relentless efforts in standardisation of products, Shri Joshi said that today more than 22,300 standards are in force and 94% of Indian standards are being harmonised with ISO and ISE standards. Shri Joshi mentioned that today 174 QCOs of 732 products have been notified for compulsory BIS certification, while till 2014 there were only 14 Quality Control Orders (QCOs) of 106 products.

    The Union Minister said that enhancing public awareness about standards is essential for empowering the consumers. The Minister said that the challenge for the government is to generate widespread interest and awareness among citizens in the standards programmes being undertaken by BIS. We have to set a standard where awareness is created among consumers to verify ISI and BIS certification before buying any product, that is the challenge for us, he said.

    Shri Joshi said that India, currently being the fifth largest economy in the world, should focus on improving standards as they serve as the backbone of the society, ensuring the safety, quality and trust in the product and the service. Standards work as catalysts for technical development, industrial growth and well-being of the society. They facilitate both domestic and international trade contributing both for economic growth and environmental sustainability, he noted.

    Shri Joshi said that for businesses, standards improve processes, systems, reduce waste and customer satisfaction supported through the compatibility with other markets while for consumers standards ensure reliability, consistency and safety of the products and interoperability.

    During his address, he also applauded other standard development organisations (SDOs) like Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) and Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) operating across sectors. He further stated that the concept of one nation and one standard becomes paramount ensuring the coherence and synergy among stakeholders working towards the unified standards framework.

    During the event, Shri Joshi launched BIS Care App 3.0. BIS CARE app is a one stop utility platform to empower consumers. It not only provides means to verify genuineness of BIS certified products and Hallmarked Jewelries, but it also facilitates lodging of complaints against sub-standard products and misuse of BIS Standard Marks. The brand-new upgrade of BIS CARE App to version 3.0 comes with a new set of features specifically aiming to increase visibility of relevant information for stakeholders pertaining to Standards and Certification.

    Shri Joshi also launched a film on the Standards Promotion Activities of BIS along with a Quality Quest Game for consumers to enhance their knowledge on quality. To mark World Standards Day, he released Reference Handbooks to disseminate information regarding important national standards and also comic books developed by BIS to be distributed to Standards Clubs across the country.

    The event was also graced by the Union Minister of State, Shri B.L. Verma, alongside Secretary of Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, Smt. Nidhi Khare, Additional Secretary, Shri Bharat Khera, Director General of BIS, Shri Pramod Kumar Tiwari. Key stakeholders from government, industry, and academia were also present on the occasion.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Nitin Gadkari Unveils ₹100 Commemorative Coin Honouring Spiritual Legacy of HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Ji’s Birth Centenary

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 10:04PM by PIB Delhi

    The Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, released a ₹100 commemorative coin in honour of HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Ji to mark her Birth Centenary celebrations. The event, organized at National Museum, was a heartfelt tribute to the immense contributions of HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Ji in promoting spirituality, inner peace, and self-realization globally.

     

    In his address, Shri Nitin Gadkari highlighted the significance of HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Ji’s teachings, emphasizing her lifelong dedication to uplifting humanity through the practice of Sahaja Yoga and her message of universal love. He mentioned that the release of this ₹100 commemorative coin is a symbol of appreciation for her profound impact on spiritual and cultural values.

    The ₹100 commemorative coin features the image of HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Ji, symbolizing her spiritual vision and the principles she embodied. It serves as a tribute to her enduring legacy and as a keepsake for those inspired by her teachings.

     

    NKK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: A New Sustainable, Efficient Amide Synthesis Process can Streamline Drug Production & Reduce Costs

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 3:42PM by PIB Delhi

    Scientists have found a green and efficient chemical process for preparing amides directly from alcohol using a Covalent Organic Framework (COF) based photocatalyst that can revolutionize industrial manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and synthetic materials.

    Amides are essential in chemistry, serving as key components in a wide range of organic compounds, including proteins, pharmaceuticals, and synthetic materials. Traditional amide synthesis methods often require high temperatures and harsh conditions, leading to significant environmental impact and inefficiency. These conventional approaches typically involve transition metal catalysts and generate substantial waste, prompting the need for more sustainable alternatives.

    Researchers from S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, an autonomous Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have introduced a novel method for synthesizing amides from alcohols using a Covalent Organic Framework (COF) as a photocatalyst under red light irradiation. This catalytic method can be helpful in chemical processes across various industries, including pharmaceutical manufacturing, materials science, and green chemistry – offering a more sustainable, efficient, and recyclable approach to creating vital chemical structures.

    The advantages of this method include mild reaction conditions, high efficiency, excellent recyclability, and the practicality of red-light activation, which is less harmful and penetrates more effectively, making it suitable for large-scale applications. Additionally, the tolerance of COFs to various functional groups broadens their applicability to challenging substrates, such as secondary amides, which are difficult to synthesize using traditional catalysts.

    The newly developed method uses the redox-active TTT-DHTD COF, which has been designed with high-density organic moieties, namely dithiophenedione, which is crucial for trapping photogenerated electrons (Scheme 1). This feature enables the COF to efficiently facilitate hydrogen atom abstraction reactions. The ability of the COF to absorb light across the visible spectrum, coupled with its narrow band gap, makes it particularly effective for generating excitons, which are essential for dehydrogenative coupling reactions. Upon red light absorption, the COF undergoes a photochemical reaction that generates excited states capable of initiating the dehydrogenation of alcohols, resulting in amide formation through coupling with amines. The process benefits from the stability and recyclability of COFs, making it a robust catalyst for repeated use.

    The implications of this research are significant. In the pharmaceutical industry, this method could streamline drug production, reduce costs, and eliminate metal contamination. In materials science, it could enable the development of new polymers and materials with amide linkages, expanding the range of materials for various applications. Further research may optimize the COF structure for even better performance and stability, and scaling up the process for industrial applications will be crucial to realizing its full potential.

    Scheme 1. Scheme of synthesis of amides using covalent organic frameworks as heterogeneous photocatalysts.

     

    The development of the TTT-DHTD COF-catalysed method for sustainable and green amide synthesis marks a significant advancement in chemical catalysis. By combining mild reaction conditions, efficient light activation, and excellent recyclability, this approach addresses many limitations of traditional methods and paves the way for more sustainable and efficient chemical processes. As research progresses, the impact of this breakthrough could extend across multiple industries, driving progress toward greener and more effective chemical synthesis.

    Publication link; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/anie.202410300

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Watauga County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Watauga County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Watauga County

    RALEIGH, N.C. –  A Disaster Recovery Center is opening Tuesday, Oct. 15 in Boone (Watauga County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Helene. 

    The Watauga County DRC is located at:  

    Appalachian Enterprise Center
    130 Poplar Grove Connector 
    Boone, N.C. 28607
    Open: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday

    A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more.  

    FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs, personal property losses or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses. 

    Centers are already open in Asheville, Lenoir, Marion and Sylva. To find those center locations go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. Additional recovery centers will be opening soon. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.   

    Homeowners and renters in 27 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.  

    It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app. You may also call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

    For the latest information about North Carolina recovery, visit Hurricane Helene | NC DPS or fema.gov/disaster/4827. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

    barbara.murien…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Houchin and Congressman Gottheimer Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Financial Abuse

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (Indiana 09)

    Washington, D.C. — Recently, Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-9) and Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) introduced the Task Force to End Financial Abuse Act, a bipartisan effort to address the growing issue of coerced debt and financial exploitation. The proposed task force aims to develop a comprehensive approach to combat financial abuse, protect victims, and prevent future incidents.

    Coerced debt occurs when one individual in an abusive relationship accumulates debt in their partner’s name without their knowledge or consent. This form of financial abuse can leave victims trapped with ruined credit, overwhelming debt, and limited financial options, even after escaping an abusive situation.

    “Addressing coerced debt requires a coordinated effort that goes beyond just tackling financial exploitation; it touches on abuse, consumer protection, and the ability to live free from financial control,” said Congresswoman Houchin. “The Task Force to End Financial Abuse Act will provide a roadmap to better understand the scope of this problem and develop real solutions to help victims break free and rebuild their lives.”

    “Far too many survivors are trapped in abusive relationships where their spouse or significant other has run up the bills on credit cards or auto loans – often without their knowledge. As a result, they face destroyed credit, substantial payment expectations, debt collection, and even, bankruptcy. Financial abuse is often the last chain that binds a survivor to their abuser. This new Interagency Task Force on Financial Abuse will bring together relevant federal agencies and external stakeholders to address this crisis head on,” said Congressman Gottheimer. “When we protect survivors from financial abuse, we don’t just restore their credit — we restore their freedom and their future.”

    The Task Force to End Financial Abuse Act represents a critical step toward breaking the cycle of financial control that affects so many victims of domestic abuse. Congresswoman Houchin and Congressman Gottheimer are committed to advancing this legislation, ensuring that survivors have the support they need and preventing future financial abuse.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Gaza: Medical care under fire UPCOMING EVENT Oct 15, 2024

    Source: Doctors Without Borders –

    Palestinian Territories 2023 © Pierre Fromentin/MSF

    UPCOMING EVENT

    Palestinian Territories 2023 © Pierre Fromentin/MSF

    October 15, 2024

    1:00PM-1:45PM ET

    Event type: Live online

    October 15, 2024 | 1:00PM-1:45PM ET

    Gaza: Medical care under fire

    We invite you to join us for a live online event on Tuesday, October 15, from 1:00-1:45 pm ET, with Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) aid workers reflecting on the catastrophic health impacts of the war in Gaza.

    MSF teams were already active providing medical care in Gaza when conflict escalated following the horrific attacks by Hamas on Israel on October 7. In response, the Israeli government launched a ferocious military offensive on Gaza. More than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed, tens of thousands more have been injured, and some 1.9 million people have been displaced–often multiple times. Much of the Gaza Strip has been reduced to rubble.

    MSF staff are providing urgent medical care even while facing the personal impacts of the war themselves–the deaths of loved ones, destruction of their homes, and constant dangers everywhere. Hospitals and health facilities have repeatedly come under fire or been forced to evacuate. The medical needs are exploding, including the spread of infectious diseases and the risk of starvation.

    Join us for a conversation with Dr. Javid Abdelmoneim, emergency physician and former medical team leader in Gaza, and Dr. Amber Alayyan, pediatrician and medical program manager for MSF in Palestine, Afghanistan and Haiti. Dr. Mohammed Abu Mughaisib, MSF deputy medical coordinator in Gaza, will share testimony directly from Khan Younis, and Avril Benoît, MSF USA chief executive officer, will moderate the live discussion. Together they will bear witness to this unfolding emergency and reflect on the medical challenges ahead.

    Meet the speakers

    Dr. Javid Abdelmoneim

    Dr. Javid Abdelmoneim is an emergency physician and was president of MSF UK from 2017-2021. Born and raised in the UK to Sudanese Iranian parents, Javid volunteered with MSF as a medical student, and later joined MSF as an aid worker for his first assignment to Iraq. Since then, he has worked for MSF in conflict zones, crises and disease outbreaks around the world. He has completed assignments in Ukraine, Haiti, Lebanon/Syria, South Sudan, Sierra Leone (for Ebola), and on the Mediterranean Sea on one of MSF’s search and rescue vessels. Most recently, he worked as an emergency medical team leader in Gaza. 

    Dr. Amber Alayyan

    Dr. Amber Alayyan is a pediatrician and international public health consultant with over 20 years of experience in health care in conflict and post-conflict zones particularly in the Middle East, as well as malnutrition and environmental health in conflict settings. She currently works as MSF’s medical program manager for Afghanistan, Palestine, and Haiti and previously managed medical programs for Peru, Syria, Lebanon, Iran, and Iraq. In her current role, she manages the medical operational strategy and activities in the West Bank and Gaza. These activities include burn and trauma surgery and multi-disciplinary pre/post-operative care, pediatric inpatient care, antibiotic resistance management, primary health care, mental health, and sexual and gender-based violence. Her work with MSF over the past 13 years includes assignments in the Central African Republic, Pakistan, Yemen, Iraq, Jordan/Syria, Turkey/Syria, Lebanon, Croatia and Greece.

    Dr. Mohammed Abu Mughaisib

    Dr. Mohammed (Abu Abed) Abu Mughaisib is the deputy medical coordinator for MSF’s operations in Palestine. He holds degrees in both medicine and mental health and has worked with MSF for nearly 23 years. Last fall, he was forced to flee his home in Gaza City, and was displaced multiple times thereafter. While his wife and children managed to cross the border into Egypt, Abu Abed continues to provide lifesaving care as a critical member of our project team in Palestine. 

    Avril Benoît

    Avril Benoît is the chief executive officer of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières in the United States (MSF USA). She has worked with the international medical humanitarian organization since 2006 in various operational management and executive leadership roles, most recently as the director of communications and development at MSF’s operational center in Geneva, a position she held from November 2015 until June 2019. Throughout her career with MSF, Avril has contributed to major movement-wide initiatives, including the global mobilization to end attacks on hospitals and health workers. She has worked as a country director and project coordinator for MSF, leading operations to provide aid to refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants in Mauritania, South Sudan, and South Africa. Avril’s strategic analysis and communications assignments have taken her to countries including Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Haiti, Iraq, Lebanon, Mexico, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sudan, Syria, and Ukraine. From 2006 to 2012, Avril served as director of communications with MSF Canada. Prior to joining MSF, Avril had a distinguished 20-year career as an award-winning journalist and broadcaster in Canada. She was a documentary producer and radio host with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), reporting from Kenya, Burundi, India, and Brazil on HIV stigma, rapid urbanization, sexual violence in conflict, and political inclusion of women, among numerous other assignments and topics. Recent articles: Surge of humanity needed for migrants and refugees  

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    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Unprecedented Storm Response by Local, Federal and State Resources Continues in Western North Carolina

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Unprecedented Storm Response by Local, Federal and State Resources Continues in Western North Carolina

    Unprecedented Storm Response by Local, Federal and State Resources Continues in Western North Carolina
    mseets

    An unprecedented response to damage caused by Hurricane Helene continues in Western North Carolina. State, federal and local response workers are working around the clock to surge assistance into the region.

    Law enforcement is working to ensure the safety of responders amid reports of threats and misinformation. FEMA officials remain in communities and will resume door-to-door operations to help people impacted by these storms recover as quickly as possible following reports of threats on the ground. Governor Roy Cooper has directed the Department of Public Safety to work with local law enforcement to identify specific threats and rumors and coordinate with FEMA and other partners to ensure the safety and security of all involved as this recovery effort continues.

    “State, federal and local response workers, including FEMA, are working around the clock to bring assistance to western North Carolina,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “We know that significant misinformation online contributes to threats against response workers on the ground, and the safety of responders must be a priority. At my direction, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety is helping partners like FEMA to coordinate with law enforcement to ensure their safety and security as they continue their important work.”

    North Carolina National Guard and Military Response

    Approximately 3,500 Soldiers and Airmen are working in Western North Carolina. Joint Task Force- North Carolina, the task force led by the North Carolina National Guard is made up of Soldiers and Airmen from 12 different states, two different XVIII Airborne Corps units from Ft. Liberty, a unit from Ft. Campbell’s 101st Airborne Division, and numerous civilian entities are working side-by-side to get the much-needed help to people in Western North Carolina.

    National Guard and military personnel are operating 11 aviation assets and more than 1,200 specialized vehicles in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is helping to assess water and wastewater plants and dams. Residents can track the status of the public water supply in their area through this website.

    FEMA Assistance

    More than $96 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been paid so far to Western North Carolina disaster survivors and more than 160,000 people have registered for Individual Assistance. Approximately 4,600 households are now housed in hotels through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance.

    1,000+ FEMA staff are in the state to help with the Western North Carolina relief effort. In addition to search and rescue and providing commodities, they are meeting with disaster survivors in shelters and neighborhoods to provide rapid access to relief resources. They can be identified by their FEMA logo apparel and federal government identification.

    The Major Disaster Declaration requested by Governor Cooper and granted by President Biden now includes 27 North Carolina counties (Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey) and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

    North Carolinians can apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app. FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.

    Help from Other States

    More than 1,500 responders from 38 state and local agencies have performed 135 missions supporting the response and recovery efforts through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). This includes public health nurses, emergency management teams supporting local governments, veterinarians, teams with search dogs and more.

    Beware of Misinformation

    North Carolina Emergency Management and local officials are cautioning the public about false Helene reports and misinformation being shared on social media. NCEM has launched a fact versus rumor response webpage to provide factual information in the wake of this storm. FEMA also has a rumor response webpage.

    Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

    Efforts continue to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, using both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. Food, water and commodity points of distribution are open throughout Western North Carolina. For information on these sites in your community, visit your local emergency management and local government social media and websites or visit ncdps.gov/Helene.

    Shelters

    A total of 13 shelters are open in Western North Carolina supporting over 560 people.

    Storm Damage Cleanup

    If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

    Power Outages

    Across Western North Carolina, approximately 19,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than 1 million. Overall power outage numbers will fluctuate up and down as power crews temporarily take circuits or substations offline to make repairs and restore additional customers.

    Road Closures

    Travel remains dangerous, with hundreds of roads closed. Many of these roads are primary routes connecting the region.

    NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for those traveling in the region. North Carolinians can visit DriveNC.Gov for the latest roadway conditions. NCDOT currently has approximately 2,100 employees and 1,100 pieces of equipment working on approximately 6,700 damaged road sites.

    Fatalities

    Ninety-five storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We expect that this number will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911.

    Volunteers and Donations

    Due to dangerous road conditions and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is difficult. Consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:

    • If you would like to donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, visit nc.gov/donate. Donations will help to support local nonprofits working on the ground.
    • For information on volunteer opportunities, please visit nc.gov/volunteernc

    Additional Assistance

    There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

    If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

    For general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

    If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

    ###

    Oct 14, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SPEECH BY DR JANIL PUTHUCHEARY, SENIOR MINISTER OF STATE, MINISTRY OF DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT AND INFORMATION AND MINISTRY OF HEALTH, AT THE DUKE-NUS CENTRE OF REGULATORY EXCELLENCE’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE 2024, 14 OCTOBER 2024

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

          Good morning everybody. Thank you for inviting me to join you here today. It’s great to be back here at the Academia. It is my pleasure to join you for the 10th anniversary celebration of the Duke-NUS Centre of Regulatory Excellence (CoRE).

    2.     One of the advantages of having been to many gatherings and meetings, such as scientific meetings, academic meetings, government regulatory meetings, you start to have the ability to have a feel for the community. You have a little bit of a sense, if this is one of those places where tech startups are exchanging cards because everyone’s trying to introduce themselves. Or is this community of practice which has been together with deep respect, and a deep understanding of each other’s contributions in the academic, scientific, and policy areas. I was asking Professor John Lim earlier this morning: “How long have you all been together?” Because there is a palpable sense of a community of practice, of professionals with deep expertise who have met each other over many meals, over many years, and flown not just halfway around the world, but all the way around the world, to be together. I had that sense of privilege walking in this morning that this is a community of professionals who have been working together for many years and understanding the importance of the work that you do, the effect that you will have on our healthcare systems.

    3.     CoRE was established as an academic centre at Duke-NUS Medical School with support from the Singapore Ministry of Health (MOH), Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and Economic Development Board (EDB) to promote regulatory capacity development and innovation in Southeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific. Officially inaugurated in November 2014, this is the first Centre in the region that focuses on promoting regulatory excellence for healthcare regulators and industry. A panel of international regulatory experts forms the CoRE Advisory Board that oversees the governance of the Centre, many of whom are current or former chief officials of their respective regulatory agencies. Some of them in the audience today.

    4.     Over the past decade, CoRE has become an important player in Singapore’s healthcare landscape. You have made significant strides in advancing regulatory science, not only in Singapore but also across ASEAN and the Asia-Pacific. Through your capacity building, thinktank and advisory initiatives, CoRE has become a trusted partner in a wide collaborative network to actively coordinate and strengthen regulatory systems, comprising international and regional regulatory authorities, industry, non-governmental organisations and academic institutions.

    5.     The Centre also supports MOH and HSA in building up the healthcare regulatory ecosystem, and more recently, advocating the convergence of products and services regulation to enhance healthcare systems’ efficiency. By bringing together key stakeholders and fostering collaboration among healthcare regulators, CoRE has created a platform for the exchange of knowledge and best practices.

    Future of Health – Digitalisation and Precision Medicine
    6.     As we celebrate these achievements, and there are many, we must also anticipate the challenges on the horizon. Singapore’s healthcare landscape is undergoing fundamental changes, driven by demographic shifts and our evolving healthcare needs. To meet these changes, we are embracing digital health and precision medicine technologies. We will innovate to improve population health and ensure the sustainability of our healthcare system. This shift in our healthcare regulations will also be needed to keep pace with innovation and to continue our commitment to patient safety and welfare. Our goal is to create a regulatory framework that acts as a catalyst for progress, not a barrier to it.
    7.     The challenges, whether it’s our demographic shifts, evolving needs, the tensions and trade-offs within our approach to what we do within the regulatory space, underscores the need for regulators to be innovative and also prudent. We want to maximise the benefits of new technologies and safeguard against the risks. HSA already regulates Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Medical Devices and MOH has issued the national AI in Healthcare guidelines. This is a space where you can see that there are potential significant transformative benefits just around the corner, but there are already extant risks that we need to safeguard against, to shore up public trust and to make sure these tools are deployed in the clinical spaces. And so we publish these guidelines and they lay out good practices for AI developers and influencers, and we’re revising this to account for newer technologies such as generative AI. We intend to provide unified guidance for AI developers, service implementers and healthcare professionals on the safe development of AI in healthcare.
    8.     With increasing use of precision medicine technologies, we may encounter ethical dilemmas in the potential misuse of genetic test information, for example, in insurance underwriting. To address this, MOH has worked with the Life Insurance Association to put in place a Moratorium on Genetic Testing and Insurance. It sets out specific protections over the use and disclosure of genetic test results, to prevent Singaporeans from being deterred from undergoing genetic testing which can be vital and useful for early detection, prevention and management of genetic conditions.

    9      The challenges that I described transcend borders and they make international collaboration amongst regulators essential. Through exchanging best practices and developing partnerships for regulatory harmonisation, we can collectively have regulatory frameworks that are nimble, forward looking, and adaptable to rapid technological advancements.

    Nimble and Forward-Thinking Regulatory Framework

    10      MOH collaborates with agencies such as the European Partnership for Supervisory Organisations in Health Services and Social Care (EPSO) and HealthAI. We also collaborate with CoRE to strengthen training in healthcare services regulations with ASEAN countries.

    11      CoRE is focused on advancing regulatory science and policy in healthcare, both domestically and regionally, through capacity building, thought leadership and fostering collaboration.

    12      To grow domestic capability in healthcare regulation, CoRE has launched key educational initiatives, including the flagship Graduate Certificate programme in health products regulation covering pharmaceutical and medical technology regulations. It also supports regional capacity building through the Asian Development Bank Projects in the Greater Mekong Subregion. By identifying regulatory gaps and conducting in-country capacity-building workshops in Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Indonesia, CoRE is helping to shape more effective regulatory environments.

    13       CoRE also facilitates joint initiatives research projects and roundtables for collaboration between academia, industry and international partners. One example is the CoRE Standards Development Organisation, set up in partnership with Enterprise Singapore, which manages over 60 Singapore Standards and Technical References in the biomedical and healthcare domains, ensuring alignment with global standards.

    CoRE’s Role in the Next Decade

    14       Regulatory innovation will play a part to shape the future of biomedical science and healthcare and delivery. The diverse topics covered at this conference – ranging from AI and digital health to healthy ageing and disease prevention – highlight the complexity of the challenges that face us. Working together, we can develop regulations that are robust, forward-looking and conducive to both access and innovation.

    15       We have with us regulators from around the world, the Asia-Pacific region and Africa, alongside experts from the Ministry’s Regulatory Advisory Panel. Surely, with this brain trust that you have brought together, and the concentration of capability, expertise and experience, this professional community that has been working together to develop these big relationships, can effectively address these challenges and shape the future of healthcare regulation. Our partnerships will shape the next chapter of healthcare regulation, and so it’s my pleasure to declare this conference open.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bel Announces Appointment of Umasankar (‘Uma”) Pingali as Global Head of Sales and Marketing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WEST ORANGE, N.J., Oct. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bel Fuse Inc. (“Bel,” or, “the Company”) (Nasdaq:BELFA and Nasdaq:BELFB), today announced its appointment of Uma Pingali as Global Head of Sales and Marketing, a newly created role. With over 30 years of management experience in global sales, marketing, business development within the electronic industry, Uma is uniquely positioned to lead and accelerate Bel’s sales and marketing organizations. His experience with integrating various sales teams that have joined via acquisitions will be very helpful for Bel with our history of acquisitions.

    Uma started his career in India and has lived and led sales organizations there and in Singapore, China, Hong Kong and the U.S. In his most recent role as President of Global Sales at Farnell, based in Chicago, Uma managed a team of 600+ people in driving a $1.6 billion global sales organization.

    Dan Bernstein, President and CEO, said, “Uma is the perfect fit for the role, given his extensive global experience in the electronics industry. He will be responsible for creating and executing strategies that drive growth beyond current trends, identifying areas for improvement, challenging existing processes, and implementing innovative solutions to optimize sales performance. We are very much looking forward to the contributions that Uma will bring to Bel in further positioning the company for long-term success.”

    About Bel

    Bel (www.belfuse.com) designs, manufactures and markets a broad array of products that power, protect and connect electronic circuits. These products are primarily used in the networking, telecommunications, computing, general industrial, high-speed data transmission, military, commercial aerospace, transportation and eMobility industries. Bel’s portfolio of products also finds application in the automotive, medical, broadcasting and consumer electronics markets. Bel’s product groups include Magnetic Solutions (integrated connector modules, power transformers, power inductors and discrete components), Power Solutions and Protection (front-end, board-mount and industrial power products, module products and circuit protection), and Connectivity Solutions (expanded beam fiber optic, copper-based, RF and RJ connectors and cable assemblies). The Company operates facilities around the world.

    Company Contact:

    Lynn Hutkin
    Vice President of Financial Reporting & Investor Relations
    ir@belf.com

    Investor Contact:

    Three Part Advisors
    Jean Marie Young, Managing Director or Steven Hooser, Partner
    631-418-4339
    jyoung@threepa.com; shooser@threepa.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Foreign Minister to visit Thailand, attend Indonesian Presidential inauguration

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters is travelling this week to Bangkok for talks with his Thai counterpart, and to Jakarta to attend the inauguration of Indonesia’s next President, Prabowo Subianto.  

      

    “New Zealand is committed to our Comprehensive Partnership with Indonesia, and our shared ties as democracies in the Indo-Pacific region,” Mr Peters says. 

      

    “It is important we show our strong support for the transition of power in the world’s third largest democracy.” 

      

    Mr Peters will also express New Zealand’s appreciation for Indonesia’s assistance in securing the recent release of New Zealand pilot Philip Mehrtens, who was held hostage in Papua, Indonesia. 

      

    Before travelling to Indonesia, Mr Peters will visit Thailand to meet with his Foreign Minister counterpart to advance discussions on lifting the Thai-New Zealand bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026.  

      

    “Our engagement with Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa will underline the importance we place on our partnership with Thailand,” Mr Peters says.   

      

    “The Coalition Government is seriously focused on boosting New Zealand’s engagement with Southeast Asia. Since taking office we have been backing up our words with action.  

     

    “Thailand will be the seventh member of ASEAN that we will have visited this year.”     

     

    While in Bangkok, Mr Peters will engage with key Thai political and business leaders and New Zealand alumni and meet with New Zealand businesses active in Thailand. 

      

    Mr Peters will return to New Zealand on 21 October. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Takes New Actions to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab  Hate

    Source: The White House

    Over the past year, the Biden-Harris Administration has continued to take action to fight hatred and violence against Muslim and Arab communities. Members of these communities, including Palestinian Americans, have been murdered or wounded in hate-fueled attacks; shot and subjected to other assaults as they simply walked down streets; bullied at schools, including by having their religious head coverings ripped off; and denied jobs, harassed, or demoted at work merely because of their faith or ethnicity.

    President Biden and Vice President Harris are leading efforts to bring about much-needed change and have repeatedly condemned such violence, discrimination, and bias. These efforts are part of a larger Administration initiative to counter hate in all its forms, to keep every community safe, to promote equal justice, and to afford all Americans a fair shot at success. For generations, Muslim and Arab Americans have contributed to the enrichment and prosperity of our nation through their public, military, and community service, in addition to many other invaluable contributions. And like all Americans, they are entitled to the promise and opportunities of our great nation.

    Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is highlighting some actions taken as part of its forthcoming National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Hatred Against Arabs in the United States, including important steps to address daily concerns regarding safety and discrimination, as well as issues related to travel. The Administration will continue to lead a whole-of-government and a whole-of society effort to counter hate.

    Completed executive branch actions that are part of the forthcoming Strategy include:

    Improving Safety and Security

    • The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) have completed an unclassified assessment on violent threats facing Muslim and Arab communities in the United States. The assessment will be published this week, and is the first of what will be an annual assessment by these agencies regarding threats facing these communities.
    • Since 2021, DOJ has awarded over $100 million in grants to law enforcement and prosecution agencies, community-based organizations, and civil rights groups to address hate crimes through outreach, investigations, prosecutions, community awareness and preparedness, reporting, hotlines, and victim services. This figure includes nearly $30 million in grants announced last month.
    • DOJ continues to support law enforcement agencies’ transition to the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS). Beginning in January 2021, NIBRS became the national standard for law enforcement crime data reporting in the United States and the transition to NIBRS represented a significant improvement in how reported crime is measured and estimated by the federal government. Since 2015, DOJ’s Bureau of Justice Assistance and the FBI have provided more than $150 million to law enforcement agencies and state Uniform Crime Programs to support their transitions to NIBRS.
    • The DOJ Civil Rights Division continues to prosecute Islamophobic and other hate crimes, including hate crimes directed at students on campus. Last week, a New Jersey man pleaded guilty to a federal hate crime for breaking into the Center for Islamic Life at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, during the Eid-al-Fitr holiday and damaging and destroying religious artifacts because of the Islamic faith of those associated with the facility.
    • DOJ’s United Against Hate initiative, led by all 94 United States Attorneys’ Offices (USAOs), combats unlawful acts of hate by teaching community members how to identify, report, and help prevent hate crimes and by building trust between law enforcement and communities. To date, at least 45 USAOs have engaged directly with Muslim communities.
    • Attorney General Garand directed the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and all 94 USAOs across the country to work with local law enforcement and community leaders to protect communities from hate-fueled violence in the last year and recently reaffirmed DOJ’s commitment to combat the disturbing rise in the volume and frequency of threats against Muslim, Arab, and Palestinian as well as Jewish communities here in the United States. DOJ created a webpage aimed at raising awareness of resources for addressing these threats, and it will continue to publicize its efforts.
    • During the September 2024 Protecting Places of Worship Week of Action, the DHS Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships and White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships hosted workshops to encourage partnerships to take collective action against hate-based violence, including Islamophobic violence and hate crimes against Arabs. This emphasis included promotion of a guide to applying for Nonprofit Security Grant Program funding.
    • DHS has announced that it will distribute $210 million in Nonprofit Security Grant Program funds as the second tranche of additional funding the Biden-Harris Administration secured to protect faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations against targeted attacks. This funding opportunity will be made available in late October.

    Tackling Discrimination and Bias

    • The U.S. Office of Personnel Management has published the Workplace Rights Federal Toolkit, a compilation of resources for employees of the federal government regarding their workplace rights, including information about their rights to nondiscrimination and religious accommodation.
    • The Department of Labor sent a letter to American Job Centers and other public workforce entities reminding them about their legal obligations to enforce prohibitions on discrimination based on actual or perceived religion, shared ancestry, or ethnic characteristics — including Islamophobia, Antisemitism, and related forms of discrimination – in federally funded activities and programs. The letter also included a fact sheet with examples of these forms of discrimination in the workforce development system.
    • DOJ issued a fact sheet titled Confronting Discrimination Based on Religion in Schools: A Resource for Students and Families, which discusses scenarios involving students’ rights to pray and wear religious attire in schools.
    • ED’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued a Fact Sheet on Harassment based on Race, Color, or National Origin on School Campuses, reminding schools of their federal civil rights obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) to take prompt and effective action to respond to harassment that creates a hostile environment. ED OCR continues to investigate and resolve claims of shared ancestry discrimination under Title VI at schools. For example, ED OCR recently entered into a resolution agreement with the Ann Arbor Public Schools in Michigan to address concerns about a hostile environment for students based on shared Muslim/Arab Palestinian ancestry.
    • The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued a letter to the over 200 federally-funded Fair Housing Initiatives Programs and Fair Housing Assistance Programs on how to identify and counter Islamophobia, Antisemitism, and related forms of bias and discrimination in housing. Also, HUD created a webpage on protections against housing discrimination on the basis of religion, shared ancestry, or ethnic characteristics, which include the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
    • The Department of Transportation (DOT) provided a number of resources related to travelers’ rights and opportunities to file a complaint when there may be an instance of discrimination by airlines or recipients of federal funding, including discrimination on the basis of religion or national origin. The Passengers’ Right to Fly Free from Discrimination is a guide designed to explain DOT’s role in protecting aviation passengers from unlawful discrimination. Similarly, the Guidance for Airline Personnel on Non-discrimination in Air Travel assists airline personnel in understanding their legal obligations not to discriminate against passengers. For example, this guidance notes that it is impermissible to remove a passenger from a flight simply because he is holding a book that appears to be a Quran.
    • DOJ sent a letter to state, county, and municipal officials reminding them of the obligation of public officials to comply with the land use provisions of the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) and to inform them about documents issued by DOJ that may be of assistance to them in applying this federal civil rights law. RLUIPA is a federal law that protects people and religious institutions from discriminatory and overly burdensome land use regulations. For example, DOJ recently filed a complaint and consent decree in United States v. Hendricks County, settling allegations that Hendricks County violated RLUIPA and the Fair Housing Act by twice unlawfully denying zoning approval to an Islamic educational organization that sought to develop a religious seminary, school, and housing on land in Hendricks County.
    • Some Americans, including many Muslims and Arabs, have documented how financial institutions use de-risking, a practice to terminate or restrict business relationships indiscriminately with broad categories of clients rather than analyzing and managing the risks of clients in a targeted manner. To help address de-risking, the U.S. Treasury Department has published its National De-Risking Strategy. The Treasury Department also has issued a proposed rule to improve the effectiveness of how banks manage potential risks associated with anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism in a risk-based manner, while avoiding one-size-fits-all approaches that can lead to financial institutions declining to provide financial services to entire categories of customers.

    Addressing Issues Related to Travel

    • On January 20, 2021, President Biden rescinded the previous administration’s discriminatory Muslim Ban, which included many Arab countries and was inconsistent with our nation’s foundation of religious freedom for all. At President Biden’s direction, the U.S. Department of State conducted a review of visa applications and has taken various corrective actions to process applications that were impacted by the prior travel ban, including reconsidering previously denied applications and implementing a one-time fee credit for certain applicants.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Sir Keir Starmer

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, discussed recent developments related to a targeted campaign against Canadian citizens by agents linked to the Government of India.

    The leaders discussed the need to ensure the safety and security of their citizens and the importance of upholding and respecting the rule of law. Prime Minister Trudeau underscored Canada’s continued interest in co-operation with India to address this serious matter.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Starmer agreed to remain in close and regular contact.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Residents in Western North Carolina Can Apply for Help Buying Food Following Hurricane Helene

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Residents in Western North Carolina Can Apply for Help Buying Food Following Hurricane Helene

    Residents in Western North Carolina Can Apply for Help Buying Food Following Hurricane Helene
    hejones1

    Residents in 25 western counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians impacted by Hurricane Helene can apply for help buying food through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) which will begin on Oct. 18, 2024, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced today. D-SNAP is open to individuals and households not currently receiving Food and Nutrition Services benefits who were impacted by Hurricane Helene. NCDHHS estimates more than 150,000 people will apply for up to $120 million in D-SNAP benefits. 

    “We are making up to $120 million available to more than 150,000 individuals to buy food for their families — an essential step on the road to recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Helene,” said N.C. Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. “We are committed to using every tool to support the recovery of our friends, families, and fellow North Carolinians in western NC — now and for the long haul.”

    NCDHHS received federal approval to begin phase one of the program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture beginning on Oct. 18, 2024. People can start applying for assistance three days before the program starts during online pre-registration beginning Oct. 15 and will have seven days from the start of the program to apply. The application period will close on Oct. 24, 2024.

    Eligible households will be notified within three days of completing the application and receive a one-time benefit on a special debit card (called an Electronic Benefits Transfer, or EBT card) to help buy food. The exact amount will depend on household size, income and disaster losses. While there are income eligibility standards, a number of considerations are taken into account. Individuals above these limits may still be eligible dependent on disaster expenses, so we encourage everyone who needs support to purchase food to begin their application by calling the DSNAP Virtual Call Center at 1-844-453-1117.

    The benefits are good for up to nine months. Benefit cards will be available for pick up at the D-SNAP locations in each county or you can get the EBT card mailed to you overnight at the address you specify on your application.

    To be eligible, a person must: 

    • Live in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey Counties.
    • Be a member of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians living in zip code 28719
    • Have suffered losses/damages related to Hurricane Helene, such as damage to property or loss of income.
    • Have proof of identity and proof of residency (if available).
    • Have income and resources below certain levels.
    • Not currently be receiving benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) program. People receiving FNS can also get extra help buying food, but do not need to fill out a D-SNAP application. They can get more information about how to get the extra help on the FNS webpage. 

    Residents are encouraged to apply for D-SNAP by phone, when possible, by calling the D-SNAP call center at 1-844-453-1117. The D-SNAP call center will be open at the following hours: 

    • Weekdays (Friday, Oct. 18; Monday, Oct. 21; Tuesday, Oct. 22; Wednesday, Oct. 23; and Thursday, Oct. 24) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    • Saturday, Oct. 19, and Sunday, Oct. 20 from 9 a.m. to noon.

    Residents are encouraged to apply for D-SNAP by phone on their assigned day by last name but will not be turned away if they apply any time during the application period.

    • Oct. 18 – A-G
    • Oct. 19 – H-M
    • Oct. 20 – N-S
    • Oct. 21 – T-Z
    • Oct. 22 – Open to all
    • Oct. 23 – Open to all
    • Oct. 24 – Open to all

    Residents can also use the online ePASS Pre-Registration Tool, which will open on Tuesday, Oct. 15 and close on Thursday, Oct. 24. Once the pre-registration is completed, applicants will be issued a confirmation number and will need to call 1-844-453-1117 between Oct. 18 and Oct. 24 to complete the interview part of the application. 

    Residents can also apply for D-SNAP in-person at any of the following locations listed below. The D-SNAP sites listed below will be open at the following hours: 

    • Weekdays (Friday, Oct. 18; Monday, Oct. 21; Tuesday, Oct. 22; Wednesday, Oct. 23; and Thursday, Oct. 24) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    • Saturday, Oct. 19, and Sunday, Oct. 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    Alexander County Department of Social Services
    Alexander County DSS Office
    604 7th St. SW 
    Taylorsville, NC 28681

    Alleghany County
    Emerson Black Building
    1375 US Hwy 21 N
    Sparta, NC 28675

    Ashe County Department of Social Services
    Main Ashe DSS Office 
    150 Government Circle, Suite 1400
    Jefferson, NC  28640

    Avery County
    Avery County Library (Basement)
    150 Library Road 
    Newland, NC 28657

    Buncombe County Department of Social Services
    Main Buncombe County DSS Office
    40 Coxe Ave. 
    Asheville, NC, 28801

    Burke County Department of Social Services 
    Burke County DSS Office
    700 E Parker Road 
    Morganton, NC 28655

    Caldwell County  
    Former Walgreens Building
    621 Harper Ave.
    Lenoir, NC 28645

    Catawba County Department of Social Services 
    Catawba County DSS Office
    3030 11th Ave Drive 
    Hickory, NC 28602

    Clay County Department of Social Services 
    Clay County DSS Office
    119 Courthouse Drive 
    Hayesville, NC 28904

    Cleveland County
    Cleveland County Schools Bus Garage
    300 Kemper Road
    Shelby, NC 28152

    Gaston County Department of Social Services 
    Main Gaston County DSS Office
    330 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way
    Gastonia, NC 28052

    Haywood County
    Haywood County DSS Office
    157 Paragon Pkwy #300
    Clyde, NC 28721

    Henderson County
    Living Waters Baptist Church
    1284 Sugarloaf Road 
    Hendersonville, NC 28792

    Jackson County
    Jackson County DSS Office
    15 Griffin St. 
    Sylva, NC 28779

    Lincoln County Department of Social Services 
    Lincoln County DSS Office
    1136 East Main St.
    Lincolnton, NC 28092

    Macon County Department of Social Services 
    183 Holly Springs Plaza
    Franklin, NC 28734

    Madison County Department of Social Services 
    Madison DSS Office
    5707 US Hwy 25-70, Suite 1
    Marshall, NC 28753

    McDowell County
    McDowell County YMCA Gym: Bottom Level
    348 Grace Corpening Drive
    Marion, North Carolina 28752

    Mitchell County Department of Social Services 
    Mitchel County DSS Office
    347 Longview Drive
    Bakersville, NC 28705

    Polk County Department of Social Services 
    231 Wolverine Trail
    Mill Spring, NC 28756

    Rutherford County Department of Social Services 
    Isothermal Community College (ICC) Foundation Performing Arts Center 
    286 ICC Loop Road 
    Spindale, NC 288160

    Transylvania County Library
    212 South Gaston St., “Rogow Room” 
    Brevard, NC 28712

    Watauga County Department of Social Services 
    Watauga County DSS Office 
    132 Poplar Grove Connector, Suite C
    Boone, NC 28607

    Wilkes County Department of Social Services 
    Wilkes County DSS Office
    304 College St.
    Wilkesboro, NC 28697

    Yancey County  
    Burnsville Town Center
    6 South Main St.
    Burnsville, NC 28714

    Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Residing in 28719:

    Qualla Boundary
    Qualla Boundary
    1526 Acquoni Road
    Cherokee, NC

    Jackson
    Jackson County DSS Office
    15 Griffin St.  
    Sylva, NC 28779 

    While people in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey Counties and members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians living in 28719 are encouraged to apply in their county of residence, they can also apply in person at any of the counties approved to implement D-SNAP. NCDHHS will post information on locations and hours of the sites in each county at www.ncdhhs.gov/dsnap. 

    Please know there may be long wait times. County officials will do everything they can to process applications as quickly as possible.

    People who may have a disability or are physically unable to go in-person appling for help can complete this form in English or Spanish and send an authorized representative in their place.

    NCDHHS is working with USDA on adding two additional counties through phase two of the D-SNAP implementation at a later date. Once approved, NCDHHS will share additional information.

    For information regarding Hurricane Helene and additional resources and flexibilities in place, please go to www.ncdps.gov/Helene and www.ncdhhs.gov/helene.

    ###

    In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), religious creed, disability, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

    Program information may be made available in languages other than English.  Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the agency (state or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

    To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to:

    1. mail: 
      Food and Nutrition Service, USDA
      1320 Braddock Place, Room 334
      Alexandria, VA 22314; or
    2. fax:
      (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or
    3. email:
      FNSCIVILRIGHTSCOMPLAINTS@usda.gov

    This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

    Los habitantes de 25 condados del oeste y la Banda Oriental de Indios Cherokee afectados por el huracán Helene pueden solicitar ayuda para comprar alimentos a través del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria para Desastres (D-SNAP, por sus siglas en inglés) que comenzará el 18 de octubre de 2024, anunció hoy el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte (NCDHHS, por sus siglas en inglés). D-SNAP está abierto a personas y hogares que actualmente no reciben beneficios de Servicios de Alimentación y Nutrición y que se vieron afectados por el huracán Helene. El NCDHHS estima que más de 150,000 personas solicitarán hasta $120 millones de dólares en beneficios de D-SNAP.

    “Haremos $120 millones de dólares disponibles a más de 150,000 individuos para comprar comida para sus familias — un paso esencial en el camino a la recuperación de la devastación del huracán Helene”, dijo el secretario de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, Kody H. Kinsley. “Estamos comprometidos a apoyar la salud y el bienestar de las personas afectadas en todos los rincones del oeste de Carolina del Norte, ahora y a largo plazo”.

    El NCDHHS recibió la aprobación federal para comenzar la fase uno del programa del Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos a partir del 18 de octubre de 2024. Las personas pueden comenzar a solicitar asistencia tres días antes del inicio del programa durante la preinscripción en línea a partir del 15 de octubre y tendrán siete días desde el inicio del programa para aplicar. El plazo de la aplicación se cerrará el 24 de octubre de 2024.

    Los hogares elegibles serán notificados dentro de los tres días posteriores a completar la solicitud y recibirán un beneficio único en una tarjeta de débito especial (llamada transferencia electrónica de beneficios, o tarjeta EBT, por sus siglas en inglés) para ayudar a comprar alimentos. La cantidad exacta dependerá del tamaño del hogar, los ingresos y las pérdidas por desastres. Aunque existen requisitos de ingresos, se tomarán en cuenta varias consideraciones. Los individuos con límites de ingreso superiores podrían calificar dependiendo de sus gastos debido al desastre, así que animamos a todos los que necesiten ayuda para comprar alimentos a comenzar la aplicación por medio de llamar al centro de llamadas virtuales de D-SNAP al 1-844-453-1117.

    Los beneficios son válidos hasta por nueve meses. Las tarjetas de beneficios estarán disponibles para recogerse en las ubicaciones de D-SNAP en cada condado o puede recibir la tarjeta EBT por correo durante la noche en la dirección que especifique en su aplicación.

    Para ser elegible, una persona debe: 

    • Vivir en los condados de Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transilvania, Watauga, Wilkes y Yancey.
    • Ser miembro de la Banda del Este de los indios Cherokee que viven en el código postal 28719.
    • Haber sufrido pérdidas o daños relacionados con el huracán Helene, como daños a la propiedad o pérdida de ingresos.
    • Tener prueba de identidad y prueba de domicilio (si está disponible).
    • Tener ingresos y recursos por debajo de ciertos niveles.
    • Actualmente no está recibiendo beneficios a través del programa de Servicios de Alimentos y Nutrición (FNS, por sus siglas en inglés). Las personas que reciben FNS también pueden obtener ayuda adicional para comprar alimentos, pero no necesitan completar una aplicación para D-SNAP. Puede obtener más información sobre cómo obtener ayuda adicional en la página web de FNS. 

    Se alienta a los habitantes a solicitar D-SNAP por teléfono, cuando sea posible, llamando al centro de llamadas de D-SNAP al 1-844-453-1117. El centro de llamadas de D-SNAP estará abierto las siguientes horas: 

    • Días laborables (viernes 18 de octubre , lunes 21 de octubre, martes 22 de octubre , miércoles 23 de octubre y jueves 24 de octubre ), a partir de las 8 de la mañana hasta las 4 de la tarde.
    • Sábado 19 de octubre y domingo 20 de octubre, a partir de las 9 de la mañana hasta el mediodía.

    Se alienta a los habitantes a solicitar D-SNAP por teléfono en su día asignado según la primera letra de su apellido, pero no serán rechazados si solicitan en cualquier momento durante el período de solicitud.

    • Octubre 18: A-G
    • Octubre 19: H-M     
    • Octubre 20: N-S
    • Octubre 21: T-Z
    • Octubre 22: Abierto para todos
    • Octubre 23: Abierto para todos
    • Octubre 24: Abierto para todos 

    Los habitantes también pueden utilizar la herramienta de preinscripción en línea ePASS, que se abrirá el martes 15 de octubre cerrará el martes 22 de octubre . Una vez que se complete la preinscripción, a los aplicantes se les emitirá un número de confirmación y deberán llamar entre el 18 y el 24 de octubre al 1-844-453-1117 para completar la entrevista que es parte de la solicitud.

    Los habitantes también pueden aplicar para D-SNAP en persona en cualquiera de los siguientes lugares que se enumeran a continuación. Los sitios D-SNAP que se enumeran a continuación estarán abiertos a las siguientes horas: 

    • Días laborables (viernes 18 de octubre , lunes 21 de octubre, , martes 22 de octubre , miércoles 23 de octubre y jueves 24 de octubre ), a partir de las 8 de la mañana hasta las 4 de la tarde.
    • Sábado 19 de octubre y domingo 20 de octubre, a partir de las 9 de la mañana a las 2 p.m.

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Alexander
    Oficina del DSS del condado Alexander
    604 7th St. SW 
    Taylorsville, NC 28681

    Condado Alleghany
    Edificio Emerson Black
    1375 US Hwy 21 N
    Sparta, NC 28675

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Ashe
    Oficina principal del DSS de Ashe 
    150 Government Circle, Suite 1400
    Jefferson, NC  28640

    Condado Avery
    Biblioteca del condado Avery (sótano)
    150 Library Road 
    Newland, NC 28657

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Buncombe
    Oficina principal del DSS del condado Buncombe
    40 Coxe Ave. 
    Asheville, NC 28801

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Burke 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Burke
    700 E Parker Road 
    Morganton, NC 28655

    Condado Caldwell
    El edificio que anteriormente era un Walgreens
    621 Harper Ave.
    Lenoir, NC 28645

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Catawba 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Catawba
    3030 11th Ave Drive 
    Hickory, NC 28602

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Clay 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Clay
    119 Courthouse Drive 
    Hayesville, NC 28904

    Condado Cleveland
    Estacionamiento de autobuses de las escuelas del condado Cleveland
    300 Kemper Road
    Shelby, NC 28152

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Gaston 
    Oficina principal del DSS del condado Gaston
    330 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way
    Gastonia, NC 28052

    Condado Haywood
    Oficina del DSS del condado Haywood
    157 Paragon Pkwy #300
    Clyde, NC 28721

    Condado Henderson
    Iglesia Bautista Living Waters
    1284 Sugarloaf Road 
    Hendersonville, NC 28792

    Condado Jackson
    Oficina del DSS del condado Jackson
    15 Griffin St. 
    Sylva, NC 28779

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Lincoln 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Lincoln
    1136 East Main St.
    Lincolnton, NC 28092

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Macon 
    183 Holly Springs Plaza
    Franklin, NC 28734

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Madison 
    Oficina del DSS de Madison
    5707 US Hwy 25-70, Suite 1
    Marshall, NC 28753

    Condado McDowell 
    Gimnasio de la YMCA del condado McDowell (Planta baja)
    348 Grace Corpening Drive
    Marion, North Carolina 28752

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Mitchell 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Mitchel
    347 Longview Drive
    Bakersville, NC 28705

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Polk 
    231 Wolverine Trail
    Mill Spring, NC 28756

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Rutherford 
    Centro de Artes Escénicas de la Fundación del Colegio Comunitario Isothermal 
    (ICC – Foundation Performing Arts Center) 
    286 ICC Loop Road 
    Spindale, NC 288160

    Biblioteca del condado Transilvania
    212 South Gaston St., “Cuarto Rogow” 
    Brevard, NC 28712

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Watauga 
    Oficina del DSS del Condado Watauga 
    132 Poplar Grove Connector, Suite C
    Boone, NC 28607

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Wilkes 
    Oficina del DSS del condado Wilkes
    304 College St.
    Wilkesboro, NC 28697

    Departamento de Servicios Sociales del condado Yancey 
    Centro de Burnsville (Burnsville Town Center)
    6 South Main Street
    Burnsville, NC 28714

    Banda Oriental de Indios Cherokee habitantes del código postal 28719:

    Límite de Qualla
    Límite de Qualla
    1526 Acquoni Road
    Cherokee, NC

    Condado Jackson
    Oficina del DSS del condado Jackson
    15 Griffin St. 
    Sylva, NC 28779

    Si bien se alienta a las personas en los condados de Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transilvania, Watauga, Wilkes y Yancey y a los miembros de la Banda Oriental de Indios Cherokee que viven en el código postal 28719 a aplicar en el condado de su domicilio, también pueden aplicar en persona en cualquiera de los condados aprobados para implementar D-SNAP. El NCDHHS publicará información sobre las ubicaciones y horarios de los sitios en cada condado en http://www.ncdhhs.gov/fns.

    Tenga en cuenta que puede haber largos tiempos de espera. Los funcionarios del condado harán todo lo posible para procesar las solicitudes lo más rápido posible.

    Las personas que puedan tener una discapacidad o no puedan ir físicamente a solicitar ayuda en persona pueden completar este formulario en inglés o español y enviar un representante autorizado en su lugar.

    El NCDHHS está trabajando con el Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos (USDA, por sus siglas en inglés) para agregar dos condados adicionales a través de la fase dos de la implementación de D-SNAP en una fecha posterior. Una vez aprobado, NCDHHS compartirá información adicional.

    Para obtener información sobre el huracán Helene y los recursos y flexibilidades adicionales existentes, visite http://www.ncdps.gov/Helene y http://www.ncdhhs.gov/helene. 

    ###

    De acuerdo con la ley federal de derechos civiles y las regulaciones y políticas de derechos civiles del Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos (USDA, por sus siglas en inglés), esta institución tiene prohibido discriminar por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo (incluyendo la identidad de género y la orientación sexual), credo religioso, discapacidad, edad, creencias políticas o represalias o repercusiones por actividades anteriores en defensa de los derechos civiles.

    La información del programa puede estar disponible en otros idiomas además del inglés.  Las personas con discapacidades que necesiten medios alternativos de comunicación para obtener información sobre el programa (braille, letra grande, cinta de audio, lenguaje de señas estadounidense, etc.) deben contactar a la agencia estatal o local en la que solicitaron los beneficios. Las personas sordas o con problemas de audición o discapacidades del habla pueden comunicarse con el USDA a través del Servicio de Retransmisión/Relé Federal al (800) 877-8339.

    Para presentar una queja por discriminación, el demandante debe completar un Formulario AD-3027, Formulario de queja de discriminación de programa del USDA, que se puede obtener en línea en: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, desde cualquier oficina del USDA, llamando al (866) 632-9992 o escribiendo una carta dirigida al USDA. La carta debe contener el nombre, dirección y número de teléfono del demandante, así como una descripción escrita de la supuesta acción discriminatoria con el suficiente detalle para informar al subsecretario de Derechos Civiles (ASCR, por sus siglas en inglés) sobre la naturaleza y la fecha de una supuesta violación de los derechos civiles. El formulario AD-3027 completo o la carta debe enviarse a:

    1. Correo: 
      Food and Nutrition Service, USDA
      1320 Braddock Place, Room 334
      Alexandria, VA 22314
    2. Fax:
      (833) 256-1665 o (202) 690-7442; o
    3. Correo electrónico:
      FNSCIVILRIGHTSCOMPLAINTS@usda.gov

    Esta institución ofrece igualdad de oportunidades.

    Oct 14, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grad Students, Postdocs, and Early-Career Staff Prepare To Carry Torch of International Research Collaboration

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    NREL Empowers Next Generation of Globally Minded Scientists To Solve Global Energy Challenges

    In the afterglow of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it is worth remembering that athletic feats are not the only endeavors that resonate across international borders.

    Shifting to clean energy means addressing some of the most difficult technical challenges the world has faced—making collaboration key. It means investing in our future leaders and providing them opportunities to encounter new ideas, develop new skills, and become globally aware scientists.

    “Tackling the global threat of climate change will require a unified global effort, yet effective international collaboration remains as challenging as it is important,” said Steven Hayden, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) microscopist and postdoctoral-researcher liaison. “Diversity is a critical human strength. By exposing our postdocs—tomorrow’s leaders—to a variety of worldviews and collaborative methods, we foster the global community necessary to secure our collective future.”

    At NREL, investing in postdocs and early-career researchers as global leaders starts by supporting them in attending international convenings, conferences, and summer schools. These are venues where they build professional networks, discover job opportunities, exchange ideas, and act as NREL ambassadors to the global energy research community.

    This summer, NREL postdocs and early-career staff participated in multiple events around the globe, including in Italy, Indonesia, Singapore, and stateside in Golden, Colorado, just down the road from NREL’s South Table Mountain Campus. In some cases, postdocs were competitively selected to attend.

    In Indonesia, RD20, an initiative among Group of 20 (G20) countries and regions to strengthen international collaborations among leading energy-research institutes, hosted its second annual summer school in summer 2024.

    Jacob Cordell (left) and Alex Hill (right) pose in front of an Indonesian presidential palace, Bogor Palace, at the Bogor Botanical Gardens, which they visited during the 2024 RD20 summer school. Photo from Alex Hill, NREL

    “This is an opportunity for graduate students, postdocs, and early-career researchers to get exposure to and even get involved with international research and development collaboration,” said NREL Associate Laboratory Director Bill Tumas, who sits on the RD20 action committee. “These events enable the next generation of our scientific workforce to gain an appreciation for the diversity of solutions and approaches for clean energy technologies.”

    Four NREL postdocs and early-career researchers participated in the RD20 organization’s summer school in 2024. The next summer school will be held at NREL in 2025.

    “We do world-class research, but going to the summer school made me realize that an integral piece of world-class research is interacting with the world,” said NREL postdoc Alex Hill, reflecting on his experience at the RD20 summer school. “I think that is something I want to try to take forward in my research: How can I engage community stakeholders more in the day-to-day operations of what I do?”

    Postdoc Diego Soetrisno, another RD20 summer school participant, said that the opportunity reinforced the value of contextualizing one’s own fundamental research amid an ongoing global exchange of ideas.

    “I did my Ph.D. doing really fundamental work, but there’s a gap between my fundamental work and context with the larger picture,” Soetrisno said. “This summer school experience has given me more understanding of the really large picture of decarbonization technology. But it is also trying to bring my work in context with other people’s work. Without that communication, my work would not be able to really influence other people.”

    Below are short descriptions and lists of participants in international convenings this summer. Congrats to this year’s participants!

    Barga, Italy—Electronic Processes in Organic Materials Gordon Research Conference

    The Electronic Processes in Organic Materials Gordon Research Conference focused on advancing the frontiers of science by having participants present cutting-edge and unpublished research, prioritizing time for discussion after each talk, and fostering informal interactions among scientists of all career stages.

    NREL participants:

    • Nick Hight-Huf, postdoctoral researcher
    • Bryon Larson, researcher
    • Max O’Connor, graduate student
    • Garry Rumbles, senior research fellow.

    South Tangerang, Indonesia—RD20 Summer School

    Photo from Alex Hill, NREL

    The 2024 RD20 summer school was titled “Diversity of Knowledge on Decarbonization in Just Energy Transition Mechanism,” providing an opportunity for young researchers from G20 countries to deepen their knowledge and skills in the field of decarbonization. Event themes were broad, ranging from life-cycle assessments, circular economy, and smart grids to biomass resources, energy storage, and hydrogen production and utilization.

    NREL participants:

    • Anthony Burrell, research advisor
    • Birdie Carpenter, researcher
    • Jacob Cordell, analyst
    • Randy Cortright, research advisor
    • Alex Hill, postdoctoral researcher
    • Prashant Saini, postdoctoral researcher
    • Diego Soetrisno, postdoctoral researcher
    • Bill Tumas, associate laboratory director.

    Golden, Colorado, USA—International School for Materials for Energy and Sustainability 2024

    Photo from Dave Ginley, NREL

    The International School for Materials for Energy and Sustainability 2024—another annual event—brought together Ph.D. students and postdocs to review and actively discuss/debate state-of-the-art and future perspectives for materials as they can be applied to energy generation and storage for a sustainable global energy infrastructure.

    NREL participants:

    • Zachary Binger, postdoctoral researcher
    • Sakshi Gautam, former NREL postdoctoral researcher
    • David Ginley, senior research fellow
    • Mukta Hardikar, postdoctoral researcher
    • Matthew Hautzinger, researcher
    • Jason Hirschey, postdoctoral researcher
    • Adarsh Kimar, postdoctoral researcher
    • Shubham Sundeep, postdoctoral researcher
    • Chenchao Xie, postdoctoral researcher
    • Adam Yonge, postdoctoral researcher.

    Learn about internships and postdoctoral positions at NREL.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Torres Commemorates Indigenous Peoples’ Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    October 14, 2024

    Torres is the only Member of Congress to introduce legislation that would replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day

    Washington D.C.  –Today, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres, a member of the Congressional Native American Caucus, commemorates Indigenous Peoples’ Day with her bill, H.R. 5822 of the bicameral Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act alongside Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Sharice Davids (KS-03), and Suzan DelBene (WA-01), and Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), this legislation would would designate Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a legal public holiday and replace the term ‘‘Columbus Day’’ with the term ‘‘Indigenous Peoples’ Day.’’ 

    “It has been a year since the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act was reintroduced, and our nation needs to recognize and work towards addressing the deep-seated historical injustices and suffering experienced by the natives across the country,” said Congresswoman Norma Torres. “The Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act seeks to honor the enduring presence of the tribes that inhabited the Americas long before the arrival of Western explorers. By establishing Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a federal holiday, we can take a meaningful step towards acknowledging the complexities of our nation’s history and celebrating the rich traditions and culture of all Indigenous communities who are an integral part of the United States history. It is time for my colleagues in the House and Senate to unite in passing this critical legislation, ensuring that we pay tribute to the cultures and significant contributions of Indigenous peoples to our nation.”

    “Recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an essential step toward honoring the accomplishments and strength of Tribal Nations across New Mexico and the country,” said Senator Luján, a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “I’m proud to lead this effort to officially designate Indigenous Peoples’ Day and am hopeful that Congress will follow in New Mexico’s footsteps and recognize the holiday federally. Throughout history, Native people have played a vital role in our society and shaping our nation’s history – from serving in the military, educating our children, to boosting our economy – and it is well past time to celebrate their contributions. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this bill and honor all the triumphs of our Tribal communities.” 

    “On Indigenous Peoples’ Day we recognize the immense contributions Indigenous communities have made throughout our country’s history and before its founding,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “We also must acknowledge the many injustices that continue to affect Indigenous communities today. I’m pleased to join my colleagues in this important effort to establish Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a federal holiday.”

    “Indigenous People’s Day is not only a time to acknowledge the centuries of discrimination that Native peoples have experienced, but an opportunity to celebrate how much Indigenous peoples’ rich cultures have contributed to our nation’s history,” said Representative Sharice L. Davids. “As one of the first Native American women elected to Congress and a proud member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, I am proud to join my colleagues in calling for the national celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day.”

    “Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an opportunity for us to unite in celebration of the rich tapestry of tribal nations, their diverse cultures, and the important contributions they have made to our communities,” said Congresswoman Suzan DelBene. “Cementing this observance also acknowledges the current and historical injustices Indigenous communities face and renews our commitment to preserving their rights as we work toward a more inclusive and equitable society.”

    “As President of the Navajo Nation, I am proud to support Congresswoman Torre’s and Senator Heinrich’s efforts to pass the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act. Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an opportunity for all of us to come together to honor the rich histories, cultures and contributions of Indigenous communities across the country. It is a day to reflect on the resilience of our people, and to promote understanding and respect for our heritage. By recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we celebrate our past and pave the way for a future built on mutual respect and collaboration. This is a day for education, reflection and unity as we work toward healing and progress.” – Dr. Buu Nygren, President of the Navajo Nation

    Full Indigenous Peoples’ Day Act Bill

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Human Rights Education toolkits for Write for Rights 2024

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Amnesty International’s “Write for Rights” campaign takes place annually around 10 December, which is Human Rights Day (marking the day when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted in 1948). Write for Rights aims to bring about change to the lives of people or communities that have suffered or are at risk of human rights violations.

    Some 20 years ago, a small group of activists in Poland ran a 24-hour letter-writing marathon. Over the following years, the idea spread. Today, Write for Rights is the world’s biggest human rights event.

    From 2,326 letters in 2001 to more than 6 million letters, tweets, petition signatures and other actions in 2023, people the world over have used the power of their words to unite behind the idea that geography is no barrier to solidarity. In 2023 alone, more than 1.4 million people were engaged through human rights education activities. Together, these individuals have helped transform the lives of more than 100 people over the years, freeing them from torture, harassment or unjust imprisonment.

    The human rights education toolkit for this year’s Write for Rights campaign can help educators and participants to gain more understanding and build solidarity, preparing them to take action. These human rights education activities can take place in a variety of settings, such as a school classroom, a community group, a family or an activist group. As a facilitator, you can adapt the activity to best suit the needs and context of the group you are working with. For example, you may want to consider what knowledge the group already has about the issues discussed, the size and age range of your group and how to best organize the activity to allow for active participation, the physical setting of your activity, delivering it in-person or online and any limitations. When participants want to take action on a case, discuss with them whether it is safe for them to do so.

    The activities are all based on participatory learning methods in which learners are not merely presented with information, they explore, discuss, analyze and question issues relating to the stories they will work with in each activity. This methodology allows participants to:

    • develop key competencies and skills
    • form their own opinions, raise questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the issues presented
    • take control of their learning, and shapes discussions according to their interests, abilities and concerns
    • have the space required for them to engage emotionally and develop their own attitudes

    Write for Rights 2024 General Activity

    Neth Nahara, Angola

    Joel Paredes, Argentina

    Maryia Kalesnikava, Belarus

    Wet’suwet’en Nation land defenders, Canada

    Kyung Seok Park, South Korea

    Manahel al-Otaibi, Saudi Arabia

    Professor Şebnem Korur Fincancı, Türkiye

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – 3 reasons why gold could hit all-time highs in early 2025 – deVere Group

    Source: deVere Group


    October 14 2024 – Gold prices are on track to reach historic levels in the first quarter of 2025, predicts the CEO of one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory and asset management organizations.


    The bullish prediction from deVere Group’s Nigel Green is driven by a confluence of factors reshaping global markets. 


    He says: “As central banks continue aggressive buying, the US Federal Reserve cuts interest rates, and geopolitical tensions persist, the precious metal is primed for a bullish surge that could shatter previous records.”


    Central banks around the world are accelerating their gold purchases at a pace not seen in decades. This trend, which initially gained momentum following the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, has broadened, with many countries shifting away from US dollar-denominated assets. 


    “Gold buying has now surged to nearly three times the level it was before 2022, and the outlook suggests continued strong demand into 2025,” notes the deVere CEO.


    “This wave of buying is not just about portfolio diversification—it’s a strategic move to mitigate risks. Countries, especially those wary of US financial sanctions, are increasingly turning to gold to shield their reserves from political and economic pressures. 


    “China, for instance, has been a key player in this trend. In 2023, China’s central bank added to its gold holdings for 10 consecutive months, underscoring the nation’s intention to reduce its reliance on the dollar amidst growing geopolitical tensions with the West. 


    “This buying intensity continued well into 2024, with net purchases of 290 tonnes recorded in the first quarter of 2024 – the fourth strongest quarter of purchases since the buying streak began in 2022.”


    Similarly, Turkey, Singapore, Brazil and India have also ramped up their gold reserves, driven by their need to safeguard against currency volatility and potential sanctions.


    The US Federal Reserve’s shift from its aggressive interest rate hiking cycle toward rate cuts is another pivotal factor that will likely fuel a rally in gold. 


    “Higher interest rates make gold less attractive as it doesn’t generate yield. However, with rates poised to fall, the tables are turning. Lower rates can often reduce the appeal of yield-bearing assets, drawing some investors – both retail and institutional – back into the gold market.”


    In today’s fragile global landscape, gold’s role as a portfolio hedge remains as vital as ever. 


    The potential for geopolitical shocks—including escalating trade wars, sanctions, and heightened global tensions—continues to loom large. 


    “Gold offers unparalleled protection in such scenarios, especially as concerns grow around issues such as Fed independence, global debt sustainability, and financial sanctions,” affirms Nigel Green.


    “One scenario that could send gold prices soaring is an escalation in financial sanctions comparable to the surge seen since 2021. Another potential trigger could be worsening debt fears in the US.”


    He concludes, “Against this backdrop, and should the current momentum be maintained, we could see new all-time price highs for gold in the first quarter of 2025.”

    deVere Group is one of the world’s largest independent advisors of specialist global financial solutions to international, local mass affluent, and high-net-worth clients.  It has a network of offices around the world, more than 80,000 clients, and $12bn under advisement.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI: Configurable LED Matrix Driver and Touch Sensing Controller SoC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Advanced Integrated 8 x 16 LED Matrix Driver and 16 Capacitive Touch Key Controller

    Enabling HMI in Industrial and Automotive Applications

    MILPITAS, Calif., Oct. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lumissil Microsystems expanded its automotive and industrial 32-bit MCU portfolio with the introduction of the IS31CS9310 and IS32CS9310 family of intelligent programmable LED SoC with touch key controller. The LED driver enables the IS31CS9310 and IS32CS9310 to create LED matrix light tailored to system requirements. They feature integrated non-volatile memory to store LED parameters essential for dynamic lighting effects such as color transition, pulsing, fading and animated patterns.

    Dynamic lighting effects are created by an 8 x 12 LED matrix driver using 8 PMOS switches and 12 built-in current sinks, operating without an external microcontroller, thus reducing PCB size and cost. To address potential EMI from high-frequency LED operation, these drivers feature spread spectrum frequency modulation, distributing energy across a wide range to help meet EMI compliance standards. LED ghosting or residual light is tackled with a de-ghosting circuit in the IS31CS9310 and IS32CS9310. For precise brightness control and uniform illumination, the drivers use 12-bit 80mA PWM-controlled current sinks, allowing each LED to be adjusted across 4096 brightness levels or the entire matrix across 256 levels.

    To streamline the process of replacing traditional mechanical buttons, the IS31CS9310 and IS32CS9310 are equipped with a touch controller consisting of 16 capacitive touch key sensors. These touch key sensors offer water and dust resistance, ensuring reliable operation in environments prone to moisture or splashes. This makes the IS31CS9310 and IS32CS9310 suitable for applications where durability and resistance to environmental factors are critical.

    In addition to touch key capabilities, the touch keys can be customized from self-capacitance to mutual capacitance, allowing the touch keys to serve as a touch sense matrix. Specifically, by reconfiguring the touch keys, it allows the keys to function as an 8-channel proximity sensor to detect gestures.

    The IS31CS9310 and IS32CS9310 include a 32-bit RISC-V processor as a flexible option to x86 and ARM processors. It can be configured for low power or high performance, leveraging a reduced instruction set architecture to efficiently decode and execute instructions, reducing power demand. The processor’s pipeline depth and execution types (integer, floating-point, branch prediction) are configurable. For power constraints, fewer pipeline stages can save power; more stages boost performance. It also features dynamic voltage and frequency scaling to optimize energy use. Being open source, RISC reduces risk and accelerates time to market with access to shared tools and resources.

    In addition to the RISC architecture, the IS31CS9310 and IS32CS9310 feature 256KB of integrated non-volatile memory to store not only custom LED patterns but also custom firmware for HMI white goods home appliances, automotive dashboard applications, and Industrial control panel use cases. The on-board memory simplifies design and minimizes BOM cost by eliminating the need for external memory and hardware. It also supports more advanced features such as melody generator, OTA (over the air) update capability and debugging port/tool support. “Lumissil is ready to tackle the next challenge integrating LED Drivers and touch sensing microcontrollers, addressing smart homes, appliances, automotive dashboards, industrial automation, and medical equipment with the new IS31CS9310 and IS32CS9310 32-bit MCU SoC,” said Ven Shen, Lumissil’s VP of Marketing. “The IS31CS9310 and IS32CS9310 will aid the development of advanced applications requiring integrated lighting and HMI sensing.”

    Availability and Pricing

    The IS31CS9310 and IS32CS9310 are available in mass production quantities. The industrial/commercial IS31CS9310 is offered in an eLQFP-64 package, priced at $1.79 in 1k quantities. The automotive IS32CS9310 is AEC-Q100 qualified and comes in an eLQFP-64 package, priced at $1.99 in 1k quantities.

    About Lumissil Microsystems

    Lumissil Microsystems specializing in analog/mixed-signal products for automotive, communications, industrial, and consumer markets. Lumissil’s primary products are LED drivers for low to mid-power RGB color mixing and high-power lighting applications. Other products include audio, sensors, high-speed wire communications, optical networking, and application specific microcontrollers. Lumissil Microsystems has worldwide offices in the US, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, mainland China, Europe, Hong Kong, India, and Korea. Website: https://www.lumissil.com

    Ven Shan
    P: 408-969-4622
    vshan@lumissil.com

    Herbe Chun
    P. 408-969-5128
    hchun@lumissil.com

    Follow us on Linkedin to keep up to date with our latest news: linkedin.com/company/lumissil

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/90c87b70-297b-4522-beab-2a49c914a958

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: UXLINK Unveils Ambitious Roadmap to Serve 1 Billion Users Globally

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Oct. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — UXLINK, the world’s largest Web3 social platform and infrastructure provider, has unveiled its strategic roadmap to expand its user base to 1 billion through a series of high-impact initiatives. This ambitious plan includes integrating its Social Growth Layer infrastructure with major communication platforms such as Telegram, WhatsApp, Line, KakaoTalk, and WeChat, making Web3 socialization more accessible and inclusive.

    “Our goal is to create a unified social experience across all major platforms while leveraging the benefits of blockchain technology,” said Sean, Founder at UXLINK. “By bridging the gap between traditional social networks and the decentralized world, UXLINK is poised to become the first choice for Web3 socialization and user engagement.”

    Key Milestones in the Roadmap

    1. Phase One: Integrate with core social platforms to establish a seamless Web3 social graph.
    2. Phase Two: Deploy applications on Line and KakaoTalk to achieve high-quality user growth and expand the platform’s footprint in Asia.
    3. Phase Three: Implement modular Web3 socialization upgrades, enabling a one-stop account system and social service ecosystem.

    UXLINK’s roadmap is focused on creating a scalable, secure, and user-centric social platform that will support a diverse range of applications and services.

    For more details on UXLINK’s roadmap, visit http://www.uxlink.io.

    About UXLINK:

    UXLINK is the world’s largest Web3 social platform and infrastructure provider, connecting a wide array of ecosystem partners and users through a seamless and interactive digital experience. By leveraging blockchain technology, UXLINK aims to redefine social networking, ensuring a secure, transparent, and rewarding environment for its global community.

    Contact Details:

    UXLINK: https://www.uxlink.io/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/UXLINKofficial
    Telegram: https://t.me/uxlinkofficial, https://t.me/uxlinkofficial2
    CMC: https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/uxlink/  

    Contact Information:
    UXLINK
    admin@uxlink.io

    Media Contact:
    Rachita Chettri
    MediaX Agency
    contact@mediax.agency

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by “UXLINK”. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/722b1596-56e6-4ec2-8205-14de35043b77

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Introducing a digital euro: The cross-border dimension

    Source: Bundesbank

    Check against delivery.

    1 Introduction

    Dear Governor Das,

    dear colleagues,

    ladies and gentlemen,

    I am delighted to be here with you today, at this wonderful location, visiting this wonderful country – one of the cradles of world civilisation and culture. 

    The Reserve Bank of India is currently celebrating its foundation 90 years ago. My heartfelt congratulations to all members of staff on this anniversary! Last year, Indian real-time payment systems processed about 129 billion digital transactions.[1] This means that 84% of electronic payment transactions took place in real time. During the same period, only about 19% of electronic payments worldwide were real-time transactions. In my view, this is impressive evidence of the excellent work the RBI has accomplished over the last few years.

    Payment systems and their cross-border interaction are also an important topic at this conference. This is because cross-border payments are an integral part of our globalised world. Historically, from the Renaissance to modern times, correspondent banks have acted as the bedrock for cross-border payment transactions.[2] However, even today, transferring funds by means of correspondent banking is often slow, involves many steps and may result in high and non-transparent fees. 

    Moreover, in the last two decades, correspondent banking has been subject to a downward trend, mainly due to increasingly strict compliance requirements. Between 2011 and 2022, the number of active correspondents decreased by roughly one third, while the value of cross-border payments increased by almost 40%.[3] Obviously, this is an alarming trend in terms of market competition.

    To some extent, technical progress might be able to compensate for a tighter correspondent banking market. In particular, in the last decade, a number of FinTech companies have provided new opportunities to streamline cross-border payments using innovative methods like blockchain and digital wallets.  The FinTech revolution focused on private money. However, it now appears there may be another revolution on the horizon – this time involving payments in central bank money: the introduction of central bank digital currencies (CBDC).

    In my talk, I would like to address CBDC developments with a particular focus on cross-border payments. First, I will outline some general points about the potential impact and benefits of the introduction of CBDC for processing cross-border transactions. Second, I will aim to highlight this topic in the context of the Eurosystem’s work on a digital euro – the envisaged European retail CBDC.

    2 CBDCs and cross-border payments

    Given that there are correspondent banks and FinTechs working on digital innovations as well, let me begin with a question. What would be the additional benefits of CBDCs in the area of digital payments? The introduction of CBDCs would facilitate a setup of new infrastructures for digital payments. On the one hand, this makes high initial investment necessary. On the other hand, once a CBDC is established with its new infrastructure, it could catalyse broad improvements in payment systems, including cross-border transactions – by introducing new message standards and shorter process chains, for example.[4] 

    Starting on a green field may be one major advantage of CBDCs. Experience shows that, in particular, implementing common standards is not an easy task. Take ISO 20022, for example.[5] The International Organisation for Standardisation proposed this common standard for financial messages in cross-border payments in 2004. It will be probably more widely used in payment systems on a global level next year – 21 years after the initial proposal. This period feels even longer when you think of all the innovations that have taken place in the meantime – the first iPhone was presented in 2007, the concept of a decentralised blockchain in 2008.

    However, to be able to reap the benefits for cross-border payment, interoperability between CBDCs must be ensured early on. To this end, central banks should already begin to consider the best ways for interaction in the planning phase. In my view, we have a historic opportunity to vastly improve cross-border transactions by making different CBDCs interoperable from the very beginning.

    Indeed, a number of projects are already researching the best ways of making CBDCs interoperable. For instance, the Bank for International Settlement (BIS) Innovation Hub in Singapore and a number of national central banks in the Indo-Pacific region set up Project Dunbar to explore how a common platform for CBDCs could enable cheaper, faster and safer cross-border payments.[6] 

    I am strongly in favour of a multilateral approach in this area, because this best serves the interests of all participants. If central banks proceed in a largely unilateral way instead, we not only risk inefficiencies, but also undesirable interferences. Consider a scenario in which a CBDC is made available for holders abroad in a unilateral way. In such a case, we could see currency substitution or appreciation pressure for the domestic currency. Also, the balance sheet of the CBDC emitting central bank could strongly expand. A knock-on effect may be that domestic monetary policy in countries that suffer from increased currency substitution becomes less effective. By contrast, a multilateral approach including reasonable holding limits could mitigate these risks.

    Meanwhile, the RBI has made valuable contributions to the topic of retail CBDC. The digital rupee based on blockchain technology was launched on 1 December 2022. It is issued by the central bank and distributed by commercial banks. As I understand it, the RBI intends to tap the potential for using CBDCs in cross-border payments as well.

    3 A digital euro: The cross-border dimension

    In the Eurosystem, we expect a digital euro to be launched in just a few years’ time. The primary goal of a digital euro is meet the domestic needs of the euro area. To some extent, however, this goal already includes a significant cross-border dimension. Let me explain what I mean by that. A quarter century on from the introduction of the euro, there is still no single pan-European solution for digital payments when people go shopping in stores or online. This means there is a risk that traditional cashless payment solutions offered by private European payment service providers will not match customer needs.

    To be fair, some euro area Member States have successfully implemented innovative digital solutions in the area of payments – I am thinking, for example, of the online payment system iDEAL in the Netherlands or Bizum Wallet in Spain. However, such payment solutions by themselves usually only function within national borders. Promising initiatives have been underway in recent years to widen the scope of these solutions. For example, iDEAL was successfully acquired by the European Payments Initiative, a company founded by several European banks and financial services companies. This initiative seeks to create a truly pan-European payment solution in the near to medium term. 

    This shows that the European payments sector has made meaningful progress; however, there are challenges further ahead. International payment providers, particularly those offering credit card schemes, still heavily dominate the European market for payment services – and even more when it comes to payments abroad.

    A digital euro would be a major step forward in this context. It would provide a standardised digital means of payment for day-to-day transactions throughout the euro area. Despite the need for a more integrated payment system, we are determined to prevent the Eurosystem’s footprint in the European financial system from becoming too large. We are therefore planning to issue a digital euro, but not to distribute it. This means that banks and other payment providers should assume the role of the CBDC interface between the Eurosystem and the customers.

    The euro area currently consists of 20 Member States, each of which has its own banking system with its own unique features. Against this background, I am sure you can imagine the overall complexity of our task. Therefore, our current focus is on making the digital euro accessible for all users within the euro area. We are investing great effort in our work on this, and we are constantly explaining what we do and why we do it, not least because a number of people are sceptical of CBDCs. 

    Once we have accomplished a digital euro for all users within the euro area, it will, in my view, be worth considering making it accessible to users outside the euro area as well. Rules for geographical access to a digital euro will be set down in legislation. If European legislation allows, access to a digital euro can also be granted to consumers and firms in the Member States of the European Economic Area outside the euro area. Selected non-EU countries can be included as well.[7]

    Ideally, the D€ would be interoperable with other CBDCs from the very start, for example, for person-to-person payments or commercial payments from or to firms outside the euro area. However, this is currently a vision for the future, since, as already mentioned, we first have to overcome numerous challenges to establish a retail digital euro that works within the euro area.

    4 Concluding remarks

    Let me conclude. So far, CBDCs are newcomers to the world of payment systems. We can only estimate how large a role they will end up playing in payment transactions. This is all the more true when it comes to cross-border payments.

    The scepticism about CBDCs in many quarters is not uncommon for many technological innovations. For example, in the early 1980s, “computerphobia” was a widespread phenomenon.[8] This took a wide range of forms, even fear of physically touching a computer or feeling threatened by those who worked with them. Today, this may seem very strange to us. Computers have since become an essential day-to-day tool for us.

    And so we will continue our efforts to implement CBDCs. I am confident that this will ultimately make our payment systems better, faster and more efficient.

     

    Footnotes:

    1. ACI Worldwide Inc., It’s prime time for real-time: Real-time payments adoption and growth around the globe, Payment report 2024. 
    2. Lothian, J. R. (2002), The internationalization of money and finance and the globalization of financial markets, Journal of International Money and Finance 21, Vol. 6, p. 699-724.
    3. Garratt, R., Wilkens, P. K. and H. S. Shin, Next generation correspondent banking, BIS Bulletin No. 78, 30 May 2024.
    4. Deutsche Bundesbank, Cross-border interoperability of central bank digital currency, Monthly Report, July 2022, p. 59-75.
    5.  ISO 20022 | ISO20022
    6.  Project Dunbar – International settlements using multi-CBDCs (mas.gov.sg)
    7.  International aspects of CBDCs: update on digital euro (europa.eu)
    8. LaFrance, A., When People Feared Computers, The Atlantic, 30 March 2015.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on SG Finserve limited

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated October 1, 2024, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹28.30 lakh (Rupee Twenty Eight Lakh Thirty Thousand only) on SG Finserve limited (formerly known as M/s Moongipa Securities Limited) (the company) for non-compliance with specific conditions under which the company was issued the Certificate of Registration (CoR) by RBI under section 45IA(5) of Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 (RBI Act). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of clause (a) of sub-section (1) of Section 58G read with sub-section (6) of Section 58 B of the RBI Act.

    The financial statements of the company for FY 2022-23 revealed inter alia, non-compliance with the specific conditions of the CoR. Based on the same, a notice was issued to the company advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for failure to comply with the said conditions of the CoR.

    After considering the company’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the company was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The company had accepted public funds and extended loans in violation of the specific conditions of the CoR issued to it.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the company with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the company.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1284

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi hails 3 years of PM GatiShakti National Master Plan

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi hails 3 years of PM GatiShakti National Master Plan

    PM GatiShakti National Master Plan has emerged as a transformative initiative aimed at revolutionizing India’s infrastructure: Prime Minister

    Thanks to GatiShakti, India is adding speed to fulfil our vision of a Viksit Bharat: Prime Minister

    Posted On: 13 OCT 2024 10:32AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has lauded the completion of 3 years of PM GatiShakti National Master Plan. 

    Sharing on X, a post by Union Commerce and Industry Minister, Shri Piyush Goyal and a thread post by MyGov, the Prime Minister wrote:

    “PM GatiShakti National Master Plan has emerged as a transformative initiative aimed at revolutionizing India’s infrastructure. It has significantly enhanced multimodal connectivity, driving faster and more efficient development across sectors. 

    The seamless integration of various stakeholders has led to boosting logistics, reducing delays and creating new opportunities for several people.”

    “Thanks to GatiShakti, India is adding speed to fulfil our vision of a Viksit Bharat. It will encourage progress, entrepreneurship and innovation.”

     

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/TS

    (Release ID: 2064478) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Central Consumer Protection Authority directs Ola to develop mechanism providing choice to consumers regarding refund mode

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Central Consumer Protection Authority directs Ola to develop mechanism providing choice to consumers regarding refund mode

    Consumers may choose refund via Bank Account or Coupon in Grievance Redressal Process

    Central Consumer Protection Authority’s intervention leads to crucial consumer-centric changes in the Ola app

    Posted On: 13 OCT 2024 4:05PM by PIB Delhi

    In a landmark decision, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has directed Ola, a leading online ride-hailing platform, to implement a mechanism allowing consumers to choose their preferred method of refund—either directly to their bank account or via coupon—during the grievance redressal process. Additionally, Ola has been instructed to provide consumers with a bill or receipt or invoice for all Auto rides booked through its platform, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in its services. The Authority is headed by Chief Commissioner Smt. Nidhi Khare.

    CCPA observed that the whenever consumer raised any grievance on the Ola app, as part of its no-question-asked refund policy, Ola only provided a coupon code which could be used for the next ride without providing an clear choice to the consumer to opt between a bank account refund or a coupon. It was observed that this violates consumer rights and the no-question-asked refund policy cannot mean that the company incentivises people to simply use this facility for taking another ride.

    Further, CCPA observed that if a consumer attempts to access invoice for Auto rides booked on Ola, the app shows the message ‘Customer invoice for Auto rides will not be provided due to changes in Ola’s auto service T&Cs.’ It was observed that not issuing bill or invoice or receipt for the goods sold or services rendered constitutes an ‘unfair trade practice’ under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.  

    2. Definitions.

    (47) “unfair trade practice” means a trade practice which, for the purpose of promoting the sale, use or supply of any goods or for the provision of any service, adopts any unfair method or unfair or deceptive practice including any of the following practices, namely:—

    (vii) not issuing bill or cash memo or receipt for the goods sold or services rendered in such manner as may be prescribed.

     

    In addition to the above, CCPA’s intervention has led to the following consumer-centric changes in the Ola app –

    1. Previously, no details of Grievance officer and nodal officer were prominently visible on the website. Now, Name, Phone number and e-mail of Grievance officer and nodal officer are mentioned, in Support section of website.
    2. Permitted time of cancellation as per cancellation policy, now prominently displayed at the time of booking ride.
    3. The amount of cancellation fee amount is now clearly mentioned on the ride booking page, so that the consumer is clearly aware of the amount which could be charged on cancelling the ride before she/he proceeds to cancel.
    4. New acceptance screen added for drivers where address of both pickup and drop location is shown to drivers.
    5. In order to avoid inconvenience and confusion, more reasons added against which consumer wishes to cancel ride.
    6. List of components that constitute the total fare added now publically available such as base fare, per km fare, pre-wait charges etc.
    7. Communications issued to drivers to encourage taking digital payments and switch on AC.
    8. Revised payment cycles for drivers so that they get payment swiftly.

    As per information on the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), a total of 2,061 complaints have been registered against Ola from 01.01.2024 to 09.10.2024. The top categories of complaints include –

    1. Higher fare charged from consumer than what was shown at the time of booking the ride
    2. Non-refund of amount to the consumer
    3. Driver asking for extra cash
    4. Driver did not reach the correct location or dropped at incorrect location

    Through its regulatory intervention, the CCPA has been steadfast in ensuring that Ola adheres to the legal framework established to secure the rights of consumers. These measures aim to empower consumers, enhance trust, and improve service provider accountability, reflecting the CCPA’s commitment to ensuring a fair and secure experience for all consumers on e-commerce platforms.

    ****

    AD/NS

    (Release ID: 2064519) Visitor Counter : 18

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh interacts with students from J&K on Bharat Darshan tour;

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh interacts with students from J&K on Bharat Darshan tour;

    He advises them to imbibe new technologies and learn about new StartUp avenues for better future

    Posted On: 13 OCT 2024 6:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (I/C) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh today hosted a luncheon interaction with students from Jammu & Kashmir. These children are in Delhi under Bharat Darshan programme of Government of India, which is being conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Police.

    Dr Jitendra Singh was impressed with their inquisitiveness, observation skills, IQ level and advised them to imbibe new technologies, learn about new StartUp avenues and get acquainted with new developments in different segments of society, especially science and technology, biochemistry, artificial intelligence and space technology. He urged students to use their smartphones to attain information and knowledge.

    He spoke about different schemes of the Government of India, including Pradhanmantri Vishwakarma Yojana, which would help them in acquiring and enhancing the skill of their forefathers.

    The Minister informed them about women-run self help groups in J&K who are working on doubling apple yield and increasing the shelf life of these. He also informed about the Purple Revolution benefitting the youth of J&K who not only grow lavender but also distil perfume and oil out of it thereby earning handsomely.

    Dr Jitendra Singh asked children to request their teachers to reach them with new perspectives and incorporate new ideas in their teachings. He also requested J&K Police officers, part of the troupe, to organise such workshops for the teachers that would be beneficial for the students.

    There were around 70 students along with seven officials of the J&K Police. Around half of them are from the families of those who were killed in action. These students first went to Bengaluru where they visited among others Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, Bengaluru. The tour began on October 09, 2024. They are travelling by air and will fly back tomorrow.

    *****

     NKR/DK

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