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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: PM’s Science Council to set direction for science

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has today announced the new Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor, and the members of the Prime Minister’s Science and Technology Advisory Council.

    “We have world-class scientists in our universities and research institutes, but they’re working in a system held back by outdated settings. To unlock the full potential of science and technology, we need a sharper focus on commercialisation, better access to global investment, and clearer priorities at home,” Mr Luxon says. 

    “This Council is a new initiative to get clear, independent advice to ensure our investments in science and technology are delivering real outcomes for New Zealanders.

    “The Council will provide advice on long-term priorities for government-funded science and innovation. They will help identify areas of focus that will have the greatest benefit for Kiwis and our economy. 

    “I also expect them to provide bold and courageous advice about those areas that aren’t delivering value for New Zealanders and may need to be deprioritised. It’s about making sure we are investing in what will have the greatest impact for New Zealanders.”

    Members of the Council bring a strong mix of scientific, commercial and strategic expertise. They include:

    Sir Peter Gluckman
    Craig Piggott
    Professor Merryn Tawhai
    Komal Mistry-Mehta
    Malcolm Johns
    Dr John Roche

    “I am also pleased to announce that Dr John Roche has been appointed as the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor. In this role, John will support robust decision making by providing high quality, independent scientific advice. John, in his capacity as my science advisor, will also be a member of the council.”

    Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, Hon Dr Shane Reti, will chair the Council, with Dr John Roche as deputy chair.

    “These are highly capable individuals who understand both the science and the economic imperatives. They are prepared to make the bold calls needed to ensure the system is future-focused, outcome-driven and aligned with our economic goals,” Mr Luxon says.

    “A strong, well-directed science and innovation sector is critical to lifting productivity, creating high-value jobs and supporting a more resilient and competitive economy.”

    The Council will provide its first formal advice to the Prime Minister and Minister Reti later this year.

    Biographies of Council members:

    Sir Peter Gluckman 
    Professor Sir Peter Gluckman ONZ KNZM FRSNZ FMedSci FRS trained as a paediatrician and biomedical scientist. He is Director of Koi Tu- Centre for Informed Futures and holds a Distinguished University Professorship at the University of Auckland. He is currently the chair of the Science System Advisory Group. Sir Peter is President of the International Science Council (ISC, 2021-2026). From 2014-2021 he was the inaugural Chair of the International Network of Government Science Advice (INGSA), and from 2009-2018 he was the first Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand. He was also Science Envoy for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and coordinated the secretariat of the Small Advanced Economies Initiative. He has written and spoken extensively on science-policy and science-diplomacy and science-society interactions. He has received the highest scientific and civilian honours in New Zealand and numerous international scientific awards. 
    Craig Piggott
    Craig Piggott is the founder of Halter. The company’s solar-powered collar for dairy and beef cows, pairs with an app for farmers and allows cows to respond to guidance cues, enabling virtual herding and fencing while monitoring health 24/7. This innovation helps farmers increase milk and protein production propelling the company to become one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing businesses with a thriving international customer base. Craig brings experience in innovation, agriculture and business.  
    Merryn Tawhai
    Merryn Tawhai graduated from the University of Auckland with a PhD in Engineering Science in 2001. She leads a research programme at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI) in applied computational physiology of the respiratory system. Merryn is the Director of the ABI and sits on the Board of Directors for Cure Kids Ventures and the Virtual Physiological Human Institute. She was ABI’s Deputy Director for 10 years, Director of the Medical Technologies Centre of Research Excellence (MedTech CoRE), and an independent Director for Izon Science. Merryn was awarded the 2016 MacDiarmid Medal by the Royal Society of New Zealand (RSNZ) Te Apārangi, is a Fellow of the RSNZ, a Fellow of IAMBE and AIMBE, and an elected member of the Fleischner Society.
    Komal Mistry-Mehta
    Komal is Chief Innovation & Brand Officer at Fonterra and Managing Director of the Ki Tua Fund, Fonterra’s corporate venture capital arm. She leads global innovation, research and development, digital, brand and marketing functions for New Zealand’s largest company. Prior to joining the Fonterra Executive Team, Komal led Fonterra’s global health and nutrition business based in Singapore. With experience across Asia, the America’s and Europe, she has led major transformations in sales, innovation, digital enablement and technology. Komal was named New Zealand’s Young Executive of the Year in 2017 and serves on several international boards. Komal has completed the Executive Program at Stanford University School of Business and holds Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Management degrees from the University of Waikato. She is a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand as well as a member of the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants.
    Malcolm Johns
    Malcolm is the Chief Executive of Genesis Energy. Previously he was the Chief Executive of InterCity Group and held several governance roles within New Zealand’s transport, infrastructure and tourism sectors. He is Convenor of the Climate Leaders Coalition and served as Chair of the APEC Business Advisory Council leading the regional trade policy task force for climate change. Malcolm has extensive business acumen and understanding of Government systems

    John Roche 
    John was appointed MPI’s Chief Science Adviser in June 2018 to provide an independent science perspective. He leads MPI’s Science Forum, chairs the Science Governance Group at MPI and the independent Mycoplasma bovis Strategic Science Advisory Group. John is also a member of the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Adviser’s forum and is an adjunct professor in University of Auckland’s School of Biological Sciences. John was previously DairyNZ’s Principal Scientist for Animal Science. He has held science appointments in Ireland and Australia. He is also Managing Director of Down to Earth Advice Ltd. Widely published and a regular contributor to international science and farming conferences, John has an Honours degree in Agricultural Science, a Masters in Farm Systems and Pasture Management, and a PhD in Animal Nutrition.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE to seek Middle East opportunities

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee will lead a delegation to the Middle East on Saturday, with his trip encompassing visits to Qatar and Kuwait.

    Executive Council member and Legislative Councillor for the Commercial Functional Constituency Jeffrey Lam, who will be part of Mr Lee’s delegation, explained that the Middle East has seen rapid development in recent years in areas such as finance, infrastructure and tourism. He believes there is significant potential for economic co-operation with Hong Kong, and that the city must accelerate its exploration of emerging overseas markets.

    Mr Lam expressed optimism about the potential for such co-operation, noting that – as an international financial centre – Hong Kong is ideally positioned to advance collaborative efforts in various sectors.

    “Especially after the import duty trade war started by the US, a lot of people do not want to rest all their investments or businesses in the US. So, they are looking into Hong Kong, the Middle East, Association of Southeast Asian Nations countries, etc.”

    Mr Lam added that he hopes the trip can facilitate opportunities for co-operation related to new energy. He highlighted that the Middle East, traditionally reliant on oil, is increasingly interested in diversifying and adopting new technologies.

    “Solar energy is another area that we can develop,” he said. “Imagine 6.5 to 8.5 hours of sunlight, how we can save that energy and use that energy. That needs technology to accomplish it.”

    Mr Lam also outlined that in addition to helping Hong Kong businesses develop opportunities overseas, the delegation hopes to bring in more capital from the Middle East region. This includes attracting companies to set up regional headquarters in Hong Kong, leveraging the city’s role as a hub connecting the Mainland and the rest of the world.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community meets with Assistant Deputy Minister for the Indo-Pacific at Global Affairs Canada/Canada SOM Leader

    Source: ASEAN

    Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community, Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz, today met with the Assistant Deputy Minister for the Indo-Pacific at Global Affairs Canada/Canada Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) Leader, Weldon Epp, at the sidelines of the 22nd ASEAN-Canada Dialogue in Vientiane, Lao PDR. Both sides exchanged views on ways to further advance the ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership and touched upon regional and international issues of common interest and concern.

    photos credit: ASEAN Secretariat
     
    The post Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community meets with Assistant Deputy Minister for the Indo-Pacific at Global Affairs Canada/Canada SOM Leader appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 8, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 8, 2025.

    Women’s sports are fighting an uphill battle against our social media algorithms
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hans Westerbeek, Professor of International Sport Business, Head of Sport Business Insights Group, Victoria University Women’s sport is more and more getting the attention it deserves. Stadiums are filling, television ratings for many sports are climbing and athletes such as the Matildas’ Mary Fowler, triple Olympic gold

    New taxes on super didn’t get much attention in the election campaign. But they could be tricky to implement
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Melatos, Associate Professor of Economics, University of Sydney Poetra.RH/Shutterstock The re-election of the Albanese government has led to renewed concern about planned changes to the taxation of investment returns in superannuation funds. Labor’s emphatic victory on Saturday night, including what looks like an increased presence in

    New Caledonia’s political talks – no outcome after three days of ‘conclave’
    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific Desk After three solid days of talks in retreat mode, New Caledonia’s political parties have yet to reach an agreement on the French Pacific territory’s future status. The talks, held with French Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls and French Prime Minister’s special advisor Eric Thiers, have since

    Forest home of ‘polar dinosaurs’ 120 million years ago in southern Australia recreated in detail for the first time
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vera Korasidis, Lecturer in Environmental Geoscience, The University of Melbourne Artwork © Bob Nicholls 2024 Roughly 140 million to 100 million years ago, the piece of land that is modern day Australia was located much further south on Earth. In fact, what is now Victoria was once

    Ovarian cysts can be painful when they burst. When do you need to see a doctor?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anna Chruścik, Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock Cysts are small pockets of fluid that form inside the body. Ovarian cysts are common, affecting around one in ten women. But sometimes they can cause pain – especially when they burst. You

    Keith Rankin Chart Analysis – International Trade over time: gifts with strings
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. The ‘see-saw’ chart above shows the accumulated ‘excess benefits’ that Aotearoa New Zealand, and a few other countries, have enjoyed from international trade over the last 40 years. These are benefits arising from ‘unbalanced trade’ which are in addition to the regular benefits – arising from efficient specialisation – of ‘balanced’

    ‘Utu’ as foreign policy: how a Māori worldview can make sense of a shifting world order
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicholas Ross Smith, Senior Research Fellow, National Centre for Research on Europe, University of Canterbury Getty Images There is a growing feeling in New Zealand that the regional geopolitical situation is becoming less stable and more conflicted. China has ramped up its Pacific engagement, most recently with

    While the Liberals haemorrhaged, the Nationals held their own. Is it time to break up the Coalition?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Linda Botterill, Visiting Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University Among the notable features of this year’s election campaign was that Australia’s second-oldest political party was apparently missing in action. At the same time, it managed to avoid the rout inflicted on its coalition partner.

    Why is hospital parking so expensive? Two economics researchers explain
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa Farrell, Professor of Economics (Health Economist), RMIT University ThirtyPlus/Shutterstock Imagine having to pay A$39 dollars a day to park your car while visiting your sick child in hospital. For families already struggling in a cost-of-living crisis, hospital parking fees are not just another expense. They can

    Vietnam is poised to become a top 20 economy, so why is Australia taking so long to make trade and investment links?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anne Vo, Senior lecturer in Vietnamese culture and politics, University of Wollongong Aritra Deb/Shutterstock At a time of widespread global trade instability, Australia should be expanding and diversifying its economic partnerships. Supply chains remain fragile, and protectionist rhetoric is once again gaining traction in major Western economies.

    Marvel’s Thunderbolts* shines a light on men’s mental illness – but falls down with this outdated plotline
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emily Baulch, Research Associate, Discipline of Media and Communications, University of Sydney Marvel Studios This piece contains spoilers. Marvel’s men are sad. And that’s a good thing. Thor’s depressed in Avengers: Endgame. Tony Stark has panic attacks in Iron Man 3. Peter grieves in Spider-Man: No Way

    Australia is set to be a renewables nation. After Labor’s win, there’s no turning back
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wesley Morgan, Research Associate, Institute for Climate Risk and Response, UNSW Sydney bmphotographer/Shutterstock An emphatic election victory for the incumbent Labor government means Australia’s rapid shift to renewable energy will continue. As Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said on Saturday: In 2022, the Australian people

    Financial Times: The West’s shameful silence on Gaza – do more to restrain Benjamin Netanyahu
    EDITORIAL: The Financial Times editorial board After 19 months of conflict that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and drawn accusations of war crimes against Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu is once more preparing to escalate Israel’s offensive in Gaza. The latest plan puts Israel on course for full occupation of the Palestinian territory and would

    ‘Under no illusions’ about France, says author of new Rainbow Warrior book
    Pacific Media Watch The author of the book Eyes of Fire, one of the countless publications on the Rainbow Warrior bombing almost 40 years ago but the only one by somebody actually on board the bombed ship, says he was under no illusions that France was behind the attack. Journalist David Robie was speaking last

    Australia doesn’t have a federal Human Rights Act – but the election clears the way for overdue reform
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amy Maguire, Professor in Human Rights and International Law, University of Newcastle Master1305/Shutterstock The Albanese government has achieved an historic re-election, substantially building its majority in the House of Representatives. Much has already been written about the potential for a more ambitious legislative program on the back

    Samoa down in RSF media freedom world ranking due to ‘authoritarian pressure’
    Talamua Online News Samoa has dropped in its media and information freedom world ranking from 22 in 2024 to 44 in 2025 in the latest World Press Freedom Index compiled annually by the Paris-based Reporters Without Borders (RSF). For the Pacific region, New Zealand is ranked highest at 16, Australia at 29, Fiji at 40,

    How maximum security prison inmates and officers worked together to create a farm behind bars
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christian Tietz, Senior Lecturer in Industrial Design, UNSW Sydney Macquarie Correctional Centre Media Unit At Macquarie Correctional Centre in western New South Wales, a story of collaboration and persistence is unfolding. Inmates and prison officers are farming commercial quantities of fresh food in a purpose-built indoor facility.

    Can what you eat during pregnancy and breastfeeding affect whether your child develops food allergies?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jennifer Koplin, Evidence and Translation Lead, National Allergy Centre of Excellence; Chief Investigator, Centre of Food Allergy Research; Associate Professor and Group Leader, Childhood Allergy & Epidemiology Group, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland Maria Evseyeva/Shutterstock Many questions pop up when you’re growing or raising

    How do you put a tariff on movies? Here’s what Trump’s plan could mean for Australia
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark David Ryan, Professor, Film, Screen, Animation, Queensland University of Technology Kirk Wester/Shutterstock US President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a plan to impose a 100% tariff on movies “produced in foreign lands” could have a massive impact on the global entertainment industry. Film and television production

    Labor says its second term will be about productivity reform. These ideas could help shift the dial
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Roy Green, Emeritus Professor of Innovation, University of Technology Sydney Summit Art Creations/Shutterstock In his victory speech, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted social policy as a major factor in Labor’s electoral success, particularly Medicare, housing and cost of living relief. He was justified in doing so. But

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Kudlow on Fox Business to Discuss Trump Administration’s Negotiations With China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Appropriations, Banking, and Foreign Relations Committees and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, joined Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss the Trump Administration’s trade negotiations with China.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*
    Partial Transcript
    Hagerty on the importance of holding China accountable to their end of the trade deal: “I remember being on the phone with you [Larry] during the 2018 G20 when Xi pledged to President [Donald] Trump and stopped fentanyl flowing in the United States. Of course, he didn’t do it. If you think about the $200 billion worth of goods they promised to buy from us in the phase one deal—you were there, you architected this—and they fell through on that too. So, there’s going to be a lot more proof required here. And I think [Treasury] Secretary [Scott] Bessent, Ambassador [Jamieson] Greer are going to be very focused on making certain that whatever the Chinese agreed to, that they’re going to be ascertainable goals, they’re going to be goals that have to be met. And I sure as hell wouldn’t be leading with any sort of forgiveness or easing until we see performance from China.”
    Hagerty on the stark difference between the Biden Admin’s and Trump Admin’s posture towards China: “If you think about it, these partners [other nations] want to extend and deepen their economic relationships with us, Larry. And our economic relationship has to do with security as much as it does our economies and the stronger economic ties. I think the better the opportunity is for us to lock arms from an economic and national security standpoint, and China’s going to see the writing on the walls. They’re going to be left out here. And if you think about the high standard digital trade agreement that we negotiated with Japan in the last administration—you were part of that team—that’s precisely the type of agreement that China could never abide by, with companies like Huawei and contaminated systems like this. So, we are in a position right now like we’ve never been before. I couldn’t agree with you more, [Senator] Kevin [Cramer]. I think that Secretary Bessent and Ambassador Greer have a very strong hand to play as they walk into this. And I’ll just add one more thing, Larry: what a contrast compared to the previous administration that flew four cabinet secretaries over [to China]. Psilocybin mushrooms were on the menu just begging Xi to come to San Francisco for a meeting. Things have definitely changed under President Trump and for the good.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Poll: 86% of respondents rate China’s digital innovation highly

    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

    BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) — Eighty-six percent of respondents rated China’s achievements in digital technology highly, according to a report released Wednesday by the Renmin University of China (RUC) in Beijing.

    The Global Digital Perceptions Report 2025, conducted by the university’s Global Opinion Research Centre, surveyed 7,599 participants from 38 countries using an international online sample.

    The report covers five key areas, including improvements in daily life brought by digital technologies, expectations and concerns about artificial intelligence (AI), and the growing acceptance of China’s digital technologies in the Global South.

    Regional analysis shows that the highest approval rates for Chinese digital technologies are in Africa at 94.3 percent, South America at 93 percent, Southeast Asia at 91.1 percent, South Asia and Central Asia at 90.7 percent, and the Middle East at 88.1 percent.

    According to the report, more than half of respondents consider artificial intelligence and e-commerce to be the leading digital sectors in China. E-commerce platforms such as Temu and SHEIN are rapidly expanding globally due to their competitive prices and efficient supply chains.

    Meanwhile, Chinese AI companies are making rapid progress with open and dynamic development strategies. In regions such as Africa, Chinese AI is increasingly seen as a driving force for intelligent infrastructure and digital governance.

    “Chinese tech companies are widely known as leaders in digital innovation. Earlier this year, the DeepSeek R1 demonstrated high performance with minimal computing resources. Tencent’s Hunyuan and Alibaba’s Qwen large language models also ranked among the leaders in the tests. Meanwhile, Alipay and WeChat Pay continue to expand globally, providing users with convenient payment solutions,” said Zhang Di, a professor at NUS’s School of Journalism and Communication.

    The report also noted that 83.6 percent of respondents from the Global South view Chinese digital technology as a positive force in their countries. Cooperation in technology, infrastructure, and talent development is strengthening, supporting both the internationalization of Chinese tech companies and digital growth in these countries.

    Globally, attitudes toward innovation differ significantly between developing and developed countries: 74.2 percent of people in developing countries closely follow global technology trends, compared with only 50.5 percent in developed countries.

    The survey found that 62.7 percent of respondents believe AI has a positive impact on work efficiency, while 64.9 percent see benefits in student learning. However, only 34.9 percent expressed optimism about AI’s impact on employment opportunities. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese checkpoints see surge in tourist flow over May Day holiday

    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

    BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) — Cities with border checkpoints in China saw a significant increase in the number of foreign tourists crossing the border during the International Labor Day holiday, largely due to the relaxation of visa policies and improved services at checkpoints, according to the National Immigration Administration.

    From April 30 to May 3, foreign nationals passed through Beijing checkpoints 69,000 times, an increase of 52.1 percent year-on-year. The main purposes for entering the country were tourism, visiting relatives, and business trips.

    On May 2, an international flight from Paris landed at Beijing Capital International Airport. When an elderly couple was confused while completing their paperwork at the passport control hall, immigration officer Cui Zhongqing helped them through border control by explaining the rules in French. Cui Zhongqing speaks several foreign languages.

    At the main checkpoints of the Chinese capital, including the international airports of Beijing Capital and Daxing, highly qualified specialists like Cui Zhuqing provide more than 100 consultations per shift in foreign languages. Special corridors have been set up for the elderly, the sick, the disabled and pregnant women, and temporary entry permits and other procedures are processed through a “single window”.

    “It’s now much easier to get a temporary entry permit. You don’t even have to stand in line again. It’s as fast as riding the metro,” a Russian tourist shared.

    The southern Chinese city of Guangzhou recorded more than 154,000 entries and exits from May 1 to 3, up 23 percent year-on-year. “During peak hours, all 34 checkpoint windows were operating at full capacity to ensure travelers could pass through the inspection safely and efficiently,” said Lin Shunyue, an immigration officer at Baiyun Port.

    With the opening of the third phase of the 137th China Import and Export Fair (Guangzhou or Canton Fair), it was a busy period at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. At the arrivals hall, police officers worked with an AI-based consultation system to assist passengers at the designated corridor for exhibitors.

    “After the second phase, we went to Hong Kong, and now we are back for the third. The visa-free regime makes this process very convenient,” the Polish businessman noted.

    The immigration office at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in southwest China’s Sichuan Province operated around the clock during the five-day holiday, allowing overseas arrivals to clear the immigration process immediately upon arrival.

    Thanks to the visa-free entry policy, the Spanish tourist was able to fully enjoy the local attractions, see pandas and taste Sichuan cuisine. “The unique charm of the city, the developed air network and efficient passport control made the trip to Chengdu unforgettable for me,” she said.

    According to the local border control department of Sichuan Province, as of May 3, 160,000 visa-free entries, more than 23,000 transit passengers taking advantage of the 24- or 240-hour visa-free stay rules, and more than 51,000 transit passengers passing through without border control have been registered through Chengdu checkpoints this year.

    China’s National Immigration Administration reported on May 6 that foreign nationals entered China 1.12 million times during the holiday period, up 43.1 percent from a year earlier.

    According to the above-mentioned department, it is especially noteworthy that over 380 thousand of these visits involved people entering China without a visa, which is 72.7 percent more than in the same period last year.

    China currently provides one-way visa-free entry to citizens of 38 countries. In addition, the visa-free transit period for passport holders of 54 countries was extended to 240 hours in December 2024. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: New Godzilla the Ride Film to Be Directed by Academy Award-Winning Takashi Yamazaki

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Toho Entertainment Asia, the Japanese studio’s Singapore-based subsidiary, revealed that Takashi Yamazaki, director and Academy Award–winner of Best Visual Effects for Godzilla Minus One will write, direct and produce the VFX for a brand‑new Godzilla ride attraction.

    Director Takashi Yamazaki’s first Godzilla ride attraction project, “Godzilla the Ride: Giant Monsters Ultimate Battle,” which is currently showing at Seibuen Amusement Park, Japan, has earned global acclaim for its exceptional quality and epic scale, regularly seeing an outstanding audience satisfaction rate.

    The new experience will be distributed to additional locations via the iRide system developed by Taiwan’s Brogent Technologies, Inc.

    “I’m thrilled to return to Godzilla’s world from the passenger seat”, said Yamazaki. “What powerful foes will emerge? Where will this ride take us next? As a ride enthusiast myself, I can’t wait for my first spin – and I’m working day and night with our team to make this the most terrifying ride in the world.”

    While there are few specifics about the content of the new attraction, the plan is for the scope and scale to surpass that of the original acclaimed theme park experience, offering fans once again an experience unlike anything they’ve ever witnessed featuring the King of the Monsters.

    The newly produced ride attraction experience will begin rolling out in Summer 2025.

    Featured venues will include leading theme parks and entertainment centers utilizing Brogent’s iRide system. Exact locations and launch dates will be announced soon.

    Social Links

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godzilla_asia/

    Facebook: https://bit.ly/GodzillaAsia

    Media Contact

    Company: Toho Entertainment Asia

    Contact: Sales Team

    Email: hello@tohoea.com.sg

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Red Cross establishes over 1,000 rescue teams

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

    Members of the Chinese Red Cross International Emergency Response Team conduct rescue efforts in Mandalay, Myanmar, March 31, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Red Cross Society of China (RCSC) has established over 1,000 specialized teams with approximately 100,000 personnel for emergency rescue duties, according to a press conference on Wednesday.

    These teams operate across eight fields, spanning disaster relief, medical aid, water supply management, public health services, emergency transport, psychological support, search and rescue, and aquatic rescue operations.

    The RCSC activated emergency response measures 565 times and deployed 775,000 relief items in 2024, said Wang Bin, deputy president of the organization.

    The RCSC is further committed to leveraging its grassroots networks and volunteers, integrating technological solutions to enhance rescue capacities, and collaborating with emergency response agencies to deliver rapid humanitarian assistance to disaster-stricken communities.

    In addition, Chinese Red Cross Foundation President Bei Xiaochao highlighted the foundation’s closed-loop system, which covers everything from fundraising and resource allocation to compliance monitoring.

    Bei said that the foundation maintains real-time updates on relief operations and the distribution of materials in compliance with regulations, ensures the public disclosure of donation receipts and expenditures, and publishes audit reports for transparency.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Historic victory returns some of Chinese snooker’s lost luster

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

    In a moment that will reverberate far beyond the walls of the Crucible Theatre, China’s Zhao Xintong etched his name into sporting history by becoming the first Asian to win the World Snooker Championship.

    With a commanding victory over three-time world champion Mark Williams, 28-year-old Zhao not only claimed his first world title, but also redefined the global landscape of a sport long dominated by British players.

    “I can’t believe it. It’s like a dream,” said Zhao, his voice trembling as he raised the Chinese national flag beside the table.

    Zhao Xintong celebrates with the trophy after claiming the title by defeating Mark Williams of Wales in the final at World Snooker Championship 2025 in Sheffield, Britain, May 5, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Just months earlier, Zhao had rejoined competitive events as an amateur following a 20-month suspension for his involvement in match-fixing. His success at the Crucible was more than a win. It was a moment of arrival for himself, for Chinese snooker, and for the global game.

    A MILESTONE FOR ASIA

    Zhao’s win marks the first time in snooker’s modern history since 1969 that the world title has been won by an Asian player. He becomes the fourth champion from outside the United Kingdom and Ireland, following Canada’s Cliff Thorburn (1980), Neil Robertson of Australia (2010), and Belgium’s Luca Brecel (2023).

    Yet Zhao’s victory added symbolic weight: it is the culmination of China’s decades-long effort to develop snooker from a niche interest to a national movement.

    “I once said, ‘I’m glad to see that the threshold I shattered back then has become a runway for everyone.’ Today someone has finally crossed the finish line on that runway,” wrote Chinese icon Ding Junhui, who reached the World Championship final in 2016.

    “He has achieved the dream that generations of Chinese snooker players have shared,” Ding added.

    Zhao’s triumph echoed another landmark moment for Chinese snooker two decades ago. In the 2005 China Open final, Ding, then just 18 and playing as a wildcard, stunned the snooker world by defeating legend Stephen Hendry to claim China’s first ranking title.

    However, the sport itself faced a turning point. At that time, snooker was struggling in its traditional heartland. A European Union ban on tobacco advertising had stripped the sport of long-time sponsors, and its unpredictable match durations made broadcasting inconvenient. By the 2005-06 season, the snooker calendar had shrunk to just six ranking events.

    At that critical juncture, China’s interest in the game, backed by a vast population, emerging media market and surging youth participation, proved to be a lifeline. Ding’s victory helped ignite a snooker boom in China that would change the sport’s future.

    In the 2024-25 season, snooker has nearly 20 ranking tournaments, a dramatic revival made possible, in large part, by China’s sustained investment and growing influence.

    Once there was only Ding as an elite Chinese player; now there is a whole generation. A record 10 Chinese players qualified for the main draw at this year’s World Championship, six of whom reached the last 16. Moreover, nine Chinese players are currently ranked inside the world’s top 32.

    This depth of talent is no accident. Over the past two decades, China has invested heavily in snooker infrastructure from grassroots clubs to elite academies. In cities like Dongguan, Guangzhou and Beijing, children learn the sport in specialized training centers, guided by a growing network of coaches, many of them trained overseas.

    “Snooker used to be seen as just a hobby,” said Huang Zhufeng, head of the World Snooker Academy’s Guangdong branch. “Now it’s a real career path — a sport the country is proud of.”

    FROM CHINA TO WORLD

    As the talent pool expanded, so did the calendar. China now hosts nearly one-third of professional ranking events each season, far more than any other country outside the U.K..

    Tournaments in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, and the small but iconic town of Yushan are now fixtures on the global snooker circuit. The Yushan International Billiards Culture Center, home to the World Snooker Hall of Fame and Museum, has been dubbed “the second Crucible” by players.

    Jason Ferguson, chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association, said the sport’s growth in China has reshaped its global future.

    “China has developed its own history in the sport. It’s no longer a U.K.-based sport, and it’s no longer just U.K. players. We’ve learned a lot in China of how to develop snooker, and some of those things we’ve learned, we are now taking them to new countries and helping those to develop as well,” Ferguson said.

    The sport also has a fast-growing fanbase in China. A report shows that by 2022, China’s billiards and snooker enthusiasts have surpassed 210 million, with an increase of 180 percent year-on-year. According to a survey from data analysis provider iiMedia Research, more than 100,000 billiards-related businesses were registered in China in 2023 alone. In April 2024, the number of 24-hour self-service snooker halls grew by 25 percent year-on-year.

    Millions of Chinese fans tuned in to Zhao’s final late at night, with their excitement visible in the fast-scrolling comments flooding livestream platforms.

    For a long time, snooker was a sport of British tradition. Zhao’s victory symbolized the start of a new chapter: one that reflects a more global, diverse, and dynamic future for the sport.

    “I did realize that my victory is important for Chinese snooker,” Zhao said in an exclusive interview with Xinhua.

    “Zhao’s title highlights China’s 40-year resilient snooker journey on the global stage. What we’re seeing now is just the beginning,” Huang noted. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese ice hockey veteran defies age to reach career peak

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

    At 36, most athletes are winding down their careers. But Yu Baiwei, captain of China’s women’s ice hockey team, is unfazed by this notion.

    “If anyone doubts my fitness, just watch me when I hit the ice,” she said.

    As the only team member born in the 1980s, Yu has been a competitive fixture for 20 years.

    She made her national team debut at 17 and played in the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, where China placed seventh, and led the squad to a ninth-place finish on home ice at Beijing 2022.

    Yu Baiwei (R) of China vies with Klara Hymlarova of the Czech Republic during the women’s ice hockey preliminary round Group B match between China and the Czech Republic at Wukesong Sports Center in Beijing, China, Feb. 3, 2022. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

    At the 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championship Division I Group A, held in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen in April, the veteran was named China’s best player.

    LATE CAREER PEAK

    “Most people think my prime was in my twenties,” Yu reflected. “Actually, I think that I have been getting stronger and more skilled since 29.”

    The secret is self-discipline. Since then, Yu has barely taken a real off-season break. Back home in Harbin, she trained with male players to sharpen her skills and address her weaknesses, and also put in extra hours at the gym.

    “I know the older I get, the harder I will bounce back from fatigue. That’s why I can’t afford to fall behind,” she explained.

    19-year-old goalkeeper Zhan Jiahui called Yu a role model. “She trains through discomfort, targets her weaknesses, and stays in peak condition. She’s the oldest on the team, but still one of the best. She’s inspired me so much.”

    “My mentality is wired for high-intensity competition,” said Yu. “When I set a goal, I give it 120 percent. I just want to see how far I can go.

    “Don’t let the age define what you can achieve. If you have a dream, go for it. It’s never too late.”

    PLAYING THROUGH PAIN

    Yu has rarely been injury-free throughout her career. Chronic shoulder dislocations, a torn ligament in her left knee, and ankle damage are just a few entries on her long injury list.

    “It’s uncomfortable,” she admitted, “but I’ve learned to live with it.”

    Ahead of Beijing 2022, she tore her left anterior cruciate ligament, a career-threatening injury. But Yu denied doctors’ recommendation for surgery. Instead, she strapped on a knee brace, trained the surrounding muscles, and went back on the ice.

    She hasn’t taken the brace off since.

    Time and again, she’s chosen rehab over surgery, putting her national team duties above anything else. “Some people joke that I’m a medical miracle,” she laughed.

    In February’s 2026 Winter Olympic qualifiers, with a shoulder injury limiting the use of her shooting arm, Yu managed to score against hosts Japan. The goal lifted her team’s morale in a tough match.

    “Pain wears you down,” she admitted. “But once you’ve pushed through it, life becomes more fun.”

    A LEGACY BEYOND ICE

    “Each stage of my career has brought new responsibilities,” Yu said. “I’m lucky to have spent 20 years with this team, including two Olympics, it’s a complete career.”

    Yet one goal remains for Yu: leading China back into the world’s top eight. “Wearing the national jersey isn’t just about pride – it’s a responsibility. That belief is in my bones. And I want to pass it on.”

    As a player and assistant coach, Yu is helping build the team’s future. China is currently going through a transitional period, with a new generation of players rising and veterans like Kong Minghui and Zhao Qinan holding the line.

    For Yu, the path ahead is clear. “Whether I’m a player, a coach, or in any other role, I’ll keep contributing to Chinese hockey,” she said. “This sport has shaped my life. I want to help our team stand firm in the world.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Solomon Islands – Central Honiara Constituency Boosts HCC health service delivery with brand-new vehicles

    Source: Government of the Solomon ISlands – Ministry of Rural Development (MRD)

    The Central Honiara Constituency (CHC) office has provided timely support with the delivery of two brand-new 15-seater buses worth $497,231.80 to the Honiara City Council (HCC), Health Division last week, Friday.

    The assistance was part of the constituency’s ongoing commitment and resolute action under the leadership of Honourable Member of Parliament (MP), Gordon Darcy Lilo, to boost the delivery of healthcare services to communities within the constituency.

    The support was made possible under the national government’s Constituency Development Funds (CDF) programme with funding from the CHC budget allocation for 2024.

    Direct beneficiaries are Mbokonavera Clinic and Mataniko Pikinini Clinic.  

    The generous assistance is targeted towards improving logistics and supporting the transportation needs of the council’s health outreach programs, medical supply delivery, community health workers’ mobility, and for transporting critically sick patients from respective clinics to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) for immediate medical attention if the need arises.

    “…because of the obvious challenge our nurses from these clinics faced every day with transportation, we stepped in to support, ensuring our nurses reach their work stations on time to serve our clinics, the constituents, and the wider Honiara community. Not only that, but one of the constituency’s top priorities is support for health under the essential services sector, to ensure quality and timely health services are accessible for our people,” Constituency Development Officer (CDO) Rexford Paul explained.

    Mr. Paul further said, “Working collaboratively with HCC is one of our missions going forward under the Essential Services sector.

    “It is the firm commitment of the constituency office, under the guidance of our Member of Parliament Gordon Darcy Lilo, to put the community first through strategic support and partnership.

    “This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen service delivery and ensure the well-being of our people. We are proud to stand with the Honiara City Council in this shared mission,” he underscored.

    Meanwhile, the Honiara City Clerk, Justus Denni, while acknowledging the generous assistance, recognized Hon. Lilo’s leadership and his constituency’s officers for their strong commitment to public service and community well-being, adding that the provision of this logistical support will greatly enhance the delivery of the much-needed health services in Honiara.          

    Held at the HCC Car Park, the handover ceremony was attended by the City Clerk Justus Denni, HCC’s Health Director, Dr Lawrance Diau, Nurses from Mbokonavera and Mataniko Clinics, CHC Officers, CHC Ward Leaders, and HCC staff.

    Constituency Development Program is a national programme of the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) administered by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD).

    It is implemented by the 50 constituencies in the country, purposely to improve the socio-economic livelihoods of Solomon Islanders.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Golden monkeys from China make European debut at French zoo

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

    Three golden monkeys from China made their public debut on Wednesday at the ZooPark of Beauval in central France, marking the species’ first journey outside Asia.

    The three primates – one male and two females – arrived in early April from the Shanghai Wild Animal Park, accompanied by a Chinese caretaker, and have since completed a month-long quarantine period.

    Their arrival is part of a ten-year partnership between the ZooPark of Beauval and the China Wildlife Conservation Association, aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation in wildlife protection and conservation.

    At a welcoming ceremony, the zoo’s director, Rodolphe Delord, unveiled the names of the new residents: Jindou (Golden Seed), Jinbao (Golden Treasure), and Jinhua (Golden Flower). These names were chosen through an online naming competition launched earlier this year.

    “Like the pandas, the arrival of these primates strengthens the ties between France and China in the field of animal conservation,” Delord said during the event. “We hope to see the birth of babies soon, which can then be returned to China for reintroduction into their natural environment.”

    The ZooPark of Beauval previously welcomed giant pandas Huanhuan and Yuanzai from China in 2012, launching a Sino-French cooperation program on panda breeding. With the arrival of the golden monkeys, the zoo has become the first outside Asia to host this rare and endangered species.

    The golden monkey is native to the mountainous forests of central and southwest China. Known for its striking golden-orange fur and distinctive upturned nose, the golden monkey is a national treasure in China and is under top-level state protection. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Why historical truth of WWII should never be distorted

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

    Aircraft fly in formation over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 5, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of victory in World War II (WWII). Chinese President Xi Jinping travels to Russia on Wednesday for a state visit and celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War.

    The commemoration stands as a powerful reminder of the brutality of war, the precious hard-won peace and stability, and the importance of historical truth — especially at a time when the world is grappling with a resurgence in unilateralism, economic coercion and hegemonic mentality.

    What is alarming is that in recent years, there have been repeated attempts to distort or deny the legacy of the WWII victory. These attempts, drawing widespread criticism and concern, have reminded the world of the necessity to safeguard the integrity of the history of WWII.

    WHO IS DISTORTING WWII HISTORY?

    In these years, politicians from certain countries have sought to achieve political gains by manipulating historical truth.

    “We are witnessing increasing efforts to rehabilitate Nazism and racial supremacy, glorify Nazis and their collaborators, and revive practices of racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance,” Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Xinhua in a recent interview.

    In March, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, while attending a memorial service on Iwo Jima to honor those who died in one of WWII’s pivotal battles, claimed Japan as being indispensable in tackling “Chinese aggression” and complimented the “valor” of Japanese soldiers.

    Hegseth’s remarks sparked sharp criticism, with many viewing them as an attempt to whitewash Japan’s militarism during WWII. His comments were also seen as a betrayal of those who sacrificed their lives in anti-fascist fight.

    Such attempts to distort or deny the history of the World Anti-Fascist War are not new.

    After WWII, as the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union intensified, Washington chose to support Japan as a strategic counterweight in Asia. In doing so, the remnants of Japanese fascism were not fully eradicated.

    Until this day, some right-wing Japanese politicians still refuse to renounce Japan’s militaristic past, and even question or deny the outcomes of the war.

    They continue to pay tribute to the notorious Yasukuni Shrine, which honors 14 convicted Class-A Japanese WWII war criminals, revise high school history textbooks to downplay Japan’s wartime atrocities, and deny the forced recruitment of “comfort women” by the Japanese military during WWII.

    “In recent years, Japan has recklessly tampered with textbooks, and the theory of no guilt for aggression has a relatively large market in Japan,” said Sun Huixiu, an associate professor with the School of History at Beijing Normal University.

    Similar historic revisionism took place in the West. There have been attempts by some Western countries to downplay or even completely deny the role of the Red Army and the Soviet people in the victory over Nazism.

    A survey conducted by IFOP, an international market research group, in May 1945 showed that 57 percent of French people credited the Soviet Union with having made the greatest contribution to Nazi defeat, compared to just 20 percent backing the United States and 12 percent Britain.

    However, by 2018, a YouGov survey showed a dramatic shift in public perception: 56 percent of the French believed the United States played the most important role, 11 percent credited Britain, and only 15 percent recognized Russia’s contribution.

    WHY HISTORICAL TRUTH SO IMPORTANT?

    During the deadliest military conflict in human history 80 years ago, more than 80 countries and regions, involving roughly 2 billion people, were drawn into the war. More than 100 million worldwide were killed or wounded, and global economic losses exceeded 4 trillion U.S. dollars.

    To resist fascist aggression, more than 50 countries, including China and the Soviet Union, formed a united front. As the main theater in the East during the World Anti-Fascist War, China paid a heavy price — over 35 million casualties in its fight against the majority troops of Japanese militarism.

    A woman visits the site used to be a bacterial laboratory at the former site of the Unit 731 in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Dec. 13, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei)

    Preserving the truth of history is the most meaningful tribute to the soldiers and civilians who perished during WWII. It is also a foundation for reconciliation between former belligerent nations.

    “How should we respond to the sin of the Holocaust for which we should take responsibility? Summing up the past can be a prerequisite to reconciliation,” said former German Chancellor Angela Merkel during her visit to Japan in 2015.

    More importantly, as noted by Xi at the general debate of the 70th session of the UN General Assembly back in 2015, history is a mirror, and only by drawing lessons from history can the world avoid repeating past calamities.

    After WWII, the Allied powers carried out the Nuremberg and Tokyo Trials, which marked the first time in human history that war criminals were prosecuted before an international tribunal, delivering rightful punishment, upholding international justice and sending a powerful warning to fascist forces.

    Based on the WWII victory, key members of the anti-fascist alliance jointly initiated the founding of the United Nations and formulated a series of important international documents including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation and the Charter of the United Nations, which laid the foundation for the modern international order and established the basic norms governing contemporary international relations.

    “These instruments helped to hold fascist crimes accountable, and through a series of institutional frameworks, effectively placed a ‘security lock’ on the postwar world to help preserve peace,” said He Lei, former vice president of the Academy of Military Science of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, in an article.

    Since the end of WWII, the world has witnessed a level of global prosperity unprecedented in human history thanks to the largely peaceful era it has been in. “We need to firmly remember the history of WWII and maintain the world political and economic order,” said Sun.

    “Today, it seems no one disputes that the victory over fascism and militarism was one of humanity’s greatest achievements in the 20th century,” said Kirill Babayev, director of the Institute of China and Modern Asia at the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    This underscores that Russia and China must remain at the forefront of preserving this memory, he noted.

    “In the global agenda, we must uphold a position that demands full respect for historical truth, rejects its distortion, and, above all, safeguards the memory of those who perished during World War II while defending our freedom,” he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dave Gallagher Named 11th Director of JPL as Laurie Leshin Steps Down

    Source: NASA

    Laurie Leshin has decided to step down as director of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory on Sunday, June 1. David Gallagher, who has been serving as the Lab’s associate director for Strategic Integration, has been selected by Caltech to lead the federally funded research and development center. Caltech manages JPL for NASA.
    A distinguished geochemist, Leshin was named by Caltech to lead the lab in early 2022. Her career has spanned academia and senior positions at NASA. Several NASA missions managed by JPL have launched under her leadership, including EMIT, SWOT, Psyche, PREFIRE, Europa Clipper, and SPHEREx, with the NASA-Indian Earth satellite NISAR set for a June launch. In addition, JPL has advanced the development of NASA’s asteroid-hunting NEO Surveyor mission as well as the trio of CADRE lunar rovers, and it delivered the Coronagraph Instrument, a technology demonstration with NASA’s forthcoming Roman Space Telescope.
    “I am proud of the many things JPL has accomplished over the past three years,” said Leshin. “In addition to the long list of missions that have launched or moved toward launch during that time, we saved Voyager more than once and flew into history on Mars with Ingenuity. We have made more amazing scientific discoveries than I can name, including finding potential ancient Martian biomarkers with Perseverance. And we’ve driven the forefront of technology on Earth and in space. I know those achievements will continue under Dave’s capable leadership.”
    Leshin, who has also served as Caltech vice president, is stepping down for personal reasons and will remain a Bren Professor of Geochemistry and Planetary Science at Caltech.
    “While we respect Laurie’s decision to step away from her leadership position at JPL, we will miss her drive, compassion, and dedication,” Caltech President Thomas Rosenbaum said. “At the same time, we are grateful to Dave Gallagher for his devotion to JPL and his continuing leadership and partnership going forward. Dave’s experience working across multiple government and private sector entities will help secure ongoing support for America’s agenda in space, with JPL continuing to play an essential role.”
    Gallagher will draw on his deep experience at JPL to lead the lab into the future. He arrived at JPL 36 years ago, in 1989, and went on to hold numerous leadership positions. Along with having served as the director and deputy director for Astronomy, Physics, and Space Technology, he was manager of JPL’s Advanced Optical Systems Program Office. An electrical engineer, Gallagher also managed the Spitzer Space Telescope and, among other roles, led the team that built and tested the Wide Field/Planetary Camera 2 (WF/PC-2) — a critical instrument that corrected the spherical aberration on NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope.
    “Laurie has made a significant impact on energizing and focusing the lab, guiding it back on track after the Covid-19 pandemic. I wish her great success in this next chapter of her career, and I look forward to a very smooth transition at the lab,” said Gallagher. “We have exciting opportunities ahead helping to advance our nation’s space agenda and a fantastic team to help realize them.”
    Founded by Caltech faculty and students in 1936, JPL has been managed by Caltech on behalf of NASA since 1958.
    News Media Contacts
    Matthew Segal / Veronica McGregorJet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.818-354-8307 / 818-354-9452matthew.j.segal@jpl.nasa.gov / veronica.c.mcgregor@jpl.nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Myanmar: Life-saving education funding must be restored following USAID cuts 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The United States and other governments must urgently find funding for education programmes in Myanmar that were a lifeline for students, teachers and families in the war-torn country, Amnesty International said today, as it warned of a “lost generation” if no action is taken.

    Testimony from teachers and students gathered by Amnesty International showed the impact on Myanmar students of US President Donald Trump’s sweeping cuts to foreign aid, which included the termination of more than US$70 million in funding for education programmes in Myanmar, according to those involved in the efforts.

    “The battering of Myanmar’s education sector since the 2021 military coup has robbed millions of young people of opportunities. These US cuts to education programmes now make the prospect of a lost generation increasingly likely,” said Joe Freeman, Amnesty International’s Myanmar Researcher.

    “But it is not too late to fill this vacuum in Myanmar students’ education. Governments and universities in the US and beyond must find a way to enable them to continue their studies and prevent them being sent back to a conflict zone, where they are at risk of arbitrary detention, torture and other ill-treatment; aerial and ground attacks on their communities; and forced conscription into a military that routinely resorts to human rights abuses as a strategy of war.”

    The US-funded education programmes, enacted after the coup, supported Myanmar students studying at Southeast Asian universities; online higher education initiatives; and basic education services for children in ethnic, remote and rural communities.

    They were a rare bright spot in an ever-deteriorating human rights situation in the country, where to date more than 6,000 civilians have been killed and more than 20,000 detained. In 2025, nearly 20 million people are expected to need humanitarian assistance.

    A 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025, killing nearly 4,000 people and destroying hospitals, homes, monasteries and at least 1,000 schools, has only exacerbated these needs. It will also create additional hurdles for students seeking an education after more than four years of armed conflict in the country.

    “The US cuts to foreign aid made a bad situation worse. The Trump administration must reverse course and not abandon Myanmar students working to fulfill their dreams under extremely challenging circumstances. But if the US continues to fail Myanmar’s young people, other governments, universities and donors must step up and help,” Joe Freeman said.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: New Book – Modernising Islam? The Limits of Liberal Reforms in Muslim Nations – by Rumy Hasan

    Source: MTP.Agency a book by Rumy Hasan

    Modernising Islam? The Limits of Liberal Reforms in Muslim Nations explores the complex and often fraught attempts at modernisation in Muslim-majority countries. From Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 to the UAE’s drive for economic diversification, and from Turkey’s reversal of Atatürk’s secular reforms to Tunisia’s struggles post-Arab Spring, this book critically examines the challenges of reconciling liberal reforms with deeply entrenched religious and political structures.

    Author Rumy Hasan provides a thought-provoking analysis of whether these reforms represent genuine progress or merely superficial adjustments to maintain power. Drawing on historical context and contemporary developments, he explores key issues, including the role of Sharia law, the status of women, freedom of expression, and the relationship between Islam and democracy.

    With in-depth case studies spanning the Gulf states, North Africa, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia, this book questions whether meaningful change is possible in societies where religion remains deeply intertwined with governance. It also considers whether Saudi Arabia’s recent reformist rhetoric could set a precedent for the wider Islamic world—or whether entrenched theological doctrines will continue to limit progress.

    A compelling and incisive read, this book is essential for anyone interested in global politics, Middle Eastern affairs, and the intersection of religion and modernity.

    This book is instructive, precise and very well documented. Taking in consideration different Islamic countries, it explains how difficult the reformation of Islam is. And when reforms have been adopted, there remains always the danger of cancelling them, as happened with Turkey after Atatürk’s death.

    – Prof Sami Aldeeb, Director, Centre of Arab and Islamic Law, St Sulpice, Switzerland

    Rumy Hasan approaches difficult issues in the Muslim world with a sharp intellect and penetrating analysis.

    – Sir Alan Duncan, former UK Foreign Minister

    Paperback (236 pages) £9.99; $13.25; Ebook £3.99; $4.50
    Michael Terence Publishing, 2025;
    ISBN-139781800949836; 9781805880196
    ASIN: ‏B0F4FLKJKN

    Available now from book outlets and distributors worldwide.
     
    About the Author
    Rumy Hasan is Associate Professor at SPRU, University of Sussex and a Visiting Professorial Research Fellow at Civitas. His previous books include Multiculturalism: Some Inconvenient Truths; Dangerous Liaisons: The Clash between Islamism and Zionism; Religion and Development in the Global South; and Modern Europe and the Enlightenment.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: BH 25-2: 18th CES ensures readiness through rapid response and inspection

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    KADENA AIR BASE, Japan – An Explosive Ordnance Disposal team assigned to the 18th Civil Engineer Squadron conducted a massive mechanical clearance to a post attack scenario in support of a routine readiness exercise at Kadena Air Base, Japan, May 7, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WRRC Webinar: Enhancing National Systems for Assessing Loss and Damage

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    This webinar, a precursor to the World Resilient Recovery Conference (WRRC), aims to explore these critical practical and policy challenges in post-disaster loss and damage assessments while highlighting emerging solutions that can ensure that countries are better prepared to assess, quantify, and respond to disaster-induced losses in an increasingly risk-prone world.

    This webinar is jointly organized by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), the Government of India and the Gorvernment of the Philippines.

    Background

    In recent decades, natural hazards—including climate-induced disasters—have become increasingly frequent and severe, causing immense human and economic devastation and significantly hindering sustainable development. In 2023 alone, 399 disasters claimed over 86,000 lives, affected 93.1 million people, and caused economic losses of approximately USD 202.7 billion. 

    These alarming figures underscore the urgent necessity for robust, accurate, and timely loss and damage assessment mechanisms to facilitate effective recovery and secure timely financial support. The varied nature of risks faced by countries also underscores the importance of a whole-of-society, multi-hazard risk approach that bridges disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation and accounts for non-economic losses. 

    However, several systemic barriers impede countries’ ability to conduct comprehensive loss and damage assessments. Methodological inconsistencies and lack of international standardization frequently lead to conflicting loss estimates. Data gaps and insufficient baseline information further complicate accurate loss evaluations. Limited technical capacities and fragmented institutional coordination exacerbate delays. Additionally, significant challenges remain in quantifying non-economic losses. 

    At the same time, emerging technologies and innovative policy approaches present promising solutions. Advanced geospatial technologies, including satellite imagery, drones, and AI-based analytics, have rapidly enhanced assessment capabilities. The establishment of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) at COP28 provides a significant opportunity for developing countries. International initiatives such as the Santiago Network or the International Recovery Platform (IRP) are also playing a critical role in strengthening national capacities. 

    Session objectives

    1. Diagnose current bottlenecks: Pinpoint the methodological, institutional and data-related challenges that delay or distort post-disaster loss-and-damage assessments.
    2. Exchange practical lessons: Share concrete experiences from recent disasters—what worked, what did not—and distil transferrable practices.
    3. Showcase emerging solutions that can close critical assessment gaps.
    4. Highlight linkages to regional and global mechanisms of support for countries.
    5. Suggest priority actions that integrate solutions, build technical capacity and institutionalise assessments.

    Speakers

    • Mr. S K Jindal, Additional Secretary, Disaster Management Division, Ministry of Home Affairs, India
    • Ms. Noralene M. Uy, Assistant Secretary for Policy, Planning and Foreign-Assisted and Special Projects, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Government of the Philippines

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOU for deepening cooperation & peace as enshrined in the teachings of the Buddha

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 8:31PM by PIB Delhi

    During the exposition in Vietnam of the Holy Relics of the Buddha from India to coincide with the United Nations (UN) Day of Vesak 2025, in the presence of the Head of Indian Delegation, Union Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju an MOU was signed by the Secretary General of International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) Ven. Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden and the President of the National Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS), and Dhamma Council member of IBC, Most Ven. Dr Thich Thien Nhon.

    This Memorandum of Understanding was in pursuance to the agreement signed on 29 May 2022 between the two bodies in the spirit of deepening cooperation and advancing the shared ideals of compassion, wisdom, and peace as enshrined in the teachings of the Buddha.

    This declaration, the official launch of the Vietnam Chapter of the International Buddhist Confederation was also signed, as a witness by the Vice President of the Sangha, Most Ven. Thich Thien Phap and from India by the Director General of IBC, Mr. Abhijit Halder, in the presence of the Indian Ambassador to Vietnam, Shri Sandeep Arya and Most Ven. Dr Thich Nhat Tu, Standing Vice Chancellor, Vietnam Buddhist University and Vice President of IBC. It was attended by several senior Sangha members from the Vietnamese, including VBS members who have been actively involved in India related activities on the VBS.

     

    This Chapter shall broadly serve as a platform to promote the core values of Buddha Dhamma in Vietnam and beyond, contributing to global peace, harmony, and sustainable development; besides strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among Buddhist traditions, schools, and practitioners across nations.

    It would also facilitate cultural, educational, and humanitarian exchange programs and support research, publications, and events that enhance understanding and dissemination of Buddhist teachings.

    The agreement also enables representation of Vietnam’s Buddhist community in regional and international forums coordinated by the IBC.

    The IBC and the VBS have been traditional partners since the inception of IBC. Senior members of the VBS are members in the governing Body of IBC. This agreement will further strengthen bonds between the Buddhist bodies of the two countries.

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2127603) Visitor Counter : 15

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah, chairs a security review meeting with the Lieutenant Governors and Chief Ministers of border states adjoining Pakistan and Nepal

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah, chairs a security review meeting with the Lieutenant Governors and Chief Ministers of border states adjoining Pakistan and Nepal

    All Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors present during the meeting congratulates Prime Minister Modi and the three armed forces for the success of Operation Sindoor

    Operation Sindoor, Bharat’s befitting reply to those who dare to challenge its borders, military, and citizens

    Appropriate response has been given to Pahalgam terror attack through Operation Sindoor, sending a strong message to the entire world

    Operation Sindoor demonstrates Modi government’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism to the entire world

    The unity displayed by the nation at this time has boosted the morale of the countrymen

    Ensure smooth operation of essential services such as hospitals, fire services, etc.; ensure uninterrupted supply of essential goods

    Home Minister directs states to keep SDRF, Civil Defence, Home Guards, NCC, etc., on alert to handle any situation

    Anti-national propaganda by undesirable elements in social and other media platforms should be strictly monitored; prompt action should be taken in coordination with state governments and central agencies

    Every possible effort should be made to maintain seamless communication and the security of vulnerable points should also be improved

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 7:12PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, today chaired a security review meeting in New Delhi with the Lieutenant Governors and Chief Ministers of border states adjoining Pakistan and Nepal. The meeting was attended via video conferencing by the Lieutenant Governors of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and West Bengal, and a representative from the Sikkim government. Senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), including the Union Home Secretary, Director of Intelligence Bureau (IB), Director General of Border Security Force (BSF), and Director General of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), were also present.

     

    In the meeting, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that after the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had said that the country would give a befitting reply to the perpetrators and supporters of the terror attack. The Home Minister expressed gratitude for Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s firm resolve and decision regarding Operation Sindoor. He stated that Operation Sindoor is a befitting reply from Bharat to those who dare to challenge India’s borders, military, and citizens. All Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors present in the meeting congratulated Prime Minister Modi and the three armed forces for the success of Operation Sindoor.

    Union Home Minister said that, without ignoring the Pahalgam terrorist attack, an appropriate response was given through Operation Sindoor, sending a strong message to the world. He said that Operation Sindoor, launched by the Indian armed forces against terrorist camps after specific inputs, is a testament to the Modi government’s zero tolerance policy against terrorism to the entire world. Shri Shah said that the unity shown by the country at this time has boosted the morale of the countrymen.

    Shri Amit Shah said that in the intervening night of May 6-7, 2025, the Indian armed forces attacked nine specific locations linked to terrorists, destroying their infrastructure. The Home Minister said that in the operation carried out by Indian armed forces, terrorist training camps, weapon bases, and hideouts of organizations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul Mujahideen, and other terrorist groups were completely destroyed.

    Union Home Minister said that all states should make their preparations as per the guidelines issued for the mock drill. He said that arrangements should be made for smooth operation of essential services like hospitals, fire brigade etc. and uninterrupted supply of essential goods should be ensured. The Home Minister asked the states to keep SDRF, Civil Defence, Home Guards, NCC etc. on alert to deal with any situation. He said that efforts should be made to ensure public participation through citizens and non-governmental organisations.

    Shri Amit Shah said that strict vigil should be kept on anti-national propaganda by unwanted elements on social and other media platforms and prompt action should be taken in coordination with state governments and central agencies. The Home Minister said that every effort should be made to maintain seamless communication and the security of vulnerable points should also be further strengthened. He asked the states to stop spreading unnecessary fear among the public and take steps to spread awareness among the people against rumours. He said that coordination between the local administration, army and paramilitary forces should be further enhanced.

     

    ****

    RK/VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2127583) Visitor Counter : 147

    Read this release in: Hindi

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: C-DOT and CSIR-NPL Sign MoU to Advance Collaborative Research in Classical and Quantum Communications

    Source: Government of India

    C-DOT and CSIR-NPL Sign MoU to Advance Collaborative Research in Classical and Quantum Communications

    The two institutions will work together for Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), standardization and characterization of quantum communication systems, single-photon sources and detectors, EIT (Electromagnetically Induced Transparency)-based quantum systems, FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array)-based control electronics.

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 6:21PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant step towards advancing indigenous capabilities in classical and quantum communication technologies, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and the CSIR–National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a collaborative framework for joint research and innovation. C-DOT, India’s premier telecom R&D institution under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), continues to lead innovation in telecommunications, including switching systems, network protocols, IoT, M2M, wireless and quantum communications. CSIR-NPL, the National Metrology Institute (NMI) of India, is the custodian of national standards and has a rich legacy of conducting cutting-edge research in metrology, materials, and environmental sciences.

    The primary objective of the agreement is to establish a long-term collaborative framework to support research, development, standardization, and delivery of next-generation communication technologies. C-DOT brings deep expertise in network protocols, IoT, software applications, and quantum communications, while CSIR-NPL contributes unmatched capabilities in scientific measurement, standardization, and traceability to SI units, creating a powerful synergy.

    Collaborative research support is a cornerstone of this partnership, with both organizations agreeing to extend access to their research facilities, technical expertise, and administrative support for the successful execution of joint initiatives. They also intend to pursue additional grant funding and other resources to advance shared goals.

    In addition to joint R&D, the MoU promotes academic exchange and knowledge sharing through guest lectures, workshops, seminars, and collaborative teaching initiatives. Faculty, researchers, and students from both organizations will have opportunities to engage in cross-institutional learning and skill development. Furthermore, a strong emphasis is placed on intellectual property and data sharing, with a commitment to develop a joint framework defining ownership, usage rights, and publication guidelines to ensure equitable and transparent management of outcomes arising from the collaboration.

    Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO, C-DOT, highlighted the critical role of quantum communications in securing the nation’s future digital infrastructure. He stated, “Quantum communication represents the next frontier in safeguarding data and ensuring the integrity of critical information infrastructure. This partnership with CSIR-NPL is not just a strategic alignment of capabilities, but a commitment to national priorities of self-reliance and technological sovereignty. Through this collaboration, we aim to harness the complementary strengths of both institutions to accelerate the development of indigenous solutions that are globally competitive and future-ready.”

    Prof. Venugopal Achanta, Director, CSIR-NPL, conveyed his appreciation for the collaboration with C-DOT, stating that the partnership holds significant promise in elevating India’s global standing in the field of quantum secure communication technologies. Echoing on the statement of Dr. Upadhyay, he stressed on the need for joint activities to strengthen the quality infrastructure in the country. This will boost the Government’s initiatives like “Make India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat”.

    The agreement was signed during a formal ceremony attended by Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO, C-DOT, Ms. Shikha Srivastava, EVP, C-DOT, along with Prof. Venugopal Achanta, Director, Dr. S. R. Dhakate, Chief Scientist, Dr. Poonam Arora, Senior Principal Scientist, and Dr. Paramita Guha, Senior Scientist, from CSIR-NPL and other senior officials from C-DOT.

    This partnership stands as a testament to the nation’s growing emphasis on self-reliance in high-tech research and development. By combining C-DOT’s telecom innovation with CSIR-NPL’s foundational scientific leadership, this MoU paves the way for India to become a global leader in secure, scalable, and standardized communication technologies for the future.

    Dr. Upadhyay, CEO, C-DOT and Prof. Venugopal Achanta from NPL along with other officials from C-DOT & NPL present at the MOU signing ceremony.

    *****

    SAMRAT

    (Release ID: 2127568) Visitor Counter : 7

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy Launch Website and Stakeholders’ Portal to Strengthen Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Ecosystem

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 5:56PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Coal and Mines,Shri. G Kishan Reddy today launched a dedicated Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Website and Stakeholders’ Portal – https://nfmrecycling.jnarddc.gov.in – in the presence of the Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey and senior officials from the Ministry of Mines and JNARDDC. The initiative aims to promote a structured, transparent, and sustainable recycling ecosystem in India.

    Developed under the implementation guidelines of the National Non-Ferrous Metal Scrap Recycling Framework, the platform is designed to bring together key stakeholders, improve data visibility, and support evidence-based policymaking in the recycling of aluminium, copper, lead, zinc, and critical elements.

    Speaking at the launch, Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy said, “India is committed to building a circular economy that optimally utilises its resources. This portal will not only provide real-time visibility into the recycling landscape but also empower all stakeholders to make informed decisions, bridge gaps, and unlock the full potential of our non-ferrous metal sector.”

    The Minister of State Shri Satish Chandra Dubey lauded the initiative, stating that “this portal is a much-needed step in strengthening the recycling value chain and enhancing industry participation through transparency and data-driven policy support.”

    The website will act as a national hub for information dissemination, awareness generation, and engagement with recyclers, dismantlers, aggregators, industry associations, and research institutions. It highlights government initiatives, provides updates on stakeholder meetings and policy developments, and offers access to national statistics, standards, and infrastructure-related achievements.

    The integrated portal also enables registration of industry participants and collection of crucial data on raw material consumption, recycling capacity, technology usage, and workforce trends—supporting future interventions in R&D, infrastructure development, and skill enhancement.

    Key Features Include:

    • National registry for dismantlers, recyclers, traders, and collection centres
    • Tools to track raw material flows, product types, technology adoption, and workforce data
    • Performance benchmarking mechanisms
    • Identification of regional and sectoral infrastructure and skill gaps
    • Support for development of standards, certification systems, and awareness campaigns

    This initiative marks a major step toward strengthening India’s non-ferrous metal recycling ecosystem and aligns with the national vision of circular economy, sustainability, and resource efficiency.

    ****

    Shuhaib T

    (Release ID: 2127564) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, invites suggestions from experts/public on Draft Framework of ‘India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy by 25th June 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, invites suggestions from experts/public on Draft Framework of ‘India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy by 25th June 2025

    India’s climate finance taxonomy will facilitate greater resource flow to climate-friendly technologies and activities, enabling India to achieve the vision of being Net Zero by 2070 while ensuring long-term access to reliable and affordable energy

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 5:53PM by PIB Delhi

    In pursuance of the Union Budget 2024-25 announcement (Paragraph 104 of the budget speech) to develop India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy, the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, invites expert/public comments (format below) on the Draft framework. (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS — DRAFT FRAMEWORK OF INDIA’S CLIMATE FINANCE TAXONOMY)

    The Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs announced in the Union Budget 2025-26:

    “We will develop a taxonomy for climate finance for enhancing the availability of capital for climate adaptation and mitigation. This will support achievement of the country’s climate commitments and green transition”

    A Draft Framework of the Climate Finance Taxonomy has been developed pursuant to this announcement. This framework outlines the approach, objectives, and principles that will guide the taxonomy. It also details the methodology for classifying activities, projects, and measures that contribute to India’s climate commitments, while also taking into account goals associated with achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    The draft framework will be the basis for developing sectoral annexures. The sectoral annexes will outline the measures, activities, and projects considered climate-supportive, and those identified for promoting the transition.

    India’s climate finance taxonomy aims to facilitate greater resource flow to climate-friendly technologies and activities, enabling the country to achieve the vision of being Net Zero by 2070 while also ensuring long-term access to reliable and affordable energy. The Climate Finance Taxonomy will serve as a tool to identify activities consistent with a country’s climate action goals and transition pathway.

    Comments may be emailed to aditi.pathak[at]gov[dot]in by 25th June 2025 with the Subject “Comments on the Draft Framework for the Taxonomy”.

    The comments received through public consultation will be duly considered and examined, following which the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, will release the Framework of India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy.

    Format in which the information/comments may be provided:

    Name of organisation/person:

     

    Contact details:

     

    Category/Description of person giving comments:

    S. No.

    Para / Sub Para no

    Comments

    Rationale

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    ****

    NB/KMN

    (Release ID: 2127562) Visitor Counter : 78

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Through Operation Sindoor, India used its ‘Right to Respond’ to the attack on its soil: Raksha Mantri

    Source: Government of India

    Through Operation Sindoor, India used its ‘Right to Respond’ to the attack on its soil: Raksha Mantri

    “Armed Forces scripted history by acting with precision, precaution and compassion to destroy terror camps in Pakistan & PoK”

    Shri Rajnath Singh virtually dedicates 50 infrastructure projects of BRO to the nation

    The projects in eight border States/UTs, constructed at a total cost of Rs 1,879 crore, to enhance connectivity, strengthen national security & promote economic prosperity

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 5:50PM by PIB Delhi

    “Through Operation Sindoor, India has used its ‘Right to Respond’ to the attack on its soil, and the Armed Forces scripted history by acting with precision, precaution & compassion to destroy the camps used to train terrorists in Pakistan and PoK,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while addressing the 66thRaising Day event of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt on May 07, 2025. Raksha Mantri asserted that, as per the plan, the targets were destroyed and no civilian population was harmed. He commended the Armed Forces by giving a befitting reply under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

    “The whole world has witnessed what our Armed Forces have done today. The action was carried out very thoughtfully and in a measured manner. It was limited only to the camps and other infrastructure used for training terrorists, with the aim of breaking their morale. I congratulate the Armed Forces on behalf of the whole country. I also congratulate Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for providing complete support to the forces,” added Shri Rajnath Singh.

    The event also witnessed the virtual dedication of 50 strategically-significant infrastructure projects of BRO – 30 bridges, 17 roads and three other works – to the nation by Raksha Mantri. These projects, constructed at a total cost of Rs 1,879 crore, are spread across six border States and two Union Territories – Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Mizoram, West Bengal & Rajasthan – reinforcing India’s security, connectivity and development in remote regions. In the last two years alone, BRO has completed a record 161 infrastructure projects worth Rs 5,600 crore, including 111 projects last year.  In the last four years, BRO has completed 456 infrastructure projects with a total expenditure of Rs 13,743 crore.

    Shri Rajnath Singh exuded confidence that the projects e-inaugurated today will enhance connectivity, strengthen national security and promote economic prosperity of all these regions. “These projects will enhance defence preparedness and boost transportation, tourism & economic activity in these areas. These are not just infrastructure assets; they are pathways to a brighter future,” he added.

    Underlining the strategic importance of BRO’s work, Raksha Mantri stated that modern defence capability depends not just on weaponry but also on the infrastructure that supports it. “You can have the fastest tank or the most advanced aircraft, but if they can’t reach where they are needed on time, they serve no purpose. BRO plays a critical role in making sure our military is always ready and well-positioned,” he said, commending BRO Karmayogis who work behind the scenes and contribute to national security.

    Shri Rajnath Singh emphasised on the need to build new generation infrastructure for the Armed Forces in view of the current geopolitical scenario. BRO must ensure that the preparations are at war-level, he said.

    Raksha Mantri reiterated the Government’s commitment to ensure border area development, making special mention of Sela Tunnel which has become a symbol of this resolve to enhance connectivity in strategically-important areas. He highlighted the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to revitalise border villages, stating that initiatives like the Vibrant Villages Programme under which the Government is increasing connectivity by building about 35 kilometers of roads every day.

    In his address, Director General Border Roads (DGBR) Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan highlighted the growing national importance of BRO, stating that the organisation has emerged as the agency of choice for key central ministries for executing infrastructure projects in the most challenging terrains. He reaffirmed the BRO’s commitment to the well-being and dignity of its workforce, including GREF personnel and Casual Paid Labourers.

    Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minister of Minority Affairs Shri Kiran Rijiju, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, PP/DoPT, Atomic Energy and Space Dr Jitendra Singh, Chief of the Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials of Ministry of Defence were present at the venue.

    Himachal Pradesh Governor Shri Shiv Pratap Shukla, Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, Rajasthan Governor Shri Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu, Mizoram Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma, Jammu & Kashmir Lt Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, Lt Governor Ladakh Brig. (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) joined the event virtually.

    ******

    VK/Savvy/KB

    (Release ID: 2127561) Visitor Counter : 15

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST’s speech at Fondation de France Asia second edition of signature’s Night for Philanthropy (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the Fondation de France Asia second edition of signature’s Night for Philanthropy today (May 7):
     
    Deputy Consul General Hubin (Deputy Consul-General of France, Mr Benjamin Hubin), Mrs Axelle Davezac (Chief Executive Officer of the Fondation de France), Dr Andrew Yuen (Ambassador of the Fondation de France Asia), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good evening. I am most delighted to join you at tonight’s Night for Philanthropy, and my thanks to the Fondation de France Asia (Foundation) for your kind invitation so that I can share the joy and great spirit of this meaningful and exceptional event.
     
         Further to our celebration of the Foundation’s establishment in Hong Kong in July last year, I am sure we are all excited to gather again tonight to rejoice the stronger ties between France and Hong Kong, under the banner of the common good, while enjoying the wonderful arts, culture, food and wine on this beautiful occasion.
     
         Hong Kong itself has a deep tradition of philanthropy. About 10 600 charities in Hong Kong have contributed tremendously towards building and enhancing our social fabric, ranging from our schools, hospitals to elderly homes and welfare facilities. In financial year 2023-2024, approved charitable donations from business donors stood at about HK$4.8 billion; while for individual donors, approved charitable donations amounted to about HK$7.4 billion.
     
         It is our vision to develop Hong Kong into a philanthropic centre for global family offices and philanthropists to deploy charitable capital benefiting Hong Kong, the Mainland and the overseas. This vision is not just aspirational, but is indeed deeply rooted in Hong Kong’s unique strengths: our strategic location and unique proximity to China; robust legal framework and adherence to the rule of law; as well as a vibrant financial ecosystem with a strong banking system, extensive capital markets, and availability of professional services and talents. These altogether help make Hong Kong an ideal platform for philanthropic endeavours. But beyond these tangible assets, I believe Hong Kong’s true potential lies in the people here in the city – your compassion, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to building a better society.
     
         The Foundation, with its dedication to creating tailored projects for donors interested in supporting cross-border philanthropic initiatives, has certainly been a catalyst for positive change in Hong Kong. I am delighted to learn that the Foundation has supported five meaningful projects in the areas of education, heritage and music, four of which will be further explained later this evening. Furthermore, the Foundation has also been a strategic partner in Hong Kong’s philanthropic initiative Impact Link, or iLink in short, which is being championed by the Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy.
     
         The iLink is an excellent example of public-private philanthropy partnerships, whereby private foundations as strategic partners are brought together by the HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government in pursuit of the common good. It also serves as a platform for nurturing the next generation of philanthropists and fostering meaningful collaborations that drive social change.
     
         With the unfailing support from the Foundation and other strategic partners, capacity-building seminars and workshops under iLink have helped families initiate their first steps towards philanthropy and allowed them to acquire best practices from leading philanthropy organisations. Looking ahead, the iLink’s depository platform will be launched this year, which will provide a dedicated platform for invited family philanthropists to discover scalable initiatives that address critical challenges in Hong Kong and beyond. Strategic partners, family partners and projects nominated, including those nominated by the Foundation, will be displayed on the platform. We would continue to count on the thought leadership of the Foundation in promoting the exceptional qualities of Hong Kong in supporting philanthropic causes.
     
         In closing, may I commend Fondation de France Asia again for your contribution to Hong Kong. I wish the Foundation enormous success in all its endeavours, whether in Hong Kong, Asia or other parts of the world. For everyone here, may I wish you good health and joyful donation. Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Highlights of Telecom Subscription Data as on 31st March, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAY 2025 4:41PM by PIB Delhi

    Particulars

    Wireless

    Wireline

    Total

    (Wireless+

    Wireline)

    Broadband Subscribers (Million)

    902.74*

    41.39

    944.12

    Urban Telephone Subscribers (Million)

    632.57*

    33.54

    666.11

        Net Addition in March, 2025 (Million)

    -1.64

    -0.39

    -2.03

         Monthly Growth Rate

    -0.26%

    -1.15%

    -0.30%

    Rural Telephone Subscribers (Million)

    531.18*

    3.50

    534.69

        Net Addition in March, 2025 (Million)

    4.86

    0.52

    5.38

         Monthly Growth Rate

    0.92%

    17.59%

    1.02%

    Total Telephone Subscribers (Million)

    1163.76*

    37.04

    1200.80

       Net Addition in March, 2025 (Million)

    3.21

    0.13

    3.35

         Monthly Growth Rate

    0.28%

    0.37%

    0.28%

    Overall Tele-density@(%)

    82.42%

    2.62%

    85.04%

         Urban Tele-density@(%)

    124.83%

    6.62%

    131.45%

         Rural Tele-density@(%)

    58.67%

    0.39%

    59.06%

    Share of Urban Subscribers

    54.36%

    90.55%

    55.47%

    Share of Rural Subscribers

    45.64%

    9.45%

    44.53%

     

    • In the month of March 2025, 13.54 million subscribers submitted their requests for Mobile Number Portability (MNP). With this, the cumulative MNP requests increased from 1105.39 million at the end of February-25 to 1118.94 million at the end of March-25, since implementation of MNP.
    • Number of active wireless (Mobile) subscribers (on the date of peak VLR#) in March 2025 was 1074.21 million.

    Note:

    1. *   Wireless includes 5G FWA subscription also. 
    2. @ Based on the projection of population from the ‘Report of the Technical Group on Population Projections for India and States 2011 – 2036’.   
    3. # VLR is acronym of Visitor Location Register. The dates of peak VLR for various TSPs are different in different service areas.
    4. The information in this Press Release is based on the data provided by the Service Providers.
    1. Broadband Subscribers
    • As per the information received from 1206 operators in March 2025, in comparison to 1189 operators in February 2025, the total Broadband Subscribers increased from 944.04 million at the end of February-25 to 944.12 million at the end of March-25 with a monthly growth rate of 0.009%. Segment-wise broadband subscribers and their monthly growth rates are as below: –

    Segment–wise Broadband Subscribers and Monthly Growth Rate in the month of March, 2025

    Segment

    Subscription

    Subscribers

    (in million)

    % Change

    Feb-25

    Mar-25

    Wired subscribers

    Fixed (wired) Broadband

    (DSL, FTTx, Ethernet/LAN, Cable Modem, ILL)

    41.20

    41.39

    0.44%

    Wireless Subscribers

    Fixed Wireless Broadband

    (FWA-5G, Wi-Fi, Wi-Max, Radio, Satellite)

    4.89

    4.89

    0.16%

    Mobile Broadband

    (Handset/Dongle based)

    897.95

    897.84

    -0.01%

    Total Broadband Subscribers

    944.04

    944.12*

    0.009%

     

      * This report is prepared considering the last reported (Nov 2024) internet subscription data submitted by M/s Reliance Jio Infocom Ltd. and M/s Bharti Airtel Ltd., as they did not submit the requisite data in the prescribed format for Dec-2024 and Jan, Feb & Mar-2025.

    As on 31st March 2025, top five Broadband

    (Wired + Wireless) Service providers

    S.N.

    Name of the Service Provider

    Subscriber base

    (In million)
    1.  

    Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd

    476.58*
    1.  

    Bharti Airtel Ltd.

    289.31*
    1.  

    Vodafone Idea Ltd.

    126.41
    1.  

    Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd.

    34.57
    1.  

    Atria Convergence Technologies Limited

    2.29

    Market Share of Top Five Broadband (Wired+Wireless)

    98.41%

    *As per reported data of Nov-24

    • The graphical representation of the service provider-wise market share of broadband services is given below: –

    Service Provider-wise Market Share of Broadband

    (wired + wireless) Services as on 31st March, 2025

    As on 31st March, 2025, Top Five Fixed (Wired) Broadband Service providers

    S.N.

    Name of the Service Provider

    Subscriber base

    (In million)
    1.  

    Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd

    11.48*
    1.  

    Bharti Airtel Ltd

    8.55*
    1.  

    Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd

    4.34
    1.  

    Atria Convergence Technologies Limited

    2.29
    1.  

    Kerala Vision Broadband Ltd

    1.31

    Market Share of Top Five Fixed (Wired) Broadband Service Providers

    67.57%

    *As per reported data of Nov-24

    As on 31st March, 2025, top five Wireless (Fixed wireless & mobile) Broadband Service providers

    S.N.

    Name of the Service Provider

    Subscriber base

    (In million)
    1.  

    Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd

    465.10*
    1.  

    Bharti Airtel Ltd

    280.76*
    1.  

    Vodafone Idea Ltd

    126.40
    1.  

    Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd

    30.23
    1.  

    IBus Virtual Network Services Private Limited

    0.09

    Market Share of Top Five Wireless Broadband Service Providers

    99.98%

    *As per reported data of Nov-24

    1. Wireline Subscribers
    • Wireline subscribers increased from 36.91 million at the end of February-25 to 37.04 million at the end of March-25. Net increase in the wireline subscriber base was 0.13 million with a monthly rate of growth 0.37%.
    • The Overall wireline Tele-density in India remained same i.e. 2.62% at the end of March-25 which was at the of February-25. Urban and Rural Wireline Tele-density were 6.62% and 0.39%, respectively, during the same period.  The share of urban and rural subscribers in total wireline subscribers were 90.55% and 9.45% respectively at the end of March, 2025.
    • BSNL, MTNL, and APSFL, the three PSUs access service providers, held 27.87% of the wireline market share as on 31st March 2025. Detailed statistics of the Wireline subscriber base are available at Annexure-I.

     

    Access Service Provider-wise Market Share of wireline Subscribers

    as on 31st March, 2025

    Access Service Provider-wise Net Addition/Decline in wireline Subscribers during the month of March, 2025

    1. Wireless (Mobile+5G FWA) Subscribers

     

    • Total wireless (mobile+5G-FWA) subscribers increased from 1,160.33 million at the end of February-25 to 1,163.76 million at the end of March-25, thereby registering a monthly growth rate of 0.28%. Total Wireless subscription in urban areas decreased from 634 million on February-25 to 632.57 million on March-25 and the subscription in rural areas also increased from 526.33 million to 531.18 million during the same period. The monthly growth rate of urban and rural wireless subscriptions was  -0.26% and 0.92%, respectively.
    • The Wireless Tele-density in India increased from 82.23% at the end of Feb-25 to 82.42% at the end of Mar-25. The Urban Wireless Tele-density decreased from 125.30% at the end of Feb-25 to 124.83% at the end of Mar-25 however, the Rural Tele-density increased from 58.16% to 58.67% during the same period. The share of urban and rural wireless subscribers in the total number of wireless subscribers was 54.36% and 45.64%, respectively, at the end of March-25.
    • The details of Wireless (mobile) and Wireless (5G FWA) subscribers are detailed below: –

     

    (A) Wireless (Mobile) subscriber

     

    • Total wireless (Mobile) subscribers increased from 1,154.05 million at the end of Feb-25 to 1,156.99 million at the end of Mar-25, thereby registering a monthly growth rate of 0.25%. Wireless (Mobile) subscription in urban areas increased from 627.94 million at the end of Feb-25 to 628.31 million at the end of Mar-25 and wireless (Mobile) subscription in rural areas also increased from 526.11 million to 528.68 million during the same period. Monthly growth rate of urban and rural wireless (Mobile) subscription was 0.06% and 0.49% respectively.

             

    • The Wireless (Mobile) Tele-density in India increased from 81.79% at the end of Feb-25 to 81.94% at the end of Mar-25. The Urban Wireless Tele-density decreased from 124.10% at the end of Feb-25 to 123.99% at the end of Mar-25 however Rural Tele-density increased from 58.13% to 58.40% during the same period. The share of urban and rural wireless (Mobile) subscribers in total number of wireless (Mobile) subscribers was 54.31% and 45.69% respectively at the end of March 2025. Detailed statistics of wireless (Mobile) subscriber base is available at Annexure-II.

    •      As on 31st March 2025, the private access service providers held 92.04% market share of the wireless (Mobile) subscribers, whereas BSNL and MTNL, the two PSU access service providers, had a market share of only 7.96%.

    • The graphical representation of access service provider-wise market share and net additions in wireless (Mobile) subscriber base are given below: –

    Access Service Provider-wise Market Shares in term of Wireless (Mobile) Subscribers as on 31st March, 2025

    Net Addition/ Decline in Wireless (Mobile) Subscribers of Access Service Providers in the month of March, 2025

    Growth in Wireless (Mobile) Subscribers

    Major Access Service Provider-wise Monthly Growth/ Decline Rate of Wireless Subscribers in the month of March, 2025

     

    Service Area-wise Monthly Growth/ Decline Rate of Wireless (Mobile) Subscribers in the month of March, 2025

    • Except Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Kolkata all other service areas have showed growth in their wireless (Mobile) subscribers during the month of March-25.

     (B) Wireless (5G FWA) subscribers

     

    • Total wireless (5G FWA) subscribers increased from 6.27 million at the end of February-25 to 6.77 million at the end of March-25 with subscriptions in urban and rural areas of 4.26 million and 2.51 million, respectively

     

    • The share of urban and rural wireless (5G FWA) subscribers in the total number of wireless (5G FWA) subscribers was 62.97% and 37.03%, respectively at the end of March, 2025. Detailed statistics of the wireless (5G FWA) subscriber base is available at Annexure-V
    1. M2M cellular mobile connections

                              Number of M2M cellular mobile connections increased from 64.71 million at the end of February-25 to 66.54 million at the end of March-25.

     

         Bharti Airtel Limited has the highest number of M2M cellular mobile connections 34.82 million with a market share of 52.32% followed by Vodafone idea Limited, Reliance Jio Infocom Limited and BSNL with market share of 24.39%, 18.25% and 5.04% respectively.

    1.  Total Telephone Subscribers
    • The number of total telephone subscribers in India increased from 1,197.23 million at the end of Feb-25 to 1,200.80 million at the end of Mar-25, thereby showing a monthly growth rate of 0.28%. Urban telephone subscription decreased from 667.93 million at the end of Feb-25 to 666.11 million at the end of Mar-25 however the rural subscription increased from 529.31 million to 534.69 million during the same period. The monthly growth rates of urban and rural telephone subscription were -0.30% and   1.02% respectively during the month of March, 2025.  
    • The overall Tele-density in India increased from 84.85% at the end of Feb-25 to 85.04% at the end of Mar-25. The Urban Tele-density decreased from 132.01% at the end of Feb-25 to 131.45% at the end of Mar-25 however Rural Tele-density increased from 58.48% to 59.06% during the same period. The share of urban and rural subscribers in total number of telephone subscribers at the end of March-25 were 55.47% and 44.53% respectively.

    Overall Tele-density (LSA Wise) – As on 31st March, 2025

    • As may be seen in the above chart, eight LSA have less tele-density than the all-India average tele-density at the end of March-25. Delhi service area has maximum tele-density of 275.79% and the Bihar service area has minimum tele-density of 57.23% at the end of March-25.

    Notes: –

    1. Population data/projections are available state wise only.
    2. Tele-density figures are derived from the telephone subscriber data provided by the access service providers and the projection of population from the “Report of the Technical Group on Population Projections for India and States 2011 – 2036.
    3. Telephone subscriber data for Delhi, includes, apart from the data for the State of Delhi, wireless subscriber data for the areas served by the local exchanges of Ghaziabad & Noida (in Uttar Pradesh) and Gurgaon & Faridabad (in Haryana).
    4. Data/information for West Bengal includes Kolkata, Maharashtra includes Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh includes UPE & UPW service area(s).
    5. Data/information for Andhra Pradesh includes Telengana, Madhya Pradesh includes Chhatishgarh, Bihar includes Jharkhand, Maharashtra includes Goa, Uttar Pradesh includes Uttarakhand, West Bengal includes Sikkim and North-East includes Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland & Tripura States.

     

    1. Category-wise Growth in subscriber base

    Circle Category-wise Net Additions in Telephone Subscribers in the month March, 2025          

    Circle

    Category

    Net additions in the month of March, 2025

    Telephone Subscriber base as on 31st March, 2025

    Wireline segment

    Wireless* segment

    Wireline segment

    Wireless* segment

    Circle A

    61442

    161244

    14568246

    386538167

    Circle B

    63707

    1110993

    10199907

    471472982

    Circle C

    17156

    1470149

    2946671

    192267604

    Metro

    -7369

    469123

    9325910

    113476417

    All India

    134936

    3211509

    37040734

    1163755170

              *Wireless includes 5G FWA subscription also

    Circle Category-wise monthly and yearly Growth Rates in Telephone Subscribers in the month of March, 2025

    Circle Category

    Monthly growth rate (%)

    (February-25 to March-25)

    Yearly growth rate (%)

    (March-24 to March-25)

    Wireline Segment

    Wireless* Segment

    Wireline Segment

    Wireless* Segment

    Circle A

    0.42%

    0.04%

    10.69%

    -0.48%

    Circle B

    0.63%

    0.24%

    13.09%

    -0.41%

    Circle C

    0.59%

    0.77%

    11.88%

    1.74%

    Metro

    -0.08%

    0.42%

    3.88%

    -1.09%

    All India

    0.37%

    0.28%

    9.62%

    -0.15%

    *Wireless includes 5G FWA subscription also

    Note:  Circle Category-Metro includes Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. Data for Chennai has been included in Circle Category-A, as part of TamilNadu.

     

    • As can be seen in the above tables, in the wireless segment, during the month of March 2025, on monthly basis, all circles have registered  growth rate in their subscriber base. On a yearly basis, except Circle ‘C’, all other circles have registered a decline in their subscriber base.
    •  In the Wireline segment, during the month of March 2025, on monthly basis, except Circle ‘Metro’, all other circles have registered growth in their subscriber base. On yearly basis, all circles have registered growth in their subscriber.
    1.  Active Wireless (Mobile) Subscribers (VLR Data)
    • Out of the total 1156.99 million wireless subscribers, 1074.21 million wireless subscribers were active on the date of peak VLR in the month of March-25. The proportion of active wireless subscribers was approximately 92.85% of the total wireless subscriber base.
    • The detailed statistics on proportion of active wireless subscribers (also referred to as VLR subscribers) on the date of peak VLR in the month of March-25 is available at Annexure-III and the methodology used for reporting VLR subscribers is available at Annexure-IV.

    Access Service Provider-wise Percentage of VLR Subscribers

    in the month of March, 2025 

    • Reliance Communication has the maximum proportion 100% of its active wireless subscribers (VLR) as against its total wireless subscribers (HLR) on the date of peak VLR in the month of March-25 and MTNL has the minimum proportion of VLR 48.07% of its HLR during the same period.

    Service Area wise percentage of VLR Subscribers

    in the month of March, 2025

    1. Mobile Number Portability (MNP)
    • Intra-service area Mobile number portability (MNP) was implemented first in Haryana service area w.e.f. 25.11.2010 and in the rest of the country w.e.f. 20.01.2011. Inter-Service Area MNP has been implemented in the country w.e.f. 03.07.2015. Now, the wireless telephone subscribers can retain their mobile numbers when they relocate from one service area to another.
    • During the month of March-25, a total of 13.54 million requests were received for MNP.  Out of total 13.54 million, new requests received from Zone-I & Zone-II were 7.51 million and 6.03 million respectively. The cumulative MNP requests increased from 1105.39 million at the end of February-25 to 1118.94 million at the end of March-25, since the implementation of MNP. 
    • In MNP Zone-I (Northern and Western India), the highest number of requests till date have been received in Uttar Pradesh-East (about 111.89 million) followed by Maharashtra (about 90.87 million) service area.
    • In MNP Zone-II (Southern and Eastern India), the highest number of requests till date have been received in Madhya Pradesh (about 88.41 million) followed by Karnataka (about 73.53 million).

    Service Area Wise MNP Status

    Zone-I

    Zone–II

    Service Area

    Number of Porting Requests (in Million)

    Service Area

    Number of Porting Requests

    (in Million)

    Feb-25

    Mar-25

    Feb-25

    Mar-25

    Delhi

    52.65

    53.25

    Andhra Pradesh

    72.06

    72.69

    Gujarat

    75.20

    76.11

    Assam

    8.09

    8.20

    Haryana

    34.79

    35.19

    Bihar

    63.84

    64.93

    Himachal Pradesh

    4.64

    4.68

    Karnataka

    72.96

    73.53

    Jammu & Kashmir

    3.17

    3.23

    Kerala

    26.11

    26.34

    Maharashtra

    89.94

    90.87

    Kolkata

    20.00

    20.17

    Mumbai

    35.98

    36.23

    Madhya Pradesh

    87.16

    88.41

    Punjab

    36.01

    36.37

    North East

    2.52

    2.55

    Rajasthan

    73.85

    74.56

    Odisha

    19.26

    19.48

    U.P.(East)

    110.02

    111.89

    Tamil Nadu

    68.67

    69.33

    U.P.(West)

    82.68

    84.03

    West Bengal

    65.79

    66.88

    Total

    598.92

    606.43

    Total

    506.48

    512.51

    Total (Zone-I + Zone-II)

     

    		  

    1,105.39

    1,118.94

    Net Addition (March, 2025)

                                              13.54 million

     

    Contact details in case of any clarification: –

    Shri Vijay Kumar, Advisor (F&EA),

    Telecom Regulatory Authority of India                                                                 

    World Trade Centre, Tower-F,

    Nauroji Nagar, New Delhi – 110029

    Ph: 011-20907773                                                                       (D. Manoj)

    E-mail: advfea1@trai.gov.in                                                  Pr. Advisor (F&EA)

     

                            Note: Peak VLR figures in some circles of some of the service providers are more than their HLR  figures due to a large number of inroamers. 

    Annexure IV

    VLR Subscribers in the Wireless Segment

     

    Home Location Register (HLR) is a central database that contains details of each mobile phone subscriber that is authorized to use the GSM core network. The HLRs store details of every SIM card issued by the service provider. Each SIM has a unique identifier called an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), which is the primary key to each HLR record. The HLR data is stored for as long as a subscriber remains with the service provider. HLR also manages the mobility of subscribers by means of updating their position in administrative areas. It sends the subscriber data to a Visitor Location Register (VLR).

    Subscriber numbers reported by the service providers is the difference between the numbers of IMSI registered in service provider’s HLR and sum of other figures as given below: –

     

    1

    Total IMSI’s in HLR (A)

    2

    Less: (B = a + b + c + d + e)

    a.

    Test/Service Cards

    b.

    Employees

    c.

    Stock in hand/in Distribution Channels (Active Card)

    d.

    Subscriber Retention period expired

    e.

    Service suspended pending disconnection

    3

    Subscribers Base (A-B)

    Visitor Location Register (VLR) is a temporary database of the subscribers who have roamed into the particular area, which it serves. Each base station in the network is served by exactly one VLR; hence a subscriber cannot be present in more than one VLR at a time.

    If subscriber is in active stage i.e. he is able to send/receive calls/SMSs he is available both in HLR and VLR. However, it may be possible that the subscriber is registered in HLR but not in VLR due to the reason that he is either switched-off or moved out of coverage area, not reachable etc. In such circumstances he will be available in HLR but not in VLR. This causes difference between subscriber number reported by the service providers based on HLR and numbers available in VLR.

    The VLR subscriber data calculated here is based on active subscribers in VLR on the date of Peak subscriber number in VLR of the particular month for which the data is being collected. This data is to be taken from the switches having the purge time of not more than 72 hours.

    ***

    Samrat

    (Release ID: 2127534) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government welcomes passage of Stamp Duty (Amendment) Bill 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government welcomes passage of Stamp Duty (Amendment) Bill 2025 
    A Government spokesperson said, “Based on property transaction data of 2024-25, we estimate that the measure will benefit approximately 15 per cent of property transactions, with government revenue reduced by about $400 million annually.”
     
    The legislation as passed will be gazetted on May 16. The relevant adjustment, which took effect at 11am on February 26 this year under the Public Revenue Protection (Stamp Duty) Order 2025 gazetted on the same day, applies to instruments executed on or after February 26, 2025.
    Issued at HKT 19:22

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ2: Development of Northern Metropolis

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ2: Development of Northern Metropolis 
    Question:
     
    There are views pointing out that the Northern Metropolis and the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (Hetao Zone) are the key engines of Hong Kong’s innovation and technology development, and that the Government should expedite the development and promote the stationing of enterprises in the area. In addition, the Government should enhance public participation in its fundraising through bond issuance for promoting the related infrastructure projects, so that the public can share the dividends of development. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it will consider setting up a “Northern Metropolis Online Office” first to provide consolidated planning and land information as well as the latest progress through an online platform, with a view to inviting enterprises interested in stationing there to register in Hong Kong in advance, and to study the provision of support or policy incentives for the registered enterprises, such as the provision of virtual showrooms, online negotiation and pre-registration services, so that enterprises can make early preparations for seamless integration with the physical facilities upon their completion;
     
    (2) in order to attract enterprises as a priority to establish a presence in the Northern Metropolis and Hetao Zone, whether it will introduce targeted support measures, such as the provision of transitional office space and special recruitment programmes for talents; and
     
    (3) whether it will conduct a study on allowing members of the public to have priority in subscribing to the relevant government bonds for the Northern Metropolis projects with their Mandatory Provident Fund contributions, so that members of the public can share the dividends of the development?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    The Northern Metropolis (NM) is crucial to the social and economic development of Hong Kong, providing impetus for the growth of innovation and technology as well as other industries, enabling more in-depth participation in the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, while creating quality job opportunities and living environment for our people. Since 2019, works related to multiple New Development Areas (NDAs) in the NM have been rolled out progressively and are advancing at full steam. It is anticipated that the NM will produce considerable “spade-ready sites” and floor spaces for various industries in the coming years. Additionally, the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (Hetao Hong Kong Park) is set to commence operation this year.
     
    In consultation with relevant departments, our reply to the question raised by Dr the Hon Starry Lee is as follows:
     
    (1) The NM project is a cross-bureaux undertaking. The Steering Committee on the Northern Metropolis led by the Chief Executive oversees the NM development. The Northern Metropolis Co-ordination Office (NMCO) under the Development Bureau (DEVB) has assumed an overall championing and co-ordinating role in the development of the NM, including joining hands with other bureaux, the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES) and Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) in promoting the NM and facilitating the development of various industries therein. 
     
    In particular, OASES is tasked with attracting high-potential and representative strategic enterprises from around the globe, and has announced four batches of 84 strategic enterprises that have set up or expanded their businesses in Hong Kong, many of which have also expressed interest in establishing their presence in the NM. InvestHK, on the other hand, is committed to assisting Mainland and overseas enterprises to set up and expand in Hong Kong by providing one-stop support services. Last year, InvestHK assisted over 500 enterprises to set up or expand in Hong Kong, including those which have expressed interest in the land for industries in the NM. The NMCO focuses on presenting the latest progress of various planning and engineering projects in the NM to various sectors home and abroad, and also organises large-scale investment promotion activities to encourage local, Mainland and overseas enterprises to support and participate in the development of the NM. Moreover, the three offices mentioned above, namely OASES, InvestHK and the NMCO, will further collaborate to follow up on the needs of those enterprises interested in setting up businesses in the NM, such as forming a dedicated team consisting of representatives from all three parties.
     
    On information dissemination, OASES and the DEVB have set up online media such as dedicated webpages and social media platforms to introduce the support services of OASES and promote Hong Kong’s advantages, as well as to disseminate the latest information on various development projects in the NM respectively. InvestHK has also promoted the latest developments in the NM and publicised the NM’s investment opportunities through its global network. In addition, the Civil Engineering and Development Department has established Community Liaison Centres in some of the NDAs to introduce the latest information on these areas. The DEVB is also preparing for the launch of a booklet on attracting enterprises and investments in the NM, which will holistically provide information on the overall planning, priority industries, and engineering works/tenders of the NM.
     
    (2) Considering the diverse backgrounds of enterprises interested in coming to Hong Kong, the Government’s efforts on attracting businesses and investment focus on understanding and suitably catering to the different needs of individual enterprises. During the process of assisting Mainland and overseas enterprises to establishing their presence in Hong Kong, OASES and InvestHK will help them identify premises for operation, among which the NM is one of the recommended highlights. They will also help those enterprises, at the initial preparatory stage and in need to establish their presence, to move into other locations in Hong Kong so that fundamental work such as research and development can be commenced to lay the groundwork for their future presence in the NM.
     
    As for the Hetao Hong Kong Park, the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited (HSITPL) is pressing ahead with the work on attracting tenants. The first batch of tenants is expected to move in starting from the second half of this year, and so far the HSITPL has entered into a more intensive phase of negotiations with around 30 enterprises.
     
    (3) All proceeds raised from the Government green bonds and infrastructure bonds are credited to the Capital Works Reserve Fund, with a view to supporting various infrastructure works including those in the NM. The Financial Secretary proposed in the Budgets in recent years that the Government planned to earmark a certain proportion of the future issuances of these two bonds for priority investment by Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) funds. To this end, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority have established a mechanism, which was first applied to the institutional green bonds issued under the Government Green Bond Programme in June 2023. A similar mechanism will continue to apply to the institutional bonds issued under the Government Sustainable Bond Programme (formerly known as the Government Green Bond Programme (Note)) and the Infrastructure Bond Programme, aiming to allow MPF scheme members to participate in promoting infrastructure development, including those in the NM, through MPF funds, while obtaining relatively stable investment returns at a low risk and sharing the development outcomes.
     
    Note: The Government Green Bond Programme was renamed the Government Sustainable Bond Programme starting from May 10, 2024.
    Issued at HKT 19:21

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ12: Support for small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Maggie Chan and a written reply by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):
     
    Question:
     
         There are views that, as Hong Kong is the centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region and where the International Organization for Mediation is located, the development of the legal profession is crucial to enhancing Hong Kong’s business environment governed by the rule of law and giving full play to the unique advantages of Hong Kong’s common law. It is learnt that small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers in Hong Kong face many challenges in terms of market competition, resource allocation and professional development. Regarding the support for small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it has currently formulated specific policies or measures to assist the professional development of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (2) whether it has assessed the effectiveness of the policies or measures mentioned in (1); if it has assessed, whether there are statistics or examples showing that such policies or measures have effectively enhanced the quality and competitiveness of the professional legal services provided by small and medium-sized law firms; and the number of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers that have benefited so far; if it has not assessed, of the reasons for that;
     
    (3) whether it has assessed the response of the legal profession to the policies or measures mentioned in (1); what specific measures will the Government implement in the future to further support the professional development and enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers; and
     
    (4) whether it has formulated key performance indicators for supporting the professional development and enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers; if so, of the specific details (including the indicators set); if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President, 
     
         In response to the enquiry raised by the Hon Maggie Chan, the consolidated reply is as follows:
     
         A self-regulatory regime is applied for Hong Kong’s legal profession. On the premise of fully respecting the self-regulatory regime of the legal profession, the Department of Justice (DoJ) has all along been implementing various initiatives and new policies to foster an environment conducive to the professional development of the legal sector and create opportunities for them. According to statistics from the Law Society of Hong Kong (Law Society), nearly 90 per cent of law firms in Hong Kong are sole proprietorships or consist of no more than five partners. In formulating and introducing policies, the DoJ will take into account the needs of small and medium-sized law firms.
     
         Over the years, the DoJ has devised various policies and/or measures to support the professional development of solicitors from small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers with details set out below:
     
    Understudy Programme (Civil/Prosecution Work)
     
         Launched in mid-2020, the programme aims to provide training opportunities for the less-experienced barristers and solicitors (i.e. with less than five years’ post call/admission experience) to handle civil and prosecution work of the Government in order to broaden their horizon, enrich them with valuable experience and improve their case management skills. The trainings include drafting of legal opinions, conducting legal research, observing lawyers in action in different levels of courts and various hearings, participating in hearing preparation works, acting as junior counsel to senior counsel or counsel or Government Counsel, and assisting in handling more complex cases conducted in the District Court or the Court of First Instance or magistracy cases with lengthy trials. As at March 31, 2025, a total of 297 solicitors and barristers with less than five years’ qualification participated in various civil and criminal works through the programme with satisfactory response. The DoJ has, from time to time, received expressions of interest from solicitors and barristers to participate in the programme, reflecting the continued support and participation from the sector. The DoJ will continue to review and select suitable work to provide more training opportunities to participating solicitors and barristers.
     
    Professional Exchange Programme
     
         The programme aims to facilitate the exchange of best practices between lawyers in the private sector and DoJ. Qualified private sector lawyers can apply through their law firms/chambers for attachment to DoJ; law firms/chambers interested in accepting exchange lawyers from DoJ can also contact DoJ.
     
         The feedback of participants on the programme has been positive. Participants considered that their attachment facilitated cross-fertilisation of knowledge and experience and the exchange of best practices.
     
         The programme was launched in September 2019. As of 2024-25, a total of 19 lawyers (eight lawyers in the private sector and 11 government counsel) have participated in the programme.
     
         The Professional Exchange Programme has been well-received by the legal sector since its launch. We will continue to maintain close communication with law firms/chambers to facilitate the formulation of suitable exchange arrangements; and will continue to review the implementation of the programme and make refinement in a timely manner.
     
    Secondment Programmes to Relevant International Organisations
     
         The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has, with the support of the Central Government, made standing secondment arrangements with the Hague Conference on Private International Law and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law, which are open to application by all qualified local legal professionals from the public and private sectors (irrespective of the size of the law firms they work in). Since the said secondment arrangements have been put in place, a total of six local barristers and solicitors from the private sector, who have worked in law firms of different sizes, have participated. The DoJ will continue to promote to the legal sector (including young legal professionals) the relevant secondment programmes.
     
    Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy
     
         Capitalising on Hong Kong’s bilingual common law system and the unique strengths and advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle, the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy was launched on November 8, 2024. The Academy will make the most of Hong Kong’s bilingual common law system (in English and Chinese), as well as the international status, regularly organise different practical legal courses, seminars and international exchange initiatives, so as to promote talent exchanges in the region and beyond, and provide foreign-related legal talent training for our country, and practical training for the local solicitors and barristers (including young legal professionals) for professional development.
     
         The capacity-building programmes that the Academy will organise include the “Mainland Civil and Commercial Legal Practice Training Course 2025” from June 13 to 14, 2025, which aims to enable the local legal industry to fully understand the latest developments in civil and commercial practice in the Mainland, the procedures and practical arrangements for handling relevant cases by the Mainland courts and arbitration institutions, and to promote cooperation between local and the Mainland legal industries, so as to provide more comprehensive services to clients; and a seminar on criminal prosecution for prosecutors from the country and Association of Southeast Asian Nations member states, and local solicitors and barristers in September 2025, etc.
     
         The Academy will design and organise short-term training programmes taking into account the practical needs of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers. By flexibly arranging the course content and format, the training programmes will address the diverse professional development needs of participants, thereby achieving more focused and effective training outcomes, and fostering the professional growth of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers.
     
    Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) Legal Professional Examination (GBA Examination)
     
         Since 2021, eligible Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners may provide legal services in the nine Mainland municipalities in the GBA on certain civil and commercial matters to which Mainland laws apply (including litigation and non-litigation matters), after passing the GBA Examination and having obtained the Lawyer’s License (GBA). In September 2023, the General Office of the State Council published the revised pilot measures for Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners to obtain Mainland practice qualifications and to practise law in the nine Mainland municipalities in the GBA (the revised pilot measures), which lowered the practice experience threshold for Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners to enroll in the GBA Examination from five years to three years. DoJ has worked closely with the Mainland authorities and continued to keep close contact with the two legal professional bodies as well as encouraging more Hong Kong legal practitioners to enroll in the GBA Examination.
     
         There are now Hong Kong legal practitioners who are GBA lawyers taking up court cases of the nine Mainland municipalities in the GBA and appearing in court as litigation representatives, as well as taking up GBA arbitration cases, with cases being duly completed. With the benefit of the lowered practice experience threshold, from 2024, more Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners, including young Hong Kong barristers and solicitors, would be eligible to enroll in the GBA Examination, thus obtaining dual qualification in the Mainland and Hong Kong, and be able to seize the unlimited opportunities brought by the developments in the GBA.
     
         The GBA Examination has been held four times. As at the end of March 2025, over 550 Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners have obtained the Lawyer’s License (GBA).
     
         Hong Kong legal practitioners have responded enthusiastically towards the GBA Examination. Before September 2023, there were some legal practitioners interested in practising in the nine Mainland municipalities but were unable to enroll in the GBA Examination due to the practice experience threshold. The revised pilot measures lowered the practice experience threshold for Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners to enroll in the GBA Examination, responded to the aspirations of young Hong Kong legal practitioners and encouraged them to participate in the construction of rule of law in the GBA.
     
    GBA Mediator Training Course of Hong Kong
     
         To promote the interface of the non-litigation dispute resolution services in the GBA and to enhance the understanding of Hong Kong mediators regarding the mediation systems in Guangdong and Macao, the DoJ held the GBA Mediator Training Course of Hong Kong on August 16, 2024. Since the number of registered participants far exceeded the maximum capacity of the event venue, the DoJ specially introduced online mode to accommodate more participants. More than 400 participants have attended the Course, including young lawyers from Hong Kong. Mediation experts from Guangdong and Macao were invited to share the respective mediation systems, culture and experience of Guangdong and Macao, as well as to explore the latest developments of cross-boundary disputes mediation in the GBA and the cultural difference and integration in mediation of the three places. The course discussed topics including the means and skills in handling cross-boundary disputes, enhancing Hong Kong lawyers’ understanding of handling cross-boundary disputes in the GBA. The DoJ will consider conducting further relevant courses as necessary in the future.
     
    The Deputy Secretary for Justice led delegations of young lawyers to visit GBA Mainland cities
     
         The Deputy Secretary for Justice led two delegations of young representatives from the legal sector to visit GBA Mainland cities, including Huizhou, Shenzhen and Foshan in September and November 2023. The visits helped young legal professionals and law students deepen their understanding of the legal systems of the GBA Mainland cities and that of the Mainland, further connect their career development with the overall national development and deepen their collaboration with the legal sector of other GBA cities, so as to jointly promote high-quality national development. Number of delegates of the two delegations exceeded 70 people, including young representatives of the Law Society and the Hong Kong Bar Association, young government counsel of the DoJ, and law students from the three law schools.
     
    Updating the Talent List
     
         The Government announced to update the Talent List to include “Legal Knowledge Engineers”. The new arrangement took effect on March 1, 2025 in response to the legal profession’s need for artificial intelligence. The introduction of “Legal Knowledge Engineers” helps improve the efficiency of legal professional services and promote high value-added development of Hong Kong’s economy and society.
     
         By developing artificial intelligence systems, “Legal Knowledge Engineers” act as a bridge between lawyers and other general programmers, developing artificial intelligence systems specifically for law firms. They can help law firms (including small and medium-sized law firms) improve work efficiency, for example, when conducting due diligence, the searching of key terms within huge volumes of documents can produce highly accurate responses within a short period of time.
     
    ROLE Stars Train-the-Leaders Programme (TTL Programme)
     
         Since the launching of the TTL Programme in November 2023, through collaboration with relevant organisations and stakeholders, three phases of courses have been developed. Young lawyers have been invited as speakers and facilitators. The DoJ enhances the law-abiding awareness of young people and the public in a holistic manner, and to increase the understanding of the rule of law principles and the legal system through the TTL Programme. Since its launch, the TTL Programme has attracted over 350 trainees, including 36 young lawyers as facilitators.
     
    DoJ i-Day
     
         The event was led by young in-house lawyers of the DoJ “DoJ Fellows” in August and September 2023, and there are plans to hold a similar open day in June 2025. The event provided young lawyers with an opportunity to meet young people who aspire to join the legal profession, and also allowed those who have not yet joined the legal sector to deepen their understanding of the legal field and the work of the DoJ. The event in 2023 attracted more than 330 trainee solicitors, trainee barristers, legal professionals, law-degree students and students from other degrees and the general public to participate.
     
         Given the nature of the work of the DoJ, the benefits of a measure or policy to society may not be entirely quantifiable, the DoJ does not possess the relevant key performance indicators on the above measures or policies in support of the professional development of solicitors from small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers. The Government will continue to introduce measures or policies at appropriate times and update existing ones from time to time to align them with the latest development of the profession.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –