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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Global: Facing annexation threats, should Canadians lament for a nation — like George Grant did in 1963?

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By David Edward Tabachnick, Professor of Political Science, Nipissing University

    A decades-old lament for Canada is back on some Canadians’ minds as United States President Donald Trump makes repeated annexation threats.

    Canadian political philosopher George Grant’s Lament for a Nation was published in 1965 — the same year Canada’s iconic Maple Leaf flag was first unfurled on the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill — and unexpectedly inspired many Canadians to feel a sudden sense of pride and confidence that their country could and must stand up to its giant imperialistic neighbour to the south.

    Sixty years later, there are calls to “Bring Back Grumpy George” and renew his decades-old warning. There are also attempts to understand Grant’s continued relevance in the 21st century, as well as new volumes on his work.

    Canadian nationalist movement of 70s

    On the face of it, Grant’s slim volume may seem the perfect tonic for what ails Canada today. Consider that William Christian, Grant’s biographer, called its publication “one of the most significant factors in creating the Canadian nationalist movement of the 1970s” while esteemed journalist Charles P.B. Taylor dubbed it “a Bible for younger nationalists.”

    It “is the sun under which a generation of Canadian nationalists warm themselves,” Andrew Potter writes in his introduction to the 40th anniversary edition of Grant’s most famous work, “but it also casts the long dark shadows in which they must operate.”

    One need only wade a little into the volume to see those “the long dark shadows.” The subtitle to Grant’s book says it all: The Defeat of Canadian Nationalism. So, far from being a call to arms, Lament for a Nation was, as Grant put it, a “cry out at the death or at the dying of something loved…[to mourn] the end of Canada as a sovereign state.”

    In other words, Lament was never intended to whip Canadians into a nationalist fervour, but to spell out Canada’s unfortunate and inevitable disappearance as a nation.

    ‘Blending into the (U.S.) empire’

    By this logic, the next six decades of failed strategies to diversify the Canadian economy and stillborn plans to grow its military are symptoms of a disease that had already killed the patient; Canada is the zombie nation, an apparently democratic electoral system without real substance. Grant wrote:

    “Canada has ceased to be a nation, but its formal political existence will not end quickly. Our social and economic blending into the empire will continue apace, but political union will probably be delayed. Some international catastrophe or great shift of power might speed up this process.”

    For Grant, Canada’s original death knell was acquiescence to American demands that it accept their nuclear weapons on its soil. While Canada had both the technical ability and practical capacity to build its own bombs after the Second World War, leaders decided against it.

    Jack Mackenzie, first president of Atomic Energy Control Board, explained in a 1953 address: “Canada is the only country in the world with sizeable atomic energy establishments where no bombs are being made, and where all the thinking and planning is focused on peacetime aspects.”

    But in the context of the Cold War, this principled choice was viewed as a sign of weakness by Americans, who worried about Soviet bombers travelling unrestricted over the Arctic.

    Defence crisis

    This worry led to the so-called defence crisis that dominated the federal 1963 election campaign, fought between Conservative Prime Minister Diefenbaker and Liberal Lester B. Pearson.

    A beleaguered Diefenbaker had cancelled the vaunted Avro Arrow program a few years earlier, hesitated to commit the Navy to participate in the blockade of Cuba and then balked at accepting American warheads for the BOMARC interceptor missiles designed to stop those bombers.

    The pugnacious Pearson was once a champion of non-proliferation and had shocked his supporters during his infamous Scarborough speech when he announced his surprising agreement that U.S. nukes had to be deployed on Canadian soil in the name of our “commitments for Canada in continental and collective defence,” including NORAD and NATO.

    For Grant, Diefenbaker’s defeat to Pearson was a stake through the heart of the Canada from which it would never recover. In 1963, the Royal Canadian Air Force delivered a shipment of nuclear warheads to the BOMARC missile site near RCAF Station North Bay, Ont., just up the road from where I write today.

    End of Canadian nationalism?

    A few years before his passing in 1988, Grant made it clear in a 1985 interview with Lawrence (Larry) Schmidt, a theologian and a scholar of Grant’s work, that “people have read a little book I wrote called Lament for a Nation wrongly. I was talking about the end of Canadian nationalism. I was saying that this is over and people read it as if I was making an appeal for Canadian nationalism. I think that is just nonsense. I think they just read it wrongly.”

    Today, Canadian economic well-being and security are no more in Canada’s control then they were in 1965. Trump is merely saying the quiet part out loud in his craven desire to make Canada the 51st state.

    Was Grant wrong?

    But, as it turns out, Grant was wrong. Canada is not the zombie nation. It may have been in a bit of daze for the last while, but Canadians have their elbows up again.



    Read more:
    Why Gordie Howe’s elbows are Canada’s answer to Donald Trump

    Now out of a stupor, Canadians are reviewing the wisdom of purchasing F-35s, buying new radar systems to assert our sovereignty over the Arctic and attempting to drop interprovincial trade barriers.

    Mind you, this is nothing new. In the face of American disapproval, Canada trades with Cuba, claims the Northwest Passage as its internal waters and negotiated a successful Acid Rain Treaty. Canada led the charge to ban the use of land mines and refused to participate in the American missile shield plan.

    Canada didn’t send its young men to die in the jungles of Vietnam and refused to participate in the ill-conceived Iraq War. And it still protects its fresh water and health care.

    New policy for common cause

    Still, rather than merely reacting to American insults and pressures, Canada is long overdue to develop contemporary and responsive policy, the very thing Grant thought would allow Canada to become and stay a sovereign country, at least for a while.

    As writer and historical researcher Mark Wegierski notes, this could unite conservatives and progressives in common cause.

    While Canadians may be divided at times, they need to use this moment of unity to make sure Canada stays alive and kicking.

    David Edward Tabachnick does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Facing annexation threats, should Canadians lament for a nation — like George Grant did in 1963? – https://theconversation.com/facing-annexation-threats-should-canadians-lament-for-a-nation-like-george-grant-did-in-1963-252337

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends Working Dinner hosted by Ambassador of the Australia to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this evening attended a Working Dinner hosted by Ambassador of Australia to ASEAN, H.E. Tiffany McDonald, in Jakarta. Both sides took the opportunity to take stock and exchange views on ASEAN-Australia cooperation, including through identifying ways to advance the ASEAN-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in support of priorities of ASEAN in 2025.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN attends Working Dinner hosted by Ambassador of the Australia to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: 1.5 million-year-old bone tools discovered in Tanzania rewrite the history of human evolution

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Jackson K Njau, Associate professor, Indiana University

    The ancestors of humans started making tools about 3.3 million years ago. First they made them out of stone, then they switched to bone as a raw material. Until recently, the earliest clear evidence of bone tool making was from sites in Europe, dated to 400,000 years ago. But archaeologists have now found and dated bone tools in Tanzania that are a million years older.

    The tools are made from the bones of large animals like hippos and elephants, and have been deliberately shaped to make them useful for butchering large carcasses.

    The discovery of bone implements that are the oldest ever found, by far, casts light on human evolution. It shows that our hominin ancestors were able to think about and make this technology a lot earlier than anyone realised.

    I am a scientist who co-directs a multidisciplinary research project team at the Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania, focusing on hominin evolution. Our project’s main goal has been to investigate the changes in hominin technology and behaviour that happened between 1.66 million and 1.4 million years ago.

    We’re interested in this time period because it marks a pivotal change in human technology, from the rudimentary stone knives and cores of the Oldowan culture to the more advanced crafted stone handaxes of the Acheulean culture.

    We found the Olduvai bone tools in 2018 and recently described them in the journal Nature. They show that by 1.5 million years ago, our ancestors (Homo erectus) had already developed the cognitive abilities required to transfer skills from making stone tools to making bone tools.

    This leap in human history was a game-changer because it allowed early hominins to overcome survival challenges in landscapes where suitable stone materials were scarce.

    Tools at Olduvai

    Olduvai Gorge is a Unesco World Heritage site. It became well known in 1959 through the pioneering work of palaeontologists Louis and Mary Leakey, whose discoveries of early human remains reshaped our understanding of human evolution. The site offers an unparalleled window into human history, spanning nearly 2 million years.



    Read more:
    Finds in Tanzania’s Olduvai Gorge reveal how ancient humans adapted to change

    Aside from fossilised bones, it has yielded the most detailed record of stone tool cultures in the world. It has documented the evolution from the simple chopping tools and stone knives of the Oldowan industry (about 2 million years ago) to the more advanced Acheulean tools (1.7 million years ago), such as handaxes, cleavers, picks and spheroids and then on – through arrowheads, points and blades (about 200,000 years ago) to the micro-blades of the Later Stone Age (about 17,000 years ago).

    All these tools provide a glimpse into the ingenuity and cultural advancements of our early ancestors.

    And now the picture has new detail.

    Our team uncovered 27 ancient bone tools during excavations at the T69 Complex, FLK West site at Olduvai. We know how old they are because we found them securely embedded underground where they had been left 1.5 million years ago, along with thousands of stone artefacts and fossilised bones. We dated them using geochronological techniques.

    Unlike stone, bone shafts crack and break in a way that allows the systematic production of elongated, well-shaped artifacts. Flaking them by hitting them with another object – a process called knapping – results in pointed tools that would be ideal for butchering, chopping and other tasks.

    The knapped tools we found were made from large shaft fragments that came from the limb bones of elephants and hippos, and were found at hippo butchery sites. Hominins likely brought elephant bones to the site on a regular basis, and obtained limb bones from butchered hippos at the site itself.

    What Homo erectus knew

    The find shows that 1.5 million years ago, Homo erectus could apply knapping skills to bone. Homo erectus, regarded as the evolutionary successor to the smaller-brained Homo habilis, left a lasting imprint on history. Its fossils, found at Olduvai, offer a glimpse into a span of about a million years, stretching from 1.5 million to roughly 500,000 years ago.

    Now we know that these hominins not only understood the physical properties of bones but also knew about skeletal anatomy. They could identify and select bones suitable for flaking. And they knew which animals had skeletons large enough to craft reliable tools after the animals’ death.



    Read more:
    Large mammals shaped the evolution of humans: here’s why it happened in Africa

    We don’t know exactly why they chose bones as a raw material. It may have been that suitable stone material was scarce, or they recognised that bones provided a better grip and were more durable.

    Why haven’t such old bone tools been found before? The answer is likely that they are destroyed by weathering, abrasion from water transport, trampling and scavenger activity. Organic materials don’t always get time to fossilise. Also, analysts were not used to looking for bone tools among fossils.

    This discovery will likely encourage researchers to pay closer attention to the subtle signs of bone knapping in fossil assemblages. This way we will learn more about the evolution of human technology and behaviour.

    Jackson K Njau does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. 1.5 million-year-old bone tools discovered in Tanzania rewrite the history of human evolution – https://theconversation.com/1-5-million-year-old-bone-tools-discovered-in-tanzania-rewrite-the-history-of-human-evolution-251826

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 21 March 2025 Departmental update WHO partners with Thailand and Sri Lanka to pilot a new tool to combat and address infodemics

    Source: World Health Organisation

    To help countries strengthen their capacity to respond quickly during crises—including the dissemination of critical information and understanding the factors influencing this—WHO has partnered with the Ministries of Health in Sri Lanka and Thailand to pilot a new global Information Environment Assessments (IEA) tool and training package. Funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the new IEA tool is designed to help countries identify the factors influencing how communities’ access, process, exchange, engage with, understand, and share information.

    To read more please click on the link.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Travel Advisory: Temporary Closures Needed for Gano Street at I-195 Overpass for Nearby Washington Bridge Demolition

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    On the weekend of Saturday and Sunday, March 29 and 30, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) will temporarily close a section of Gano Street, at the I-195 overpass between India Street and the I-195 West on ramp in Providence, for continued demolition of the Washington Bridge substructure.

    The closures will be needed from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, while the demolition contractor removes the upper most sections of the old bridge piers close to the road. During the closures, drivers will follow signed detours using India Street, Wickenden Street and South Main and South Water streets. The on-ramp to I-195 West at Gano Street will remain open. Pedestrians should detour using Wickenden Street, East Street, the India Point Park pedestrian bridge, and India Street. The closures are scheduled for daytime hours to avoid any disruptive noise during evening hours.

    For approximately two weeks following this weekend work, alternating single-lane closures are likely at this location from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to finalize demolition in this area. Pedestrian access will be maintained, and the on-ramp from Gano Street to I-195 West will remain open.

    Depending on the pace of demolition on Saturday, the duration of Sunday’s planned closure may be shortened or canceled.

    All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings, and weather.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Brings 100x Leverage, Double Deposit Bonus, and No KYC to Crypto Futures Trading

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The cryptocurrency landscape is shifting, and BexBack is leading the charge with a groundbreaking approach to crypto futures trading. As the market evolves, many traders face challenges with complex KYC procedures, limited leverage, and high fees. But BexBack is here to change all of that, offering 100x leverage, no KYC, and an incredible double deposit bonus to help traders maximize their potential with ease.

    Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just beginning your journey, BexBack makes it simple for anyone, anywhere to access 100x leverage on crypto futures, without the need for identity verification, and double your funds instantly with the 100% deposit bonus. This offers you the power to trade with confidence and flexibility.

    What Is 100x Leverage?

    100x leverage allows you to control a much larger trading position with a smaller initial deposit. For example, with 1 BTC and 100x leverage, you can trade as if you had 100 BTC, giving you the potential for much higher returns in a volatile market. It’s a powerful tool that allows traders to maximize their profits—though it’s important to manage risk effectively to avoid liquidation.

    What Is the 100% Deposit Bonus and How Does It Work?

    The 100% deposit bonus means that when you deposit 0.001 BTC or equivalent in other cryptocurrencies, you will receive an instant 100% bonus on each deposit. This is not just limited to your first deposit but applies to every deposit you make. For example, deposit $10,000, and you’ll trade with $20,000. This bonus is an excellent way to increase your trading power, giving you more margin and more opportunities to profit. However, the bonus cannot be withdrawn directly, but it can be used to open larger positions and increase your overall potential profits.

    Who Can Trade on BexBack Without KYC?

    BexBack offers a no KYC (Know Your Customer) policy, meaning you can start trading immediately without the need for identity verification. Whether you’re new to crypto or a seasoned trader, this quick registration process ensures you can dive straight into trading without delays. It’s perfect for those who value privacy and don’t want to go through the tedious paperwork that other platforms require.

    What Is BexBack?

    BexBack is a cutting-edge cryptocurrency exchange specializing in futures trading with up to 100x leverage. The platform is designed to provide users with a seamless, secure, and powerful trading experience. BexBack operates globally, offering traders access to major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), XRP (Ripple), and Cardano (ADA). Based in Singapore, with a rapidly growing user base across over 200 countries, BexBack is committed to providing exceptional service and

    Why Choose BexBack? What Are the Key Advantages?

    • 100x Leverage for All Traders – Amplify your trading potential with up to 100x leverage on your positions.
    • No KYC Required – Start trading immediately without needing to provide identity documents.
    • 100% Deposit Bonus – Double your funds instantly with a 100% deposit bonus on every deposit.
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    • Global Access – Trade from anywhere, anytime, with access to a global user base.

    Start Trading on BexBack Today

    Whether you’re looking to maximize profits in volatile markets, gain access to high-leverage trading, or simply enjoy a no-KYC trading experience, BexBack has everything you need to succeed.

    Sign up now at www.bexback.com and claim your 100% deposit bonus along with a $50 welcome bonus. Take control of your crypto trading journey with BexBack today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

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

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    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Currency Chest operations on March 31, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    RBI/2024-25/129
    DCM (CC) No.S3811/03.51.001/2024-25

    March 24, 2025

    All Currency Chest (CC) holding banks

    Madam / Dear Sir

    Currency Chest operations on March 31, 2025

    In terms of instructions contained in circular DOR.CO.SOG(Leg)No.59/09.08.024/2024-25 dated February 11, 2025, all branches of the banks dealing with Government receipts and payments are to be kept open for transactions on March 31, 2025 (Monday-Public Holiday), so as to account for the Government transactions in FY 2024-25 itself. Since such transactions might necessitate operations at CCs, the banks are advised to keep their CCs open on March 31, 2025, akin to a normal working day.

    2. The CC holding banks shall keep the linked branches suitably informed.

    Yours faithfully,

    (Sanjeev Prakash)
    Chief General Manager-in-Charge

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: India: Financial Sector Assessment Program, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Financial Sector Assessment Program (FSAP), a joint program of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (WB), undertakes a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of a country’s financial sector. Since September 2010 the exercise has become mandatory for jurisdictions with systemically important financial sectors. Currently, it is mandatory for 32 jurisdictions including India, every five years, and for another 15 jurisdictions every ten years. Last FSAP for India was conducted in 2017 and the Financial System Stability Assessment (FSSA) report was published by IMF on 21st December, 2017.

    2. IMF released the latest India-FSSA report on their websites on February 28, 2025, based on the assessment carried out during 2024, while WB’s Financial Sector Assessment (FSA) report is due for publication.

    3. India welcomes assessment of the Indian financial system undertaken by the joint IMF-World Bank team conforming to the highest international standards.

    4. IMF’s FSSA report highlights that India’s financial system has become more resilient and diverse since the last FSAP in 2017, driven by rapid economic growth. Financial Sector in India has shown recovery from various distress episodes of 2010s and withstood the pandemic well. In terms of evolution of financial sector landscape, Non-Banking Financial Intermediaries (NBFI) sector has become diverse but more interconnected. Banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) have sufficient aggregate capital to support moderate lending even in severe macrofinancial scenarios.

    5. On regulation and supervision of NBFCs, IMF acknowledged India’s systematic approach for prudential requirements of NBFCs with scale based regulatory framework. IMF appreciated India’s approach on introduction of bank-like Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) for large NBFCs. For supervision of banks, IMF suggested strengthening credit risk management through IFSR 9 adoption and upgrading supervision over individual loans, collateral valuation, connected borrower groups, large exposure limits, and related-party transactions.

    6. IMF acknowledges that the regulatory framework in securities markets has been enhanced in line with international practice to manage and prevent emerging risks. Notable improvements include establishing the Corporate Debt Market Development Fund (CDMDF), introducing swing pricing and liquidity requirements for bond mutual funds. The regulatory scope has also been expanded over emerging areas such as sustainability and investor protection measures for fast-growing equity derivatives products.

    7. IMF has stated that public digital infrastructures have significantly improved retail financial inclusion and recommended that financially underserved sectors’ access to credit can be enhanced by strengthening legal, tax, and informational infrastructures for asset-based and digital lending.

    8. The FSSA report acknowledges that India’s insurance sector is strong and growing, with a significant presence in both life and general insurance. The sector has remained stable, supported by better regulations and digital innovations. The report notes India’s progress in improving oversight, risk management and governance and suggests further steps toward riskbased solvency / supervision frameworks and stronger group supervision. It acknowledged transition plans towards risk-based approach in the insurance sector. This reflects India’s commitment to global best practices and a resilient insurance sector.

    9. IMF recommends that financial stability should be the primary objective of the macroprudential authorities.

    10. In terms of emerging risks, cybersecurity, climate change and system-wide contagion need attention. Financial stability risks from climate change appear manageable but warrant careful monitoring. The assessment suggested enhanced data coverage with better granularity for mapping climate-related financial risks.

    11. IMF also analysed cyber security framework in banking sector, Financial Market Infrastructure (FMI), Critical Information Systems, and other relevant players in securities market. IMF found that Indian authorities have advanced cybersecurity risk oversight, especially for banks. However, IMF stated that extensive cybersecurity crisis simulations and stress tests for banks could be expanded for cross-sectoral and market-wide events to further strengthen cybersecurity resilience.

    12. The recommendations in case of India FSAP are mainly focussed on bringing about further improvements in the structure and functioning of the financial system and many of the detailed recommendations are in conformity with the concerned authorities’/regulators’ own developmental plans. India remains committed to adoption of internationally accepted standards and best practices in a phased manner, attuned to domestic needs and economic conditions, wherever necessary.

    The FSSA released by IMF can be accessed at:

    (https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/CR/Issues/2025/02/28/India-Financial-Sector-Assessment-Program-Financial-System-Stability-Assessment-562815)

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2449

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Egg prices soar as outdated supply chains crack under pressure

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jack Buffington, Associate Professor of Practice in Supply Chain Management, University of Denver

    Experts predict that egg prices will keep climbing in 2025. Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    There may be no kitchen table issue in America more critical than the price of food.

    So when the price of eggs rose over 40% from 2024 to 2025, it became a headline news story in Colorado and across the nation.

    Public officials and the media blamed high egg prices on bird flu outbreaks and said containing the outbreak in supply chains would lower prices. In early March 2025, egg prices fell in the U.S., but these trends are likely to reverse due to higher seasonal demand during Easter and Passover.

    Rising prices and market volatility have led to food costs climbing to 11.4% of American’s disposable income, the largest percentage since 1991.

    Arresting these rising costs, as I argue in my 2023 book, means reinventing supply chains to address the growing supply, demand and price volatility that has created uncertainty for consumers since the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020.

    I have described global supply chains, and supply chains in the U.S. in particular, as “efficiently broken.” By this I mean that they aspire to offer low prices from economies of scale but lack sufficient resiliency to create stability.

    Without addressing the systemic weaknesses in supply chains, I believe major health and economic disruptions will continue to happen in Colorado, nationally and around the world.

    Cage-free eggs

    Colorado faces a double whammy where egg prices are concerned.

    It’s one of nine states with a cage-free egg mandate, which requires all eggs sold in the state to come from cage-free facilities. The regulation has been shown to increase the price of eggs by as much as 50%.

    Over the past two decades, cage-free egg laws have been passed in states as consumers have grown more concerned with the welfare of farm animals. What that means varies from state to state because the term cage-free isn’t regulated by a federal agency. In Colorado, egg-laying hens must be housed in a cage-free system and must have a minimum of 1 square foot of usable floor space per hen.

    Colorado is the 28th largest egg producer in the U.S., far behind Midwestern states such as Iowa, Indiana and Ohio, but it has a few large producers such as Morning Fresh Farms, as well as smaller ones such as the Colorado Egg Producers Association, a collection of seven family-owned farms.

    Colorado’s cage-free egg law went into effect in January 2025 – around the same time that consumers noticed bare egg shelves at their supermarkets. Many consumers and some elected Republicans in Colorado blamed the cage-free law.

    Nevada is pulling back on its cage-free egg mandate to deal with the challenge of unaffordable egg prices.

    But cage-free laws are not the main driver of increasing egg prices, as I’ve noted in my research. Like many others, the egg supply chain needs to be reinvented to balance price, scale, resiliency and stability.

    Supply chain issues

    What is driving up the prices of eggs and other consumer goods is the concentration of producers. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed just how vulnerable prices and supply chains are.

    Five years ago this month, when the pandemic started, many products became unavailable and more expensive.

    In 2022, a major product recall of Similac led to a baby formula shortage in the U.S. The baby formula market is highly concentrated, with four companies responsible for approximately 90% of the domestic market. A large-scale facility that produced the baby formula was found to have unsanitary conditions and contaminated products. Pulling this one facility offline at the same time the nation was coping with pandemic-related supply chain issues led to the shortage.

    Supply chain issues led to a U.S. shortage of baby formula in 2022.
    Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    Then at the beginning of 2024, supplies of insulin ran short due to production issues at Eli Lilly, one of the three companies responsible for over 90% of the U.S. insulin market.

    And in the second half of 2024, hospitals couldn’t get enough IV fluid due to damage caused by Hurricane Helene to a Baxter factory in North Carolina that manufactures approximately 60% of IV fluids in the U.S. This factory had been relocated to North Carolina from Puerto Rico due to the supply impact from Hurricane Maria that damaged the island in 2017.

    In all of these cases, the supply chain was easily interrupted due to a reliance on a few large producers. In 2025, bird flu and eggs are just another example of America’s “efficiently broken” supply chain.

    Bird flu and cost of eggs

    In the U.S., the top five egg producers are responsible for 40% of hens, with Mississippi-based Cal-Maine Foods alone responsible for 13% of total U.S. production.

    An average-sized production facility in the U.S. can house 75,000 to 500,000 hens. Large facilities can house over 4 million. The mass production of eggs from these facilities means eggs are, in stable times, cost effective for the American consumer. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, eggs in the U.S. never surpassed $3 a dozen, and it was an affordable food solution compared with processed foods.

    But this scale and efficiency comes at the price of resiliency during something like a bird flu outbreak. Larger farms create a higher risk of viral outbreak, which leads to the need for culling millions of birds and a heightened risk of viral replication and mutation.

    The solution may increase prices

    Policymakers want to reduce the spread of disease at American egg factories to mitigate the spread of bird flu. But these measures are expensive.

    Factory farms increase the potential for viruses to spread rapidly and even mutate. Therefore, bird flu is a more serious precursor of supply chain disruption than a hurricane or product recall because it has the potential to create a public health crisis.

    One solution to limit the spread of bird flu is to regulate the number of hens allowed in a single facility. This would lead to smaller and more farms across the U.S., but also higher consumer prices.

    This solution would mirror other countries such as Canada, where the average facility size is much smaller than in the U.S. and eggs and poultry cost significantly more. That’s why – under the terms of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement – Canada has quota and tariff protection from American companies flooding its market with eggs and poultry that would cost consumers two to three times less.

    Yet in March 2025, the price of eggs in Canada is 50% cheaper than eggs in the U.S. because the country has not suffered the same damages from bird flu.

    Following Canada’s lead wouldn’t result in egg prices as low as giant factory farms, but it would protect American consumers from the periodic price shocks caused by disease or localized weather events that disrupt supplies.

    Despite the threat of a public health crisis, American consumers don’t want to pay more for eggs – and their leaders have promised they won’t have to.

    Read more of our stories about Colorado.

    Jack Buffington does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Egg prices soar as outdated supply chains crack under pressure – https://theconversation.com/egg-prices-soar-as-outdated-supply-chains-crack-under-pressure-251425

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Japanese anime draws on religious traditions to explore themes of destiny, sacrifice and the struggle between desire and duty

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Ronald S. Green, Professor and Chair of the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Coastal Carolina University

    Kyojuro Rengoku, also known as the Flame Hashira, is a central character in the ‘Demon Slayer’ series. Deviant Art, CC BY-ND

    I have spent years studying and teaching Japanese anime, exploring how its narratives intertwine with cultural, philosophical and religious traditions. One of the most compelling aspects of Japanese anime is its ability to merge thrilling action with deep spiritual and ethical questions.

    “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train,” which shattered Japanese box-office records for earnings and ended up as 2020’s highest-grossing film in the world, is a prime example of how anime engages with these profound themes. With “Demon Slayer” continuing its global success, it is an opportune time to examine how it intertwines Buddhist, Shinto and samurai traditions into a narrative of heroism, impermanence and moral struggle.

    Spiritual themes in anime

    Anime often explores spiritual and philosophical questions by drawing on Japan’s religious traditions to examine themes of fate, self-sacrifice and the struggle between desire and duty.

    Hayao Miyazaki’s “Princess Mononoke,” for example, follows Prince Ashitaka, who is cursed by a demon and must journey to find a cure. His quest leads him into a conflict between the industrialized Irontown, which seeks to expand by clearing forests, and the spirits of the natural world, including the Deer God, a divine being that governs life and death.

    The film reflects Shinto principles by portraying nature as sacred and inhabited by “kami,” or spiritual beings. It emphasizes harmony between humans and the environment and the consequences of disrupting this balance.

    Scholar Melissa Croteau, in her book “Transcendence and Spirituality in Japanese Cinema,” notes how Miyazaki’s films use nature spirits to critique modernity’s detachment from the sacredness of the environment.

    A still from ‘Spirited Away’ in which 10-year-old Chihiro must learn to navigate an unseen world.
    GoodFon.com, CC BY-NC

    Similarly, his 2001 animated film “Spirited Away” reflects animist ideas in Japanese culture, where spirits are believed to inhabit natural elements and even everyday objects. Set in a mysterious Japanese bathhouse filled with “kami,” 10-year-old Chihiro, once shy and afraid of change, learns to navigate this hidden world and transforms along the way.

    A key moment in the film is the arrival of a polluted river spirit, which appears as a filthy, sludge-covered creature but is revealed to be a once-pristine river god, burdened by human waste. This scene embodies the animist belief that natural entities have their own spirit and must be respected. It also reinforces an environmental message: When nature is polluted or mistreated, it loses its vitality, but with care and reverence it can be restored.

    “Neon Genesis Evangelion,” a landmark Japanese anime television series that aired from 1995 to 1996, engages with deep philosophical ideas, particularly existentialist questions of identity and purpose. Set in a postapocalyptic world, the series follows 14-year-old Shinji Ikari, who is recruited to pilot a giant biomechanical weapon called an evangelion to defend humanity against mysterious beings known as Angels.

    As Shinji and his fellow pilots struggle with their roles, the series explores themes of isolation, self-worth and the challenges of forming close, meaningful relationships. It draws from both Buddhist and Gnostic thought, which emphasize a focus on inner spiritual knowledge and the belief that clinging too tightly to the material world causes suffering. Evangelion portrays suffering as arising from attachment and the inability to form meaningful relationships.

    Rengoku: The embodiment of selfless heroism

    What sets “Mugen Train” apart is its focus on the internal conflicts of its characters, symbolized by their battles with demons. These demons represent human suffering and attachment, themes deeply influenced by Buddhist thought. At the heart of the film is Kyojuro Rengoku, a demon slayer who embodies unwavering selflessness and honor.

    Rengoku’s flame-breathing forms.

    Rengoku’s fire-based fighting style is deeply symbolic. In Japanese culture, fire represents both destruction and renewal. The Kurama Fire Festival, held annually on Oct. 22 in Kyoto, is a Shinto ritual where large torches are carried through the streets to ward off evil and purify the land.

    Similarly, Buddhist goma fire ceremonies involve priests burning wooden sticks in sacred flames to symbolize the eradication of ignorance and desire. Rengoku’s own techniques reflect this duality: His flames cleanse the world of evil while signifying his unwavering spirit.

    Goma fire ritual.

    Bushido, the samurai code of honor, underpins Rengoku’s character. Rooted in Confucian ethics, Zen Buddhism and Shinto beliefs, this code emphasizes loyalty, self-sacrifice and duty to protect others. His mother’s teaching – “The strong must protect the weak” – guides his every action, reflecting the Confucian value of filial piety and the moral obligation to serve society.

    Bushido’s connection to Zen Buddhism, with its focus on discipline and acceptance of impermanence, further shapes Rengoku’s unwavering resolve, while its Shinto influences reinforce his role as a guardian upholding a sacred duty.

    Even approaching death, Rengoku remains steadfast, accepting impermanence, or “mujō,” a fundamental Buddhist principle that sees beauty in life’s transience. His sacrifice teaches that true strength lies in selflessness and moral integrity.

    Akaza: A manifestation of attachment and suffering

    Opposing Rengoku is Akaza, a demon who embodies the destructive consequences of clinging to power and immortality. Once human, Akaza became a demon in his obsession with strength, unable to accept the impermanence of life.

    His refusal to acknowledge death aligns with Buddhist teachings that suffering arises from attachment and desire. Scholars such as Jacqueline Stone have explored how Buddhist texts portray clinging to existence as a fundamental source of suffering, a theme vividly reflected in Akaza’s character.

    Visual elements reinforce Akaza’s symbolism. His body is covered in tattoos reminiscent of “irezumi,” traditional Japanese body art historically associated with crime and hardship. In Edo-period Japan, tattoos were often used to mark criminals, branding them as outcasts from society. Even today, irezumi remains stigmatized in many parts of Japan, with some public bathhouses, gyms and swimming pools barring individuals with visible tattoos due to their historical association with the yakuza. In contemporary anime, tattooed characters frequently symbolize a troubled past or inner turmoil, reinforcing Akaza’s role as a figure trapped by his own suffering and destructive path.

    Akaza’s irezumi visually conveys his entrapment in cycles of suffering, reinforcing his contrast with Rengoku’s liberating flames.

    A battle about human struggles

    The battle between Rengoku and Akaza is more than a fight between good and evil; it is a clash between two worldviews – selflessness versus egoism, acceptance versus attachment. “Mugen Train” taps into universal human struggles, making its themes resonate far beyond Japan.

    The film’s exploration of impermanence, moral duty and the pursuit of meaning contributes to anime’s broader legacy as a medium that entertains while provoking deep philosophical reflection.

    As “Demon Slayer” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, evidenced by social media buzz around its new projects and the ongoing enthusiasm of fans, its success underscores anime’s ability to blend action with profound themes.

    Whether through Rengoku’s selfless courage or Akaza’s tragic downfall, “Mugen Train” offers a timeless meditation on what it means to live with purpose and integrity.

    Ronald S. Green does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How Japanese anime draws on religious traditions to explore themes of destiny, sacrifice and the struggle between desire and duty – https://theconversation.com/how-japanese-anime-draws-on-religious-traditions-to-explore-themes-of-destiny-sacrifice-and-the-struggle-between-desire-and-duty-246960

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Aviation safety regulations amended

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Starting from April 7, local airlines should not allow their passengers to use lithium battery power banks nor store these in overhead compartments during flights, the Civil Aviation Department announced today.

     

    The department said it is highly concerned over recent safety breaches suspected to have been caused by passengers carrying and using power banks on aircraft.

     

    After departmental officials met representatives from local airlines on Friday, the department issued its updated requirements regarding power banks today, with a view to enhancing safety.

     

    Passengers are advised to direct any queries about the latest regulations to relevant airlines before flying.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank Acts as Joint Global Coordinator on Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA)’s second EUR 750mn Senior Eurobond due 2028

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    CAIRO, Egypt, March 24, 2025/APO Group/ —

    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has successfully acted as Joint Global Coordinator and Joint Lead Manager on second EUR 750 million RegS-only senior Eurobond issuance by the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (“BADEA”) due March 2028 under its existing Euro Medium-Term Note (EMTN) programme listed on London Stock Exchange.

    The bond proceeds will fund general corporate purposes including loan book growth in Sub-Saharan Africa under BADEA’s 9th Strategic Plan 2025-2029.

    BADEA is a multilateral development lending institution established in 1974 and headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.  It is owned by 18 League of Arab States (LAS) to channel development finance to 44 non-Arab Sub-Saharan African countries.

    The bond issuance was 3.0x oversubscribed by more than 60 high-quality institutional investors comprising central banks, asset managers, development finance institutions, pension funds and commercial banks from Europe, UK, Middle East, Africa and Asia. Proactive investor engagement by BADEA since debut issuance as well as market momentum enabled the issuer to upsize transaction by 50% versus original target as well as tighten credit spread by 15bps over 4-day marketing roadshow. The transaction eventually priced at 75bps over EUR mid-swaps rate with annual coupon 3.000%, thus achieving material enhancements versus debut 2024 bond issuance in terms of issuance size, credit spread and final coupon respectively.

    Afreximbank, through its Advisory and Capital Markets (ACMA) department, acted as Joint Global Coordinator and Joint Lead Manager to BADEA on this bond transaction for the second consecutive time alongside international banking partners.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: The Gender Pay Gap Stalls in 2025 – Payscale’s Research Shows

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Despite pay transparency laws, wage equity progress continues to stall nationwide, with systemic barriers still limiting women’s earning potential.
    • The “childbearing penalty” remains highly evident, as women with children continue to earn just 75 cents for every dollar fathers make, while fathers make 2% more than childless men.
    • While the gender pay gap showed gradual improvement from 2018 to 2022, progress has remained stagnant since the Great Resignation, with declines especially evident among older women.

    SEATTLE, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Payscale Inc., the leading provider of compensation data, software and services, released its 2025 Gender Pay Gap Report (GPGR), revealing that despite pay transparency laws, the closing of the gender pay gap has stalled nationwide, with systemic barriers still limiting women’s earning potential.

    Payscale’s analysis found that in 2025 women still earn just 83 cents for every dollar men make. While this is unchanged from last year, according to AAUW, Equal Pay Day shifted back more than two weeks this year, meaning that women must work that much longer to achieve the same earnings as men in 2025, compared to 2024. The controlled gender pay gap also remains the same as last year, at 99 cents. The controlled gender pay gap is the amount that women earn for every dollar that a man earns when accounting for job title and compensable factors, while the uncontrolled gender pay gap is the difference in median pay for men and women overall.

    “Even though our 2025 Compensation Best Practices Report showed a minor decrease in support for pay equity (57%), and there has been a recent weakening of public support around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) of late, some states have shown promising progress towards closing the gender pay gap,” said Ruth Thomas, pay equity strategist at Payscale. “While not every state has enacted pay transparency laws, which are shown to support pay equity efforts, many organizations are still staunchly committed to the cause. In fact, compared to 2020, there has been a 19% increase in corporate commitment to these efforts.”

    Key takeaways from GPGR:

    Working Parents — Motherhood continues to hurt pay equity, while fathers get a raise as a result of the childbearing penalty.

    • Women with children face a significantly wider gender pay gap, earning just 75 cents for every dollar fathers make—unchanged from last year.
    • This gap is even wider for women of color, with American Indian and Alaska Native mothers experiencing the largest disparity, earning just 64 cents for every dollar fathers earn.
    • When controlling for job roles and experience, mothers earn 98 cents for every dollar earned by fathers with similar characteristics, a figure that has remained steady.
    • Meanwhile, fatherhood financially benefits men, who earn 2% more than childless men, while mothers face stagnant or reduced pay compared to childless women.

    Job Seeking — Women seeking new jobs are closing the pay gap, but parenting responsibilities and workplace flexibility keep many stuck with lower wages.

    • The gender pay gap is narrower for women actively seeking a new job in the next six months compared to those not looking, suggesting that a willingness to leave positions may lead to higher pay.
    • Yet, this uncontrolled gender pay gap slightly widened this year to $0.83 from $0.84 last year, indicating slower progress overall.
    • Women who stay in their current job may do so due to benefits they can’t afford to lose, such as flexible work schedules, which can result in tolerating lower pay.
    • Workplace culture, flexibility, and work-life balance may be more important to women than men when deciding whether to stay with an employer, potentially influencing their pay trajectory.

    Higher Education — Despite earning advanced degrees like MBAs, law degrees, and health professional doctorates, women still face a significant pay gap, highlighting that education alone doesn’t guarantee pay equity.

    • Women with MBAs face the largest uncontrolled pay gap, earning just 77 cents for every dollar earned by men with the same degree.
    • Health professional doctorates have the smallest uncontrolled pay gap at 89 cents, while women with law degrees earn 87 cents for every dollar men with the same degree make, marking a slight decrease from last year.

    Leadership and Career Progress — Not only do women earn less as their career progresses, they’re also less likely to reach leadership roles.

    • White men are the most likely to hold leadership positions, with 45% serving as managers or in higher roles. Women are underrepresented in leadership roles, with only 5% of white women becoming executives compared to 7% of white men. The numbers are even lower for women of color: 3% for Hispanic women, 4% for Black or African American women, and 3% for Asian women.
    • Women who do ascend the corporate ladder earn less than their male counterparts, with the gap widening at higher levels. Women at the executive level earn 93 cents for every dollar men make, even when controlling for job characteristics, and just 72 cents when not controlling for these factors.
    • The gender pay gap is widest for Hispanic women and American Indian and Native Alaskan women at the executive level when data are controlled, currently standing at 91 cents, which is two points narrower than 2024.

    Gender Norms — While STEM industries show progress toward pay equity, traditional gender norms continue to widen the gap in other sectors.

    • The biggest pay gaps appear in occupations with deep-rooted gender norms, including Legal (63 cents), Farming & Fishing (77 cents), and Management (79 cents), where men dominate top-paying positions.
    • The gender pay gap is also widest in Finance & Insurance (78 cents) and Agencies & Consultancies (84 cents) industries, despite women making up 53% and 59% of the workforce in these industries, respectively.
    • Even in female-dominated industries like Healthcare (89 cents), Education (91 cents), and Nonprofits (88 cents), pay disparities persist.
    • Some STEM-heavy industries show pay equity when controlled, but women remain underrepresented in higher-paying roles within these industries.

    Location – States with and without salary transparency laws have seen improvements in the controlled gender pay gap, likely due in part to increased awareness from transparency efforts in other regions or companies adopting national pay transparency practices.

    • In 2025, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont and Massachusetts will enact pay transparency legislation.
    • The controlled pay gap remained closed in 2025 for California, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington, D.C. – all showed closed pay gaps last year, and, except for New Jersey and Oregon, have active pay transparency laws.
    • While other states continue to show improvement, Massachusetts, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, New Mexico, Vermont, and Washington state have seen their gaps widen.
    • New gains are emerging in Alabama, Delaware, Nebraska, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, and West Virginia, where the controlled pay gap has recently closed.

    “It’s disappointing to still see a lack of progress towards closing the gender pay gap. Beyond being the right thing to do, ensuring fair pay without discrimination is required by law. This fact alone should support closing the gender pay gap. Even more, it’s a critical retention tool for businesses, which is why, unsurprisingly, women employees frequently leave organizations because they don’t think they are being paid fairly,” said Lulu Seikaly, senior corporate employment attorney at Payscale. “Pay transparency has an important role to play here, because when an employee has an understanding of their compensation trajectory it increases trust and loyalty. Our 2025 Compensation Best Practices Report revealed that over half (56%) of companies are sharing pay ranges in their job postings regardless of whether or not it’s required by law — a promising nod to the future of fair pay.”

    According to Payscale’s 2025 Compensation Best Practices Report, 72% of HR and compensation professionals believe that gender pay gap research is meaningful. Paired with Payscale’s compensation management software and services enable organizations to easily evaluate their current compensation strategies and standardize their internal pay practices to increase transparency and ensure fair pay.

    The 2025 Gender Pay Gap Report analyzes crowdsourced data from over 369,000 people in the U.S. who took Payscale’s free online salary survey between January 2024 and January 2025. The full report and its methodology, including analysis by race, job level, age, education, industry, occupation, and location, can be accessed in its entirety at Payscale.com/research-and-insights/gender-pay-gap.

    About Payscale
    As the industry leader in compensation management, Payscale is on a mission to help job seekers, employees, and businesses make sustainable fair pay a reality. Empowering 65% of the Fortune 500, Payscale provides a combination of diverse and dynamic data sources, experienced compensation services, and scalable software to enable organizations such as Panasonic, ZoomInfo, Chipotle, AccentCare, University of Washington, American Airlines, and PetSmart to make fair and appropriate pay decisions.

    Pay is powerful.

    To learn more, visit www.payscale.com.
      
    Contact: Press@Payscale.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: StarTree Awarded 2025 Confluent Data Flow ISV Partner of the Year – APAC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — StarTree, the cloud-based real-time analytics company, today announced it has been named the 2025 Confluent Data Flow ISV Partner of the Year – APAC. The award recognizes StarTree’s exceptional commitment to driving customer value through Confluent’s data streaming platform, alongside other global Confluent partners.

    “We’re incredibly honored to be named the 2025 Confluent Data Flow ISV Platform Partner of the Year for APAC. This recognition highlights the powerful synergy between StarTree and Confluent—bringing together best-in-class data streaming and real-time analytics platforms to help businesses unlock the full potential of their data,” said Jen Murphy, VP, Channels & Alliances, StarTree. “Confluent provides the foundation for streaming data at scale, while StarTree ensures that data is instantly analyzed and actionable. Together, we enable organizations to make faster, smarter decisions, and we’re excited to keep pushing the boundaries of real-time analytics with Confluent.”

    The Confluent Partner Awards for APAC recognizes regional partners that go above and beyond to deliver transformative customer value with data streaming–whether that’s through real-time business solutions or implementing cutting-edge technologies. The 10 regional award categories reflect the many ways partners across system integrations, cloud service providers, and technology partners leverage Confluent’s complete data streaming platform to connect, stream, govern, and process data as it happens.

    StarTree provided outstanding services and solutions as the Data Flow ISV Partner of the Year – APAC. This award recognizes a partner that leveraged Confluent to create and deliver a comprehensive and compelling solution that made a significant impact across an industry and/or region.

    “The Asia Pacific market thrives on the power of interconnected ecosystems, where success is achieved through strong regional collaboration,” said Sandeep Shirodkar, Director of Partner Success APAC, Confluent. “Our 2025 Confluent Partner Awards in Asia Pacific demonstrate the exceptional impact local partnerships have in transforming how businesses operate with data streaming across diverse economies. Together, we are accelerating results for real-time outcomes.”

    StarTree and Confluent are a natural fit, seamlessly combining the strengths of real-time streaming and real-time analytics into a unified data platform. Both Apache Kafka® and Apache Pinot®, the open-source technologies respectively behind Confluent and StarTree, originated at LinkedIn to address the challenges of traditional batch-based data systems—enabling businesses to move from delayed insights to instant intelligence. Today, this partnership continues to redefine what’s possible with real-time data. With Confluent providing a best-in-class data streaming platform and StarTree delivering sub-second analytics at scale, organizations can unlock the full value of their data as it flows.

    In 2024, StarTree consumed more data than any other real-time database natively integrated with Confluent Cloud. StarTree was also recognized as Confluent’s 2023 Integration ISV Partner of the Year, highlighting our sustained commitment to each other and the immense value we jointly bring to the market.

    StarTree continues to thrive as a trusted and strategic partner in the channel, driving growth and innovation with its real-time analytics solutions. By offering seamless integrations with leading platforms such as Confluent, Tableau, AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, StarTree empowers its channel partners to deliver scalable and reliable insights that simplify complex business challenges. With a strong focus on collaboration, StarTree provides its ecosystem of hyperscalers, technology providers, and system integrators with the tools, resources, and expertise necessary to succeed in the rapidly evolving data landscape. Through flexible purchasing options in top cloud marketplaces and a commitment to building long-term relationships, StarTree ensures that its partners have everything they need to meet the dynamic needs of modern enterprises, ultimately delivering transformative value to customers worldwide.

    Supporting Resources

    Learn More about the StarTree + Confluent Partnership

    RTA Summit 2025 including joint presentation by Confluent and StarTree on Real-Time Analytics in Gaming

    About StarTree

    At StarTree, we understand the urgency of the on-demand economy and help businesses like Citi, Stripe, DoorDash, Nubank, Zomato, and Dialpad deliver real-time analytics into their user-facing applications. StarTree Cloud, powered by Apache Pinot™, is a fully-managed real-time analytics Database-as-a-Service (DBaaS). StarTree’s platform is built to power insights for millions of users at massive speed and scale, and a fraction of the cost of alternatives. Whether user-facing apps, or backend APIs and microservices, real-time analytics are now a required component powering internal and customer-facing dashboards. With StarTree, customers unlock the full potential of their data while exceeding millions of user expectations. StarTree is closely partnered with analytics leaders such as AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft, Confluent, Databricks and others to help customers achieve their real-time analytics goals.

    Additional information may be found at www.startree.ai | Twitter: @startreedata | YouTube: youtube.com/@StarTree | Blog: startree.ai/blog | LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/startreedata/

    Media Contact:

    Beth Winkowski
    PR for StarTree
    978-649-7189
    beth@winkowskipr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Activist group praises Pacific support for West Papua but slams NZ

    By Christine Rovoi of PMN News

    A human rights group in Aotearoa New Zealand has welcomed support from several Pacific island nations for West Papua, which has been under Indonesian military occupation since the 1960s.

    West Papua is a region (with five provinces) in the far east of Indonesia, centred on the island of New Guinea. Half of the eastern side of New Guinea is Papua New Guinea.

    West Papua Action Aotearoa claims the Indonesian occupation of West Papua has resulted in serious human rights violations, including a lack of press freedom.

    Catherine Delahunty, the group’s spokesperson, says many West Papuans have been displaced as a result of Indonesia’s military activity.

    In an interview with William Terite on PMN’s Pacific Mornings, the environmentalist and former Green Party MP said most people did not know much about West Papua “because there’s virtually a media blackout around this country”.

    “It’s an hour away from Darwin [Australia], and yet, most people don’t know what has been going on there since the 1960s. It’s a very serious and tragic situation, which is the responsibility of all of us as neighbours,” she said.

    “They [West Papuans] regard themselves fully as members of the Pacific community but are treated by Indonesia as an extension of their empire because they have all these natural resources, which Indonesia is rapidly extracting, using violence to maintain the state.”

    Delahunty said the situation was “very disturbing”, adding there was a “need for support and change alongside the West Papuan people”.

    UN support
    In a recent joint statement to the United Nations Human Rights Council, the leaders of Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Marshall Islands, Sāmoa and Vanuatu called on the global community to support the displaced people of West Papua.

    A Free West Papua rally. Image: Nichollas Harrison/PMN News

    Delahunty said the Pacific island nations urged the UN Council to advocate for human rights in West Papua.

    She also said West Papua Action Aotearoa wanted Indonesia to allow a visit from a UN human rights commissioner, a request that Indonesia has consistently denied.

    She said Sāmoa was the latest country to support West Papua, contrasting this with the “lack of action from larger neighbours like New Zealand and Australia”.

    Delahunty said that while smaller island nations and some African groups supported West Papua, more powerful states provide little assistance.

    “It’s great that these island nations are keeping the issue alive at the United Nations, but we particularly want to shout out to Sāmoa because it’s a new thing,” she told Terite.

    “They’ve never, as a government, made public statements. There are many Sāmoan people who support West Papua, and I work with them. But it’s great to see their government step up and make the statement.”

    Benny Wenda (right), a West Papuan independence leader, with Eni Faleomavaega, the late American Sāmoan congressman, a supporter of the Free West Papua campaign. Image: Office of Benny Wenda/PMN News

    Historically, the only public statements supporting West Papua have come from American Sāmoan congressman Eni Faleomavaega, who strongly advocated for it until he died in 2017.

    Praise for Sāmoa
    Delahunty praised Sāmoa’s support for the joint statement but voiced her disappointment at New Zealand and Australia.

    “What’s not encouraging is the failure of Australia and New Zealand to actually support this kind of joint statement and to vigorously stand up for West Papua because they have a lot of power in the region,” she said.

    “They’re the big states, and yet it’s the leadership of the smaller nations that we see today.”

    In September 2024, Phillip Mehrtens, a pilot from New Zealand, was released by West Papua rebels after being held captive for 19 months.

    Mehrtens, 39, was kidnapped by West Papua National Liberation Army fighters in February 2023 and was released after lengthy negotiations and “critical’ diplomatic efforts by authorities in Wellington and Jakarta.

    New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Affairs Minister Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters welcomed his release.

    New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens was kidnapped by militants in West Papua on 7 March 2023. He was released 19 months later. Image: TPNPB/PMN News

    Why is there conflict in West Papua?
     Once a Dutch colony, the region is divided into five provinces, the two largest being Papua and West Papua. It is separate from PNG, which gained independence from Australia in 1975.

    Papuan rebels seeking independence from Indonesia have issued threats and attacked aircraft they believe are carrying personnel and delivering supplies for Jakarta.

    The resource-rich region has sought independence since 1969, when it came under Indonesia’s control following a disputed UN-supervised vote.

    Conflicts between indigenous Papuans and Indonesian authorities have been common with pro-independence fighters increasing their attacks since 2018.

    The Free Papua Movement has conducted a low-intensity guerrilla war against Indonesia, targeting military and police personnel, along with ordinary Indonesian civilians.

    Human rights groups estimate that Indonesian security forces have killed more than 300,000 West Papuans since the conflict started.

    But the Indonesian government denies any wrongdoing, claiming that West Papua is part of Indonesia and was integrated after the controversial “Act of Free Choice” in 1969.

    Manipulated process
    The Act of Free Choice has been widely criticised as a manipulated process, with international observers and journalists raising concerns about the fairness and legitimacy of the plebiscite.

    Despite the criticism, the United States and its allies in the region, New Zealand and Australia, have supported Indonesia’s efforts to gain acceptance in the UN for the pro-integration vote.

    Human rights groups, such as Delahunty’s West Papua Action Aotearoa, have raised “serious concerns” about the deteriorating human rights situation in Papua and West Papua.

    They cite alarming abuses against indigenous Papuans, including child killings, disappearances, torture, and mass displacement.

    Delahunty believes the hope for change lies with the nations of Te Moana Nui a Kiwa. She said it also came from the younger people in Indonesia today.

    “This is a colonisation issue, and it’s a bit like Aotearoa, in the sense that when the people who have been part of the colonising start addressing the issue, you get change. But it’s far too slow. So we are so disappointed.”

    Republished with permission from PMN News.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Nagano Lean Body Tonic Benefits, Ingredients, and Real Results Explained

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLMADGE, Ohio, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Individuals are constantly searching for practical solutions to weight management and overall vitality in a world increasingly focused on health and wellness. Nagano Lean Body Tonic emerges as a promising contender in dietary supplements, offering a unique blend of natural ingredients designed to support weight loss, boost energy levels, and enhance overall health. This potent elixir is not merely about shedding pounds; it aims to rejuvenate the body and improve the quality of life. The formula is rooted in traditional wisdom, drawing inspiration from Japanese practices that have stood the test of time. With the rise of obesity and lifestyle-related diseases, the need for effective solutions has never been more critical. Nagano Lean Body Tonic is crafted to meet this demand, targeting stubborn fat areas while promoting a healthier metabolism. This article will delve deep into the formulation, benefits, and science behind this remarkable product, providing the information you need to make an informed decision about your health journey.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic – Essential Overview

    Product Type:

    Natural Weight Management Formula

    Core Ingredients:

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is crafted from a potent blend of science-backed botanicals and plant-based extracts, including:

    • Camu Camu – A powerful antioxidant fruit rich in vitamin C
    • EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) – A green tea extract known for enhancing fat oxidation
    • Mangosteen – A tropical superfruit with anti-inflammatory and metabolism-supportive properties
    • Ashwagandha – An adaptogen that supports stress reduction and cortisol balance
    • Panax Ginseng – Used to promote energy, stamina, and metabolic health
    • Momordica Charantia (Bitter Melon) – Traditionally used to aid in blood sugar regulation
    • Acerola Cherry – Packed with antioxidants to support immunity and wellness
    • Alfalfa Leaf – A fiber-rich green known for its detoxifying properties
    • Eleuthero Root (Siberian Ginseng) – Helps combat fatigue and supports vitality.
    • Ginger Root – Aids in digestion and supports thermogenesis
    • Inulin (Prebiotic Fiber) – Promotes healthy gut bacteria and digestive function.
    • Cinnamon Cassia – Known for balancing blood sugar and supporting metabolism

    Key Benefits of Nagano Lean Body Tonic:

    • Promotes Natural Weight Loss – Helps activate fat-burning mechanisms through enhanced metabolic function
    • Encourages Restful Sleep – Supports relaxation and deep sleep, essential for weight management
    • Supports Digestive Wellness – With prebiotic fiber and gut-friendly herbs
    • Increases Daily Energy & Focus – Combats fatigue while supporting a more active lifestyle
    • Enhances Overall Vitality – Provides antioxidant protection and immune system support.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic Pricing & Bundle Deals:

    • 1 Bottle: $69 + standard shipping
    • 3 Bottles: $59 per bottle (total $177) – Free shipping included
    • 6 Bottles: $39 per bottle (total $234) – Free shipping included

    Risk-Free Purchase Guarantee:

    All purchases are backed by a 180-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try Nagano Lean Body Tonic with peace of mind.

    Where to Buy:

    Visit the official site to place your order and learn more: leanbodytonic.com

    Product Overview

    Formulation

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is meticulously crafted from a blend of carefully selected natural ingredients, each chosen for its unique properties that contribute to weight loss and overall wellness. The formulation targets metabolism, energy levels, and appetite control, making it an all-encompassing solution for those looking to transform their bodies. This emphasis on natural ingredients ensures the product is safe and beneficial for your health.

    Key Ingredients

    The tonic features a range of powerful ingredients, including Camu Camu, EGCG from green tea, Mangosteen, Panax ginseng, Momordica charantia, Ashwagandha, Acerola, eleuthero root, Alfalfa Leaf, Cinnamon, Cacao, Ginger, Inulin, and a proprietary blend of eight super antioxidants. Each ingredient is vital in enhancing metabolic function and promoting fat loss.

    Bottle Contents

    Each bottle of Nagano Lean Body Tonic contains a 30-day supply of the elixir, designed for daily use. This ensures a consistent intake of the beneficial nutrients necessary for achieving desired health outcomes.

    Guarantee

    The manufacturer’s confidence in Nagano Lean Body Tonic is evident in its 180-day money-back guarantee. If users do not experience satisfactory results, this assurance of a full refund makes it a risk-free investment in their health, reinforcing the product’s effectiveness and the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

    Cost

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic offers various purchasing options designed to provide significant savings. The pricing includes $79 for a single bottle, $59 per bottle when purchasing three, and an impressive $39 for six bottles. Each package comes with valuable bonuses, enhancing the overall value and making it a cost-effective choice for those serious about their health.

    What is Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is a unique dietary supplement that supports weight loss and boosts overall health. This potent elixir combines traditional Japanese ingredients known for their health benefits with modern nutritional science. The tonic aims to awaken a dormant metabolism, making weight loss more straightforward and enjoyable. Providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants helps combat the fatigue often associated with dieting, allowing users to maintain their energy levels throughout the day. The elixir is designed for daily consumption, with a simple mix of one scoop of water or a favorite beverage each morning. This easy incorporation into a morning routine ensures that users can seamlessly integrate it into their lifestyle, enhancing their chances of long-term success.

    The formulation is rooted in the philosophy that natural ingredients can effectively support bodily functions. By targeting multiple aspects of health—such as metabolism, energy levels, and digestive health—Nagano Lean Body Tonic offers a comprehensive approach to wellness. This holistic approach ensures that your health is cared for in a well-rounded manner.

    Who is Nagano Lean Body Tonic Specifically For?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is designed for individuals serious about improving their health and wellness. It caters to a diverse audience, including:

    1. Weight Watchers: For those aiming to shed pounds, the tonic provides a natural way to support metabolism and fat loss. Its blend of ingredients helps to minimize cravings and enhances the body’s ability to burn calories efficiently.
    2. Busy Professionals: Many professionals struggle to maintain energy levels throughout the day. Nagano Lean Body Tonic offers a convenient solution, boosting energy and vitality that can combat fatigue and improve focus.
    3. Fitness Enthusiasts: The tonic’s ability to enhance endurance and recovery can benefit individuals engaged in regular workout routines. The ingredients support muscle function and energy production, helping to maximize workout results.
    4. Health-Conscious Individuals: Nagano Lean Body Tonic appeals to those who prioritize their health and seek to incorporate natural supplements into their diets. It is formulated with high-quality, natural ingredients that align with a holistic approach to wellness.
    5. Aging Adults: As metabolism naturally slows with age, many older adults may struggle with weight management. This tonic can help support healthy metabolism and vitality, making it suitable for individuals over 40 looking to maintain their health.

    Does Nagano Lean Body Tonic Work?

    The effectiveness of Nagano Lean Body Tonic lies in its carefully selected ingredients, each with scientific backing for their health benefits. Many users have reported positive outcomes, including weight loss, increased energy, and improved mental clarity after integrating the tonic into their daily routine. This scientific backing reassures you about the product’s effectiveness and potential to improve your health.

    Clinical studies have shown that several of the tonic’s ingredients, such as EGCG from green tea and Camu Camu, have significant properties that support weight loss and metabolic health. For example, EGCG has been linked to increased fat oxidation and improved metabolic rates. Similarly, Camu Camu is noted for its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties, which can enhance metabolic function.

    While individual results may vary, the combination of ingredients in Nagano Lean Body Tonic aims to synergize and amplify the overall benefits. Users are encouraged to adopt a holistic approach to health, combining the tonic with a balanced diet and regular exercise for optimal results. Many testimonials support the product’s efficacy, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable supplement for those seeking to improve their health.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic Real Customer Reviews and Testimonials

    Customer feedback for Nagano Lean Body Tonic has been overwhelmingly positive, with many users expressing satisfaction with their results. Claire S. from Dayton, OH, shared her success story: “After putting on weight during quarantine, I felt discouraged. I started using Nagano Tonic nine weeks ago and noticed a significant difference in my cravings and appetite. I stepped on the scale this morning and am delighted—this is a game changer!”

    Similarly, Mike C. from Ann Arbor, MI, noted, “I started using Nagano Tonic just over a month ago and saw immediate improvements in my weight loss efforts. I love the taste and now have much more energy without feeling jittery.”

    Hazel W. from Norfolk, VA, added, “I wanted to look great for my high school reunion, so I decided to give this a shot. After using Nagano Tonic for two months, I was thrilled with my results and felt amazing.”

    These testimonials highlight not only the effectiveness of the tonic but also the positive changes in lifestyle and confidence that users experience. The collective feedback from real customers is a testament to the product’s potential in fostering healthier living.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic: Support your wellness journey naturally.

    The Science Behind Nagano Tonic: How Traditional Ingredients Support Modern Metabolic Health

    As we age, our metabolism slows down, energy levels decline, and maintaining a healthy weight becomes more difficult. Nagano Tonic, a unique blend of traditional botanical ingredients inspired by Japanese and Eastern medicine, is gaining attention for its potential to support metabolism, thermogenesis, and weight management. Nevertheless, what does the science say?

    This article explores the research-backed mechanisms of Nagano Tonic’s key ingredients—from green tea and ginger to camu camu and ashwagandha—and how they contribute to metabolic health, inflammation reduction, and body composition.

    Understanding the Aging-Metabolism Connection

    Aging naturally reduces basal metabolic rate (BMR)—the number of calories our bodies burn at rest. Studies show that this decline in BMR is primarily due to a loss in lean muscle mass and hormonal shifts. A 1993 study by Shimokata and Kuzuya documented these changes, revealing that metabolic efficiency decreases with age, especially without proper dietary and activity adjustments.

    A 1998 paper in Metabolism by Piers et al. confirmed that older adults exhibit reduced energy expenditure, even when accounting for body composition. This highlights the importance of interventions that can reignite metabolic activity—something Nagano Tonic aims to do.

    Thermogenesis: Your Inner Furnace

    One of the most promising approaches to boosting metabolism is through thermogenesis, the body’s process of heat production that burns calories. According to Hursel and Westerterp-Plantenga (2010), specific food-derived bioactives can stimulate thermogenesis, aiding weight control. Nagano Tonic includes several such thermogenic compounds.

    Green Tea Extract: A Proven Metabolic Enhancer

    Green tea (Camellia sinensis) is one of the most studied ingredients for metabolism. Its active polyphenols, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have significantly boosted thermogenesis and fat oxidation. According to Ohishi et al. (2021), green tea polyphenols enhance metabolism and offer potent antioxidant protection.

    A 2016 clinical trial by Chen et al. found that high-dose green tea extract led to meaningful weight loss and improved lipid profiles in overweight adults. Another study (Campbell et al., 2016) demonstrated increased resting metabolic rate in women after a single dose of a green tea thermogenic supplement.

    Additionally, green tea has been declared safe in regulated doses, according to Jiang Hu et al. (2018), making it an effective and reliable cornerstone of Nagano Tonic’s formula.

    Ginger: Igniting Energy Expenditure

    Ginger (Zingiber officinale) offers more than just flavor—it is a metabolism booster supported by multiple randomized controlled trials. A 2019 meta-analysis by Maharlouei et al. found that ginger significantly reduced body weight and waist-to-hip ratio in overweight individuals.

    In rodent studies (Sayed et al., 2020), ginger water improved energy expenditure and reduced fat accumulation. Furthermore, a comprehensive 2020 review by Nguyen et al. highlighted ginger’s thermogenic, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering effects, supporting its role in holistic metabolic health.

    Camu Camu: A Gut-Microbiome Ally

    A lesser-known superfruit, Camu Camu (Myrciaria dubia), offers remarkable metabolic benefits by modulating the gut microbiota. Research published in Gut (Anhê et al., 2019) found that camu camu supplementation altered the composition of gut microbes to prevent obesity in mice.

    Additionally, its high levels of vitamin C and polyphenols exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as Inoue et al. (2008) demonstrated, further supporting metabolic balance and immune resilience.

    Bitter Melon: The Natural Insulin Sensitizer

    Momordica charantia, or bitter melon, is traditionally used for blood sugar regulation—modern science backs this up. A 2013 review by Joseph and Jini reported that bitter melon improves insulin sensitivity, reduces blood glucose, and aids lipid metabolism.

    Bitter melon can indirectly reduce fat accumulation and improve energy utilization by improving glucose control and inflammation, making it a brilliant addition to Nagano Tonic.

    Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients for Metabolic Repair

    Chronic low-grade inflammation, marked by elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), is both a cause and effect of obesity. A 2020 study by Qiling Li et al. confirmed that high CRP levels contribute to adult-onset obesity through inflammatory pathways.

    Nagano Tonic tackles this head-on with anti-inflammatory botanicals like cinnamon, turmeric, and ashwagandha.

    Cinnamon: A Spice for Fat Regulation

    Cinnamon has demonstrated the ability to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. Hamidpour et al. (2015) discussed cinnamon’s impact on angiogenesis and metabolic health, while a 2020 meta-analysis by Mousavi et al. linked cinnamon supplementation with significant reductions in body weight, BMI, and fat mass.

    Turmeric: Anti-Gout and Anti-Fatigue Properties

    Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been shown to reduce inflammation markers and oxidative stress. Kiyani et al. (2019) explored its benefits in gout and inflammation, but its antioxidant power also contributes to improved metabolic health, particularly in those dealing with obesity-linked inflammation.

    Ashwagandha: Adaptogenic Stress Support

    Chronic stress is another hidden trigger for weight gain. Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, has shown promise in stress reduction and weight management. In a 2017 study, Choudhary et al. found that ashwagandha supplementation reduced cortisol levels and supported healthy body composition under chronic stress conditions.

    A 2019 clinical trial published in Cureus further confirmed its anxiolytic and energy-boosting effects, which are key to maintaining a sustainable, active lifestyle as we age.

    Ginseng and Eleuthero: Traditional Tonics with Modern Benefits

    Korean Red Ginseng

    A study by Song et al. (2014) demonstrated that Korean red ginseng alters gut microbiota in a way that positively influences obesity markers. Ginseng also lowers CRP levels, as noted in a 2019 meta-analysis by Saboori et al., further supporting its inclusion in Nagano Tonic’s anti-inflammatory arsenal.

    Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian Ginseng)

    This herb, known as Siberian ginseng, boosts physical endurance and metabolic efficiency. A study by Kuo et al. (2010) showed improved human endurance capacity, while further analysis by Huang et al. (2011) highlighted its anti-fatigue benefits. Hashimoto et al. (2020) found that Eleuthero modulates metabolic proteins in fat and muscle cells, supporting its role in energy regulation.

    Acerola & Alfalfa: Micronutrient-Dense Enhancers

    Acerola Cherry

    Acerola (Malpighia emarginata) is an underutilized superfruit rich in vitamin C, polyphenols, and antioxidants. Prakash and Baskaran (2018) state that its bioactive compounds support immune function, oxidative stress reduction, and collagen synthesis, indirectly contributing to a healthier metabolism.

    Alfalfa

    Often overlooked, alfalfa (Medicago sativa) has demonstrated blood glucose-lowering properties in animal and human studies. Amraie et al. (2015) showed that alfalfa extracts help regulate blood sugar and lipids. Raeeszadeh et al. (2021) noted its neuroprotective and antioxidant effects, which benefit aging adults with metabolic syndrome.

    Mangosteen and Inulin: Gut & Glucose Optimization

    Mangosteen Extract

    Mangosteen is a tropical fruit with potent xanthones and shows strong insulin-sensitizing effects. A 2018 randomized trial by Watanabe et al. found that mangosteen improved insulin sensitivity and supported weight loss in obese women, likely through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.

    Inulin: The Fiber for Fat Loss

    Inulin, a prebiotic fiber, has been shown to reduce visceral fat and improve metabolic profiles. A 2015 randomized trial by Guess et al. demonstrated that inulin supplementation led to meaningful reductions in weight and ectopic fat among prediabetic individuals. By feeding healthy gut bacteria, inulin supports improved digestion, hormone balance, and energy metabolism.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic: Inspired by nature, designed for you.

    Nagano Tonic’s Synergistic Science

    Nagano Tonic is more than a blend of exotic ingredients—it is a strategic, science-backed formula that targets the root causes of slow metabolism, weight gain, inflammation, and energy depletion.

    Each component contributes to a comprehensive metabolic revival, from the thermogenic effects of green tea and ginger to the gut-boosting benefits of camu camu, inulin, and ginseng. Meanwhile, anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic ingredients like turmeric, cinnamon, and ashwagandha protect against modern lifestyle stressors and aging-related metabolic decline.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic: Pros and Cons

    When considering Nagano Lean Body Tonic, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision. Here is a detailed analysis:

    Pros

    • Natural Ingredients: The tonic is formulated with high-quality, natural ingredients known for their health benefits.
    • Comprehensive Benefits: It addresses multiple health aspects, including fat loss, energy boost, and mental clarity.
    • User Testimonials: Many users report positive experiences and successful weight management.
    • Money-Back Guarantee: The 180-day satisfaction guarantee provides reassurance for new users.
    • Convenient Use: The tonic can easily be incorporated into daily routines, promoting consistency.

    Cons

    • Individual Results May Vary: While many users report success, results can differ based on personal factors such as diet and exercise.
    • Availability: Nagano Lean Body Tonic is only available through the official website, which limits some consumers’ purchasing options.
    • Initial Cost: The price may be considered high for some, mainly if individuals are unsure about the product’s effectiveness.

    By carefully considering these pros and cons, potential users can make an informed choice about integrating Nagano Lean Body Tonic into their health regimen.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic: Usage, Integration, and Purchase Guide

    How to Use Nagano Lean Body Tonic Effectively

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic has been formulated for simplicity and convenience, making it easy to include in any daily routine. The powdered formula dissolves quickly in water, requiring just one scoop mixed into a glass to deliver its full range of benefits. This straightforward method of consumption promotes consistency, which is essential for long-term health improvements.

    While Nagano Lean Body Tonic can be taken at any time, developing a consistent habit—such as consuming it in the morning or before a workout—can help ensure daily adherence and maximize results.

    Combining Nagano Lean Body Tonic with Other Supplements

    Many individuals use multiple supplements to address different wellness goals. However, it is vital to consider ingredient overlap when combining products. The ingredients in Nagano Lean Body Tonic are designed to work synergistically. Taking similar supplements concurrently may diminish the tonic’s intended balance or effectiveness.

    Following the recommended serving size and usage guidelines is crucial to avoid unintended interactions. Consulting the product label and directions ensures proper use and helps support the body’s natural balance.

    Professional Guidance Before Beginning Any Supplement Regimen

    Before incorporating Nagano Lean Body Tonic into your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions, allergies, or are taking prescription medications, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional. Personalized medical advice ensures that the supplement aligns with your unique health needs and supports your goals safely and effectively.

    Enhancing Results with Healthy Lifestyle Habits

    While Nagano Lean Body Tonic is designed to assist with weight management and metabolic support, the results are most noticeable when paired with a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity—whether through structured workouts, walking, or yoga—can naturally boost metabolism and energy levels.

    Likewise, a balanced diet of whole foods enhances the tonic’s benefits. Nutrient-dense meals that include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats support digestive health and help sustain energy throughout the day.

    Incorporating stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness can also play a significant role. Stress impacts metabolism and sleep, and managing it holistically can further enhance the benefits provided by Nagano Lean Body Tonic.

    Purchasing Nagano Lean Body Tonic: Packages, Pricing, and Exclusive Bonuses

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic can be purchased exclusively through the official website. Flexible package options are available for new users and long-term wellness plans.

    Available Packages:

    • Single Bottle: $69 + shipping
    • Three Bottles: $59 each (total $177) with free shipping
    • Six Bottles: $39 each (total $234) with free shipping

    These tiered options allow customers to start with a smaller commitment or maximize savings with a bulk purchase.

    Included Digital Bonuses

    Each order of Nagano Lean Body Tonic includes three complimentary digital guides created to support your overall health journey:

    • The Anti-Aging Blueprint – Strategies for boosting energy, improving sleep, and supporting vitality.
    • Sleep The Fat Off – A guide to understanding how sleep quality influences metabolism and weight loss.
    • Energy-Boosting Smoothies – A collection of easy-to-make smoothie recipes to maintain energy and reduce cravings.

    These resources are designed to complement the benefits of the tonic and provide practical lifestyle support.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic: A refreshing way to support vitality.

    180-Day Money-Back Guarantee

    To ensure a risk-free experience, Nagano Lean Body Tonic is backed by a 180-day money-back guarantee. This allows users to try the product with confidence. If results do not meet expectations, a full refund can be requested within the trial period.

    More Nagano Lean Body Tonic Actual User Reviews and Testimonials

    The positive experiences of users highlight the effectiveness of Nagano Lean Body Tonic. Many individuals have shared their success stories, illustrating the tonic’s transformative impact on their lives. Users praise not only the weight loss results but also the increased energy and improved mental clarity they experience after regular use.

    For example, Emily R. from Denver, CO, stated, “I have struggled with my weight for years, and nothing seemed to work until I tried Nagano Tonic. I have lost 15 pounds in just two months and feel more energized than ever!”

    Similarly, James T. from Chicago, IL, commented, “This tonic has been a game-changer for me. Not only have I lost weight, but I also feel sharper and more focused at work.”

    These testimonials provide valuable insights into Nagano Lean Body Tonic’s real-life benefits, reinforcing its reputation as an effective supplement for weight management and overall health.

    Are There Side Effects to Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    While Nagano Lean Body Tonic is formulated with natural ingredients, some users may experience mild side effects. Possible side effects can include digestive discomfort, such as bloating or gas, particularly for individuals sensitive to specific ingredients like Inulin. Additionally, those sensitive to caffeine may experience jitters from the EGCG present in the formula.

    Potential users should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. This precaution helps ensure that the tonic is suitable for individual health needs. Most users tolerate Nagano Lean Body Tonic well, appreciating its natural formulation and beneficial effects.

    Who Makes Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is produced by a reputable company dedicated to formulating high-quality dietary supplements. The manufacturer adheres to strict quality control standards and sources ingredients from trusted suppliers. The tonic is crafted in an FDA-registered facility, ensuring it meets rigorous safety and efficacy guidelines.

    The company’s commitment to transparency and quality is evident in its approach to product development. By focusing on natural ingredients and scientific research, the manufacturer aims to provide consumers with practical and safe supplements that align with their health goals.

    Does Nagano Lean Body Tonic Work?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is backed by potent ingredients that support weight management and overall health. Many users report positive results, including weight loss, increased energy, and improved mental clarity. The scientific research surrounding the individual ingredients further supports the tonic’s effectiveness, highlighting their roles in boosting metabolism and promoting fat loss.

    While individual experiences may vary, the synergy created by combining ingredients in Nagano Lean Body Tonic is designed to enhance overall effectiveness. Users who combine the tonic with a balanced diet and regular exercise will likely experience the most significant benefits, making it a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle.

    Is Nagano Lean Body Tonic a Scam?

    No, Nagano Lean Body Tonic is not a scam. It is a legitimate dietary supplement developed by a reputable company committed to quality and consumer safety. The product is crafted with natural ingredients, and the manufacturer offers a 180-day money-back guarantee, demonstrating confidence in its effectiveness.

    Consumer testimonials and reviews further validate the tonic’s reputation, as many users have reported positive experiences and successful weight loss journeys. As with any supplement, individual results may vary, and it is essential to approach weight management with realistic expectations and a holistic lifestyle.

    Is Nagano Lean Body Tonic FDA Approved?

    While Nagano Lean Body Tonic is manufactured in an FDA-registered facility, dietary supplements do not require FDA approval before marketing. However, the company adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure product quality and safety. This commitment to quality control helps give consumers confidence in the product’s formulation and effectiveness.

    Consumers must research and understand the ingredients and potential benefits of any supplement they are considering. Nagano Lean Body Tonic is backed by scientific research, and its formulation is designed to support health and wellness effectively.

    Where to Buy Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is exclusively available for purchase through the official website. This direct purchasing model ensures that consumers receive authentic products stored and handled correctly. By avoiding third-party platforms, the manufacturer can maintain control over product quality and safety, providing customers with peace of mind when purchasing.

    Is Nagano Lean Body Tonic Really on Amazon, eBay, and Walmart?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic on Amazon.com

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is unavailable on Amazon or through any Amazon partners. This strategic decision by the manufacturer ensures that the product is handled and stored correctly before reaching consumers. By avoiding third-party platforms, the company guarantees the integrity and safety of the tonic. If you wish to purchase, the only authorized source is the official website, with no plans for future sales via Amazon.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic on eBay.com

    You will not find Nagano Lean Body Tonic for sale on eBay or any affiliated eBay stores. The manufacturer avoids selling on eBay to maintain complete control over product quality. This decision helps prevent contamination or tampered goods sold, which could harm customers. Always purchase the tonic directly from the official website to ensure safety, as it is not endorsed for sale on eBay.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic on Walmart.com

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is not available on Walmart’s shelves or website. While Walmart may carry other natural products, this tonic requires specific storage and handling to preserve its purity and effectiveness. By selling directly through the official website, the manufacturer minimizes consumer risks and guarantees the best product quality.

    Conclusion

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is a powerful ally in pursuing health and wellness. With its unique formulation and a blend of natural ingredients, it addresses multiple aspects of weight management, energy levels, and overall vitality. The positive customer testimonials and the science behind its ingredients provide compelling evidence of its effectiveness.

    For anyone seeking a reliable supplement to support their health goals, Nagano Lean Body Tonic presents an attractive option. The 180-day money-back guarantee further enhances its appeal, allowing users to try the product risk-free. By incorporating this tonic into a balanced lifestyle, individuals can take significant steps toward achieving their health and wellness aspirations.

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic FAQs

    What is Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    Nagano Lean Body Tonic is a dietary supplement containing natural ingredients to support weight loss and overall health.

    How does Nagano Lean Body Tonic work?

    The tonic enhances metabolism, reduces cravings, and increases energy levels, making it easier for users to manage their weight.

    Who should use Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    It suits busy professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and aging adults who want to lose weight, boost energy, and improve overall wellness.

    What are the key ingredients?

    Key ingredients include camu camu, EGCG, Mangosteen, Panax ginseng, and Ashwagandha, each contributing to the tonic’s benefits.

    Are there any side effects?

    Some users may experience mild digestive discomfort, but most tolerate the tonic well. It is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional before use.

    Is there a money-back guarantee?

    Yes, Nagano Lean Body Tonic has a 180-day satisfaction guarantee, which allows users to request a refund if they are unsatisfied.

    Where can I buy Nagano Lean Body Tonic?

    The tonic is exclusively available through the official website, ensuring product quality and safety.

    Is it available on Amazon or eBay?

    No, Nagano Lean Body Tonic is not sold on Amazon or eBay to maintain product integrity. Purchases should be made from the official website.

    Does Nagano Lean Body Tonic require FDA approval?

    While manufactured in an FDA-registered facility, dietary supplements do not require FDA approval before selling. The company adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices for safety.

    Can Nagano Lean Body Tonic help with energy levels?

    The tonic boosts energy levels and vitality, helping users feel more energetic throughout the day.

    Unlock natural energy today with Nagano Lean Body Tonic.

    Contact: Nagano Lean Body Tonic

    Address: 285 Northeast Ave, Tallmadge, OH 44278, United States.

    Email:: support@leanbodytonic.com

    Order Status Support: (863) 591-4284

    Legal Disclaimer

    The information presented in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment a licensed healthcare provider provides.

    Statements about any products, including Nagano Tonic and its ingredients, have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

    Always consult a qualified healthcare professional, including dietary supplements, before changing your health routine. Individual results may vary, and no guarantees are made regarding effectiveness or safety for any individual.

    The information included herein is based on current publicly available scientific literature. While we strive for accuracy, the publisher and authors make no warranties regarding this information’s completeness, reliability, or applicability and disclaim all liability arising from its use.

    Affiliate & Financial Disclosure

    This article may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and choose to make a purchase, we may earn a commission or referral fee at no additional cost. This compensation helps support the maintenance of our website and the continued creation of high-quality content.

    We do not accept payments in exchange for positive reviews or misleading claims. All opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and reflect honest, research-based assessments of the information available during writing.

    Before purchasing any product mentioned on this site, you must research and consult a healthcare professional. The publisher, authors, and affiliated entities expressly disclaim all liability for any direct or indirect loss or damage arising from reliance on the information or products referenced.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f2355c13-a367-48f9-a847-f98940810269

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Reserve Bank cancels Certificate of Registration (CoR) of M/s. Unitara Finance Limited

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    In exercise of powers conferred under Section 45-IA (6) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 (the Act), the Reserve Bank of India by its order dated March 24, 2025 has cancelled the Certificate of Registration No. B-03.00016 dated February 20, 1998 issued to M/s. Unitara Finance Limited, CIN No. U65921MP1994PLC008248, having its Registered Office at 70, Transport Nagar Indore, Madhya Pradesh-452001 for carrying on the business of a Non-Banking Financial Institution as defined in section 45-I(a) of the Act.

    The company therefore cannot carry on the business of a Non-Banking Financial Institution under the Act.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2448

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Markets4you Wins Two Major Awards at FX Daily Awards 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Multi-asset broker Markets4you has announced its double win at the FX Daily Awards 2025, receiving Best Forex Broker APAC and Best Mobile App Trading Platform Global. These awards recognize Markets4you’s strong presence in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region and its commitment to providing traders with a secure, fast, and reliable trading platform—both on desktop and mobile.

    The APAC region remains one of the fastest-growing markets for online trading. With over 3 million users, Markets4you has helped traders access a wide range of markets, including forex, stocks, indices, and more. The company continues to expand its local support teams, provide expert market insights, and offer educational resources to help traders make informed decisions.

    Markets4you’s mobile app also received recognition for its speed, user-friendly design, and full trading features. It allows users to open and manage trades, deposit, withdraw, and monitor the markets from anywhere with ease.

    Ms. Marina Strauss, CEO of Markets4you, shared: “These awards show our dedication to creating the best possible trading experience for our users. Whether it’s through our platform or mobile app, we’re committed to helping traders achieve their goals with the right tools, support, and market access.”

    Markets4you remains focused on continuous improvement, innovation, and delivering real value to traders around the world.

    About Markets4you
    Markets4you is an award-winning, multi-asset trading platform offering contracts for difference (CFDs) in a wide range of markets across various assets, including forex, stocks, commodities, and indices. For 18 years, Markets4you has been trusted by over 3 million traders and 100,000 partners worldwide.

    The award-winning broker has attained over 35 industry awards, including:
    International Business Magazine Awards 2024
    ● Best Partnership Program Asia
    ● Best Global Online Trading Platform
    ● Best Global Mobile Trading App

    Global Forex Awards 2024
    ● Best Affiliate Program – Asia
    ● Most Transparent Broker – Global

    Forex4you and Markets4you are registered trademarks of E-Global Trade & Finance Group, Inc.

    For more information, users can visit www.markets4you.com.

    Contact

    Marketing Manager
    Yew Chong
    Markets4you
    yew.chong@eglobal-group.com 

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b649e647-b1ac-4971-b15d-9256f289d1d1

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: In a First, LNG Cargo Trade Indexed to Abaxx LNG Futures

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abaxx Technologies Inc. (CBOE:ABXX)(OTCQX:ABXXF) (“Abaxx” or the “Company”), a financial software and market infrastructure company, majority shareholder of Abaxx Singapore Pte Ltd., the owner of Abaxx Commodity Exchange and Clearinghouse (individually, “Abaxx Exchange” and “Abaxx Clearing”), and producer of the SmarterMarkets™ Podcast, today announced the first over-the-counter (“OTC”) trade of an LNG cargo indexed to Abaxx LNG futures.

    Two Asia-based counterparties have agreed to trade an LNG cargo to be exported from the Gulf of Mexico (“GOM”) with the transaction price indexed to Abaxx GOM LNG futures. The adoption of Abaxx physically deliverable LNG futures as the price index for an OTC LNG cargo trade represents a significant milestone and advances their potential to become benchmarks in global LNG markets. On Friday, March 21, 2025, the Abaxx GOM LNG futures (May delivery) settled at $12.46/mmBtu¹, the Abaxx NWE LNG futures (May delivery) settled at $13.37/mmBtu, and the Abaxx NPA LNG Futures (May delivery) settled at $13.59/mmBtu.

    “This trade reflects the need for more precise LNG pricing as geopolitical shifts, including tariffs and trade disputes, continue to impact global commodities markets,” said Joe Raia, Chief Commercial Officer of Abaxx Exchange. “The use of Abaxx futures settlement prices for this high-value cargo gives the global LNG market confidence in the strength of our contracts and reinforces their role as a reliable tool for managing price risk with benchmarks that reflect real LNG market conditions more reliably than regional pipeline hubs or proxies.”

    About Abaxx Technologies Inc.

    Abaxx is building Smarter Markets — markets empowered by better financial technology and market infrastructure to address our biggest challenges, including the energy transition. In addition to developing and deploying financial technologies that make communication, trade, and transactions easier and more secure, Abaxx is the majority-owner of Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing, subsidiaries recognized by MAS as an RMO and ACH, respectively.

    Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing are a Singapore-based commodity futures exchange and clearinghouse, introducing centrally-cleared, physically deliverable commodities futures and derivatives to provide better price discovery and risk management tools for the commodities critical to our transition to a lower-carbon economy.

    For more information please visit abaxx.tech, abaxx.exchange and smartermarkets.media.

    For more information about this press release, please contact:
    Steve Fray, CFO
    Tel: +1 647 490 1590

    Media and Investor inquiries:
    Abaxx Technologies Inc.
    Investor Relations Team
    Tel: +1 647 490 1590
    E-mail: ir@abaxx.tech

    ¹“Million British thermal units”, a thermal unit of measurement for natural gas.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This press release includes certain “forward-looking statements” which do not consist of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe Abaxx’s future plans, objectives, or goals, including words to the effect that Abaxx expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as “seeking”, “should”, “intend”, “predict”, “potential”, “believes”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “estimates”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “will”, “continue”, “plan” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Since forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to Abaxx, Abaxx does not provide any assurance that actual results will meet respective management expectations. Risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors involved with forward- looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

    Forward-looking information related to Abaxx in this press release includes, but is not limited to: Abaxx’s objectives, goals or future plans, introduction of new battery materials products; liquidity on Abaxx Exchange; the delivery of commodities subject to futures contracts; and the expected growth and positive impacts from global battery metal demand. Such factors impacting forward-looking information include, among others: risks relating to the global economic climate; dilution; Abaxx’s limited operating history; future capital needs and uncertainty of additional financing; the competitive nature of the industry; currency exchange risks; the need for Abaxx to manage its planned growth and expansion; the effects of product development and need for continued technology change; protection of proprietary rights; the effect of government regulation and compliance on Abaxx and the industry; acquiring and maintaining regulatory approvals for Abaxx’s products and operations; the ability to list Abaxx’s securities on stock exchanges in a timely fashion or at all; network security risks; the ability of Abaxx to maintain properly working systems; reliance on key personnel; global economic and financial market deterioration impeding access to capital or increasing the cost of capital; and volatile securities markets impacting security pricing unrelated to operating performance. In addition, particular factors which could impact future results of the business of Abaxx include but are not limited to: operations in foreign jurisdictions; protection of intellectual property rights; contractual risk; third-party risk; clearinghouse risk; malicious actor risks; third-party software license risk; system failure risk; risk of technological change; dependence of technical infrastructure; changes in the price of commodities; capital market conditions; and restriction on labor and international travel and supply chains in addition to the risk factors identified in the Company’s most recent management discussion and analysis filed on SEDAR+. Abaxx has also assumed that no significant events occur outside of Abaxx’s normal course of business.

    Abaxx cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. In addition, although Abaxx has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. When relying on forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Abaxx has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraphs will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Abaxx as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Abaxx undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and information. Cboe Canada does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Ambassador of Republic of Bulgaria presents Credentials to the Secretary-General of ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    JAKARTA, 24 March 2025 — Ambassador Tanya Dimitrova Dimitrova presented her Letter of Credence to Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat today, assuming her post as the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to ASEAN.

    Secretary-General Dr. Kao congratulated Ambassador Dimitrova on her assumption of duty and reiterated the ASEAN Secretariat’s readiness to work closely with Ambassador Dimitrova and the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Jakarta. In response, Ambassador Dimitrova reiterated Bulgaria’s strong commitment to developing its relations with ASEAN and ASEAN Member States. 

    Both sides noted the significance of exploring cooperation in areas such as private sector engagement, trade, investment, tourism, connectivity, as well as information technology, including software development and digitalisation.

    Ambassador Dimitrova said, it was a privilege and honour for her to present her Letter of Credence to the Secretary-General of ASEAN. Over the past years, Bulgaria’s cooperation with ASEAN and its Member States has focused on fostering collaboration in various fields, including the economy, trade, education, tourism, and other sectors.  She looked forward to enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest to foster stronger relations with ASEAN.

    Bulgaria accredited its first Ambassador to ASEAN in 2009. Ambassador Dimitrova succeeds Ambassador Petar Andonov, who completed his tenure on 30 October 2023.

    ***

    The post Ambassador of Republic of Bulgaria presents Credentials to the Secretary-General of ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Ambassador of Norway to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today had a meeting with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to ASEAN, H.E. Kjell Tormod Pettersen, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. They exchanged views on ways and means to further advance the ASEAN-Norway relations, especially as this year marks the 10th anniversary of ASEAN-Norway Sectoral Dialogue Partnership. Both sides also discussed preparations for SG Dr. Kao’s Working Visit to Norway this year.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Ambassador of Norway to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister leads G20 environment working group

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, will this week lead the Group of Twenty (G20) Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) as part of South Africa’s Presidency of the G20. 

    “It is expected that the outcome of this first virtual G20 ECSWG meeting will provide strategic direction and a common understanding amongst G20 Member States on the key environmental and climate change priorities and deliverables,” the Minister said on Sunday.

    Taking place under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability,” the Minister is expected to open the meeting on Tuesday, by setting the scene for South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 ECSWG, provide an opportunity to discuss the five priorities and deliverables, and also present the proposed work plan for the G20 ECSWG for 2025.

    The priority focus areas for South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 ECSWG include:

    • Biodiversity and Conservation – Implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework and the Biodiversity Economy;
    • Land Degradation, Desertification and Drought – Land Degradation Neutrality targets;
    • Chemicals and Waste Management – Sustainable Chemicals Management; Circular Economy; Waste Management; Waste to Energy; Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) implementation;
    • Climate Change and Air Quality – Just Transition; Loss and Damage; Adaptation, including Climate Resilient Development (CRD); Climate Finance and Air Quality; and
    • Oceans and Coastal Management – Marine Spatial Planning – ocean governance; combatting marine plastic pollution.

    The G20 ECSWG aims to enhance cooperation amongst all G20 members and invitees to address environmental and climate change priorities. 

    The G20 comprises 19 countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom and United States, as well as two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union.

    The G20 members represent about two-thirds of the world population, approximately 85% of the global GDP and over 75% of the global trade. 

    This platform is considered as the leading forum for international economic cooperation and plays an important role in shaping and strengthening global architecture and governance on all major international economic issues.

    South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 commenced on 01 December 2024 and will continue until 30 November 2025. 

    The Presidency will build upon on the achievements of India (2023 Presidency) and Brazil (2024 Presidency), to ensure continuity in advancing the developmental agenda within the G20. 

    “South Africa’s G20 Presidency provides a unique opportunity for the country to champion the aspirations of emerging market economies and lead the developmental agenda of the African Continent within the framework of the G20.”

    A total of three G20 ECSWG meetings and one ECSWG Ministerial meeting will be held in South Africa, with the first virtual meeting scheduled to take place from 25 – 28 March 2025; followed by the second meeting from 14-18 July 2025 at Kruger National Park, and the final meeting in October 2025 at Cape Town.

    The Ministerial meeting will be held back-to-back with the third ECSWG meeting in October 2025.

    The department will also roll out outreach and awareness activities in the buildup to the three G20 ECSWG meetings throughout the country to amplify the messaging on the focus areas for the G20 ECSWG.

    “The department will leverage South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 to market and showcase the Kruger-Kirstenbosch-iSimangaliso Icon Status Strategy (KISS). Some of the meetings and activities will take place at these iconic world-class sites to showcase them on the global stage,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA committed to advancing national unity

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa says since the advent of democracy, government have strived to build a society that recognises the injustices of the past while advancing reconciliation and national unity.

    “That is why as a country we have chosen 21 March as an occasion to recommit ourselves to the advancement of human rights for all,” President Ramaphosa said.

    In his weekly newsletter, President Ramaphosa said since the dawn of democracy, South Africans have been able to exercise their rights freely, and many know that they can approach the independent courts and the institutions supporting democracy if their rights are infringed or violated.

    “We can be proud that South Africans are confident they have a voice and a say in how their country is run, demonstrated by the fact that we have held successive free and fair elections since 1994,” President Ramaphosa said.

    President Ramaphosa said in South Africa today, all citizens, African, white, Indian and coloured, male and female, enjoy equal rights and freedoms that the state is obliged to uphold, protect and advance.

    “In South Africa today, there are constitutional protections guaranteed to all racial, cultural and linguistic groups, including their right to enjoy their culture and to use their language.

    “As South Africans we should therefore reject the politics of divisiveness that is emerging in many parts of the world. In particular, we should challenge the completely false narrative that our country is a place in which people of a certain race or culture are being targeted for persecution.

    “We should not allow events beyond our shores to divide us or turn us against each other. Since the end of apartheid our country has been recognised globally for upholding human rights. The free flow of ideas and opinions are vital to democracy and to having a vibrant society,” the President said.

    The President said even those with the most offensive views should know that in the democratic South Africa, and unlike in many other parts of the world, the constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression, as long as it does not include incitement to violence or advocacy of racial and other hatred.

    “Since we attained our freedom, South Africans have been steadfast in our solidarity with peoples everywhere who are facing persecution, discrimination and the violation of their rights.

    “Human rights are universal and indivisible. As South Africa we stand in solidarity with all those whose right to lead lives of dignity are being undermined by conflict and war. As a country we will continue to repeat our call for a renewed global human rights movement so that the rights and dignity of all people should be upheld.

    “As we reflect on the state of human rights in South Africa during this month, let us be proud of our achievements as a country. At the same time, let us recommit ourselves to working together to ensure our human rights culture is upheld and strengthened,” President Ramaphosa said.

    South Africa commemorates National Human Rights Day on 21 March to remember the Sharpeville massacre, where apartheid police killed 69 peaceful protesters against the regime in 1960.

    March 2025 marks over six decades since the painful events of 21 March 1960 where 69 lives were lost in the Sharpeville Massacre. The massacre came to be as a result of citizens choosing to protest against the then pass laws of the apartheid government. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ADB and Shriram Finance Sign Deal to Boost MSME and EV Financing in India

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    NEW DELHI, INDIA (24 March 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Shriram Finance Limited have signed a loan agreement for $150 million to boost access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in India with a focus on business loans and for financing electric vehicles (EVs) and low-emission commercial vehicles for business purposes. The loan will particularly benefit women-owned MSMEs and those in lagging states.

    The transaction is part of a total $306 million financing package led by ADB as the mandated lead arranger and bookrunner, which includes a loan of $150 million from Japan International Cooperation Agency and INR 500 million from Export-Import Bank of India.

    Shriram Finance Limited is the flagship company of the Shriram Group and is one of India’s largest non-banking financial companies specializing in commercial vehicle financing and MSME lending.

    “This project underscores ADB’s commitment to supporting financial inclusion and sustainable development in India while addressing the significant financing gap faced by MSMEs,” said ADB Country Director for India Mio Oka. “By partnering with Shriram Finance Limited, we will empower MSMEs, particularly women entrepreneurs, and accelerate the transition to electric mobility, which is crucial for reducing air pollution and achieving India’s climate goals.”

    MSMEs play a vital role in India’s economy, contributing 30% of India’s GDP and employing over 123 million people. However, they face significant challenges in accessing formal credit, with only a quarter of the MSME market being served by financial institutions. Women entrepreneurs face additional barriers due to social norms and limited access to collateral. ADB’s loan will help bridge this gap by enhancing Shriram Finance’s ability to provide tailored financial solutions to MSMEs, enabling them to reach underserved segments particularly in rural, semi-urban areas and in lagging states, and provide economic opportunities for women-owned MSMEs. ADB’s loan also supports the government’s initiatives to reduce air pollution through the adoption of EVs and low-emission (Bharat Stage-VI compliant) vehicles. The government’s EV30@30 initiative targets 30% of all new vehicle sales to be electric by 2030.

    “We value ADB’s support and funding, which will enable us to expand our financing to underserved MSMEs and promote the adoption of electric vehicles,” said Shriram Finance Limited Executive Vice Chairman Umesh Revankar. “Our continued partnership with ADB aligns with our corporate mission to drive inclusive growth and support India’s transition to a greener economy. This facility strengthens our commitment to financial inclusion and economic development.”

    Founded in 1979, Shriram Finance has 3,196 branches and 79,405 employees serving over 9 million customers, with assets under management of INR 2.54 trillion and strong operations in rural and semi-urban areas. It is well-positioned to support underserved MSMEs and drive the adoption of electric and low-emission vehicles.

    ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EDUCATION FOR ALL

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 3:25PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of School Education and Literacy is implementing an integrated centrally sponsored scheme for School education- Samagra Shiksha. The scheme treats school education holistically, without segmentation from pre-primary to class XII in alignment with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aims to ensure that all children have access to quality education with an equitable and inclusive classroom environment which should take care of their diverse background, multilingual needs, different academic abilities and make them active participants in the learning process.

    Under Samagra Shiksha, financial assistance is provided to States and UTs for implementation of various provisions of Samagra Shiksha Scheme including  free uniform to eligible children at elementary level, free textbooks at elementary level, reimbursement under RTE Act, various qualitative components development of primers/textbooks for tribal language, teaching learning materials, transport/escort facility up to secondary level, special training for age appropriate admission of out of school children and residential as well as non-residential training for older children, seasonal hostels / residential camps, special training centers, age-appropriate residential and non-residential training, support to Out of School Children (16 to 19 years) for completion of education through NIOS/SIOS, Holistic Progress Card, bilingual teaching material and books.

    Further, financial assistance is also provided to the States and UTs for  opening/strengthening of new schools upto senior secondary level, construction of school buildings & additional classrooms, development/strengthening of school infrastructure in northern border areas under Vibrant Village Programme, setting up, up-gradation and running of Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, setting up of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Avasiya Vidyalayas, construction of hostels for PVTGs under PM-JANMAN, construction of hostels under Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan for unsaturated ST population, strengthening of teacher education and strengthening of DIETs/BRCs/CRCs, provision of ICT and digital interventions.

    Under the student-oriented component for the children with special needs, financial assistance is provided for identification and assessment of children with special needs, aids and appliances, braille kits and books, appropriate teaching learning material and stipend to girl students with disability etc. It also has provisions for creation of differently-abled friendly infrastructure such as ramps, ramps with handrails and differently-abled friendly toilets for barrier free access in schools. Further, to improve the identification of CwSN, the Government has introduced the Prashast App for early screening and identification of CwSN in regular schools. Teacher capacity building programs are being undertaken under NISHTHA in hybrid mode to train general teachers to address the learning needs of CwSN.

    The New India Literacy Programme (NILP) popularly known as ULLAS – targets non-literates aged 15 years and above who have missed formal schooling and provide educational opportunities to them to make them literate. It is being implemented from FY 2022-23 to 2026-27. A dedicated ULLAS App has been created for registering learners and volunteer teachers. Till now, over 2.20 crore learners and more than 40 lakh volunteer teachers have registered on the app. The App also contains TLM in the form of ULLAS primers in all languages.

    The Scheme supports creation and strengthening of infrastructure like, School buildings, Additional Classrooms, Toilets, Drinking Water, Ramp and Handrails, electrifications, Boundary wall, Science labs, Library Rooms, Computer Rooms, and Major Repairs works as per state requirements.

    To bridge the gap between rural and urban areas in educational access, digital initiatives like ICT Labs, Smart Classrooms, PM e-Vidya including DIKSHA and SWAYAM PRABHA DTH-TV Channels are also being supported under the scheme.

    The annual plans are prepared by the States and UTs as per their requirements/ priority including creation/ strengthening of infrastructure, support to teachers’ salary etc. and same is reflected in their respective Annual Work Plan and Budget (AWP&B) Proposals. These plans are then appraised and approved by the Project Approval Board (PAB) in the Department of School Education & Literacy in consultation with the States and UTs as per the programmatic and financial norms of the scheme and physical and financial progress of the State for the interventions approved earlier.

    The information was given by the Minister of State for Education, Shri Jayant Chaudhary in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    MV/AK

    (Release ID: 2114376) Visitor Counter : 129

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: APEDA Facilitates Export of GI-Tagged Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands

    Source: Government of India (2)

    APEDA Facilitates Export of GI-Tagged Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands

    15,000 kg of Dalle Chilly Exported, Boosting Farmer Incomes in Sikkim

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 3:19PM by PIB Delhi

    The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, has successfully exported the first consignment of GI-Tagged Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands. This significant achievement underscores India’s growing prominence in the global organic agricultural market and highlights the increasing international demand for premium products from the North Eastern region.

    Dalle Chilly, also known as Fire Ball Chilly or Dalle Khursani, is renowned for its intense pungency, bright red color, and high nutritional value. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with potassium, its Scoville Heat Units (SHU) range from 100,000 to 350,000, making it a sought-after spice for both culinary and medicinal applications.

    Through its extensive procurement network, Mevedir sourced approximately 15,000 kg of fresh Dalle Chilly from farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in South Sikkim, including Tinkitam and Tarku regions. This consignment ensured farmers received a premium price of Rs 250-300 per kg, compared to the usual Rs 180-200 per kg, reaffirming the economic benefits of GI tagging and international trade.

    The processing of the consignment was undertaken at an APEDA-funded Integrated Pack House, developed by the Department of Horticulture, Sikkim. Of the total quantity, 9,000 kg was dehydrated, while 6,000 kg was preserved for further processing and export. The drying process yielded a 12.5% recovery rate, with 1,600 kg of fresh chillies processed into 200 kg of dried chillies for export.

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had earlier emphasized that the North East holds the key to India’s vision for a healthier and more sustainable future. He noted that the Geographical Indication (GI) tag is not just a recognition but a transformative opportunity for farmers and artisans, unlocking new markets and ensuring economic prosperity for the region.

    In 2020, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, granted the GI tag to Dalle Chilly, a unique and highly pungent variety grown in Sikkim. The North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC) facilitated the GI registration, strengthening the identity and marketability of this specialty product.

    The Government of India has been actively promoting organic farming in the North East under the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCD-NER) scheme, spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. This initiative has played a crucial role in enhancing the production and quality of organic Dalle Chilly, further boosting its appeal in international markets.

    APEDA, in collaboration with the Agriculture Department of Sikkim and its Regional Office in Guwahati, played a pivotal role in facilitating this export, ensuring local farmers and FPOs benefit from global market access.

    For this landmark export transaction, Mevedir, a leading agri-export enterprise committed to promoting organic produce from Sikkim, directly supplied the first shipment to the Solomon Islands. This marks a departure from previous indirect export routes and highlights the growing trust in India’s organic supply chain. The buyer from the Solomon Islands was introduced to the product through its international debut in Singapore in 2023 and subsequently sought direct sourcing from Mevedir.

    The export of Dalle Chilly to the Solomon Islands is expected to enhance Sikkim’s prominence on the global spice map, opening new avenues for international trade. With its ideal climate and fertile soil, Sikkim has the potential to emerge as a key player in the global spice industry. This successful transaction serves as a testament to the increasing global recognition of India’s organic agricultural products and its commitment to expanding agri-exports worldwide.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2114373) Visitor Counter : 31

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PMG Reviews Mega Infrastructure Projects in Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal

    Source: Government of India (2)

    PMG Reviews Mega Infrastructure Projects in Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal

    23 issues across 19 major projects worth INR 63,858 crore reviewed

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 3:18PM by PIB Delhi

    The Project Monitoring Group (PMG) of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) conducted a comprehensive review of key infrastructure projects in Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha.

    Officials examined 23 issues across 19 major projects, with a total investment exceeding INR 63,858 crore. This included five projects under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, particularly focusing on Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) hospitals across all three states. These hospitals aim to provide essential healthcare benefits, including specialized treatments, medicines, and hospitalization, for insured citizens and their families.

    Additionally, projects related to the Ministries of Steel, Coal, Road Transport & Highways, Petroleum & Natural Gas, Railways, and Power were reviewed to identify and address bottlenecks, ensuring smooth execution. Notably, the Buxar Thermal Power Plant (1320 MW) project in Bihar, with an estimated cost of INR 10,439.09 crore, was a key focus of discussions.

    The meeting, chaired by Principal Economic Advisor, Shri Praveen Mahto, was attended by senior officials from Central Ministries, State Governments, and project proponents to address and resolve pressing issues affecting project execution. Shri Praveen Mahto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the institutional framework for project monitoring and urged authorities to adopt a proactive approach in resolving pending issues. He emphasized the critical role of private stakeholders in leveraging the Project Monitoring Group (PMG) mechanism ((https://pmg.dpiit.gov.in)) to accelerate project implementation. Enhanced coordination between the Central Government, State Authorities, and the Private Sector remains key to ensuring the timely and efficient execution of these infrastructure projects.

    The DPIIT, through its Project Monitoring Group, will continue to facilitate high-impact infrastructure projects, ensuring their timely completion and contributing to India’s economic growth.

    *** 

    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2114371) Visitor Counter : 36

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Details of Annual Survey of Industries

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation

    Details of Annual Survey of Industries

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 3:20PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the results of Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) for the reference period April 2022 to March 2023 (i.e. financial year 2022-23) referred to as ASI 2022-23 in October 2024.

    National Industrial Classification (NIC) 2-digit wise estimated total persons engaged based on ASI 2022-23 and ASI 2021-22 along with its growth rate are given in Table at Annexure.

    The survey is related to the reference period April 2022 to March 2023 i.e. financial year 2022-23.

    The reference period (year) for ASI is the financial year and the actual survey period for ASI is in the subsequent year following the reference period. In this sequence, the field work of ASI 2023-24 has commenced from September 2024.

    The estimated number of factories based on ASI 2013-14 and ASI 2022-23 and its growth rate are given below:

    Parameter

    ASI 2013-14

    ASI 2022-23

    Growth Rate (%)

    Estimated Number of Factories

    2,24,576

    2,53,334

    12.81

    *****

    Annexure

    NIC 2-digit wise Estimated Total Persons Engaged (no.) based on ASI 2021-22 and ASI 2022-23 and Percentage Growth Rate (%)

    		  

    NIC-

    2008

     Description

    ASI 2021-22

    ASI 2022-23

    Growth

     Rate (%)

    		  
     

    1

    2

    3

    4

    5

    		  

    01

    COTTON GINNING, CLEANING AND BAILING (01632); SEED PROCESSING FOR PROPAGATION (01640)

    77,167

    83,315

    7.97

    		  

    08

    SALT PRODUCTION BY EVAPORATION OF SEA WATER OR OTHER SALINE WATERS (08932)

    6,561

    7,928

    20.84

    		  

    10

    FOOD PRODUCTS

    19,02,472

    21,16,320

    11.24

    		  

    11

    BEVERAGES

    1,65,576

    1,80,334

    8.91

    		  

    12

    TOBACCO PRODUCTS

    4,18,575

    4,35,988

    4.16

    		  

    13

    TEXTILES

    16,59,772

    17,22,672

    3.79

    		  

    14

    WEARING APPAREL

    11,80,573

    13,20,172

    11.82

    		  

    15

    LEATHER AND RELATED PRODUCTS

    3,84,646

    4,07,753

    6.01

    		  

    16

    WOOD AND PRODUCTS OF WOOD AND CORK, EXCEPT FURNITURE

    95,424

    1,05,575

    10.64

    		  

    17

    PAPER AND PAPER PRODUCTS

    3,24,657

    3,50,482

    7.95

    		  

    18

    PRINTING AND REPRODUCTION OF RECORDED MEDIA

    1,37,026

    1,55,178

    13.25

    		  

    19

    COKE AND REFINED PETROLEUM PRODUCTS

    1,59,001

    1,68,852

    6.20

    		  

    20

    CHEMICALS AND CHEMICAL PRODUCTS

    10,26,380

    10,58,217

    3.10

    		  

    21

    PHARMACEUTICALS, MEDICINAL CHEMICAL AND BOTANICAL PRODUCTS

    8,92,308

    9,25,811

    3.75

    		  

    22

    RUBBER AND PLASTICS PRODUCTS

    9,53,779

    9,48,210

    -0.58

    		  

    23

    OTHER NON-METALLIC MINERAL PRODUCTS

    10,37,141

    10,49,399

    1.18

    		  

    24

    BASIC METALS

    12,71,623

    14,11,577

    11.01

    		  

    25

    FABRICATED METAL PRODUCTS, EXCEPT MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT

    7,05,612

    7,77,563

    10.20

    		  

    26

    COMPUTER, ELECTRONIC AND OPTICAL PRODUCTS

    3,84,733

    4,25,174

    10.51

    		  

    27

    ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

    6,65,596

    7,70,531

    15.77

    		  

    28

    MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT N.E.C.

    10,25,773

    11,09,876

    8.20

    		  

    29

    MOTOR VEHICLES, TRAILERS AND SEMI-TRAILERS

    11,75,314

    12,64,272

    7.57

    		  

    30

    OTHER TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT

    3,61,877

    3,95,069

    9.17

    		  

    31

    MANUFACTURE OF FURNITURE

    1,10,881

    1,29,801

    17.06

    		  

    32

    OTHER MANUFACTURING

    5,04,669

    5,54,033

    9.78

    		  

    33

    REPAIR AND INSTALLATION OF MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT

    35,014

    37,202

    6.25

    		  

    38

    WASTE COLLECTION, TREATMENT & DISPOSAL ACTIVITIES; MATERIALS RECOVERY

    28,205

    32,977

    16.92

    		  

    58

    PUBLISHING ACTIVITIES

    21,920

    23,363

    6.58

    		  

    Other

    OTHER INDUSTRIES

    5,03,073

    5,27,317

    4.82

    		  

    ALL INDIA

    1,72,15,350

    1,84,94,962

    7.43

    		  

    This information was given by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Minister of State (Independent Charge)  Ministry of Planning and Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Rao Inderjit Singh in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

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    (Release ID: 2114357)

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: STA Survey Report

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 3:15PM by PIB Delhi

    The Statistical Training Needs Assessment (STA) Survey Report systematically evaluates the existing training ecosystem and strategic planning for capacity building. The report highlights not only the existing strengths but also the areas where there are critical skill gaps, particularly in emerging areas. It prioritizes the required skills, examines learning styles and cultural contexts. The findings help to bridge skill gaps and align learning interventions with national priorities.

    The National Statistical Systems Training Academy (NSSTA) organizes training programmes in the field of Official Statistics and related disciplines covering the topics inter alia advanced technologies like AI, Big data analytics and machine learning. NSSTA also leverages the integrated Government Online Training (iGOT) Karmayogi platform for enhancing the competencies including those in advance technologies.

     The NSSTA also organizes talks, webinars, seminars, workshops and training programmes to share knowledge and global best practices in the field of Official Statistics and related disciplines.

     In the recent National Sample Survey (NSS) rounds, for selected surveys, provision has been made in the sampling design by considering district as ‘Basic Stratum’, so that district level estimates can be generated by the States participating in the surveys.

    This information was given by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Minister of State (Independent Charge)  Ministry of Planning and Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Rao Inderjit Singh in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Insights from Hackathon

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 3:05PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) in collaboration with MyGov is organising a data visualization hackathon titled ‘Innovate with GoIStats’ during the period 25.2.2025 to 31.03.2025.

    The hackathon is organised aiming to create awareness about the data being generated by the Ministry and encourage students and researchers to utilize the data for analysis to create any data visualization by using technology which may include AI/ML. The visualizations would aid dissemination of insights derived from the data for further use by researchers and policy makers.

    MoSPI has taken the following measures to promote data literacy and statistical analysis among students and researchers in India:

    1. The official statistics being generated by the Ministry are published on the website of the Ministry and also disseminated through social media handles of the Ministry for use by students and researchers.
    2. MoSPI provides internship opportunities to students pursuing or completed graduate/post-graduate or research scholars in recognized institutes / universities / research institutes under the ‘National Internship in Official Statistics’ programme.
    3. MoSPI promotes research in official statistics by way of providing financial assistance under the Grant-in-Aid component of the Capacity Development scheme of the Ministry.
    4. The National Statistical Systems Training Academy (NSSTA) organizes one-week awareness programme on official statistics for Heads of the Departments and UG/PG Students of Departments of Statistics / Economics / Social Science of Central and State Universities.
    5. NSSTA also organises one-day awareness workshop on official statistics for UG/PG students of Departments of Statistics/ Economics/Social Science at the campuses of the Universities/ Colleges.

    This information was given by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Minister of State (Independent Charge)  Ministry of Planning and Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Rao Inderjit Singh in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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