NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hotel & Restaurant Federation gears up for country-wide International Day of Yoga 2025 observation

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 6:22PM by PIB Delhi

    The private sector taking leadership roles in public yoga activities, in pursuit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call to take the rewards of yoga to every corner of the country, is an unmissable trend in the countdown to the IDY this year.

    Aligning with this trend, the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Association of India (FHRAI) announced their early plans, with their members proudly taking up “Harit Yoga” activities. These include:

    1. Yoga Retreat on 22nd April 2025 – Atmantan Wellness Centre, Mulshi, Maharashtra. An immersive yoga retreat set in the serene Sahyadri hills, offering a deep connection with nature and the self.
    2. Campus event on 29th April 2025 – FHRAI Institute of Hospitality Management (FHRAI-IHM), Greater Noida . A vibrant campus event engaging future hospitality leaders in the principles of yoga and sustainability.
    3. Event on 17th May 2025 at JW Marriott, Bangalore. A flagship gathering in the heart of the city, celebrating wellness in urban life through a rich blend of yoga, dialogue, and community action.

    The Federation added in their announcement that these events are not just symbolic- they represent FHRAI’s steadfast commitment to supporting the Government of India’s vision of a healthier, greener, and more mindful society. Through these collaborative efforts, FHRAI aim to amplify the message of yoga as a lifestyle, deeply rooted in Indian tradition yet universally relevant in today’s world.

    Harit Yoga is one among the 10 Signature Activities being coordinated by the Ministry of Ayush in the run-up to IDY 2025, to mark the special occasion of the IDY observation completing 10 years. The project combines wellness and environmental awareness and seeks to use the medium of yoga to propagate the message of the conservation of the environment. Harit Yoga activities typically go beyond Yoga sessions, and participants will engage in eco-friendly activities like tree planting, beach clean-ups, and community-driven environmental efforts. It will also include educational campaigns covering critical topics like climate change and conservation, encouraging sustainable lifestyles. The last two weeks have seen the emergence of international participation in Harit Yoga, and it will inspire worldwide communities to join these environmentally conscious initiatives.

    FHRAI has made plans to conduct yoga events on a large scale in preparation for IDY-2025. As informed by Ms. Payal Swami, Assistant Secretary General of the Federation, FHRAI is proud to stand with the Government in the yoga movement and looks forward to making their IDY events inclusive and impactful.

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    MV/AKS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister hosts the U.S. Vice President and family

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister hosts the U.S. Vice President and family

    PM recalls his successful visit to Washington D.C. in January and his discussions with President Trump

    Following up on their meeting in February this year in Paris, PM and Vice President Vance reviewed progress in bilateral relations

    They welcome progress in the India-U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement and efforts towards enhancing cooperation in energy, defence, strategic technologies

    The two leaders exchange views on various regional and global issues of mutual interest

    PM extends best wishes to the Vice President and family for a pleasant stay

    PM conveys greetings to President Trump and looks forward to his visit to India later this year

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 8:50PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met with the Vice President of the United States of America, the Honorable J.D. Vance today, accompanied by the Second Lady Mrs. Usha Vance, their children, and senior members of the U.S. Administration. 

    Prime Minister fondly recalled his visit to Washington D.C. in January and his fruitful discussions with President Trump, which laid down the roadmap for close cooperation between India and the U.S., leveraging the strengths of Make America Great Again (MAGA) and Viksit Bharat 2047.

    Prime Minister and Vice President Vance reviewed and positively assessed the progress in various areas of bilateral cooperation. 

    They welcomed the significant progress in the negotiations for a mutually beneficial India-U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement focused on the welfare of the people of the two countries. Likewise, they noted continued efforts towards enhancing cooperation in energy, defence, strategic technologies and other areas.

    The two leaders also exchanged views on various regional and global issues of mutual interest, and called for dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward.

    Prime Minister extended his best wishes to the Vice President, Second Lady and their children for a pleasant and productive stay in India.

    Prime Minister conveyed his warm greetings to President Trump and said that he looked forward to his visit to India later this year.

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    MJPS/VJ/SKS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects one dangerous drugs case at airport with seizure worth about $2.2 million (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs yesterday (April 20) detected one drug trafficking case involving a passenger at Hong Kong International Airport and seized about 2.75 kilograms of suspected cocaine, with an estimated market value of about $2.2 million.

    A female passenger, aged 27, arrived in Hong Kong from Johannesburg, South Africa, via Dubai of United Arab Emirates, yesterday. During customs clearance, Customs officers found the batch of suspected cocaine inside her check-in suitcase. She was subsequently arrested.

    An investigation is ongoing.

    Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.

    Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.

    Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.

    Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/en).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu takes stock of Delhi Airport runway upgrade

    Source: Government of India

    Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu takes stock of Delhi Airport runway upgrade

    Stakeholder meeting held to ensure smooth operations at Delhi Airport

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 8:45PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, today chaired a crucial stakeholder meeting at Delhi Airport to address operational challenges arising from the ongoing upgradation work on runway 10/28 and the impact of unexpected westerly wind patterns. The meeting had participation of all the stakeholders from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, including Secretary Shri Vumlunmang Vualnam, Airports Authority of India (AAI) Chairman Shri Vipin Kumar, DGCA Director General Shri Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, along with representatives from Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), all the airlines and the CISF.

    During the meeting, the Minister reviewed the current situation, emphasizing the importance of ensuring minimal disruption to passengers and airline operations. Shri Ram Mohan Naidu stressed that smooth operations at Delhi Airport are of paramount importance and directed all stakeholders to work collaboratively to address the challenges effectively. He emphasized on the need for comprehensive planning that factors in both the ongoing runway upgradation and potential weather-related disruptions.

    Reiterating that passenger comfort and convenience must remain the top priority, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu has given strict instruction to all stakeholders to take timely, pre-emptive measures based on weather updates and ensure efficient utilization of available resources.

    Addressing the workforce readiness, the Minister called for enhanced coordination amongst the stakeholders to prepare for any unforeseen challenges, ensuring seamless airport operations despite 1 of the 4 runways under upgradation. The Air Traffic Control (ATC) and AAI teams have been encouraged to leverage their expertise for maintain operational efficiency during this critical period.

    Shri Ram Mohan Naidu expressing confidence in the collective capabilities said, “I am confident that with collective efforts and robust coordination, Delhi Airport will continue to deliver a world-class experience to its travelers, even amidst the challenges posed by infrastructure enhancements and unexpected weather conditions.”

    The meeting focused on the importance of transparent and timely communication with passengers to alleviate any inconvenience during this period. The discussion concluded with a clear emphasis on meeting the runway upgradation timelines while minimizing disruptions to airlines and inconvenience to passengers.

    The Ministry remains committed to prioritizing passenger convenience and operational efficiency, ensuring that India’s aviation sector remains a benchmark for excellence.

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    Beena Yadav/Divyanshu Kumar

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: REFIT COMPLETION OF MNDF HURAVEE STRENGTHENS INDIA-MALDIVES DEFENCE COOPERATION

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 5:26PM by PIB Delhi

    As part of India’s commitment to regional maritime security under the vision of ‘Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth for all in the Region (MAHASAGAR)‘ and its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, the Indian Navy successfully completed a major refit of the Maldivian Coast Guard Ship MNDF Huravee at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai.

    The ship set sail for Maldives on 21 Apr upon completing her maiden Normal Refit at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai. Over the last four months since her arrival at Mumbai on 13 Nov 24, major works concerning maintenance of all machinery, weapons, and sensors, along with a habitability upgrade, were undertaken. The ship was thereafter put through rigorous harbour & sea trials, operational checks of equipment, safety audits and Operational Sea Training before her departure.

    The efforts put in by various Indian Navy agencies and dockyard teams across multiple departments were instrumental in achieving this extensive refit within the stipulated timeframe. The successful refit of MNDF Huravee underscores the strong diplomatic and military cooperation between the two countries and reaffirms India’s unwavering commitment to being a reliable partner in the region.

    The Make in India ship handed over to MNDF in May 2023 as a replacement for an older platform, has played a crucial role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Medical Evacuation operations across the Maldivian archipelago.

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    VM/SKS                                                                                                        91/25

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Centre imposes 12% safeguard duty to shield Indian steel sector

    Source: Government of India

    Centre imposes 12% safeguard duty to shield Indian steel sector

    Relief for domestic producers amid surge in steel imports

    Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy thanks PM Modi for decisive leadership under Atmanirbhar Bharat

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 8:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri H. D. Kumaraswamy, welcomed the decision to impose a 12 percent safeguard duty on the import of certain non-alloy and alloy steel flat products. This measure is a timely and necessary step to protect domestic steel manufacturers from the adverse impact of import surges and to ensure fair competition in the market.

    “This move will provide critical relief to domestic producers, especially small and medium-scale enterprises, who have faced immense pressure from rising imports. The safeguard duty will help restore market stability and reinforce the confidence of the domestic industry.”

    Shri Kumaraswamy expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his leadership and continued support in strengthening strategic sectors under the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. He reiterated that the Ministry remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the Indian steel sector remains resilient, self-reliant, and globally competitive.

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    TPJ/NJ

    (Release ID: 2123294) Visitor Counter : 85

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Two-day International Conclave organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture in Arunachal Pradesh

    Source: Government of India

    Two-day International Conclave organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture in Arunachal Pradesh

    Namsai rich in Buddhist Heritage: ideal Centre for a Buddhist Circuit in North- East: Shri Chowna Mein, Deputy Chief Minister

    Over 300 participants including heads of Sanghas, Bhikkus, Bhikkhunis, Academicians and Representatives from Bhutan, Myanmar, Cambodia participated in the Seminar

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 5:18PM by PIB Delhi

     Rooted in centuries old Buddhist culture and traditions, Namsai, a district in the extreme end of Arunachal Pradesh is a unique example of how an ancient way of life is still being practised here even today, explained Mr Chowna Mein, the Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh at the international Conclave on Buddha Dhamma and the Culture of North- East India.

    Making a strong case for initiating a Buddhist tourism circuit in the state, he said “our culture is deeply rooted in socio-religious festivals, we recently concluded the Songpa Water Festival, a Buddhist festival celebrated by the Khamti community in Arunachal Pradesh, specifically in Namsai and other areas like Changlang and Itanagar, where visitors from overseas were invited to participate. It was a grand success. He added that there were several important ancient pilgrimage sites associated with Buddhism in the state too.

    In fact, his tribe the Tai Khamtis were the first, according to him, to wage the first war of independence against the British in 1839. He mentioned that “We defeated the British in the Anglo- Khamti war, and as a result of this subsequently, the British burnt down our villages and scatter our tribe in several areas of North East.”

     

    According to Mr Mein, they have preserved the Pali language through their Khamti script. In fact, there are just two ancient scripts in the State: theirs (the Lic Tai) and the Bhoti. Even the Ramayan and Mahabharat are written in the Khamti script (Lic Tai).

    The Deputy Chief Minister also explained the enormous “good work” the Mahabodhi Society was undertaking in the region and he was hoping the region would get a skill development centre for empowerment of the youth of the region.

    He was speaking at the 2-day International Conclave organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and supported by the government of Arunachal Pradesh and the Mahabodhi Society of Namsai. There were over 300 participants including heads of Sanghas, Bhikkus and Bhikkhunis, eminent members of the society, political representatives, professors, academicians from the Northeast and other regions _attending the event. Representatives from Bhutan, Myanmar, Cambodia participated in the seminar sessions, while the Consul General of Bhutan in Guwahati Mr Jigme Thinly Namgyal, addressed the congregation in the inaugural session.

    Emphasizing the “our dharma is our culture; which is our way of life,”Mr Zingnu Namchoom, MLA Namsai explained that even in our weddings the Buddha’s teachings are given on how to lead our married life in society. Buddhism is in our blood stream, he noted. The dhamma address was presented by Most Ven. Aggadhamma Bhaddanta, Chief Abbot of the Pariyatti Sasana Buddha Vihara, Namsai.

    The Secretary General of IBC Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche welcomed the guest and the Director General of IBC Mr Abhijit Halder, explained the details of the event and presented the concluding remarks. The sessions will include discussions on the following topics: Historical relevance of Buddha Dhamma in the North-East of India, Art, Culture & Heritage of Buddhist Communities and a special Session on the Cultural Impact on Buddhists in the region.

    Special prayers and chanting will be held tomorrow at the Golden Pagoda for the victims of the recent earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. This will be followed by a session on Vipassana. 

     

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    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2123208) Visitor Counter : 98

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI Approves Google’s Settlement Proposal in Android TV Case

    Source: Government of India

    Competition Commission of India

    CCI Approves Google’s Settlement Proposal in Android TV Case

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 8:32PM by PIB Delhi

    1. The Competition Commission of India (Commission), in terms of Section 48A (3) of the Competition Act, 2002 (the ‘Act’), and the Competition Commission of India (Settlement) Regulations, 2024 (‘Settlement Regulations’), vide majority order, has agreed to the Settlement Proposal of Google in the Android TV case.
    1. The case originated from the Information filed by two individuals, namely Mr. Kshitiz Arya and Mr. Purushottam Anand under Section 19(1)(a) of the Act, 2002 against Google LLC, Google India Private Limited, Xiaomi Technology India Private Limited and TCL India Holding Private Limited for alleged contravention of various provisions of the Act. 
    1. The gist of the allegation was that Google misused its dominant position by enforcing restrictive agreements on OEMs, including compulsory bundling of the Play Store with Android TV OS and preventing the use or creation of rival forked Android versions through its Anti-Fragmentation Agreements. These practices allegedly blocked market access, curbed competition, and placed unrelated obligations on Original Equipment Manufacturers (‘OEMs’), ultimately stifling innovation and violating provisions of Section 4 of the Act.
    1. The Commission formed a prima facie view that Google has contravened various provisions of Sections 3(4) and 4 of the Act and directed the DG to cause an investigation to be made under the provisions of Section 26(1) of the Act.
    1. The investigation concluded that Android Smart TV OS has a dominant position in the relevant market of ‘licensable Smart TV device operating system in India’ and Google Play Store is in a dominant position in the ‘Market for App Store for Android Smart TV OS in India’. It found that Google’s agreements—Television App Distribution Agreement (‘TADA’) and Android Compatibility Commitments (‘ACC’)—executed together, imposed unfair terms by requiring the pre-installation of its full app bundle Google TV Services, preventing OEMs from developing or using Android forks, and hindering innovation. These agreements extended across entire device portfolios and included the tying of services like YouTube with the Play Store, strengthening Google’s market dominance and breaching several provisions of Section 4 of the Act. The allegation of refusal to deal and exclusive supply under Section 3(4) was not substantiated.
    1. Google filed a Settlement Application under Section 48A of the Act, read with the Settlement Regulations. The Commission invited objections and suggestions in terms of regulation 5 of the Settlement Regulations on the settlement proposal from 45 concerned parties. The Commission considered the settlement proposal and observed that under the “New India Agreement,” Google will provide a standalone license for the Play Store and Play Services for Android smart TVs in India, thereby removing the requirement to bundle these services or impose default placement conditions. Additionally, by waiving the need for a valid ACC for devices shipped into India that do not include Google apps, OEMs can now sell and develop incompatible Android devices without violating the TADA.
    1. Consequently, considering the material on record and the assessment of the Settlement Proposal after taking into consideration the nature, gravity, and impact of the contraventions, the Commission agrees to the proposal for settlement in terms of Section 48A (3) of the Act and the Settlement Regulations. The Final Settlement Amount, after applying a Settlement Discount of 15%, is Rs. 20.24 crore.
    1. A copy of the public version of the order passed is available on the CCI website at https://www.cci.gov.in/antitrust/orders/details/1182/0.

     

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    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2123289)

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s DBT: Boosting Welfare Efficiency

    Source: Government of India

    India’s DBT: Boosting Welfare Efficiency

    Report Reveals ₹3.48 Lakh Crore in Savings and 16-Fold Increase in Beneficiaries

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 5:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    India’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system has helped the country save an estimated ₹3.48 lakh crore till 2024 by plugging leakages in welfare delivery, according to a new quantitative assessment by the BlueKraft Digital Foundation. The report also finds that subsidy allocations have been halved from 16 percent to 9 percent of total government expenditure since the implementation of DBT, reflecting a major improvement in the efficiency of public spending.

    The assessment evaluates data from 2009 to 2024 to examine the impact of DBT on budgetary efficiency, subsidy rationalisation, and social outcomes. It shows how the shift from paper-based disbursals to direct digital transfers has ensured that public funds reach the people they are meant for. One of the key features of DBT is the use of the JAM trinity, which stands for Jan Dhan bank accounts, Aadhaar unique ID numbers and mobile phones. This framework has enabled targeted and transparent transfers on a massive scale.

    To capture the full extent of its impact, the report introduces a Welfare Efficiency Index. This index combines fiscal outcomes such as savings and reduced subsidies with social indicators like the number of beneficiaries reached, offering a clear picture of how well the system is working. The index has risen nearly threefold from 0.32 in 2014 to 0.91 in 2023, reflecting a sharp increase in both effectiveness and inclusion.

    At a time when governments across the world are rethinking how to strengthen social protection, the DBT model presents valuable lessons in aligning financial prudence with equitable governance.

    Key Findings

    Budgetary Allocation Trends

    The data on subsidy allocations reveals a significant shift post-DBT implementation, highlighting improvements in fiscal efficiency despite a surge in beneficiary coverage.

    • Pre-DBT Era (2009–2013): Subsidies averaged 16% of total expenditure, amounting to ₹2.1 lakh crore annually, with considerable leakages in the system.
    • Post-DBT Era (2014–2024): Subsidy expenditure decreased to 9% of total expenditure in 2023-24, while beneficiary coverage surged 16-fold from 11 crore to 176 crore.
    • COVID-19 Outlier: A temporary spike in subsidies occurred during the 2020–21 fiscal year due to emergency fiscal measures. However, efficiency rebounded following the pandemic, further validating the system’s long-term effectiveness.

     

     

    Subsidy Allocation Trends (2009-2024)

    The reduction in subsidy burden, despite a significant increase in coverage, underscores DBT’s role in optimising fiscal allocations. By eliminating ghost beneficiaries and middlemen, the system redirected funds to genuine recipients without proportional increases in the budget.

    Sectoral Analysis

    A detailed breakdown of sector-specific impacts shows how DBT has particularly benefited high-leakage programmes.

     

    • Food Subsidies (PDS): ₹1.85 lakh crore saved, accounting for 53% of total DBT savings. This was largely due to Aadhaar-linked ration card authentication.
    • MGNREGS: 98% of wages were transferred timely, saving ₹42,534 crore through DBT-driven accountability.
    • PM-KISAN: ₹22,106 crore saved by deleting 2.1 crore ineligible beneficiaries from the scheme.
    • Fertilizer Subsidies: Sales of 158 lakh MT of fertiliser were reduced, saving ₹18,699.8 crore through targeted disbursement.

     

    Sectoral Impact Analysis

    These sector-specific savings highlight DBT’s disproportionate impact on high-leakage programs, such as food subsidies and wage schemes like MGNREGS. The system’s role in biometric authentication and direct transfers has been crucial in improving efficiency and curbing misuse.

    Correlation and Causality Findings

    The correlation analysis further underscores the effectiveness of DBT in improving welfare delivery.

    • Strong Positive Correlation (0.71): There is a strong positive correlation between beneficiary coverage and DBT savings, signifying that as coverage expanded, savings increased.
    • v Negative Correlation (-0.74): There is a significant negative correlation between subsidy expenditure as a percentage of total expenditure and welfare efficiency, highlighting the reduction in waste and leakages facilitated by DBT.

     

    Heat-map showing correlation between key variables

    The heat-map analysis quantifies the relationship between budget allocations, DBT savings, and welfare efficiency. As DBT savings increased, subsidy allocations decreased, demonstrating that DBT improved targeting while reducing leakages. This enabled the government to expand welfare programs, reaching more beneficiaries without increasing fiscal outlays. The inverse relationship between subsidy expenditure and efficiency challenges critiques of “declining welfare spending” and affirms DBT’s role as a powerful tool for fiscal optimisation.

     

    Welfare Efficiency Index (WEI)

    As part of the methodology for assessing the impact of the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, the Welfare Efficiency Index (WEI) was developed as a composite metric to measure efficiency gains across various dimensions. The WEI comprises three weighted components:

     

    1. DBT Savings (50% weight): This component captures the direct reduction in leakage, normalised against the maximum observed savings of ₹3.48 lakh crore.

     

    1. Subsidy Reduction (30% weight): Measures the decline in subsidy expenditure as a percentage of the total national budget.

     

    1. Beneficiary Growth (20% weight): Assesses the expansion in the number of beneficiaries, adjusted for population growth.

     

    The rise in the WEI from 0.32 in 2014 to 0.91 in 2023 quantifies systemic improvements, emphasising that efficiency gains stem from multi-dimensional factors—not merely budget cuts. This index provides a replicable model for global policymakers to evaluate welfare reforms.

    The WEI surged, driven by:

    • DBT Savings (50% weight): ₹3.48 lakh crore cumulative leakage reduction.
    • Subsidy Reduction (30% weight): A decline from 16% to 9% of total expenditure.
    • Beneficiary Growth (20% weight): A 16-fold expansion in coverage.

     

    Conclusion

    The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system has proven to be a transformative tool for India’s welfare delivery, significantly enhancing the efficiency of public spending and expanding the reach of social benefits. Over the past decade, DBT has not only reduced fiscal leakages by ₹3.48 lakh crore but also ensured that subsidies are better targeted, with a marked decline in subsidy allocations as a percentage of total expenditure. The rise in the Welfare Efficiency Index (WEI) underscores the success of DBT in optimizing fiscal resources while broadening coverage for millions of beneficiaries. The sectoral savings, particularly in high-leakage programs like food subsidies, MGNREGS, and PM-KISAN, illustrate how the system’s integration of Aadhaar and mobile-based transfers has addressed inefficiencies and curbed misuse.

    As per the report by the BlueKraft Digital Foundation, this data-driven assessment demonstrates that fiscal prudence and inclusivity can go hand-in-hand, offering valuable insights for policymakers worldwide looking to refine their own social protection models. As governments grapple with balancing fiscal constraints and social equity, India’s experience with DBT presents a compelling case for the efficacy of direct transfers in fostering both economic and social development. The lessons learned from this success story can guide global efforts to make welfare systems more efficient, transparent, and inclusive.

    Reference:

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Ram Mohan Naidu visits Air India Hq and training facilities in Gurugram

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Ram Mohan Naidu visits Air India Hq and training facilities in Gurugram

    Shri Ram Mohan Naidu inaugurates Air India Safety Promotion Centre

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 8:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, today undertook a comprehensive visit to Air India’s corporate and training infrastructure in Gurugram, reflecting the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing safety, training, and operational excellence in Indian aviation. His visit commenced with a walkthrough of the Air India Experience Centre, a facility that encapsulates the airline’s 92-year legacy and showcases its Vihaan.AI transformation journey.

    The Minister then visited the Emergency Control Centre (ECC) and the Integrated Operations Control Centre (IOCC)-critical facilities that underscore Air India’s operational resilience and commitment to on-time performance. At the Air India Aviation Training Academy in Gurugram, he received an overview of the Academy’s role in shaping aviation professionals, followed by an in-depth tour of training infrastructure including the Safety Lab, Grooming Centre, Security Lab, and the under-construction Simulator Buildings.

    The visit marked a key milestone with the inauguration of the Air India Safety Promotion Centre by Shri  Ram Mohan Naidu in the presence of the Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India. Speaking at the occasion, he said, “On the occasion of inaugurating the Air India Safety Promotion Centre, I am pleased to see a strong commitment towards fostering a safety-first culture in Indian aviation.” “I congratulate Air India for bolstering safety by investing in training its manpower through this state-of-the-art centre inaugurated today, where learnings from past incidents have been thoughtfully curated and translated into immersive, real-world training that goes far beyond the classroom” he added.

    Commenting on the broader vision for Indian aviation, the Minister said, “As India expands its air connectivity across regions, safety remains our top priority. Air India, under the stewardship of the Tata Group and with the dedicated efforts of its committed staff carrying forward the legacy of JRD Tata, is well on its path to becoming one of the world’s best airlines.” He also reiterated the government’s continued partnership with the aviation sector “The Government of India extends its full support to our airlines in building a globally competitive, safe, and reliable aviation ecosystem.”

    The Safety Promotion Centre aims to cultivate a safety-first culture within Air India through immersive learning experiences that draw from real-world scenarios and past incidents. The visit underscored the Ministry’s focus on strengthening India’s aviation infrastructure through enhanced safety protocols, advanced training, and close collaboration with industry stakeholders. Earlier, the Minister was welcomed at the Air India Headquarters by Mr Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD of Air India and his management team.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDEX OF EIGHT CORE INDUSTRIES (BASE: 2011-12=100) FOR MARCH, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 5:00PM by PIB Delhi

    The combined Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) increased by 3.8 per cent (provisional) in March, 2025 as compared to the Index in March, 2024. The production of Cement, Fertilizers, Steel, Electricity, Coal and Refinery Products recorded positive growth in March, 2025. The details of annual indices, monthly indices and growth rates are provided at Annex I and Annex II.

    The ICI measures the combined and individual performance of production of eight core industries viz. Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement and Electricity. The Eight Core Industries comprise 40.27 percent of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).

    The final growth rate of Index of Eight Core Industries for December 2024 was observed at 5.1 per cent. The cumulative growth rate of ICI during April to March, 2024-25 is 4.4 per cent (provisional) as compared to the corresponding period of last year.

    The summary of the Index of Eight Core Industries is given below:

    Coal – Coal production (weight: 10.33 per cent) increased by 1.6 per cent in March, 2025 over March, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 5.1 per cent during April to March, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Crude Oil – Crude Oil production (weight: 8.98 per cent) declined by 1.9 per cent in March, 2025 over March, 2024. Its cumulative index declined by 2.2 per cent during April to March, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Natural Gas – Natural Gas production (weight: 6.88 per cent) declined by 12.7 per cent in March, 2025 over March, 2024. Its cumulative index declined by 1.2 per cent during April to March, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Petroleum Refinery Products – Petroleum Refinery production (weight: 28.04 per cent) increased by 0.2 per cent in March, 2025 over March, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 2.8 per cent during April to March, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Fertilizers – Fertilizer production (weight: 2.63 per cent) increased by 8.8 per cent in March, 2025 over March, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 2.9 per cent during April to March, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Steel – Steel production (weight: 17.92 per cent) increased by 7.1 per cent in March, 2025 over March, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 6.7 per cent during April to March, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Cement – Cement production (weight: 5.37 per cent) increased by 11.6 per cent in March, 2025 over March, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 6.3 per cent during April to March, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Electricity – Electricity generation (weight: 19.85 per cent) increased by 6.2 per cent in March, 2025 over March, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 5.1 per cent during April to March, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

     

    Note 1: Data for January, 2025, February, 2025 and March, 2025 are provisional. Index numbers of Core Industries are revised/finalized as per updated data from source agencies.

    Note 2: Since April 2014, Electricity generation data from Renewable sources are also included.

    Note 3: The industry-wise weights indicated above are individual industry weights derived from IIP and blown up on pro rata basis to a combined weight of ICI equal to 100.

    Note 4: Since March 2019, a new steel product called Hot Rolled Pickled and Oiled (HRPO) under the item ‘Cold Rolled (CR) coils’ within the production of finished steel has also been included.

    Note 5: Release of the index for April, 2025 will be on Tuesday, 20th May, 2025.

     

    Annex I

    Performance of Eight Core Industries

    Yearly Index & Growth Rate

    Base Year: 2011-12=100

    Index

    Sector

    Coal

    Crude Oil

    Natural Gas

    Refinery Products

    Fertilizers

    Steel

    Cement

    Electricity

    Overall Index

    Weight

    10.33

    8.98

    6.88

    28.04

    2.63

    17.92

    5.37

    19.85

    100.00

    2012-13

    103.2

    99.4

    85.6

    107.2

    96.7

    107.9

    107.5

    104.0

    103.8

    2013-14

    104.2

    99.2

    74.5

    108.6

    98.1

    115.8

    111.5

    110.3

    106.5

    2014-15

    112.6

    98.4

    70.5

    108.8

    99.4

    121.7

    118.1

    126.6

    111.7

    2015-16

    118.0

    97.0

    67.2

    114.1

    106.4

    120.2

    123.5

    133.8

    115.1

    2016-17

    121.8

    94.5

    66.5

    119.7

    106.6

    133.1

    122.0

    141.6

    120.5

    2017-18

    124.9

    93.7

    68.4

    125.2

    106.6

    140.5

    129.7

    149.2

    125.7

    2018-19

    134.1

    89.8

    69.0

    129.1

    107.0

    147.7

    147.0

    156.9

    131.2

    2019-20

    133.6

    84.5

    65.1

    129.4

    109.8

    152.6

    145.7

    158.4

    131.6

    2020-21

    131.1

    80.1

    59.8

    114.9

    111.6

    139.4

    130.0

    157.6

    123.2

    2021-22

    142.3

    77.9

    71.3

    125.1

    112.4

    163.0

    156.9

    170.1

    136.1

    2022-23

    163.5

    76.6

    72.4

    131.2

    125.1

    178.1

    170.6

    185.2

    146.7

    2023-24

    182.7

    77.1

    76.8

    135.9

    129.8

    200.4

    185.7

    198.3

    157.8

    Apr-Mar 2024-25*

    192.0

    75.4

    75.9

    139.7

    133.5

    213.8

    197.4

    208.4

    164.8

        *Provisional

     

    Growth Rates (on Y-o-Y basis in per cent)

    Sector

    Coal

    Crude Oil

    Natural Gas

    Refinery Products

    Fertilizers

    Steel

    Cement

    Electricity

    Overall Growth

    Weight

    10.33

    8.98

    6.88

    28.04

    2.63

    17.92

    5.37

    19.85

    100.00

    2012-13

    3.2

    -0.6

    -14.4

    7.2

    -3.3

    7.9

    7.5

    4.0

    3.8

    2013-14

    1.0

    -0.2

    -12.9

    1.4

    1.5

    7.3

    3.7

    6.1

    2.6

    2014-15

    8.0

    -0.9

    -5.3

    0.2

    1.3

    5.1

    5.9

    14.8

    4.9

    2015-16

    4.8

    -1.4

    -4.7

    4.9

    7.0

    -1.3

    4.6

    5.7

    3.0

    2016-17

    3.2

    -2.5

    -1.0

    4.9

    0.2

    10.7

    -1.2

    5.8

    4.8

    2017-18

    2.6

    -0.9

    2.9

    4.6

    0.03

    5.6

    6.3

    5.3

    4.3

    2018-19

    7.4

    -4.1

    0.8

    3.1

    0.3

    5.1

    13.3

    5.2

    4.4

    2019-20

    -0.4

    -5.9

    -5.6

    0.2

    2.7

    3.4

    -0.9

    0.9

    0.4

    2020-21

    -1.9

    -5.2

    -8.2

    -11.2

    1.7

    -8.7

    -10.8

    -0.5

    -6.4

    2021-22

    8.5

    -2.6

    19.2

    8.9

    0.7

    16.9

    20.8

    8.0

    10.4

    2022-23

    14.8

    -1.7

    1.6

    4.8

    11.3

    9.3

    8.7

    8.9

    7.8

    2023-24

    11.8

    0.6

    6.1

    3.6

    3.7

    12.5

    8.9

    7.1

    7.6

    Apr-Mar 2024-25*

    5.1

    -2.2

    -1.2

    2.8

    2.9

    6.7

    6.3

    5.1

    4.4

      *Provisional.

       Y-o-Y is calculated over the corresponding financial year of previous year

     

    Annex II

    Performance of Eight Core Industries

    Monthly Index & Growth Rate

    Base Year: 2011-12=100

    Index

    Sector

    Coal

    Crude Oil

    Natural Gas

    Refinery Products

    Fertilizers

    Steel

    Cement

    Electricity

    Overall Index

    Weight

    10.33

    8.98

    6.88

    28.04

    2.63

    17.92

    5.37

    19.85

    100.00

    Mar-24

    256.0

    78.9

    79.3

    147.0

    116.6

    219.8

    219.4

    204.2

    175.0

    Apr-24

    173.3

    76.3

    74.8

    137.9

    117.8

    210.0

    192.3

    212.0

    161.7

    May-24

    184.7

    77.9

    78.7

    141.8

    135.9

    209.7

    190.6

    229.3

    168.2

    Jun-24

    186.4

    74.4

    75.8

    134.1

    134.0

    204.0

    198.5

    222.8

    163.7

    Jul-24

    163.0

    76.6

    78.0

    143.3

    138.8

    205.1

    174.6

    220.2

    162.8

    Aug-24

    138.2

    75.7

    77.4

    134.0

    137.5

    206.6

    177.4

    212.3

    156.3

    Sep-24

    151.8

    72.0

    75.8

    134.1

    134.8

    202.0

    178.8

    206.9

    155.4

    Oct-24

    186.0

    74.6

    79.3

    135.5

    136.9

    212.9

    187.2

    207.8

    162.4

    Nov-24

    199.6

    73.9

    75.7

    138.4

    136.2

    212.9

    177.0

    184.1

    159.1

    Dec-24

    215.1

    77.9

    78.1

    149.1

    139.8

    221.8

    211.7

    192.8

    169.4

    Jan-25*

    229.8

    77.9

    78.1

    147.2

    139.0

    228.1

    220.3

    201.9

    173.8

    Feb-25*

    215.6

    69.7

    70.0

    133.5

    124.9

    216.8

    215.2

    194.0

    163.0

    Mar-25*

    260.2

    77.4

    69.2

    147.3

    126.9

    235.5

    244.8

    216.9

    181.7

        *Provisional

     

    Growth Rates (on Y-o-Y basis in per cent)

    Sector

    Coal

    Crude Oil

    Natural Gas

    Refinery Products

    Fertilizers

    Steel

    Cement

    Electricity

    Overall Growth

    Weight

    10.33

    8.98

    6.88

    28.04

    2.63

    17.92

    5.37

    19.85

    100.00

    Mar-24

    8.7

    2.1

    6.3

    1.6

    -1.3

    7.5

    10.6

    8.6

    6.3

    Apr-24

    7.5

    1.7

    8.6

    3.9

    -0.8

    9.8

    0.2

    10.2

    6.9

    May-24

    10.2

    -1.1

    7.5

    0.5

    -1.7

    8.9

    -0.6

    13.7

    6.9

    Jun-24

    14.8

    -2.6

    3.3

    -1.5

    2.4

    6.3

    1.8

    8.6

    5.0

    Jul-24

    6.8

    -2.9

    -1.3

    6.6

    5.3

    7.0

    5.1

    7.9

    6.3

    Aug-24

    -8.1

    -3.4

    -3.6

    -1.0

    3.2

    4.1

    -2.5

    -3.7

    -1.5

    Sep-24

    2.6

    -3.9

    -1.3

    5.8

    1.9

    1.8

    7.6

    0.5

    2.4

    Oct-24

    7.8

    -4.8

    -1.2

    5.2

    0.4

    5.7

    3.1

    2.0

    3.8

    Nov-24

    7.5

    -2.1

    -1.9

    2.9

    2.0

    10.5

    13.1

    4.4

    5.8

    Dec-24

    5.3

    0.6

    -1.8

    2.8

    1.7

    7.3

    10.3

    6.2

    5.1

    Jan-25*

    4.6

    -1.1

    -1.5

    8.3

    3.0

    4.7

    14.6

    2.4

    5.1

    Feb-25*

    1.7

    -5.2

    -6.0

    0.8

    10.2

    6.9

    10.8

    3.6

    3.4

    Mar-25*

    1.6

    -1.9

    -12.7

    0.2

    8.8

    7.1

    11.6

    6.2

    3.8

       *Provisional.

       Y-o-Y is calculated over the corresponding financial year of previous year

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal / Abhijith Narayanan

    (Release ID: 2123185) Visitor Counter : 184

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal Stresses Innovation and Inclusive Urban Planning in Transport Sector, at 17th Civil Services Day celebrations

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal Stresses Innovation and Inclusive Urban Planning in Transport Sector, at 17th Civil Services Day celebrations

    Secretary, MoHUA , Shri Srinivas Katikithala , receives the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration for the successful implementation of the PM SVANidhi  scheme.

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 8:15PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs and Power, Shri Manohar Lal, chaired a session on “Strengthening Urban Transport” at the 17th Civil Services Day in New Delhi. Addressing young civil servants, the Hon’ble Minister encouraged them to think innovatively and adopt out-of-the-box approaches to tackle critical challenges like urban transportation.

    He emphasized the importance of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), urging officers to ensure that every commuter stepping off a metro train or public bus should not have to worry about how to reach home—the last-mile connectivity should be seamless, affordable, and integrated with easy digital payment options.

    The Minister also called on urban planners and policymakers to design cities where residential colonies are located near workplaces, promoting the “walk-to-work” culture. He said the same principle should guide the development of government residential areas, enabling more efficient, livable, and sustainable urban environments.

    Encouraging young officers to be transformative, solution-driven leaders, Shri Manohar Lal highlighted the achievements in urban transport and envisioned Indian cities as engines of growth and symbols of sustainability. He urged civil servants to champion inclusive urban planning and model governance to realize the vision of a developed India.

    In a moment of pride for the Ministry, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Srinivas Katikithala, received the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration for the successful implementation of the PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme.

    ****

    SK

    (Release ID: 2123286) Visitor Counter : 17

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, holds a review meeting with Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai in New Delhi on the implementation of three New Criminal Laws in the state

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, holds a review meeting with Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai in New Delhi on the implementation of three New Criminal Laws in the state

    Chhattisgarh should become an ideal state by implementing the New Criminal Laws soon

    Chhattisgarh government should fix accountability of DSP level officers for filing chargesheet within 60 and 90 days

    Under the New Criminal Laws, the entire process—from recording evidence to conducting trials—can be carried out through video conferencing, which will significantly save manpower

    Every police station and DSP level officers in Chhattisgarh should regularly use NATGRID in serious crime investigations

    Posted On: 21 APR 2025 7:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, held a review meeting in New Delhi today with Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai to assess the implementation of three new criminal laws in the state. The discussion focused on the progress and current status of key provisions concerning police, prisons, courts, prosecution, and forensic services. The meeting was attended by the Deputy Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Union Home Secretary, Chief Secretary of Chhattisgarh, Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), Director General of Police of Chhattisgarh, Director of the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB), along with other senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Government of Chhattisgarh.

    In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah emphasized the importance of making the full implementation of the three new criminal laws—enacted under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi—a top priority in Chhattisgarh. He said that the primary objective of these laws is to strengthen and modernize the Indian judicial system, and that a state like Chhattisgarh stands to benefit significantly from these reforms. He said that Chhattisgarh should take the complete implementation of the three new criminal laws as a challenge and become an ideal state by implementing them soon.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the Chhattisgarh government should ensure accountability by assigning the responsibility to Deputy Superintendent of Police level officers for filing chargesheets within 60 and within 90 days for serious crimes. He highlighted that under the new criminal laws, the entire process—from recording evidence to conducting trials—can be carried out through video conferencing, significantly reducing the need for manpower and streamlining judicial.

    Union Home Minister emphasized that all police stations and DSP-level officers in Chhattisgarh should regularly use the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) in serious crime investigations. He also recommended a structured review mechanism for the implementation of the new criminal laws in the state. Shri Shah added that the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police should conduct weekly reviews, the State Home Minister should review the progress every 15 days, and the Chief Minister should assess the implementation on a monthly basis.

    ****

     

    RK/VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2123280) Visitor Counter : 100

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Celebrating Earth as Only NASA Can

    Source: NASA

    From the iconic image of Earthrise taken by Apollo 8 crew, to the famous Pale Blue Dot image of Earth snapped by Voyager I spacecraft, to state-of-the-art observations of our planet by new satellites such as PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem), NASA has given us novel ways to see our home. This Earth Day, NASA is sharing how — by building on decades of innovation—we use the unique vantage point of space to observe and understand our dynamic planet in ways that we cannot from the ground.
    NASA has been observing Earth from space for more than 60 years, with cutting-edge scientific technology that can revolutionize our understanding of our home planet and provide benefits to all humanity. NASA observations include land data that helps farmers improve crop production, research on the air we breathe, and studies of atmospheric layers high above us that protect every living thing on the planet.
    “NASA Science delivers every second of every day for the benefit all, and it begins with how we observe our home planet from the unique vantage point of space,” said Nicky Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “Our satellites, Mars rovers, astronauts and other NASA Science missions send back beautiful images of our planet, from the smallest of plankton to the pale blue dot, to help give us a comprehensive, detailed view of our home that we especially celebrate each Earth Day.”
    NASA data and tools are vital to federal, state, local, and international governments to monitor and manage land, air, and water resources. From mapping the ocean floor to finding critical mineral deposits to alerting land managers when fire risk is high, NASA’s data and information informs nearly every aspect of our economy and our lives.
    “Another way NASA celebrates Earth Day is by sharing information about how our science benefits the entire nation, such as by providing U.S. farmers and ranchers with ongoing measurements of water, crop health, wildfire predictions, and knowledge of what is being grown around the world,” said Karen St. Germain, director of NASA’s Earth Science Division at the agency’s headquarters in Washington. “This data informs field level farming and ranching decisions with impact felt as far as the commodity-trading floor and our grocery stores.”
    Next up for NASA’s work to help mitigate natural disasters is a mission called NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) which is a partnership between NASA and ISRO (India Space Research Organization). NISAR, which is targeted to launch later this year, will measure land changes from earthquakes, landslides, and volcanos, producing more NASA science data to aid in disaster response. The mission’s radar will detect movements of the planet’s surface as small as 0.4 inches over areas about the size of half a tennis court. By tracking subtle changes in Earth’s surface, it will spot warning signs of imminent volcanic eruptions, help to monitor groundwater supplies, track the melt rate of ice sheets tied to sea level rise, and observe shifts in the distribution of vegetation around the world. 
    From our oceans to our skies, to our ice caps, to our mountains, and to our rivers and streams, NASA’s Earth observations enhance our understanding of the world around us and celebrate the incredible planet we call home.
    To download NASA’s 2025 Earth Day poster, visit:
    https://nasa.gov/earthdayposters

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: “Booker” for High-End Brothel Network Sentenced to One Year in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant vetted clientele via cell phones which contained thousands of verified sex buyers in Massachusetts and Virginia; Brothel network generated over $5.6 million in revenue from approximately 9,450 scheduled commercial sex dates with sex buyers

    BOSTON – A Korean national residing in Dedham, Mass., who served primarily as the “booker” for an interstate prostitution network that operated sophisticated high-end brothels in greater Boston and eastern Virginia, was sentenced on April 18, 2025 in federal court in Boston. 

    Junmyung Lee, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Julia E. Kobick to one year in prison, to be followed by one year of supervised release. Junmyung Lee is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. The Court also ordered a forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $200,000, equal to the amount of proceeds earned by the defendant during the conspiracy. In October 2024, Junmyung Lee pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to persuade, induce, entice and coerce one or more individuals to travel in interstate or foreign commerce to engage in prostitution; and one count of money laundering conspiracy.

    Junmyung Lee was arrested and charged in November 2023 with co-defendants Han Lee, 42, of Cambridge, Mass. and James Lee, 69, of Torrance, Calif. The defendants were subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2024. Han Lee pleaded guilty in September 2024 and, in March 2025, was sentenced to four years in prison to be followed by one year of supervised release. The defendant was also ordered to pay forfeiture in the amount of $5,418,572 and restitution in an amount to be determined at a later date. James Lee pleaded guilty in February 2025 and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 28, 2025.

    From at least January 2022 through November 2023, Junmyung Lee conspired with Han Lee and James Lee to operate an interstate prostitution network with multiple brothels, in greater Boston and eastern Virginia, designed to entice women to travel interstate to engage in prostitution. Junmyung Lee and his co-conspirators also conspired to launder the proceeds from the prostitution network by concealing that the money was derived the prostitution conspiracy.

    Junmyung Lee was recruited to work for the prostitution network in approximately late 2021 through early 2022, as the business expanded. His main role in the conspiracy was that of the appointment “booker” and assisted with various tasks to maintain the prostitution network. In exchange, Han Lee paid Junmyung Lee $6,000-$8,000 per month. During the entirety of the conspiracy, the brothel network generated over $5.6 million in revenue from approximately 9,450 scheduled commercial sex dates with sex buyers.

    As “booker,” Junmyung Lee was responsible for vetting sex buyers, booking appointments and communicating directly with vetted customers via at least two cell phones – for Massachusetts and for Virginia, respectively. The brothel cell phones each contained over 2,800 verified customers of the prostitution business. An additional known cell phone containing additional contacts for the Virginia brothel was never recovered. Junmyung Lee also helped transport women to and from the airport, with some women working at the brothel locations on multiple occasions and in multiple states.

    The defendants rented high-end apartments in Massachusetts and Virginia to serve as brothel locations, which they furnished and regularly maintained. In June 2022, Junmyung Lee leased one of the brothel locations in Cambridge, Mass. under his own name. In exchange for the lease, Junmyung Lee received a large cash payment of prostitution proceeds from Han Lee. Junmyung Lee used a portion of the cash payment towards the purchase of a Corvette.

    Additionally, Junmyung Lee collected the cash proceeds from the various brothel locations at the direction of Han Lee and then conceal the proceeds via structured deposits into personal bank accounts and through peer-to-peer payments with other conspirators. The defendants also regularly used hundreds of thousands of dollars of the cash proceeds from the prostitution business to purchase money orders (in values under an amount that would trigger reporting and identification requirements) to conceal the source of the funds. These money orders were then used to pay for rent and utilities at the brothel locations.

    Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Cambridge Police Commissioner Christine Elow made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Central District of California and the Eastern District of Virginia; the U.S. Postal Service; and Watertown Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey E. Weinstein of the Criminal Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Raquelle Kaye, of the Asset Recovery Unit are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Haiti: Women & girls – Joint Security Council Media Stakeout

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Comments to the media by Jérôme Bonnafont, Permanent Representative of the Republic of France to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of April, on behalf of Denmark, Greece, Guyana, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, the United Kingdom and France, signatories of the shared commitments on Women, Peace and Security, on the situation on Haiti.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZgDTxNCvh0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Yakama Man Sentenced to 72 Months in Prison for Sexual Abuse in Indian Country of an Incapacitated Teenager

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Yakima, Washington – Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that on April 14, 2025, United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Darius Morningstar Speedis, age 20, of the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, to 72 months in federal prison for Sexual Abuse in Indian Country. Judge Dimke also imposed 10 years of supervised release and required Speedis to register as a sex offender.  

    According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in early November 2022, Speedis sexually assaulted a 16-year-old Native American woman who had become intoxicated and incapacitated. The assault occurred after several teenagers, including the victim and Speedis, consumed alcohol – at least some of which was provided by Speedis. The sexual assault occurred on the Yakama Nation.

    Although the victim had no independent recollection of the sexual assault, Speedis had recorded the assault and then sent a video to the victim.  That video, however, later was deleted and was not recovered by law enforcement.

    At sentencing, Judge Dimke took into account the abuse of trust involved in the sexual assault, including the recording of the sexual assault, as well as Speedis’ age and reported remorse before pronouncing sentence.  Judge Dimke also noted the “epidemic” of sexual abuse occurring on the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation.

    “Sexual violence has no place in any community, and it is especially devastating when it targets vulnerable victims and occurs within communities already impacted by an epidemic of abuse,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard R. Barker. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of Mr.  Speedis’ conduct and our unwavering commitment to seeking justice for victims of sexual assault. My office will continue working closely with our Tribal partners to hold offenders accountable and support survivors on their path to healing.”

    “Not only did Mr. Speedis sexually assault this victim, he recorded that assault and then sent it to her.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “I hope his acknowledgement of guilt can aid in the victim’s recovery from this disturbing episode. The FBI is committed to justice for Native Women, who too often are targets of crimes of violence.”

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yakama Nation Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Letitia A. Sikes.

    1:24-cr-02043-MKD.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Democrats Continue Apology Tour for Deported Illegal Immigrant Gang Member

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    The past week has shown Americans everything they need to know about Democrats’ priorities.
    Today, four more Democrats — Rep. Robert Garcia of California, Rep. Maxwell Frost of Florida, Rep. Yassamin Ansari of Arizona, and Rep. Maxine Dexter of Oregon — are in El Salvador, picking up their party’s mantle of prioritizing a deported illegal immigrant MS-13 gang member over the Americans they represent.
    Why hasn’t Rep. Dexter spoken about these illegal immigrants putting her region at risk?
    Alvaro Flores-Barboza, a 24-year-old citizen of Venezuela, escaped from an ICE processing facility before he was arrested in Portland, Oregon. He has convictions for assault, reckless driving, and felony use of a weapon.
    Juan Jose-Sebastian, a 26-year-old citizen of Guatemala, was arrested in West Palm Beach, Florida. He is wanted for 2017 rape and sexual assault charges in Washington County, Oregon. He was arrested in Florida in 2024 for driving without a license — but was released onto the streets because the Biden Administration refused to take custody of him and Oregon officials refused to extradite him.
    Why hasn’t Rep. Ansari spoken about these illegal immigrants putting her region at risk?
    Bonifacio Renteria-Cruz, a 48-year-old citizen of Mexico, was arrested in Phoenix, Arizona. He has ties to the Sinaloa Cartel and has convictions for aggravated assault and weapons charges. He also has an active arrest warrant for homicide in Mexico.
    Jose Escobar-Robles, a citizen of Mexico, was arrested in Phoenix, Arizona. He is believed to be illegally funneling money to Mexico to benefit violent cartels engaged in drug smuggling and human trafficking.
    Luis Garcia-Sanchez, a citizen of Mexico, was arrested in Phoenix, Arizona. He is connected to the notorious 18th Street Gang and has been wanted for felony narcotics charges dating back to 1987.
    Edgar Guadalupe Jimenez-Aguilar, an illegal immigrant, was arrested in Phoenix, Arizona. He was wanted on charges of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens and possession with intent to distribute heroin.
    Why hasn’t Rep. Frost spoken about these illegal immigrants putting his region at risk?
    Franklin Jose Jimenez-Bracho, a member of the Tren de Aragua gang, was arrested near Orlando, Florida. He was wanted for human trafficking and smuggling.
    Juan Andres Borolo Moreno Romero, a 25-year-old citizen of Venezuela, was arrested by ICE in Orlando, Florida. He is a known member of the brutal Tren de Aragua gang.
    Paula Hernandez Lazaro, a citizen of Mexico, was arrested near Orlando, Florida. She crashed into a patrol car and another vehicle, sending a police officer to the hospital.
    Five illegal immigrant members of the brutal Tren de Aragua gang were arrested after a string of liquor store thefts and robberies in Polk County, Florida. The five have lengthy criminal histories, including “immigration violations, thefts, robbery, drug possession, resisting arrest, fraudulent use of and possession of personal identification, false reports to law enforcement, robbery with a firearm, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, domestic violence (listed as armed and dangerous), and driver’s license offenses.”
    Why hasn’t Rep. Garcia spoken about these illegal immigrants putting his region at risk?
    Mario Edgardo Garcia Aquino, a 43-year-old citizen of El Salvador, arrested in Los Angeles. He is charged with first-degree murder in the brutal slaying of a 13-year-old soccer player in Los Angeles, who was found discarded on the side of the road, and with the sexual assault of another young teenager in 2022.
    Noe Diaz De Leon, a citizen of Mexico, arrested by ICE Los Angeles. He has convictions for attempted murder of a peace officer, burglary, and possession of a controlled substance.
    Boxiao Song, a citizen of China, arrested by ICE Los Angeles. He is a convicted child sex offender.
    Seung Hun Baik, a 39-year-old citizen of South Korea, arrested by ICE Los Angeles. He is wanted in his home country for an aggravated offense involving psychotropic drugs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Astra Fintech Launches $100M Solana Ecosystem Fund to Accelerate Innovation, Announces Strategic Expansion in Asia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Key Takeaways:

    • Astra Fintech launches a major $100 million fund to accelerate innovation within the Solana ecosystem, building on its successful track record of supporting projects like Mulex, DEPE, and MoNE through initiatives like the Seoulana event.
    • Astra is advancing its Payment Finance (PayFi) strategy by integrating Banana Pay, positioning itself at the intersection of decentralized and traditional finance to enable seamless blockchain-based transactions.
    • With Korea as its regional hub, Astra is strategically deploying capital and partnerships to drive Solana adoption across Asia, leveraging Korea’s tech-savvy market as a springboard for broader expansion.

    SEOUL, South Korea, April 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Astra Fintech, a leading force in blockchain infrastructure and fintech solutions, announced the launch of a $100 million dedicated fund to fuel the growth of the Solana ecosystem. The fund will focus on identifying and supporting high-potential builders, startups, and innovative projects within Solana’s rapidly expanding network. This initiative builds on Astra’s proven track record of fostering cutting-edge projects—including Mulex, DEPE, and MoNE—through its sponsorship of Seoulana, a premier Solana ecosystem event hosted by Superteam Korea.

    Astra’s Role in Solana’s Growth: From Sponsorship to Strategic Investment
    Astra Fintech has been an active contributor to the Solana ecosystem, leveraging its expertise and resources to empower breakthrough innovations. As a key sponsor of Seoulana, Astra played a pivotal role in connecting with and nurturing high-impact projects such as:

    • Mulex: A next-gen cross-chain infrastructure solution enhancing Solana’s subchain scalability.
    • DEPE: A composite liquidity steward routing abstract pools on Solana chains
    • MoNE: No-code AI Agent Builder for Solana: Create, deploy, and verify on-chain agents effortlessly

    With the new $100M fund, Astra Fintech is doubling down on its commitment to Solana, providing not just capital but also strategic support to help projects scale globally.

    PayFi Expansion: Banana Pay Integration
    Beyond ecosystem funding, Astra Fintech has taken concrete steps to advance its PayFi (Payment Finance) strategy by integrating Banana Pay, a seamless blockchain-based payment solution. This move positions Astra at the forefront of bridging traditional finance with decentralized payment infrastructures, further solidifying its role as a fintech innovator.

    Asia-First Strategy: Korea as the Launchpad
    Astra Fintech’s expansion plans are strategically centered on Asia, with Korea serving as the regional hub. The company will:

    • Deploy capital from the $100M fund to accelerate Solana-based projects in Asia. Forge partnerships with local developers, enterprises, and regulators to drive blockchain adoption.
    • Expand PayFi solutions, starting with Korea’s tech-savvy market before scaling across the region.

    “Our $100M fund is a testament to Astra’s belief in Solana’s potential to redefine global fintech,” said Jamie, Head of Partnership. “Korea’s vibrant blockchain ecosystem is the perfect launchpad for our Asia expansion, and we’re excited to back the next wave of innovators building on Solana.”

    Looking Ahead: A Multi-Chain Future, Anchored in Solana
    Astra Fintech’s vision extends beyond funding — it aims to build an inter-connected financial ecosystem where Solana’s speed, scalability, and low-cost infrastructure serve as the foundation for next-gen applications. By combining capital deployment, PayFi integration, and regional expertise, Astra is poised to become a key enabler of Web3’s mass adoption.

    About Astra Fintech
    Astra Fintech is a leading blockchain-powered finance solutions provider at the forefront of revolutionizing global payments. With a mission to break down the barriers of traditional payment systems and empower users with seamless, secure, and efficient global digital asset transactions, Astra Fintech delivers innovative PayFi services to individual users worldwide. As a strategic partner within the Sonala ecosystem and backed by shareholders who are Limited Partners (LPs) of Multicoin, Astra Fintech is driving the future of blockchain finance through strategic investments and collaborative innovation. Astra Fintech is committed to unlocking new possibilities in international finance, positioning itself as a trusted leader in the industry.

    Contact:
    Connie
    contact@astra.holdings

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the Astra Fintech. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9aa23a28-0da5-4509-9947-609db7161398

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Annual Report to the Nation: Cancer deaths continue to decline

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    Media Advisory
    Monday, April 21, 2025

    Overall death rates from cancer declined steadily among both men and women from 2001 through 2022.

    What
    Overall death rates from cancer declined steadily among both men and women from 2001 through 2022, even during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the 2024 Annual Report to the Nation on the Status of Cancer. Among men, overall cancer incidence, measured as the rate of new cancer diagnoses, decreased from 2001 through 2013 and then stabilized through 2021. Among women, overall cancer incidence increased slightly every year from 2003 through 2021, with the exception of 2020. The report appeared April 21, 2025, in Cancer.
    Progress in reducing cancer deaths overall is largely the result of declines in both incidence and death rates for lung cancer and several other smoking-related cancers, the researchers noted. New diagnoses and deaths from lung cancer, for example, have declined in both men and women over the past 20 years. Meanwhile, the incidence of cancers associated with obesity has been rising. These include female breast, uterus, colon and rectum, pancreas, kidney, and liver cancers.
    The report also shows that new diagnoses of breast cancer gradually increased over the study period, but the overall breast cancer death rate decreased. Cancer death rates in children declined steadily over the study period; those for adolescents and young adults also declined until recently, when the decline slowed and stabilized. From 2018 to 2022, cancer deaths decreased for each major racial and ethnic population group. From 2017 to 2021 (excluding 2020), cancer incidence was stable among men in each major racial and ethnic population group but increased among women in each major racial and ethnic population group. During the same time period, among men, incidence was highest in non-Hispanic Black men, whereas among women, incidence was highest in American Indian and Alaska Native women. 
    The report also included an analysis of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on observed cancer incidence in individual states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico for the first two years of the pandemic. Cancer incidence declined sharply in 2020, likely due to pandemic-related disruptions in health care, but returned to pre-pandemic levels by 2021. The magnitude of the 2020 decline was similar across states, despite variations in COVID-19 policy restrictions. The researchers noted that these findings underscore the importance of providing access to health care, even during public health emergencies, to ensure the timely diagnosis of cancer.
    The Annual Report to the Nation on the Status of Cancer is a collaborative effort among the National Cancer Institute (NCI), part of the National Institutes of Health; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); the American Cancer Society (ACS); and the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries (NAACCR).The report provides annual updates on cancer trends in the United States.
    The report is based on cancer incidence data from population-based cancer registries, funded by CDC and NCI and compiled by NAACCR, and on cancer death data from the National Center for Health Statistics’ National Vital Statistics System.
    For more about the report, see: https://seer.cancer.gov/report_to_nation/.
    Who

    NAACCR: Recinda L. Sherman, Ph.D., M.P.H.
    ACS: Ahmedin Jemal, D.V.M., Ph.D.
    CDC: Jane Henley, M.S.P.H., and Lisa C. Richardson, M.D., M.P.H.
    NIH: Serban Negoita, M.D., Dr.P.H., and Kathleen A. Cronin, Ph.D., M.P.H.

    The Study
    “Annual Report to the Nation on the Status of Cancer, Featuring State-Level Statistics after the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic” appears April 21, 2025, in Cancer.
    About the National Cancer Institute (NCI): NCI leads the National Cancer Program and NIH’s efforts to dramatically reduce the prevalence of cancer and improve the lives of cancer patients and their families, through research into prevention and cancer biology, the development of new interventions, and the training and mentoring of new researchers. For more information about cancer, please visit the NCI website at cancer.gov or call NCI’s contact center, the Cancer Information Service, at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).
    About the American Cancer Society (ACS): The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 1.5 million volunteers dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer. For more than 100 years, the American Cancer Society has been the preeminent cancer-fighting organization in the United States through research, education, advocacy, and patient services. We have helped lead the evolution in the way the world prevents, detects, treats, and thinks about cancer. For more information go to www.cancer.org.
    About the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are curable or preventable, chronic or acute, or from human activity or deliberate attack, CDC’s world-leading experts protect lives and livelihoods, national security and the U.S. economy by providing timely, commonsense information, and rapidly identifying and responding to diseases, including outbreaks and illnesses. CDC drives science, public health research, and data innovation in communities across the country by investing in local initiatives to protect everyone’s health. For more information, see www.cdc.gov.
    About the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries (NAACCR): The North American Association of Central Cancer Registries, Inc., is a professional organization that develops and promotes uniform data standards for cancer registration; provides education and training; certifies population-based registries; aggregates and publishes data from central cancer registries; and promotes the use of cancer surveillance data and systems for cancer control and epidemiologic research, public health programs, and patient care to reduce the burden of cancer in North America. For more, see naaccr.org.
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kalispell Man Sentenced to Mor Than 10 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Drugs on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    GREAT FALLS – A Kalispell man who conspired to distribute drugs on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 128 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    Cameron Lee Richard Carr, 34, pleaded guilty in September 2024 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Brian Morris presided.

    The government alleged in court documents that in early November 2023, law enforcement received information Carr was trafficking illegal drugs from Kalispell, Montana to Browning, Montana. On November 28, 2023, Carr was observed leaving the Going to the Sun Inn in Browning. A Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services officer saw Carr run a stop sign and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. Carr fled before eventually stopping his vehicle and attempting to run away on foot. He was apprehended by the officer and arrested. The officer saw Carr reach for his waistband when he was arrested, so the officer searched him for weapons before placing him in a patrol vehicle. The officer recovered suspected meth and fentanyl from and noticed a 9 mm Ruger handgun on the ground near the area where Carr was apprehended.

    Law enforcement searched Carr’s vehicle and seized 11 additional firearms, 500 grams of methamphetamine, 168 grams of fentanyl in pill and powder form, and small amounts of heroin, oxycodone, morphine, and cocaine. On December 1, 2023, during an interview with law enforcement, Carr admitted distributing drugs in Browning.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case and the investigation was conducted by the FBI, DEA, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, and the Glacier County Sheriff’s Office.

    The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts California Man of Assaulting a Federal Officer

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    Salt Lake City, Utah – A federal jury in Salt Lake City returned a guilty verdict against a California man after he assaulted a federal officer while law enforcement attempted to arrest him on an outstanding warrant.

    Gabriel Gigena, 41, of Valley Springs, CA, was charged by indictment on July 10, 2024.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on Saturday May 4, 2024, members of the United States Marshal Service (USMS) were summoned to assist with the apprehension of Gigena, who was wanted for a warrant issued by the State of California. Law enforcement learned Gigena was at a park with his twin three-year-old daughters in Park City, Utah. In a briefing, members of the arrest team outlined their goal to take Gigena into custody while ensuring the safety of his children and others.

    According to evidence and testimony presented at trial, as Gigena walked down a parking lot, two task force officers with the USMS were tasked with apprehending Gigena and securing the children. However, security concerns hastened law enforcement’s approach, which resulted in officers charging at and tackling Gigena. During the tackle, one of the officers pushed Gigena’s hands away from the two young girls. As this officer and Gigena fell to the ground Gigena placed his arm around the officer’s neck and started to strangle him. The officer testified in court that Gigena applied maximum force to his neck. Other officers on scene called out “police” and told Gigena to stop. Meanwhile, additional agents arrived on scene in vehicles that had flashing red and blue lights. These additional officers also assisted in taking control of Gigena. At one point, another officer displayed and threatened the use of a taser to get Gigena to comply. Another officer gained control of Gigena’s arm and removed it from the officer’s neck. Officers testified that Gigena never relented his assault or resistance of law enforcement until he was forced to do so.

    According to witness testimony, Gigena made multiple statements about being the “chief of the Indian people” and that they were not allowed to arrest him. Gigena was taken into custody soon after the assault.

    “His resistance was aimed at injuring the officer,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew Yeates during closing arguments. “Despite multiple warnings, despite multiple commands, the defendant fought to the bitter end until he was finally placed in handcuffs.”

    Gigena’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 1, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in courtroom 8.3 before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Ted Stewart at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City. 

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti of the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Sam Pead and J. Drew Yeates of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Transnational Repression Operation

    Source: Government of Canada News

    As part of its mandate to monitor the digital information ecosystem during the general election, the Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections (SITE) Task Force has observed a transnational repression (TNR) operation targeting the 45th general election.

    Sample Images

    These are just some examples among many. It is important for the SITE Task Force to avoid amplifying this type of transnational repression campaign any further. 

    Background

    In December 2024, Hong Kong Police announced they would provide monetary rewards for information that would lead to the arrest of six individuals living overseas, including two Canadians.

    The decision by Hong Kong to issue international bounties and cancel the passports of democracy activists and former Hong Kong lawmakers, is deplorable. This attempt by Hong Kong authorities to conduct TNR“>TNR abroad, including by issuing threats, intimidation or coercion against Canadians or those in Canada, will not be tolerated. 

    One of the six individuals targeted by Hong Kong is Joe Tay, Conservative Party candidate for Don Valley North,

    and known for his opposition to PRC“>PRC laws and practices in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

    The People’s Republic of China (PRC), including Mainland China and Hong Kong, uses a variety of tactics to carry out TNR activities. It exploits PRC-based family members to pressure those in Canada to cease certain activities the PRC views as hostile, or to return to the PRC. It also threatens PRC-based family members with a range of potential coercive actions, including detention or financial penalties. The PRC also leverages overseas actors to monitor, surveil and report on others in Canada.

    To support its TNR activities, the PRC uses its diplomatic missions, PRC-linked organizations affiliated with the United Front Work Department, community organizations and influential community leaders, among others.

    About transnational repression

    Transnational Repression (TNR) takes place when foreign governments reach beyond their state borders to advance their interests or silence criticism and dissent using intimidation, threats or violence, often against diaspora and exile communities.

    TNR activities typically target political dissidents, human rights and democracy defenders, and religious and ethnic minority groups. But TNR also increasingly targets the people and organizations that defend the victims. This can include activists, international students and scholars, lawyers and doctors, as well as journalists.

    Hostile state actors will use a variety of tactics to extend their reach into Canada:

    • Physical intimidation and violence: Monitoring and surveillance, vandalism, threats, abduction, assault, or attempted murder. Actors can use coercion or assault as punishment or to influence opinion, and hostile state actors sometimes hire organized crime groups or proxies for this.
    • Threats against overseas relatives and other connections: Threats against relatives and partners in the home country, to relay messages or force an action in Canada. This creates a sense of vulnerability, as close relations abroad may be victim to the laws and regulations of a non-democratic country.
    • Legal manipulation: Foreign states abusing legal mechanisms for coercive purposes, like libel suits, extraditions agreements, bounties for information on individuals, Interpol Red Notices, imposing sanctions, and refusing visa applications for personal or professional travel.
    • Community ostracism: Rejection from community associations, use of labels such as ‘extremist’ or ‘traitor’, or loss of access to social events and employment opportunities.
    • Malicious Digital Activity: Hacking, cyberbullying, targeted deepfakes, online defamation and disinformation, doxxing, or threatening online messages.

    Impact

    TNR causes harm both to the victims and the community.

    • At the individual level, there is a profound psychological impact on victims who experience TNR. They might experience fear, anxiety, and stress due to the continuous surveillance and harassment they face. In fact, just knowing that a foreign government can monitor their activities or harm their families can lead many victims of TNR to self-censor or withdraw from public life.
    • At the community level, TNR creates mistrust and division. Targeted communities may become fragmented as individuals fear infiltration by foreign agents or retaliation for associating with activists.

    Transnational Repression Operation

    During the writ period, SITE has observed two significant trends related to Mr. Tay across multiple social media platforms.

    1.  Inauthentic and coordinated amplification of content related to the bounty and arrest warrant against Mr. Tay, as well as content related to his competence for political office.

      The SITE Task Force has seen that multiple accounts or platforms published or interacted with content at similar times and dates – sometimes within minutes or even seconds of each other. This creates an increased volume of content, making it more likely that users of these platforms are exposed to the amplified narratives.

    2.  Deliberate suppression of search results, or “keyword filtering” censoring Mr. Tay’s name in simplified and traditional Chinese on platforms based in the PRC.

      The SITE Task Force is observing deliberate efforts to suppress any new content about Mr. Tay, and when users search his name, the search engine only returns information about the bounty.

    This is not about a single incident with high levels of engagement. It is a series of deliberate and persistent activity across multiple platforms – those in which Chinese-speaking users in Canada are active, including: Facebook, WeChat, TikTok, RedNote, and Douyin, a sister-app of TikTok for the Chinese market.

    Overall engagement levels since December 2024 have been low, with an increase at various points during the writ period. The combined instances, inauthentic and coordinated amplification across multiple platforms, and the concerning trend of deliberate search suppression on platforms frequented by Canadians, have led us to determine that voters need to be aware.

    It is clear that this was a deliberate attempt to amplify inauthentic content. However, at least until this point, that content has not generated much traction.

    Reporting transnational repression

    If you are in immediate danger, always call 9-1-1.

    1. Take a record of events:
      As soon as it is safe, write down or record the situation as precisely as possible. Include descriptive details about the person, date and time, location, other witnesses, and event. For instance: Did it happen in-person? Was it a phone call? An email? Any security cameras or witnesses nearby?
    2. Report it:
      Contact your local police, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) or the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS). Clearly articulate why you believe you are being targeted and mention that you believe this is transnational repression.

    Even if the piece of information provided may not on its own be something that meets a criminal threshold, it may be a building block that helps police to identify threats, support a larger police response, or even contribute to another ongoing investigation.

    When the matter concerns your vote, you can also reach out to the Office of the Commissioner of Canada Elections, and the SITE Task Force. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Guarding moral values: GUU took part in organizing a thematic forum

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The team of the Department of Youth Policy and Educational Work of the State University of Management took part in organizing the forum “School of Information and Spiritual Security”.

    The goal of the forum is to develop a methodology for creating popular media content in the area of preserving traditional spiritual and moral values, fostering religious culture, patriotism and all-Russian civic identity, taking into account the experience of young people.

    Speakers at the Forum included the Chairman of the All-Russian Interethnic Union of Youth, Director of the Scientific, Methodological and Project Center for Strengthening Interethnic Friendship and Citizenship of the State University of Management Kantemir Khurtayev, expert of the Council for Interethnic Relations under the President of the Russian Federation Alexey Vaits, expert of the State Duma Committee on Nationalities Anna Bakaeva, head of the Department of Educational and Cultural Work of the Department of Youth Policy and Educational Work of the State University of Management Alexandra Kobylyanskaya and others.

    The event was attended by 50 people: opinion leaders, activists of youth national communities and regional associations, as well as interethnic student associations of Moscow universities, representatives of the Central Asian republics and the republics of the North Caucasus Federal District, bloggers and residents of the Center for New Media.

    Participants had the opportunity to analyze effective methods and tools for preserving traditional Russian spiritual and moral values, get acquainted with the key principles of forming religious culture, and improve their skills in creating popular content based on modern methods of conveying values. The leisure part included a screening and discussion of the film “Paradise Under the Feet of Mothers” and a house concert.

    The organizers were the All-Russian public movement for promoting friendship and harmony among young people “All-Russian Interethnic Union of Youth”, the Centralized religious organization “International Islamic Mission” and the Scientific, Methodological and Project Center for Strengthening Interethnic Friendship and Citizenship of the State University of Management under the Coordination Council of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia with the assistance of the Fund for the Support of Islamic Culture, Science and Education.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 21.04.2025

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: BYDFi Lists EPT/USDT Trading Pair — Trade and Win a Share of the $5,000 Prize Pool

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEYCHELLES, East Africa, April 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global crypto exchange BYDFi has officially listed Balance’s native token, $EPT, opening spot trading for the EPT/USDT pair. To celebrate the launch, BYDFi is offering a $5,000 prize pool, available for a limited time to all users who participate in EPT trading.

    $EPT: The Core Engine of the Balance Ecosystem

    $EPT is the native token of the Balance platform and plays a central role in powering the ecosystem. With a total supply of 10 billion, it drives core functions such as trading incentives, liquidity provision, and application development.

    Balance, the infrastructure behind $EPT, originated from E-PAL, formerly the world’s largest gaming companion platform. Today, it serves over 4.2 million users and 450,000 active Epals. By integrating AI and blockchain, Balance is redefining Web3 interactions through immersive, decentralized digital experiences.

    In September 2024, Balance raised $30 million in funding from top-tier investors including a16z, Animoca Brands, and Galaxy Interactive, further accelerating its global growth and ecosystem expansion.

    Multi-Promotion Campaign Now Live on BYDFi

    To coincide with the EPT listing, BYDFi is kicking off several campaigns:

    More details are available on BYDFi’s official platform.

    About BYDFi

    Founded in 2020, BYDFi has been named one of Forbes’ Top 10 Global Crypto Exchanges and is officially listed on CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko. Serving users in 190+ countries, the platform is trusted by over 1,000,000 users worldwide.

    BYDFi holds multiple MSB licenses, is a member of Korea’s CodeVASP alliance, and regularly publishes Proof of Reserves (POR) to ensure transparency and trust. BUIDL Your Dream Finance

    • Website: https://www.bydfi.com
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Launches Second Edition of Walk-a-thon India, Three Lucky Winners to Get Galaxy Watch Ultra

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the launch of the second edition of ‘Walk-a-thon India’, a campaign designed to bolster the spirit of health and fitness in the country.
     
    Starting today, users can participate in the challenge and track their daily step count for a period of one month until May 20, 2025 via the Samsung Health app. All users who complete 200,000 steps during this period will be eligible for prizes.  Three lucky winners will get Galaxy Watch Ultra while all others who complete 200,000+ steps will get 25% discount on Galaxy Watch Ultra.
     
    The second edition of ‘Walk-a-thon India’ builds on the tremendous response received during the first chapter held in February 2025, which saw over 100,000 entries from enthusiastic participants across the country.
     
    The 30-day steps challenge will be hosted exclusively on the Samsung Health app, which is available on Samsung Galaxy smartphones. Participants can monitor their progress through a real-time leaderboard within the Samsung Health app, allowing them to compare their performance and stay motivated throughout the challenge. To qualify and be eligible for prizes, participants are required to complete a minimum of 200,000 steps over the 30-day duration. After completing the challenge, the finishers need to visit the Samsung Members app between May 26 and June 15, 2025 to claim their prize.
     
    Samsung Health App
    Samsung Health is a global wellness platform that allows users to track a wide range of health metrics including steps, exercise, calorie intake, blood pressure, ECG, and sleep patterns. The app is designed to promote healthy living and is compatible exclusively with Samsung Galaxy smartphones. With seamless integration and user-friendly features, the app empowers users to maintain and improve their overall well-being.
     
    Galaxy Watch Ultra
    Galaxy Watch Ultra, priced at INR 59999, boasts 10ATM water resistance, an IP68 rating for dust and water protection, and is built to military-grade MIL-STD-810H standards, making it resilient in tough environments. The device delivers up to 100 hours of battery life in Power Saving mode, offering long-lasting performance. It is equipped with Samsung’s cutting-edge BioActive Sensor, which supports on-demand ECG recording and Heart Rate Alerts to detect irregular heart activity. Galaxy Watch Ultra also comes with Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification (IHRN) feature.
     
    Users can participate in the challenge by registering for the Walk-a-thon India challenge on Samsung Health App.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ASEAN, China strengthen commitment to advancing comprehensive strategic partnership

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    JAKARTA, 21 April 2025 – ASEAN and China reaffirmed their shared commitment to further advancing the ASEAN-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) at the 26th Meeting of the ASEAN-China Joint Cooperation Committee (ACJCC), held today at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat.
     
    China reaffirmed its steadfast support for ASEAN Community-building efforts and ASEAN’s central role in regional affairs. China also underscored ASEAN as a key priority on China’s neighbourhood diplomacy.
     
    During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on recent developments in ASEAN and China, and reviewed the progress of ASEAN-China CSP over the past year. Notable progress has been made in the final year of the implementation of the ASEAN-China Plan of Action (POA) 2021-2025 and its Annex to advance the CSP.
     
    Under the framework of the existing POA, ASEAN and China continued to strengthen cooperation across a wide range of areas such as non-traditional security, trade and investment, science and technology, green economy, digital ecosystems, agriculture and food security, clean energy, tourism, education, public health, culture, and disaster management.
     
    Under the ASEAN-China Year of People-to-People Exchanges 2025, both sides looked forward to various projects and activities to be conducted, to implement the ASEAN-China Joint Statement on Deepening Cooperation in People-to-People Exchanges adopted last year.
     
    The two sides also discussed other deliverables of ASEAN-China cooperation this year, including, among others, the expected signing of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA) 3.0 upgrade, the establishment of the ASEAN-China Tourism Ministers meeting, and the adoption of a new POA (2026-2030) to further advance the ASEAN-China CSP and contribute to the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
     
    China also put forward proposals for enhancing cooperation with ASEAN in maritime cooperation, artificial intelligence, transport, blue economy, women and children health, and environment.
     
    The Meeting was co-chaired by Permanent Representative of Malaysia to ASEAN, H.E. Sarah Al Bakri Devadason, and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to ASEAN, H.E. Hou Yanqi, and attended by Permanent Representatives of ASEAN Member States and representatives of the ASEAN Secretariat. Timor-Leste attended as Observer.
     
    *******
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Political-Security Community meets with the United States’ Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs/Acting U.S. SOM Leader

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Political-Security Community, Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz, today met with the Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs of the United States Department of State/Acting United States Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) Leader, Sean O’Neill, at the sidelines of the 37th ASEAN-United States Dialogue in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Both sides exchanged views on ways to further advance the ASEAN-United States Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and touched upon regional and international issues of common interest and concern.

    Photo credit: United States Department of State
    The post Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Political-Security Community meets with the United States’ Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs/Acting U.S. SOM Leader appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Week at State: Week of April 16, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    In The Week at State with Spokesperson Tammy Bruce: Secretary Rubio joined President Trump’s meeting with Salvadoran President Bukele and went to Paris for talks on ending the Russia-Ukraine war. The Secretary met with Jordanian and Indonesian officials and also directed the cancellation of $214 million in misguided programs.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa6r0JMa0CY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Amendments to Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) Framework

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank issued a draft circular on July 25, 2024 on ‘Basel III Framework on Liquidity Standards – Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) – Review of Haircuts on High Quality Liquid Assets (HQLA) and Run-off Rates on Certain Categories of Deposits’. The draft circular proposed certain amendments to the LCR framework and invited comments from banks and stakeholders.

    2. The feedback received has been carefully examined and the final guidelines have been issued by the Reserve Bank today. With the issuance of these guidelines, a bank shall:

    • assign additional run-off rates of 2.5 per cent to internet and mobile banking enabled retail and small business customer deposits.

    • adjust the market value of Government Securities (Level 1 HQLA) with haircuts in line with margin requirements under the Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) and Marginal Standing Facility (MSF).

    3. In addition, the final guidelines also rationalise the composition of wholesale funding from ‘other legal entities’. Consequently, funding from non-financial entities like trusts (educational, charitable and religious), partnerships, LLPs, etc. shall attract a lower run-off rate of 40 per cent as against 100 per cent currently.

    4. The Reserve Bank has undertaken an impact analysis of the above measures based on data submitted by banks, as on December 31, 2024. It is estimated that the net impact of these measures will improve the LCR of banks, at the aggregate level, by around 6 percentage points as on that date. Further, all the banks would continue to meet the minimum regulatory LCR requirements comfortably. Reserve Bank is sanguine that these measures will enhance the liquidity resilience of banks in India, and further align the guidelines with the global standards in a non-disruptive manner.

    5. To give the banks adequate time to transition their systems to the new standards for LCR computation, the revised instructions shall become applicable w.e.f. April 01, 2026.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/145

    MIL OSI Economics –