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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Africa: The G20: how it works, why it matters and what would be lost if it failed

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Danny Bradlow, Professor/Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria

    South Africa took over the presidency of the G20 at the end of 2024. Since then the world has become a more complex, unpredictable and dangerous place. The most powerful state in the world, the US, seems intent on undermining the existing order that it created and on demonstrating its power over weaker nations. Other influential countries are turning inward.

    These developments raise concerns about how well mechanisms for global cooperation, such as the G20, can continue to operate, particularly those that work on the basis of consensual decision making. Danny Bradlow sets out how the G20 works, and what’s at stake.

    What’s the G20’s purpose?

    The G20 is a forum in which the largest economies in the world meet regularly to discuss, and attempt to address, the most urgent international economic and political challenges. The group, which includes both rich and developing countries, accounts for about 67% of the world’s population, 85% of global GDP, and 75% of global trade.

    The G20, in fact, is a misnomer. The actual number of G20 participants in any given year far exceeds the 19 states and 2 international entities (the European Union and the African Union) that are its permanent members. Each year they are joined by a number of invited “guests”. While there are some countries, for example Spain and the Netherlands, that are considered “permanent” G20 guests, the full list of guests is determined by the chair of the G20 for that year. This year, South Africa has invited 13 countries, including Denmark, Egypt, Finland, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates. They are joined by 24 invited international organisations such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the United Nations and eight African regional organisations, among others.

    The G20 should be understood as a process rather than a set of discrete events. Its apex is the annual leaders’ summit at which the participating heads of state and government seek to agree on a communiqué setting out their agreements on key issues. These agreements are non-binding and each of the participating states usually will implement most but not all the agreed points.

    The communiqué is the outcome of a two track process: a finance track, consisting of representatives of the finance ministries and central banks in the participating counties, and a “sherpa” track that deals with more political issues. In total these two tracks will involve over 100 meetings of technical level officials and policymakers.

    Most of the work in each track is done by working groups. The finance track has seven working groups dealing with issues ranging from the global economy and international financial governance to financial inclusion and the financing of infrastructure. The sherpa track has 15 working groups dealing with issues ranging from development and agriculture to health, the digital economy, and education.

    The agenda for the working group meetings is based on issues notes prepared by the G20 presidency. The issues notes will discuss both unfinished business from prior years and any new issues that the president adds to the G20 agenda.

    The working group chairs report on the outcomes of these meetings to the ministerial meetings in their track. These reports will first be discussed in meetings of the deputies to the ministers. The deputies will seek to narrow areas of disagreement and sharpen the issues for discussion so that when they are presented at the ministerial meeting the chances of reaching agreement are maximised.

    The agreements reached at each of these ministerial meetings, assuming all participants agree, will be expressed in a carefully negotiated and drafted communiqué. If the participants cannot agree, the minister chairing the meeting will provide a chair’s summary of the meeting. These documents will then inform the communiqué that will be released at the end of the G20 summit. This final communiqué represents the formal joint decision of the participating heads of state and government.

    The G20 process is supplemented by the work of 13 engagement groups representing, for example, business, labour, youth, think tanks, women and civil society in the G20 countries. These groups look for ways to influence the outcomes of the G20 process.

    What is the G20 troika and how does it operate?

    The G20 does not have a permanent secretariat. Instead, the G20 president is responsible for organising and chairing the more than 100 meetings that take place during the year. The G20 has decided that this burden should be supported by a “troika”, consisting of the past, present and future presidents of the G20. This year the troika consists of Brazil, the past chair; South Africa, the current chair; and the US, the future chair.

    The role of the troika varies depending on the identity of the current chair and how assertive it wishes to be in driving the G20 process. It will also be influenced by how active the other two members of the troika wish to be.

    The troika helps ensure some continuity from one G20 year to another. This is important because there is a significant carryover of issues on the G20 agenda from one year to the next. The troika therefore creates the potential for the G20 president to focus on the issues of most interest to it over a three year period rather than just for one year.

    How successful has the G20 process been?

    The G20 is essentially a self-appointed group which has designated itself as the “premier forum for international economic cooperation”.

    The G20 was first brought together during the Asian financial crisis in the 1990s. At that time, it was limited to a forum in which ministers of finance and central bank governors could meet to discuss the most important international economic and financial issues, such as the Asian financial crisis.

    The G20 was elevated to the level of heads of state and government at the time of the 2008 global financial crisis.

    The G20 tends to work well as a cooperative forum when the world is confronting an economic crisis. Thus, the G20 was a critical forum in which countries could discuss and agree on coordinating actions to deal with the global financial crisis in 2008-9.

    It has performed less well when confronted with other types of crises. For example, it was found wanting in dealing with the COVID pandemic.

    It has also proven to be less effective, although not necessarily totally ineffective, when there is no crisis. So, for example, the G20 has been useful in helping address relatively technical issues such as developing international standards on particular financial regulatory issues or improving the functioning of multilateral development banks. On other more political issues, for example climate, food security, and funding the UN’s sustainable development goals, it has been less effective.

    There’s one less obvious, but nevertheless important, benefit. The G20 offers officials from participating countries the chance to interact with their counterparts from other G20 countries. As a result, they come to know and understand each other better, which helps foster cooperation between states on issues of common interest. It also ensures that when appropriate, these officials know whom to contact in other countries and this may help mitigate the risk of misunderstanding and conflict.

    These crisis management and other benefits would be lost if the G20 were to stop functioning. And there is currently no alternative to the G20 in the sense of a forum where the leading states in the world, which may differ on many important issues, can meet on a relatively informal basis to discuss issues of mutual interest. Importantly, the withdrawal of one G20 state, even the most powerful, should not prevent the remaining participants from using the G20 to promote international cooperation on key global challenges.

    In this way it can help manage the risk of conflict in a complex global environment.

    – The G20: how it works, why it matters and what would be lost if it failed
    – https://theconversation.com/the-g20-how-it-works-why-it-matters-and-what-would-be-lost-if-it-failed-251500

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP appeals for urgent funding to prevent rations cuts to over one million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh

    Source: World Food Programme

    DHAKA, Bangladesh– The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warns of a critical funding shortfall for its emergency response operations in Bangladesh, jeopardizing food assistance for over one million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.

    Without urgent new funding, monthly rations must be halved to US$6 per person, down from US$12.50 per person – just as refugees prepare to observe Eid, marking the end of Ramadan. All Rohingya receive vouchers that are redeemed for their choice of food at designated retailers in the camps. To sustain full rations, WFP urgently requires US$15 million for April, and US$81 million until the end of 2025.

    “The Rohingya refugee crisis remains one of the world’s largest and most protracted,” said Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director in Bangladesh. “Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh remain entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance for their survival. Any reduction in food assistance will push them deeper into hunger and force them to resort to desperate measures just to survive.”

    In recent months, new waves of Rohingya refugees, potentially exceeding 100,000 people, have crossed into Bangladesh, fleeing conflict in neighbouring Myanmar. The continued influx of Rohingya seeking safety places an even greater strain on already overstretched resources.

    WFP has already begun communicating with the Rohingya community about the potential ration cuts. This coincides with the holy month of Ramadan – a sacred period for Muslims worldwide, including for the majority of the Rohingya – observed as a time for solidarity and support.

    “Now more than ever, the Rohingya need us to stand with them. These families have nowhere else to go, and WFP’s food aid is the difference between survival and despair. Immediate support is urgently needed to prevent this crisis from escalating further,” added Scalpelli.

    In 2023, severe funding constraints forced WFP to reduce rations from US$12 to US$8 per person per month, leading to a sharp decline in food consumption and the worst levels of malnutrition among children since 2017 – reaching over 15 percent – above the emergency threshold. Rations were later increased when funding was received.

    For a population with no legal status, no freedom of movement outside the camps, and no sustainable livelihood opportunities, further cuts will exacerbate protection and security risks. As in 2023, women and girls, in particular, may face heightened risks of exploitation, trafficking, prostitution, and domestic violence. Children may be pulled out of school and forced into child labour, while girls may be married off at a young age as families resort to desperate measures to survive.

    Refugee populations across the globe are often the first to face cuts to aid, despite being among the most vulnerable. As funding shortfalls grow and needs continue to rise, the Rohingya and many other communities are left with fewer resources to survive.

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    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change. 

    Follow us on X @wfp_bangladesh, Facebook @WFPinBangladesh, Instagram @wfp_bangladesh  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 7 March 2025 UHC-Partnership: Nigerians in Imo State are protected from financial hardship when accessing health services

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Favour Owuamanam, from Umuechetanmehe Amiri in Imo State, was 9 months pregnant and had been referred for a planned caesarean section due to the prospects of a high-risk delivery. When her labor started before her due date, she was rushed to Vaden Specialist Hospital for an emergency caesarean section and gave birth successfully. However, her baby had complications with neonatal asphyxia and jaundice and required additional care.

    The Imo State Health Insurance Agency facilitated the immediate transfer of the baby to the special care unit in Imo State Specialist Hospital. Both mother and baby were covered under health insurance and did not need to pay for any services.

    “Medical treatments are usually so high. I don’t know where I would have found the money to pay for my hospital bills. I am very grateful to the Imo State Health Insurance Agency Team,” said Favour.

    Marcus Moses and family, beneficiaries of the Imo State Health Insurance Agency. Photo by: WHO/Nigeria

    This is one of many health interventions by the Imo State Health Insurance Agency. The Agency has instituted one of the best and most responsive referral systems in Nigeria. In less than 10 months of implementation, over 516 cases have been referred through the health insurance programme, saving many lives through emergency surgery at no cost to the patient.

    Some of Nigeria’s poorest and most vulnerable populations are now able to access health care services without suffering financial hardship as a result. This is due to the passing of health insurance laws and the implementation of a health insurance programme that removes the burden of financial cost to the patient. Simultaneously, the quality of primary health care services is being strengthened, which has increased trust in and use of the services.

    This is a strong effort by the Government of Nigeria to ensure that its population is protected from financial hardship and is able to access timely and quality health services in line with the principles of universal health coverage (UHC).

    Engaging parliamentarians and the Executive to enable laws

    The enactment of mandatory health insurance laws and implementation of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund in 2023 has changed the lives of many poor and vulnerable Nigerians in Imo State.

    To advocate and make a strong case for the establishment of the Imo State Health Insurance Program, WHO, through the UHC Partnership, helped to establish the State Health Financing Unit and Technical Working Group in the State Ministry of Health. WHO technical staff then worked to build capacity and generate evidence.

    “The Imo State Government is putting mechanisms in place to ensure the protection of all citizens against financial risks associated with health care in the state. Unfortunately, the demand for health services is relentless and people end up becoming poorer to stay alive whenever they are sick. These actions will mitigate the use of the regressive out-of-pocket payments in health that pushes people into the vicious cycle of poverty, disease, and death,” said Dr Uchenna Ewelike, Executive Secretary, Imo State Health Insurance Agency.

    Sustained high-level advocacy by WHO resulted in better understanding and synergy between the Executive led by the State Governor and the parliamentarians, and this led to the speedy passage and ascent of the Imo State Health Insurance Bill into Law.

    “More investment in health, and health insurance specifically, has huge returns for the economy. This is demonstrated by an investment case for health in Imo State, developed by WHO, that shows up to 200% increase in real GDP and 200% increase in the number of jobs created over 5 years. As health is a human right and duty of the state, WHO will work with Imo State to develop a plan that will guide a progressive increase in coverage to achieve the UHC benchmark of at least 80% of the state population,” said Dr Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Representative to Nigeria.

    Nigeria is one of more than 125 countries and areas to which the UHC Partnership helps deliver WHO support and technical expertise in advancing UHC through a PHC approach. The UHC Partnership represents over 3 billion people. It is supported and funded by Belgium, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and WHO.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ingrid Yeung visits EPD

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung called on the Environmental Protection Department today to learn more about its environmental quality monitoring work and its application of innovative technologies.

     

    To begin her visit, Mrs Yeung met Director of Environmental Protection Samuel Chui and directorate staff and was briefed on developments in various area of the department’s work.

     

    In recent years, it has introduced or developed a variety of innovative technological devices in its operations. One of these is the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Environmental Air Nuisance Investigation Robot Dog, known as “AI Dog”.

     

    Unlike traditional methods that rely on the experience and sense of smell of investigators, the AI Dog enhances accuracy and efficiency through continuous machine learning. Now on trial in various district, it identifies and locates sources of pollution by using Internet of Things technology to search data on the Hong Kong Air Pollutant Emission Inventory.

     

    The department’s Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), meanwhile, enables it to track leakage in underground sewage pipes without digging up roads.

     

    The department’s staff gave Mrs Yeung demonstrations of both the AI Dog and GPR in operation.

     

    At the department’s Smart Command and Control Centre, Mrs Yeung received a briefing on the use of an Unmanned Submarine instead of divers to conduct monitoring and sampling in the Shing Mun River via remote control and real-time images.

     

    Staff also introduced her to the Mesh Network Sampling Robot Squad, which conducts quality sampling and investigations in remote or dangerous areas in a more efficient manner.

     

    Mrs Yeung said the department’s AI Dog and AI Unmanned Submarine can be viewed as AI civil servants as they improve work efficiency and enable better follow-up solutions to pollution problems that were difficult to handle in the past. She said that resolving problems in a shorter time gives the public a greater sense of satisfaction.

     

    The civil service chief highlighted that the 2025-26 Budget reinforced the Government’s fiscal consolidation programme. Bureaus and departments are required to further review their resource allocations and work priorities, and provide public services in a more cost-effective manner through streamlining procedures.

     

    She encouraged all departments to step up their efforts to apply technology in their work to enhance efficiency and manpower utilisation.

     

    Before concluding her visit, Mrs Yeung met staff representatives of various grades in the department.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Knocking down abandoned buildings has a lot of benefits for Detroit − but it’s costly for cities

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Mark Skidmore, Professor of Government Finance and Policy, Michigan State University

    Detroit has knocked down more than 20,000 homes since 2014. The process continues. Patrick Gorski/NurPhoto via Getty Images

    Few cities have experienced a sharper economic change of fortune than Detroit.

    It was one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation between 1900 and 1950.

    In the nearly 75 years since then, it has lost over 60% of its population, becoming the defining example of a postindustrial city in decline.

    Chronic population loss creates a significant mismatch in the housing market. An ongoing reduction in the demand for housing leads to an oversupply of vacant properties. Vacant properties can quickly deteriorate due to neglect, arson, vandalism and crime.

    Shuttered and repossessed homes line the streets of a middle-class neighborhood on the East side of Detroit.
    Charles Ommanney via Getty Images

    Rehabilitating abandoned and neglected properties is often not possible. It can take just a few years for vacant homes to transition from being habitable to blighted. What should policymakers do with the growing unwanted inventory?

    One option is to do nothing and wait for real estate developers to clean up the parcels and hopefully rebuild.

    In the absence of private sector action, which often fails to take hold, city officials may implement policies to remove blighted properties and stabilize neighborhoods. That’s what Detroit has been doing since 1974. As a result, 17% of the city’s land area is now composed of vacant land where houses once stood.

    As a group of economists who study municipal finance of cities experiencing population decline, we took a deep look at the success of razing blighted properties in Detroit.

    Detroit removes thousands of blighted homes

    Between 2014 and 2019, the city demolished 20,800 blighted properties through the Detroit Demolition Program. The heaviest concentration of demolitions occurred in the lowest-valued areas of the city such as the Brightmoor, Burbank and Midwest neighborhoods.

    Location of demolitions and property sales prices in Detroit from 2009 to 2019. The heaviest concentration of demolitions occurred in the lowest-valued areas of the city, as shown in red and orange.
    Alvayay Torrejón, Paredes, Skidmore (2023), CC BY-NC-ND

    From 2014 to 2019, many of the demolitions were funded by the federal government’s Hardest Hit Fund. The goals of the fund are to help reduce homeowner foreclosures and stabilize neighborhoods. This fund spent US$52 million tearing down homes in Detroit.

    As with any government intervention, it is critical to evaluate costs and benefits so leaders can be sure they are implementing the most effective revitalization strategy.

    Costs and benefits of demolition

    Research demonstrates that demolitions not only eliminate blight, they also stabilize neighborhood housing values, improve property tax compliance, reduce crime and eliminate toxic materials such as asbestos and lead paint.

    From the perspective of city finances, the success of razing a property can be assessed in two ways.

    First, does it increase the value of nearby properties? A study that two of us published in 2017 answered this question in the affirmative: Tearing down an abandoned building in Detroit does increase the value of nearby properties by a small amount: $162.

    Second, how do changes in the value of those nearby properties affect Detroit’s property tax revenue? If property values increase, property taxes increase too, so it is possible to calculate how long it takes for the city to recoup its costs. On average, demolishing a blighted structure in Detroit costs $21,556.

    In the case of Detroit during the period examined, our research shows the benefits of the program in terms of increased property values are limited and do not fully cover the demolition costs.

    Even if you optimistically assume the benefits of demolition extend to properties as far as about 2½ blocks away, the increase in property tax revenue generated from the demolition is too small to cover demolition costs.

    To understand why, imagine drawing a circle around the razed property with a radius of about 0.125 miles, which is how we defined 2½ city blocks, and then examining the change in property value and tax revenue of the properties within the circle. While removing a blighted property is a win in many other ways, it doesn’t have much effect on neighboring home values.

    Our findings indicate that vacant lots also have a negative effect on the property values of surrounding homes. For example, for homes within 2½ city blocks, the net effect of a demolition without redevelopment is an increase in neighboring home prices of $162. In this case, it would take 50 years for money collected via property taxes to equal the costs of demolition. It’s hard to say what happens if the lot is redeveloped because so few are.

    If you measure the effect using smaller rings around the razed property, full cost recovery times get even longer.

    State and federal assistance

    Yet over the long run, these demolitions are essential for maintaining quality of life and positioning the city for future redevelopment. Some would argue that it is the role of government to pay for programs like this in struggling cities. Under President George W. Bush, for example, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development implemented the Neighborhood Stabilization Program, which included funds for the demolition of blighted structures.

    The federal Hardest Hit Fund covered many of the demolitions in Detroit from 2014 to 2019. When that program ended, city voters showed their enthusiasm for removing blighted properties by approving Proposal N, a $250 million Detroit-funded plan to continue the demolition program.

    However, additional property taxes to cover demolition costs may further put the city at competitive disadvantage in the region, nationally and globally. Detroit already has among the highest property taxes in the country.

    Allowing the state to foot the bill would keep property taxes affordable, but support for such programs is mixed in the state Capitol in Lansing due to resource constraints and the fact that other Michigan cities such as Flint have also struggled with declines in population.

    Lessons learned from Detroit’s razing

    Detroit and other postindustrial American cities such as Cleveland, Ohio, and Gary, Indiana, have experienced population declines in recent decades, but these challenges are by no means exclusively a United States phenomenon.

    Throughout history, cities such as Rome have experienced enormous drops in population. Paris lost population in medieval times. Some ancient cities such as Carthage and Petra have been fully abandoned.

    In the coming years, Japan, Korea and a number of European countries are on track to experience significant population decline. Many resource-dependent cities in China have the same problem.

    That means lessons learned from Detroit may be helpful to policymakers in other places. Many leaders in Detroit did not imagine that the population would decline over decades, and they didn’t plan for that happening.

    Other cities have an opportunity to prepare. They can start by diversifying their economies and city revenue streams so that government has the funding to step in and ensure that quality of life is maintained as population shrinks.

    Mark Skidmore receives funding from the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy.

    Camila Alvayay-Torrejon receives funding from Lincoln Institute of Land Policy.

    Dusan Paredes Araya receives funding from Lincoln Institute of Land Policy.

    – ref. Knocking down abandoned buildings has a lot of benefits for Detroit − but it’s costly for cities – https://theconversation.com/knocking-down-abandoned-buildings-has-a-lot-of-benefits-for-detroit-but-its-costly-for-cities-248994

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Council commissions the Activation of Active Travel Programme

    Source: City of Preston

    Preston City Council has successfully commissioned the Activation of Active Travel Programme to four local providers who will support residents to become happier and healthier as they get more active through cycling, wheeling and walking.

    The funding was secured from Lancashire County Council to improve walking, cycling and wheeling facilities with the aim of boosting these forms of active travel.

    The Active Travel programme aims to put in place measures to support and encourage residents to change their behaviour and use existing active travel infrastructure. It will support Preston in achieving its priorities by helping residents, particularly underrepresented groups, to do more cycling, wheeling and walking for everyday journeys.

    The scheme also advances the Council’s Community Wealth Building strategy by enabling collaborative work with local partners to encourage residents to use local assets for community and environmental benefit.

    County Councillor Michael Green, Cabinet member for Health and Wellbeing at Lancashire County Council, said:

    Lancashire County Council allocated £30,000 to support this project, which aims to enhance targeted infrastructure such as cycle lanes, junction improvements, and pavements.

    These improvements align with Lancashire’s Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans and Highway Masterplan. The project aims to improve access to walking, cycling and wheeling modes of travel, such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters, particularly for hard-to-reach groups who are less likely to engage in physical activity. This initiative is fantastic for the overall health and wellbeing of the community.

    Preston has a large amount of public green spaces ideal for cycling and walking such as Avenham Park, Moor Park and The Guild Wheel.

    Further developments and public realm improvements such as the new tram bridge and Queen’s Street cycle route are also ongoing, funded by central government.

    Councillor Zafar Coupland, Preston City Council Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing said:

    This is a wonderful initiative encouraging Preston residents to make the most of the incredible spaces we have on our doorstep. Not only, will this programme encourage people to become more active, but it will also give residents the opportunity to discover places they may not have been to before.

    Together, these projects will build the confidence and skills of residents in the city supporting them to take part in cycling, wheeling and walking. They will particularly target underrepresented and vulnerable groups such as ethnic minority communities, those living in socio-economically deprived communities, and those with a disability or long-term health condition.

    The Activation programme comprises of three projects and four delivery partners:

    Supporting cycle commuting

    This project will be delivered by Preston Pedals, a community organisation that promotes a culture of everyday cycling in Preston for proven benefits for health and wellbeing, as well as tackling climate change.

    Dr. Julie Ridley, Co-director of Preston Pedals Ltd. said:

    Preston Pedals are excited to be awarded the grant for cycle commuting. We’re looking forward to working with volunteer Ride Buddies who will be trained as ride leaders, and we’ll support them to buddy others to cycle more. 

    Together we’ll create commuting routes for everyday cycling on quieter and off road in different parts of Preston, test them out, then turn these user-friendly routes into digital and paper maps for more people to use.

    Accessible cycling events

    This project will be delivered by Wheels for All, who currently have a Hub at UCLan Sports Arena and provide inclusive cycling sessions that embrace all children and adults with disabilities and differing needs to engage with quality cycling activity, using adapted cycles such as handcycles, trikes and wheelchair transporters to assist in building confidence and independence in cycling.

    Ian Tierney, CEO of Wheels for All said:

    Wheels for All is really excited to be part of the Preston Active Travel scheme. Our programme will consist of a series of outreach accessible cycling activities across the city of Preston giving people all abilities the chance to enjoy accessible cycling in their local communities.

    Widening Participation in Walking

    This project will be delivered by Preston Muslim Forum and Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

    Preston Muslim Forum seeks to improve the lives and wellbeing of black, Asian and ethnic minority communities in the inner wards of Preston by fostering understanding and co-operation and providing training and skills.

    Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust will support staff, patients and carers to get out for regular walks around Preston and Chorley and South Ribble Hospitals by providing training to walking leaders.

    Neil Pease, Chief People Officer at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, said:

    We are delighted to have been successful in our bid for funding from Lancashire County Council’s Active Travel Scheme. Our colleagues told us that they would like to increase the amount of physical activity they do at work – and our new walking scheme will be the perfect way to do this.

    As part of the new walking scheme, we will develop a network of trained walk leaders who will help our colleagues to participate in a planned programme of regular walking activities. Our walk leaders will be organising and leading short, pre-planned lunchtime walks around local routes, which will help our colleagues to build their confidence and enjoy the many benefits of exercise as part of their daily lives.

    Thank you to the County Council for enabling us to offer this fantastic opportunity, which we believe has the potential to make a big difference to the health and wellbeing of many colleagues.

    The Active Travel programme promises to be a positive addition to the existing schemes that are already on offer in Preston such as free tennis lessons and football sessions, which have been a proven success in various parks across Preston.

    Additional Information

    Preston City Council actively applies and prioritises the principles of Community Wealth Building wherever applicable and appropriate. Community Wealth Building is an approach which aims to ensure the economic system builds wealth and prosperity for everyone.   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lord Mayor to commence Commonwealth Day celebrations

    Source: City of Birmingham

    This year’s Commonwealth Day celebration will commemorate the annual event’s 76th anniversary, with performances by a local school at a special citizenship ceremony.

    Commonwealth Day, which is on Monday 10 March, is observed by people in 56 countries and all over the Commonwealth – in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and the Americas, the Pacific and Europe.

    The 2025 theme is ‘Together We Thrive’, and the day is an opportunity to promote the unity, diversity and shared values of the Commonwealth family across the world.  

    The celebrations, led by the Lord Major of Birmingham, Councillor Ken Wood, will begin with a Commonwealth Day Service at Birmingham Cathedral and will be attended by the Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, The High Sheriff for the West Midlands and faith leaders.

    This event will be followed by a special Citizenship ceremony at Birmingham Register Office, in Holliday Street where the Lord Major will welcome Birmingham Commonwealth Association chairman Keith Stokes-Smith.

    During the ceremony the Lord Mayor will present citizenship certificates to 30 of Birmingham’s newest British citizens from nine different Commonwealth nations.

    The citizenship ceremony will feature a musical performance by a local school, who will sing a specially composed song – Come Together Everybody – written by Birmingham music teacher Sarah Baker, commissioned and permission given to perform by Services For Education.

    The Lord Mayor, Councillor Ken Wood, said: “It will give me great pleasure to celebrate Commonwealth Day and meet some of Birmingham’s newest British citizens who have come from a number of Commonwealth countries and made this city their home.

    “As the first citizen of Birmingham, a wonderfully diverse and truly international city with more than 187 different nationalities represented, I am very much looking forward to marking this important occasion.”

    Keith Stokes-Smith, chairman of Birmingham Commonwealth Association, said “Commonwealth Day is always the second Monday in March and is celebrated around all the 56 Commonwealth nations. The Birmingham Commonwealth Association is honoured to lead Birmingham’s Commonwealth Day celebrations.

    “As the nation’s second city with a diverse commonwealth community, this year we are pleased to be working with youth choirs as part of our Commonwealth Day events, reflecting one of the commonwealth values and principles, the importance of engaging young people.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Defence signs $ 248 million Deal for procurement of engines for T-72 Tanks for Indian Army

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with. Rosoboronexport (RoE), Russian Federation worth $ 248 million for procurement of 1000 HP Engines for T-72 Tanks in fully formed, completely knocked down and semi knocked down conditions.

    The deal also includes Transfer of Technology (ToT) from M/s RoE to M/s Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (Heavy Vehicle Factory), Avadi, Chennai, for integration and subsequent licensed production of engines under ToT to boost the “Make in India’ initiative in Defence Sector.

    T-72 is the mainstay of tank fleet of the Indian Army which is at present fitted with 780 HP Engine. Equipping the existing fleet of T-72 Tanks with 1000 HP Engine will enhance the battle field mobility and offensive capability of Indian Army.

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    VK/SR/GC

    (Release ID: 2109146) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mumbai to Host WAVES 2025 Summit: Maharashtra Chief Secretary and Union I&B Secretary Co-Chair High-Level Meeting

    Source: Government of India

    Mumbai to Host WAVES 2025 Summit: Maharashtra Chief Secretary and Union I&B Secretary Co-Chair High-Level Meeting

    Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik Commits Full Support from Maharashtra Government for WAVES 2025 Summit Success

    WAVES Summit a Global Platform for the Media and Entertainment Sector: I&B Secretary, Sanjay Jaju

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:05PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 7 March 2025

     

    Mumbai is set to host WAVES 2025 Summit, an event poised to position India at the forefront of the global creator economy. Chief Secretary, Government of Maharashtra, Ms. Sujata Saunik and Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, Shri Sanjay Jaju co-chaired a high-level meeting today, 07th March 2025 with officials from various Government departments for the successful execution of WAVES 2025. The Government of Maharashtra has assured its full support, ensuring world-class infrastructure, hospitality, and logistics to make the event a landmark occasion.

    Chief Secretary, Government of Maharashtra, Ms Sujata Saunik directed that a State Level Committee be formed for this global Summit. She also stated that each department of the administration will work in coordination seamlessly for the success of the Summit.

    Speaking on the occasion, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, said, “This Summit is a global platform for the Media and Entertainment sector. The main aim of this Summit is to develop the Indian media and entertainment sector by connecting it to its global media counterparts.”

    The meeting covered key points such as forming a joint coordination committee and arranging logistics and outdoor publicity. The meeting also formulated a comprehensive outreach plan, with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting leading the effort to invite global leaders, individuals of eminence and industry representatives. Officials gave special attention to ensuring security, emergency services, and seamless connectivity for all delegates attending the event. A dedicated senior nodal officer will oversee coordination efforts to guarantee smooth execution.

    Senior officials from both the Government of India and Government of Maharashtra attended the meeting to establish seamless coordination across logistics, hospitality, cultural activities, and administrative support, ensuring the highest standards of event management and global participation.

    Principal Director General, PIB Shri. Dhirendra Ojha, Director General, Central Bureau of Communication, Shri. Yogesh Baweja, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Sanjeev Shankar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, C. Senthil Rajan, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Ajay Nagbhushan and nodal officers from Press Information Bureau, National Film Development Corporation of India, All India Radio, Doordarshan, and the WAVES Council attended the meeting. Officials from the Government of Maharashtra included the Municipal Commissioner of Brihan Mumbai Municipal Corporation, the Additional Chief Secretary of Cultural Affairs, the Principal Secretary of Tourism, and the Chief Executive Officer of MIDC, along with senior officials from various key departments.

    Following the meeting, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and senior officials conducted a detailed recce of the logistical arrangements to assess readiness for WAVES 2025.

    Keep an eye on this ground-breaking summit, where industry titans will converge to shape the future of the digital and creative economies. https://wavesindia.org/

     

    * * *

    PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Nikita Joshi/ Dhanalakshmi/ Dharshana |

     

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

    (Release ID: 2109121) Visitor Counter : 61

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SITI visits Portugal (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SITI visits Portugal (with photos)
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    The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, led a delegation of representatives from Hong Kong’s innovation and technology (I&T) sector to visit Lisbon, Portugal, on March 6 (Lisbon time).     Professor Sun and the delegation visited Taguspark, which is the largest science and technology park and incubator in Portugal, to learn about the latest effort of Taguspark in pooling technology companies to move in, developing applied science and technology and promoting economic activities covering multiple areas.     Professor Sun and the delegation then met with representatives of the Oeiras Valley Investment Agency and were briefed on the agency’s work in promoting the municipality’s economic growth and attracting investment. The two parties exchanged views on promoting collaboration between innovative parks of Hong Kong and Portugal, as well as investment and exchanges among enterprises in the two places. They also had an exchange with several local enterprises.      In the evening, Professor Sun met with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Portuguese Republic, Mr Zhao Bentang, to brief him on the new initiatives by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in promoting I&T, and developing new industrialisation to support the high-quality economic growth of Hong Kong. They also explored ways to enhance co-operation between Hong Kong and Portugal in the I&T field.     Members of the delegation include heads from the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC), Cyberport, the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute and the Hong Kong Microelectronics Research and Development Institute, as well as representatives of 24 local I&T enterprises or institutions. The HKSTPC and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council co-ordinated the participation of the I&T representatives of the enterprises and institutions at the MWC 2025.     Professor Sun will conclude the visit in Portugal on March 7 and will return to Hong Kong in the afternoon on March 8 (Hong Kong time).

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 9:00

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Missing man in Sau Mau Ping located

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Missing man in Sau Mau Ping located
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    A man who went missing in Sau Mau Ping has been located.     Zhou Zhibin, aged 34, went missing after he left his residence in On Tai Estate on February 6. His family made a report to Police on February 14.     The man was located on Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok in the small hours today (March 7). He sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 11:44

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong and Macao cohost investment promotion seminar to encourage Macao enterprises to expand overseas via Hong Kong (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong and Macao cohost investment promotion seminar to encourage Macao enterprises to expand overseas via Hong Kong (with photos)
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    The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, met with the Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region, Mr Sam Hou-fai, at Government House last month to exchange views on further promoting Hong Kong’s co-operation with Macao and the high-quality development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). To implement and enhance co-operation between the two places, Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) cohosted an investment promotion seminar with the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute of the Macao Special Administrative Region in Macao yesterday (March 6), receiving about 90 local representatives from various sectors, including manufacturing, branding, retail, food and beverage (F&B), import and export trading, as well as chambers and associations. The seminar aimed to update Macao enterprises on Hong Kong’s latest business environment and new opportunities, especially in retail, F&B and trade sectors, encouraging them to leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages to expand overseas.     Entitled Macao Enterprises Expansion Series – Hong Kong’s New Business Opportunities Seminar (Retail, F&B and Trade), the seminar marked the first collaboration between the two promotion agencies in 2025, aiming to enhance learning from each other and strengthen co-operation between the two cities, as well as to explore new business opportunities in the GBA.     “Hong Kong and Macao share a strong bond as dynamic and complementary economies within the GBA,” said Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK Mr Arnold Lau. “Macao goods have long been a favourite among Hong Kong consumers, showcasing the strong cultural and economic ties between the two vibrant cities. By expanding into Hong Kong, Macao enterprises can extend their reach not only to the local market, but also promote their products to the international and Mainland visitors passing through Hong Kong. Moreover, Hong Kong has many trade shows that attract international buyers. The city is an ideal platform for Macao enterprises to connect to the world and expand globally,” he explained.     At the seminar, the President of the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute of the Macao Special Administrative Region, Mr Vincent U, said, “Hong Kong and Macao have maintained close business co-operation and commercial ties for many years, including holding joint investment promotion activities to promote opportunities in the GBA. Building on this long-standing collaboration, we aim to further strengthen two-way investment co-operation and explore more opportunities for Hong Kong-Macao collaborations and the development of the GBA market.”     The Head of Consumer Products of InvestHK, Ms Angelica Leung, and the Head of Tourism and Hospitality of InvestHK, Ms Sindy Wong, highlighted the latest industry trends and shared case studies respectively with Macao enterprises during the seminar, helping them to gain a better understanding of Hong Kong’s market and advantages. They also provided information on the latest government policies, including details on industry events and available funding support to help businesses expand, enhance competitiveness through digital transformation and explore international markets. Macao enterprises that have a presence in Hong Kong also shared their practical insights at the event, encouraging local enterprises to raise brand awareness and “go global” via Hong Kong.     InvestHK will continue to collaborate with related Macao organisations to jointly promote business opportunities in Hong Kong, assisting local enterprises to expand overseas via the city.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 10:00

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Three nominations received for Labour Advisory Board By-election of Employee Representative

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Three nominations received for Labour Advisory Board By-election of Employee Representative
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    The By-election of Employee Representative to the Labour Advisory Board (LAB) for filling a vacancy of the current LAB term (2025-2026) will be held on March 29 (Saturday) at Function Rooms, 3/F, South Tower, The Salisbury – YMCA of Hong Kong, 41 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. The Labour Department (LD) received three valid nominations of candidates from employee unions registered under the Trade Unions Ordinance during the nomination period from February 3 to 25, 2025.     The candidates, listed in the order of receipt of nomination forms by the LD, are:* Mr Yang KaiqiangVice Chairman,Hong Kong Seamen’s Union* Mr Chong Yuk-shingChairman,Hong Kong Security Guards Alliance* Mr Yeung Wai-leungChairman,Union of Government School Teachers     A total of 837 employee unions registered as electors have appointed authorised representatives to vote in this by-election. The electors will soon be informed in writing of the candidate list and detailed proceedings on the by-election day. Authorised representatives may cast votes at the polling station at Function Rooms, 3/F, South Tower, The Salisbury – YMCA of Hong Kong, from 9am to 5pm on the by-election day of March 29.     Candidates may monitor the counting of votes in person on the by-election day. The Assistant Commissioner for Labour (Development) will act as the Returning Officer.     The respective lists of candidates and electors with authorised representatives appointed, as well as the rules and procedures for the by-election, are available on the homepage of the LD (www.labour.gov.hk/eng/news/LAB_By-election2025.htm). Enquiries on matters relating to this by-election can be made at 2852 4024.     The LAB is a tripartite consultative body comprising representatives of employees and employers to advise the Commissioner for Labour on labour matters.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 15:00

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Promotion Centre organises Youth Entrepreneurship Carnival in Nansha

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Promotion Centre organises Youth Entrepreneurship Carnival in Nansha
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    The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Promotion Centre, under the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office of the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau, held the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Youth Entrepreneurship Carnival in Nansha, Guangzhou, today (March 7). The Carnival, with the participation of over 40 youth start-ups, provided a platform for young entrepreneurs in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to showcase their ventures as well as exchanging and sharing ideas.           In her opening address at the Carnival, the Commissioner for the Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Ms Maisie Chan, said, “The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has been encouraging and supporting Hong Kong young people to aim high and seize the vast opportunities offered by the GBA to pursue and realise their dreams. To assist young people in grasping the development opportunities of the GBA, the HKSAR Government has introduced various schemes and measures. For entrepreneurship, the HKSAR Government has rolled out the Funding Scheme for Youth Entrepreneurship in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Funding Scheme for Experiential Programmes at Innovation and Entrepreneurial Bases under the Youth Development Fund, among others, with a view to encouraging Hong Kong young people with ambition and creativity to start and develop their businesses in the Mainland cities of the GBA, thereby realising their aspirations.”      Ms Chan added that the Promotion Centre was set up by the HKSAR Government to enhance support for Hong Kong residents and enterprises in the Mainland cities of the GBA. She encouraged Hong Kong young people who are interested in developing careers in the GBA to actively participate in the activities organise by the Promotion Centre to foster mutual exchange and inspire more innovative ideas.       The Carnival was jointly organised by the Promotion Centre, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Youth Exchange Promotional Association, and the Guangzhou Nansha Hong Kong and Macao Youth Wule Service Centre. The event features a youth entrepreneurship bazaar, thematic sharing sessions, and live performances by young people, etc. Among them, the youth entrepreneurship bazaar contains five main themes: advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, new media, and integrated projects, with over 40 booths showcasing innovative achievements of young entrepreneurs and facilitating exchanges.       Young entrepreneurs were invited to share their entrepreneurial journeys. On-site displays included information boards on youth entrepreneurship policies and a dedicated zone showcasing youth entrepreneurship bases, enabling participants to learn about relevant policies and support measures to facilitate their planning of entrepreneurial pathways.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 16:00

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Medicine shop salesman convicted of engaging in commercial practice involving misleading omission for selling Chinese herbal medicine

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Medicine shop salesman convicted of engaging in commercial practice involving misleading omission for selling Chinese herbal medicine
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    A medicine shop salesman was earlier convicted of engaging in a commercial practice involving a misleading omission in the sale of a Chinese herbal medicine, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO), at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts on February 21. After being remanded in custody for 14 days, the salesman was sentenced to 120 hours’ community service order today (March 7) and must compensate the victim in the case by an amount of $11,000.     Customs earlier received information from a Mainland visitor alleging that a staff member of a medicine shop in Mong Kok misled him in the course of selling a Chinese herbal medicine. After an investigation, it was revealed that the staff member did not disclose the pricing unit of the medicine despite the visitor’s inquiry, misleading the visitor to believe that the unit price of the medicine was calculated per catty. After the medicine was ground into powder, the staff member revealed that it was priced per mace and cost $22,400 in total, which was 160 times higher than what was expected. Eventually the visitor was forced to purchase a portion of the medicine at around half the price.     Customs has long been concerned about visitors being misled into making purchases by unfair trade practices and has established a Quick Response Team to handle urgent complaints lodged by short-haul visitors. The complaints will be promptly referred to investigators to handle with priority.     Customs reminds traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO. Consumers should procure products from reputable traders. They are also reminded to check carefully the total price and unit price of the goods before making a payment, and to retain the transaction receipts and related records, which can be used as the basis for follow-up action in case a complaint is lodged in the future.       Under the TDO, any trader who engages in a commercial practice that omits or hides material information or provides material information in a manner that is unclear, unintelligible, ambiguous or untimely, and as a result causes, or is likely to cause, an average consumer to make a transactional decision, commits an offence of misleading omissions. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.     ???     Members of the public may report any suspected violation of the TDO to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 15:08

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointments to Independent Commission on Remuneration for Members of the ExCo and the Legislature, and Officials under the Political Appointment System of the HKSAR

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appointments to Independent Commission on Remuneration for Members of the ExCo and the Legislature, and Officials under the Political Appointment System of the HKSAR
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    The Government announced today (March 7) that the Chief Executive has reappointed Mr Carlson Tong as Chairman, and Mr Philip Tsai Wing-chung and Ms Winnie Wong Chi-shun as members of the Independent Commission on Remuneration for Members of the Executive Council and the Legislature, and Officials under the Political Appointment System of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. The reappointments are for a period of one year with effect from April 1, 2025.     The Independent Commission advises the Government on matters relating to the systems of remuneration for Members of the Executive Council and the Legislative Council, as well as those for officials under the Political Appointment System. Other members of the Independent Commission are Mr Kevin Lam Sze-cay, Ms Winnie Tam Wan-chi and Professor Alexander Wai Ping-kong.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 15:00

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Person in custody rescued from suicide dies in public hospital today

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Person in custody rescued from suicide dies in public hospital today
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    ​A 49-year-old male person in custody at Tai Lam Correctional Institution attempted suicide on March 5. After being rescued, he was sent to a public hospital for treatment and was certified dead today (March 7).           At 3.10am on March 5, the person in custody attempted suicide by hanging with a bedsheet tied to the grille bars of his dormitory. Correctional officers immediately provided first-aid treatment to the person in custody and sent him to a public hospital for treatment. After being rescued, he remained unconscious and received in-patient treatment at the public hospital. His condition deteriorated today, and he was certified dead at 12.08pm.           The case has been reported to the Police. A death inquest will be held by the Coroner’s Court.           The person in custody was sentenced to imprisonment for the offence of theft in February 2025.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 17:45

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates and launches various development works worth over Rs 2580 crore in Silvassa,Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates and launches various development works worth over Rs 2580 crore in Silvassa,Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, are our pride, our heritage: PM

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu have reached a saturation level in several schemes: PM

    Jan Aushadhi means guarantee of affordable treatment! The mantra of Jan Aushadhi is – lower prices, effective medicines: PM

    We all should reduce 10% of the cooking oil in our food,manage with 10% less oil every month,This will be a significant step towards reducing obesity: PM

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:59PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched various development works worth over ₹2580 crore in Silvassa, Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu today. He also inaugurated the Namo Hospital in Silvassa earlier to the event. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude towards the dedicated workers of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu for giving him the opportunity to connect and engage with the region. He acknowledged the warmth and the long-standing connection he has had with the people, sharing that his bond with the region is decades old. He highlighted the progress the region has made since his government came to power in 2014, transforming the potential of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu into a modern and progressive identity.

    “The natural beauty of Silvassa and the love of its people, as well as Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, you all know how long my connection with you has been. This decades-old bond, the joy I feel when I come here, only you and I understand it”, Shri Modi added. The Prime Minister mentioned that when he first visited, the area was vastly different, with people questioning what could come of a small coastal region. However, he always had faith in the people of this place and their capabilities. The Prime Minister pointed out that under the leadership of his government, this faith has been transformed into progress, turning Silvassa into a cosmopolitan city, thriving with new opportunities for all its residents.

    Shri Modi also shared an example of Singapore, which, in its early days, was a small fishing village. He emphasized that the transformation of Singapore happened due to the strong willpower of its people.  The Prime Minister encouraged the citizens of the Union Territory to adopt a similar resolve for development, assuring them that he would stand by them, but they too must take the initiative to move forward.

    “Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu is not just a Union Territory but a source of pride and heritage. This is why we are transforming the region into a model state known for its holistic development”,  Shri Modi emphasized. The Prime Minister stated how he envisions the region to be recognized for its high-tech infrastructure, modern healthcare services, world-class educational institutes, tourism, blue economy, industrial progress, new opportunities for youth, and women’s participation in development.

    Shri Modi noted that under the leadership of Shri Praful Patel and with the support of the central government, the region is fast progressing towards these goals. Over the last 10 years, significant progress has been made in development. The region is now emerging on the national map with a distinct identity in terms of development. Various government schemes, such as One Nation One Ration Card, Jal Jeevan Mission, BharatNet, PM Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima, and PM Suraksha Bima, have brought substantial benefits to the people, especially the underprivileged and tribal communities.

    The Prime Minister announced that the next goal is to achieve 100% saturation in initiatives like Smart Cities Mission, Samagra Shiksha, and PM Mudra Yojana. He highlighted that for the first time, the government is reaching out directly to people with these welfare schemes, ensuring that every citizen benefits from the government’s plans.

    The Prime Minister  highlighted the transformation of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu in infrastructure, education, employment, and industrial development. He pointed out that earlier, youth from the region had to go outside for higher education, but today, the region is home to six national-level institutes. These include Namo Medical College, Gujarat National Law University, IIIT Diu, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, and the Daman Engineering College. These institutions have made Silvassa and the region a new education hub. “To further benefit the youth, seats have been reserved for them in these institutes. Earlier, I was happy to see that this is a region where education is provided  in four different mediums: Hindi, English, Gujarati, and Marathi. Now, I am also proud to say that children in primary and junior schools here are studying in smart classrooms”, Shri Modi added.

    Shri Modi said that in recent years, modern healthcare services have expanded significantly in the region. “In 2023, I  had the opportunity to inaugurate Namo Medical College here. Along with this, a new hospital with a capacity of 450 beds has been added, which was also inaugurated today. The healthcare facilities in Silvassa will greatly benefit the tribal community in the region”, Shri Modi underscored. 

    The Prime Minister  highlighted the significance of today’s healthcare projects, as it coincides with Jan Aushadhi Diwas. He emphasized that Jan Aushadhi ensures affordable treatment. Under this initiative, the government is providing quality hospitals, free treatment under Ayushman Bharat, and affordable medicines through Jan Aushadhi centers. More than 15,000 Jan Aushadhi centers across the country offer medicines at up to 80% lower prices. Around 40 Jan Aushadhi centers are benefiting the people of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu. The government aims to open 25,000 Jan Aushadhi centers nationwide in the future. “Since the launch of this initiative, nearly ₹6,500 crore worth of affordable medicines have been provided to the needy, saving over ₹30,000 crore for the poor and middle class. This initiative has made the treatment of several critical diseases more affordable, demonstrating the government’s sensitivity to the needs of ordinary citizens”, Shri Modi emphasised.

    The Prime Minister addressed the rising concern of lifestyle diseases, particularly obesity, which has become a major health threat. He referred to a recent report predicting that by 2050, over 440 million Indians will suffer from obesity. “This alarming figure indicates that one in every three people could face serious health issues due to obesity, potentially making it a life-threatening condition”, Shri Modi stated.

    To combat this, the Prime Minister urged everyone to take proactive steps to reduce obesity. He emphasized the importance of reducing the consumption of cooking oil by 10% each month, asking people to commit to using 10% less oil in their daily cooking. He also encouraged the inclusion of regular physical activity, like walking a few kilometers daily, to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent obesity. “India is committed to achieving the vision of a developed nation. Only a healthy nation can achieve such a goal”, Shri Modi emphasised.

    Shri Modi highlighted the rapid industrial growth in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu over the past decade. With the launch of the Mission Manufacturing initiative in the recent budget, the region is poised to benefit significantly. Hundreds of new industries have started, and several existing industries have expanded, attracting thousands of crores in investment. These industries are providing large-scale employment opportunities, especially for the tribal community, women, and marginalized groups. “The Gir Adarsh Jeevika Yojana has been implemented to empower SC, ST, OBC, and women, while new self-employment opportunities have been created with the establishment of small dairy farms”, Shri Modi added.

    The Prime Minister underscored that tourism has also emerged as a major source of employment. The region’s beaches and rich heritage are attracting tourists from both India and abroad. Developments like the Ram Setu, Namo Path, Tent City in Daman, and the popular Night Market are enhancing the region’s appeal. Shri Modi stated that a large bird sanctuary has been established, and plans for an eco-resort in Dudhani are underway. Coastal promenade and beach development work is being carried out in Diu. “The Diu Beach Games in 2024 boosted interest in beach sports, and the Blue Flag certification has made the Ghoghla Beach in Diu a popular tourist destination. Additionally, a cable car project is being developed in Diu, offering spectacular views of the Arabian Sea, making the region one of India’s top tourist destinations”, Shri Modi added.

    Highlighting the significant connectivity improvements in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi  said that a bullet train station is being built near Dadra, and the Mumbai-Delhi Expressway passes through Silvassa. Over the past few years, several kilometers of new roads have been constructed, with over 500 kilometers of road work currently underway, involving investments worth thousands of crores. “The region is also benefiting from the UDAN scheme, and the local airport is being upgraded to enhance connectivity. The government is committed to ensuring comprehensive development and improving infrastructure in the region”, Shri Modi added.

    The Prime Minister  expressed his happiness that Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu are becoming models of development, good governance, and ease of living. He pointed out that in the past, people had to visit government offices repeatedly to resolve their issues, but now most government-related tasks can be completed with just one click on their mobile phones. This new approach has greatly benefited the tribal areas that were neglected for decades. Special camps are being organized in villages to listen to people’s problems and resolve them on the spot. The Prime Minister congratulated Shri Praful Patel and his team for these efforts and assured the people that the government will continue working towards the development of the region.“I congratulate the people of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu for the successful development projects launched today. I express my heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome, affection, and respect shown by the citizens of the Union Territory”, the Prime Minister concluded.

    Background

    Boosting healthcare facilities in all corners of the country has been a primary focus of the Prime Minister. In line with this, he inaugurated NAMO Hospital (Phase I) in Silvassa. This 450 bedded hospital, built at the cost of over Rs 460 crore, will significantly strengthen healthcare services in the Union Territory. It will provide state-of-the-art medical care to the people in the region, especially the tribal communities.

    The Prime Minister also inaugurated and  laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects for the UT worth over Rs 2580 crore at Silvassa. These include various village roads and other road infrastructure, schools, health and wellness centres, Panchayat and administrative buildings, Anganwadi centres, water supply and sewage infrastructure among others. These projects aim to improve connectivity, promote industrial growth, encourage tourism, create employment opportunities and aim at enhancing public welfare initiatives in the region.

    Gir Adarsh Aajeevika Yojana aims to boost economic empowerment of women belonging to scheduled castes (SCs), scheduled tribes (STs), other backward classes (OBCs), minorities and divyangjan in the region through setting up small dairy farms and bringing social and economic changes in their lives. The Sylvan Didi scheme is an initiative to uplift women street vendors by providing them with aesthetically designed carts, with co funding from PM SVANIDHI scheme.

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIAN NAVY’S FIRST TRAINING SQUADRON CONCLUDES VISIT TO PHUKET DEEP SEA PORT, THAILAND

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

    The visit of First Training Squadron (1TS) – INS Sujata, INS Shardul and ICGS Veera to Phuket Deep Sea Port, Thailand concluded on a high note with coordinated tactical manoeuvres and exchange of sea riders during PASSEX with HTMS Huahin on 04 Mar 25. During the stay at harbour, bilateral activities between the Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy (RTN) included multiple professional exchanges, training visits and social interactions bolstering Navy-to-Navy connections.

    Capt Anshul Kishore, Senior Officer, 1TS along with Commanding Officers of INS Shardul, Sujata and ICGS Veera called on Vice Admiral Suwat Donsakul, Commander, 3rd Naval Area Command. The interactions focused on regional security, avenues for joint training exercises and goodwill activities.

    The sea trainees of 1TS visited 3rd Naval Area Command, Phangna Naval Port and HTMS Krabi providing opportunity for training interaction and sharing of best practices. A guided tour of 1TS ships was organised for school children, RTN personnel and Indian diaspora. Other highlights of the visit included a combined yoga session and friendly sports fixtures between both sides. An Indian Naval band concert was held at Patong beach witnessing huge footfall of tourists and local populace. An onboard reception was co-hosted by Indian Embassy and Senior Officer, 1TS which was attended by senior leadership from Royal Thai Navy, esteemed members of the Indian diaspora, diplomats and other distinguished Guests.

    The extant visit consolidates strong bonds of friendship between the two Navies and underscores Indian Navy’s commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation with its neighbours in line with the vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

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    VM/SPS                                                                                                       51/25

     

     

    (Release ID: 2109160) Visitor Counter : 52

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Centre notifies scheme for Cooperative Sugar Mills for conversion of existing sugarcane-based feedstock ethanol plants to multi-feedstock based plants

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:52PM by PIB Delhi

    • Increasing financial viability and better cash flows for Co-operative Sugar Mills
    • The Government of India is supporting Cooperative Sugar Mills (CSMs) by providing interest subvention for converting ethanol plants to multi-feedstock units.
    • This conversion allows CSMs to use maize and damaged food grains (DFG), ensuring year-round ethanol production and improved efficiency.
    • The initiative aligns with the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme, targeting 20% ethanol blending with petrol by 2025.

    To facilitate Cooperative Sugar Mills (CSMs), Department of Food & Public Distribution, Government of India, has notified a scheme for CSMs under modified Ethanol Interest Subvention Scheme for Conversion of their existing sugarcane-based feedstock ethanol plants into multi-feedstock based plants to use grains like Maize and Damaged Food Grains (DFG).

    Under this modified Ethanol Interest Subvention Scheme, Government is facilitating entrepreneurs with Interest subvention @ 6% per annum or 50% of rate of interest charged by banks/financial institutions, whichever is lower, on the loans to be extended by banks/financial institutions is being borne by the Central Government for five years including one-year moratorium.

    The sugarcane crushing period is limited to 4-5 months only in a year due to which sugar mills can operate for a limited period of time. This further leads to reduction in their overall operational efficiency and productivity. To ensure the functioning of Cooperative Sugar Mills (CSMs) throughout the year, their existing ethanol plants can be converted into multi-feedstock based plants to use grains like maize and DFG under the new modified scheme.

    The conversion to multi-feedstock based plants would not only make the existing ethanol plants of CSMs capable of operating when sugar based feedstocks are not available for ethanol production but will also improve efficiency and productivity of these plants.  As a result, these cooperative ethanol plants will have increased financial viability.

    The Government of India has been implementing Ethanol Blended with Petrol (EBP) Programme throughout the country. Under EBP Programme, Government has fixed the target of 20% blending of ethanol with petrol by 2025. The Government has notified various ethanol interest subvention schemes from July 2018 to April 2022.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

    food.pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2109157) Visitor Counter : 97

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Electrical and Mechanical Expo 2025 provides one-stop career information (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Electrical and Mechanical Expo 2025 provides one-stop career information (with photos)
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    The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group today (March 7) jointly held the Electrical and Mechanical (E&M) Expo 2025.      With the theme “E&M, Together We Forge Ahead”, the Expo provided information on career prospects, continuing education and training of the E&M industry. Trade representatives were invited to share the latest trade developments at career talks.      The Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services, Mr Poon Kwok-ying, said at the Expo that the EMSD is committed to driving the development of the E&M industry through digitalisation and the application of innovative technologies. He encouraged young people to seize opportunities and join the industry to pursue their aspirations and showcase their talents.      The representative of the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group and President of the Hong Kong Federation of Electrical and Mechanical Contractors Limited, Mr Emil Yu, said that with the launch of major construction projects, the prospects for the E&M industry are promising. He expressed hope that more young people will join this industry, which has significant development potential, to inject new impetus.      Established in 2012, the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group includes members from the EMSD. The Working Group is committed to promoting the sustainable development of the E&M industry.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 18:05

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: S for S departs for Thailand to co-ordinate rescue of six Hong Kong residents detained in Southeast Asia (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    S for S departs for Thailand to co-ordinate rescue of six Hong Kong residents detained in Southeast Asia (with photos)
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    The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, departed for Thailand earlier to participate in the co-ordination and rescue operation for six Hong Kong residents who were lured to Myanmar to engage in illegal work. Mr Tang returned to Hong Kong today (March 7), while the six residents, to be accompanied by members of the Security Bureau’s dedicated task force, will return to Hong Kong tonight.     The dedicated task force, comprising members from the Security Bureau, the Hong Kong Police Force and the Immigration Department, departed for Thailand earlier to participate in the rescue operation for the six Hong Kong residents who were detained in Myanmar. Upon arrival in Bangkok, the members of the dedicated task force proceeded to the Mae Sot area near the border between Thailand and Myanmar to participate in the joint rescue operation involving various parties. Mr Tang also departed for Thailand yesterday (March 6) to co-ordinate the rescue operation together with senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Justice, and the Police of Thailand.     The six Hong Kong residents, comprising three men and three women aged between 29 and 44, were detained in Myanmar for periods ranging from five to seven months. They were sent to Mae Sot, Thailand, at midnight by the military of Myanmar after being rescued. With the assistance of Thai authorities and personnel from the Chinese Embassy in the Kingdom of Thailand and the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chiang Mai, the dedicated task force escorted the six residents to depart from Mae Sot and arrived in Bangkok this afternoon.     Mr Tang expressed gratitude to all units involved in the joint operation, including the Ministry of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China, frontline personnel at the Thai-Myanmar border; the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, especially the Chinese Embassy in the Kingdom of Thailand and the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chiang Mai; the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Defence, the Police and the military of Thailand; as well as the relevant Myanmar authorities, the Security Bureau’s dedicated task force and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Bangkok.     Mr Tang had a video meeting with the six Hong Kong residents earlier and was pleased to learn that they were safe and in good condition. They expressed gratitude to those who helped in the rescue and looked forward to returning to Hong Kong to reunite with their families later today.     The dedicated task force will continue to actively follow up on the remaining three request-for-assistance cases of individuals who have yet to return to Hong Kong and will strive to facilitate their return as soon as possible.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 18:28

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cluster of Human Metapneumovirus in United Christian Hospital

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Cluster of Human Metapneumovirus in United Christian Hospital
    *************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:     The spokesperson for United Christian Hospital made the following announcement today (March 7):     Mild respiratory symptoms appeared in patients in a female psychiatric ward starting on February 25. Appropriate tests had been arranged for the patients, among which three patients (aged 61 to 70) tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus and met the case definition. Patients are being treated in isolation and are in stable condition.     A full investigation and thorough cleaning and disinfection have been conducted in the ward. Stringent droplet and contact precautions and enhancement of hand hygiene will be carried out.     The hospital will continue to closely monitor the conditions of the patients in the ward. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 18:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government gazettes Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government gazettes Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2025
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    The Government gazetted today (March 7) the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2025 for the implementation of an electronic driving licence (eDL).           The Bill aims to amend the Road Traffic Ordinance (Cap. 374) and related legislation to provide holders of a driving licence (including a driving instructors’ licence) an alternative to fulfil the relevant statutory requirements of carrying or producing a driving licence for examination or inspection by displaying their electronic licences on a specified electronic platform with smart phones. The eDL will not be a substitute for a physical driving licence, as driving licence holders will still be issued with a physical driving licence, but they may use an eDL at their preference.           A Government spokesperson said, “The implementation of an eDL can bring greater convenience to some 2.5 million driving licence holders, especially commercial vehicle drivers whose physical driving licences are more susceptible to damage due to frequent use. Those who choose to use an eDL can display it by logging on to a specified eDL mobile application on their smart phones via iAM Smart or the Transport Department (TD)’s e-Licensing Portal. To prevent a forgery of an eDL, the relevant application will be equipped with security features, including identity authentication and disabling the screen capture function, etc. Meanwhile, the TD will continue to issue a physical driving licence to meet the needs of different parties.           “The TD has long been striving for innovations in licence management through streamlining procedures and implementing e-initiatives. In recent years, the TD has also recorded a significant increase in the use of online services. For example, in 2024, the proportion of online applications for renewal of full driving licences and International Driving Permits reached 40 per cent. The TD will continue to implement various e-licensing initiatives, bringing greater convenience to the public,” the spokesperson supplemented.           The Bill will be introduced into the Legislative Council for first reading on March 19.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 19:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Drug abuse and drug situation in Hong Kong in 2024 (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Drug abuse and drug situation in Hong Kong in 2024 (with photos)
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    The Action Committee Against Narcotics (ACAN) noted at its meeting today (March 7) the figures of the Central Registry of Drug Abuse (CRDA) and other drug-related figures for 2024. ACAN noticed that the total number of reported drug abusers in 2024 was lower than that in 2023.           Figures from the CRDA revealed that the total number of reported drug abusers in 2024 decreased by 9 per cent (from 5 540 to 5 068) compared with that in 2023. The three most common types of drugs abused in 2024 were heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine (commonly known as “Ice”). Nevertheless, the number of reported young drug abusers aged under 21 in 2024 increased by 8 per cent (from 664 to 720), of which 226 vaped the “space oil drug”. In this group, the most common type of drugs abused was cannabis, followed by cocaine and the “space oil drug”. Since the first half of 2024, the “space oil drug” has continued to be the third most common type of drugs abused by this group.           To step up the control of the “space oil drug”, the Government has listed etomidate, the main ingredient of the “space oil drug”, and its three analogues, (metomidate, propoxate and isopropoxate) as dangerous drugs.           A spokesman for the Security Bureau (SB) said, “Etomidate, the main ingredient of the ‘space oil drug’, has been listed as a dangerous drug, which has significantly enhanced deterrence against ‘space oil drug’-related crimes. The move has also facilitated the law enforcement agencies to take more stringent enforcement actions against ‘space oil drug’-related crimes.”           Recently, Hong Kong Customs arrested a 20-year-old man who carried a vape stick containing the suspected “space oil drug”. In addition, the Police have arrested an 18-year-old man, a 16-year-old male and a 16-year-old female on suspicion of “outraging public decency”. Police later seized “space oil drug” electronic cigarette cartridges suspected to contain etomidate from the residences of two of the arrested persons. The Police arrested the three persons on suspicion of “possession of dangerous drugs” and other offences.           The Chairman of ACAN, Dr Donald Li, said, “I am glad to see that the Government has adopted the suggestions from ACAN and promptly listed the main ingredient of the ‘space oil drug’ as a dangerous drug. I suggest that the Government continues to step up anti-drug publicity on all fronts. I also hope that primary and secondary schools can take the initiative to continuously inculcate in their students the proper knowledge and values of resisting drugs.” He added, “The wickedness of the ‘space oil drug’ has been laid bare in recent controversial incidents. Teenagers who have mistaken vaping the ‘space oil drug’ as just a trivial matter should come to realise the drug harm of the ‘space oil drug’ from the cases in which young people have been arrested. I urge everyone to stay away from the ‘space oil drug’.”           The Government’s new TV Announcement in the Public Interest (API), “Don’t fall into ‘space oil drug’ traps!”, has been launched on various television and radio channels. In addition, relevant advertisements and publicity materials have been displayed on public transport networks, large outdoor advertising spaces, cinemas, public housing estates, private housing estates, Community Living Rooms and villages in the New Territories, etc. The advertisements will also be pushed to mobile phone users on popular mobile application websites. Information and videos about the ‘space oil drug’ have been uploaded onto the dedicated webpage of the Narcotics Division (ND) of the SB (www.nd.gov.hk/en/space_oil_drug.html) for reference by the public.           The Anti-“Space Oil Drug” Week has just been co-organised by the ND and the Education Bureau, which was held in all schools in Hong Kong. At the time, teachers and students participated together in a number of interactive activities, which included game booths and interactive drama shows, to enable students to understand the harm of the “space oil drug” and the severity of committing “space oil drug” crimes. Anti-drug education activities in schools will not stop after the Anti-“Space Oil Drug” Week. The Government will continue to spread anti-“space oil drug” messages through different activities in schools, with a view to cultivating proper values among students and building a stronger anti-drug barrier for them.           As regards drug treatment and rehabilitation services, the Government will continue to foster cross-sectoral collaboration, including the social welfare, healthcare and education sectors, to enhance the awareness and handling capability of social workers, healthcare professionals and teaching staff in relation to the “space oil drug” to facilitate early identification of and assistance to “space oil drug” abusers.           According to statistical figures from law enforcement agencies, the number of persons arrested for drug offences in 2024 dropped by 5 per cent (from 3 407 to 3 243) when compared with 2023. The number of young arrestees aged under 21 decreased by 7 per cent (from 323 to 301). Cannabis, cocaine and “Ice” were the main drugs involved in these arrests. According to court cases concluded for the same period, the conviction rate of persons being prosecuted for drug offences was as high as nearly 90 per cent. As for young offenders aged under 21 who were sentenced to imprisonment for drug trafficking, more than half of them were sentenced to over five years in prison, and the longest period of imprisonment was 22 years.           This year marks ACAN’s 60th anniversary. ACAN and the ND are taking the opportunity to co-organise a series of commemorative events, including an interactive roving exhibition in education institutions and the community, community engagement activities and competitions, with a view to consolidating anti-drug awareness in the community. In addition, the roving exhibition features a theme zone dedicated to the 60th anniversary of ACAN, where a number of precious historical posters, photos, anti-drug videos and TV APIs are displayed. The roving exhibition is divided into different theme zones with interactive games and digital exhibition panels etc. By incorporating the old and the new, visitors will be able to learn from the past and have a better understanding of the harm caused by drugs. The next stop of the roving exhibition will take place at City University of Hong Kong from March 11 to 14. For more details of the roving exhibition, please visit the dedicated webpage on the ND’s website (www.nd.gov.hk/en/ACAN60A_exhibition.html).           The statistical figures of the CRDA for 2024 are available on the ND website (www.nd.gov.hk/en/crda_main_charts_and_tables.html). The ND’s website (www.nd.gov.hk) as well as its official accounts (narcotics.divisionhk) on Facebook and Instagram also contain detailed information about drugs including the “space oil drug” for the public’s reference.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 19:09

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCS visits Environmental Protection Department (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SCS visits Environmental Protection Department (with photos)
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    The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mrs Ingrid Yeung, visited the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) this afternoon (March 7) to learn more about the department’s work in monitoring environmental quality and the application of innovative technologies in its work. She also exchanged views with staff representatives from various grades in the department.     Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Clement Leung, Mrs Yeung first met with the Director of Environmental Protection, Dr Samuel Chui, and the directorate staff to receive an update on the department’s latest developments in various areas of work.     In recent years, the EPD has introduced or developed innovative technological devices to meet its operational needs, one of which is the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Environmental Air Nuisance Investigation Robot Dog (AI Dog). Unlike traditional investigative methods that rely on the sense of smell and experience of the investigators, the AI Dog enhances its accuracy and efficiency through continuous AI machine learning. It effectively identifies and locates sources of pollution by connecting with the Internet of Things to search the big data of the Hong Kong Air Pollutant Emission Inventory, and is now on trial in various districts. The Ground Penetrating Radar enables the EPD to track the routes and leakage of underground sewage pipes without road openings.     The EPD staff gave Mrs Yeung a demonstration of the use of the AI Dog to identify and locate sources of pollution. They also demonstrated the operation of the Ground Penetrating Radar.     At the Smart Command and Control Centre, Mrs Yeung received a briefing from the EPD staff on the use of the Unmanned Submarine instead of divers to conduct monitoring and sampling in the Shing Mun River through remote control and real-time images. In addition, EPD staff also introduced the use of the Mesh Network Sampling Robot Squad for water-quality sampling and investigations in remote or dangerous areas in a more efficient manner.     Mrs Yeung said that the department’s AI Dog and AI Unmanned Submarine are similar to AI civil servants. They improve work efficiency and enable better follow-up proposals for pollution problems that were difficult to handle in the past. By resolving the problems in a shorter time, it gives the public a greater sense of fulfilment and serves as an example of making good use of technology.     Mrs Yeung said that the 2025-26 Budget reinforced the fiscal consolidation programme. Bureaux and departments are required to further review their resource allocation and work priorities, and provide public services in a more cost-effective manner through streamlining procedures. She encouraged the departments to step up their efforts to apply technology in their work to enhance efficiency and manpower utilisation in the civil service.     Before concluding her visit, Mrs Yeung met with staff representatives of various grades in the department to exchange views on matters that concerned them.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 19:10

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Six detainees in Myanmar rescued

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Security Bureau announced today that six Hong Kong residents lured to Myanmar to engage in illegal work have been rescued following a joint rescue operation.

     

    A dedicated task force, consisting of members from the bureau, the Police Force and the Immigration Department, had earlier travelled to the Mae Sot area of Thailand, near its border with Myanmar.

     

    Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung subsequently flew to Thailand yesterday to co-ordinate the operation alongside senior officials from Thailand’s Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Justice, and police.

     

    The six Hong Kong residents, comprising three men and three women all aged between 29 and 44, had been detained in Myanmar for periods ranging from five to seven months. After being rescued, they were sent to Mae Sot by Myanmar’s military. With the assistance of Thai authorities, the Chinese Embassy in the Kingdom of Thailand, and the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chiang Mai, the task force escorted the six from Mae Sot to Bangkok, which they reached this afternoon.

     

    Mr Tang had earlier held a video meeting with the citizens and was pleased to learn that they were safe and in good condition. They expressed gratitude to those who had helped in their rescue and said they looked forward to reuniting with their families in Hong Kong.

     

    Mr Tang thanked all units involved in the joint operation, including the Ministry of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China; frontline personnel at the Thai-Myanmar border; the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, especially the Chinese Embassy in the Kingdom of Thailand and the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chiang Mai; Thailand’s Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Defence, police and military; relevant authorities in Myanmar; the task force; and the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office in Bangkok.

     

    Regarding three individuals who have yet to return to Hong Kong, the bureau stressed that it will actively follow up on their cases and strive to facilitate their return as soon as possible.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN engages Cambodia-based media in Phnom Penh

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today held a Roundtable Discussion with a group of Cambodia-based media from the Club of Cambodian Journalists, on the sidelines of the Cambodia-ASEAN Business Summit 2025, in Phnom Penh. The discussion revolved around the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 from the perspective of the Secretary-General of ASEAN. During the discussion, SG Dr. Kao underscored 2025 as a significant year for ASEAN, as ASEAN leaders will adopt the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its four Strategic Plans for each ASEAN Community Pillar and ASEAN Connectivity, scheduled for adoption during the 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia this year. He also highlighted the need to effectively address cross-cutting issues, enhance institutional capacity and effectiveness, as well as ensure adequate resources for ASEAN. 

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN engages Cambodia-based media in Phnom Penh appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The G20: how it works, why it matters and what would be lost if it failed

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Danny Bradlow, Professor/Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria

    South Africa took over the presidency of the G20 at the end of 2024. Since then the world has become a more complex, unpredictable and dangerous place. The most powerful state in the world, the US, seems intent on undermining the existing order that it created and on demonstrating its power over weaker nations. Other influential countries are turning inward.

    These developments raise concerns about how well mechanisms for global cooperation, such as the G20, can continue to operate, particularly those that work on the basis of consensual decision making. Danny Bradlow sets out how the G20 works, and what’s at stake.

    What’s the G20’s purpose?

    The G20 is a forum in which the largest economies in the world meet regularly to discuss, and attempt to address, the most urgent international economic and political challenges. The group, which includes both rich and developing countries, accounts for about 67% of the world’s population, 85% of global GDP, and 75% of global trade.

    The G20, in fact, is a misnomer. The actual number of G20 participants in any given year far exceeds the 19 states and 2 international entities (the European Union and the African Union) that are its permanent members. Each year they are joined by a number of invited “guests”. While there are some countries, for example Spain and the Netherlands, that are considered “permanent” G20 guests, the full list of guests is determined by the chair of the G20 for that year. This year, South Africa has invited 13 countries, including Denmark, Egypt, Finland, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates. They are joined by 24 invited international organisations such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the United Nations and eight African regional organisations, among others.

    The G20 should be understood as a process rather than a set of discrete events. Its apex is the annual leaders’ summit at which the participating heads of state and government seek to agree on a communiqué setting out their agreements on key issues. These agreements are non-binding and each of the participating states usually will implement most but not all the agreed points.

    The communiqué is the outcome of a two track process: a finance track, consisting of representatives of the finance ministries and central banks in the participating counties, and a “sherpa” track that deals with more political issues. In total these two tracks will involve over 100 meetings of technical level officials and policymakers.

    Most of the work in each track is done by working groups. The finance track has seven working groups dealing with issues ranging from the global economy and international financial governance to financial inclusion and the financing of infrastructure. The sherpa track has 15 working groups dealing with issues ranging from development and agriculture to health, the digital economy, and education.

    The agenda for the working group meetings is based on issues notes prepared by the G20 presidency. The issues notes will discuss both unfinished business from prior years and any new issues that the president adds to the G20 agenda.

    The working group chairs report on the outcomes of these meetings to the ministerial meetings in their track. These reports will first be discussed in meetings of the deputies to the ministers. The deputies will seek to narrow areas of disagreement and sharpen the issues for discussion so that when they are presented at the ministerial meeting the chances of reaching agreement are maximised.

    The agreements reached at each of these ministerial meetings, assuming all participants agree, will be expressed in a carefully negotiated and drafted communiqué. If the participants cannot agree, the minister chairing the meeting will provide a chair’s summary of the meeting. These documents will then inform the communiqué that will be released at the end of the G20 summit. This final communiqué represents the formal joint decision of the participating heads of state and government.

    The G20 process is supplemented by the work of 13 engagement groups representing, for example, business, labour, youth, think tanks, women and civil society in the G20 countries. These groups look for ways to influence the outcomes of the G20 process.

    What is the G20 troika and how does it operate?

    The G20 does not have a permanent secretariat. Instead, the G20 president is responsible for organising and chairing the more than 100 meetings that take place during the year. The G20 has decided that this burden should be supported by a “troika”, consisting of the past, present and future presidents of the G20. This year the troika consists of Brazil, the past chair; South Africa, the current chair; and the US, the future chair.

    The role of the troika varies depending on the identity of the current chair and how assertive it wishes to be in driving the G20 process. It will also be influenced by how active the other two members of the troika wish to be.

    The troika helps ensure some continuity from one G20 year to another. This is important because there is a significant carryover of issues on the G20 agenda from one year to the next. The troika therefore creates the potential for the G20 president to focus on the issues of most interest to it over a three year period rather than just for one year.

    How successful has the G20 process been?

    The G20 is essentially a self-appointed group which has designated itself as the “premier forum for international economic cooperation”.

    The G20 was first brought together during the Asian financial crisis in the 1990s. At that time, it was limited to a forum in which ministers of finance and central bank governors could meet to discuss the most important international economic and financial issues, such as the Asian financial crisis.

    The G20 was elevated to the level of heads of state and government at the time of the 2008 global financial crisis.

    The G20 tends to work well as a cooperative forum when the world is confronting an economic crisis. Thus, the G20 was a critical forum in which countries could discuss and agree on coordinating actions to deal with the global financial crisis in 2008-9.

    It has performed less well when confronted with other types of crises. For example, it was found wanting in dealing with the COVID pandemic.

    It has also proven to be less effective, although not necessarily totally ineffective, when there is no crisis. So, for example, the G20 has been useful in helping address relatively technical issues such as developing international standards on particular financial regulatory issues or improving the functioning of multilateral development banks. On other more political issues, for example climate, food security, and funding the UN’s sustainable development goals, it has been less effective.

    There’s one less obvious, but nevertheless important, benefit. The G20 offers officials from participating countries the chance to interact with their counterparts from other G20 countries. As a result, they come to know and understand each other better, which helps foster cooperation between states on issues of common interest. It also ensures that when appropriate, these officials know whom to contact in other countries and this may help mitigate the risk of misunderstanding and conflict.

    These crisis management and other benefits would be lost if the G20 were to stop functioning. And there is currently no alternative to the G20 in the sense of a forum where the leading states in the world, which may differ on many important issues, can meet on a relatively informal basis to discuss issues of mutual interest. Importantly, the withdrawal of one G20 state, even the most powerful, should not prevent the remaining participants from using the G20 to promote international cooperation on key global challenges.

    In this way it can help manage the risk of conflict in a complex global environment.

    Danny Bradlow, in addition to his position at the University of Pretoria, is working as a G20 senior advisor to the South African Institute of International Affairs and is co-chair of the T20 Taskforce on Financing of Sustainable Development.

    – ref. The G20: how it works, why it matters and what would be lost if it failed – https://theconversation.com/the-g20-how-it-works-why-it-matters-and-what-would-be-lost-if-it-failed-251500

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) leads nationwide awareness campaign on Safer Internet Day to promote safe and responsible use of the internet

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) leads nationwide awareness campaign on Safer Internet Day to promote safe and responsible use of the internet

    As part of this extensive campaign, 1,521 workshops were held across 35 States/UTs, 599 districts and 134 gram panchayats, reaching over 3.08 lakh people

    Navigating the Digital Highway: Online safety workshop engages 1,217 government officials

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:30PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) spearheaded a nationwide awareness campaign on Safer Internet Day, observed on February 11, 2025, to promote safe and responsible use of the internet. Organized under the theme ‘Together for a Better Internet’, the campaign aimed to educate and sensitize internet users about cyber hygiene, online safety practices, and emerging cyber threats. This initiative was conducted under the Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) program in collaboration with NIC, NIXI, C-DAC, NIELIT, MyGov, NeGD, and various partner institutions. The National Informatics Centre (NIC) played a crucial role in amplifying the outreach efforts through its extensive digital infrastructure and communication networks.

    Cyber awareness drive

    As part of this extensive campaign, 1,521 awareness workshops were conducted across 35 States/UTs, 599 districts, 493 blocks/tehsils, and 134 gram panchayats, reaching over 3.08 lakh beneficiaries. These workshops covered key topics such as cyber threat mitigation, digital security best practices, and responsible online behavior. Additionally, a series of expert talks, quizzes, and competitions were organized to further reinforce awareness.

    Strengthening digital resilience

    To maximize outreach, promotional messages and expert interviews were broadcasted on a Pan India basis in 11 major Indian languages, covering vital topics such as cyber hygiene practices, common cyber threats, and the mechanism for reporting cybercrimes through the toll-free National Cybercrime Helpline Number (1930). These messages were disseminated through FM stations, Prasar Bharati, and Vividh Bharati networks, achieving an estimated reach of 2.27 crore listeners. On digital platforms, social media outreach led by MyGov, NIC, and ISEA teams garnered over 5.49 lakh impressions and 63.57 lakh views through 680 creative posts.

    An online awareness workshop, titled ‘Navigating the Digital Highway: Safeguarding Your Online Journey’, was also organized for the officials of MeitY and other government ministries, departments, and organizations, engaging 1,217 participants in discussions on digital safety. The session sensitized participants on best cybersecurity practices and also provided demonstrations of insightful security tools, such as PIC2MAP, deviceinfo.me, coveryourtracks.eff.org, stopNCII.org, SecureEraser app, etc. which help in verifying online content authenticity, preventing identity fraud, analyzing device fingerprints, and securing personal data. The workshop was highly appreciated by participants for its practical approach and relevance in addressing contemporary cybersecurity challenges.

    About ISEA

    The Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) Project, implemented by MeitY, aims to strengthen cybersecurity awareness and build skilled human resources in Information Security. The recently approved ISEA Phase-III (October 2023) seeks to develop 2.25 lakh trained individuals in cybersecurity over five years, including 45,000 skilled and certified cybersecurity professionals (CISOs, Deputy CISOs, and aspirants) and 2.3 lakh students and researchers in formal and non-formal courses. Additionally, the project aims to cover over 12 crore beneficiaries from diverse backgrounds—school children, teachers, college students, faculty, women, senior citizens, government employees, MSMEs, and NGOs—through mass awareness initiatives under the Cyber Aware Digital Naagrik campaign.

    For more information and access to cybersecurity awareness resources, visit https://isea.gov.in/ and https://staysafeonline.in/.

     

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    Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith

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