NewzIntel.com

    • Checkout Page
    • Contact Us
    • Default Redirect Page
    • Frontpage
    • Home-2
    • Home-3
    • Lost Password
    • Member Login
    • Member LogOut
    • Member TOS Page
    • My Account
    • NewzIntel Alert Control-Panel
    • NewzIntel Latest Reports
    • Post Views Counter
    • Privacy Policy
    • Public Individual Page
    • Register
    • Subscription Plan
    • Thank You Page

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by CE at Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation 
    Honourable Minister Wang Yi (Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs), Your Excellencies, ministers and officials from around the world, honourable representatives of international organisations, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good morning. I am delighted to join you on this historic occasion: to celebrate with you the signing of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation.
     
    Gathered here today, in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, are high-level representatives of over 80 countries from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe; and from the United Nations and about 20 international organisations. A very warm welcome to Hong Kong!
     
    It is a privilege for us to host this signing ceremony, and to serve as the IOMed headquarters, once the Convention enters into force.
     
    This singular occasion is made possible by the ongoing and dedicated efforts of China, our country, in working with around 20 states, since late 2022, to establish an intergovernmental organisation devoted to mediation. After five rounds of intensive negotiation since 2023, co-ordinated by the IOMed Preparatory Office, the negotiating states concluded the very Convention signed today.
     
    The IOMed will become the world’s first intergovernmental international legal organisation dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation. It also reflects our shared confidence in mediation as a peaceful means to maintain international peace and security, as stipulated in the Charter of the United Nations.
     
    The IOMed will provide a pathway for countries – regardless of culture, language and legal system – to resolve international disputes based on mutual respect and understanding. This is increasingly important amid mounting geopolitical tensions. When protectionism threatens to derail the international trade order, and when unilateralism looms over global supply chains, it is dialogue – not division – that restores balance.
     
    China has long championed equity and unity. The Chinese virtue of “和而不同”, meaning “harmony in diversity”, is deeply rooted in our community and culture. This value of mutual respect in spite of differences also sits at the heart of mediation, the IOMed, and a world that seeks co-operation over conflict.
     
    Despite geopolitical turbulence, Hong Kong builds bridges, not walls. Under our unique “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong is the only world city that enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage. With the support of the National 14th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong has risen as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre in the Asia-Pacific region.
     
    We are the only common law jurisdiction in China, and the only jurisdiction in the world with a bilingual common law system in both Chinese and English. We have a long tradition of the rule of law, and our courts exercise their judicial power independently. Hong Kong’s Court of Final Appeal, which is vested with the power of final adjudication, has on its bench eminent jurists from both Hong Kong and overseas common law jurisdictions.
     
    Our robust, efficient and well-respected legal system is supported by world-class legal and dispute resolution professionals. Often bilingual or even multilingual, they are well-versed in international rules and practices, and help to position Hong Kong as a preferred venue for dispute resolution.
     
    In this year’s International Arbitration Survey, Hong Kong is the most preferred seat of arbitration in the Asia-Pacific region, and shares second place globally with another jurisdiction. Our economy also came first in “business legislation” and “international trade” in the World Competitiveness Yearbook. In the latest Business Ready Report published by the World Bank Group, Hong Kong ranks eighth in “dispute resolution” among the 50 economies covered.
     
    All this underscores Hong Kong’s effectiveness as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” among many economies. We contribute to cross-border investment and economic activity through our top-notch professional services. Our “one country, two systems” advantages make us well-placed to be the headquarters of the important institution of the IOMed.
     
    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is devoted to supporting the IOMed’s provision of friendly, flexible, economical and efficient mediation services. We actively promote a vibrant culture of mediation. In fact, it is a general policy to incorporate a mediation clause in all government contracts. We are also enhancing the system on local accreditation and disciplinary matters of the mediation profession.
     
    And we go all out to build bridges with the world. Hong Kong will actively promote the IOMed’s valuable work in settling international disputes through mediation, and advocate mediation as a global tool for peace and justice across borders.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, the establishment of the IOMed’s headquarters in Hong Kong is a great honour for our city. The headquarters, as you may know, will be based in the building that once housed the Wan Chai Police Station, just a stone’s throw away from here. Built in 1932, this iconic building has a long association with law and order in Hong Kong. From its prime downtown location, it has also witnessed the transformation of our city that has long treasured unity. In its new role as the IOMed headquarters, the building will play a vital part in the future of Hong Kong as a centre for international legal and dispute resolution services.
     
    We are working to complete the conversion of the building for its new mission. I’m happy to say that it could open its doors as early as the end of this year. We look forward not only to welcoming its new occupants, but also to supporting them in building new bridges for a more connected, peaceful and prosperous future through mediation.
     
    I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Central Government for its staunch support of Hong Kong, allowing Hong Kong the honour of housing the IOMed headquarters here. My sincere gratitude also goes to the international community, for placing your trust and confidence in our city. Let’s renew our commitment to peace, justice and the rule of law. Let’s cultivate a mediation culture together. Let’s build a strong IOMed for a global community of shared future founded on peace and prosperity. Please enjoy the day and enjoy Hong Kong. Thank you.
    Issued at HKT 11:50

    NNNN

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointments to Committee on the Promotion of Racial Harmony

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs has appointed three new members to the Committee on the Promotion of Racial Harmony (CPRH), a Government spokesman announced today (May 30). Three incumbent members have also been reappointed to the Committee in the same appointment exercise. Their term of office will run from June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2027.
     
         The following is a list of the non-official members of the CPRH:
     
    New members:
     
    Ms Zareenah Ho Sau-yin
    Ms Jody Kwok Fu-yung
    Ms Kalsoom Syed
     
    Reappointed incumbent members:
     
    Mr Zaman Minhas Qamar
    Ms Himeshika Samaradivakara
    Mr Deep Singh Vinner
     
    Other incumbent members:
     
    Mr Mohammad Ilyas
    Mr Vishal Melwani
    Mr Syed Mohammed Mohiuddin
    Mrs Marina Rai
    Ms Tika Rana
    Mr Baljinder Singh
    Mr Yeung Tsz-hei
    Mr Eric Yuon Fuk-lung
     
         The CPRH is a non-statutory advisory body set up to advise the Government on matters relating to fostering racial harmony in the community and to enhance mutual understanding among people of different ethnic origins. Chaired by the Deputy Director of Home Affairs, the Committee includes representatives from the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau, the Education Bureau, the Labour Department and the Information Services Department. The Race Relations Unit of the Home Affairs Department provides secretariat support to the Committee.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government to further reduce emission allowances of power plants

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government to further reduce emission allowances of power plants 
         The Tenth TM, which is issued under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance (the Ordinance), reduces the annual emission allowances of sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and respirable suspended particulates (RSPs) from the electricity sector from 2030 onwards at 2 302 tonnes, 8 350 tonnes and 317 tonnes respectively. This represents further tightening by 19 per cent, 25 per cent and 14 per cent respectively when compared with the emission allowances for the electricity sector for 2026 set under the Ninth TM.
     
         A spokesperson for the Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB) said, “In setting the new emission allowances, we have taken into account factors such as local electricity demand, the gas-fired electricity generation of the two power companies (including the progress of constructing new gas-fired units for replacement of coal-fired units), the emission performance of existing generating units, the estimated import of nuclear power and clean energy, and the projected electricity intake from renewable energy sources. The Government has also been requiring the two power companies to adopt the best practicable means in their plants’ design and operational management to minimise emissions of air pollutants.”
    　　  
         The Hongkong Electric Company Limited is building a new gas-fired generating unit for operation in 2029, while an existing coal-fired generating unit will be decommissioned correspondingly by then. As for CLP Power Hong Kong Limited (CLP), driven by major infrastructure developments (such as the Northern Metropolis), the electricity demand in 2030-2031 is forecasted to be about 9 per cent higher than the forecast made in the Ninth TM. CLP plans to increase the output of its existing gas-fired generating units to meet the additional electricity demand, and will import more zero-carbon energy from the Mainland. These measures can further reduce the two power companies’ reliance on coal-fired power generation, thereby reducing pollutant emissions.

    　　The spokesperson added, “Hong Kong’s air quality has been improving continuously in recent years. The ambient concentrations of SO2, nitrogen dioxide and RSPs recorded in 2024 had been reduced by 45 per cent to 88 per cent when compared with that in 2004. The number of hours of reduced visibility observed had also been greatly reduced by 82 per cent from its peak in 2004. The significant improvement is also attributable to the Government’s efforts in implementing measures to reduce air pollutant emissions from power plants. As emissions from the electricity sector accounted for 61 per cent, 27 per cent and 13 per cent of the territory-wide emissions of SO2, NOx and RSPs respectively in 2022, the tightened emission allowances for power plants will help further improve the air quality in Hong Kong and the PRD region.　　 
    　　The Tenth TM will be tabled at the Legislative Council on June 4 for commencement by the end of 2025. In accordance with the Ordinance, the new set of emission allowances will come into effect on January 1, 2030.
    Issued at HKT 11:30

    NNNN

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Japanese medical and life science companies join business mission to understand Hong Kong’s investment environment and explore business opportunities (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Japanese medical and life science companies join business mission to understand Hong Kong’s investment environment and explore business opportunities  
         This is the fourth sector-specific business mission organised by InvestHK and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Tokyo) in recent years, following the last innovation and technology mission in May 2024, and two food and beverage missions, which were held in February 2025 and April 2023 respectively.
     
         Tying in with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s Asia Summit on Global Health and the Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair 2025, on May 26 and 27, the delegation attended a series of visits, themed seminars, networking sessions, as well as business matching meetings with potential investors, investees and business partners.
     
         At the welcome dinner held on May 26, the Director-General of Investment Promotion, Ms Alpha Lau, said, “With the highest life expectancy in the world, Hong Kong has proven itself as a hub of healthcare excellence and technological innovation. Home to two of the world’s top 30 medical schools, a first-class research talent pool, and globally recognised clinical trial data, our city is a powerhouse for biotech advancement.”
     
         On May 27, the delegates visited the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) to attend a briefing session on the business environment and opportunities available in Hong Kong, followed by a tour of the HKSTP’s Japanese tenants’ lab and other facilities. The delegates then attended a networking dinner organised by InvestHK.
    Issued at HKT 14:45

    NNNN

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Framework agreement on co-operation in Mirs Bay pilotage between Hong Kong and Shenzhen renewed

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Framework agreement on co-operation in Mirs Bay pilotage between Hong Kong and Shenzhen renewed 
         The purpose of the framework agreement is to enhance the navigational safety of vessels in the waters of Mirs Bay and to improve the efficiency of vessels calling at the Shenzhen East Port Area. The framework agreement specifies the scope of pilotage services for vessels, pilot deployment, charging arrangements, pilot management and entry/exit arrangements. According to the framework agreement, vessels that are required to be under compulsory pilotage as stipulated in the laws of both Hong Kong and Shenzhen will be piloted by a single Hong Kong or Shenzhen qualified pilot throughout the entire voyage to or from the Shenzhen East Port Area through Mirs Bay, and the service will be charged once. Compared with the previous requirement for vessels to be guided by pilots from Hong Kong and Shenzhen in separate segments, the pilotage co-operation arrangement effectively reduces operating costs of shipping and port entities, and improves the efficiency and safety of pilotage operations.
     
         A spokesperson for the MD said, “Since the initial signing of the framework agreement in 2022, the pilotage co-operation in Mirs Bay between Hong Kong and Shenzhen has been smooth and efficient, and well-received by the trade. Therefore, we welcome the renewal of the framework agreement with Shenzhen in order to continue to provide convenience for the trade in marine transportation, deepen co-operation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen in pilotage services, as well as foster the high-quality development of ports in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.”
    Issued at HKT 14:00

    NNNN

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHP follows up on a pulmonary tuberculosis case involving a secondary school student

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (May 30) following up on a confirmed case of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) involving a secondary school student and reminds members of the public to seek medical advice promptly if they have symptoms, such as persistent cough, blood in sputum, weight loss, fever and night sweating. Those diagnosed with TB should follow their doctor’s instructions and complete the entire course of anti-TB treatment. 

    On May 14, the CHP received a notification from Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) that an 18-year-old male secondary school student with good past health had attended QEH the previous day (May 13) due to shortness of breath, persistent cough, blood in sputum, fever and weight loss. He was admitted to the hospital for treatment on the same day. His sputum specimen tested positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The patient did not receive Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine as recommended by the Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme.

    The patient was discharged against medical advice on May 25. He was referred to the CHP’s Chest Clinic for follow-up as he needed to continue receiving directly observed treatment. He attended the Chest Clinic on May 26 for consultation and received one dose of anti-TB treatment, but did not continue to attend as scheduled. Medical staff of the Chest Clinic repeatedly reminded the patient and his family of the importance of continuing the treatment. Since the patient has only received anti-TB treatment for a short period of time, discontinuing the treatment would worsen the infection, increase the risk of transmission and emergence of drug-resistant TB, posing a public health threat. Given the above, the CHP issued an Isolation Order today and the patient was taken to Princess Margaret Hospital for isolation and treatment.

    The CHP is arranging screening for teachers, staff and students of the same grade as the patient at the school. No other cases of infection have been recorded so far.

    “TB is an airborne disease. When a TB patient coughs or sneezes, small droplets containing the tubercle bacilli are generated and spread in the air. If another person breathes in these small airborne droplets, he or she may be infected with the germ. However, prolonged exposure is usually the prerequisite for the disease to be effectively transmitted. Members of the public should always be vigilant against TB and adopt a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, avoid smoking and alcohol, and have suitable exercise and adequate rest to minimise the chance of contracting the disease. BCG vaccine is effective in preventing serious cases of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (such as TB meningitis). Parents should arrange for their children under 15 who have not received the BCG vaccine to get vaccinated as soon as possible,” the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui, said.

    People with symptoms such as persistent cough, blood in sputum, weight loss, fever and night sweating should seek prompt medical advice. Early identification of TB cases and prompt initiation of anti-TB treatment remain the mainstay of TB control. The Chest Clinics under the CHP provide TB patients with free outpatient consultation and treatment. If TB disease is diagnosed, the patient should strengthen their respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, and receive TB treatment under the doctor’s advice.

    The CHP will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate actions.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: cortAIx SG: Thales Accelerates Trusted AI Innovation in Singapore with Strategic Partnerships

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: cortAIx SG: Thales Accelerates Trusted AI Innovation in Singapore with Strategic Partnerships

    30 May 2025

    Share this article

    • Thales’s global acceleration in trusted AI extends to Asia for the first time with the launch of cortAIx SG. Supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), cortAIx SG aims to drive the ethical and effective adoption of AI in Singapore, in alignment with Singapore’s National AI strategy. The Group’s global expansion of cortAIx to Singapore has the dual purpose of serving the needs of both the civil and defence ecosystems.
    • Thales is strengthening its strategic partnerships in Singapore by launching joint initiatives with CAAS1, DSTA2, and HTX3across Aviation, Defence, and Public Safety and Security. These enhanced collaborations include an expanded innovation partnership with HTX focused on AI, border security, quantum, and cybersecurity technologies, as well as the creation of a joint Avionics Lab with CAAS—supported by Changi Airport Group, ICAI4, SATS, and Singapore Airlines—to drive next-generation avionics solutions.
    • With these partnerships, cortAIx SG will become an integral part of the Group’s global cortAIx network of 800 highly-skilled AI and data experts, supported by local talent with deep expertise in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data science.

    On 30th May, Thales and EDB signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the launch of cortAIx SG to extend the Group’s global AI programme to Asia, and further accelerate on AI research and industrialisation. With more than 100 products integrating AI, Thales already develops and deploys trusted AI-powered systems in the most complex and challenging environments. Building on this strong foundation, cortAIx SG will serve as an important accelerator, identifying critical challenges and developing high-impact AI solutions for Thales’ business units across Singapore and the broader Asia region. The centre will play a key role in driving the development and implementation of trusted AI systems in complex and mission-critical environments, thereby strengthening Thales’ R&D capabilities and long-term innovation footprint in Singapore.

    cortAIx SG positions Thales Singapore as a hub for AI leadership and joint innovation, aligned with the nation’s ambitions under the National AI Strategy. The centre will be driven by several key initiatives: including projects that enhance utilisation of knowledge and sensor suites to aid planning and decision support; increase operational efficiency; and drive human-autonomy teaming. Thales will work with the Singaporean government and ecosystem to grow domain and technology capabilities in Singapore, bringing together cutting-edge technology, talent and research to AI solutions that are ethical, transparent, explainable, and operationally effective.

    The announcement was made on the occasion of French President Mr. Emmanuel Macron’s State Visit to Singapore, with multiple agreements signed on 29th May and during the France–Singapore Frontier Technologies Forum on 30th May.

    1.Expansion of Strategic Partnership with HTX (Home Team Science & Technology Agency)

    Thales and HTX first signed a Master Agreement for Strategic Partnership for Innovation in 2020.  Today, they expanded the scope of this partnership, extending it for another three years to:

    1. Establish a joint-lab focused on AI-enabled technologies, local capability development and the formation of best practices for trustworthy AI within the local context;  
    2. Enable technology insertion through agile collaboration, testing and technology experimentation aligned to HTX’s evolving needs. Thales will support HTX in translating early-stage technical solutions into concrete systems that can be integrated into HTX’s homeland security programmes to drive rapid innovation and early adoption;
    3. Jointly develop a shared Research and Development (R&D) strategy and future technology roadmap relevant to public safety and security, bringing together HTX, Thales, academia and startups, across five critical technology frontiers: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI), Cybersecurity, Quantum Technologies and Space.

    2.Joint Avionics Lab with Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) to innovate avionics-oriented solutions

    CAAS, Changi Airport Group (CAG), the International Centre for Aviation Innovation (ICAI), SATS Ltd. (SATS), Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Thales signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 29th May 2025 to foster greater innovation and collaboration at the aviation ecosystem level.

    Under this MOU, the partners will work together to identify key challenges to solve and undertake joint innovation projects to develop solutions, which could include the following:

    1. Air traffic optimisation, by combining airlines’ flight operations and cockpit data with air traffic management information. AI-enabled algorithms can detect and predict holding patterns within a particular radius around Changi Airport, helping manage congestion and leading to reduced flight delays.
    2. Digitalising and optimising the data shared between airlines, air traffic management and airports. Data from sensors in the aircraft, like cameras or inflight entertainment systems, can provide real-time, automated data to complement current data streams like video content from ground infrastructures. Enhancing these with AI models can help airlines, air traffic managements and airport operators improve collaborative decision making.

    The Avionics Lab in Singapore, the first of its kind for Thales outside France, represents a significant milestone in deepening Thales’ avionics capabilities in Singapore and the region.   The Avionics Lab complements the AIR Lab (jointly set up by CAAS and Thales in 2019 to work on cutting-edge Air Traffic Management solutions) to optimise air transport operations in the region. 

    The Avionics Lab will serve as a vital platform for collaborative innovation, between the world leading aviation eco-system in Singapore and Thales, to co-develop and test cutting edge concepts grounded in real-world operational scenarios, strengthening Singapore’s position as a hub for aviation technologies.

    3.AI in critical systems for Defence through DSTA – Thales co-lab

    Announced in April this year, the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) and Thales have set up a joint lab for AI-enabled technologies, which can augment combat systems currently in use by the Singapore Armed Forces to efficiently handle drone threats. The lab will work on joint projects, the first of which is related to Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) and advanced sensors.

    Thales is also providing a cyber-secured and AI-powered autonomous mine countermeasures system to the Republic of Singapore Navy, in partnership with ST Engineering. The sonars and mission management system are accompanied by data analysis tools reinforced with AI, in order ​ to facilitate target detection and identification that ease the workload of operators.

    These initiatives form the core of Thales’s AI strategy in Singapore and touch on key sectors aligned with the National AI Strategy 2.0. These collective partnerships will see Thales grow its pool of AI experts in Singapore to over several dozen in the next three years, adding to the Group’s global cortAIx network of 800 highly-skilled AI and data specialists.

    “The launch of cortAIx SG by Thales will add new capabilities to Singapore’s growing AI and innovation ecosystems, and builds on Thales’s longstanding presence in Singapore. We look forward to the impactful AI-enabled solutions cortAIx SG will develop in partnership with our ecosystem for Singapore and the region,” said Cindy Koh, Executive Vice President, EDB.

    “Thales is honoured to be working with our strategic partners in Singapore to bring new technologies to the fore, whether in aviation, in public security or to help reinforce national defence and sovereignty. Being able to announce the launch of cortAIx SG this week, in the presence of Ms Clara Chappaz, French Minister Delegate for AI and Digital Affairs and Ms Josephine Teo, Singapore’s Minister for Digital Development and Information and Minister-in-charge of Smart Nation and Cybersecurity, is a true recognition of our role as a technology leader, notably as France and Singapore celebrate 60 years of bilateral cooperation. cortAIx SG will be a valuable asset to help our customers and partners embrace the vast opportunities AI has to offer, deploying it as a force for good, in support of Singapore’s National AI Strategy. We are excited at the prospect of bringing our leading technology, talent and research to deliver AI solutions that are ethical, transparent, explainable and effective.” said Philippe Keryer, Senior Executive Vice President, Strategy, Research and Technology, Thales.

    Thales in Singapore

    Thales has been present in Singapore since 1973, where it has grown from a small avionics presence into a major hub with 2,000 employees across aerospace, defence, cybersecurity, and digital identity (CDI). The country now hosts Thales’s largest CDI manufacturing centre, avionics manufacturing and MRO centre, and cutting-edge R&D labs, including the AIR Lab with CAAS, a joint lab with HTX and the CINTRA research unit with NTU and CNRS. Recent investments include the Thales Singapore Defence Hub, a Co-Lab with DSTA, and Centres of Excellence in Air Traffic Management and Public Security.

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies. Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    1Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore

    2Defence Science and Technology Agency

    3Home Team Science & Technology Agency

    4International Centre for Aviation Innovation

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon dominates Indy 500 Data connectivity

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon dominates Indy 500 Data connectivity

    INDIANAPOLIS, IN – The 2025 Indianapolis 500 race set a new milestone for data usage and connection at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on the Verizon network. In just one day, inside the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a total of 172 terabytes (TB) of data was used on the Verizon network, more than we’ve ever seen on the network at this race and one of the highest data usage events Verizon has ever recorded.

    “Connecting a city’s worth of fans at the Indy 500, with more unique users than the Super Bowl had attendees, is a massive undertaking, putting unprecedented demand on wireless networks. We had more data running on our network than any previous NFL draft, and nearly twice the data of any Super Bowl in recorded history. The work and skill that goes into setting up a network to keep hundreds of thousands of people connected in one place is an incredible achievement. It’s the dedication from our teams that ensures our customers don’t have to worry about their phones during this event, no matter the scope,” said Andy Brady, President of Verizon Great Lakes.

    “The unprecedented data usage we witnessed during the 2025 Indy 500 highlights the incredible passion and engagement of our fans,” said Doug Boles, President of Indianapolis Motor Speedway. “The ability for fans to share their experiences in real-time through Verizon’s robust network significantly enhances the event’s atmosphere and global reach. This level of connectivity is crucial for modern sports experiences, and we’re thrilled to partner with Verizon to deliver it.”

    The data doesn’t just speak for itself; it shouts. Verizon’s network experienced an extraordinary surge at the 2025 Indy 500, with 5G Ultrawideband (UW) playing a dominant role. To put 172 TB into context, that’s equivalent to more than 57 million digital photos (3 MB average). Here are the amazing results:

    • Explosive 5G Growth: A staggering 74.6% leap in 5G UW volume of 61 TB inside the track over last year’s race (43 TB), revealing how fans are embracing the speed and capacity of 5G.
    • Surging Overall Traffic: A massive 48.5% increase in total combined 4G and 5G UW data volume inside IMS, proving the network’s capability to handle the intense demand.
    • High fan engagement: 15 TB of the 61 TB used inside the track was uploaded data, highlighting the high levels of fans sharing in real time.
    • Surrounding Network Impact: Outside the track, more than 111 TB of data volume was used on the network, showing the event’s broader impact.
    • Combined Volume Growth: The combined data volume inside and outside the venue was nearly 172 TB – a 35% increase from last year’s race day, demonstrating substantial year-over-year growth.

    The key driver behind this data explosion was this year’s commercial activation of 5G Standalone at the IMS, allowing fans to easily upload videos and share their experiences in real time, further enhancing the fan experience. “This record breaking amount of traffic really highlights the rapid growth of 5G and how it’s truly built to handle massive events like the Indy 500. The data capacity of the Verizon network is unmatched,” said Brady.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: US foreign aid cuts creating ‘a life threatening vacuum’ for millions of people – new briefing

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The US government has been a major global health funder, supporting HIV prevention, vaccines, maternal care, and humanitarian aid

    Amnesty highlights how the cuts have stopped vital programmes delivering health care, food, shelter, and aid to vulnerable groups, including women, survivors of sexual violence, and refugees

    ‘This abrupt decision and chaotic implementation by the Trump administration is reckless and profoundly damaging’ – Amanda Klasing

    The Trump administration’s abrupt, chaotic and sweeping suspension of US foreign aid is placing millions of lives and human rights at risk across the globe, said Amnesty International.

    In its 34-page briefing, Lives at Risk, Amnesty examines how the cuts have halted critical programmes across the globe, many of which provided essential health care, food security, shelter, medical services, and humanitarian support for people in extremely vulnerable situations, including women, girls, survivors of sexual violence, and other marginalised groups, as well as refugees and those seeking safety.

    The cuts follow President Trump’s executive order, ‘Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid,’ and other orders targeting specific groups and programmes. In his congressional testimony, Secretary of State Marco Rubio gave weak or misleading responses about the cuts human rights impact, even falsely claiming no deaths have resulted. This contradicts evidence from Amnesty and others, including documented deaths and strong projections of increased mortality due to the cuts.

    Amanda Klasing, Amnesty International USA’s Director of Government Relations, said:

    “This abrupt decision and chaotic implementation by the Trump administration is reckless and profoundly damaging.

    “The decision to cut these programmes so abruptly and in this untransparent manner violates international human rights law, which the US is bound by and undermines decades of US leadership in global humanitarian and development efforts.

    “While US funding over the decades has had a complex relationship with human rights, the scale and suddenness of these current cuts have created a life-threatening vacuum that other governments and aid organisations are not realistically able to fill in the immediate term, violating the rights to life and health, and dignity for millions.”

    Two areas in which the cuts have caused significant harm globally are the forced cutbacks to – or complete closing of – programmes that ensured health care and treatment to marginalised people and those supporting migrants and people seeking safety in countries around the world.

    The rights to life and to health under grave threat

    The US government has long been a key funder of global health, investing in HIV prevention, vaccine programmes, maternal health, humanitarian relief and more. Since President Trump’s abrupt suspension of aid across multiple countries, many vital health services have been suspended or shut down. For example:

    • In Guatemala, funding cuts disrupted programmes supporting survivors of sexual violence, including nutritional support for pregnant girls who had been raped and medical, psychological, and legal support to help survivors of violence rebuild their lives after abuse. Other cuts were to key HIV services, including prevention and treatment.
    • In Haiti, health and post-rape services have lost funding including for child survivors of sexual violence. Cuts to HIV funding has left women and girls, and LGBTI people, with reduced access to prevention and treatment.
    • In South Africa, home to the world’s largest HIV epidemic, funding for HIV prevention and community outreach for orphans and vulnerable children, including for young survivors of rape, was terminated, leaving people without care.
    • In Syria, some essential services in Al-Hol – a detention camp where 36,000 people, mostly children, are indefinitely and arbitrarily detained for their perceived affiliation with the Islamic State armed group – were suspended. Some ambulance services and health clinics were among the first services cut.
    • In Yemen, some lifesaving assistance and protection services, including malnutrition treatment to children, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, safe shelters to survivors of gender-based violence, and healthcare to children suffering from cholera and other illnesses have been shut down.
    • In South Sudan, projects providing a range of health services including rehabilitation services for victims of armed conflict, clinical services for victims of gender-based violence, psychological support for rape survivors, and emergency nutritional support for children, have been stopped.

    People seeking safety left without support around the world

    Funding cuts to shelters and groups that provide essential services for migrants, particularly those in dangerous or difficult situations, including refugees, people seeking asylum and internally displaced people, have been widespread and devastating.

    • In Afghanistan, 12 out of 23 community resources centres, which provided approximately 120,000 returning and internally displaced Afghans with housing, food assistance, legal assistance and referrals to healthcare providers, have been shut down. Key aid organisations have suspended health and water programmes, with disproportionate impacts on women and girls.
    • In Costa Rica, local organisations helping asylum seekers and migrants, many from neighbouring Nicaragua, are forced to scale back or close food, shelter, and psychosocial programmes. The funding cuts come as Costa Rica is receiving increased numbers of people seeking safety after being pushed back from the US-Mexico border.
    • Along the Haiti-Dominican Republic border, service providers assisting deported individuals have been forced to cut back on aid including food, shelter, and transportation. With Temporary Protected Status for Haitians in the US set to expire, a likely spike in deportations will overwhelm an already diminished support infrastructure.
    • In Mexico, funding cuts have led to the suspension of food programmes, shelter, and legal support for people seeking safety who are now stranded following the end of asylum at the US-Mexico border. Some shelters and organisations fear they will be shut down completely.
    • In Myanmar and Thailand, US-funded health and humanitarian programmes supporting displaced people and refugees have been suspended or drastically reduced. Clinics in Thai border camps closed abruptly after the stop-work orders, reportedly resulting in preventable deaths.

    Amanda Klasing added:

    “The right to seek safety is protected under international law which the United States is bound by.

    “These abrupt cuts in funding put that right at risk by undermining the humanitarian support and infrastructure that enable people around the world who have been forcibly displaced to access protection, placing already marginalised people in acute danger. We call on the US government to restore funding immediately.”

    The unilateral action to stop funding existing programmes and refrain from spending appropriated funds made by the Trump administration bypassed congressional oversight contrary to US law, and came alongside a broader rollback of US participation in multilateral institutions, including announcements to defund or withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, the World Health Organization, and the UN Human Rights Council, and reassess membership in UNESCO, and UNRWA.

    Recommendations

    Amnesty urges the Trump administration to restore foreign assistance, through the waiver process or otherwise, to programmes where the chaotic and abrupt cut in funding has harmed human rights and ensure that future aid is administered consistent with human rights law and standards.

    Amnesty calls on Congress to continue robust funding of foreign assistance and reject any requests by the administration to codify foreign assistance cuts through rescission by repealing these measures and ensure that all US foreign assistance remains consistent with human rights and humanitarian principles and is allocated according to need.

    Further, the Trump administration and Congress should work together to ensure that any changes to foreign assistance must be carried out transparently, in consultation with affected communities, civil society, and international partners, and must comply with international human rights law and standards, including the principles of legality, necessity, and non-discrimination.

    All states in a position to do so should fulfil their obligations under UN General Assembly Resolution 2626 and subsequent high-level fora by committing at least 0.7% of gross national income to overseas aid without discrimination. As part of aiming to meet this target, donor states should increase support where possible to help fill critical funding gaps left by the abrupt US aid suspensions and ensure continued progress in realising economic, social, and cultural rights and effective humanitarian response around the world.

    MIL OSI NGO –

    May 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China-Cambodia “Golden Dragon 2025” joint exercise wraps up 2025-05-30 19:20:49 On May 28, local time, the conclusion ceremony of the aerial and land live-fire drill of China-Cambodia “Golden Dragon 2025” joint exercise was held in Cambodia.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      The conclusion ceremony of the China-Cambodia “Golden Dragon 2025” joint exercise is held at the Military Police Training Center of the RCAF in Kampong Chhnang Province in Cambodia on May 28, 2025. (Photo by Duan Jiangshan)

      KAMPONG CHHNANG, Cambodia, May 30 — On May 28, local time, the conclusion ceremony of the aerial and land live-fire drill of China-Cambodia “Golden Dragon 2025” joint exercise was held at the Military Police Training Center of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) in Kampong Chhnang Province in Cambodia.

      The aerial and land live-fire drill was set against the backdrop of “terrorists” attacking a China-Cambodia joint venture, taking several “hostages” to a neighborhood hotel and resisting by relying on the surrounding buildings. The drill highlighted urban counter-terrorism operations, and focused on hostage rescue and encirclement and suppression. The drill covered 24 tactical operations including multi-dimensional reconnaissance, airborne control and defense, three-dimensional assault, hostage rescue, emergency aid and treatment, and elimination of remaining enemy forces. The participating troops of the two sides were uniformly grouped into a joint taskforce. 

      After the drill, the chief directors of both sides reported on the overall situation of the exercise, and the leaders of both sides presented awards to the representatives of the participating troops with excellent performance. 

      The China-Cambodia “Golden Dragon 2025” joint exercise further deepened pragmatic cooperation, exchange, and mutual trust between the two sides, and enhanced the joint commanding and operational capabilities of the two militaries, marking a new starting point in the cooperation between the two militaries and their actual combat capabilities.

      At the site of the aerial and land live-fire drill of the China-Cambodia “Golden Dragon 2025” joint exercise at the Military Police Training Center of the RCAF in Kampong Chhnang Province in Cambodia on May 28, the troops of China-Cambodia joint taskforce take turns providing cover and advanced towards the “terrorist” stronghold. (Photo by Duan Jiangshan)

    loading…

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Teaches Fukushima Students Environmental Remediation

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The lectures, based on the IAEA Safety Standards, covered the basics of radiation and radiation monitoring, environmental remediation and decontamination and radioactive waste management. Students also attended a workshop in which they used different devices to detect and measure radiation in various environmental samples such as soil and minerals.

    “I would expect that the IAEA lectures will motivate Fukushima Prefecture university students to learn more about environmental radiation as a subject and the current state of environmental remediation in the prefecture,” said Hiroshi Aoki, then Director General of the Fukushima Prefectural Centre for Environmental Creation.

    “We hope the younger generation will learn from the collective knowledge and experience of the IAEA and apply this to the next steps for reconstruction and revitalization in Fukushima Prefecture, which would also contribute to international nuclear safety,” added Kenichiro Tanaka, Director of the International Nuclear Cooperation Division at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    The programme, a pilot exercise that took place at the end of 2024, was requested by the Government of Japan under a cooperation agreement with the IAEA that started in 2012 and will run until 2027. Under the agreement, the IAEA has been assisting Fukushima Prefecture in activities related to radiation monitoring, environmental remediation, decontamination and waste management, in line with IAEA safety standards.

    “After the lectures I hope to be able to share accurate information about radiation with those around me, when the topic comes up on television or other media,” said Hiroki Furuchi, a student at Higashi Nippon International University.

    The feedback from this first course will be collected and used by the IAEA to further adapt the content to the prefecture’s needs in line with IAEA Safety Standards, before returning to Fukushima to continue the programme at more universities in 2025.

    Read more about the cooperation between Fukushima Prefecture and the IAEA on radiation safety since the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident here.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025

  • Serbia says it will investigate Russian accusations that it ships arms to Ukraine

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Serbia and Russia will jointly investigate how Serbia-made ammunition reached Ukraine, President Aleksandar Vucic said, after Moscow accused Belgrade of exporting arms to the government in Kyiv.

    The SVR, the Russian foreign intelligence service, accused Belgrade of “a stab in the back”, alleging Serbia’s defence manufacturers were selling ammunition and weapons to Ukraine.

    “They (arms sales) have one clear purpose – to kill and maim Russian military personnel and the civilian population,” the SVR said in a statement posted on its website on Thursday.

    The SVR said Serbia sends arms shipments to Ukraine through NATO intermediaries, including the Czech Republic, Poland and Bulgaria, as well as some African countries.

    Serbia maintains a balancing act between its historical ties with Russia and the European Union. Belgrade has condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but has so far refused to join Western sanctions against Moscow.

    Vucic told state RTS TV he discussed Serbian arms exports to Ukraine with Russia’s leader Vladimir Putin when he visited Moscow on May 9, and denied some of the SVR’s allegations.

    “We have formed a working group, together with Russian partners, to establish the facts. Some of the things that have been said are not true,” he told RTS TV late on Thursday.

    According to a classified Pentagon document, Serbia in 2023 agreed to supply arms to Kyiv, despite the country’s professed military neutrality. Moscow has criticised Belgrade several times over the issue.

    The Serbian defence industry produces weapons and ammunition with designs largely stemming from the ex-Soviet military technology of the 1980s, similar to those used both in Ukraine and Russia.

    “Our factories must live and work. About 24,000 people work directly in the defense industry,” Vucic said.

    Serbia wants to join the European Union, but Russia, a Slavic and Orthodox Christian ally, remains its biggest gas supplier, and the country’s sole oil refinery is majority-owned by Gazprom and Gazprom Neft.

    Although Belgrade has refused to join Western sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, it has condemned Moscow’s policies in the United Nations and expressed support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity, including territories held by Russia. Vucic has also met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at least three times.

    (Reuters)

    May 30, 2025

  • Centre issues norms to curb illegal sale of radio equipment on e-com sites

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, on Friday issued norms to curb the illegal sale of radio equipment on e-commerce sites.

    The Guidelines for the Prevention and Regulation of Illegal Listing and Sale of Radio Equipment including Walkie Talkies on E-Commerce Platforms, 2025, aims to curb the unauthorised sale of wireless devices that may pose risks to consumer safety.

    The devices can mislead consumers regarding their legal position and interfere with critical communication networks, including those used by law enforcement and emergency services, said the Ministry.

    The guidelines were finalised following extensive inter-ministerial consultations with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), where it was observed that walkie-talkies are being sold on e-commerce platforms without mandatory and clear disclosures regarding the requirement of wireless operating license or compliance with applicable laws.

    The product listings for walkie-talkies do not specify whether the device requires a license from the concerned authority for use.

    “The omission of details such as frequency range, licensing obligations under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, or the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, and the Use of Low Power, Very Low Power Short Range Radio Frequency Devices (Exemption from Licensing Requirement) Rules, 2018 and the potential legal consequences of unauthorised use, misleads consumers into believing that the devices are freely operable by the general public,” the Ministry said.

    Further, the guidelines mandate that only authorised and compliant walkie-talkie devices operating on permitted frequencies are listed for sale on online platforms.

    It stated that product listings must specify frequency ranges and other technical parameters and include proof of regulatory approval (equipment type approval). It also requires e-commerce entities to undertake due diligence and verify regulatory compliance, including licensing where applicable, and listings lacking frequency information or necessary certification should be taken down.

    The new norms also prohibit misleading advertisements or product descriptions that may misinform consumers about the legal usage of such devices.

    Sellers should ensure that equipment listed for sale does not operate on frequencies that are not exempted from the requirement of frequency assignment and authorisation by the DOT and ensure that the frequency bands on the product description are clearly labelled.

    The guidelines also outline penalties and enforcement mechanisms for violations by the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

    Previously, the CCPA issued 13 notices against 16, 970 product listings to leading digital marketplaces against the listing and sale of walkie-talkies on e-commerce platforms. These were found without proper frequency disclosure, licensing information, or Equipment Type Approval (ETA), thereby, violating the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

    “These platforms are under constant monitoring and examination, in addition to notification of the guidelines,” the Ministry said.

    (IANS)

    May 30, 2025

  • Heavy rains batter Kerala and coastal Karnataka: red alerts issued

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Torrential monsoon rains wreaked havoc across Kerala and coastal Karnataka on Friday, triggering landslides, flooding, widespread power outages, and disrupting daily life in both states.

    Authorities have issued red alerts in several districts as the situation continues to worsen.

    In Kerala, heavy downpours led to extensive damage and waterlogging across multiple districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued red alerts for Idukki, Kannur, and Kasargod, and orange alerts for 11 other districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, and Kottayam.

    Flooding in low-lying areas of Kottayam, Alappuzha, and Pathanamthitta forced hundreds of residents to seek refuge in relief camps.

    State Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian, expressing concern about the worsening situation in his hometown Chengannur, said: “Am told by people in the know of things that if the rain waters do not come down, what was witnessed in 2018 might happen.”

    “All district and revenue officials are on high alert and have been instructed to act swiftly if conditions deteriorate further,” Cherian told IANS.

    Public life has been significantly disrupted – educational institutions were closed in 11 out of 14 districts, train services were cancelled or delayed, and road transport suffered due to landslides and uprooted trees.

    Over five million homes experienced power outages, with the Kerala State Electricity Board estimating damages worth Rs 120 crore. In a tragic incident, an 85-year-old woman died in Ernakulam district after a tree fell on her during the storm.

    In coastal Karnataka, a six-year-old girl identified as Fathima Nayeema lost her life in a landslide in Montepadavu, Ullal taluk, near Mangaluru. The landslide buried two houses, prompting emergency rescue operations. While two people were pulled out safely, rescue efforts for three others trapped under debris are ongoing.

    In Mangaluru, relentless rain flooded several areas, with around 50 houses inundated in Kallapu, leading to emergency evacuations. The district administration declared a holiday for all schools, Anganwadi centres, and colleges, and issued strict advisories against venturing near the sea. Similar precautions were taken in Udupi, where educational institutions were also shut.

    The IMD has issued a red alert in Karnataka for Mangaluru, Udupi, Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, and Hassan until June 2, while orange alerts are in place for Karwar, Shivamogga, Mysuru, Kalaburagi, and Bidar.

    Emergency helpline numbers have been issued, and a ban has been imposed on visiting beaches, rivers, and waterfalls in the affected coastal regions.

    Meanwhile, Bengaluru remained under a cloudy sky, with weather authorities predicting more rainfall in the coming days.

    (With inputs from IANS)

    May 30, 2025

  • PM Modi inaugurates projects worth ₹47,600 crore in Kanpur, highlights India’s self-reliance in defence sector

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday laid the foundation stone for development and defence-related projects worth approximately ₹47,600 crore during his visit to Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Addressing a large public gathering, the Prime Minister said that the visit, initially scheduled for April 24, was postponed following the terrorist attacks in Pahalgam.

    Paying tribute to Shubham Dwivedi, a resident of Kanpur who lost his life in the attack, the Prime Minister said the entire nation shares the sorrow and anguish of the victims. He also highlighted the success of Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the attacks, noting that the Indian armed forces destroyed terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and forced the adversary to plead for de-escalation.

    Reaffirming India’s stance against terrorism, the Prime Minister said, “Our response will be decisive. The timing and nature of our actions will be determined solely by our forces. India will no longer tolerate nuclear blackmail or make distinctions between state and non-state actors in Pakistan.” He added that Operation Sindoor is not yet over, and India will eliminate threats wherever they exist.

    Highlighting the strength of indigenous defence capabilities, PM Modi said Operation Sindoor showcased the impact of ‘Make in India’, with domestically produced weapons like the BrahMos missile hitting targets with precision. He reiterated the government’s commitment to making India self-reliant in defence, stating that the era of dependence on foreign countries for military needs is ending.

    He also pointed to the major role Uttar Pradesh is playing in this transformation, noting that seven historic ordnance factories, including the one in Kanpur, have now been converted into advanced defence production units. He underlined that the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor, especially the Kanpur node, is emerging as a key centre for the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector.

    The Prime Minister informed the gathering that AK-203 rifle production has already commenced in Amethi, and the BrahMos missile system now has a new base in Uttar Pradesh, signalling the state’s growing stature in defence manufacturing. He added that with these developments, Uttar Pradesh is poised to lead India’s journey towards becoming a major defence exporter.

    The Prime Minister said that these investments will not only strengthen India’s defence sector but also create new employment opportunities for thousands of youth in the region. He expressed confidence that the upcoming defence-related projects will boost the state’s economy and industrial capabilities.

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd. to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd. (TSX: BDGI; OTCQX: BDGIF), North America’s largest provider of non-destructive excavating and related services, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd. upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

    Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd. begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “BDGIF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    “We are excited to be added to the OTCQX® Best Market, which provides the opportunity to broaden our market access, enhance liquidity, and strengthen our U.S. investor presence. This move enhances our visibility within the U.S. investment community and provides a convenient way for investors to trade our shares in their own currency and local market. It positions us to expand our investor base as we continue to build sustainable, scalable growth while delivering exceptional service and value to our customers and stakeholders,” said Rob Blackadar, Badger Infrastructure’s President & CEO.

    About Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd.
    Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd. is North America’s largest provider of non-destructive excavating and related services. Badger works for contractors and facility owners in a broad range of infrastructure industries and in general commercial construction. Badger’s customers typically operate near high concentrations of underground power, communication, water, gas and sewer lines, where safety and economic risks are high and where non-destructive excavation provides a safe alternative for certain customer excavation requirements. The Company’s key technology is the Badger HydrovacTM, which uses a pressurized water stream to liquify the soil cover, which is then removed with a powerful vacuum system and deposited into a storage tank. Badger is unique in the non-destructive excavation industry because it designs and manufactures all of its hydrovac units at its plant in Red Deer, AB, which has an annual production capacity of more than 350 hydrovac units. To complement the Badger Hydrovac, the Company has a select number of specialty units, including combo trucks, sewer and flusher units, and Air Vacs. The Company is headquartered in Calgary, AB, has a U.S. administrative office and training centre in Brownsburg, IN, a suburb of Indianapolis, IN, and services customers from approximately 140 field locations across both Canada and the United Sates.

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.
    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market and Pink® Open Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN, OTC Link NQB, and MOON ATS™ are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

    To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 30, 2025

  • Operation Sindoor is India’s frontal assault on terrorism, says Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh termed Operation Sindoor as India’s bold and decisive response to terrorism, emphasizing that the mission is “not over, but just a pause.” Addressing officers and sailors aboard India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, off the Goa coast on Friday, Singh delivered a powerful message to Pakistan: any future misadventure will be met with the full force of the Indian Navy.

    “Operation Sindoor is not just a military action, it is India’s frontal assault on terrorism,” said Singh. “If Pakistan indulges in any unethical or hostile acts, it will face the firepower and resolve of our Navy.”

    The Defence Minister praised the Indian Navy’s silent yet impactful role during the operation. He said the powerful Carrier Battle Group played a crucial role in keeping the Pakistani Navy confined to its ports, ensuring it did not intervene during the coordinated Indian military response.

    Sending a strong message to Islamabad, Singh stated, “The time is up for the dangerous game of terrorism that Pakistan has played since Independence. India will not hesitate to take every necessary step to eliminate terrorism.” He reiterated that India retains the right to act against terrorist threats both across the border and in the seas, and called for Pakistan to hand over terrorists Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar—both UN-designated and accused in the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

    On the subject of talks with Pakistan, Singh was clear: “Dialogue will only happen on terrorism and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). If Pakistan is serious about talks, it should first hand over the terrorists to India so that justice can be delivered.”

    Commending the Navy’s role in Operation Sindoor, Singh detailed the precision and readiness of India’s maritime forces. Within 96 hours of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Indian naval units conducted successful missile and torpedo firings along both the western and eastern seaboards. The Navy’s aggressive deployment and coordination with the Air Force during airstrikes on terror bases underscored the seamless integration among India’s armed forces.

    He emphasized the power projection of the Carrier Battle Group as a symbol of India’s intent and capability. “The Indian Navy’s combat acumen and strategic might have broken the morale of the enemy,” he said, urging continued operational preparedness.

    Rajnath Singh highlighted the transformation of the Indian Navy into a strategic force that extends beyond regional responsibilities. “Today, the Navy is not just the guardian of the Indian Ocean but a force that projects India’s growing global influence,” he said, noting the Navy’s growing focus on cyber, data dominance, and strategic deterrence.

    Drawing a historical parallel, Singh recalled the pivotal role played by the original INS Vikrant during the 1961 Liberation of Goa. Now in its modern incarnation, the carrier once again leads India’s maritime resolve against terrorism.

    Singh was accompanied by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, and other senior officials. He also reviewed frontline warships that were part of the Carrier Battle Group during the operation.

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TRA proposes countervailing measure on PET from India be kept

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    TRA proposes countervailing measure on PET from India be kept

    The TRA has set out its intended recommendation in a Statement of Essential Facts for its review of countervailing measures on PET from India.

    Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

    The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has published its initial findings that a countervailing measure on imports of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) from India be maintained for a further five years. 

    The proposal, published in a Statement of Essential Facts follows an assessment that subsidised imports are likely to recur if the measure was no longer applied and that injury to UK industry would also be likely to recur. The TRA also found that maintaining the measure is in the economic interest of the UK. 

    The TRA found that while Indian imports of PET during the investigation period were low (just 24 tonnes in 2023), the subsidy programmes identified in the original EU measure still exist and are likely to continue. The investigation also concluded that UK industry remains vulnerable to injury, with falling sales, reduced production capacity, and evidence of underutilisation among domestic producers. 

    The intended recommendation is to maintain existing countervailing duty rates, ranging from 0% to 13.8%, until August 2029. 

    Interested parties now have until 13 June 2025 to comment on the SEF. Responses will be considered before the TRA makes its final recommendation to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade. 

    The SEF and public file for this case can be accessed here

    Notes to editors:

    • The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) is the UK body that investigates whether trade remedy measures are needed to counter unfair trading practices and unforeseen surges in imports. 

    • The TRA is an arm’s length body of the Department for Business and Trade. 

    • The period of investigation for this transition review was 1 January 2023 – 31 December 2023. The injury period was 1 January 2020 – 31 December 2023. 

    • This review forms part of the UK’s ongoing assessment of trade remedy measures transitioned from the European Union. 

    • Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a type of plastic commonly used in food and beverage packaging, including bottles and containers. 

    • Countervailing (anti-subsidy) duties are one of three trade remedy tools used to address goods that are being unfairly subsidised by overseas governments and causing injury to UK industry.

    Share this page

    The following links open in a new tab

    • Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
    • Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Gansu Province Receives First Railway Equipment Maintenance Order from Kazakhstan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    LANZHOU, May 30 (Xinhua) — Northwest China’s Gansu Province has received its first order for railway equipment maintenance from Kazakhstan.

    On Thursday, two locomotives from Kazakhstan successfully arrived at the Alashankou checkpoint on the China-Kazakhstan border. After customs clearance, customs declaration and other procedures, they will be repaired in Lanzhou City in the province.

    According to an employee of the local logistics company that is carrying out the order, this order has successfully integrated such technology services into the service trade system. The order has not only helped open up new opportunities for Gansu Province in the field of technical maintenance of high-tech equipment brought from abroad, but also expanded the potential for industrial cooperation with Central Asian countries in the field of infrastructure.

    According to the information available, the company will assign the railway equipment maintenance team to carry out the repair work. The team will inspect and repair key components of the locomotives, such as the traction power system, braking system and electrical equipment.

    The entire maintenance process will strictly comply with international standards and industry regulations to ensure that locomotives are put into service in Kazakhstan in the best working condition after repair. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Thailand aims to become regional hub for AI, digital innovation: deputy PM

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BANGKOK, May 30 (Xinhua) — Thailand is advancing a national transformation strategy and aiming to become a regional hub for artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society Prasert Chantharawongthong said in a video message Thursday at the Huawei Thailand Digital and AI Summit 2025.

    He pointed to the important role of AI and digital innovation in Thailand’s long-term development strategy, noting that the country’s digital economy is growing rapidly and will expand by 7.3 percent in 2025.

    “Under the ‘Economic Growth Engine of Thailand’ program, we aim to enhance national competitiveness, create a safe digital environment, and nurture a new generation of digital talent,” said P. Chantharawongthong. Thailand aims to strengthen its digital infrastructure, create a safe digital environment that protects users’ rights and enjoys public trust, and develop human capital by training talent and developing AI developers over the next two years, he added.

    In support of the country’s talent development policy, Chinese tech giant Huawei and Thailand’s Chulalongkorn University are collaborating to develop AI-focused curricula, develop ICT infrastructure, and transform the university into a fully integrated smart campus.

    “This collaboration with Huawei reflects our strong commitment to digital transformation in education and preparing our students and staff for the future digital economy,” said Parichat Sthapitanonda, vice president of the university.

    Huawei Technologies Thailand CEO Li Xiongwei pointed to the transformative power of AI for society. “By collaborating with government, industry, and academia, Huawei aims to advance all sectors, from agriculture to healthcare to finance,” he said.

    The summit brought together more than 2,000 participants, including government leaders, global tech leaders and academics, to explore the next phase of Thailand’s digital economy, powered by AI, cloud innovation and cross-sector collaboration. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Wang Yi: International Mediation Organization Serves as Important Legal Public Product for Improving Global Governance

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    HONG KONG, May 30 (Xinhua) — The International Mediation Organization (IOM) serves as an important legal public service for improving global governance, said Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Foreign Minister on Friday in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR).

    Speaking at the signing ceremony of the Convention Establishing IOM, Wang Yi said that IOM, as an innovative initiative in the international legal field, has an important significance in the history of international relations.

    According to him, the creation of this organization is the embodiment of the goals and principles of the Charter of the United Nations /UN/ and is aimed at filling the gaps in the mechanisms of international mediation.

    The Chinese side hopes that all signatory countries will ratify the convention as soon as possible and welcomes more countries to actively join it, he said. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 30, 2025

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

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

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

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

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

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

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

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

    May 30, 2025

  • Astronomers scrutinize a star behaving unlike any other

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    (Reuters)

    May 30, 2025

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

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    May 30, 2025

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

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

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

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

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

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/440

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    May 30, 2025

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

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Becoming big business

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Outside the UK, darts viewership also continues to grow.

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

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

    Surging audiences are translating into significantly larger broadcast deals.

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

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

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

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

    Prize money in darts has also exploded.

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

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

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

    The recipe for success

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

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

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

    The sport has been expertly tailored to modern audiences.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    A prodigy emerges

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

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

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

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

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

    Where to from here?

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

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

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

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

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

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

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 30, 2025

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

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

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

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    Post navigation

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

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

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

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

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

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

     

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

     

    Loans for refinancing decreased 23.5% to $2.3 billion.

     

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

     

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

     

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

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 30, 2025

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

    Source: Asia Development Bank

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Over the next 5 years, the project is expected to

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

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

    NephroPlus Dialysis Project in Uzbekistan

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

    From 2021 to 2025, the project achieved the following:

    • provided over 300,000 treatments across three regions;

    • reduced patient mortality by 40% since May 2021;

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

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

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

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 30, 2025
←Previous Page
1 … 377 378 379 380 381 … 1,154
Next Page→
NewzIntel.com

NewzIntel.com

MIL Open Source Intelligence

  • Blog
  • About
  • FAQs
  • Authors
  • Events
  • Shop
  • Patterns
  • Themes

Twenty Twenty-Five

Designed with WordPress