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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Posts and Amazon Sign Landmark MoU to Enhance Logistics Collaboration

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 2:30PM by PIB Delhi

    Amazon and the Department of Posts have been working together since 2013, utilizing DoP’s network for parcel transmission. The Department of Posts, with its deep reach, and Amazon, one of the world’s largest e-commerce companies, together seek to empower India’s growing e-commerce sector by enhancing logistical capabilities, supporting job creation, and contributing to economic growth.

    In a significant development aimed at strengthening logistics and e-commerce in India, the Department of Posts (DoP) under the Ministry of Communications and Amazon Seller Services Private Limited today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen their collaboration. The MoU was signed by Sh. Kushal Vashist, General Manager, Parcel Directorate, Department of Posts, and Sh. Venkatesh Tiwari, Director, Operations, Amazon Seller Services Pvt Ltd, in New Delhi in the presence of Ms. Vandita Kaul, Secretary (Posts) and Sh. Aman Jain, Director Public Policy, Amazon.

    The agreement builds on a longstanding partnership, with Amazon leveraging the extensive postal network for the transmission and delivery of parcels across India. The signing was witnessed by senior officials from both organizations, marking a key step towards enhancing business operations, capacity sharing, and network utilization.

    Key Highlights of the MoU:

    • Objective: To jointly explore opportunities in logistics and business expansion, enabling Amazon to increase the use of DoP’s extensive postal network for parcel delivery across India.

    • Increased Collaboration: The MoU outlines key areas of cooperation, including synchronization of logistics operations, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-sharing opportunities.

    • Regular Review Mechanisms: Both parties will conduct quarterly reviews to monitor the progress of their collaboration and explore new avenues for strengthening their partnership.

     

    Benefits to Amazon:

    Amazon will gain increased access to DoP’s extensive infrastructure, which includes over 1.6 lakh post offices, making it possible to reach customers even in the most remote regions. This partnership will streamline Amazon’s logistics operations and support its growing e-commerce needs.

    Benefits to the Department of Posts:

    The collaboration will bolster DoP’s parcel business by scaling up parcel transmission and delivery. By working closely with Amazon, DoP will enhance its expertise in e-commerce logistics and drive efficiency in its operations, supporting India’s broader goal of becoming a global logistics hub.

    Meeting between Senior leadership of Department of Posts and Amazon India

    Signing of MoU between Department of Posts and Amazon India

    L-R:
    Sh. Kushal Vashist (General Manager – Parcel Directorate), Sh. Harpreet Singh, (Chief General Manager –  Parcel Directorate), Ms. Manju Kumar (Member – Operations), Ms. Vandita Kaul (Secretary – Posts), Venkatesh Tiwari (Director – India Operation), ⁠Aman Jain (Director – Public Policy), Anuj Kaura (Director – India Operations)

    ******

    BU/DP

    (Release ID: 2061952) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Singapore: Unlawful execution despite ongoing legal appeal raises fears of more to come

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the news that Singapore authorities executed a man for a drug-related offence on Friday, Amnesty International’s Acting Deputy Regional Director for Research Kate Schuetze said:

    “Azwan bin Bohari’s execution was clearly unlawful under international law and standards. It is especially concerning that this hanging took place in spite of a pending legal application.

    “Executing people while they have ongoing appeals before the courts is a violation of international safeguards protecting the rights of people facing the death penalty. This execution calls into serious question the protections in the Singapore justice system to prevent the arbitrary deprivation of life.

    “With numerous others on death row, coupled with Singapore’s pursuit of executions even when there are appeals pending, there are grave fears that many more are at imminent risk of hanging. Most have been sentenced to death for drug-related offences in violation of restrictions limiting the death penalty’s use to ‘the most serious crimes’.

    “We urge the Singapore government to immediately end its unlawful resort to the death penalty and immediately establish a moratorium on executions as a first critical step towards abolition. The majority of the world’s countries have already abolished the death penalty in full and several governments in the Asia-Pacific region have taken steps in that direction. It is high time Singapore followed suit.”  

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA calls for financing model to fund climate change

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr Dion George has called for a comprehensive, outcomes-based financial model to effectively fund the global response to climate change.

    “For South Africa and many other developing countries, this is vitally important, given that financing available for adaptation is lagging behind,” George said on Thursday. 

    The Minister was speaking at the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Ministers meeting in Brazil.

    He said Brazil, through the G20, has seen the need to prioritise scaling-up and expediting adaptation financing and strengthening institutional capacity, through measures such as increasing the volume of adaptation finance; and strengthening capacities to access financing promptly and to implement effective adaptation programmes and initiatives.

    “The impacts of climate change, desertification, biodiversity loss and pollution are severe and far-reaching and require innovative global solutions.

    “We must acknowledge the centrality of the United Nations system and must continue to adhere to agreed multilateral processes, including the negotiating of outcome documents.

    “We must continue to strive towards a balance of ambition and action on all three aspects of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change [UNFCCC] and its Paris Agreement, namely mitigation, adaptation and the means of implementation,” George said.

    According to the United Nations, the UNFCCC is a multilateral treaty adopted in 1992 to stabilise greenhouse gas concentrations “at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic (human-induced) interference with the climate system”.

    “Since entering into force in 1994, the UNFCCC has provided the basis for international climate negotiations, including landmark agreements such as the Kyoto Protocol (1997) and the Paris Agreement (2015),” it said.

    The Paris Agreement sets long-term goals to guide all nations to substantially reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and to provide financing to developing countries to mitigate climate change, among others.

    The Minister said a collaborative and comprehensive approach to maintaining the integrity of biodiversity assets and ecological infrastructure will play a fundamental role in achieving various social and economic development objectives.

    “We are committed to increase economic incentives for nature conservation, restoration and sustainable use of biological resources, with a focus on Payment for Ecosystem Services as a market-based instrument.

    “With regards to our oceans, South Africa with over 3 000 kilometres of coastline, has jurisdiction over one of the world’s largest exclusive economic zones, spanning the Atlantic, Indian and Southern Oceans. This represents a significant Oceans Economy asset for current and future generations,” the Minister said.

    South Africa has adopted the Marine Spatial Planning legislation and remains committed to the sustainable regulated use of our fishing resources and the active prevention of illegal fishing activity.

    The legislation intends to provide a framework for marine spatial planning in South Africa and to provide for institutional arrangements for the implementation of marine spatial plans and governance of the use of the ocean by multiple sectors, among others.

    South Africa also remains committed to the Inter-governmental Negotiating Committee process to develop an international agreement of a legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.

    “We are supportive of the work done by the G20 on Waste and Circular economy and are keen to take forward the outcomes to further develop an inclusive Circular Economy.

    “South Africa will continue to contribute its best effort to find solutions for these global environmental complexities,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 13 private properties receive Gold Awards for best landscape design and maintenance (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Winners of the Best Landscape Award for Private Property Development 2024, organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), were announced at a prize presentation ceremony today (October 4). Thirteen private properties with outstanding landscape design and quality horticultural maintenance received Gold Awards. Thirty Merit Awards and 12 Environmental Efficiency Awards were also given out at the ceremony to commend organisations for their efforts in greening and enhancing public awareness of green issues.
     
         Addressing the ceremony, the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Mr Vincent Liu, said the Best Landscape Award, held once every two years, is one of the LCSD’s major activities to promote greening. The award aims to honour private property developments that excel in landscape design and horticultural maintenance.
     
         Mr Liu added that to offer members of the public more green space, last year the LCSD planted over 500 flowering trees in Sha Tin Park and along Shing Mun River and Yuen Long Nullah. Over the next five years, 2 500 additional trees will be planted in leisure venues and along roads across all the 18 districts to create more flower-viewing hotspots. Also, the LCSD has started to systematically replace senescent Acacia confusa with other flowering trees, in compliance with the Development Bureau’s guidelines. This serves the dual aim of reducing the risk of tree collapses and satisfying public interest in flower appreciation. Replacement work has started in Victoria Peak Garden, Sai Kung and Kwun Tong; by the end of the year, around 400 trees are expected to be planted.

         Apart from planting trees and shrubs, the LCSD has been organising a wide range of community engagement and public education activities. The Best Landscape Award is a notable example. The response to this year’s competition was fervent, with close to 200 nominated entries received. Each entry had its own characteristics, demonstrating the immense efforts made by the participating organisations in greening.
     
         In terms of landscape design, the winning projects integrated distinctive landscape features, large trees, seasonal flowers and plants to create a natural and soothing haven. Rooftop gardening and vertical greening concepts were also employed to enhance greenery coverage.
     
         As for horticultural maintenance, some winning projects highlighted plant care and adopted a variety of environmentally friendly measures to promote environmental awareness and green living. These served to reduce the effects of urban heat island and also offer comfortable greening spaces to residents.
     
         The prize presentation ceremony was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre today. Other officiating guests included representatives from the co-organisers. They were the President of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects, Mr Benny Chan; the President of the Hong Kong Institute of Landscape Architects, Mr Paul Chan; the Chairman of the Professional Green Building Council, Mr Kenneth Yun; the President of the Hong Kong Association of Property Management Companies, Dr Edmond Cheng; Vice President of the Institute of Horticulture (Hong Kong) Mr Kingsley Choi; and the Chairman of the Planning and Development Division of the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, Mr Victor Ng.
     
         The competition presented awards in five categories. The Gold Award winners are as follows:
     
    Domestic property:
     
    (1) Large-scale Domestic Property (with a site area of 20 000 square metres or above)
    i) Properties below six years of age: Wetland Seasons Bay
    ii) Properties between six and below 21 years of age: Valais
    iii) Properties of 21 years of age or above: Aegean Coast
     
    (2) Medium-scale Domestic Property (with a site area from 2 000 sq m to below 20 000 sq m)
    i) Properties below six years of age: Mount Regency
    ii) Properties between six and below 21 years of age: 18 Farm Road
    iii) Properties of 21 years of age or above: Royal Peninsula
     
    (3) Small-scale Domestic Property (with a site area under 2 000 sq m)
    i) Properties below six years of age: The Holborn
    ii) Properties between six and below 21 years of age: Lime Habitat
     
    Non-domestic property (such as hotels, shopping malls, commercial buildings, schools under the Direct Subsidy Scheme [private premises] and private schools):
     
    (4) Large-scale Non-domestic Property (with a gross floor area of 40 000 sq m or above)
    i) Properties below six years of age: AIRSIDE
    ii) Properties between six and below 21 years of age: Domain
    iii) Properties of 21 years of age or above: Nina Mall 1 – Nina Park
     
    (5) Small and Medium-scale Non-domestic Property (with a gross floor area under 40 000 sq m)
    i) Properties below six years of age: Union Hospital Extension
    ii) Properties between six and below 21 years of age: Lee Tung Avenue
     
         The results of the Best Landscape Award are available on the LCSD webpage
    http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/green/property/awards/awards_2024.html.                           

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Global LAG 3 Antibody FDA Approval Clinical Trials LAG 3 Inhibitors Market Future Growth Opportunity Insight

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Delhi, Oct. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global LAG-3 Inhibitors Market, Drug Sales, & Clinical Trials Insight 2029 Report Highlights:

    • Global LAG-3 Inhibitors Market Opportunity: > USD 3 Billion By 2029
    • Global & Regional Market Analysis
    • Commercially Approved LAG-3 Inhibitors: 1
    • Dosing, Pricing & Sales Insight On Approved LAG-3 Inhibitor
    • Insight On All LAG-3 Inhibitors In Trials: > 40
    • Global LAG3 Inhibitors clinical Trials Insight By Company, Country, Indication & Phase
    • Competitive Landscape: Insight on 15 Key Companies

    Download Report:
    https://www.kuickresearch.com/report-lag-3-inhibitors-inhibitor–lag-3-inhibitor-drugs
    landscape
    In recent years, cancer research has undergone significant transformation, marked by the introduction of numerous innovative therapies. With the emergence of advanced PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as Keytruda and Tecentriq, there is a growing necessity to explore additional therapeutic options. This pursuit has led to the discovery of various immune checkpoint receptors, including LAG-3, TIGIT, and VISTA. Among these, LAG-3 stands out for its potential to revolutionize treatment approaches for cancer and other diseases.

    The exploration of LAG-3 has catalyzed the development of new therapies, culminating in the approval of Opdualag, the world’s first LAG-3 therapy, by Bristol Myers Squibb in March 2022. This therapy is specifically indicated for patients aged 12 years and older with unresectable or metastatic melanoma, marking a significant milestone in cancer treatment.

    The approval of Opdualag by the FDA, alongside endorsements from regulatory bodies such as the UK’s MHRA, Australia’s TGA, Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority, and Brazil’s Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária, represents a major breakthrough in cancer immunotherapy. As research progresses, it is expected that additional LAG-3 inhibitors will be launched for cancer treatment in the near future.

    From a commercial standpoint, the global market for LAG-3 inhibitor therapy presents a wealth of opportunities for pharmaceutical and biotech companies. LAG-3 inhibitors can be leveraged for various conditions, including solid tumors, hematological malignancies, autoimmune disorders, and inflammatory diseases. Ongoing clinical trials indicate that LAG-3 inhibitors are primarily being evaluated in combination therapies, where they are tested in conjunction with other immune checkpoint inhibitors or chemotherapy.

    In addition to these combination, studies suggest that LAG-3 inhibitors could be effective when used alongside other therapeutic interventions, such as therapeutic vaccines, oncolytic virus immunotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapies, nanotechnology, and alkaloid therapeutics. This potential for diverse applications could significantly enhance the market viability and clinical relevance of LAG-3 inhibitors across multiple disease contexts.

    Several candidates for LAG-3 inhibitors have reached late-phase clinical trials, reflecting the rapid advancement in this field. Notable examples include Fianlimab, INCAGN02385, XmAb22841, HLX26, Relatlimab, RO7247669, AK129, and Sym022. This progress underscores the increasing momentum behind LAG-3 inhibitors and presents opportunities for pharmaceutical and biotech companies to contribute to this evolving landscape.

    Key industry players, including Bristol Myers Squibb, Symphogen A/S, Hoffmann-La Roche, Immutep, invoX Pharma, Incyte Corporation, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, and Merck, are instrumental in driving the development of LAG-3 inhibitors. Currently, the US market leads in terms of sales, research and development, and regulatory support for LAG-3 therapies. However, active research and development are also underway in countries like China and across Europe, indicating a global commitment to advancing LAG-3 inhibitors.

    According to KuicK Research, the market value for LAG-3 inhibitors was approximately US$ 625 million in 2023. This figure is expected to soar, with projections suggesting that the global LAG-3 market could surpass billions in sales within the next 2 to 5 years. The successful launch of Opdualag has already generated over half a billion dollars in revenue within two years of its approval. Furthermore, Bristol Myers Squibb anticipates estimated sales of US$ 4 billion for Opdualag by 2029.

    In summary, the development of LAG-3 inhibitors represents a promising frontier in cancer therapy. With a growing pipeline of candidates, expanding research efforts, and increasing commercial interest, the potential for LAG-3 therapies to transform cancer treatment is significant. As the field continues to evolve, it is poised to offer new hope for patients facing challenging diagnoses, underscoring the importance of ongoing innovation in immunotherapy.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Meets Employees at CF Industries and Essential Federal Credit Union

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    BATON ROUGE – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) visited CF Industries’ ammonia production facility in Donaldsonville, and later the Essential Federal Credit Union in Baton Rouge. During both visits, he learned how Louisianans are supporting small businesses and both the local and global economies.

    At CF’s Donaldsonville Complex, Cassidy learned about its capability of producing nearly 8 million tons of nitrogen products for agricultural and industrial use. CF uses the facility’s access to the Mississippi River and other modes of transportation to ship its products to major crop-producing states in the interior of America. They also utilize ocean-going vessels to Europe, South America, and Asia. 
    CF is also working to produce green ammonia and sequester carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere as it produces its products. Thanks to their efforts, they will capture and sequester up to 2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide from its Donaldsonville Complex by 2025. This is in line with Cassidy’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which provided $5.1 billion to invest in carbon capture, utilization, and storage technology.
    “CF Industries and its employees have done more than anyone else in the world to make clean products,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Efforts like this help put the United States at a competitive advantage. We need to do more of this to create more jobs and make a competitive economy.”

    CF’s Donaldsonville Complex supports 566 permanent employees and 640 contractors, generates $16.8 million in annual state and parish sales taxes, and provided $430 million to local suppliers last year. Cassidy was welcomed there by Mr. Morris Johnson, General Manager for the facility.
    “At CF Industries, our mission is to provide clean energy to feed and fuel the world sustainably,” said Mr. Johnson. “To achieve this mission, we are investing in the decarbonization of our network with significant projects underway right here in Ascension Parish at our Donaldsonville Complex, located in the heart of this community we’ve called home for nearly 60 years. We thank Senator Cassidy for his visit to our site and his work on behalf of Donaldsonville and Louisiana through forward-leading competitiveness, energy and trade policies.”

    Later, Cassidy visited the Essential Federal Credit Union, which was chartered in 1972 by a group of Dow Chemical employees and now has more than 46,000 members and $378 million in assets. Cassidy met with Essential’s employees, and also with executives from other local credit unions who discussed how they’re serving their members. He discussed his efforts to preserve the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, make flood insurance rates affordable, and invest in high-speed broadband and water and sewer projects for Louisiana’s rural communities.
    “Our credit unions always know how their communities are doing, since people go to them to finance a house or a small business,” said Dr. Cassidy. “By making flood insurance affordable and investing in rural broadband, we can help more families buy a home or grow their business, which makes our credit unions stronger.”

    Cassidy participated in a roundtable with credit union directors from across Louisiana. He was welcomed by Mr. Anthony Ware, II, Director of Legislative Advocacy for the Louisiana Credit Union Association, of which the Essential Federal Credit Union is a member.
    “Thank you, Senator Cassidy, for taking the time to meet with the Louisiana Credit Union Association powered by Luminate, and visiting Essential Federal Credit Union today,” said Mr. Ware. “We truly appreciate you taking the time to hear from credit unions on the issues that are important to us and vital to helping Louisiana residents. We value your continued support of credit unions as we serve our members and strengthen our communities.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Joint Statement on the 2024 Global Ransomware Initiative

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Today, Canada met with 67 other members at the 4th annual Initiative to Combat Ransomware Summit in Washington DC to enhance international cooperation in this area.

    The 68 members of the international Initiative to Combat Ransomware (ILR)—Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Canada, Chad, Colombia, Costa Rica, Council of Europe, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, ECOWAS, Egypt, Estonia, European Union, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Global Cyber Expertise Forum, Hungary, India, INTERPOL, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Lithuania, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Organization of American States, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vanuatu, and Vietnam—met in Washington, DC from September 30 to October 3 2024 for the fourth ILR gathering. Members who participated in previous editions welcomed Argentina, Bahrain, Cameroon, Chad, the Council of Europe, Denmark, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Finland, the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise, Hungary, Morocco, the Organization of American States, the Philippines, the Republic of Moldova, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Vanuatu and Vietnam as new ILR members.

    During the fourth ILR gathering, members reaffirmed their shared commitment to building collective resilience against ransomware, supporting members if they encounter a ransomware attack, pursuing actors responsible for ransomware attacks and not allowing these actors to operate in their jurisdictions, combating the use of virtual assets as part of the ransomware business model, working with the private sector to advise and support ILR members, and forging international partnerships so that we are collectively better equipped to combat the ransomware scourge.

    Over the past year, this coalition has grown and continues to build on commitments made at the third ILR gathering in 2023. The United States launched a new ILR Member Fund to strengthen members’ cybersecurity capabilities through rapid assistance following a cyberattack as well as targeted support to improve cybersecurity response skills, policies, and procedures.

    Under the Strategic Pillar, led by Singapore and the UK, efforts have been underway to strengthen resilience against ransomware attacks and leverage the ecosystem to disrupt the criminal ransomware industry. These efforts aim to strengthen the operating model that underpins the ransomware ecosystem by focusing work on secure software and labelling, methods to prevent the use of virtual assets as part of the ransomware operating model, policies to reduce ransom payments, increased and improved reporting, cyber insurance, and a playbook to guide businesses on how to prepare for, respond to, and recover from a ransomware attack. It is worth noting that ILR members and insurance bodies have endorsed guidelines to assist organisations that have been hit by a ransomware attack. The guidelines highlight the important role that cyber insurance can play in building resilience to cyberattacks and highlight actions that organizations should consider during an incident. In addition, pillar leaders hosted a tabletop exercise to help members identify gaps in their processes, learn best practices, and develop effective responses to ransomware attacks against the healthcare sector.

    Under the Diplomacy and Capacity Building pillar, led by Germany and Nigeria, ILR partnerships were expanded with the addition of 18 new members to the coalition and members’ capacity building assets and needs were established. To foster collaboration, build new partnerships, and recruit new members to the Initiative, ILR members hosted regional events throughout the year.

    Led by Australia and Lithuania, the Ransomware Working Group (RWWG) has focused its efforts on building resilience against malicious cyberattacks through international cooperation. As co-chairs of the RWWG, Lithuania and Australia developed governance principles for intelligence sharing and improved members’ integration into intelligence sharing platforms led by Lithuania and Belgium, as well as Israel and the United Arab Emirates. These platforms will enable members to easily share threat intelligence and indicators of compromise. As part of a project led by INTERPOL and Australia, a comparative report was produced to analyse ransomware responses and remediation across ILR member jurisdictions. Australia launched an ILR website and portal to facilitate the exchange of information and best practices, foster collaboration, and provide a mechanism for the ILR community to request assistance when members are victims of a ransomware attack. The LRWG Co-Chairs called on members to behave responsibly in cyberspace by encouraging them to hold malicious actors accountable and deny them safe haven using all cyber diplomacy and law enforcement tools at their disposal.

    Canada has established a new public-private sector advisory council to advise and support ILR members in the fight against ransomware. This advisory council will promote effective information sharing, build trust through clear expectations and people-to-people collaboration, and develop best practices to overcome practical barriers.

    ILR also hosted a first-ever event exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to combat ransomware attacks. Topics discussed included using AI to track threat actor usage and software security, scenario planning for ransomware attacks on the healthcare industry, and tools like digital watermarking to counter disinformation.

    Through the annual ILR gathering, hard work, and regional meetings that take place between gatherings, we are committed to working together at the strategic and operational levels to combat ransomware threats and hold the perpetrators of these malicious attacks accountable. The ILR continues to advocate for responsible behavior in cyberspace and encourage members to report malicious acts. We remain committed to using all appropriate tools to achieve these goals and jointly commit to the following actions in support of this mission.

    Media RelationsPublic Safety Canada613-991-0657media@ps-sp.gc.ca

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amata Welcomes House Colleagues and Key Senators in American Samoa

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amatatook part in welcoming key U.S. Senators and her House colleagues as their Congressional Delegation (CODEL) on a U.S. Air Force flight landed in American Samoa, as did Governor Lemanu P.S. Mauga. The bipartisan CODEL included Chairman Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, and two of Amata’s House colleagues, also on influential committees: Congressman Wiley Nickel North Carolina, Finance Committee; and Congressman Greg Pence of Indiana, Energy and Commerce Committee.

    CODEL group photo

    Amata’s bill, H.R. 6062, which expedites American Samoa’s amendments as already approved by the people, is in line for consideration before the same Committee on which Chairman Manchin presides and Sen. Murkowski is a senior senator. Amata spoke to Chairman Manchin about it, and Amata’s House-passed bill is expected to be in front of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources in mid-November, once Congress has resumed, as it has been examined already by a Senate Subcommittee and is moving forward as a noncontroversial bill.

    CODEL in American Samoa with Governor Lemanu Mauga and Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata

    “I also discussed 30a (the American Samoa Economic Development Credit) with Chairman Manchin and Senator Murkowski,” said Congresswoman Aumua Amata. “It’s a crucial tax extender for American Samoa that needs to be extended again. It primarily benefits the cannery but can be used for other businesses.  We need the credit to attract those other businesses besides tuna. The 30a extender is important for the Starkist cannery, which is at full employment of 2500, and supports an equal number or more of indirect jobs. House Ways and Means Chairman Smith is supportive of the credit, but we will need help in the Senate as usual.”

    CODEL enjoyed their time in American Samoa

    “It’s a delight to have these Senators and House colleagues see glimpses of American Samoa’s mountain and ocean beauty from the air and our airport,” she continued. “When I speak with senior Senators and Representatives in Washington, I find without fail that they are genuinely interested, and truly want to be helpful and supportive to American Samoa, and they also understand that we aren’t directly represented in the U.S. Senate. I know they enjoyed the tokens of appreciation that both I and Governor Lemanu Mauga were able to present so they’d have a memory of the people of American Samoa.”

    “I take every opportunity to raise key issues for American Samoa with relevant Members of Congress, especially when our issues are under the jurisdiction of their committees,” she concluded. “I appreciate Chairman Manchin’s effective leadership in the Senate, and I’ve traveled on a CODEL with my friend Senator Murkowski before, and she’s been a good friend of our islands while representing Alaska.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: International Counter Ransomware Initiative 2024 Joint Statement

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Today, Canada met with 67 other members of the International Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI) in Washington D.C for the fourth annual CRI Summit to improve international cooperation in combatting ransomware.

    The 68 members of the International Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI)—Albania, Argentina,  Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Canada, Chad, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Council of Europe, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the Dominican Republic, the ECOWAS Commission, Egypt, Estonia, the European Union, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise, Hungary, India, INTERPOL, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Lithuania, Mexico, Morocco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, the Organization of American States, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of Moldova, Romania, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uruguay, Vanuatu, and Vietnam—met in Washington, D.C. from September 30 – October 3, 2024 for the Fourth CRI Gathering. Previously participating members welcomed Argentina, Bahrain, Cameroon, Chad, the Council of Europe, Denmark, the ECOWAS Commission, Finland, the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise, Hungary, Morocco, the Organization of American States, the Philippines, the Republic of Moldova, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Vanuatu, and Vietnam as new CRI members.

    During the Fourth CRI Gathering, members reaffirmed our joint commitment to develop collective resilience to ransomware, support members if they are faced with a ransomware attack, pursue the actors responsible for ransomware attacks and not allow safe haven for these actors to operate within our jurisdictions, counter the use of virtual assets as part of the ransomware business model, partner with the private sector to advise and support CRI members, and forge international partnerships so we are collectively better equipped to counter the scourge of ransomware.

    Over the past year, this coalition has grown and continues to build upon the commitments made at the Third CRI Gathering in 2023. The United States launched a new fund for CRI members to strengthen members’ cybersecurity capabilities through both rapid assistance in the wake of a cyber attack, as well as targeted support to improve cybersecurity skills, policies, and response procedures.

    The Policy Pillar, led by Singapore and the United Kingdom, spearheaded efforts to build resilience against ransomware attacks and leverage the ecosystem to disrupt the ransomware criminal industry. These efforts seek to undercut the business model that underpins the ransomware ecosystem by driving forward work on secure software and labeling, methods to counter the use of virtual assets as part of the ransomware business model, policies to reduce ransom payments, increase and improve reporting, cyber insurance, and a playbook to guide businesses on how to prepare for, deal with, and recover from a ransomware attack. Of note, CRI members and insurance bodies have endorsed guidance to help organizations experiencing a ransomware attack. The guidance underscores the important role cyber insurance can play in helping to build resilience to cyber attacks and highlights actions organizations should explore during an incident. In addition, the Pillar held a table-top-exercise to assist members in identifying gaps in their processes, learning best practices and supporting members develop effective responses to ransomware attacks on the healthcare sector.

    The Diplomacy and Capacity Building Pillar, led by Germany and Nigeria, expanded the CRI’s partnerships with the addition of 18 new members to the coalition and mapped out the capacity building assets and needs of members. To foster collaboration, forge new partnerships, and recruit new members into the Initiative, CRI members hosted regional events throughout the year.

    Under the leadership of Australia and Lithuania, the ICRTF focused its work on building resilience against malicious cyber attacks through international cooperation. Lithuania and Australia, as ICRTF co-chairs, worked to develop governance for information sharing and increase onboarding of members to the information sharing platforms led by Lithuania and Belgium as well as Israel and UAE. These platforms will allow members to easily share threat information and indicators of compromise. In a project led by INTERPOL and Australia, a comparative report was produced analyzing Ransomware Interventions and Remediation in CRI members’ jurisdictions. Australia launched a website and member portal so CRI members can easily share information and best practices, foster collaboration, and use as a mechanism to request assistance from the CRI community when experiencing a ransomware attack. The ICRTF co-chairs presented a statement for members to join that calls for responsible behavior in cyberspace and encourages members to hold malicious actors accountable and deny them safe haven using all of the cyber diplomacy and law enforcement tools at their disposal.

    Canada established a new Public-Private Sector Advisory Panel to advise and support CRI members in combating ransomware. This advisory panel will catalyze effective information sharing, build trust through clear expectations and person to person collaboration, and develop best practices to navigate practical hurdles.

    The Initiative also hosted its first-ever event dedicated to examining the use of AI to counter ransomware attacks. Topics of discussion included the use of AI to track threat actor use, AI for Software Security, scenario planning around ransomware attacks on the healthcare industry, and tools such as watermarking to counter disinformation.

    Through the Initiative’s annual gathering as well as the dedicated work and regional meetings occurring between each meeting, we commit to working together at both a policy and operational level to counter ransomware threats and hold perpetrators of these malicious attacks accountable. CRI continues to call for responsible behavior in cyberspace and encourage members to call out malicious acts, and we remain committed to using all appropriate tools to achieve these goals, and are jointly committed to the following actions in support of this mission.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone and inaugurates various projects worth over Rs 80,000 crore in Hazaribag, Jharkhand

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone and inaugurates various projects worth over Rs 80,000 crore in Hazaribag, Jharkhand

    Launches Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan to benefit 63000 tribal villages in about 550 districts

    Inaugurates 40 Eklavya Schools and also lays foundation stone for 25 Eklavya Schools

    Inaugurates and lays foundation stone for multiple projects under PM-JANMAN

    “Today’s projects are proof of the Government’s priority towards tribal society”

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 3:56PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various projects worth over Rs 80,000 crore in Hazaribag, Jharkhand today. Shri Modi launched Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, inaugurated 40 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) and laid the foundation stone for 25 EMRS, and inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple projects under Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN).

    Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude for becoming a part of Jharkhand’s development journey and recalled visiting Jamshedpur a few days ago to inaugurate development projects worth hundreds of crores. Shri Modi mentioned handing over pucca houses to thousands of poor from Jharkhand under PM Awas Yojna. Referring to today’s projects related to the empowerment and welfare of tribal communities worth more than Rs 80,000 crore, the Prime Minister said that it is proof of the government’s priority towards tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi congratulated the people of Jharkhand and India for the projects of today.

    Noting the occasion of Mahatma Gandhiji’s birth anniversary, the Prime Minister said that his vision and ideas towards tribal welfare are India’s capital. Mahatma Gandhi believed, the Prime Minister said, that India can only progress when the tribal societies progress at a fast pace. Shri Modi expressed satisfaction that the present government is paying maximum attention to tribal upliftment and mentioned launching Dharti Aaba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan today where 63,000 tribal-dominated villages will be developed in about 550 districts at a cost of about Rs 80,000 crore. Prime Minister Modi informed that work would be done to improve the socio-economic life in these tribal-dominated villages and the benefits would reach more than 5 crore tribal brothers and sisters of the country. “The tribal society of Jharkhand will also benefit greatly from this”, he added.

    The Prime Minister expressed happiness that Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan was being started from the land of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. PM also recalled that on the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, PM-Janman Yojana was launched from Jharkhand. He announced that on 15th November 2024, on Janjati Gaurav Diwas, India will celebrate the first anniversary of PM-Janman Yojana. He added that through the PM-Janman Yojana, the fruits of development were reaching those tribal areas of the country which were left behind. Shri Modi highlighted that under PM-Janman Yojana, the foundation stone of development works worth about 1350 crore rupees was laid today. Speaking about the scheme, he underlined that facilities like education, health and roads will be built for a better life in the most backward tribal areas.

    Highlighting the multiple achievements of PM-Janman Yojana in Jharkhand in its first year itself, Shri Modi said that the work of providing water to every house in more than 950 very backward villages was completed. He added that 35 Vandhan Vikas Kendras were also approved in the state. The Prime Minister also highlighted the work being done to connect remote tribal areas with mobile connectivity which would help transform the tribal society by providing equal opportunity for progress.

    The Prime Minister emphasized that the tribal society will progress when tribal youth get education and opportunities. For this, Shri Modi said, the Government is engaged in a campaign to build Eklavya residential schools in tribal areas. Referring to the inauguration of 40 Eklavya residential schools and laying the foundation of 25 new ones today, the Prime Minister affirmed that Eklavya schools should be equipped with all modern facilities and impart a high standard of education. For this, he added, Government has also almost doubled the budget of every school.

    The Prime Minister underlined that positive results are achieved when correct efforts are made. He expressed confidence that the tribal youth would move forward and the country would benefit from their capabilities.

    Governor of Jharkhand, Shri Santosh Gangwar and Minister of Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram were present on the occasion among others.

    Background

    In line with his commitment to ensure comprehensive and holistic development of the tribal communities across the country, the Prime Minister launched Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan with a total outlay of over Rs 80,000 crore. The Abhiyan will cover around 63,000 villages benefitting more than 5 crore tribal people in 549 districts and 2,740 blocks across 30 States and UTs. It aims to attain saturation of critical gaps in social infrastructure, health, education and livelihood through 25 interventions implemented by various 17 Ministries and Department of Government of India.

    In order to boost the educational infrastructure for the tribal communities, the Prime Minister inaugurated 40 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) and laid the foundation stone for 25 EMRS worth over Rs 2,800 crore.

    The Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple projects under Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) worth over Rs 1360 crore. It includes more than 1380 km of road, 120 Anganwadis, 250 multi-purpose centers and 10 school hostels. Further, he also unveiled a series of landmark achievements under PM JANMAN, which include electrification of more than 75,800 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) households in around 3,000 Villages, operationalization of 275 Mobile medical units, operationalization of 500 Anganwadi centers, establishment of 250 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras and saturation of more than 5,550 PVTG Villages with ‘Nal se Jal’.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Education in collaboration with NSS organises Swachhata Campaign under theme “Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata ”at Sri Venkateswara College, University of Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary, Department of Higher Education (DoHE), Ministry of Education, participated in a Swachhata Campaign under the theme of Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata commemorating the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri at the Sri Venkateswara College (SVC), University of Delhi, today. The Ministry of Education organised the event in collaboration with the National Service Scheme (NSS).

    Additional Secretary, DoHE, Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal; Joint Secretary (DoHE) Smt. Neeta Prasad; Joint Secretary (DoHE), Shri Ekram Rizvi; Joint Secretary (DoHE), Smt. Rina Sonowal Kouli; Shri Chaitanya Prasad, officials of the Ministry along with Prof. V Ravi, Principal, SVC; Prof. K Chandramani, Vice-Principal, SVC and other faculty members were also present at the event.

    Shri K. Sanjay Murthy and other dignitaries planted five trees under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Campaign at the college premises. They also participated in cleaning a black spot/cleanliness target unit (CTU) near the Satyaniketan bus stand near the college. NSS members, NSS volunteers of the college, RWA representatives, social workers and MCD staff joined them in thoroughly cleaning the place.

    The Secretary urged the locals to maintain the cleanliness of the place in future and also ensured the help of the College in this regard if needed. He also motivated the students to participate in the cleanliness drive in the future. He also answered their queries regarding the National Education Policy 2020. The students shared their experiences and teaching while working in the NSS. 

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIAN AIR FORCE CELEBRATES SWACHHATA DIWAS – REAFFIRMING COMMITMENT TO CLEANLINESS AND SUSTAINABILITY

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 3:58PM by PIB Delhi

    The Indian Air Force (IAF) today observed Swachhata Diwas in alignment with the nation-wide “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan,” marking another significant step towards maintaining cleanliness and environmental sustainability. The event, held on the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri, reiterates IAF’s dedication to fostering cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental awareness across its units and bases.

    Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, led the initiative by participating in a cleanliness drive at Air HQ Vayu Bhawan alongside senior officers, airmen, and civilian staff. He emphasized the importance of cleanliness not just as a routine activity but as a national responsibility, quoting Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a clean and self-reliant India.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi takes part in cleanliness drive with youngsters marking 10 years of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 4:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today took part in a cleanliness drive with young school children in Delhi and interacted with them marking 10 years of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

    Upon the Prime Minister’s enquiry about the benefits of cleanliness, the student mentioned prevention from ailments and the vision to create awareness about a cleaner and healthier India. A student also mentioned the rise in the spread of diseases due to the absence of toilets. Shri Modi informed that most people were compelled to defecate in the open earlier which led to the widespread of a multitude of diseases, and was extremely disadvantageous for women. The Prime Minister informed that the first steps were taken with the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan where separate toilets were built for girls in schools which led to a sharp reduction in their dropout rates.

    The Prime Minister further discussed today’s occasion of the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi ji and Lal Bahadur Shastri ji. Shri Modi expressed satisfaction with the growing number of youth engaging in Yoga and also highlighted the benefits of asana. A few children also demonstrated a few asanas to the Prime Minister drawing huge applause. He also stressed the need for good nutrition. Upon the Prime Minister’s enquiry about the PM-Sukanya Yojna, a student elaborated on the scheme and said that it enables opening up a bank account for girls to assist them financially when they grow up to become adults. The Prime Minister explained that a PM Sukanya Samruddhi account can be opened for girls as soon as they are born and suggested depositing Rs 1000 every year which can be used for education and marriage later in life. He informed that the same deposit would rise to Rs 50,000 in 18 years with an interest received of about Rs 32,000 to Rs 35,000. PM Modi said that girls receive interest up to 8.2 percent.

    The Prime Minister also took a walkthrough of the exhibition featuring the works of children focussed on cleanliness. He shared his experience of a school in a barren region in Gujarat where each student was assigned a tree and asked to water it every day by urging them to carry water from their kitchens. The Prime Minister said that he had witnessed an unprecedented transformation in the form of greenery when he visited the same school after 5 years. The Prime Minister also threw light on the benefits of waste segregation to produce compost and encouraged the students to follow this practice at home. He also suggested creating awareness about the ills of plastic in their community and substituting it with a cloth bag.

    Further interacting with the children, Shri Modi pointed to the spectacles of Gandhiji on a display board and impressed upon the children that Gandhiji keeps a watch on whether cleanliness is maintained or not. He said Gandhiji worked towards cleanliness throughout his life. Sharing an anecdote, Shri Modi told the children that when Gandhiji was given a choice between freedom and cleanliness, Gandhiji chose cleanliness over freedom as he valued cleanliness more than everything. Upon enquiring the students whether cleanliness should be a programme or a habit, the children answered cleanliness should be a habit in unison. He informed the children that cleanliness is not a responsibility of a single individual or a single family or a one-time event, but it is a continuous process until an individual is alive. He informed the students that the mantra of “I will not dirty my surroundings” should be adopted by every citizen of the country. The Prime Minister made the children take a pledge of cleanliness.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Active Participation of Ministry of Panchayati Raj in Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan 2024

    Source: Government of India

    Active Participation of Ministry of Panchayati Raj in Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan 2024

    Ministry of Panchayati Raj reaffirms commitment to cleanliness and integrating swachhata into daily life

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 4:31PM by PIB Delhi

    In alignment with the principles of Swachhata Hi Seva, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) reaffirms its commitment to promoting cleanliness as an integral part of daily life, values, and practices. As part of the nine-point pre-action plan, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj undertook various activities during the Swachhata Hi Seva–2024 (SHS–2024) campaign, which took place from 17th September 2024 to 2nd October 2024.

    On the penultimate day of SHS-2024 campaign i.e. on 2nd October 2024, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj Shri Vivek Bharadwaj led the officers and employees in participating in the cleanliness drive (Shramdaan) in the Block–A area of Connaught Place (Rajiv Chowk).  On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of Swachh Bharat Diwas, he extended his best wishes to everyone and encouraged adopting cleanliness as in integral part of our nature and values in daily life. About 70 employees participated in the cleanliness drive around the Block–A area of Connaught Place (Rajiv Chowk) on this day and removed about 100 kgs of garbage consisting of small plastic pieces, disposal mugs, cups and similar material. While leading the cleanliness drive, Shri Bharadwaj appreciated the efforts of the employees and emphasized maintaining the momentum throughout the year.  He also encouraged the employees to volunteer by adopting a high-footfall area and taking responsibility for its cleanliness in coordination with relevant authorities, in addition to their own contributions through shramdaan. 

    All the housekeeping staff were felicitated today in recognition of their regular risky job of cleanliness of the office premises, Jeevan Bharati Building, Jeevan Prakash Building and Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi. 

    Throughout Swachhata Hi Seva–2024 campaign, officers and employees of the Ministry actively engaged in shramdaan, dedicating time each day to clean, dust, and polish their workspaces and furniture. On 20th September 2024, employees situated on the 11th floor of the Jeevan Prakash Building, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, New Delhi participated in a comprehensive cleanliness drive, focusing on both their office premises and the surrounding areas of the building. Subsequently, on 27th September 2024, staff members working in the Ministry on the 9th floor of the Jeevan Bharati Building contributed by cleaning the Regal Building areas. On both occasions, approximately 100 employees participated in these cleanliness initiatives, showcasing their collective effort and commitment to fostering a clean and healthy work environment.       

    On 23rd September 2024, an interactive meeting with the Safai Karmacharis (housekeeping staff) was held to know the health issue, if any of the house keeping staff for offering health facility proposed on 25th September 2024. Since none of the 14 members of the house keeping staff reported any health issue, no camp was set up. 

    The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has consistently played a pivotal role in all previous editions of the Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan. In 2024, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj demonstrated even greater vigour, zeal, and attentiveness in advancing the objectives of the campaign, which has been successfully fulfilled through the proactive participation of citizens, Panchayats, and officials at all levels. In a joint advisory issued on 12th September 2024, the Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, along with the Secretary, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), Ministry of Jal Shakti, and the Secretary, Department of Rural Development (DoRD), Ministry of Rural Development, appealed to all Panchayati Raj Institutions and Rural Local Bodies to actively participate in the Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan–2024. The advisory outlined suggested activities aimed at enhancing cleanliness and fostering people’s participation, while encouraging behavioural changes aligned with the campaign’s theme, “स्वभाव स्वच्छता, संस्कार स्वच्छता” (Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskar Swachhata). Key initiatives include mega cleanliness drives, Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivirs, cultural festivals, Swachh Food Streets, and widespread public participation and advocacy.

    On 13th September 2024, Shri Vivek Bhardwaj participated in the inauguration program of the Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan–2024, alongside Union Minister for Housing & Urban Affairs and Power, Shri Manohar Lal; Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C. R. Patil; State Ministers, Secretaries, and Mission Directors. During the curtain-raiser event, the message (https://youtu.be/_T0PrEOK0W8) from the Union Minister of Panchayati Raj Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, was also broadcast, setting the tone for the nationwide campaign. Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh called upon elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions to lead the Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan in rural India by promoting the message of cleanliness through their exemplary conduct and leadership. Shri Vivek Bhardwaj emphasized the critical role of the three-tier Panchayati Raj Institutions in the Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan. A notable highlight was the interaction of Smt. Sanyogita Singh Chauhan, Gram Pradhan of Atari Gram Panchayat, Block: Mal, District: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, with Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal. Smt. Chauhan shared the significant cleanliness initiatives undertaken by her Gram Panchayat and reaffirmed her Panchayat’s commitment to actively participating in this year’s campaign under the theme “Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskar Swachhata”.

    In the lead-up to the campaign, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj planted a Rudraksha (Elaeocarpus Ganitrus) sapling at Children’s Park, India Gate, New Delhi, as part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative on 5th September 2024, dedicating it to his mother. Senior officials from the Ministry, including Dr. Bijaya Kumar Behera, Economic Adviser and Shri Vikas Anand, Joint Secretary participated in similar tree-planting activities in Odisha and Maharashtra respectively during this year’s Swachhata Hi Seva Abhiyan. As part of the campaign, a Swachhata Pledge was administered to all officers and staff (regular, contractual, and outsourced) of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj on 17th September 2024, reinforcing the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to a cleaner, healthier India.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister greets the citizens on occasion of Mahalaya

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today wished the citizens on occasion of Mahalaya.

    “Shubho Mahalaya! As Durga Puja approaches, we pray that hope, goodness and positivity shall always prevail. May Maa Durga always bless us with happiness, strength and good health.”

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal Promotes Khadi on Gandhi Jayanti, Urges Support for Local Industry

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

    On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal shopped Khadi Garments from the Jagaran shop in Naharkatia, Dibrugarh today. Shri Sonowal was accompanied by Rameswar Teli, MP (Rajya Sabha) & Taranga Gogoi, MLA (Naharkatia).

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The great son of India, Mahatma Gandhi always championed the local industry especially handlooms and called upon people to embrace local products produced by weavers of India. The clarion call of Vocal for Local by Honourable PM Narendra Modi echoes a similar message as we must encourage our local industries by buying local, supporting our local industries. Let us join hands to take this wonderful initiative forward.”

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Modi greets Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu on occasion of Rosh Hashanah

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 5:15PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today wished Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu on occasion of Rosh Hashanah. He also greeted the people of Israel and the Jewish community across the world on their new year.

    “Best wishes on Rosh Hashanah to my friend PM @netanyahu, the people of Israel and the Jewish community across the world. May the new year bring peace, hope and good health in everyone’s life.
    Shana Tova!”

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Swachhata among the most discussed topics during Mann Ki Baat: Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Swachhata among the most discussed topics during Mann Ki Baat: Prime Minister

    PM highlights life journey of people working to make India Swachh

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 5:56PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has underlined that Swachhata has been among the most discussed topics during Mann Ki Baat.

    Sharing a post on X by narendramodi_in handle, the Prime Minister wrote:

    “Swachhata has indeed been among the most discussed topics during Mann Ki Baat. We have highlighted life journeys of exemplary people working to make India Swachh.

    #10YearsOfSwachhBharat”

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Swachh Bharat Abhiyan a phenomenal movement powered by 140 crore Indians: Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 5:48PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has lauded the completion of 10 years of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and remarked that it is a phenomenal movement, powered by 140 crore Indians. 

    Reposting a thread on X by MyGovIndia, the Prime Minister wrote:

    “A phenomenal movement, powered by 140 crore Indians! #10YearsOfSwachhBharat “

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Spearheads Coastal Cleanup Drive from Porbandar, Gujarat; Kicks Off Nationwide Beach Cleanliness Drive as part of 10 Years of Swachh Bharat Mission

    Source: Government of India

    Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Spearheads Coastal Cleanup Drive from Porbandar, Gujarat; Kicks Off Nationwide Beach Cleanliness Drive as part of 10 Years of Swachh Bharat Mission

    Union Minister Pays Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi Ji on his Birth Anniversary

    Over 1,00,000 MY Bharat Youth Volunteers Join Effort to Remove Single-Use Plastic Across 1,000 Locations Along India’s Coastline

    As part of Swachhata Hi Seva campaign, over 60 Lakh MY Bharat Youth Volunteers Removed Millions of Kilograms of Waste Across India

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 5:43PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, spearheaded a nationwide Coastal and Beach Cleanliness Drive organized by MY Bharat from Porbandar, Gujarat on Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti today. This large-scale event marked the culmination of the “Swachhata Hi Seva” campaign, which has been ongoing since September 17, 2024, under the theme “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata.”

    Leading by example, Dr. Mandaviya inaugurated the drive from Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, while over 1,00,000 MY Bharat youth volunteers simultaneously took part in cleanup efforts across 1,000 locations along India’s coastline. Volunteers focused on removing single-use plastic and other waste materials from beaches, contributing to cleaner coastal environments.

    Dr. Mandaviya, addressing volunteers in Porbandar, acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and leadership in launching the Swachh Bharat Mission a decade ago. “As we celebrate 10 years of the Swachh Bharat Mission, this nationwide effort is a fitting tribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a clean India. Our youth, through their remarkable participation today, have taken Mahatma Gandhiji’s ideals forward by committing to environmental responsibility and sustainability. Eliminating single-use plastic is just one step in this journey, and the dedication displayed today will propel India toward a cleaner, greener future,” he said.

    After participating in the coastal cleanliness drive, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at the Kirti Mandir in Porbandar. Reflecting on Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals and principles, he offered floral tributes in remembrance of his invaluable contributions to India’s freedom movement and philosophy of non-violence.

    Following this, Dr. Mandaviya honoured Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of self-reliance by purchasing Khadi garments from the Porbandar Khadi Bhandar. He highlighted the significance of Khadi, which Mahatma Gandhi had elevated as a symbol of the Swadeshi movement and a cornerstone of India’s journey towards self-sufficiency.  

    The nationwide drive, conducted across India’s coastline, resulted in the removal of significant amounts of waste, particularly single-use plastics. Volunteers from coastal areas participated enthusiastically in the initiative, demonstrating the collective power of youth in environmental stewardship.

    Since the beginning of the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign on 17th September 2024, more than 60 lakh MY Bharat youth volunteers have engaged in cleanliness drives across the country. Their combined efforts have led to the removal of millions of kilograms of waste from over 1.19 lakh villages, 17,000+ community centres, and 9,900+ Amrit Sarovars, making a notable impact in both rural and urban India.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Geological Survey of India conducts Swachhata Hi Seva campaign at Shyok-Nubra valley in Ladakh

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 6:02PM by PIB Delhi

    As part of the Government of India’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan initiative, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) conducted a successful Swachhata / cleanliness drive at the Geo-heritage Site “Land of Cold Desert, Shyok-Nubra valley” on 01-10-2024. This initiative was part of the “Swachhata Hi Seva” campaign, which ran from 17th September to 1st October, 2024, aligning with the theme “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata” that emphasizes cleanliness as an inherent behavior. The Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 campaign is a nationwide initiative that aims to promote cleanliness and a healthier India through a collaborative approach and focusing on three key pillars: Swachhata Ki Bhagidaari, Sampoorna Swachhata including Swachhata Lakshit Ekayi and Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivirs. The campaign is part of extensive cleanliness drives by GSI accompanied by plantation activities, and outreach programs for maintaining the environmental aesthetics, sustainable geo-tourism development and geo-heritage conservation.

    The Swachhata Campaign witnessed a collaborative effort for the cleanliness drive, bringing together the personnel from Geological Survey of India (GSI), Department of Geology and Mining (DGM), UT, Ladakh, Local administration officials, representatives from Indian Army, Diskit Gonpa, Diskit degree College, inter-college, students, other participating organizations and local people. Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, graced the occasion and participated in the Swachhata Campaign as the Chief Guest. Shri Rajinder Kumar, Additional Director General and Head of Department (HOD) of the Geological Survey of India, Northern Region, and Shri. P.S. Misra, Dy. Director General SU: UT: J&K, and UT: Ladakh also joined the Swachhata Campaign, participating alongside the Secretary, Ministry of Mines. The campaign witnessed the successful cleanliness drive at Nubra Valley’s breathtaking Land of Cold Desert, Shyok-Nubra valley Geo-Tourist Site. The Secretary, Ministry of Mines emphasized on the importance of Swachhata Hi Seva and asked the participants and students to adopt the SHS mission.

    The breathtaking Ladakh region is renowned for its remote mountain beauty, rich culture, and stunning geological marvels. The Geoheritage Site “Land of Cold Desert, Shyok-Nubra Valley” of the UT: Ladakh has been recognized by the Geological Survey of India, Ministry of Mines, Government of India, for its exceptional geological significance. Such geoheritage sites are treasure troves of geo-relics, phenomena, and geological structures that hold national and international interest.

    Located at the confluence of the Shyok and Nubra rivers near Diskit, the Shyok-Nubra valley boasts unique geological features. The presence of sand dunes, reminiscent of Rajasthan’s deserts, attracts tourists who can experience the thrill of double-hump camel rides. At an altitude of 3048 m above mean sea level, these dunes are the largest in the Trans-Himalayan region. These sand dunes hold particular interest for geologists, indicating climatic variations in this high-altitude terrain. Situated along the riverbanks, they offer valuable insights into Quaternary geological studies. The Shyok-Nubra valley also exposes an ophiolite rock bearing suture zone, immensely important for understanding the Himalayan evolution and journey of Indian tectonic plate.

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    ST

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President of India to visit Rajasthan from October 3 to 4

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 6:27PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu will visit Rajasthan from October 3 to 4, 2024. 

     On October 3, the President will grace the 32nd convocation of Mohanlal Sukhadia University at Udaipur. 

    On October 4, the President will grace the Global Summit on the theme ‘Spirituality for Clean and Healthy Society’, being organised by the Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya at Mount Abu. On the same day, she will also grace the Adi Gaurav Samman Samaroh, being organised by the Government of Rajasthan, at Mangarh Dham, Banswara.  

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Unique success story of a government initiative in the history of independent India…. Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi’s “Swachhata” call from Red Fort turned into a mass campaign”, says Minister Dr Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India (2)

    “Unique success story of a government initiative in the history of independent India…. Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi’s “Swachhata” call from Red Fort turned into a mass campaign”, says Minister Dr Jitendra Singh

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Launches Special Campaign 4.0, Pledges to Institutionalize Cleanliness on Gandhi Jayanti

    Over 355.5 Lakh Sq. Ft of Office Space Freed in Previous Campaigns; Rs. 1162.49 Crore Earned from E-Waste and scrap Disposal

    Minister Acknowledges Prime Minister’s Leadership in Making Swachhata a Behavioural Revolution

    Leads Shramdaan and Plantation Drives, Honors SafaiMitras for Their Crucial Role in Cleanliness Movement

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 6:16PM by PIB Delhi

    “It is a unique success story of a government initiative in the history of independent India…. Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi’s “Swachhata” call from Red Fort turned into a mass campaign, which motivated a spontaneous voluntary effort to maintain cleanliness and brought about a behavioural revolution among people across the country”.

    This was stated here today by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh while launching, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, Special Campaign 4.0 under the Government of India’s “Swachhata Hi Sewa” programme, reiterating the Government’s deep commitment to cleanliness, public hygiene, and service.

    Leading two events at the national capital here, one at Nehru Park, organised by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), and another at Prithvi Bhawan hosted by the Ministry of Earth Sciences ,  Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised the Government’s efforts to institutionalise cleanliness and reduce administrative pendency.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh hailed the success of the previous campaigns and shared the remarkable achievements of the previous three campaigns, which have led to significant gains which include Rs. 1162.49 crore generated through the disposal of e-waste and scrap,  355.6 lakh sq. ft. of office space cleared for productive use, 96.1 lakh files closed or weeded out, 4.05 lakh cleanliness sites identified and cleaned etc.     

    Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh participating in Swachh Bharat Diwas programme at New Delhi on Wednesday.

    The Minister thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for addressing the foundational issue of cleanliness through the Swachhata campaign. He emphasised that the Prime Minister’s vision has transformed Swachhata from a government-led initiative into a behavioural revolution. “The Swachhata campaign has become ingrained in the psyche of the people,” Dr. Jitendra Singh remarked, noting how rarely a government campaign becomes a mass movement that changes public attitudes. “Today, cleanliness is not just a government directive, but a core value embraced by citizens.”

    Dr. Jitendra Singh further stated that the ongoing Special Campaign 4.0 aims to institutionalise these behavioural changes across government offices, with a focus on reducing administrative pendency and optimising public service.

    Human-Centric Highlights of the Day include 1) Swachh Anjali: Dr. Jitendra Singh, along with senior officials, paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi by offering ‘Swachh aanjali,’ reaffirming the Government’s commitment to Gandhi’s vision of a clean India. “Today’s tribute to the Father of the Nation is a reminder of the legacy we are carrying forward through these cleanliness drives,” 2) Plantation Drive – Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam: At both Nehru Park and Prithvi Bhawan, Dr. Jitendra Singh planted saplings as part of the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative, symbolising the Government’s focus on environmental sustainability. “Each sapling planted today stands for a future rooted in sustainability,” he shared.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also honoured “Safai Mitras” by distributing safety kits and sweets, acknowledging their crucial role in the campaign’s success. “Our SafaiMitrasare at the heart of this campaign. Their dedication is an example of true public service,” Dr. Singh noted.

    Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh participating in Swachh Bharat Diwas programme at New Delhi on Wednesday.

    In addition, the Minister led the “Shramdaan” activities at Nehru Park and Prithvi Bhawan, joined by officials from DARPG and the Ministry of Earth Sciences. Their hands-on participation reinforced the message of civic responsibility and the importance of collective action in keeping public spaces clean.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh commended the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) for achieving remarkable success in the earlier campaigns, leading to the freeing up of over 355 lakh sq. ft. of office space and generating revenue from scrap disposal. He also lauded the Ministry of Earth Sciences for its efforts in cleaning 96 beaches across the country, an initiative that reflects the Government’s commitment to keeping not only office spaces but also public spaces clean.

    In his closing remarks, Dr. JitendraSingh reiterated how the Swachhata Campaign had empowered women in its early stages by constructing over 4 lakh toilets, and how the movement has now grown to tackle issues like wealth generation from waste. “Special Campaign 4.0 is about turning waste into wealth, and making cleanliness a permanent feature of public life,” he added.Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary, DARPG, and Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, along with senior officials from both ministries, actively participated in the events.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address at the laying of foundation stone, inauguration and dedication of various projects at Hazaribagh, Jharkhand

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 4:37PM by PIB Delhi

    Johar!

    Honorable Governor of Jharkhand, Shri Santosh Gangwar ji, my colleague in the Union Cabinet, Shri Jual Oram ji, my fellow minister and daughter of this land, Annapurna Devi ji, Sanjay Seth ji, Shri Durgadas Uikey ji, MP from this constituency, Shri Manish Jaiswal ji, all public representatives, and my brothers and sisters present here!

    Today, I have once again been blessed with the opportunity to be a part of Jharkhand’s developmental journey. Just a few days ago, I visited Jamshedpur. I inaugurated development projects worth hundreds of crores of rupees for Jharkhand from Jamshedpur. Thousands of poor people in Jharkhand received their own permanent homes under the PM-Awas Yojana. And I am here again within just a few days. Today, over 80,000 crore worth of development projects have been either inaugurated or had their foundation stones laid in Jharkhand. These projects are associated with the welfare and upliftment of the tribal community. These projects are a testament to the priority of the Government of Bharat for the tribal community across the nation. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the people of Jharkhand and the entire country for these development initiatives.

    Friends,

    Today is the birth anniversary of Pujya Bapu Mahatma Gandhi. His vision and ideas for tribal development are a treasure for us. Gandhi ji believed that Bharat’s development could only be achieved when the tribal community progressed rapidly. I am happy that today our government is focusing more than ever on the upliftment of the tribal community. I have just launched a major program, the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan. Around 80,000 crore rupees will be spent on this scheme. The development of around 63,000 tribal-majority villages across 550 districts will be carried out under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan. Efforts will be made to improve the socio-economic conditions and the quality of life in these tribal-dominated villages. This initiative will benefit over 5 crore of my tribal brothers and sisters across the country. The tribal community of Jharkhand will also reap significant benefits from this initiative.

    Friends,

    I am delighted that the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan is being launched from the land of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. The PM-JANMAN Yojana was also launched in Jharkhand on the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Next month, we will celebrate the first anniversary of the PM-JANMAN Yojana on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Day) on November 15. Through the PM-JANMAN Yojana, development is now reaching those tribal areas that were once left behind, where no one paid attention. Today, development works worth around 1,300 crore rupees have also been inaugurated under the PM-JANMAN Yojana. Education, healthcare, and road facilities will be built to improve life in these most backward tribal areas under this scheme.

    Brothers and sisters,

    In just one year, the PM-JANMAN Yojana has achieved many milestones in Jharkhand. In over 950 of the most backward villages, the task of providing water to every household has been completed. Thirty-five Van Dhan Vikas Kendras have also been approved in the state. Additionally, work is underway to connect remote tribal areas with mobile connectivity. This development, this change, will provide equal opportunities for progress to our tribal community.

    Friends,

    Our tribal society will progress when its youth are provided with quality educational opportunities. Our government is working diligently on the mission to build Eklavya Residential Schools in tribal areas in this regard. Today, 40 Eklavya Residential Schools have been inaugurated from here. The foundation stones for 25 new Eklavya schools have also been laid. We have doubled the budget for each school to ensure they are equipped with modern facilities and offer high-standard education.

    Brothers and sisters,

    When the right efforts are made, the right results follow. I believe that our tribal youths will make progress, and the nation will benefit from their potential.

    Friends,

    I am not going to give a long speech here, as I will soon be heading to a big fair of the tribal community about 3-4 kilometers away from here. I will speak my heart out, and I will speak passionately. So, respecting the decorum of this government program, I will not make this speech long. However, even in such a government program, if there are so many people gathered, they will say, “Oh… the program was huge.” But this was just a small arrangement for the government program; the bigger event will happen shortly. If this program is this big, just imagine how grand the other program will be. Today, as soon as I landed, I saw the amazing love and support of my brothers and sisters of Jharkhand. This love and blessing will give me the strength to serve the tribal community even more. With this spirit, once again, I congratulate you all on these development works, and I thank you very much. I also hope that you all will definitely come there, and I will have the opportunity to speak about many more issues.

    Jai Johar!

    ***

    MJPS/KS/VK/SKS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ayush Ministry celebrates “Swachhata Hi Seva” Campaign with 670 Activities across the country

    Source: Government of India

    Ayush Ministry celebrates “Swachhata Hi Seva” Campaign with 670 Activities across the country

    Together, we have contributed towards fulfilling the vision of our Prime Minister for a clean and hygienic India: Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 6:33PM by PIB Delhi

    On the auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the Ministry of Ayush celebrated the culmination of the “Swachhata Hi Seva” Campaign, organizing 670 activities across the country and reaffirming its commitment to the Swachh Bharat mission.

    351 Swachhata Mein Jan Bhagidari Activities, 201 Safai Mitra Suraksha camps, and 118 comprehensive cleanliness programs were organized across the country. The campaign, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary initiative, highlighted the importance of cleanliness.

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, lauded the efforts of the Ayush Ministry’s team in making the campaign a success. He said, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire team of Ayush Ministry for their dedication in making the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign successful. Together, we have contributed towards fulfilling the vision of our Hon’ble Prime Minister for a clean and hygienic India.”

    He further added “The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Ministry of Jal Shakti, must be praised for their hard work and commitment which worked extensively for success of this campaign under the visionary leadership of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to bring a significant improvement in the daily health and well-being of citizens of India”

    As part of the celebrations, the Ayush Ministry organized a “Swachhata Hi Seva” procession, which witnessed enthusiastic participation from the public and ministry officials, raising awareness about the importance of cleanliness and sanitation.

    Under the three Key Pillars of “Swachhata Hi Seva” campaign Ministry of Ayush organized activities across the country:

    1. Swchhata Me Jan Bhagidari  – The ministry successfully conducted 351 events encouraging public involvement in cleanliness drives.
    2. Sampoorn Swachhata  – A total of 118 events were held focusing on complete cleanliness in various areas.
    3. Safai Mitra Suraksha – 201 Safai Mitra Suraksha camps were organized to ensure the safety and well-being of sanitation workers.

    Through this campaign, the Ayush Ministry has made significant strides in promoting hygiene, sanitation, and public involvement, contributing to the larger vision of a Swachh Bharat.

    Ms. Bhawana Saxena, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush and Shri Subodh Kumar, Director Ayush, along with other senior officers, conducted an inspection of the cleanliness efforts in their offices. All officers actively participated by cleaning their own rooms, reinforcing the ministry’s commitment to maintaining a hygienic work environment.

    *****

    MV/AKS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘Swachhata Hi Sewa’ Campaign from 17th September to 1st October 2024 in Department of Science and Technology (DST)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 7:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Science and Technology conducted the ‘Swachhata Hi Sewa’ Campaign in the different buildings of Department and across all its Autonomous Bodies and subordinate offices of DST spread across various parts of the country.

    Under ‘Swachhata Hi Sewa’ Campaign, Secretary, DST administered Swachhata pledge to all the officials of DST to create awareness and commitment for a clean and garbage free India. All the 26 Autonomous Bodies and subordinate offices under Ministry of Science and Technology participated in the campaign and celebrated it as a festival of cleanliness.

    Various activities were planned by the Department of Science and Technology which included Painting Competition for students of classes 6th to 10th from various parts of the country on the theme ‘Clean India of my Dream’.

    Activities relating to vermicomposting of the organic waste generated in Departmental Canteen, office campus of DST, Autonomous Institutions and Survey of India offices all over India to regulate landfills and reduce pollution, fostering the creation of wealth from waste.

    Preventive Health Checkup for sanitation workers of DST was conducted during the period. Safety gears and cleanliness tools were distributed to the sanitation workers of DST. Four (4) Lecture cum Awareness Sessions on “Cleanliness & its impact on health” were conducted in Government and private Schools and Biodegradable items were distributed in Govt. Schools spread in the vicinity of Technology Bhawan. Shramdaan activity was organized during which officers/scientists of DST were engaged in cleaning the surrounding areas of Technology Bhawan.

    Cleaning, repair of equipments, beautification of the campus and disposal of waste was done in Vigyan Sadan and the premises of DST. Auction of the unserviceable items of Vigyan Sadan and weeding out of old papers lying in the reception block of Technology Bhawan was done. Extensive cleaning of the Departmental Canteen and area behind the Old S&T Block was carried out. A total of 15 trucks loaded with horticulture and other waste materials were removed from the site.

    Provision for natural lighting was made in the dark areas of Technology Bhawan. Plantation drive was conducted under the initiative ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ in Technology Bhawan and nearby schools. Multiple Yoga Sessions were also organized for the DST officials in which participation of the women employees was seen in large numbers. Also, sanitary napkin vending machine along with incinerator machine was installed in fourteen female washrooms in Technology Bhawan to ensure a clean and female friendly workplace.

    Various areas were identified for being cleaned up during the campaign period for optimization of space Management and enhancement of workplace experience in premises of DST and its autonomous organisations. Further, Joint Secretary (Admn.), DST, Smt. A Dhanalakshmi inspected the identified cleanliness sites in the office premises and directed the senior officers to put their best efforts to achieve the target during the campaign period.

    Awareness about the campaign was spread through different social media platforms like X (Formerly known as Twitter), Instagram and Facebook. The campaign was conducted in full swing to achieve the targets set by the Department of Science and Technology for the specified period.

    Autonomous Institutions (AIs) and Subordinate Offices under the Department located various part of the country also actively participated in ‘Swachhata Hi Sewa’ 2024 Campaign and  conducted various activities such as Pledge taking ceremony, Poetry writing competition, quiz competition on cleanliness and hygiene, Awareness Campaign with Villagers (Gram Shabha), Plantation Drive under the initiative ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, Waste management workshop for school children, lectures for spreading awareness on Swachhata, Preventive Health Checkup camp for Safai Mitra etc.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM launches Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan from Hazaribagh, Jharkhand on 2nd October 2024, birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    PM launches Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan from Hazaribagh, Jharkhand on 2nd October 2024, birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi

    Abhiyan aims at saturation of more than 63,000 tribal majority villages in Aspirational Districts with a budget of Rs. 79,156 cr

    Focus on 25 scheme interventions under the Abhiyan in the next 5 years, through coordinated efforts of 17 Ministries

    PM also inaugurates 40 new Eklavya Schools and lays foundation stone of 25 schools, worth Rs. 2834 cr

    PM further inaugurates and lays foundation stone of projects worth Rs. 1365 cr under PM-JANMAN; 1387 km roads, 120 Anganwadis, 250 Multi Purpose Centres and 10 school hostels to be built

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 6:55PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA), on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, from Hazaribagh, Jharkhand today. The scheme has a total outlay of Rs.79,156 crores (Central Share: Rs.56,333 crore and State Share: Rs. 22,823 crore).  Hon’ble Governor, Jharkhand, Shri Santosh Gangwar; Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram; Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt Annpurna Devi; Union MoS for Tribal Affairs, Sh. Durgadas Uikey; Union MoS for Defence, Shri Sanjay Seth; and senior officers from Central and State Government graced the occasion. (Press Release: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2061094)

    The Abhiyan will cover around 63,843 villages benefitting more than 5 crore tribal people in 549 districts and 2,911 blocks spread across all tribal majority villages and aspirational blocks in 30 States/UTs.  Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan envisions saturation of critical gaps in social infrastructure, health, education, livelihood, through 25 interventions implemented by 17-line ministries of Govt of India by convergence and outreach; and ensures holistic and sustainable development of tribal areas and communities. 

    The scheme received Cabinet approval on 18th September 2024. (Press Release: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2055995). It has been planned based on the learning and success of PM-JANMAN, which was launched by the Prime Minister on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on 15th November, 2023. With a budget outlay of Rs. 24,104 crores, the scheme focuses on the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) population. In the last 10 months, remarkable strides have been made in almost all interventions with sanction of projects worth Rs 10,000 crores. Recently, on 17th September, 2024 the Prime Minister handed over keys for Gruha Pravesh of 40,000 completed houses constructed under PM-JANMAN and released 1st instalment to 50,000 beneficiaries during an event in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.  (Press Release on Cabinet Approval of the scheme

    The Prime Minister also inaugurated 40 Eklavya schools and laid the foundation stone of 25 new EMRSs amounting to around Rs 2,834 cr. He also inaugurated and laid foundation stone of projects worth Rs 1,365 cr under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), including 1387 km roads, 120 Anganwadis, 250 Multi Purpose Centres and 10 school hostels, which are being constructed under PM-JANMAN by the concerned Ministries of Rural Development, Women and Child Development, Department of School Education and Literacy, and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

    With the inauguration of 40 new EMRS, a total of 74 new EMRSs have been completed under the new scheme, which was launched under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister in 2018, when the Government of India decided to set up 440 Eklavya Schools. Under the scheme, each block with 50% or more ST population and 20,000 or more tribal persons will have an EMRS, to be at par with Navodaya Vidyalayas.  With 288 schools already sanctioned (before 2018), a total of 728 schools will be set up. The construction cost of EMRS has been enhanced to Rs. 38 cr and Rs. 48 cr in plain and hilly areas respectively.   By March 2026, Govt has set the target of making all 728 schools functional, wherein about 3.5 lakh tribal students will have quality education. An amount of Rs. 28919.72 crores has been allocated under the scheme (for 2021-26).  More than 38,000 teaching and non-teaching staff will be recruited in a phased manner, of which 9000 teaching and non-teaching staff have been recruited already. In the last 10 years, there has been a manifold increase in such schools as can be seen below.

    Scheme/Intervention

    2013-14

    2024-25

    Budget Outlay

    Rs. 278.76 Crore

    (As a component under Article 275 (1) of Constitution

    Rs. 6399.00 crore

    (Separate Central Sector Scheme)

    Sanctioned Schools

    167

    708

    Functional Schools

    123

    474

    Recurring Cost

    Rs. 42,000 per student per annum

    Rs. 1,09,000 per student per annum

    Capital Cost

    Rs. 12.00 crore (Plain)

    Rs. 16 crores (Hilly, NE, LWE)

    Rs. 37.80 crore (plain),

    Rs. 48 crore (Hilly, NE, LWE)

    Enrolments

    34365

    1,23,847 (2023-24)

    In the last 5 years, construction has been completed in 170 schools (2019-20 to September 2024) and construction in over 240 schools is under progress as on date. In 328 schools, smart classes are being set up by the Ministry of Electronics and Information. Technology. EMRS MIS Portal has been created to maintain a database of students, schools, teachers and for reviewing construction and financial progress.

    (Video Link for the Event: https://www.youtube.com/live/ZNl8CdHPthk?feature=shared)

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    VM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 17th India-Germany Military Cooperation Sub Group Meeting held in Berlin

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 7:08PM by PIB Delhi

    The 17th edition of the India-Germany Military Cooperation Sub Group (MCSG) meeting was held from 01-02 Oct 24 at Berlin, Germany. Discussions focused on new initiatives to further enhance the scope of bilateral military cooperation and to strengthen ongoing defence engagements across the spectrum. The meeting was conducted in a friendly, warm, and cordial atmosphere.

    The MCSG is a forum established to boost defence cooperation between both nations through regular talks at the strategic and operational levels between Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff, and the Department of International Cooperation Armed Forces, Germany. The meeting was co-chaired from the Indian side by the Deputy Assistant Chief of Integrated Defence Staff for International Defence Cooperation and the Deputy Director, the Department of International Cooperation, Armed Forces Office from the German side.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Steel Celebrates the Culmination of #SwachhataHiSeva2024 Campaign and Launches Special Campaign 4.0

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Steel Celebrates the Culmination of #SwachhataHiSeva2024 Campaign and Launches Special Campaign 4.0

    Ministry of Steel Felicitates Safai Mitras for Their Exemplary Service

    Ministry of Steel Honors Prithak Foundation for Outstanding Grassroots Efforts

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 7:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Steel today marked the successful culmination of the #SwachhataHiSeva2024 campaign in a ceremony held at the Steel Room, Udyog Bhawan. The event was graced by senior officials, including Joint Secretary Shri Sanjay Roy, Joint Secretary Shri Abhijit Narendra, and Deputy Secretary Shri Subhash Kumar. Several other officers and employees of the Ministry of Steel were also present to commemorate this special occasion.

    The highlight of the ceremony was the felicitation of the Ministry’s Safai Mitras for their invaluable contribution in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene across the office premises. These individuals were honored for their dedicated efforts in creating a healthy and clean work environment.

    In a special segment of the event, the Ministry of Steel also recognized the efforts of Shri Abhay Raj Singh, Chairman of Prithak Foundation, and Ms. Sheetal, Principal of Government Girls Senior Secondary School (GGSSS), for their outstanding work at the grassroots level. Their contributions in fostering cleanliness and sanitation awareness, particularly among underprivileged children, were applauded. The Ministry highlighted the significance of instilling such values in the younger generation, recognizing them as the future of the nation.

    With the culmination of the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 campaign, the Ministry of Steel also announced the commencement of its next cleanliness initiative, *Special Campaign 4.0*. This month-long campaign, running from October 2 to October 31, 2024, will focus on reducing pendency within government operations while further promoting cleanliness across its offices and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). Through this initiative, the Ministry reaffirms its commitment to efficient governance and a cleaner working environment.

    The Ministry of Steel remains committed to its goal of promoting cleanliness and environmental sustainability in all its initiatives. The Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 campaign has not only brought awareness but also inspired action across various levels, ensuring a cleaner and healthier India for future generations.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal offered floral tribute at the Gandhi statue on ‘Gandhi Jayanti

    Source: Government of India (2)

    The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal offered floral tribute at the Gandhi statue on ‘Gandhi Jayanti

    “Vision and ideals of Mahatma Gandhi has always been inspiring people of India”: Shri Sarbananda Sonowal

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 6:30PM by PIB Delhi

    On the occasion of ‘Gandhi Jayanti’ The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal offered floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Namrup in Assam today.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sonowal said, “Mahatma Gandhi’s work and ideals have always inspired us to build a strong and powerful society. Bapu has not only inspired every Indian but humanity at large towards an inclusive and peaceful human society. I offer my deepest Shradhdhanjali to Mahatma Gandhi – the great soul of Bharat.”

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