Category: Asia

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Plastic Parks in India

Source: Government of India

Plastic Parks in India

Accelerating Growth of the Polymer-Based Industrial Ecosystem

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 1:03PM by PIB Delhi

Introduction

The Department of Chemicals and Petro-Chemicals is implementing the Scheme for Setting up of Plastic Parks under the umbrella scheme of New Scheme of Petrochemicals, to support setting up need-based Plastic Parks, with requisite state-of-the-art infrastructure, enabling common facilities through cluster development approach, to consolidate the capacities of the domestic downstream plastic processing industry. The objective is to consolidate and synergize the capacities of downstream plastic processing industry to help increase investment, production and export in the sector as well as generate employment. Under the scheme, the government of India provides grant funding up to 50% of the project cost subject to a ceiling of Rs.40 crore per project.

A plastic park is an industrial zone specifically designed for plastic-related businesses and industries. It aims to consolidate and synergize the capacities of the plastic processing industry, promoting investment, production, and exports while generating employment. These parks also focus on achieving environmentally sustainable growth through waste management and recycling initiatives.

Plastic Parks have emerged as an integral part of India’s strategy for managing plastic waste, promoting recycling, and supporting the chemical industry. 10 Plastic Parks have been approved so far in different States. Details of funds released to these Plastic Parks during the last five years are:

Plastic Park Location	Approval Year	Total Project Cost (₹ crore)	Approved Grant-in-aid (₹ crore)	Amount Released (₹ crore)
Tamot, Madhya Pradesh	2013	108.00	40.00	36.00
Jagatsinghpur, Odisha	2013	106.78	40.00	36.00
Tinsukia, Assam	2014	93.65	40.00	35.73
Bilaua, Madhya Pradesh	2018	68.72	34.36	30.92
Deoghar, Jharkhand	2018	67.33	33.67	30.30
Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu	2019	216.92	40.00	22.00
Sitarganj, Uttarakhand	2020	67.73	33.93	30.51
Raipur, Chhattisgarh	2021	42.09	21.04	11.57
Ganjimutt, Karnataka	2022	62.77	31.38	6.28
Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh	2022	69.58	34.79	19.13

Background and Objectives

India stands 12^th in the world export of plastics, as per the 2022 World Bank estimates. It has grown exponentially from 2014, when it was worth just 8.2 million thousand USD, as compared to the 2022 estimates, where it reached 27 million thousand USD. This growth has been a result of the constant efforts by the Indian government to promote the production and export of plastics, like setting up Plastic Parks.

The Indian plastics industry was large but highly fragmented with dominance of tiny, small and medium units and thus lacks the capacity to tap this opportunity. The Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals formulated this scheme with a view to synergize and consolidate the capacities through cluster development and enhance India’s plastic production and export capabilities. The scheme has the following objectives:

Increase the competitiveness, polymer absorption capacity and value addition in the domestic downstream plastic processing industry through adaptation of modern, research and development led measurers.
Increase investments in the sector through additions in capacity and production, creating quality infrastructure and other facilitation to ensure value addition and increase in exports.
Achieve environmentally sustainable growth through innovative methods of waste management, recycling, etc.
Adopt a cluster development approach to achieve the above objectives owing to its benefits arising due to optimization of resources and economies of scale.

Process of setting up a Plastic Park

For the purpose of setting up Plastic Parks, the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals seeks preliminary proposals from state governments, highlighting the proposed location, financial details, broad cost estimates etc. Following in-principle approval from the Scheme Steering Committee, the State implementing agency is required to submit a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to the Department, which is evaluated and final approval is given by the Scheme Steering Committee based on the viability of the proposed project.

For example, in November, 2020, the Department invited proposals from the state governments for establishing two new Plastic Parks. Proposals were received from the state governments of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh (02 proposals), Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh. These were examined by an Expert Committee, based on which the setting up of Plastic Parks at Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, and at Ganjimutt, Karnataka, was approved in July, 2022 and January, 2022 respectively.

The Government provides grants-in-aid for the establishment of the Plastic Parks. The implementation of these projects as well as the process of getting them populated by industrial units is largely in the hands of the Special Purpose Vehicles set up by the State Government or State Industrial Development Corporation or their agencies. The respective States have taken several steps to promote private sector participation in these Plastic Parks, including conducting awareness and sensitization programmes for the industry, providing plots at competitive rates, giving tax incentives etc.

Under the Scheme, common infrastructure for the sustainability and eco-friendliness of industrial units is provided including effluent treatment plant, solid/ hazardous waste management, facilities for plastic recycling, incinerator etc. Some of the Plastic Parks have also established in-house recycling sheds for recycling of plastic waste.

Other Government Initiatives for promoting Plastic Production in India

The other initiatives taken by the Government to enhance plastics processing are:

Centres of Excellence (CoE): To promote the research and development in polymer and plastics the department has established 13 Centres of Excellence in various national level institutes.

Location of the Centre of Excellence (CoE)	Title of Centre of Excellence	Date of Approval
National Chemical Laboratory, Pune	Sustainable Polymer Industry to Research & Innovation	15.04.2011
Central Institute of Plastic Engineering & Technology (CIPET), Chennai	Green Transport Network (GREET)	01.04.2011
CIPET, Bhubaneswar	Sustainable Green Materials	06.04.2013
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi	Advanced Polymeric Materials	15.03.2013
IIT, Guwahati	Sustainable Polymers (Sus-Pol)	April 2013
IIT, Roorkee	Process Development, Wastewater Management in Petrochemical Industries	12.02.2019
CIPET, Bhubaneswar	Bio-engineered Sustainable Polymeric Systems	12.02.2019
National Chemical Laboratory, Pune	Specialty Polymers for Customized Applications	12.02.2019
CSIR – North East Institute of Science & Technology (CSIR-NEIST)	Polymers, Their Composites and Polymeric Membranes for Sustainable Development of Petroleum Industries	04.12.2020
CSIR-IICT, Hyderabad	Polymer Coatings for Decorative, Protective and Strategic Applications	04.12.2020
CIPET, Bhubaneswar	Manufacturing of Next Generation Bio-Medical Devices	04.12.2020
IIT, Guwahati	Sustainable & Innovative Design and Manufacturing of Polymer-based Products	February 2022
IRMRA, Thane	Design and Development for Value added Toys of Rubber and Allied Finished Products	February 2022

These CoEs focus on various aspects such as sustainable polymers, advanced polymeric materials, bio-engineered systems, and process development for wastewater management in petrochemical industries. They aim to drive innovation, improve technology, and promote environmentally sustainable development within the sector.

Skilling of Workforce: Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology is conducting many short term and long-term courses in Plastics processing and Technology to cater to the skilling requirement of the industry.

Indian Plastic Industry and Environment Sustainability

The Government of India has taken several steps to ensure that the development of the plastic industry is environmentally sustainable and aligned with global sustainability standards.

The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations for plastic packaging mandate targets for minimum level of reuse, recycling and use of recycled content. This ensures accountability for waste collection, recycling, and reuse. Certain single-use plastics have been banned, with a focus on reducing plastic waste. The regulations also mandate to utilize minimum amount of recycled material in packaging products.
The Hazardous Waste Management Rules seek to ensure proper disposal of hazardous chemicals and promote waste minimization and resource recovery.
The Government promotes the adoption of circular economy principles in the plastic industry, including recycling and the use of biodegradable alternatives. In order to promote the latest technologies and products for circular economy, the Department supports and encourages industry in organizing discussions and exhibitions to showcase the latest technologies and machinery for waste management, recycling and up-cycling as well as the innovative products made from recycled material.
India engages with international organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to enable compliance with global sustainability standards. Further, India actively participates in meetings of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) which formulates international standards for plastic products.

Conclusion

The Plastic Parks scheme, under the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, represents a comprehensive and forward-looking initiative that addresses both the industrial growth and environmental sustainability of the Indian plastics sector. By providing state-of-the-art infrastructure, fostering cluster-based development, and encouraging private sector participation, the scheme not only strengthens India’s downstream plastic processing capabilities but also attracts investment, boosts exports, and generates employment. As India continues to rise in global plastic trade rankings, the Plastic Parks scheme and allied measures will remain crucial to ensuring that this growth is sustainable, inclusive, and innovation-driven.

References

https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU5708_ToUfDC.pdf?source=pqals

https://chemicals.gov.in/plastic-park-scheme

https://chemicals.gov.in/sites/default/files/plastic_park_doc/FPP260613.pdf

https://wits.worldbank.org/CountryProfile/en/Country/WLD/Year/LTST/TradeFlow/Export/Partner/by-country/Product/39-40_PlastiRub

https://wits.worldbank.org/CountryProfile/en/Country/IND/Year/2014/TradeFlow/EXPIMP/Partner/WLD/Product/All-Groups

https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/183/AU3054_q0N7Gr.pdf?source=pqals

https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/1712/AU2634.pdf?source=pqals

https://chemicals.gov.in/centre-excellence

https://sansad.in/getFile/annex/266/AU2424_X8QRU6.pdf?source=pqars

Kindly find the pdf file

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Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Rishita Aggarwal

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi,Uttar Pradesh

Source: Government of India

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi,Uttar Pradesh

In the last 10 years, the development of Banaras has gained a new momentum: PM

Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule ji worked throughout their lives for the welfare of women empowerment, their self-confidence and the welfare of the society: PM

Banas Dairy has changed both the image and destiny of thousands of families in Kashi: PM

Kashi is now becoming the capital of Good Health: PM

Today, whoever goes to Kashi, praises its infrastructure and facilities: PM

India today is carrying forward both development and heritage together, Our Kashi is becoming the best model for this: PM

Uttar Pradesh is no longer just a land of possibilities but of competence and accomplishments!: PM

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 12:56PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated various development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore today in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted his deep connection to Kashi, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the people of his family and the region for the blessings and acknowledged the love and support that has been extended to him. He emphasized his indebtedness to this love, stating that Kashi is his, and he belongs to Kashi. Noting that tomorrow is the auspicious occasion of Hanuman Janmotsav, Shri Modi expressed his honor at having the opportunity to visit Sankat Mochan Maharaj in Kashi. He highlighted how, ahead of Hanuman Janmotsav, the people of Kashi have gathered together to celebrate the festival of development.

“In the last 10 years, the development of Banaras has gained a new momentum”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, adding that Kashi has embraced modernity, preserved its heritage, and adopted a bright future. He remarked that Kashi is no longer just ancient but also progressive, now positioned at the center of Purvanchal’s economic map. He further noted that the Kashi guided by Lord Mahadev himself is now driving the chariot of Purvanchal’s development.

Mentioning the inauguration and foundation laying of numerous projects connected to Kashi and various parts of Purvanchal earlier in the event, Shri Modi emphasized the strengthening of connectivity through infrastructure projects, the campaign to provide tap water to every household, and the expansion of education, health, and sports facilities. He remarked on the commitment to provide better amenities to every region, family, and youth, stating that these initiatives will serve as milestones in transforming Purvanchal into a developed region. He noted that every resident of Kashi will benefit greatly from these schemes and extended congratulations to the people of Banaras and Purvanchal for these development efforts.

The Prime Minister marked the occasion of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule’s birth anniversary today, recognizing his and Savitribai Phule’s lifelong dedication to the welfare of society and the empowerment of women. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to advance their vision and commitment to women’s empowerment. He further stated that their Government treads on the mantra of ‘Sabka saath, Sabka Vikas’. He extended congratulations to the livestock-rearing families of Purvanchal, particularly the hardworking women, who have set a new example for the region. He remarked that trust, when placed in these women, has created history. The Prime Minister noted the distribution of bonuses to livestock-rearing families associated with Uttar Pradesh’s Banas Dairy Plant. He emphasized that this bonus, exceeding ₹100 crore, is not a gift but a reward for their hard work and dedication, reflecting the value of their labor and perseverance.

Emphasising the transformative impact of Banas Dairy in Kashi, which has reshaped the lives and destinies of thousands of families, Shri Modi highlighted how the dairy has rewarded hard work and given wings to aspirations. He proudly noted that the efforts have enabled many women in Purvanchal to become “Lakhpati Didis,” transitioning from concerns of sustenance to a path of prosperity. He remarked that this progress is evident not only in Banaras and Uttar Pradesh but across the country. “India has become the largest milk producer globally, with a nearly 65% increase in milk production over the past decade”, he highlighted, attributing this success to millions of farmers and livestock owners, recognizing that such achievements are the result of continuous efforts over the last ten years. He pointed out the initiatives undertaken to advance the dairy sector in mission mode, including linking livestock owners to Kisan Credit Card facilities, increasing loan limits, and introducing subsidy programs. The Prime Minister also mentioned the free vaccination program against Foot and Mouth Disease to protect livestock, as well as efforts to revive over 20,000 cooperative societies for organized milk collection, incorporating lakhs of new members. He underlined the focus on developing indigenous cattle breeds and improving their quality through scientific breeding under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission. These initiatives aim to connect livestock owners with new development pathways, better markets, and opportunities. He lauded the Banas Dairy complex in Kashi for advancing this vision across Purvanchal and noted that Banas Dairy has distributed Gir cows in the region, with their numbers steadily increasing, and has begun arrangements for animal feed in Banaras. He commended the dairy for collecting milk from nearly one lakh farmers in Purvanchal, empowering them and strengthening their livelihoods.

The Prime Minister mentioned the privilege of distributing Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards to several senior citizens. He highlighted the sense of satisfaction evident on their faces, calling it a testament to the scheme’s success. He acknowledged the concerns families have had for their elders’ healthcare and recalled the difficulties faced across Purvanchal 10-11 years ago regarding medical treatment. Noting the drastic improvements in the region, he stated “Kashi is now becoming a health capital”. He remarked that advanced hospitals, once limited to cities like Delhi and Mumbai, are now accessible near people’s homes. He emphasized that this is the essence of development—bringing facilities closer to the people.

Emphasising the significant strides made in healthcare over the past decade, not only increasing the number of hospitals but also enhancing the dignity of patients, Shri Modi highlighted the Ayushman Bharat scheme as a boon for the poor, providing not just treatment but also instilling confidence. He remarked that thousands in Varanasi and lakhs across Uttar Pradesh have benefited from the scheme, with every treatment, operation, and relief marking a new beginning in their lives. He further noted that the Ayushman Bharat scheme has saved crores of rupees for lakhs of families in Uttar Pradesh, as the government has taken responsibility for their healthcare. Recalling his promise of free treatment for senior citizens, which led to the launch of the Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme, the Prime Minister highlighted that this initiative ensures free treatment for every senior citizen above 70 years of age, regardless of their income. He remarked that Varanasi has issued the highest number of Vay Vandana cards, with nearly 50,000 cards distributed. He emphasized that this is not just a statistic but a commitment to service, eliminating the need for families to sell land, take loans, or face helplessness for medical treatment. He assured that with the Ayushman card, the government now bears the financial responsibility for their healthcare.

The Prime Minister highlighted the remarkable transformation of Kashi’s infrastructure and facilities, which have earned widespread praise from visitors. He noted that millions of people visit Banaras daily, offering prayers to Baba Vishwanath and bathing in the sacred Ganga, with many remarking on the city’s significant changes. He emphasized the challenges Kashi would have faced if its roads, railways, and airport had remained in the same condition as a decade ago. He recalled the traffic jams during small festivals, where travelers had to navigate through the entire city, enduring dust and heat. He remarked on the construction of the Phulwariya flyover, which has shortened distances, saved time, and brought relief to daily life. The Prime Minister also highlighted the benefits of the Ring Road, which has drastically reduced travel time for residents of rural areas in Jaunpur and Ghazipur, as well as those from Ballia, Mau, and Ghazipur districts heading to the airport, eliminating hours of traffic congestion.

Underlining the improved connectivity in the region which has led to faster and convenient travel to cities like Ghazipur, Jaunpur, Mirzapur, and Azamgarh with widened roads, Shri Modi remarked that areas once plagued by traffic jams are now witnessing the speed of development. He emphasized the investment of approximately ₹45,000 crore over the past decade in enhancing connectivity in Varanasi and surrounding regions. He stated that this investment has transformed not just infrastructure but also trust, benefiting Kashi and neighboring districts. He announced the expansion of infrastructure projects, including the foundation laying of projects worth thousands of crores. The Prime Minister highlighted the ongoing expansion of Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport and the construction of a six-lane underground tunnel near the airport to improve connectivity. He noted the initiation of projects connecting Bhadohi, Ghazipur, and Jaunpur, as well as the long-awaited construction of flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih. He expressed happiness over the fulfillment of these demands. He also announced the construction of a new bridge connecting Banaras city and Sarnath, which will eliminate the need for travelers from other districts to enter the city while heading to Sarnath.

The Prime Minister remarked that in the coming months, once the ongoing projects are completed, commuting in Banaras will become even more convenient, stressing that this progress will boost both speed and business activities in the region. He highlighted the enhanced ease for those visiting Banaras for livelihood and healthcare purposes. He also mentioned the commencement of the trial for the city ropeway in Kashi, which will position Banaras among the select cities globally to offer such a facility.

Underscoring that every development and infrastructure project in Varanasi benefits the youth of Purvanchal, Shri Modi highlighted the government’s focus on providing continuous opportunities for Kashi’s youth to excel in sports. He remarked on the construction of new stadiums in Banaras and the development of excellent facilities for young athletes. He noted the opening of a new sports complex, where hundreds of players from Varanasi are undergoing training. He also mentioned that participants in the MP Sports Competition have had the opportunity to showcase their talent on these grounds.

Emphasising India’s journey of balancing development and heritage, highlighting Kashi as the finest example of this model, the Prime Minister remarked on the flow of the Ganga and the consciousness of India, describing, “Kashi is the most beautiful representation of India’s soul and diversity”. He noted the unique culture in every neighborhood and the distinct colors of India visible in every lane of Kashi and expressed happiness over initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam, which continue to strengthen the threads of unity. He announced the upcoming Ekta Mall in Kashi, which will showcase India’s diversity under one roof, offering products from various districts across the country.

The Prime Minister highlighted the transformation in Uttar Pradesh over recent years, noting that the state has not only changed its economic landscape but also its outlook. He remarked that Uttar Pradesh is no longer just a land of possibilities but has become a land of capability and achievements. He stressed on the growing resonance of ‘Made in India’ globally, with Indian-made products now becoming global brands. He noted the recognition of several products with Geographical Indication (GI) tags, describing these tags as more than just labels—they are certificates of identity for the land. He remarked that GI tags signify that a product is a creation of its soil, and wherever GI tags reach, they open pathways to greater market success.

Underscoring Uttar Pradesh’s leading position in GI tagging across the country, Shri Modi mentioned the growing international recognition of the state’s art, crafts, and skills. He noted that over 30 products from Varanasi and its surrounding districts have received GI tags, describing them as a passport of identity for these items. He listed products from the region that have been recognized, such as Varanasi’s tabla, shehnai, wall paintings, thandai, stuffed red chili, red peda, and tiranga barfi. He also mentioned that products like Jaunpur’s imarti, Mathura’s sanjhi art, Bundelkhand’s kathiya wheat, Pilibhit’s flute, Prayagraj’s moonj art, Bareilly’s zardozi, Chitrakoot’s woodcraft, and Lakhimpur Kheri’s Tharu zardozi have recently been awarded GI tags. “The fragrance of Uttar Pradesh’s soil is now crossing borders, spreading its legacy far and wide”, he added.

Remarking that preserving Kashi means safeguarding the soul of India, the Prime Minister concluded by emphasising the collective commitment to continually empower Kashi and to keep it beautiful and connect its ancient spirit with a modern identity.

The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt Anandiben Patel, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath were present among others at the event.

Background

Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and inaugurated various development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi. In line with his commitment to infrastructure development, particularly enhancing road connectivity in Varanasi, he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various road projects in the region. Furthermore, he laid the foundation stone for a road bridge between Varanasi Ring Road and Sarnath, flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih crossings of the city and a highway underpass road tunnel on NH-31 at the Varanasi International Airport worth over Rs 980 crore.

Giving a boost to the electricity infrastructure, Prime Minister inaugurated two 400 KV and one 220 KV transmission substations and associated transmission lines of Jaunpur, Chandauli and Ghazipur districts of Varanasi division worth over Rs 1,045 crore. He also laid the foundation stone of a 220 KV transmission substation at Chaukaghat, Varanasi, a 132 KV transmission substation in Ghazipur and augmentation of the Varanasi city electricity distribution system worth over Rs 775 crore.

Prime Minister inaugurated a Transit Hostel at the Police Line and barracks at PAC Ramnagar Campus, to improve facilities for the security personnel. He also laid the foundation stone of new administrative buildings at various police stations and a residential hostel in Police Line.

In line with his vision to ensure education for all, Prime Minister inaugurated projects including a Government Polytechnic College at Pindra, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Government College at village Barki, 356 rural libraries and 100 Anganwadi centres also. He also laid the foundation stone for renovation of 77 primary school buildings under the Smart City Mission and the construction of a new building for Kasturba Gandhi School at Cholapur, Varanasi. Promoting sports infrastructure in the city, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a synthetic hockey turf with floodlights and spectator gallery at Uday Pratap College and a mini stadium at Shivpur.

Prime Minister also inaugurated the redevelopment of Samne Ghat and Shastri Ghat at Ganga river, 130 rural drinking water schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission worth over Rs 345 crore, improvement of six municipal wards of Varanasi and landscaping and sculpture installations at various sites of Varanasi.

Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for MSME Unity Mall for artisans, infrastructure development works of Transport Nagar Scheme at Mohansarai, 1 MW solar power plant at WTP Bhelupur, Community halls in 40 Gram panchayats and beautification of various parks in Varanasi.

Prime Minister presented Geographical Indication (GI) certificates to various local items and products including tabla, painting, thandai, tiranga barfi among others. He also transferred over Rs 105 crore bonus to milk suppliers of Uttar Pradesh associated with Banas Dairy.

काशी का तेजी से चहुंमुखी विकास हो रहा है। इसी कड़ी में आज विभिन्न विकास परियोजनाओं का लोकार्पण-शिलान्यास करना मेरे लिए सौभाग्य की बात है। https://t.co/6vY4qCCLYp

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 11, 2025

महात्मा ज्योतिबा फुले और सावित्री बाई फुले जी ने जीवन भर नारी शक्ति के हित, उनके आत्मविश्वास और समाज के कल्याण के लिए काम किया: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/m0hui2d0Xh

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 11, 2025

बनास डेयरी ने काशी में हज़ारों परिवारों की तस्वीर और तक़दीर दोनों बदल दी है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/5HQUZ3QFKn

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 11, 2025

आज काशी होकर जो भी जाता है, वो यहां के इंफ्रास्ट्रक्चर की, यहां की सुविधाओं की बहुत प्रशंसा करता है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/NrdX4SKeTd

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 11, 2025

भारत आज विकास और विरासत, दोनों को एक साथ लेकर चल रहा है। इसका सबसे बढ़िया मॉडल, हमारी काशी बन रही है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/2TP0127Taj

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 11, 2025

यूपी—अब सिर्फ संभावनाओं की धरती नहीं रहा… अब ये सामर्थ्य और सिद्धियों की संकल्पभूमि बन रहा है! pic.twitter.com/r3USa3qfLA

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 11, 2025

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Nominations for Padma Awards–2026 open till 31st July, 2025

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 12:53PM by PIB Delhi

Nominations/recommendations for the Padma Awards-2026 to be announced on the occasion of Republic Day, 2026 have started on 15^thMarch, 2025. The last date for nominations for Padma Awards is 31^stJuly, 2025. The nominations/recommendations for Padma Awards will only be received online on the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal (https://awards.gov.in ).

The Padma Awards, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, are amongst the highest civilian awards of the country. Instituted in 1954, these Awards are announced on the occasion of the Republic Day every year. The Award seeks to recognize ‘work of distinction’ and is given for distinguished and exceptional achievements/service in all fields/disciplines, such as Art, Literature and Education, Sports, Medicine, Social Work, Science and Engineering, Public Affairs, Civil Service, Trade and Industry etc. All persons without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex are eligible for these Awards. Government servants including those working with PSUs, except Doctors and Scientists, are not eligible for Padma Awards.

The Government is committed to transform Padma Awards into “People’s Padma”. All citizens are, therefore, requested to make nominations/recommendations, including self-nomination. Concerted efforts may be made to identify talented persons whose excellence and achievements really deserve to be recognized from amongst women, weaker sections of the society, SCs & STs, divyang persons and who are doing selfless service to the society.

The nominations/recommendations should contain all relevant details specified in the format available on the above said Portal, including a citation in narrative form (maximum 800 words), clearly bringing out the distinguished and exceptional achievements/service of the person recommended in her/his respective field/discipline.

Details in this regard are also available under the heading ‘Awards and Medals’ on the website of Ministry of Home Affairs (https://mha.gov.in) and on the Padma Awards Portal (https://padmaawards.gov.in). The statutes and rules relating to these awards are available on the website with the link https://padmaawards.gov.in/AboutAwards.aspx .

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Italy’s Minister of University and Research Ms Anna Maria Bernini calls on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh

Source: Government of India

Italy’s Minister of University and Research Ms Anna Maria Bernini calls on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh

The two Ministers discuss deepening collaboration in Quantum Technologies, AI, and Biotechnology

Dr Jitendra Singh recalls bilateral discussions between PM Modi and PM Meloni on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Brazil

India and Italy Sign MoU to Boost Cooperation in Science and Technology

Indo-Italian programme to include 10 research initiatives and 10 collaborative initiatives

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 3:25PM by PIB Delhi

In a significant move to enhance bilateral scientific cooperation, Italy’s Minister of University and Research, Ms. Anna Maria Bernini, currently on India visit, called on Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, Dept. of Space, Dept. of Atomic Energy met with Italy’s Minister of University and Research, Ms. Anna Maria Bernini, for a high-level meeting at North Block here.

The hallmark of the meeting was the signing of an MoU of cooperation by the two Ministers. The discussions between the two dignitaries centered on advancing joint initiatives in quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and other emerging sectors.

Dr. Jitendra Singh recalled the bilateral discussions between Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Brazil, which culminated in the announcement of a Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025–2029. The plan outlines a shared vision for collaborative innovation in science and technology.

As part of this vision, both nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation in the field of scientific research and agreed to implement the 2025–2027 Executive Programme for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, aimed at fostering collaboration in critical technologies like AI and digitalization.

Reaffirming India’s commitment to bilateral research, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the signing of the Indo-Italian Executive Programme of Cooperation (EPOC) for 2025–2027 on 10th April 2025 during the Joint Science & Technology Committee Meeting.Under the EPOC framework, both countries have successfully implemented over 150 joint research projects to date.

The current programme includes joint funding for 10 research mobility proposals and 10 significant collaborative research initiatives across a wide range of scientific disciplines.

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s robust progress in areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), High-Performance Computing (HPC), Big Data, and biotechnology. He noted that India’s strategic investments and policies are steering the nation toward becoming a global hub of emerging technologies.

Sharing key achievements, Dr. Jitendra Singh mentioned about India’s pioneering development of a DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine, which was later gifted to many countries in need.The development and launch of the HPV vaccine and Nafithromycin, an indigenous antibiotic for respiratory infections.The country’s first-ever gene therapy trial, which has been a success.The creation of a national genome data bank to support personalized medicine and public health research.

Dr. Jitendra Singh proudly referenced India’s vibrant startup ecosystem, now the third largest globally, with significant contributions from agro-biotech startups. Initiatives such as the Aroma Mission (also known as the Purple Revolution) exemplify innovation in agriculture and floriculture.

He also highlighted the impact of technology-driven schemes like the Soil Health Card and Swamitva Yojana, which have revolutionized agriculture through drone technology.

Reflecting India’s commitment to preserving ancient wisdom through modern science, Dr. Singh spoke of the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) — a unique initiative that digitizes and protects traditional Indian knowledge using cutting-edge technology.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, also the Minister of Earth Sciences, briefed the delegation about India’s ambitious Deep Ocean Mission, which aims to send an Indian submersible 6,000 meters deep into the ocean. The trial dive up to 500 meters is set to commence next year.

Both countries reiterated their commitment to long-standing cooperation in fields such as Infectious diseases, Quantum technologies, green hydrogen and renewable energy, Cultural heritage preservation technologies and Sustainable Blue Economy.

They also agreed to explore new collaborative areas such as Industry 4.0, Clean energy.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also identified other mutual sectors, including academic and industrial partnerships involving SMEs and startups from both nations.

Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology and Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology were also part of the high-level meet.

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April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 14 landlords of subdivided units under regulated tenancies convicted of contravening relevant statutory requirements

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Fourteen landlords of subdivided units (SDUs), who contravened Part IVA of the Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) Ordinance (Cap. 7) (the Ordinance), pleaded guilty and were fined a total of $49,200 today (April 11) at the Eastern Magistrates’ Courts. Since the Ordinance came into force, the Rating and Valuation Department (RVD) has all along strengthened enforcement actions and has prosecuted a total of 974 cases to date. Amongst the 649 cases dealt with by the court, all of them were successfully convicted, which involved a total of 557 SDU landlords with fines ranging from $400 to $34,800, amounting to a total of $1,579,910. In addition, 325 cases are pending hearing.

The offences of these 14 landlords include (1) failing to submit a Notice of Tenancy (Form AR2) to the Commissioner of Rating and Valuation within 60 days after the term of the regulated tenancy commenced; and (2) requesting the tenant to pay money other than the types permitted under the Ordinance (i.e. requiring the tenant to pay an amount of rent for the second-term tenancy exceeding the maximum amount of rent permitted under the Ordinance). One of the landlords committed 26 offences under (1) and (2) and was fined $22,800.

The RVD earlier discovered that the landlords failed to comply with the relevant requirements under the Ordinance. Upon an in-depth investigation and evidence collection, the RVD prosecuted against the landlords.

A spokesman for the RVD reiterated that SDU landlords must comply with the relevant requirements under the Ordinance, including prohibiting landlords from doing any act calculated to interfere with the peace or comfort of members of the tenant’s household, with the intention of causing the tenant to give up occupation of the SDU; or requiring the tenant to pay an amount of rent for the second-term tenancy exceeding the maximum amount of rent permitted under the Ordinance, and also reminded tenants of their rights under the Ordinance, including a four-year (i.e. two years plus two years) security of tenure. He also stressed that the RVD will continue to take resolute enforcement action against any contraventions of the Ordinance. Apart from following up on reported cases, the RVD has been adopting a multipronged approach to proactively identify, investigate and follow up on cases concerning landlords who are suspected of contravening the Ordinance. In particular, the RVD has been requiring landlords of regulated tenancies to provide information and reference documents of their tenancies for checking whether they have complied with the requirements of the Ordinance. If a landlord, without reasonable excuse, refuses to provide the relevant information or neglects the RVD’s request, the landlord commits an offence and is liable to a maximum fine at level 3 ($10,000) and to imprisonment for three months. Depending on the actual circumstances, and having regard to the information and evidence collected, the RVD will take appropriate actions on individual cases, including instigating prosecution against suspected contraventions of the Ordinance. In addition, the RVD has started a new round of publicity and education work to enhance public awareness about the key offences and penalties, emphasising that the RVD proactively checks whether landlords have committed the offences under the Ordinance.

To help curb illegal acts as soon as possible, members of the public should report to the RVD promptly any suspected cases of contravening the relevant requirements. Reporting can be made through the telephone hotline (2150 8303), by email (enquiries@rvd.gov.hk), by fax (2116 4920), by post (15/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon), or in person (visiting the Tenancy Services Section office of the RVD at Room 3816-22, 38/F, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, and please call 2150 8303 to make an appointment). Furthermore, the RVD has provided a form (Form AR4) (www.rvd.gov.hk/doc/en/forms/ar4.pdf) on its website to facilitate SDU tenants’ reporting to the RVD.

The RVD reminds that pursuant to the Ordinance, a regulated cycle of regulated tenancies is to comprise two consecutive regulated tenancies (i.e. the first-term tenancy and second-term tenancy) for an SDU, and the term of each regulated tenancy is two years. A tenant of a first-term tenancy for an SDU is entitled to be granted a second-term tenancy of the regulated cycle, thus enjoying a total of four years of security of tenure. The RVD has been issuing letters enclosing relevant information to the landlords and tenants concerned of regulated tenancies in batches, according to the expiry time of their first-term tenancies, to assist them in understanding the important matters pertaining to the second-term tenancy, and to remind them about the procedures that need to be followed about two months prior to the commencement of the purported second-term tenancy as well as their respective obligations and rights under the Ordinance. These landlords and tenants may also visit the dedicated page for the second-term tenancy on the RVD’s website (www.rvd.gov.hk/en/tenancy_matters/second_term_tenancy.html) for the relevant information, including a concise guide, brochures, tutorial videos and frequently asked questions. The landlords and tenants concerned are also advised to familiarise themselves with the relevant statutory requirements and maintain close communication regarding the second-term tenancy for handling the matters properly and in a timely manner according to the Ordinance.

For enquiries related to regulated tenancies, please call the telephone hotline (2150 8303) or visit the RVD’s webpage (www.rvd.gov.hk/en/our_services/part_iva.html) for the relevant information.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Study introduces a “toxicity standard” of ultrafine aerosol (PM2.5) pollution over Kolkata megacity

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 11 APR 2025 3:15PM by PIB Delhi

A new study conducted in Kolkata shows that the toxicity value of PM2.5 experiences a sudden jump when the pollution reaches around 70 µg m^-3.

PM 2.5, or particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller, is a significant air pollutant posing serious health risks, including respiratory and cardiovascular problems, and is a key indicator of air quality.

The Government of India has taken several initiatives and policy measures to combat air pollution and the latest is the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) launched in 2019 by the MoEFCC. The programme is focused on the reduction of particulate matter by 40 % by 2026 with respect to 2017 through strategies and action plans for 131 non-attainment cities (not attaining the National Ambient Air Quality Standard of India) in India for different states. Kolkata has been identified as one of such cities in India.

Bose Institute, an autonomous research institute under Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of India which has been given the responsibility to act as the Nodal Institute to work towards the mitigation of air pollution over this city and also to act as a national knowledge partner under the NCAP, studied the toxicity of atmospheric aerosols over the atmosphere of Kolkata.

Prof. Abhijit Chatterjee and his former Ph.D students Dr. Abhinandan Ghosh and Dr. Monami Dutta also explored how the degree of the toxicity changes with the increase in total aerosol pollution load and have studied the oxidative potential (OP) of ultrafine aerosols (PM2.5) or the potential of forming the reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are introduced to the human lung cells via inhalation of particles. The enhanced presence of the reactive oxidative species makes the natural antioxidants of human cells incapable of counteracting, leading to oxidative stress in cells.

The team led by Prof Chatterjee has shown that there is a non-linear relationship between the PM2.5 pollution load and its toxicity (OP). Up to the PM2.5 pollution load of around 70 µg m^-3, the toxicity remains unchanged. With the increase in PM2.5, the OP values show a jump and sudden rise till the PM2.5 pollution reaches at around 130 µg m^-3. With the further increase in PM2.5 load exceeding 130 µg m^-3, OP values do not change much.

Fig: The relationship between PM2.5 and its oxidative potential over Kolkata and various sources involved for high pollution load and toxicity.

They have conducted source apportionment of PM2.5 with the help of a source-receptor statistical model (Positive Matrix Factorization) and revealed that biomass/solid waste burning is the key source of PM2.5 that is enhancing the toxicity of ultrafine aerosols over Kolkata.

They have also observed that while the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) has been effective in reducing and curbing various air pollution sources like road-dust, constructional/demolition dust, vehicular exhaust, industrial emissions etc. However, biomass/solid waste burning could not be kept under good control. The particles emitted from this particular source are accelerating the toxicity.

The study has introduced a “toxicity standard” of PM 2.5 for this city and the value is around 70 µg m^-3. This implies that policies, strategies and control measures should be taken to keep PM2.5 pollution within this limit of around 70 µg m^-3, because once the PM2.5 load exceeds this value, the toxicity (OP) starts to increase rapidly and goes beyond control.

The study published in the journal Science of The Total Environment has helped urban local bodies in Kolkata to take action, carry out strict surveillance over biomass/waste burning as well as take stringent action. This has been reflected in the air quality of Kolkata in last winter (November 2024-February 2025).

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April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy holds meeting in Hong Kong (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy holds meeting in Hong Kong
In the morning, the delegation of the HKSAR Government accompanied the delegation of the Shenzhen Government to visit the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (Hetao Hong Kong Park). They were briefed by representatives of the Civil Engineering and Development Department and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited on the planning, design and construction work of the Park, and toured the newly completed talent accommodation building therein.

At the afternoon meeting, the HKSAR Government presented the achievements made in taking forward the development of the Northern Metropolis in the past year, including the development proposals for Ngau Tam Mei, the New Territories North New Town and Ma Tso Lung announced at the end of last year; and an earlier invitation for submissions of expressions of interest on three large-scale land disposal pilot areas. The HKSAR Government also introduced the Development Outline for the Hetao Hong Kong Park promulgated in November last year, which clearly sets out the major development directions, strategy and targets of the Park. Both sides also exchanged views on the planning progress for the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai), the implementation of the Wutong Mountain (Shenzhen)-Robin’s Nest (Hong Kong) Ecological Corridor and the planning and development of Hong Kong-Shenzhen control points.
Officials of the HKSAR Government attending the meeting today included the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn; the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang Kwok-wai; the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan; the Permanent Secretary for Development (Planning and Lands), Ms Doris Ho; the Permanent Secretary for Education, Ms Michelle Li; the Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong; the Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Ms Lillian Cheong, as well as the heads of relevant departments.
Issued at HKT 16:50

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April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS VISITS MADINAH TO REVIEW PREPARATIONS MADE FOR INDIAN PILGRIMS

Source: Government of India

SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS VISITS MADINAH TO REVIEW PREPARATIONS MADE FOR INDIAN PILGRIMS

SECRETARY MEETS SAUDI VICE MINISTER OF HAJ AND UMRAH

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 9:15PM by PIB Delhi

Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, visited the city of Madinah to review Haj arrangements for Indian pilgrims who will undertake the pilgrimage this year.

Dr. Kumar also had a meeting with Dr. Abdul Fattah Al Mashat, Hon’ble Vice Minister of Haj & Umrah, Saudi Arabia in Jeddah. Productive bilateral discussions were held in the meeting regarding preparations for Haj this year.

The Saudi side assured full support for the care and comfort of Indian pilgrims.

In a post on ‘X’, of the Ministry of Minority Affairs it was stated that “The Government of India remains committed to ensuring the safety, comfort, and well-being of all Hajis.”

Government of India Secretary for Ministry of Minority Affairs, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar today visited #Madinah to review #haj arrangements for Indian pilgrims. The Government of India remains committed to ensuring the safety, comfort, and well-being of all Hajis.#Haj2025… pic.twitter.com/inAoJzIFlQ

— Ministry of Minority Affairs (@MOMAIndia) April 10, 2025

Ministry of Minority Affairs, GoI, Secretary Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, met H.E. Dr. Abdul Fattah Al Mashat, Hon’ble Vice Minister of Haj & Umrah, KSA, in Jeddah. Productive bilateral discussions held on #Haj2025 preparations.
The Saudi side assured full support for Indian… pic.twitter.com/ZQsHPrQixp

— Ministry of Minority Affairs (@MOMAIndia) April 10, 2025

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April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UNION MINISTER OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT SMT. ANNPURNA DEVI HAS PRODUCTIVE INTERACTION WITH STATE GOVT. OFFICIALS OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 8:30PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi had a productive interaction regarding the implementation of schemes of Ministry of Women and Child Development of Government of India with State Government officials in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh

In a post on ‘X’, State Minister in charge of Women and Child Development in Arunachal Pradesh,

Ms. Dasanglu Pul said, “Together, we reaffirm our commitment to the welfare and empowerment of women and children across the state.”

Had a productive interaction with officials of the Ministry of Women & Child Development, Arunachal Pradesh in Itanagar regarding the implementation of schemes of Govt. of India. Hon’ble Minister Ms. Dasanglu Pul (WCD & Science & Tech, Arunachal Pradesh) was also present. @PIBWCD pic.twitter.com/jpN4lLkuBt

— Annapurna Devi (@Annapurna4BJP) April 10, 2025

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April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: InvestHK concludes fruitful Middle East visit to deepen international exchanges and co-operation (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

InvestHK concludes fruitful Middle East visit to deepen international exchanges and co-operation (with photo)
During the visit, Mr Ng met with business leaders, family office representatives and industry stakeholders across Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, including representatives from Investopia. He also attended a series of high-level business roundtables entitled Hong Kong Growth Dialogues: Building Asia’s Future Super-Corridor, co-organised with Asia House. He also met with local media and elaborated on Hong Kong’s business advantages.

Mr Ng said, “Hong Kong, as a global financial centre, an innovation and technology base, and a ‘super connector’ between Mainland China and international markets, offers abundant business opportunities from recent key developments, including the Northern Metropolis, the Airport City Skytopia and West Kowloon Cultural District, etc. We welcome businesses from the Middle East to capitalise on the opportunities our city offers.”

He added, “Hong Kong’s strategic position in Asia, coupled with the Middle East’s long-term strategies, such as Saudi Vision 2030 and UAE Centennial 2071, fosters collaboration and shared economic growth. By leveraging Hong Kong’s business advantages, we can strengthen co-operation in various areas, including finance, technology, trade, sustainability and tourism amid a fast-changing global economic landscape.”

Hong Kong and the Middle East are deepening financial and economic ties, creating powerful synergies for cross-border investment and shared growth. Recent developments, including cross-listed ETFs (exchange-traded funds) and the recognition of key Middle Eastern stock exchanges as Recognised Stock Exchanges, underscore the growing integration of capital markets between two regions. During the visit, Mr Ng also promoted Hong Kong’s Islamic finance capabilities, citing its successful issuance of three government sukuk and a level playing field for Shariah-compliant products through tax neutrality measures.

Participants at the events expressed keen interest in Hong Kong’s business environment and connectivity. Vice President of the Logistics Division at Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Group Mrs Saffia Abdulla Kanoo said, “I gained valuable insights into Hong Kong and its key sectors through the roundtable discussions. I was particularly impressed by the city’s robust financial infrastructure, strong rule of law, and its role as a hub for innovation and capital flows. The session was highly informative and engaging, inspiring me to further explore the opportunities available in Hong Kong.”
Issued at HKT 15:35

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April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pilot Scheme on Wading Line System to cope with flooding at low-lying road sections (with photos/video)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

In view of the increased chance of flooding at low-lying road sections caused by heavy rain under extreme weather, the Government will launch the Pilot Scheme on Wading Line System at five low-lying road sections with higher risk to monitor the flooding situation in real time, to facilitate effective mobilisation and collaboration of relevant government departments to tackle flooding as early as possible, and alert drivers of flooding on the road ahead, thereby reducing the possibility of vehicles stalling due to damage by flooding.

A Government spokesman said today (April 11) that the five pilot road sections are located at Chai Wan Road, Lung Cheung Road, Tsui Ping Road, Chatham Road North, and Nam Wan Road in Tai Po Market. During the severe rainstorms in September 2023, these locations experienced more serious flooding, causing damage to vehicles and rendering them inoperable.

Warning signs of the system will be placed at low-lying road sections, including a red wavy line and the words “Wading Line” painted on the road surface, with a water meter gauge placed next to it and a sign erected next to the carriageway. When the water level has reached or submerged the wading line, it indicates that the depth of the water at the lowest point of the road ahead has reached 0.3 metre or above.

In addition, the Drainage Services Department (DSD) will install water level sensors called Flood Monitoring Devices at the lowest point of the road sections to collect real-time water level data. When the devices detect that the water level on the road has reached the warning level, the monitoring system will immediately alert relevant government departments. The DSD and the Highways Department (HyD) will promptly deploy emergency response teams to inspect and clear blocked drains to reduce the risk of flooding. When the depth of the water has reached 0.3 metre, there will be temporary traffic guidance on-site to prevent vehicles from entering the flooded road sections. The Transport Department will disseminate information on traffic arrangements accordingly and the Police will assist at scene as necessary.

If vehicles have entered low-lying road sections before temporary traffic guidance is in place, drivers should stop their vehicles before reaching the wading line and avoid entering the flooded area. They should turn on hazard warning lights and follow the on-site directions to leave the temporarily closed road sections.

The Government will monitor the implementation of the pilot scheme, review its effectiveness in due course and optimise it as necessary.

To facilitate the progressive installation of warning signs of the system at the pilot road sections by the HyD, which will begin in late April, temporary traffic arrangements will be implemented in phases at the relevant road sections. The installation is expected to be completed in mid-May.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Unregistered person arrested for suspected prescription of clear aligner
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

â€‹The Department of Health (DH) announced today (April 11) that, for the first time, a person, not being a registered dentist, had been arrested for suspected taking of a digital impression with an intra-oral scanner and prescription of a clear aligner after the updated definition of “practising dentistry” under the Dentists Registration Ordinance (DRO) (Cap. 156) came into effect.

The Police and the DH yesterday (April 10) conducted a joint enforcement action against a person, not being a registered dentist, who was suspected of taking a digital impression with an intra-oral scanner in another person and prescribing another person with a clear aligner at a commercial building in Tsim Sha Tsui. During the operation, a 33-year-old woman was arrested for allegedly practising dentistry without being a registered dentist.

With effect from January 1 this year, the definition of “practising dentistry” under the DRO has been updated. The DRO clearly stipulates that only registered dentists may provide the services specified for the meaning of practising dentistry in Schedule 2, which includes taking of a digital impression with an intra-oral scanner in another person and providing another person with the following services:
1. the carrying out of dental bleaching or teeth whitening procedure;
2. the prescription of clear aligner; and
3. the carrying out of teeth veneering procedure.
Any person who provides or attempts to provide the aforementioned services but not being a registered dentist will commit an offence. The offender will be liable on summary conviction to a fine at level 6 and to imprisonment for three years, or on conviction on indictment to imprisonment for five years.

The DH reminded members of the public not to patronise non-registered dentists for their own health. Citizens may check before choosing dental services the List of Registered Dentists published by the Dental Council of Hong Kong online to verify the qualifications of service providers. If in doubt, citizens should refrain from receiving such services to ensure safety.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Air Pollution Control (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 comes into operation

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Air Pollution Control (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 comes into operation
The Amendment Ordinance tightens five existing AQOs and adds three parameters newly introduced by the World Health Organization (WHO) to the WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines (see Annex). In addition, the Amendment Ordinance provides transitional arrangements for designated projects for which environmental permits (EPs) have been issued under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499) before April 11 this year. If applications for variation of EPs of these projects are submitted within 36 months from the day that the new AQOs come into operation, the Government will adopt the pre-amended AQOs as the approval criteria.

As regards the tightened control over unlicensed SP operations, after the Amendment Ordinance come into operation, the Director of Environmental Protection may issue a closure notice to the operator of a premise if he believes that a SP is being carried out on any premises without a SP licence. If the operator fails to comply with the requirements of the closure notice to stop the conduct of the concerned SP, a maximum penalty, upon conviction, is a fine of $1,000,000 and imprisonment for 12 months. The Amendment Ordinance also amends the scope of “cement works” and the definition of “premises”, including regulating “cement works” carried out on ships or barges, which are subject to control of the SP licensing regime.

A spokesman for the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) said, “To enable cement operators brought under the control of the Amendment Ordinance to apply for SP licences from the EPD in a timely manner, the EPD will put in place a six-month transitional arrangement, during which the cement operations newly brought under control will not be regarded as unlicensed operations. The transitional arrangement does not apply to cement operations that are already subject to control under the original Air Pollution Control Ordinance.”
Issued at HKT 12:00

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April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES XR Creator Hackathon Winners Bring XR Innovation to Schools, Clinics, Homes, and Beyond

Source: Government of India

WAVES XR Creator Hackathon Winners Bring XR Innovation to Schools, Clinics, Homes, and Beyond

Five winning teams will showcase their XR projects at WAVE Summit

XR Innovators coming up in large numbers from Tier 2 and 3 cities

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 9:06PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 10 April 2025

From immersive science labs to cross-platform war games, India’s top eXtended Reality (XR) innovators are redefining how we learn, heal, shop, and travel! The winners of the XR Creator Hackathon, which is a part of Create in India Challenge (CIC) Season-1, launched as part of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), organised by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with Wavelaps, have been declared. The hackathon, aimed at accelerating India’s presence in immersive technology, had five thematic categories — healthcare-fitness & well-being, educational transformation, immersive tourism, digital media & entertainment, and e-commerce-retail transformation.

More than 2,200 participants from across India registered for the hackathon. After three rounds of evaluation, five teams have emerged as winners, representing a mix of students, professionals, and entrepreneurs from different cities and institutions. The winner announcement was done in a ‘Winners’ Ceremony’ which was organized virtually over a YouTube live stream.

A brief about the Winning Teams and their XR Projects

1) The winner in the theme, ‘Educational Transformation’ is the team XR Runners with their project ‘Eduscape XR’

The VR-based platform, developed by the students of IIT Kharagpur, EduscapeXR, allows students to perform realistic, immersive experiments in subjects like physics, chemistry, and biology using hand-tracking and AI-based feedback. It addresses the lack of laboratory infrastructure in many schools and colleges. “In many parts of the country, students study science without doing real experiments. We wanted to change that and our project aims to revolutionise education by providing STEM practicals on a virtual reality platform,” said Vedanta Hazra, who led the team with Sahil Patel and Shaurya Baranwal.

2) The Winner in the theme, ‘Healthcare, Fitness & Well-being’ is team Cognihab with their project ‘Cognihab’

Cognihab offers XR-powered rehabilitation solutions that support recovery from lazy eye, stroke, and anxiety. “We’re focused on outcomes in real medical settings and this hackathon helped us sharpen our approach and reach new stakeholders,” said team lead Rishab Kapur. Team members include Pintu Kumar and others with a background in XR-based health tech.

3) The winners of the theme ‘Immersive Tourism’ is the team LumeXR with their project is ‘Immersive Travel Guide’

LumeXR developed a mixed-reality tourism guide that allows users to explore destinations virtually. The experience includes a 3D map interface, drone-shot photogrammetry, and embedded video stories, making trip planning more engaging and efficient. The platform also enables tourism brands to offer XR-based previews that go beyond traditional brochures or videos. “This isn’t just a travel app — it’s immersive cultural storytelling, with the help of our project, users can now ‘feel’ a destination before booking it,” said LumeXR’s team lead, Savio.

4) The winners of the theme ‘E-Commerce & Retail Transformation’ theme is team ‘EMO’ with their project ‘Heaven Estate’

Heaven Estate lets homeowners visualize interior designs in AR and 3D before making real-world decisions. What sets it apart is the focus on user-designer collaboration — where verified interior designers upload visualizations that clients can preview in their own space. “We wanted to create a real bridge between homeowners and professionals,” said EMO’s team lead Utkarsh Rai, who built the project with Himanshu Mahto, Ashutosh Mishra, and Ishita Guar. The EMO team credits the mentorship phase of the hackathon for refining their design and user experience.

5) The winners of the theme ‘Digital Media & Entertainment’ is team Youth Buzz with their project ‘Immersive Warfare Simulator’

Youth Buzz created The Game of Dimensions, a multiplayer tactical war game playable across VR (virtual reality) headsets and mobile, offering an immersive gameplay. “We wanted to unify the gaming experience across platforms and realities,” said team lead, Mohit Kumar Sharma. His teammates include Anish Dombale, A Shivam Raj, and Yash Sadhukhan.

XR Innovators are coming up from Tier 2 and 3 cities

The hackathon saw participation from 66% Tier 2 and 3 cities, including Chengalpet, Manipal, and Veraval. The participants ranged from 17 to 35 years. Of the 40 finalist teams, 53% were students, 33% working professionals, and 14% self-employed entrepreneurs. Notably, 19% of the finalists were women — a strong indicator of growing gender diversity in XR innovation.

With support from Wavelaps, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, and the two leading XR communities, BharatXR and XDG, the finalists are now stepping onto the world stage — where ideas born in classrooms, hostels, and home studios may soon reach global users. While the winners have been declared, the XR Creator Hackathon isn’t over yet. All five teams are now preparing to showcase their projects at the WAVES Summit — a global media and entertainment event organised by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, scheduled from May 1–4, 2025, in Mumbai.

“The XR Creator Hackathon is not just nurturing innovation — it’s building the foundation for a new digital India. These solutions will redefine how we learn, heal, travel, and connect.” said Ashutosh Kumar, Founder & CEO of Wavelaps.

About WAVES

The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.

WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR).

Have questions? Find answers here

Stay updated with the latest announcements from PIB Team WAVES

Register for WAVES now.

* * *

PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Sayyid/ Sriyanka/ Darshana | 90

Follow us on social media: @PIBMumbai /PIBMumbai /pibmumbai pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com /PIBMumbai /pibmumbai

(Release ID: 2120798) Visitor Counter : 115

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: #FindingTAIWAN International Short Film Contest

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

#FindingTAIWAN International Short Film Contest
Everyone sees Taiwan a little differently, for some the name will conjure up delicious breakfast foods, for others bustling city streets or fond memories of chatting with friendly locals.
We’re inviting you to capture through the lens what Taiwan means to you in your own way, as part of the #FindingTAIWAN International Short Film Contest ！
The prize pool for the contest totals NT$1 million, with a grand prize of NT$200,000
Each month throughout the contest prizes of up to NT$10,000 will be awarded to popular entries
Those who submit entries every month will also be entered into a prize draw
What are you waiting for?
Window for submission: April 9-August 31, 2025 (Before 23:59 Taiwan time)
Who can take part?
Admission is free of charge and open to all ages and nationalities; Entries must not have been awarded prizes as part of other competitions.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Science Museum’s new exhibition to introduce current state of local industries and explore future industry prospects (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong Science Museum’s new exhibition to introduce current state of local industries and explore future industry prospects
Addressing the opening ceremony today (April 11), the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Manda Chan, said Hong Kong, as an international metropolis, not only brings together Eastern and Western cultures but also harmonises innovation with tradition. Following the country’s announcement to accelerate the development of new quality productive forces, Hong Kong is fully co-operating in its efforts and striving to become an international innovation and technology centre. Hong Kong’s industry has gradually transformed from early traditional manufacturing to today’s high-tech industries, embodying the wisdom and efforts of countless scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs.

She added that each innovation achievement in this exhibition is evidence of the new era of the Hong Kong industry, telling a “Hong Kong story” that, relying on technological strength, transforms innovative ideas into practical and sustainable solutions, continuously improving people’s quality of life. With advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and robotics, the Hong Kong industry achieves breakthroughs in environmental technologies that convert waste into energy, cutting-edge applications in smart manufacturing and life sciences, and redefines “Made in Hong Kong”.

Ms Chan said this exhibition not only showcases technological innovation achievements but also promotes the culture of scientific research and popular science education. She hopes that the public, especially young people, can experience the myriad possibilities of technological development through the exhibits and interactive experiences, developing a passion for exploring science, learning innovative thinking for the future, and seizing the development opportunities brought about by Hong Kong’s technological innovation.

Other officiating guests today included the Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI), Mr Steve Chuang; the Executive Deputy Chairman of the FHKI and Chairman of the FHKI 65th Anniversary Organising Committee, Mr Anthony Lam; and the Museum Director of the HKScM, Mr Lawrence Lee.

The exhibition comprises five sections, namely “Industry Cornerstone”, “Research and Development”, “Smart Manufacturing”, “Industry 4.0” and “2030 Vision”. Through interactive exhibits and model and object displays, the exhibition introduces innovative designs that cover a wide range of areas, including clothing, food, housing, and transportation in people’s daily lives, and highlights how local teams transfer research outcomes from three key industries, namely life and health technology, artificial intelligence and data sciences, and advanced manufacturing and new energy technology, to contribute to the realisation of Hong Kong’s new industrialisation. Highlight exhibits include an interactive device that showcases a passive radiative cooling material that lowers indoor temperatures without relying on electricity, an injection moulding machine that utilises injection moulding technology to mass-produce plastic products, and an automated multiplex diagnostic system that can detect more than 40 respiratory pathogens simultaneously in about 1.5 hours.

The exhibition is presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the FHKI, organised by the HKScM and the FHKI, and funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission. The exhibition is held at the Special Exhibition Hall, G/F, HKScM (2 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon). Guided tours of the exhibition will be held on weekends and public holidays from May 1 to July 1. The guided tours are free of charge with on-site enrolment. In addition, the HKScM will also organise an array of activities, including off-site guided tours, exhibit demonstrations, children’s programmes, experiments, workshops, and science lectures, with free admission. For details of the exhibition and activities, please visit hk.science.museum/en/web/scm/exhibition/industrial2025.htmlIssued at HKT 18:11

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Red flag hoisted at Clear Water Bay Second Beach

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Attention TV/radio announcers:

Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:

Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (April 11) that due to big waves, the red flag has been hoisted at Clear Water Bay Second Beach in Sai Kung District. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at the beach.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointments to Council on Human Reproductive Technology

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Appointments to Council on Human Reproductive Technology
Established in 2001 under the Human Reproductive Technology Ordinance, the Council on Human Reproductive Technology is tasked to regulate reproductive technology activities, including regulating the provision of reproductive technology procedures and embryo research, in Hong Kong through a licensing system, and formulate the Code of Practice for the relevant sectors.————–
Professor Raymond Liang Hin-suen————————-
Professor Wong Man-sau———–
Mr Philip Chiu Kwok-leung
Ms Eva Choi Doi-kwan
Mr James Mathew Fong
Dr Go Wing-wa
Ms Iris Hsu Mei-kuen
Mr Frederick Hui Cheuk-kit
Dr May Lam Mei-ling
Ms Lau Tsz-on
Dr Leung Kwok-yin
Reverend Leung Yuen-yiu
Mr Jeffrey Lo Cheuk-fei
Mr Ng Chak-hang
Professor Ernest Ng Hung-yu
Reverend Ng Sui-lung
Ms Ng Wing-wing
Dr Charas Ong Yeu-theng
Ms Vanessa Wan Lai-shan
Professor Kelvin Wang Man-ping
Professor Dennis Wong Sing-wing
Ms Yip Lai-wa
Principal Assistant Secretary, Health Bureau
Assistant Director, Department of Health
Assistant Director, Home Affairs Department
Chief Social Work Officer, Social Welfare Department
Issued at HKT 11:16

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ombudsman probes Highways Department’s work on repair and maintenance of public roads (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Ombudsman probes Highways Department’s work on repair and maintenance of public roads 168–200 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong
Fax: 2882 8149
Email: di482@ombudsman.hk
Issued at HKT 11:00

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Employment (Amendment) Bill 2025 gazetted

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Employment (Amendment) Bill 2025 gazetted
The Bill seeks to revise the working hours threshold of the “continuous contract” requirement under the Employment Ordinance (Chapter 57) (EO), making it easier for employees to meet the revised “continuous contract” requirement and thus be able to enjoy comprehensive employment benefits.

A spokesman for the Labour Department said, “The weekly working hours threshold of the ‘continuous contract’ requirement will be lowered from 18 hours to 17 hours. Moreover, a week with less than 17 working hours will still be regarded as a period under the ‘continuous contract’ of employment once the sum of the working hours of that week and those of the three weeks immediately preceding it reaches 68 hours. The Labour Advisory Board has reached a consensus on the proposed amendments.”

The spokesman added, “The existing eligibility criteria for employees to enjoy various statutory benefits under the EO will remain unchanged. Subject to a smooth passage of the Bill, the amendment ordinance will come into operation on the first Sunday after six months upon its gazettal. During this period, the Labour Department will widely publicise the salient features of the amendments to employers and employees through various channels, facilitating both parties in getting prepared.”

The Bill will be introduced into the Legislative Council (LegCo) for first and second readings on April 16. The Government will fully complement the work of the LegCo in scrutinising the Bill, with a view to seeking the LegCo’s support and passage of the Bill.
Issued at HKT 11:00

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MD announcement

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:

The Marine Department today (April 11) reminded masters, coxswains and persons-in-charge of vessels navigating in Hong Kong waters to proceed at a safe speed and exercise extreme caution because restricted visibility of less than 2 nautical miles has been reported.

Appropriate sound signals shall be made when underway or at anchor. All vessels must comply with the International Regulations for Preventing Collision at Sea.

Also, when radar is used without the benefit of adequate plotting facilities, the information obtained from the equipment is rather limited and should be construed accordingly.

Visibility reports are broadcast by the Vessel Traffic Centre (VTC) on VHF channels 02, 12, 14, 63 and 67.

In the event of an accident, a report shall be made immediately to the VTC at Tel: 2233 7801.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bilibili Inc. to Hold Annual General Meeting on June 20, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SHANGHAI, April 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today published a circular (the “AGM Circular”) to provide shareholders with information on the proposals that will be put forward at the Company’s annual general meeting of the shareholders (the “AGM”) for shareholders’ approval and a notice of the AGM (the “AGM Notice”). The AGM will be held at Building 3, Guozheng Center, No. 485 Zhengli Road, Yangpu District, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China on June 20, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. (Hong Kong time), to consider and vote on the resolutions set forth in the AGM Notice. The AGM Circular, AGM Notice and form of proxy for the AGM are available on the Company’s investor relations website at http://ir.bilibili.com.

Holders of record of ordinary shares of the Company at the close of business on May 13, 2025, Hong Kong time, are entitled to attend and vote at the AGM and any adjourned meeting thereof. Holders of the Company’s American depositary shares as of the close of business on May 13, 2025, New York time, who wish to exercise their voting rights for the underlying Class Z ordinary shares of the Company must act through the depositary of the Company’s American depositary share program, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas.

Bilibili has filed its annual report on Form 20-F, including its audited financial statements, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Bilibili’s Form 20-F can be accessed on the Company’s investor relations website at http://ir.bilibili.com and on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

About Bilibili Inc.

Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.

For more information, please visit: http://ir.bilibili.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar expressions. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to those included in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of this announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China:

Bilibili Inc.
Juliet Yang
Tel: +86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
E-mail: ir@bilibili.com

Piacente Financial Communications
Helen Wu
Tel: +86-10-6508-0677
E-mail: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

In the United States:

Piacente Financial Communications
Brandi Piacente
Tel: +1-212-481-2050
E-mail: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

The MIL Network –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: ASEAN, Australia continue to advance Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Source: ASEAN

JAKARTA, 11 April 2024 – At the 15th ASEAN-Australia Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) Meeting held today at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat, ASEAN and Australia reiterated their commitment to advancing their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP).

The Meeting acknowledged the positive momentum of ASEAN-Australia cooperation following the Special Summit held in Melbourne in March 2024 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations. The Meeting welcomed Australia’s continued support for ASEAN Community-building efforts and ASEAN Centrality as well as its strong commitment to substantially strengthening the CSP with ASEAN, reflected in programmes such as the Australia for ASEAN Futures Initiative (Aus4ASEAN Futures Initiative).

The Meeting acknowledged the significant progress made in the implementation of the ASEAN-Australia Plan of Action 2025-2029 in various areas across all pillars, including non-traditional security challenges, maritime security, conflict prevention, trade and investment, digitalisation, energy, environment, education, youth and people-to-people exchanges. The Meeting welcomed the establishment of the ASEAN-Australia Centre in Canberra and its programmes and activities that aim to further strengthen business, education, cultural and community connections between ASEAN and Australia. The Meeting also welcomed Australia’s proposal for a Joint Statement on Conflict Prevention to be adopted at the 5th ASEAN-Australia Summit in November 2025.

Both sides further discussed enhancing cooperation to advance the CSP, in line with the Joint Vision Statement – Partners for Peace and Prosperity and the Melbourne Declaration – A Partnership for Future adopted at the Special Summit in 2024. Focus areas of cooperation include cybersecurity; maritime cooperation; trade and investment; digitalisation; clean and renewable energy; science and technology; climate change; disaster management; health; TVET; education; people-to-people ties; smart cities; connectivity; and sustainable development, among others. Australia reaffirmed its commitment to providing capacity-building support for Timor-Leste’s full membership of ASEAN.

The 15th ASEAN-Australia JCC Meeting was co-chaired by the Permanent Representative of Indonesia to ASEAN, H.E. Derry Aman, and Ambassador of Australia to ASEAN, H.E. Tiffany McDonald. Permanent Representatives of ASEAN Member States and representatives of the ASEAN Secretariat were in attendance. Timor-Leste attended as Observer.

MIL OSI Economics –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Syria: Its opportunities to stabilise must be supported and protected – Briefing | United Nations

Source: United Nations (Video News)

Briefing by Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, on the situation in the Middle East.

——————————-

Briefing the Council, Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific Khaled Khiari noted that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have “publicly confirmed it has built multiple positions in the area of separation on the Golan” and “Israeli officials have also spoken about Israel’s intentions to stay in Syria for the foreseeable future.”

Such facts on the ground, Khiari said, “are not easily reversed” and “threaten Syria’s fragile political transition.”

He recalled the Council’s Presidential Statement of 14 March, “which reaffirmed a strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria.”

Khiari said, “Syria’s opportunities to stabilise after 14 years of conflict must be supported and protected. For Syrians and for Israelis, this is the only way regional peace and security can be realised.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2g6Fts-vwTo

MIL OSI Video –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Syria, Occupied Palestinian Territory & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

Source: United Nations (Video News)

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

———————

Highlights:

– Syria
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Lebanon
– Democratic Republic of the Congo
– Sudan/Chad
– Myanmar
– Afghanistan
– Amara Essy
– Guest

SYRIA
Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari told the Security Council this morning that there have been hundreds of reported Israeli airstrikes across Syria since 8 December of last year. He added that at dawn on 3 April, there were reports that Israel carried out multiple airstrikes across Syria, including in Damascus, the Hama Military Airport, and the T4 military airport in Homs.
Mr. Khiari recalled the Security Council’s 14 March presidential statement on Syria and said that Syria’s opportunity to stabilize after 14 years of conflict must be supported and protected, for Syrians and for Israelis.
Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Jean-Pierre Lacroix also briefed the Security Council, telling them that the Israel Defence Force (IDF) currently occupies 12 positions that they established on the Bravo side – 10 in the area of separation and two in the area of limitation in the vicinity of the Bravo line. They also continue to construct counter-mobility obstacles along the ceasefire line, and have flown, on several occasions, aircraft across the ceasefire line and helicopters into the area of separation, he said.
Mr. Lacroix emphasized that it remains critical that all parties uphold their obligations under the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement, including by ending all unauthorized presence in the areas of separation and limitation, as well as refraining from any action that would undermine the ceasefire and stability on the Syrian Golan.

OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
In Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs warns that hostilities across the Strip are taking a horrifying toll on civilians – depriving people of safety and the means for their survival. There have been daily reports of Israeli strikes killing and injuring many Palestinian civilians.
Just yesterday in Gaza City, there were reports of dozens of people killed – including at least eight children – after an Israeli strike hit a residential building. Many are still missing under the rubble. OCHA stresses that civilians must be protected under international law and should never be a target.
For its part, the World Health Organization has been able to support some medical evacuations from Gaza. Yesterday, 18 patients and nearly 30 companions were allowed to exit to seek specialized treatment abroad. However, with some 12,500 patients in Gaza still in need of medical evacuation outside the Strip, WHO calls for them to be able to do so through all available border crossings and corridors.
As supplies inside the Strip near exhaustion and the situation becomes increasingly dire, we have seen an increase in looting over the past few days. Earlier this week, several such incidents were reported in Rafah, and Deir al Balah, and Al Zawaida.
Once again, OCHA reiterates the urgency of reopening the crossings to allow critical supplies to enter.
More than 60,000 children are reportedly suffering from malnutrition, at a time when community kitchens are rapidly running out of fuel and supplies.  
Across Gaza, partners are also warning of acute water shortages in shelters hosting displaced people. The loss of water – together with the lack of cleaning supplies and cohabitation with livestock – are having a dire public health impact. In March, more than one third of households in Gaza experienced lice infestations.
Meanwhile, our humanitarian partners in Gaza have identified more than a dozen unaccompanied and separated children this week. They are doing everything possible to reunite these children with their families. 

Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=10+April+2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Z7CIoidD-A

MIL OSI Video –

April 11, 2025

MIL-OSI: CIB Marine Bancshares, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BROOKFIELD, Wis., April 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CIB Marine Bancshares, Inc. (the “Company” or “CIB Marine”) (OTCQX: CIBH), the holding company of CIBM Bank (the “Bank”), announced its unaudited results of operations and financial condition for the quarter and three months ended March 31, 2025. Net income of $0.3 million for the first quarter of 2025, or $0.24 basic and $0.23 diluted net income per share, compares to $0.2 million during the same quarter of 2024, or $0.13 basic and $0.10 diluted net income per share.

Financial highlights for the quarter include:

Net interest margin increased to 2.62% compared to 2.44% for the fourth quarter of 2024 and 2.29% for the first quarter of 2024. The rising trend continues as the cost of funds reprices lower relative to the changes in yields on earning assets. Net interest income rose $0.3 million compared to the same quarter of 2024, primarily due to declining cost of funds and improved net interest margin.
Although quarter-end loan balances declined $12 million compared to December 31, 2024, the allowance for credit losses to loans rose from 1.26% to 1.29%, primarily due to a deterioration in forecasted short-term economic outcomes. Non-performing assets to total assets of 0.67% and non-accrual loans to loans of 0.84% on March 31, 2025, compares to 0.68% and 0.81%, respectively, on December 31, 2024. In 2024, the Bank maintained lower loan balances to support the preferred stock redemption and ensure appropriate capital ratios. Looking ahead, an increase in the loan portfolio is expected over the remainder of the year, primarily driven by growth in the commercial segments.

The Banking Division’s $0.8 million of net income for the quarter was unchanged from the same period the prior year. Due to seasonal factors and high interest rates, the Mortgage Division experienced a slow first quarter, resulting in a net loss of $0.2 million, which is an improvement of $0.2 million compared to the same period in 2024 due to cost-saving actions implemented earlier. The net remaining Other Division, comprised primarily of parent company operations, had a net loss of $0.3 million with roughly one-third of that amount attributed to subordinated debt interest expense. Although the parent company has a $2 million line of credit, no draws have been made on that potential funding source to date.

Mr. J. Brian Chaffin, CIB Marine’s President and CEO, commented, “Our banking operations have gained momentum, with our strong corporate banking group rebuilding the commercial loan pipeline and our net interest margin trending higher due to management’s diligent efforts to lower our cost of funds. Despite an improvement of $0.2 million from the first quarter of the previous year, the Mortgage Division reported a loss due to the challenging business environment for residential mortgages. We anticipate a decline in overall mortgage production for the remainder of the year compared to the previous year, primarily due to lender staff reductions, but remain confident in the capabilities of our current lending team to deliver solid mortgage production.”

He added, “In February, we announced the launch of our 2025 common stock repurchase program, which is expected to buy back up to $1 million worth of shares through the end of the year. During the first quarter of 2025, we spent $235,000 in open market transactions to buy 7,429 shares at an average price of $31.65 per share. This price was significantly lower than the tangible book value of $57.37 per share as of December 31, 2024, and the repurchases contributed to an increase in the tangible book value to $58.46 per share by March 31, 2025.”

As the Company prepares for its upcoming annual meeting, he concluded, “We look forward to discussing key topics related to our operating results and capital plans at the Annual Shareholder Meeting on Thursday, April 24th, 2025. Shareholders are encouraged to visit our website for more information about the virtual meeting and to review the meeting materials.”

CIB Marine Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for CIBM Bank, which operates nine banking offices in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana, and has mortgage loan officers and/or offices in six states. More information on the Company is available at www.cibmarine.com, including recent shareholder letters, links to regulatory financial reports, and audited financial statements.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
CIB Marine has made statements in this release that may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. CIB Marine intends these forward-looking statements to be subject to the safe harbor created thereby and is including this statement to avail itself of the safe harbor. Forward-looking statements are identified generally by statements containing words and phrases such as “may,” “project,” “are confident,” “should be,” “intend,” “predict,” “believe,” “plan,” “expect,” “estimate,” “anticipate” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements reflect CIB Marine’s current views with respect to future events and financial performance that are subject to many uncertainties and factors relating to CIB Marine’s operations and the business environment, which could change at any time.

There are inherent difficulties in predicting factors that may affect the accuracy of forward-looking statements.

Stockholders should note that many factors, some of which are discussed elsewhere in this Earnings Release and in the documents that are incorporated by reference, could affect the future financial results of CIB Marine and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements contained or incorporated by reference in this document. These factors, many of which are beyond CIB Marine’s control, include but are not limited to:

operating, legal, execution, credit, market, security (including cyber), and regulatory risks;
economic, political, and competitive forces affecting CIB Marine’s banking business;
the impact on net interest income and securities values from changes in monetary policy and general economic and political conditions; and
the risk that CIB Marine’s analyses of these risks and forces could be incorrect and/or that the strategies developed to address them could be unsuccessful.

These factors should be considered in evaluating the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. CIB Marine undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties and CIB Marine’s actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in forward-looking statements.

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:
J. Brian Chaffin, President & CEO
(217) 355-0900
brian.chaffin@cibmbank.com


CIB MARINE BANCSHARES, INC.
Selected Unaudited Consolidated Financial Data

	At or for the
	Quarters Ended															3 Months Ended
	March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,			March 31,			March 31,			March 31,
	2025			2024			2024			2024			2024			2025			2024
	(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
Selected Statement of Operations Data:
Interest and dividend income	$	10,941		$	11,408		$	12,283		$	12,052		$	11,801		$	10,941		$	11,801
Interest expense		5,652			6,259			6,707			6,897			6,840			5,652			6,840
Net interest income		5,289			5,149			5,576			5,155			4,961			5,289			4,961
Provision for (reversal of) credit losses		42			(332	)		(113	)		10			(28	)		42			(28	)
Net interest income after provision for
(reversal of) credit losses		5,247			5,481			5,689			5,145			4,989			5,247			4,989
Noninterest income (1)		1,552			1,724			2,897			6,904			1,627			1,552			1,627
Noninterest expense		6,373			6,678			7,163			6,904			6,421			6,373			6,421
Income before income taxes		426			527			1,423			5,145			195			426			195
Income tax expense		105			123			347			1,361			17			105			17
Net income (loss)	$	321		$	404		$	1,076		$	3,784		$	178		$	321		$	178

Common Share Data:
Basic net income (loss) per share (2)	$	0.24		$	0.60		$	0.79		$	2.79		$	0.13		$	0.24		$	0.13
Diluted net income (loss) per share (2)		0.23			0.54			0.59			2.06			0.10			0.23			0.10
Dividend		0.00			0.00			0.00			0.00			0.00			0.00			0.00
Tangible book value per share (3)		58.46			57.37			57.80			55.36			52.59			58.46			52.59
Book value per share (3)		58.51			57.42			56.06			53.61			50.84			58.51			50.84
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic		1,348,995			1,357,737			1,357,259			1,356,255			1,341,181			1,348,995			1,341,181
Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted		1,396,274			1,507,344			1,833,586			1,833,881			1,820,498			1,396,274			1,820,498
Financial Condition Data:
Total assets	$	852,018		$	866,474		$	888,283		$	901,634		$	897,595		$	852,018		$	897,595
Loans		684,787			697,093			707,310			719,129			736,019			684,787			736,019
Allowance for credit losses on loans		(8,818	)		(8,790	)		(8,973	)		(9,083	)		(9,087	)		(8,818	)		(9,087	)
Investment securities		124,109			120,339			120,349			123,814			119,300			124,109			119,300
Deposits		692,028			692,378			747,168			768,984			772,377			692,028			772,377
Borrowings		67,214			81,735			33,583			28,222			32,120			67,214			32,120
Stockholders’ equity		79,309			77,961			92,358			89,008			85,091			79,309			85,091
Financial Ratios and Other Data:
Performance Ratios:
Net interest margin (4)		2.62	%		2.44	%		2.55	%		2.38	%		2.29	%		2.62	%		2.29	%
Net interest spread (5)		1.99	%		1.74	%		1.80	%		1.71	%		1.63	%		1.99	%		1.63	%
Noninterest income to average assets (6)		0.73	%		0.82	%		1.25	%		3.09	%		0.73	%		0.73	%		0.73	%
Noninterest expense to average assets		3.05	%		3.06	%		3.17	%		3.09	%		2.87	%		3.05	%		2.87	%
Efficiency ratio (7)		93.65	%		96.17	%		85.32	%		57.19	%		97.20	%		93.65	%		97.20	%
Earnings (loss) on average assets (8)		0.15	%		0.19	%		0.48	%		1.69	%		0.08	%		0.15	%		0.08	%
Earnings (loss) on average equity (9)		1.65	%		1.94	%		4.71	%		17.92	%		0.84	%		1.65	%		0.84	%
Asset Quality Ratios:
Nonaccrual loans to loans (10)		0.84	%		0.81	%		0.44	%		0.47	%		0.48	%		0.84	%		0.48	%
Nonperformance assets to total assets (11)		0.67	%		0.68	%		0.38	%		0.41	%		0.43	%		0.67	%		0.43	%
Nonaccrual loans, modified loans to borrowers experiencing
financial difficulty, loans 90 days or more past due and still
accruing to total loans		1.21	%		1.19	%		1.62	%		1.38	%		1.04	%		1.21	%		1.04	%
Nonaccrual loans, OREO, modified loans to borrowers
experiencing financial difficulty, loans 90 days or more past
due and still accruing to total assets		0.97	%		0.98	%		1.32	%		1.14	%		0.89	%		0.97	%		0.89	%
Allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans (10)		1.29	%		1.26	%		1.27	%		1.26	%		1.23	%		1.29	%		1.23	%
Allowance for credit losses on loans to nonaccrual loans,
modified loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty loans
and loans 90 days or more past due and still accruing (10)		106.25	%		105.95	%		82.53	%		91.24	%		118.77	%		106.25	%		118.77	%
Net charge-offs (recoveries) annualized
to average loans (10)		-0.01	%		-0.01	%		-0.01	%		0.03	%		0.03	%		-0.01	%		0.03	%
Capital Ratios:
Total equity to total assets		9.31	%		9.00	%		10.40	%		9.87	%		9.48	%		9.31	%		9.48	%
Total risk-based capital ratio		13.34	%		13.02	%		14.54	%		13.90	%		13.07	%		13.34	%		13.07	%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio		10.62	%		10.33	%		11.89	%		11.27	%		10.48	%		10.62	%		10.48	%
Leverage capital ratio		8.40	%		8.14	%		9.30	%		8.93	%		8.50	%		8.40	%		8.50	%
Other Data:
Number of employees (full-time equivalent)		152			165			170			172			177			152			177
Number of banking facilities		9			9			9			9			9			9			9

(1) Noninterest income includes gains and losses on securities.
(2) Net income available to common stockholders in the calculation of earnings per share includes the difference between the carrying amount less the consideration paid for redeemed preferred stock of $0.4 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2024.
(3) Tangible book value per share is the stockholder equity less the carry value of the preferred stock and less the goodwill and intangible assets, divided by the total shares of common outstanding. Book value per share is the stockholder equity less the liquidation preference of the preferred stock, divided by the total shares of common outstanding. Book value measures are reported inclusive of the net deferred tax assets. As presented here, shares of common outstanding excludes unvested restricted stock awards.
(4) Net interest margin is the ratio of net interest income to average interest-earning assets.
(5) Net interest spread is the yield on average interest-earning assets less the rate on average interest-bearing liabilities.
(6) Noninterest income to average assets excludes gains and losses on securities.
(7) The efficiency ratio is noninterest expense divided by the sum of net interest income plus noninterest income, excluding gains and losses on securities.
(8) Earnings on average assets are net income divided by average total assets.
(9) Earnings on average equity are net income divided by average stockholders’ equity.
(10) Excludes loans held for sale.
(11)Nonperforming assets includes nonaccrual loans and securities and other real estate owned.

CIB MARINE BANCSHARES, INC.
Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)

	March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,			March 31,
	2025			2024			2024			2024			2024
	(Dollars in Thousands, Except Shares)
Assets
Cash and due from banks	$	7,717		$	6,748		$	13,814		$	10,690		$	7,727
Reverse repurchase agreements		–			–			–			–			–
Securities available for sale		121,939			118,206			118,145			121,687			117,160
Equity securities at fair value		2,170			2,133			2,204			2,127			2,140
Loans held for sale		7,685			13,291			19,472			17,897			8,048

Loans		684,787			697,093			707,310			719,129			736,019
Allowance for credit losses on loans		(8,818	)		(8,790	)		(8,973	)		(9,083	)		(9,087	)
Net loans		675,969			688,303			698,337			710,046			726,932

Federal Home Loan Bank Stock		2,607			2,607			2,238			2,238			2,328
Premises and equipment, net		1,486			1,570			1,526			1,569			3,550
Accrued interest receivable		2,680			2,651			2,926			3,230			3,271
Deferred tax assets, net		12,529			12,955			12,796			14,840			14,849
Other real estate owned, net		–			200			211			283			375
Bank owned life insurance		6,486			6,437			6,388			6,340			6,291
Goodwill and other intangible assets		64			64			64			64			64
Other assets		10,686			11,309			10,162			10,623			4,860
Total assets	$	852,018		$	866,474		$	888,283		$	901,634		$	897,595

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing demand	$	98,403		$	86,886		$	95,471		$	95,457		$	87,621
Interest-bearing demand		77,620			84,833			90,095			86,728			92,092
Savings		232,046			224,960			234,969			244,595			261,998
Time		283,959			295,699			326,633			342,204			330,666
Total deposits		692,028			692,378			747,168			768,984			772,377
Short-term borrowings		57,444			71,973			23,829			18,477			22,383
Long-term borrowings		9,770			9,762			9,754			9,745			9,737
Accrued interest payable		1,614			1,911			2,101			2,145			1,982
Other liabilities		11,853			12,489			13,073			13,275			6,025
Total liabilities		772,709			788,513			795,925			812,626			812,504

Stockholders’ Equity
Preferred stock, $1 par value; 5,000,000 authorized shares at periods prior to December 31, 2024; 7% fixed rate noncumulative perpetual issued; 14,633 shares of series A and 1,610 shares of series B; convertible; $16.2 million aggregate liquidation preference		–			–			13,806			13,806			13,806
Common stock, $1 par value; 75,000,000 authorized shares; 1,382,609 and 1,372,642 issued shares; 1,356,247 and 1,358,473 outstanding shares at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. (1)		1,383			1,372			1,372			1,372			1,369
Capital surplus		181,801			181,708			181,603			181,486			181,380
Accumulated deficit		(99,167	)		(99,487	)		(100,297	)		(101,373	)		(105,157	)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net		(3,939	)		(5,098	)		(3,592	)		(5,749	)		(5,773	)
Treasury stock, 27,084 shares on March 31, 2025 and 14,791 shares December 31, 2024 (2)		(769	)		(534	)		(534	)		(534	)		(534	)
Total stockholders’ equity		79,309			77,961			92,358			89,008			85,091
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	852,018		$	866,474		$	888,283		$	901,634		$	897,595

(1) Both issued and outstanding shares as stated here exclude 51,684 shares and 42,259 shares of unvested restricted stock awards at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
(2) Treasury stock includes 722 shares held by subsidiary bank CIBM Bank.

CIB MARINE BANCSHARES, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)

	At or for the
	Quarters Ended															3 Months Ended
	March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,			March 31,			March 31,			March 31,
	2025			2024			2024			2024			2024			2025			2024
	(Dollars in thousands)

Interest Income
Loans	$	9,623		$	9,999		$	10,573		$	10,582		$	10,394		$	9,623		$	10,394
Loans held for sale		137			215			300			213			142			137			142
Securities		1,150			1,151			1,183			1,217			1,231			1,150			1,231
Other investments		31			43			227			40			34			31			34
Total interest income		10,941			11,408			12,283			12,052			11,801			10,941			11,801

Interest Expense
Deposits		5,029			5,638			6,354			6,466			6,227			5,029			6,227
Short-term borrowings		504			500			232			310			493			504			493
Long-term borrowings		119			121			121			121			120			119			120
Total interest expense		5,652			6,259			6,707			6,897			6,840			5,652			6,840
Net interest income		5,289			5,149			5,576			5,155			4,961			5,289			4,961
Provision for (reversal of) credit losses		42			(332	)		(113	)		10			(28	)		42			(28	)
Net interest income after provision for
(reversal of) credit losses		5,247			5,481			5,689			5,145			4,989			5,247			4,989

Noninterest Income
Deposit service charges		59			55			63			67			66			59			66
Other service fees		(9	)		(5	)		(5	)		1			(5	)		(9	)		(5	)
Mortgage banking revenue, net		1,140			1,564			2,264			2,166			1,209			1,140			1,209
Other income		177			192			150			273			163			177			163
Net gains on sale of securities available for sale		0			0			0			0			0			0			0
Unrealized gains (losses) recognized on equity securities		36			(71	)		78			(14	)		(18	)		36			(18	)
Net gains (loss) on sale of SBA loans		161			0			420			0			202			161			202
Net gains on sale of assets and (writedowns)		(12	)		(11	)		(73	)		4,411			10			(12	)		10
Total noninterest income		1,552			1,724			2,897			6,904			1,627			1,552			1,627

Noninterest Expense
Compensation and employee benefits		4,066			4,344			4,852			4,700			4,289			4,066			4,289
Equipment		559			467			504			457			462			559			462
Occupancy and premises		549			500			495			391			436			549			436
Data Processing		221			220			243			208			212			221			212
Federal deposit insurance		129			144			182			219			199			129			199
Professional services		278			240			254			219			199			278			199
Telephone and data communication		52			74			51			51			56			52			56
Insurance		64			71			78			80			81			64			81
Other expense		455			618			504			579			487			455			487
Total noninterest expense		6,373			6,678			7,163			6,904			6,421			6,373			6,421
Income from operations
before income taxes		426			527			1,423			5,145			195			426			195
Income tax expense		105			123			347			1,361			17			105			17
Net income (loss)		321			404			1,076			3,784			178			321			178
Preferred stock dividend		0			0			0			0			0			0			0
Discount from repurchase of preferred stock		0			406			0			0			0			0			0
Net income (loss) allocated to
common stockholders	$	321		$	810		$	1,076		$	3,784		$	178		$	321		$	178

The MIL Network –

April 11, 2025

MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – Catholic Church in Chin State destroyed by airstrike

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Archdiocese of Hakha

Hakha (Agenzia Fides) – Airstrikes by the Burmese army have destroyed the Catholic Church of Christ the King in the town of Falam, in the Diocese of Hakha, part of the Burmese state of Chin, in northwestern Myanmar. According to Fides sources in the Diocese of Hakha, in an area where electricity and telephone lines are down or interrupted, the roof of the church and its interior are devastated, while the walls of the building are still standing.The church was a new structure, built with painstaking effort and sacrifice in recent years to meet the needs of the approximately 1,000 faithful Catholic community in the area. It was finally consecrated in November 2023 last year, replacing the small chapel that had existed for 75 years. The community rejoiced to have found a place to pray and celebrate the sacraments in the midst of the civil war, an oasis of spirituality amidst the violence. “There is now great sadness in the community, but also a desire and determination to rebuild,” the source said.The April 8 bombing of the church was part of the clashes over the town of Falan, which has been the subject of nine months of fighting between the army, which controls the town, and the Chinland Defense Force (CDF), a local militia that emerged in Chin State in opposition to the military junta. CDF fighters surrounded the town, forced the army to flee after fierce fighting, and took control of Falan. At this point, as in so many other conflict scenarios in other Burmese regions, the army began bombing the town from the air or with artillery, and these bombings indiscriminately hit homes, public buildings, and places of worship, including the Church of Christ the King.In the same context, a 36-year-old Protestant Christian pastor and two children (8 months and 7 years old) were killed by shelling in Pwi, in the municipality of Mindat. Another man and a woman were among the victims. Nine other people were injured in the attack, and 10 buildings, including the village’s Christian church, were destroyed.Last February, the Burmese army carried out an aerial attack and damaged the Catholic Sacred Heart Church in Mindat, also in Chin State (see Fides 10/2/2025). The church was to become the cathedral of the newly founded Diocese of Mindat, established by Pope Francis on January 25 of this year.According to the Human Rights Organization of Chin State, at least 107 religious buildings, including 67 churches, were destroyed in Chin State in 2021 by army bombing during the civil war. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 11/4/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – US academic takes reins on Pacific housing research – UoA

Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

Indigenous Hawaiian architect and academic Dr James Miller will soon cross the globe to start a new role at the University of Auckland.

Miller left a role as associate professor at Western Washington University to start at MĀPIHI – Māori and Pacific Housing Research Centre this month.

The 39-year-old will lead MĀPIHI’s research in Pacific housing.

Currently working remotely from Washington, Miller plans to move with his family to New Zealand in July.

The new role appealed partly because of the level of support the University offers Pacific scholars, which is far greater than in most US institutions.

“MĀPIHI is a unique centre that closely aligns with the research I’ve done in the Pacific, particularly in the Marshall Islands and Hawai’i, around housing security,” he says.

Miller grew up listening to stories about life in traditional Indigenous Hawaiian housing communities, known as kauhale. His father passed on stories about his childhood, growing up in a ‘camp’ in Hawaii, where the community lived simply in clusters of small houses. While they enjoyed collective spaces, there was no running water or plumbing.

Miller’s father left Hawai’i for the United States, because of the high cost of living, and has not been able to afford to return to his homeland.

“A core motivation for addressing housing in Hawaii is to secure housing for Native Hawaiians and mitigate the out migration of Hawaiians into the diaspora,” he says.

In 2013, Miller’s doctoral research took him to the Marshall Islands, where his interest in housing for Indigenous people developed. The central focus of his research was climate change adaptation on the low-lying atoll, which is facing severe effects from sea level rise.

Hearing stories of how Japanese and US imperialism had shaped life in the Marshall Islands ignited his interest in strengthening Indigenous design.

In 2023, a housing crisis was declared in Hawai’i, with indigenous Hawai’ians and other Pacific people particularly hard hit.

Property investment and tourism pressures have contributed to rising housing costs and lack of housing availability in Hawai’i, he says.

Miller helped develop strategies and broad brushstroke designs with local nonprofit organizations to provide culturally appropriate housing for Indigenous Hawaiians and Pacific people in Hawai’i.

“I’m looking at tradition, Indigenous ecological knowledge and contemporary technology to see how building design might meet the pressing needs of the present, that will increase in the future,” he says.

One solution is non-profit community land trusts, which buy large tracts of land to offer affordable housing. In some cases, home buyers sign contracts ensuring they will not sell for excessive profits.

Over recent years in Washington, Miller has worked with Coast Salish communities. One project involved helping design 24 houses and community spaces on two acres of land for people experiencing homelessness or addiction. Construction on the development started this week.

He has also been helping the Swinomish community to develop a plan book of culturally supportive housing designs.

At MĀPIHI, Miller plans to work with academics, NGOs, local and central government and professional groups to develop the centre’s Pacific Regional Strategy.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: New Development Bank and National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development Sign MoU to accelerate Infrastructure and Sustainable Development Projects in India

Source: New Development Bank

On April 8, 2025, the New Development Bank (NDB) and the National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID), one of India’s premier development financial institutions (DFI), signed in Mumbai a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic framework for cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including infrastructure and sustainable development projects.

This collaboration will facilitate joint infrastructure investments in India and create a framework for the exchange of technical knowledge.

NaBFID aims to work with NDB on clean energy and transportation projects, including renewable energy initiatives and sustainable water and sewage management, among others. The MoU also lays the foundation for both organisations to participate in infrastructure projects through thematic-level collaborations within their respective mandates.

Additionally, NDB and NaBFID will partner in research and capacity-building initiatives, including seminars and workshops, to promote knowledge sharing and enhance institutional capabilities.

NDB has approved nearly USD 10 billion in loans for 28 major infrastructure projects in India, including the Chennai, Indore, and Mumbai metro systems, the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System, and the Namo Bharat high-speed trains. Additionally, this funding supports the development of urban and rural roads, bridges and highways; water and sanitation; clean energy and USD 2 billion for COVID-19 emergency aid and economic recovery.

Mr. Vladimir Kazbekov, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, NDB, said, “We are delighted to partner with NaBFID to drive India’s infrastructure and social sector development. We are proud of the activities we have undertaken in our founding member country generating a robust USD 10 billion portfolio in a short time span. This MoU reflects our shared vision of fostering economic growth while promoting sustainable and inclusive development.”

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Rajkiran Rai G., Managing Director, NaBFID, said, “This collaboration with NDB marks a significant step in our commitment to nation-building and sustainable development. This MoU will help NaBFID accelerate infrastructure financing in clean energy and social impact projects, creating long-term value for all stakeholders.”

About NDB

The New Development Bank (NDB) is a multilateral development bank established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) with the purpose of mobilising resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs). In 2021, NDB welcomed its first non-founding members and continues to expand, positioning itself as a platform for wider collaboration amongst EMDCs. Since 2015, NDB has committed USD 35.6 billion in financing for 108 projects across sectors such as clean energy, transport, water and sanitation, environmental protection, social and digital infrastructure.

About NaBFID

National Bank for Financing Infrastructure Development (NaBFID) is a Development Financial Institution (DFI) established in April 2021. NaBFID is dedicated to accelerating the development of India’s infrastructure ecosystem by addressing the long-term financing needs of the sector. NaBFID plays a pivotal role in driving the nation’s economic growth and fostering sustainable development.

NaBFID is committed towards its vision of becoming a strong provider of impact investment, catalysing infrastructure funding for transformative growth of India.

NaBFID aims to be a key partner in helping India achieve its ambitious infrastructure development objectives – responsibly and sustainably. Additionally, NaBFID will work towards developing a deep and liquid market for bonds, loans, and derivatives for infrastructure financing.

MIL OSI Economics –

April 11, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: Reserve Bank of India cancels the licence of Shankarrao Mohite Patil Sahakari Bank Ltd., Akluj

Source: Reserve Bank of India

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), vide order dated April 09, 2025, has cancelled the licence of “Shankarrao Mohite Patil Sahakari Bank Ltd., Akluj”. Consequently, the bank ceases to carry on banking business, with effect from the close of business on April 11, 2025. The Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Maharashtra has also been requested to issue an order for winding up the bank and appoint a liquidator for the bank.

The Reserve Bank cancelled the licence of the bank as:

The bank does not have adequate capital and earning prospects. As such, it does not comply with the provisions of Section 11(1) and Section 22 (3) (d) read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
The bank has failed to comply with the requirements of Sections 22(3)(a), 22(3)(b), 22(3)(c), 22(3)(d), and 22(3)(e) read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
The continuance of the bank is prejudicial to the interests of its depositors.
The bank with its present financial position would be unable to pay its present depositors in full; and
Public interest would be adversely affected if the bank is allowed to carry on its banking business any further.

2. Consequent to the cancellation of its licence, “Shankarrao Mohite Patil Sahakari Bank Ltd., Akluj” is prohibited from conducting the business of ‘banking’ which includes, among other things, acceptance of deposits and repayment of deposits as defined in Section 5(b) read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, with immediate effect.

3. On liquidation, every depositor would be entitled to receive deposit insurance claim amount of his/her deposits up to a monetary ceiling of ₹5,00,000/- (Rupees five lakh only) from Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) subject to the provisions of the DICGC Act, 1961. As per the data submitted by the bank, about 99.72% of the depositors are entitled to receive the full amount of their deposits from the DICGC. As on March 31, 2025, DICGC has already paid ₹47.89 crore of the total insured deposits under the provisions of Section 18A of the DICGC Act, 1961, based on the willingness received from the concerned depositors of the bank.

(Puneet Pancholy)
Chief General Manager

Press Release: 2025-2026/86

MIL OSI Economics –

April 11, 2025

Category: Asia

Plastic Parks in IndiaAccelerating Growth of the Polymer-Based Industrial Ecosystem

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi,Uttar PradeshIn the last 10 years, the development of Banaras has gained a new momentum: PM

Italy’s Minister of University and Research Ms Anna Maria Bernini calls on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra SinghThe two Ministers discuss deepening collaboration in Quantum Technologies, AI, and Biotechnology

SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS VISITS MADINAH TO REVIEW PREPARATIONS MADE FOR INDIAN PILGRIMSSECRETARY MEETS SAUDI VICE MINISTER OF HAJ AND UMRAH

WAVES XR Creator Hackathon Winners Bring XR Innovation to Schools, Clinics, Homes, and BeyondFive winning teams will showcase their XR projects at WAVE Summit

Plastic Parks in India

Accelerating Growth of the Polymer-Based Industrial Ecosystem

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi,Uttar Pradesh

In the last 10 years, the development of Banaras has gained a new momentum: PM

Italy’s Minister of University and Research Ms Anna Maria Bernini calls on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh

The two Ministers discuss deepening collaboration in Quantum Technologies, AI, and Biotechnology

SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS VISITS MADINAH TO REVIEW PREPARATIONS MADE FOR INDIAN PILGRIMS

SECRETARY MEETS SAUDI VICE MINISTER OF HAJ AND UMRAH

WAVES XR Creator Hackathon Winners Bring XR Innovation to Schools, Clinics, Homes, and Beyond

Five winning teams will showcase their XR projects at WAVE Summit