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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Europe: France: BNP Paribas signs an agreement with the EIB to generate up to €8 billion in wind energy investments

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • Co-signed initiative to spur funding for wind energy sector in the European Union, supporting transition to net zero and boosting innovation of Europe’s renewable energy manufacturers
    • Up to €8 billion of new wind energy investments in real economy thanks to leverage effect of EIB counter-guarantee and BNP Paribas’ portfolio of bank guarantees
    • This deal between EIB and BNP Paribas is part of the EIB’s contribution to the European Wind Power Package. The operation is backed by InvestEU, the EU programme aiming to mobilise investment of more than €372 billion by 2027.

    BNP Paribas has signed an agreement with the European Investment Bank (EIB) that will stimulate up to €8 billion of funding for wind energy projects across the European Union. This initiative will unlock key investments to support new wind farm projects, supply chain efficiency and improved grid interconnections, therefore accelerating wind energy development and ultimately increasing production.

    Under the agreement, the EIB has extended a €500 million counter-guarantee, enabling BNP Paribas, to establish a €1 billion portfolio of bank guarantees designed to back new investments in wind farms in the EU. The leverage effect of such a counter-guarantee is expected to spur up to €8 billion of investments in the real economy.

    The agreement falls under a €5 billion initiative announced by the EIB in support of the European Wind Power Package presented by the European Commission in October 2023. The initiative aims at accelerating wind energy deployment and strengthening the competitiveness of Europe’s wind industry. The programme aims to support the production of 32 GW of the 117 GW of wind capacity needed to enable the European Union to meet its goal of generating at least 45% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.This transaction is part of BNP Paribas’ long-standing commitment to supporting the energy transition by directing its financing towards low-carbon energy, which will account for at least 90% of the bank’s energy production financing by 2030.

    Supporting renewable energy is key to European energy independence, says EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle. “Guarantees, like the ones EIB provides through this new financial instrument, contribute to enable the funding of essential projects that drive the green transition, support the decarbonization of the European economy, and strengthen industrial competitiveness.

    “BNP Paribas is pleased to reinforce our historic relationship with the European Investment Bank, this time to support the continent’s growing wind energy sector,” says Alain Papiasse, Chairman of Corporate and Institutional Banking at BNP Paribas “This partnership reflects our mutual commitment to advancing sustainable energy projects that strengthen the continent’s economy while reducing its carbon footprint. By uniting our expertise and resources with the EIB’s pivotal support, we hope to help drive lasting, positive projects for communities, businesses and the environment.

    Yannick Jung, Head of Global Banking at BNP Paribas stated “We see the EIB’s invaluable support in this partnership as a way of accelerating our ongoing strategy to facilitate the transition to a Low Carbon Economic Model. By supporting European Corporates along the Wind Value Chain, we believe our collective efforts will inspire innovation, foster sustainability and pave the way for a more robust Europe”.

    Background information

    About the EIB

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the EU, and the Capital Markets Union.   

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 projects in 2024. These commitments are expected to mobilise around €350 billion in investment, supporting 400 000 companies and 5.8 million jobs.   

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Accord and the EIB Group does not fund investments in fossil fuels. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.   

    In 2024, France was the largest recipient of EIB Group financing, with total investment of €12.6 billion. Two-thirds of this financing went to projects contributing to the fight against global warming and adaptation to its effects.

    About BNP Paribas

    BNP Paribas is the European Union’s leading bank and key player in international banking. It operates in 63 countries and has nearly 183,000 employees, including more than 145,000 in Europe. The Group has key positions in its three main fields of activity: Commercial, Personal Banking & Services for the Group’s commercial & personal banking and several specialised businesses including BNP Paribas Personal Finance and Arval; Investment & Protection Services for savings, investment and protection solutions; and Corporate & Institutional Banking, focused on corporate and institutional clients. Based on its strong diversified and integrated model, the Group helps all its clients (individuals, community associations, entrepreneurs, SMEs, corporates and institutional clients) to realise their projects through solutions spanning financing, investment, savings and protection insurance. In Europe, BNP Paribas has four domestic markets: Belgium, France, Italy and Luxembourg. The Group is rolling out its integrated commercial & personal banking model across several Mediterranean countries, Turkey, and Eastern Europe. As a key player in international banking, the Group has leading platforms and business lines in Europe, a strong presence in the Americas as well as a solid and fast-growing business in Asia-Pacific. BNP Paribas has implemented a Corporate Social Responsibility approach in all its activities, enabling it to contribute to the construction of a sustainable future, while ensuring the Group’s performance and stability.

    About InvestEU and the wind power package

    The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps mobilise private investment for the European Union’s strategic priorities such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. InvestEU brings all EU financial instruments previously available for supporting investments within the European Union together under one roof, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub, and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is deployed through implementing partners that will invest in projects using the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increase their risk-bearing capacity and thus mobilise at least €372 billion in additional investment.

    The European Commission presented the European Wind Power Package in October 2023 to tackle the unique set of challenges faced by the wind sector, including insufficient and uncertain demand, slow and complex permitting, lack of access to raw materials and high inflation and commodity prices, among others. In a specific Action Plan, the Commission set out a set of initiatives concerning permitting, auction design, skills and access to finance to ensure that the clean energy transition goes hand-in-hand with industrial competitiveness and that wind power continues to be a European success story. As part of this plan, in July 2024, the European Investment Bank (EIB) activated a €5 billion initiative to support manufacturers of wind-energy equipment in Europe.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: As Tentative Reduction in Hostilities Opens Door for More De-Escalation, Sustainable Resolution to Yemen Conflict ‘Still Possible’, Special Envoy Tells Security Council

    Source: United Nations 4

    Yemen is standing at another critical juncture, and the choices made today will determine its future, the Organization’s senior official told the Security Council today, underscoring the collective responsibility to create the space for a mediated solution.

    “A sustainable resolution to this conflict is still possible,” said Hans Grundberg, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, highlighting a significant, albeit fragile, development in the Middle East with the ceasefire in Gaza.  The tentative reduction in hostilities — a cessation of attacks by Ansar Allah on vessels in the Red Sea and targets in Israel — along with the release of the crew of the MV Galaxy Leader, offer a foundation for further de-escalation.

    “Yet, while we welcome this reprieve, we must also acknowledge the magnitude of challenges still facing Yemen,” he stressed, citing the fourth wave of arbitrary detentions of United Nations staff, conducted by Ansar Allah last month, as “a deeply troubling development”. He called for their immediate and unconditional release and an investigation of the death — while detained by Ansar Allah — of a UN colleague working for the World Food Programme (WFP).

    He further voiced concern over a continuation of military activity in Yemen, with reports of the movement of reinforcements and equipment towards the front lines, and shelling, drone attacks and infiltration attempts by Ansar Allah on multiple front lines, including Abyan, Al Dhale’, Lahj, Ma’rib, Sa’dah, Shabwa and Ta’iz.  He called on the parties to refrain from military posturing and retaliatory measures that could lead to further tension and risk plunging Yemen back into conflict.  His Office urges parties to de-escalate tensions and take concrete confidence-building measures through the Military Coordination Committee, he said.

    On Yemen’s rapidly deteriorating economic situation, he pointed to prolonged blackouts in Government-controlled areas. Moreover, the continued depreciation of the Yemeni riyal has sent the cost of essential goods soaring, “making simply surviving a challenge for millions”.  For many families, food, medicine and fuel have become unaffordable. In Ansar Allah-controlled territories, ordinary Yemenis also struggle to afford basic commodities.  “These hardships are symptoms of the failure to achieve a sustainable political resolution,” he observed, adding that “without the prospect of peace, there can be no prosperity”.

    He detailed his engagement with the parties to the conflict to advance sustainable, achievable and practical solutions that will benefit the Yemeni population, as well as with civil society representatives — including youth and women — to incorporate local-level perspectives into the peace process.  “Only a political settlement of the conflict will support the Yemenis in their aspirations for lasting peace,” he stated.

    19.5 Million People in Yemen Need Humanitarian Support

    Painting a grim picture of the humanitarian situation in Yemen, with 19.5 million people in need of support, Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, said that 64 per cent of the population are unable to meet their food needs, while 3.2 million children are out of school.  Half of all children under the age of five are acutely malnourished, dying at a horrific rate mainly from preventable conditions. While humanitarian operations continue despite significant risks, he stressed that humanitarian partners cannot operate without guarantees of their safety.

    “Globally, humanitarians are overstretched, underfunded and under attack,” he said, noting that operations have been temporarily paused in Sa’ada Governorate due to safety risks.  Urging the Council to get UN and civil society staff released, he also called for more funding “to deliver for those we serve”, stressing that political and security decisions should not punish affected communities by limiting the flow of essential commodities into Yemen.  “This is a tough place for us to deliver humanitarian support, and a tough place for you to get the political judgements right,” he added.

    Council Members Echo Call for Investigation into Death of World Food Programme (WFP) Staff Member, Stress Aid Workers Must Never Be Targeted

    In the ensuing discussion, Council members echoed Mr. Grundberg’s call for a swift, transparent and thorough investigation into the death of a WFP staff member in Houthi detention earlier this week and the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained.

    “These detentions are directly shrinking the humanitarian operating environment at a time when we continue to see an alarming deterioration in the humanitarian situation,” said the United Kingdom’s delegate.

    “Humanitarians must never be a target,” concurred Slovenia’s representative, adding that attacks on them are attacks on the most vulnerable Yemenis.  Referencing the recently published 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan for Yemen, he stated:  “The spectre of famine is never far from the Yemeni people.”

    Concerns Raised over Food Insecurity

    Yemen is experiencing extreme levels of food insecurity and malnutrition, cholera and marginalization of the most vulnerable groups, especially women and children, observed his counterpart from Greece.  He cautioned that further deterioration would have “disastrous effects” on that country’s population.

    Amid soaring food insecurity in Yemen, “we have a responsibility to act”, said Denmark’s delegate, noting Copenhagen’s contribution of $13.5 million to the life-saving efforts of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), WFP and the Yemen Humanitarian Fund.

    Panama, said that country’s representative, has also contributed to the Yemen Humanitarian Fund.  Further, he underscored the key role of the meetings held by the Humanitarian Affairs Office in the country’s economic recovery and stability.

    However, Pakistan’s delegate emphasized that “this crisis necessitates a well-coordinated and robust international response”, urging States to enhance their contributions to Yemen’s 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan.

    Focus on Precarious Security Situation and Houthi Threats

    Many speakers focused on the precarious security situation in Yemen and the Houthi threats to international peace and security.

    “As the Middle East stands at a perilous crossroad, Yemen remains mired in a fragile balance between conflict and stability,” observed the speaker for the Republic of Korea, adding that the navigational choices of the coming months will determine “whether the country moves towards lasting peace and stability or slides back into deepening crisis”.

    Echoing the ambiguity of the recent developments in Yemen, the representative of Somalia — also speaking for Algeria, Guyana and Sierra Leone — said they highlight “both progress and challenges”.  While he recognized efforts to improve humanitarian corridors in the Houthi-controlled areas, he emphasized the need for unhindered access across all regions.  Expressing support for diplomatic actions to safeguard the Red Sea as a zone of peace and cooperation, he said a stable and peaceful Yemen is critical for broader regional security.

    France’s delegate attributed the primary responsibility for the regional crisis to the Houthis, whose actions further worsen the humanitarian situation in Yemen.  Stressing that the international community needs to relaunch the political process, he said that the unity of the Presidential Leadership Council is essential and called for inclusive negotiations, with the participation of civil society and women.

    The United States’ representative stressed that Iran’s continued and unprecedented provision of weapons components, financial support and training and technical assistance to the Houthis for over a decade violates the arms embargo this Council imposed on the group.  Accordingly, she called on Council members to press Iran’s leaders to stop arming, funding and training the Houthis, “without which they would not be able to launch attacks that disrupt navigational rights and freedoms and put innocent civilians in harm’s way”.  Noting Washington, D.C.’s, initiation of a process to consider designating the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization, she also called for targeted sanctions against that group.

    The Russian Federation’s delegate, meanwhile, warned that the process to include the Houthis on the United States’ list of terrorist organizations can impede humanitarian work and negatively impact the negotiations process.  Expressing hope that this initiative is undertaken by the new administration “in a rush”, he added:  “Otherwise, the blame for undermining efforts to establish a long-hoped-for peace in Yemen will be laid at Washington’s door.”

    Political Resolution is Key, with Regional Countries Facilitating Dialogue

    “No matter how the situation evolves, the Yemeni issue should be resolved politically,” emphasized the representative of China, Council President for February, speaking in his national capacity.  While noting that UN support would help break the political deadlock and relaunch the political process, he urged regional countries to facilitate dialogue.

    Yemen’s Speaker Says Iranian-Backed Houthi War to Blame for Economic Crisis, Urging States to Dry Up Houthi Financing 

    The representative of Yemen underscored that the Yemeni people are suffering from the repercussions of a “tremendous” economic crisis, caused by the Tehran-supported Houthi war.  The Presidential Leadership Council is open to all efforts to address the crisis, he said, adding the Government also called for the transfer of international agencies’ headquarters to the temporary capital Aden.  Stressing that “peace remains the obvious strategic option,” he reiterated the Government’s commitment to the 22 April 2022 truce.

    While “the window for peace cannot be shut when there is a genuine partner”, he said that the Government cannot accept an armed group fighting with the State, claiming its “divine” right to rule the country. Efforts to end the conflict cannot succeed until the Houthis stop their extortion, he observed, urging States to “dry up the group’s financing”.  Noting that the Government is trying to restore State institutions and implement reforms to curb the repercussions of terrorist attacks on oil facilities, he welcomed Washington, D.C.’s. decision to list the Houthis as a foreign terrorist group.  “Despite all challenges and difficulties, hope remains in the ability of the Yemeni people to overcome this crisis”, he concluded.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Head of US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) calls on Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 11:51PM by PIB Delhi

    Mr. Elon Musk, Head of the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and CEO of Tesla called on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today.

    Prime Minister and Mr. Musk discussed strengthening collaboration between Indian and US entities in innovation, space exploration, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development. Their discussion also touched on opportunities to deepen cooperation in emerging technologies, entrepreneurship and good governance.

    Mr. Musk was accompanied by family members for the meeting.

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2103014) Visitor Counter : 89

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz calls on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 11:39PM by PIB Delhi

    The U.S. National Security Advisor, Mr. Michael Waltz, called on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today.

    The discussions touched upon ways to further deepen the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, with a focus on strategic technologies, as well as defense industrial cooperation and civil nuclear energy with an emphasis on small modular reactors, and counterterrorism.

    They also discussed international, and regional issues of mutual interest.

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2103013) Visitor Counter : 64

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Virender Kumar to review the functioning of the CRC Jammu tomorrow

    Source: Government of India (2)

     Union Minister Dr. Virender Kumar to review the functioning of the CRC Jammu tomorrow

    To inaugurate Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy equipment amounting to around Rs. 2.67 lakh at the Centre

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 9:04PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virender Kumar, would be reviewing the functioning of the Composite Regional Centre (CRC) Jammu on 14th of February 2025. During this visit, the Minister would assess the facilities being provided to the beneficiaries, ensuring that the objectives of social justice and empowerment are being met effectively.

    The Minister would then inaugurate the Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy equipment amounting to around Rs. 2.67 lakh at the Centre – Treadmill, Traction Bed, Static Cycle, Hydrocollator Machine, Cold Therapy Machine, T-Pulleys, Parallel Bar, Dumbbells, Ankle Exerciser, Weighing Machine and BP Machine.

    Dr. Kumar would also be distributing aids and appliances – Hearing aid, LS Belt, Knee Brace, Walking Stick, Wheel Chair, Smart Phone, Motorized Tricycle – to the beneficiaries, providing much-needed support to those in need. Till date CRC Jammu has provided its services to approximately 10,000 beneficiaries.

    This visit underscores the government’s continued dedication to the welfare of persons with disabilities and other marginalized sections of society. The programme at CRC Jammu marks an important milestone in promoting inclusivity and social empowerment in the region. The Minister would be accompanied by distinguished dignitaries, including Shri Rajeev Sharma, Joint Secretary, M/o SJ&E and Dr. Jitendra Sharma, Director, PDUNIPPD, New Delhi.

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    VM

    (Release ID: 2102997) Visitor Counter : 13

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Honb’le Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia releases Commemorative Postage Stamps on the Historic Mahakumbh 2025 at Prayagraj

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 8:42PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Posts is proud to release a commemorative souvenir sheet with three Stamps on the Maha Kumbh 2025. The stamps were unveiled by Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, the Hon’ble Union Minister for Communications and Development of the North Eastern Region, at Arail Ghat Post Office, Prayagraj.

    Release of Commemorative Postage Stamps on “Maha Kumbh 2025’ by Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Hon’ble Union Minister for Communications and Development of the North Eastern Region

    Honouring the rich traditions of the Maha Kumbh 2025, other philatelic items, including special covers and cancellations on sacred Snan days, ‘Divya, Bhavya and Digital Mahakumbh’ and a picture postcard celebrating ‘Prakhyat Prayagraj’ were also released. These philatelic releases highlight the historical, cultural and spiritual significance of the Maha Kumbh.

    The origins of the Kumbh Mela are rooted in Hindu mythology. According to the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) story in the ancient Hindu scriptures, the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) fought over the Amrit (nectar of immortality). During this celestial battle, drops of the nectar fell at four locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik—where the Kumbh Mela is now held, with the Maha Kumbh occurring once every 144 years at Prayagraj. It holds immense religious, cultural, and historical importance.

    The three stamps released in the souvenir sheet are inspired from the verse:

     

    त्रिवेणीं माधवं सोमं भरद्वाजं च वासुकिम्।

    वन्दे अक्षयवटं शेष प्रयागं तीर्थनायकम।

    The commemorative postage stamps, designed by Shri Sankha Samanta, beautifully depict three prominent aspects of Triveni tirtha- Maharshi Bharadwaj Ashram, Snan and Akshayvat.

    Maha Kumbh 2025 commemorative stamps

    The Maharshi Bharadwaj Ashram was a renowned educational centre during Rishi Bharadwaj’s Time. It is mentioned in Ramayana as well, when Shri Ram, Mata Sita and Laxman visited the Ashram during their Vanvas period. In the second stamp Snan, the significance of taking the holy dip in the Triveni Sangam is showcased. Millions of pilgrims take a dip in the Triveni, believing their sins will be washed away and they will attain Moksha. The third stamp, Akshayvat, is the immortal Banyan tree under which Shri Ram, Mata Sita, and Laxman are believed to have rested during their Vanvas. According to ancient scriptures, the Akshyvat remains steadfast even during pralay (cosmic dissolution).

    Get yourself a limited edition collectable Souvenir of stamps, First Day Covers, and Brochures commemorating this historic event!

     Now available on https://www.epostoffice.gov.in/

    Secure the collectible and celebrate the glory of Maha Kumbh 2025.

    ****

    Samrat/Dheeraj/Allen : pibcomm[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2102962) Visitor Counter : 57

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hon’ble Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh Inaugurates Indie Haat- A celebration of India’s rich handloom and handicraft heritage

    Source: Government of India

    Hon’ble Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh Inaugurates Indie Haat- A celebration of India’s rich handloom and handicraft heritage

    The Indie Haat event runs from February 12 to 18, 2025, is inter weaved with Bharat Tex 2025, India’s largest global textile event

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 8:38PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Giriraj Singh, Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, inaugurated Indie Haat at the National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy, New Delhi. Speaking at the event, Shri Giriraj Singh, Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, remarked that Indie Haat is not just an exhibition, but a celebration of India’s rich textile and handicraft heritage. Through this platform, we are not only preserving traditional crafts but also providing artisans and weavers with direct access to global markets, HMoT added.

    The Indie Haat event, which runs from February 12 to 18, 2025, is designed to showcase India’s traditional artistry to an international audience. The participating handicraft artisans at Indie Haat represent a diverse range of craft traditions from various regions of India. Indie Haat features a vibrant display of 80 different types of handcrafted and handwoven products, crafted by 85 artisans and weavers from across the country.Their crafts include Gulabi Minakari, Tarkasi craft, Mithila painting, black pottery, Chamba Rumal, Punjabi Jutti, Kalamkari painting, Bidri craft, Bastar Dhokra, Gujarat Suf embroidery, Kutch Ajrakh hand block printing, Aranmula metal mirror, and many more.The textiles they showcase include Paithani sarees, Tussar silk sarees, Jamdani sarees, Pashmina shawls, Muga silk sarees, Uppada Jamdani, Maheshwari sarees, and handloom yoga mats, highlighting the rich weaving heritage of India.

    The event is inter weaved with Bharat Tex 2025, which will be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi from Feb 14 to 17 2025. In addition to the artisans exhibiting at the National Crafts Museum, 30 artisans will be giving live craft demonstrations at Bharat Mandapam within the fold of Bharat Tex 2025, further amplifying their visibility among international buyers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. To maximize engagement, Indie Haat’s e-invite has been included in the official buyer kit, and extensive promotional activities are being conducted throughout Bharat Mandapam to attract global participation.Bharat Tex 2025 will cover a 2.2 million square feet exhibition space, with over 5,000+ exhibitors. The event at Bharat Mandapam is expected to attract 6,000+ international buyers from 110+ countries and over 120,000+ visitors, including policymakers, global CEOs, and industry leaders.

    This special initiative organised by the Office of the Development Commissioners (Handicrafts & Handlooms), celebrates India’s rich handloom and handicraft heritage by providing artisans and weavers with a global platform to showcase their craft. It has been thoughtfully curated in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), ensuring that India’s finest craftsmanship is presented in a contemporary and engaging manner.

    Visitors to Indie Haat can experience live demonstrations of traditional craft techniques, providing them with an opportunity to witness India’s centuries-old craftsmanship firsthand. The event also enables direct engagement between artisans and buyers, facilitating market linkages and economic empowerment for these skilled craftspersons.

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    Dhanya Sanal K

    Director

    (Release ID: 2102958) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel releases Report on “Status of Devolution to Panchayats in States” in New Delhi today

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel releases Report on “Status of Devolution to Panchayats in States” in New Delhi today

    Devolution to Rural Local Bodies Increased from 39.9% to 43.9% between 2013-14 to 2021-22.

    Funds devolved to Rural Local Bodies should be monitored to prevent corruption: Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel

    Uttar Pradesh deserves Special Mention for remarkably improving its Accountability Framework: Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel

    Karnataka Tops Devolution Ranking; Kerala and Tamil Nadu Bag Second & Third Spot respectively; Uttar Pradesh Jumps 10 Spots to reach Fifth Position

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 8:36PM by PIB Delhi

    The Report titled “Status of Devolution to Panchayats in States – An Indicative Evidence Based Ranking” was unveiled by Union Minister of State, Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, today in New Delhi. The event was attended by Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Shri Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Shri Rajeev Singh Thakur, Advisor, NITI Aayog, Shri Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj and other senior officers of the Ministry and faculty members of Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), New Delhi.

    Addressing the participants at IIPA, Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, in his address, stated that the Panchayat Devolution Index is crucial for the holistic, inclusive and sustainable development of India. It not only motivates states that have performed well but also encourages State Governments to create an environment that empowers Rural Local Bodies. Highlighting the remarkable progress of Uttar Pradesh, which has jumped from the 15th rank in the previous index to the 5th position now; he emphasized that if Uttar Pradesh grows, the nation progresses. He said “I am particularly proud to announce that the success story of Uttar Pradesh deserves special mention – its leap from 15th to 5th position is truly remarkable. The State of Uttar Pradesh has revolutionized its accountability framework through innovative transparency initiatives and robust anti-corruption measures.” Prof. Baghel urged all States to actively implement central government schemes for the welfare of society. He noted that Panchayats have always played a vital role in resolving conflicts at the local level. He further stated that Panchayat Bhawans should serve as centers for rural growth, as they have the potential to significantly increase the number of beneficiaries under central government schemes such as the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and other social sector schemes. Union Minister of State Prof. Baghel suggested that these Panchayat Bhawans could function as hubs for providing essential services like pensions, birth and death certificates, and other basic facilities in the villages.Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel also stressed upon the importance of monitoring the utilization of funds devolved to rural local bodies to prevent any financial irregularities or corruption.

    Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, addressing the gathering, called upon all States to take decisive steps toward empowering Panchayats. He stated that  “This is not just about devolution of powers; it is about enabling our Panchayats to become vibrant centers of local governance in rural areas that can effectively contribute to India’s holistic, inclusive, and sustainable development.” Secretary, MoPR emphasized upon the remarkable progress in the Panchayati Raj arena over the last ten years, including digital transformation, Panchayat infrastructure (office buildings, computers, internet connectivity etc.), accounting and audits, and the conduct of regular panchayat elections.

    This report marks a milestone in India’s journey toward empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) realizing the vision of ‘Local Government’ enshrined in the 73rd Constitutional Amendment and advancing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat through Gram Swaraj – echoing Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of self-reliant village republics. The report provides an in-depth analysis at how well Panchayats are equipped to fulfill their Constitutional roles in each State and highlights the work still needed to be done to fully function as institutions of local self-government. Alongside indices that measure the overall performance of States in devolving powers and resources to Panchayats, sub-indices have been created for various dimensions and indicators. These sub-indices allow each State to see its relative ranking in different aspects of devolution.

    States/UTs were ranked according to the overall Panchayat devolution index as well as by each of the following six dimensions:

    (i) Framework

    (ii) Functions

    (iii) Finances

    (iv) Functionaries

    (v) Capacity Enhancement

    (vi) Accountability

    Highlights of the report:

    1. The latest report, prepared by IIPA, reveals that devolution has increased from 39.9% to 43.9% between the period 2013-14 to 2021-22.
    2. With the launch of the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) on 21.4.2018, the capacity enhancement component of the Index during this period has increased substantially from 44% to 54.6% i.e. an increase of more than 10%.
    3. During this period, the Government of India and the States have made tremendous efforts in providing physical infrastructure to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and have recruited officials to strengthen rural Local Bodies, with the result that the component of the Index pertaining to functionaries has seen a substantial jump of more than 10% (from 39.6% to 50.9%).

    (iv)    Top 10 States in Panchayat Devolution Index (DI Score > 55) are

     

    1

    Karnataka

    2

    Kerala

    3

    Tamil Nadu

    4

    Maharashtra

    5

    Uttar Pradesh

    6

    Gujarat

    7

    Tripura

    8

    Rajasthan

    9

    West Bengal

    10

    Chattisgarh

     

    With the score in between 50 and 55, Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha, fall under the category of ‘medium scoring States, showcasing commendable performance across all sub-indicators.

    (v)     Success Stories Reflecting Transformative Change

    Uttar Pradesh’s remarkable journey from 15th to 5th place exemplifies the transformative power of focused governance reforms. The state has revolutionized its accountability framework through innovative transparency initiatives and robust anti-corruption measures, setting new standards in financial accountability and audit compliance. Similarly, Tripura’s impressive leap from 13th to 7th place, particularly in revenue generation and fiscal management, demonstrates how smaller states are equally capable of achieving excellence in local governance.

    (vi)  Devolution Index: Overall:

    The Index presents the overall scores and ranks for States/UTs on six identified dimensions. Based on the weighted aggregation of six dimensional sub-indices, the composite DI is computed for the States/UTs and the same is given below as Figure 1:

    Figure 1: Devolution Index of Panchayats

     

     

    (vii)  Devolution Indics: Dimensional

    States have been ranked in each of the six dimensions:

    Figure-2 : Framework: Kerala ranks first in this indicator related to the mandatory framework.

     

    Figure-3:Functions: Tamil Nadu sets the benchmark in functional devolution.

     

     

    Figure-4:Finances: Karnataka demonstrates exemplary financial management practices.

     

    Figure-5:Functionaries: Gujarat leads in personnel management and capacity building.

     

    Figure-6:Capacity Enhancement: Telangana shows the way in institutional strengthening.

     

    Figure-7:Accountability: Karnataka establishes new standards in transparency.

    Over three decades ago, the 73rd Amendment granted constitutional status to Panchayats. This amendment introduced Part IX, titled ‘The Panchayats”, which includes 16 articles addressing various aspects such as definitions, constitution, composition, elections, functioning, duration, disqualifications for membership, reservations for weaker sections, responsibilities, powers, and audit. While all States comply with the mandatory constitutional provisions regarding elections and reservations, there is significant variation in how powers and resources are devolved to Panchayats across different States and Union Territories. To encourage States to transfer powers and responsibilities to Panchayats and establish an accountability framework, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of India, ranks States and Union Territories based on their performance, as measured by a Devolution Index calculated by an independent institution. The Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) had been responsible for conducting the study for 2023-24 and prepared a report comparing the devolution of functions, finances, and functionaries. The report also evaluated and compared frameworks for capacity enhancement and accountability.

    This comprehensive assessment by IIPA not only celebrates the achievements of high-performing States but also provides a road map for others to enhance their rural governance frameworks. The spirit of competitive and cooperative federalism evident in these results promises an even brighter future for India’s grassroots governance and rural development journey.

    Click Below the following links:

    1. Summary of the Devolution Index Report 2024
    2. Devolution Index 2024 Report (Main)
    3. Devolution Index 2024 Report (Annexes)

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public Sector General Insurance Companies(PSGICs)- Achieve Strong Financial Turnaround, become profitable again

    Source: Government of India

    Public Sector General Insurance Companies(PSGICs)-  Achieve Strong Financial Turnaround, become profitable again

    Government infuses Rs. 17,450 crore into PSGICs between 2019-20 and 2021-22 to support reforms, improve efficiency, and drive profitability

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 8:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Public Sector General Insurance Companies (PSGICs), that historically reported losses, witnessed a major turn around with all of them having become profitable again. While Oriental Insurance Company Ltd. (OICL) and National Insurance Company Ltd. (NICL) started posting quarterly profits from Q4 of F.Y. 2023-24 and Q2 of F.Y. 2024-25 respectively, United India Insurance Company Ltd. (UIICL) posted profit in Q3 of FY 2024-25 after a gap of 7 years. Notably, New India Assurance Company Ltd. (NIACL) has consistently maintained its position as a market leader and has been making profits regularly.

    Government of India has been committed to creating strong and competitive Public Sector General Insurance Companies and introduced reforms including regular key performance indicators-based monitoring. Union Government had also infused a total capital Rs.17,450 Crore in these PSGICs during 2019-20 to 2021-22 with the aim of allowing these companies to undertake structural reforms, enhance operational efficiencies, and return to profitability.

    With improved risk-management practices, loss control initiatives, adoption of technology, development of new products, better customer services and diversification of portfolio, the PSGICs have posted a magnificent turnaround from combined losses of over Rs.10,000 crore in 2022-23, to all individual PSGICs becoming profitable by Q3 of the current financial year and posting a combined profit of Rs.1066 crore in Q3 of 2024-25.

    The Public Sector Insurance Companies remain committed to maintaining this positive trajectory. Ongoing strategic measures and new initiatives continue to be rolled out to further strengthen the financial stability of the PSGICs and improve customer services. PSGICs are also committed to offering high-quality insurance products and services, ensuring long-term sustainability and and enhancing customer experience, while achieving growth. The PSGICs are also committed to the broader objective of achieving “Insurance for All” by 2047.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Empowering Minority Artisans on a Global Stage at Bharat Tex 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Empowering Minority Artisans on a Global Stage at Bharat Tex 2025

    Ministry of Minority Affairs  supporting 100 skilled artisans from across India to showcase their traditional crafts at the mega textile event

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 8:10PM by PIB Delhi

    As part of its commitment to empowering artisans from minority communities, the Ministry of Minority Affairs is supporting 100 skilled artisans from across India to showcase their traditional crafts in home décor, fashion, textiles, and furniture at Bharat Tex 2025. Scheduled from February 12-15, 2025, at the India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida, the mega event of Bharat Tex 2025 will bring together 5,000+ exhibitors, 6,000+ international buyers from 110+ countries, and over 1,20,000 visitors.

     This initiative by the Ministry provides artisans from minority communities with a global platform to connect with buyers, understand market trends, and expand their reach, ensuring sustainable livelihoods and greater economic opportunities.

    Bharat Tex 2025, India’s premier global textile event, seamlessly blends the country’s rich textile heritage with modern innovation. Spanning 2,20,000 sq. mts., it showcases the entire textile value chain, including apparel, home furnishings, fabrics, technical textiles, machinery, chemicals, and startups.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NSSTA Celebrates 17th Foundation Day on 13th February, 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    NSSTA Celebrates 17th Foundation Day on 13th February, 2025

    Theme: “Empowering Governance Through Statistical Excellence – 17 Years of Capacity Development and Collaboration.”

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 7:53PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Statistical Systems Training Academy (NSSTA), Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation, Government of India celebrated its 17th Foundation Day at Mahalanobis Auditorium, NSSTA, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. This celebration marks the 17 years of excellence in statistical training and capacity building of NSSTA. The theme for this year’s celebration was “Empowering Governance Through Statistical Excellence – 17 Years of Capacity Development and Collaboration.” The event underscored NSSTA’s crucial role in equipping statisticians and field officials with advanced methodologies, ensuring high quality data collection that supports evidence-based policy making.

    The celebration commenced with the lighting of the lamp by dignitaries, followed by Vandana and a performance of the musical instrument by the Bureau of Outreach and Communication (BOC), Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. Shri K. B. Surwade, ISS, Additional Director General (CDD), MoSPI, delivered the welcome address, highlighting NSSTA’s role in developing statistical professionals and modernizing data collection methodologies. He emphasized its responsibility in strengthening statistical capacity across central, state, and UT governments, as well as developing countries, through a blend of traditional and modern approaches. He also underscored NSSTA’s national and global collaborations, the Indian data governance framework, and its commitment to fostering a data-driven and prosperous India, while expressing gratitude to MoSPI for their support.

    Shri P. R. Meshram, ISS, Director General (DG), MoSPI, addressed NSSTA’s 17th Foundation Day, highlighting its role in strengthening statistical systems since 2009. He emphasized NSSTA’s contributions to capacity building, having trained over 4,000 officers, including international participants, through collaborations with global institutions. Stressing the evolving role of statisticians, he called for technical proficiency, ethical integrity, and dynamic skilling to support Viksit Bharat 2047. Shri Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India, highlighted global perspectives on capacity building in official statistics and potential collaborations with NSSTA to promote statistical excellence. India has made significant contributions to the global statistical field, with pioneers like Prof. P.C. Mahalanobis shaping modern frameworks that continue to drive policymaking and governance. Accurate and timely data is crucial for tracking Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with platforms like the National Indicator Framework (NIF) and Global Indicator Framework (GIF) relying on robust statistics for informed decision-making. As India advances toward Viksit Bharat 2047, the United Nations remains a committed partner, emphasizing that data should serve as a unifying force in addressing complex global challenges.

     

     

    Dr. Saurabh Garg, IAS, Secretary, MoSPI, provided insights on statistical strategy and India’s future priorities. He emphasized the integration of advanced technologies, real-time data generation, and alternative data sources. Highlighting India’s evolving statistical landscape, he underscored the role of technology, collaboration, and high-quality data in shaping the future. He also acknowledged the National Sample Survey’s 75-year legacy in shaping India’s socio-economic and environmental policies, strengthened through NSSTA’s capacity-building initiatives. District-level data releases are in Plan, which will bolster evidence-based governance. The collaborations with IITs and other institutes of repute have fuelled research. Additionally, India’s leadership in the UN Statistical Commission and initiatives like iGOT have reinforced statistical literacy and innovation. With a focus on quality, inclusivity, and modernization, MoSPI aims to position India as a global leader in data-driven decision-making, aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

     

    Shri Adil Zainulbhai, Chairman, Capacity Building Commission (CBC), addressed the collaboration and role of NSSTA in strengthening the vision of the Capacity Building Commission. NSSTA actively collaborates with iGOT and CBC and has demonstrated exemplary performance during National Learning Week (NLW) alongside the Field Operations Division of MOSPI, with a significant percentage of users completing the target of 4+ learning hours.

    He stressed that the world is evolving rapidly, making it imperative to embrace technology to realize the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. As the pace of data collection and surveys accelerates, there is an need to reassess how information is analyzed and utilized effectively. He emphasized that Al and big data are revolutionizing statistical applications, underscoring the necessity of integrating Al training into decision-making processes and promoting widespread digital adaptation. He further highlighted the critical role of NSSTA in advancing data-driven governance by enabling individuals to comprehend and apply data in everyday decision-making. Leveraging platforms such as IGOT for digital learning, he asserted that the focus must be on equipping all civil servants with essential statistical and technological competencies to enhance policy implementation and governance.

    In continuation to this, Prof. Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar, Chairman of NSC, emphasized its role in capacity development and the growing significance of data in AI and modern technologies. He highlighted that without embracing these innovations, individuals and institutions risk obsolescence. AI models rely on vast datasets for insights, making inferential statistics crucial for data relevance. While AI holds great potential for national development, human intelligence remains vital. He cautioned against misinterpreting data, stressing the need for sound judgment in decision-making.

     

    A vote of thanks presented by Dr. J. S. Tomar, DDG, NSSTA to all dignitaries, our partners, collaborators, and well-wishers, whose continued support and encouragement have strengthened NSSTA’s vision and activities.

    As part of the celebrations, NSSTA also released the Statistical Training needs Assessment (STA) Survey Report, prepared in collaboration with the Capacity Building Commission (CBC). The survey assesses the skill levels and training needs of Indian Statistical Service (ISS) officers and provides key insights to develop a targeted training strategy. The report highlights areas for capacity building, including advanced statistical methods, IT tools, and interdisciplinary competencies, ensuring a structured approach to professional development. Dignitaries at the event emphasized the significance of the report in fostering a culture of continuous learning and strengthening MoSPI’s training initiatives.

     

    A technical session followed, featuring discussions on the use of official statistics in governance. The speakers included Shri Amarjeet Sinha, IAS, Former Secretary, Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, who shared experiences on official statistics use cases for decision-making. Dr. Sonalde Desai, NCAER, highlighted the importance of capacity development for producing and using official statistics. Dr. Amandeep Singh Kapoor, IPS, Director, CDTI, Jaipur, emphasized the importance of NSSTA and CDTI collaboration for mutual benefits. NSSTA is also collaborating with other national institutes of repute, as well as UN and international agencies like the World Bank, IMF SARTTAC. Through partnerships with global organizations, we are aligning our methodologies with international best practices while maintaining their relevance to our unique national context. He highlighted the role of data inclusivity in policymaking, advocating for the integration of AI and non-traditional data sources such as satellite imagery and mobile data to enhance data collection and analysis. Additionally, he stressed the necessity of district-wise granular datasets for more effective policy targeting and capacity-building initiatives. Through partnerships with global organizations, we are aligning our methodologies with international best practices while maintaining their relevance to our unique national context. Representatives from the first three ISS pass-out batches (2007, 2008, and 2009) of NSSTA shared their training experiences and highlighted the way forward.

     

    The event concluded with a vibrant cultural program. Today`s NSSTA 17thfoundation day celebrated NSSTA’s commitment to nurturing a future ready statistical workforce. As India moves towards realizing vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, NSSTA remains a cornerstone in the evolution of India’s statistical ecosystem, ensuring that official statistics continue to drive informed policy making and national progress. With 75 years of NSS shaping India’s development, NSSTA’s role in building the capacity of the next generation of statistical professionals will be instrumental in ensuring a data-driven and prosperous future to achieve the vision of Vikshit Bharat 2047.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Arrangements for 15th National Games athletics (marathon) test event (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Arrangements for 15th National Games athletics (marathon) test event (with photo)
    Arrangements for 15th National Games athletics (marathon) test event (with photo)
    *********************************************************************************

         The 2025 Shenzhen-Hong Kong marathon and the 15th National Games (NG) athletics (marathon) test event will be held on February 23. The Head of the National Games Coordination Office (Hong Kong) (NGCO), Mr Yeung Tak-keung, and representatives of the related government departments and the Hong Kong, China Association of Athletics Affiliates (HKAAA), held a press conference today (February 13) to introduce details of the test event, temporary traffic control measures, clearance arrangements at the boundary control point (BCP), and emergency response and rescue arrangements, as well as other arrangements for the event.           The 15th NG athletics marathon to be held at the end of this year will be the first cross-boundary marathon in the history of the NG, and will be held on a brand new course. This test event is therefore crucial to the organisation of the NG athletics marathon. The entire track is 42.195 kilometres long, of which the section in Hong Kong is 21.841 kilometres. Setting off from the Shenzhen Bay Sports Center, the races will enter Hong Kong via the Shenzhen Bay Port, run along the Shenzhen Bay Bridge and Kong Sham Western Highway Viaduct, then turn back to the Shenzhen Bay Port through the same route, and finally end at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Center. The event is comprised of men’s and women’s races, with the women’s group to depart at 7am and the other to set off at 7.30am. The athletes will enter the Hong Kong section upon completion of approximately 2 kilometres of race route. Both groups are expected to spend around two hours in the Hong Kong section.           Given that part of the track is within the Frontier Closed Area, no public viewing zone will be set up in Hong Kong in order to keep the event unaffected and well-managed. Shenzhen is arranging for live webcast of the races on the event day, while Hong Kong also plans to arrange for live online broadcast of the matches by Radio Television Hong Kong.           To facilitate the smooth running of the race, clearance services of the Shenzhen Bay Port (including all passenger and cargo clearance services) will be suspended during part of the morning on the event day, while temporarily control measures will be implemented on the Shenzhen Bay Bridge and other related roads that day. Relevant arrangements are set out as below:           (1) Clearance service arrangement           Arrival and departure clearance services at the Shenzhen Bay Port will be suspended and passengers and vehicles will be prohibited from entering the port from 2am to 11am on the event day. Travellers should choose other control points to Shenzhen.           Cross-boundary private cars with quota across the Shenzhen Bay Port and cross-boundary goods vehicles may arrive and depart via the Lok Ma Chau, Heung Yuen Wai and Man Kam To BCPs according to the operating hours of the relevant control points on the event day. The above special arrangement will cease upon the re-opening of the Shenzhen Bay Port.           (2) Road control measures           Temporary control measures for the Shenzhen Bay Bridge, the Kong Sham Western Highway and other related roads           On the event day, temporary control measures will be implemented on Shenzhen Bay Bridge, Kong Sham Western Highway and Ha Tsuen Interchange from 2am to 11am. During the temporary control period, the Shenzhen Bay Bridge, the Kong Sham Western Highway and Ha Tsuen Interchange will be closed to all vehicular traffic from eastbound and westbound of Yuen Long Highway and Ha Tsuen Road.           During the suspension of the Shenzhen Bay Port departure service, the Transport Department (TD) expects that the roads leading to the Lok Ma Chau/Huanggang, Man Kam To and Heung Yuen Wai BCPs, including San Tin Interchange, San Sham Road and Lok Ma Chau Road, etc., are expected to be busy with traffic. Therefore, the TD appeals to cross-boundary private cars and other drivers to avoid driving to the above districts during the relevant hours if not necessary. Depending on the prevailing traffic conditions in the area, the Police will deploy appropriate manpower and implement corresponding crowd management measures or special traffic arrangements at the affected control points and relevant road sections. In case of traffic congestion, please exercise tolerance and patience and drive carefully, and follow the instructions of Police on site.           The full clearance services at the Shenzhen Bay Port are expected to resume at around 11am. It is anticipated that traffic will be relatively busy. Travellers and drivers who plan to use the port on that day are advised to plan their trips in advance.           (3) Public transport arrangements           Cross-boundary coach services running between Hong Kong and the Mainland via Shenzhen Bay Port as well as local public transport services serving Shenzhen Bay Port, including franchised buses, green minibuses (GMB), Urban and NT Taxis will be suspended during the implementation of the temporary control at the Shenzhen Bay Port, the Shenzhen Bay Bridge and the Kong Sham Western Highway on the day of event. The bus companies and GMB operators will display notices at termini and en-route stops of the affected routes to inform affected passengers.           The TD has notified the affected operators of cross-boundary and local public transport services to strengthen services to expedite the dispersal of passengers around the resumption of operation of Shenzhen Bay Port. Bus companies will also deploy additional staff at major bus termini and bus stops to assist passenger in need. The Marine Department will liaise with cross-boundary ferry operators, with a view to working out manpower and sailing schedule arrangements for ferry services to and from Shenzhen in advance.           During the temporary control period, travellers should consider using other BCPs for their journeys between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. The TD has coordinated with public transport operators including MTR, franchised bus, green minibuses, Lok Ma Chau-Huanggang shuttle bus, and cross-boundary coaches to strengthen services at other BCPs including Lok Ma Chau Spur Line, Lo Wu, Lok Ma Chau (Huanggang) and Heung Yuen Wai, with a view to catering for upsurge of passenger demand.           (4) Restricted flying zone           To accommodate the event and ensure public safety, a 2-kilometer extension of the Hong Kong section will be set up as a restricted flight zone from 6am to 12nn on the event day.           (5) Emergency response and rescue arrangements           The Fire Services Department (FSD) has formulated relevant contingency plans and will deploy firefighting and ambulance resources at strategic locations inside and outside the track during the race to ensure that the most expeditious and effective measures can be executed to deal with emergencies.           In addition, the medical team of the Hospital Authority will be on board the ambulances of the FSD to ensure that medical personnel with ambulance equipment can respond quickly to emergencies on the track. The Hospital Authority will also designate relevant acute hospitals as designated hospitals, equipped with a green channel to provide prompt medical services. The Auxiliary Medical Service will also deploy ambulance personnel and ambulances to offer medical assistance to the cheering team, volunteers, journalists, etc. on the spot.           A spokesperson for the NGCO said as the NG is the country’s highest-level event, this marathon test event has to meet stringent requirements in terms of the selection of the race course and the organisational arrangements to ensure the safety of athletes. Relevant departments will work together to facilitate the special traffic and transportation arrangements to minimise the impact on the public and travellers who usually use the Shenzhen Bay Port. The spokesman appealed to members of the public and travellers who need to travel to and from Shenzhen on that day to plan their itineraries in advance and use other control points and public transport as far as possible. The spokesperson thanked members of the public and travellers for their understanding, as well as the contributions of various organisations and departments in implementing the relevant arrangements.           In addition to this cross-boundary marathon test event, the NGCO will be holding test events of various sports gradually. The handball test event will be held at the Kai Tak Arena, Kai Tak Sports Park on February 22 and 23, while the triathlon test event will take place at the Central Harbourfront and Victoria Harbour on March 1 and 2.           For information on the games in Hong Kong, please visit the thematic website (www.2025nationalgames.gov.hk/en/index.html), as well the Facebook page (www.facebook.com/2025nationalgames.hk) and Instagram page (www.instagram.com/2025nationalgames.hk).

     
    Ends/Thursday, February 13, 2025Issued at HKT 22:15

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Modi Govt Ensuring Humane Governance, Ease of Living for Pensioners: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Modi Govt Ensuring Humane Governance, Ease of Living for Pensioners: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Government is committed to ensure dignity, ease of living, and financial security for senior citizens

    Launches 12th Pension Adalat, Reinforces Commitment to Pensioners’ Welfare

    Pension Adalats Resolve 18,157 Cases Out of 25,416 Cases

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 7:49PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today reaffirmed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a humane and citizen-centric administration, stating that the government is committed to ensure dignity, ease of living, and financial security for senior citizens. Launching the 12th Pension Adalat, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that the initiative has not only expedited grievance redressal but also reinforced the government’s commitment to pensioners as active contributors to society.

    “Prime Minister Modi has transformed governance into a more humane and responsive system. Pensioners no longer have to struggle with bureaucratic delays or wait decades for justice. The government is committed to making their lives hassle-free through policy reforms and digital interventions,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said.

    Since the introduction of Pension Adalats in 2017, a total of 25,416 cases have been taken up across 12 sessions, with 18,157 cases successfully resolved by various Ministries and Departments. In the 12th Pension Adalat held today, 192 cases were addressed by the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW), while 151 cases were resolved on the spot, underscoring the efficiency of this initiative in delivering timely justice to pensioners.

    The Minister cited several cases where pensioners received long-overdue relief. Dr. Arvind Kumar, a retired Associate Professor from the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, was denied leave encashment due to pending administrative action. Diagnosed with prostate cancer and in urgent need of funds, he filed his grievance on the CPENGRAMS portal. The Pension Adalat took up his case, and the decision was ruled in his favour, ensuring the swift release of ₹26.75 lakh, allowing him to receive timely medical treatment. Similarly, Ms. Anita Kanik Rani, who had been denied her family pension for 20 years due to a succession certificate dispute, had her case expedited through the Adalat, leading to the sanction of ₹22 lakh in arrears, providing much-needed financial relief.

    Other pensioners also benefited from the initiative. Ms. Nirmala Devi, whose pension had not been revised as per the Seventh Pay Commission since 2016, finally saw her grievance addressed, resulting in a revised PPO and the release of pending arrears. Likewise, Ms. Geeta Devi, the mother of a BSF martyr, had been receiving only the normal family pension instead of the entitled Extraordinary Family Pension for 19 years. The Pension Adalat facilitated the correction, ensuring that she received her rightful dues.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that pension reforms are not just about financial settlements but about restoring trust in the system. “These cases reflect the government’s commitment to a governance model that is not only efficient but also compassionate. Pensioners are not just beneficiaries—they are valued citizens who have contributed to the nation,” he said.

    He also highlighted the government’s push for digital reforms to simplify pension processes, including face authentication for digital life certificates, which eliminates the need for pensioners to visit offices physically. “With rising life expectancy, pensioners should not be seen as dependents but as assets to the nation. The government is ensuring their financial security while also recognizing their continued role in society,” he added.

    Commending Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary, DoPPW, and his team, Dr. Jitendra Singh appreciated their dedicated efforts in identifying and resolving long-pending pension grievances. He acknowledged their role in bringing various departments together under one platform, enabling real-time resolution of cases, some of which had been pending for decades.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded by reiterating that the government’s pension policies are designed to uphold the dignity and financial stability of retired employees while promoting a governance model that is transparent, efficient, and focused on citizen welfare.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Highlights in Rajya Sabha India’s robust disaster preparedness including earthquake preparedness as well as disaster management strategies

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Highlights in Rajya Sabha India’s robust disaster preparedness including earthquake preparedness as well as disaster management strategies

    Gujarat Disaster Management Committee was the first of its kind to be established when Sh Narendra Modi was the Chief Minister and subsequently, inspired by this, in 2005, the National Disaster Management Committee came into existence

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 7:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, while responding to questions in the Rajya Sabha, outlined India’s robust disaster preparedness including earthquake preparedness as well as disaster management strategies. He emphasized the significant progress made over the years in strengthening the nation’s resilience to seismic activities, particularly in high-risk regions like Gujarat, Uttarakhand, and the Himalayan belt.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that following the Gujarat earthquakes, the Gujarat Disaster Management Committee was the first of its kind to be established when Sh Narendra Modi was the Chief Minister and subsequently, inspired by this, in 2005, the National Disaster Management Committee came into existence. The Institute of Seismological Research was first established in Gujarat by Narendra Modi as CM and later as PM he also set up the National Centre of Seismology, reinforcing the country’s scientific approach towards earthquake preparedness.

    The Minister informed the House that in the last decade, seismic observatories have increased significantly. In 2014, there were only 80 observatories, whereas today, their number has grown to 168. This expansion surpasses the progress made in the previous 70 years, ensuring better monitoring and response capabilities.

    In earthquake-prone areas like Kutch, Bhuj, Uttarakhand, and the Himalayan belt, significant preventive measures have been adopted. Dr. Jitendra Singh recalled that in 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed a 10-point agenda for disaster risk reduction, aligning with the Vision Document 2047, which envisions an earthquake-resilient India. Regular mock exercises are conducted as part of the preventive strategy.

    Retrofitting of structures has been a major focus post-Bhuj and Kutch earthquakes. Recognizing that nearly 59-60% of India’s geographical area is prone to earthquakes, building code compliance has been strictly enforced. Old buildings are being retrofitted and strengthened to withstand seismic events. Notably, AIIMS New Delhi and Bhuj hospitals were among the first institutions included in the restructuring plan. Moving forward, schools and other sensitive infrastructure will also be integrated into the retrofitting initiative. Financial grants have been sanctioned to support these efforts.

    For the Himalayan region, which is highly vulnerable to earthquakes, early warning systems and a well-defined disaster response framework have been established. Public awareness campaigns have also been a priority. Dr. Jitendra Singh mentioned initiatives such as ‘Aapda Ka Samna’ on Doordarshan, mock drills, and the ‘Homeowners Guide for Earthquake and Cyclone Safety,’ which provides citizens with essential safety measures. Additionally, in 2021, simplified earthquake safety guidelines were introduced, offering comprehensive specifications for statistical and building infrastructure safety under the Building Code of India.

    Regarding Northeast India’s earthquake preparedness, Dr. Jitendra Singh affirmed that it remains a top priority. Several observatories have been installed to monitor seismic activities of magnitude 3.0 and above. Over the past few years, special attention has been given to strengthening disaster resilience in the region. He also underscored that most of the missions and schemes launched in the first 100 days of the Modi Government 3.0 either focus on the Northeast or emphasize technological advancements. Notable initiatives include ‘Mission Mausam’ under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, a semiconductor development mission, and a ₹1,000 crore allocation for space startups. The Minister also noted that Prime Minister Modi has visited the Northeast nearly 70 times in the last decade, demonstrating the government’s commitment to the region’s development.

    Addressing the issue of infrastructure insurance against earthquake-induced damage, Dr. Jitendra Singh informed the Rajya Sabha about the ‘Risk Transfer Mechanism’. This mechanism assesses disaster-related damages and ensures the provision of insurance coverage. He stressed that comprehensive guidelines have been established, and it is the responsibility of relevant agencies to ensure strict adherence to these protocols.

    The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing disaster preparedness and resilience across India, leveraging advanced technology, public awareness, and proactive policy measures to mitigate earthquake risks effectively.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bangkok ETO promotes Greater Bay Area opportunities to Thai enterprises (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Bangkok (Bangkok ETO) hosted a business luncheon in Bangkok, Thailand today (February 13) to highlight the business opportunities that Hong Kong can offer Thai enterprises under the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) development and Hong Kong’s strengths in international business and finance.

         Themed “Unlocking New Horizons: Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area as a Hub for Global Business and Finance”, the luncheon brought together more than 100 guests from the government and business sectors. Among the distinguished attendees was the Minister of Commerce of Thailand, Mr Pichai Naripthaphan, reflecting the strong interest of both Hong Kong and Thailand in deepening economic and trade collaboration.

         In her keynote address, the Commissioner for the Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Ms Maisie Chan, said that under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong serves as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” between the Mainland and the rest of the world. Hong Kong remains the best gateway for overseas companies to tap into the GBA and the wider Mainland market, and for Mainland firms to go global. No other city can match Hong Kong’s level of sophistication of connectivity with the Mainland and global markets.
          
         “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will continue to sharpen Hong Kong’s unique edges and seek further policy innovation and breakthroughs together with Guangdong and Macao, with a view to further enhancing the flow of people, goods, capital and information within the GBA, and creating new opportunities for foreign enterprises in Hong Kong to access the GBA market,” she said.
          
         The Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Joseph Chan, highlighted Hong Kong’s latest developments in the finance sector in the luncheon. He said, “In today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, Hong Kong continues to stand tall as a beacon of opportunity. We are not just a financial centre; we are a dynamic bridge between East and West, connecting global markets with the vast opportunities presented by Mainland China and the Greater Bay Area. Hong Kong is a city of resilience, innovation, and opportunity. Whether you are an investor seeking new markets, a business looking to expand, or a partner aiming to collaborate, Hong Kong is your gateway to success.”
          
         The Director of the Bangkok ETO, Mr Parson Lam, emphasised the close economic ties between Hong Kong and Thailand and noted that both sides can further strengthen their partnership to achieve mutual benefits and a win-win outcome. He said, “Hong Kong enjoys unparalleled advantages in various areas, including taxation, legal framework, business environment and professional services. The Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement also offers numerous facilitation measures for Hong Kong businesses. Thai enterprises can leverage Hong Kong as a gateway to the GBA and the vast Mainland market. At the same time, Thai companies can make use of Hong Kong’s world-class financial services for capital raising and financial management, providing momentum for their growth. On the other hand, as a high value-added supply chain services centre, Hong Kong will continue to assist Mainland enterprises in going global, supporting their establishment in markets including Thailand.”

         The luncheon provided a valuable platform for Thai businesses to gain insights into the unique strengths of Hong Kong as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”, as well as the GBA’s dynamic business landscape, and to explore collaboration opportunities with Hong Kong. The Bangkok ETO remains committed to fostering closer economic ties, enhancing cross-border connectivity between Hong Kong and Thailand, and supporting businesses in seizing the vast opportunities presented by regional and global developments.                  

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Post-Magh Purnima Amrit Snan, Overnight Cleanliness Drive ensures that Devotees Experience a Sacred and Clean Holy Dip; Special Cleaning Vehicles and Cesspool Operations Maintain Hygiene at Ghats and Fairgrounds

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 7:28PM by PIB Delhi

    Following the Magh Purnima Amrit Snan at Mahakumbh 2025, a dedicated team of sanitation workers launched an extensive cleaning drive, restoring the ghats and fairgrounds to their pristine state overnight. On Wednesday, over 2 crore devotees took the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, leaving behind floral offerings, clothes, prasad, and other solid waste. The administration promptly initiated the cleanliness drive once the crowds began to disperse, ensuring that by the next morning, the sacred riverbanks were completely clean.

     

     

    Special Cleaning Drive and Cesspool Operation for Comprehensive Hygiene

    Special cleaning vehicles were deployed to collect solid waste from the ghats and the fairground. Additionally, a cesspool operation was carried out to maintain the cleanliness of all public toilets in the area. The Mela Sanitation in-charge stated that the cleanliness drives not only covered the ghats but also extended to all major roads in the fairgrounds, which were swept and maintained thoroughly. Further, dustbins and liner bags were emptied using tipper trucks and compactors, ensuring that the entire Mahakumbh area remained clean and well-organized.

    Devotees and Locals Express Gratitude

    Devotees and local residents praised the swift and effective cleanliness drive conducted by the administration. Many expressed their appreciation, stating that the administration’s commitment had proven that no effort was being spared in making Mahakumbh 2025 an organized and spotless event.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: If you eat right, you will be able to write your exams better!: Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 7:27PM by PIB Delhi

    Emphasising that eating right and sleeping well will help one write the exams better, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi urged everyone to watch the 4th episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha tomorrow. 

    Responding to a post on X by Ministry of Education, Shri Modi said:

    “If you eat right, you will be able to write your exams better! The 4th episode of ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ will be all about eating and sleeping well in the run up to exam prep. Listen to Shonali Sabherwal, Rujuta Diwekar and Revant Himatsingka share their views on this subject tomorrow, 14th February. #PPC2025 #ExamWarriors

    @foodpharmer2”

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 to be inaugurated on 15th February

    Source: Government of India

    Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 to be inaugurated on 15th February

    The first team of delegates flagged off at Chennai

    Theme of KTS 3.0 will be Sage Agasthyar

    1st time the participants of KTS 3.0 to experience Mahakumbh and visit Ram Mandir at Ayodhya

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 7:24PM by PIB Delhi

    The Governor of Tamil Nadu, Thiru R.N. Ravi, flagged off the train carrying the first batch of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0 delegates—including students, teachers, and writers—today at Dr. MGR Central Railway Station, Chennai. This 10-day-long event is scheduled to take place from 15th to 24th February 2025. Director of the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Prof. V. Kamakoti and other dignitaries were also present at the event.

    The Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, in a social media message, welcomed everyone to embrace the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ at Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0. He emphasized that the event serves to cherish, celebrate, and strengthen the deep-rooted bonds between Kashi and Tamil Nadu—two enduring centers of culture, civilization, and knowledge.

     

     

     

    The central theme of this edition of KTS will be Maharishi Agasthyar and Mahakumbh and Shri Ayodhya Dham will be the backdrop. The event will offer a divine experience and bring Tamil Nadu and Kashi—the two timeless centres of our civilisation and culture, more closer.

    An exhibition on the different facets of Sage Agasthyar and his contributions to world of Health, Philosophy, Science, Linguistics, Literature, Polity, Culture, Art, particularly to Tamil and Tamil Nadu, etc. and seminars, workshops, book release, etc. will be organised at Kashi during KTS 3.0.

    This year, the government has decided to bring around 1000 delegates from Tamil Nadu under five categories/groups: (i) Students, Teachers, and Writers; (ii) Farmers and Artisans (Vishwakarma Categories); (iii) Professionals and Small Entrepreneurs; (iv) Women (SHG, Mudra Loan beneficiaries, DBHPS Pracharaks); and (v) Start-up, Innovation, Edu-Tech, Research. This year, an additional group of around 200 students of Tamil origin studying in various CUs will be a part of this event to enliven the bond between Kashi and Tamil Nadu. Participation of youth in all categories has been encouraged this year. The duration of the tour for the delegates will be 8 days (4 for travel, 4 at site). The first group left Tamil Nadu today and the last group will return to Tamil Nadu on 26th February 2025.

    The objective of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam is to rediscover, reaffirm, and celebrate the age-old links between Tamil Nadu and Kashi—two of the country’s most important and ancient seats of learning.

    Kashi Tamil Sangamam is being organized by the Ministry of Education, Govt. of India in collaboration with other ministries including Culture, Textiles, Railways, Tourism, Food Processing, I&B etc. and the Govt. of UP. The programme aims to provide an opportunity for scholars, students, philosophers, traders, artisans, artists and people from other walks of life from the two regions to come together, share their knowledge, culture and best practices and learn from each other’s experience. It also aims to make the youth aware and experience cultural oneness. The endeavour is in sync with NEP 2020’s emphasis on integrating the wealth of Indian Knowledge Systems with modern systems of knowledge. IIT Madras and BHU are the two implementing agencies for the programme.

    The Government has so far celebrated the Kashi Tamil Sangamam on two occasions earlier; i.e., for one month in 2022 and for a fortnight in 2023 and around 4000 delegates from Tamil Nadu have been a part of this event. In both the editions of KTS, there were overwhelming responses from people of Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. IIT Madras will be the sender institution and BHU the receiving institution, as in the earlier editions.

    Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, launched the registration portal for KTS 3.0 on 15thJanuary 2025. The portal for registration was open till 1st February 2025.

    KTS 2.0 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at Varanasi on 17th December, 2023, with the first-ever real-time, app-based translation of a part of the Prime Minister’s speech in Tamil for the benefit of visiting Tamil delegates.

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    MOE/KTS/13 February 2025/2

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mahakumbh 2025: Over 600 Destitute Elderly Pilgrims taken Holy Dip so far at the Triveni Sangam, under a Special Initiative by the Government

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 7:26PM by PIB Delhi

    Under a special initiative by the administration, arrangements have been made for 2,000 destitute elderly individuals to take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. So far, over 600 senior citizens have been facilitated for this sacred ritual. This initiative not only promotes respect for the elderly but also sets an example of service and harmony in society.

     

     

    Following the directives of Uttar Pradesh’s Social Welfare Minister, Shri Aseem Arun, more than 100 senior citizens from old age homes in Deoria, Bahraich, Amroha, and Bijnor districts have been brought to Prayagraj over the past two days. For the first time, the Social Welfare Department has set up a special camp at the Mahakumbh, featuring an ashram with a capacity of 100 beds. This camp offers free food, accommodation, and medical facilities for the elderly. This innovative effort by the Government at Mahakumbh 2025 has provided spiritual and mental peace to destitute senior citizens.

     

     

    The camp also focuses on the mental and spiritual well-being of the elderly. Their daily routine begins with yoga and meditation, promoting mental peace and health benefits. In the evenings, bhajan-kirtan sessions are organized, creating a spiritual atmosphere and preventing the elderly from feeling lonely. Through this initiative, society is being encouraged to foster a sense of respect and care for the elderly.

     

     

    A dedicated medical team is available 24/7 at the ashram set up in the Mahakumbh area, ensuring that no elderly individual faces health issues. The administration has set a new benchmark in providing both spiritual and emotional peace to senior citizens on this historic occasion. This special initiative by the government at Mahakumbh not only honors the faith of the elderly but also conveys a powerful message that governance is not just about development but also about service and respect.

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Strengthens Global Energy Partnerships at India Energy Week 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 7:00PM by PIB Delhi

    At the India Energy Week 2025, India signed multiple strategic agreements and MoUs aimed at enhancing energy security, diversifying supply sources, and fostering innovation in the oil and gas sector. Addressing a press conference on the sidelines of the event, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas highlighted these agreements as crucial steps toward a more resilient and sustainable energy future for the country. 

    As part of efforts to diversify crude oil imports, BPCL signed an optional term contract with Petrobras, Brazil, to import up to 6 million barrels of crude. Strengthening India’s transition to a natural gas-based economy, IOCL and ADNOC (UAE) signed a USD 7 billion contract to source 1.2 MMTPA LNG for 14 years starting in 2026, while BPCL and ADNOC entered into a five-year LNG offtake agreement for 2.4 MMT, extendable by another five years. Expanding India’s role as a regional energy supplier, IOCL signed its first LNG export agreement with Nepal’s Yogya Holdings, ensuring the delivery of 1,000 metric tons (TMT) annually via cryogenic trucks through Odisha’s Dhamra Terminal. 

    On the technical front, ONGC selected BP as the Technical Services Provider for the Mumbai High field, India’s largest offshore oilfield. BP will conduct a comprehensive review of field performance, implement technological improvements, and work to stabilize and enhance production. Additionally, EIL signed an MoU with BP Business Solutions India Pvt. Ltd. To collaborate on refining, pipeline operations, and emission reduction technologies. 

    In offshore exploration, ONGC Videsh Ltd. And Petrobras signed an MoU to jointly participate in upstream oil and gas projects in Brazil, India, and third countries, exploring opportunities in trading, low-carbon solutions, and digitalization. Oil India Limited and Petrobras also signed an MoU for hydrocarbon exploration in India’s deep and ultra-deep offshore basins, aligning with the government’s Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy. 

    India also took steps toward clean energy with BPCL partnering with Eco Wave Power, Israel, to establish the country’s first wave energy pilot project in Mumbai using wave energy converter technology. In the biofuel sector, BPCL signed an MoU with the National Sugar Institute, Kanpur, to scale up sweet sorghum-based bioethanol production and build capacity for farmers and industry partners. 

    Further enhancing hydrocarbon trade, BPCL entered into an agreement with Equinor India Pvt. Ltd. for the purchase of LPG (propane and butane).

    The Minister emphasized that these agreements reaffirm India’s commitment to securing affordable, sustainable, and diversified energy supplies while fostering global collaborations in cutting-edge energy solutions. These partnerships will help us achieve our energy transition goals and ensure a robust and resilient energy ecosystem for India. 

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    MONIKA

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Symphony of India Challenge 2025: A Platform for Musical Talent and Innovation under WAVES

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Symphony of India Challenge 2025: A Platform for Musical Talent and Innovation under WAVES

    Top 3 Winning Teams to perform at World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 6:53PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 13th February 2025

    The stage is set for an extraordinary musical journey as the Symphony of India Challenge, a flagship event under the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), gears up to showcase the finest musical talents from across the nation. With an overwhelming 212 musicians initially registering for the challenge, a rigorous selection process has now brought forward the top 80 exceptional classical and folk artists, who will compete in the grand Gala Round.

    Starting with Solo performance, they have been merged into groups of four and then into eight and finally into 10 musicians who create original music and recreate old Folks to create an amazing symphony of musical genius. The final top 3 of 10 musicians each will form the mega symphony where they will have the opportunity to perform on the prestigious WAVES platform. The three winning team of the series will be performing in front of an enthusiastic audience, giving them the chance to not only compete but also introduce new styles, genres, and musical influences.

    About Symphony of India Challenge is one of the 25 Challenges as part of the ‘Create in India Challenge – Season 1’ launched by Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting (I&B), Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw for World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES)

    Read in detail. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2047812

    Symphony of India Challenge  provides an invaluable opportunity for participants to present their music to a diverse and wide audience, potentially launching their careers and gaining exposure within the dynamic world of music and entertainment.

    The event promises to be an exciting experience for the public, as they will be exposed to a variety of musical performances that span a wide range of genres, making it an event that truly celebrates the diverse tastes of music lovers.

    The Symphony of India Challenge aims to push the boundaries of creativity and music while fostering a sense of community, innovation, and growth. WAVES is set to be a leading platform for nurturing young talent and offering fresh musical experiences to audiences around the globe.

    The challenge is being produced by Doordarshan in coordination with Mahavir Jain Films and Directed by the Veteran show Director Shruti Anindita Vermaa. Hosted by the prolific talent Gaurav Dubey, the challenge is Judged by Padmashri Soma Ghosh, Singer Shruti Pathak and the Folk Singer Swaroop Khan. The challenge has Indian mentors of international repute like Percussionist Taufiq Qureshi, Padmashri Flutist Ronu Majumdar, Violinist Sunita Bhuyan, Percussionist Pandit Dinesh, Sri Tanmoy Bose, Leslie Louis and Flutist Rakesh Chaurasia coming in to Judge the series.     

    The Symphony of India Challenge will be telecast on Doordarshan soon. For further information and to register for event updates, please visit the official WAVES website at www.wavesindia.org

    About WAVES:

    Inaugural Edition of World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) is scheduled to take place in Jio World Convention Center, Mumbai from 1st to 4th May, 2025. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has envisaged WAVES as a flagship global platform for the conversance of the broadcasting, digital media, advertising, animation, visual effects, gaming, e-sports, music sectors. WAVES 2025 will feature ground breaking announcements and initiatives to reinforce India’s role as a leading investment destination for the Media and Entertainment industry.

     

    DL/PM

     

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

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Joseph Hiatt Named First Superintendent of Yellow Mountain State Natural Area

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Joseph Hiatt Named First Superintendent of Yellow Mountain State Natural Area

    Joseph Hiatt Named First Superintendent of Yellow Mountain State Natural Area
    jejohnson6

    Joseph Hiatt has been promoted to park superintendent of Yellow Mountain State Natural Area in Avery and Mitchell counties, the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation announced. Hiatt is serving as the first park superintendent of the state natural area, which was previously managed by staff at Grandfather Mountain State Park.

    A park superintendent oversees operations and administration at a park and has a wide range of responsibilities that include staffing, law enforcement, planning, resource management, education, and visitor services. At a state natural area transitioning from being managed by another state park, priorities will be hiring staff, monitoring accesses, marking boundaries, and overseeing natural resource projects and conservation efforts.

    Hiatt is being promoted from a ranger position at Chimney Rock State Park. A native of Greensboro, he attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and received a bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management. He worked for the Greensboro Parks and Recreation Department while in college and later also worked in maintenance for Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department’s Triad Park.

    Hiatt began his career with the division as an environmental education instructor at Haw River State Park, taking a break in between seasons to hike the entire Appalachian Trail. In 2016, he joined Dismal Swamp State Park as a park ranger, before heading out west to Chimney Rock. After a few years there, he was promoted to lead natural resource ranger at the park. Hiatt holds a pesticide applicator license and an intermediate law enforcement certificate. He is also currently serving as the chair of the division’s interpretation and education council.

    “We are thrilled to have a park superintendent at Yellow Mountain State Natural Area, which at nearly 4,000 acres is one of the larger units in the state parks system,” said Deputy Director of Operations Kathy Capps. “Joe’s dedication to natural resource management, education, and law enforcement has been evident in his many years of service for State Parks. We look forward to him taking on the challenge of shaping the future of Yellow Mountain.”

    Yellow Mountain State Natural Area comprises three land parcels spanning two counties and 3,805 acres of mountain landscape near the Tennessee border. Part of the Roan Mountain highlands, it is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the southern Appalachians, home to many rare and endangered species, including the golden-winged warbler. Though the state natural area is named after Big Yellow and Little Yellow mountains, it includes a number of high-elevation heath balds and mountain peaks.

    The state natural area has been open under the management of Grandfather Mountain State Park but has sustained significant damage due to Hurricane Helene. It does not have public facilities, but the division is working on repairing the existing storm-damaged roads and assessing the landscape for potential passive recreation opportunities.

    About North Carolina State Parks
    North Carolina State Parks manages more than 264,000 acres of iconic landscape within North Carolina’s state parks, state recreation areas and state natural areas. It administers the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, including its local grants program, as well as a state trails program, North Carolina Natural and Scenic Rivers and more, all with a mission dedicated to conservation, recreation and education. The state parks system welcomes more than 19 million visitors annually.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Feb 13, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Political consultations in New Delhi to further strengthen bilateral relations

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    The state secretary of the FDFA, Mr Alexandre Fasel, and his Indian counterpart, Mr Tanmaya Lal, met today in New Delhi for the 13th round of annual bilateral political consultations. These discussions marked an important stage in cooperation between the two countries, focusing on economic relations, environmental challenges and regional and international issues.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Resilience, Adaptation to Climate Change Must Be at Centre of Decolonization Talks, Secretary-General Says, as Special Committee Begins Annual Session

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Decolonization is not the end of a journey, but the first step on a new path, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said today as the Special Committee on the Situation with regard to the implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples began its 2025 Session.

    Opening the session, Mr. Guterres — speaking via a message delivered by Courtney Rattray, his Chef de Cabinet — pointed out that even after achieving decolonization, countries still need to grapple with the legacies of being oppressed, which range from chronic institutional underinvestment to profound imbalances and discrimination.  He also recalled how liberation movements in Portuguese colonies transformed societies, adding that decolonization has been one of the defining causes of his own political journey.

    The path to decolonization requires collaboration between Non-Self-Governing Territories, administering Powers and Member States, he said, calling for more dialogue and constructive discussions.  “Resilience and adaption need to be at the heart” of these discussions, he said, because most Non-Self-Governing Territories are small islands at the front line of the climate crisis.

    Menissa Rambally (Saint Lucia), who was re-elected as Chair for this session, noted that 2025 marks the midpoint of the fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism. “Let us move forward with determination and unity, inspired by the resilience and aspirations of the peoples of the Non-Self-Governing Territories,” she said.  Recalling the Special Committee’s visiting mission to the British Virgin Islands in August 2024, she thanked the United Kingdom and the Government and people of the British Virgin Islands for their cooperation.

    Timor-Leste to Host Regional Seminar

    She also thanked the Government and people of Timor-Leste for their willingness to host this year’s regional seminar.  The Committee then approved the Government of that country as host of the 2025 Pacific regional seminar from 21 to 23 May in Dili, while noting that the seminar is traditionally held to coincide with the annual observance of the Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of Non-Self-Governing Territories — 25 to 31 May.

    The Special Committee also heard from the representative of Timor-Leste, who said he was “deeply honoured by the trust” vested in his country.  It not merely an honour, but a responsibility, as well, he said, welcoming it as a recognition of his nation’s resilience.  “We stand ready to provide a nurturing and inspiring environment for dialogue, reflection and strategic planning,” he said, noting that preparations are underway.  Noting that wisdom and patience are needed for transformative change, he looked forward to the day when decolonization is not just a goal but a lived reality.

    Report of Visiting Mission to British Virgin Islands

    The Chair then introduced the report of the visiting mission to the British Virgin Islands (document A/AC.109/2025/20), noting that it was held from 26 to 27 August 2024, and included meetings with a broad range of civil society representatives.  Highlighting the “exceptional dialogue” with territorial Government, the people of the Territory and the administering Power, she said that the mission identified a need for improved education on decolonization so that the people can make informed decisions about their future.  The mission also noted a growing consensus to advance the decolonization process, she said, adding that the United Kingdom and United Nations remain essential to facilitating this.

    The representative of Antigua and Barbuda also recalled the visiting mission and described it as “a major step in giving a voice to the islanders”.  Highlighting the relationship between the British Virgin Islands and his country, as well as the wider Caribbean community, he noted that the mission met with a wide cross-section of the Islands’ population.  Many people expressed the need for developing self-Government arrangements and shared openly about the process that would be required.  “They are aware of the challenge ahead” and they know what they need, he said, stressing the need for continued engagement between the British Virgin Islands and the United Kingdom.

    The representatives of Papua New Guinea and Iraq welcomed the recommendations in the report of the visiting mission, while Saint Lucia’s delegate noted the role of education in promoting self-determination.

    Committee Members Reaffirm Commitment to Decolonization

    Committee members, including the representatives of Syria, Bolivia, India and Sierra Leone, also took the opportunity to reaffirm commitment to decolonization.  The representative of Indonesia, recalling the Bandung Conference of 1955, held in his country, underscored the need to avoid a “one-size-fits-all approach”.

    Cuba’s delegate expressed support for self-determination for “the brotherly people of Puerto Rico”.  Though colonialism was abolished practically everywhere in the second half of the twentieth century, it prevails in new modes, he pointed out.  Nicaragua’s delegate called for more extensive participation from Non-Self-Governing Territories in the regional seminars.

    Fiji’s delegate said the prime consideration in self-determination is the will of the people.  “If we look at recent history, in the last 65 years,” he said, it is clear that it is more important to enable Non-Self-Governing Territories to be self-governing “and then we help them”.  The process of helping them meet the conditions for self-determination is not going to work, he cautioned, stressing that the process should be driven by “the determination of the human beings involved.”

    Committee Elects Bureau and Approve Work Programme

    Also today, the Special Committee elected its Bureau by acclamation, electing Ernesto Soberón Guzmán (Cuba), Hari Prabowo (Indonesia) and Michael Imran Kanu (Sierra Leone) as Vice-Chairs.  Koussay Aldahhak (Syria) was re-elected as Rapporteur.

    Members also approved their “Organization of work: relevant resolutions and decisions of the General Assembly” (document A/AC.109/2025/L.1) and tentative work programme and timetable (document A/AC.109/2025/L.2), as orally revised.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 13 February 2025 Departmental update Public notice and comment on new members of the Global Validation Advisory Committee (GVAC)

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The global secretariat of the Global Validation Advisory Committee (GVAC) on the validation of elimination of mother-to-child transmission and elimination of viral hepatitis B and C as a public health problem has considered the appointment of four new members to the Committee. The new members bring expertise crucial to viral hepatitis C elimination to the GVAC. With these appointments, the Global Validation Secretariat bolsters the capacity of the GVAC to conduct its mission for assessing whether countries have met the criteria for validation of hepatitis elimination as a public health problem.

    The new members are:

    1. Dr Kimberly Green, Global Director for Primary Health Care (PHC), PATH, United States of America. Dr Green will bring expertise in prevention and service delivery of viral hepatitis.
    2. Ms Rachel Halford, Chief Executive Officer, The Hepatitis C Trust, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Ms Halford will bring expertise in civil society, human rights, community engagement and lived experience of hepatitis C.
    3. Dr Ajeet Singh Bhadoria, Additional Professor, Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India. Dr Singh Bhadoria will bring expertise in epidemiology of liver diseases, patient care and services for viral hepatitis.
    4. Dr Ibou Thior, Senior Technical Adviser, PATH, United States of America. Dr Thior will bring expertise in viral hepatitis research, blood safety and injection safety for prevention of hepatitis C.

    To enhance WHO’s management of conflicts of interest, as well as strengthen public trust and transparency in connection with WHO advisory groups involving the provision of technical advice, the names and brief biographies of individuals being considered for assignment to WHO advisory groups are disclosed for public notice and comment.

    The comments received by WHO through the public notice and comment process are treated confidentially and their receipt will be acknowledged through a generic email notification to the sender. Comments and perceptions brought to the attention of WHO through this process are an integral component of WHO’s conflict of interest assessment policy and are carefully reviewed. WHO reserves the right to discuss information received through this process with the relevant expert with no attribution to the provider of such information. Upon review and assessment of the information received through this process, WHO, in its sole discretion, may take appropriate management action in accordance with its policies.

    The list of participating experts, a summary of relevant interests disclosed by such experts, and any appropriate mitigation measures taken by WHO relating to the management of conflicts of interests, will be reported publicly in accordance with WHO practice.

    The deadline for public comments is 24 February 2025. Please send your comment to gvacsecretariat@who.int with subject: Public comments on new GVAC members.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy To McMahon: You’re Saying It’s A Possibility That A Public School With Programming Related to Race Could Lose Federal Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    February 13, 2025

    [embedded content]
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, on Thursday questioned Linda McMahon at a hearing on her nomination for Secretary of Education. Murphy pressed McMahon on how a Trump administration executive order restricting federal funding for DEI programs will impact schools across the country. McMahon refused to provide clarity for the thousands of teachers and school administrators who are wondering whether offering African American history courses, supporting cultural student groups, or celebrating Black History Month will put their federal funding at risk.
    A full transcript of Murphy’s exchange with McMahon can be found below
    MURPHY: “Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Ms. McMahon, good to see you. You and I have spent a lot of time over the years, and I appreciate your willingness to sit before the committee and answer some really important questions.
    “I want to talk to you about an executive order that the Trump administration issued that commands agencies, including the Department of Education, to eliminate grants to organizations and entities that support DEI programs and activities. As you know, this has a lot of schools all across the country scrambling, because they have no idea what that means. They don’t know because the order doesn’t define DEI as to whether they are in compliance or out of compliance, and whether they are going to have their federal grants compromised. How does a school know whether it’s running a DEI program or not?”
    MCMAHON: “Well certainly, and thank you Senator, and it is good to see you again outside of the state of Connecticut, where we run into each other. DEI, I think, has been–it’s a program that’s tough. It was put in place ostensibly for more diversity, for equity and inclusion. And I think what we’re seeing is that it’s having an opposite effect. We are getting back to more segregating of our schools, instead of having more inclusion in our schools. When there are DEI programs that say that Black students need separate graduation ceremonies or Hispanics need separate ceremonies, we are not achieving what we wanted to achieve with inclusion.”
    MURPHY: “Let me give you an example then. So this order applies to Department of Defense schools, and those schools have canceled all programming around Black History Month. So if a school in Connecticut celebrates Martin Luther King Day and has a series of events and programming teaching about Black history, are they in violation of a policy that says schools should stop running DEI programs?”
    MCMAHON: “Not in my view, that is clearly not the case. The celebration of Martin Luther King Day and Black History Month should be celebrated throughout all of our schools. I believe that Martin Luther King was one of the strongest proponents of making sure that we look at all of our populations, when he said that he would hope that his children wouldn’t be judged by the color of their skin, but the content of their character, and I think that is the fundamental basis that we should celebrate Black History Month.”
    MURPHY: “West Point has closed down all ethnic clubs. So the Society of Black Engineers can no longer meet because they believe that to be in compliance with this order, they cannot have groups structured around ethnic or racial affiliations. Would public schools be in violation of this order? Would they risk funding if they had clubs that students could belong to based on their racial or ethnic identity?” 
    MCMAHON: “Well, I certainly today don’t want to address hypothetical situations. I would like, once I’m confirmed, to get in and assess these programs, look at what has been covered–”
    MURPHY: “Isn’t that a pretty easy one? I mean, you’re saying that it’s a possibility that if a school has a club for Vietnamese American students or Black students, where they meet after school, that they could be potentially in jeopardy of receiving federal funding?”
    MCMAHON: “Again, I would like to fully understand what that order is and what those clubs are doing.”
    MURPHY: “That’s pretty chilling. I think schools all around the country are going to hear that. What about educational programming centered around specific ethnic and racial experiences? My son is in a public school. He takes a class called African American History. If you are running an African American history class, could you perhaps be in violation of this executive order?”
    MCMAHON: “I’m not quite certain, and I’d like to look into it further and get back to you on that.”
    MURPHY: “So there’s a possibility– there’s a possibility, you’re saying– that public schools that run African American history classes, right, this is a class that has been taught in public schools for decades, could lose federal funding if they continue to teach African American history?”
    MCMAHON: “No, that’s not what I’m saying. I’m saying that I would like to take a look at these programs and fully understand the breadth of the executive order and get back to you on that.”
    MURPHY: “I think you are going to have a lot of educators and a lot of principals and administrators scrambling right now. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, my time’s expired.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Living to tell the story: Lawsuit accuses ER doctor of anti-Indigenous racism

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Mary Jane Logan McCallum, Professor of History, University of Winnipeg

    On Jan. 15, 2023, Justin Flett arrived at the emergency room at St. Anthony’s Hospital, in the Pas, Manitoba.

    According to Flett’s statement of claim, submitted to the Court of King’s Bench of Manitoba in December and as reported by CBC News and APTN, he told the triage nurse he was experiencing distressing abdominal pain.

    Flett was assigned a triage score of five, which is intended for non-urgent low-priority cases. The statement of claim alleges that the physician who finally saw Flett insinuated that he was hungover, saying something to the effect of: “I don’t know what to tell you, we don’t treat you here for hangovers.”. Flett was not given diagnostic tests, imaging, a physical examination or pain medication.

    In a statement made through his lawyer, Flett said, “I knew that there was something seriously wrong with me and this doctor didn’t seem to want to take me seriously or help me. In that moment, I just felt worthless.”

    Flett is a father of six, a building contractor, a resident of Winnipeg and a citizen of Tataskweyak First Nation.

    Flett’s statement of claim says he endured an 11-hour bus trip to Winnipeg to seek the care he needed while in severe pain and without other healthcare alternatives.

    Once in Winnipeg, Flett called 911 and requested an ambulance. He was instructed by the operator to take a taxi to Seven Oaks Hospital. There he was triaged as a priority but still told to wait.

    He finally underwent surgery for acute appendicitis more than 30 hours after he first sought care. The surgery left Flett with complications.

    Flett is suing the Winnipeg and Northern Regional health authorities as well as an ER doctor, accusing them of racism and failing to provide timely care.

    As scholars of Indigenous and settler colonial history, we see Flett’s story within an enduring pattern of anti-Indigenous medical racism.

    A pattern of anti-Indigenous medical racism

    Brian Sinclair is not here to personally tell his version of what happened in the 34 hours he spent in September 2008 in the emergency room of a major Winnipeg hospital.

    Structures of Indifference by Mary Jane Logan McCallum and Adele Perry.

    Sinclair, a middle-aged Anishinaabe man, died from what is normally an easily treated infection. In our 2018 book, Structures of Indifference: An Indigenous Life and Death in a Canadian City, we show how Sinclair’s tragic and unnecessary death reveals some painful truths about the ongoing history of settler colonialism, and how its legacies continue to devalue Indigenous life.

    Sinclair’s death and Flett’s accusations can only be understood within a history of settler colonialism and segregated medical care that is exemplified by the “Indian hospitals” that ran from the 1920s to the 1980s. They must also be understood in context of a society that blames Indigenous people for their own deaths.

    Sinclair was assumed to be drunk by medical staff and did not receive timely or adequate care, while Flett accuses medical authorities in Manitoba of the same treatment.

    These types of experiences are not particular to Manitoba, but are mirrored by incidents of medical racism across Canada.

    Tania Dick, Dzawada̱ʼenux̱w registered nurse and current Indigenous Nursing Lead at the University of British Columbia, explained to CBC’s The Current in 2018 that many Indigenous families have their own “Brian Sinclair story.”

    This includes the family of Joyce Echaquan. Echaquan was a 34-year-old Atikamew mother of six, who recorded hospital staff hurling racial slurs at her while withholding medical treatment causing her death in a hospital north of Montréal in September 2020.

    Inadequate treatment

    Both Echequan’s and Sinclair’s families and communities made sure that their deaths did not go unnoticed.

    In Sinclair’s case, an inquest and a number of reports resulted in significant changes to the way that patients are triaged and managed.

    Echaquan’s experience led to an inquest and the development of Joyce’s Principle, which aims to “guarantee to all Indigenous people the right of equitable access, without any discrimination, to all social and health services.”

    These cases have helped fuel a growing awareness about anti-Indigenous medical racism, including among organizations of medical professionals.

    Apologies and pledges

    Two years ago, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba (CPSM) apologized and accepted responsibility for failing to fairly treat Indigenous patients and they pledged to take action against anti-Indigenous racism.

    And last year, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) also acknowledged the racism and discrimination that Indigenous patients and health care providers face. They apologized and pledged to “act against anti-Indigenous racism in health care.”

    When we discuss these stories and the apologies in our classrooms we find our students know it is time to think beyond quick fixes and surface remedies. Rather, we need to address racism and colonialism as powerful determinants of health.

    The inquests, reports and apologies appear to have fallen short. Flett’s lawsuit claims that his treatment violated Sections 7 and 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. It seeks damages under Section 24.1, which says that those whose rights or freedoms have been violated can seek remedies from the courts.

    It is a good time for us all to think about the ongoing costs of anti-Indigenous racism in Canada’s past and present.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Living to tell the story: Lawsuit accuses ER doctor of anti-Indigenous racism – https://theconversation.com/living-to-tell-the-story-lawsuit-accuses-er-doctor-of-anti-indigenous-racism-247078

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine & Subramanyam Introduce Bill to Designate George C. Marshall House as a National Park Service Affiliated Area

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) and U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10) introduced legislation to designate the General George C. Marshall House in Leesburg, known as Dodona Manor, as an affiliated area under the National Park Service (NPS). Warner and Kaine advocated for years alongside then-U.S. Representative Jennifer Wexton for an official designation, which would provide new resources to preserve and celebrate General Marshall’s legacy at the site, including technical assistance to support restoration efforts, accessibility improvements, and new programming.
    “Dodona Manor has an immense historic value to our nation and is worth celebrating,” said the lawmakers. “Turning it into an affiliated area under the National Park Service is a fitting way to preserve this property, honor General Marshall’s legacy and help future generations learn about his life. We are glad to introduce this legislation together and will keep working to get it across the finish line.”
    “The Marshall Center and the Leesburg community are deeply grateful to Congressman Subramanyam and Senators Kaine and Warner for their leadership in introducing legislation to designate George C. Marshall’s Dodona Manor as an affiliated area of the National Park System. This significant step recognizes General Marshall’s enduring legacy and will ensure the preservation of his historic home for future generations,” said Marshall Center Chairman Tom Greenspon. “We are honored to continue our work in safeguarding this national treasure and look forward to collaborating with our legislative champions to achieve full affiliation.”
    General Marshall led a lifetime of public service, serving as Chief of Staff to the Army during America’s entry into World War II, as Secretary of State where he orchestrated the historic Marshall Plan to rebuild Europe following the war—work for which he received a Nobel Peace Prize—and as Secretary of Defense after the onset of the Korean War.
    Dodona Manor is currently registered as a National Historic Landmark by the Department of the Interior and has been designated by the Commonwealth of Virginia as a Virginia Landmark.
    The Marshall House has been an integral part of the Leesburg community for over two centuries. General Marshall and his wife Katherine purchased the property in 1941 as a weekend retreat house, and regularly spent time at the property throughout General Marshall’s tenure as Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense. While residing there, he received world dignitaries including President Truman and Madam Chiang Kai-shek
    In 2005, Dodona Manor opened as a historic house museum and hosts international exchanges, historical exhibits, community events, and educational programming about the life and legacy of the Marshall family.
    The legislation was passed by the U.S. Senate in December 2024, but did not pass the U.S. House before the end of the 118th Congress and therefore must be reintroduced.
    Full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Kennedy, Moran Champion Bill to Protect Veterans’ Second Amendment Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), John Kennedy (R-LA) and Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act to ensure veterans do not lose their Second Amendment right to purchase or own firearms when they receive help managing their Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits.

    Because of the VA’s interpretation of current law, the VA sends a beneficiary’s name to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) whenever a fiduciary is appointed to help a beneficiary manage his or her VA benefit payments. The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act would prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from transmitting a veteran’s personal information to NICS unless a relevant judicial authority rules that the beneficiary is a danger to himself or others.

    “Veterans must not be required to forfeit the Second Amendment without a careful, constitutional process. Attempting to deprive former servicemembers of firearms for protection or recreation simply because they require assistance managing the benefits they have earned is bureaucracy at its worst. Our legislation would correct this injustice and preserve these law-abiding patriots’ rights,” said Boozman.

    “Our veterans should not receive less due process rights than other Americans just because they served our country and asked the federal government for a helping hand. Under the VA’s interpretation of the law, however, unelected bureaucrats punish Louisiana and America’s veterans by forcing them to choose between their Second Amendment rights and getting the help they need as they manage their financial affairs. I’m proud to introduce the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act to stand up for veterans’ constitutional rights by ending this unfair practice,” said Kennedy.

    “Veterans should never be forced to choose between receiving assistance from VA to manage their benefits and their fundamental Second Amendment rights. Our nation should be encouraging veterans to utilize VA services, not discouraging them by denying them due process. The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act makes certain that the rights of those who have served are protected, and that veterans are not penalized for receiving support that they have earned and deserve,” said Moran.

    The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Steve Daines (R-MT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Jim Banks (R-IN), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT). 

    Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL-12), Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act is endorsed by the Vietnam Veterans of America, National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, Black Veterans Empowerment Council, Military Order of the Purple Heart, National Shooting Sports Foundation, National Rifle Association, Gun Owners of America, AMAC Action, Turning Point Action, Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, National Disability Rights Network and the National Association for Gun Rights.

    Click here for full text of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Valentine’s Day: the economic value of romantic tradition

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sameer Hosany, Professor of Marketing, Royal Holloway University of London

    Evgeny Karandaev/Shutterstock

    We may never know if St Valentine, a martyr beheaded for officiating the forbidden weddings of persecuted Christians, was keen on chocolate and flowers. But we do know that millions of people around the world will be using those very items to celebrate his name on February 14.

    In the UK, it is estimated that 60% of the population will celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, each spending around £52 on gifts and other romantic gestures. The total spend in the US will be about US$27 billion (£22 bilion), including roughly $US500 million on roses.

    So the tradition of spending money on your romantic partner on February 14 seems fairly well established. But it is hard to know exactly when the link began.

    Up until the late 14th century, Valentine’s Day was solely a commemoration of his martyrdom. The shift toward an association with romantic love emerged in the Middle Ages, and is often attributed to the poet Geoffrey Chaucer, who linked Valentine’s Day to romance in his poem Parliament of Fowls.

    But it was the 19th century industrial revolution which brought about the mass production of romantic gifts. Cadbury was the first chocolate maker to commercialise the association between romance and confectionery by producing heart-shaped boxes of chocolates for Valentine’s Day in 1868. These boxes were decorated with images of Cupid, roses and hearts, and would sometimes be kept to store romantic letters and mementos.

    And while Hallmark did not invent the occasion, it played a big part in bolstering its popularity by selling Valentine’s Day postcards in 1910, and then printing its own greetings cards from 1916.

    Now in the US, around 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged each year, making it the second largest annual occasion for card giving (after Christmas).

    But it’s not just car sellers, florists and chocolate-makers who seek to benefit from the commercial opportunities Valentine’s Day provides. This year for example, IKEA has partnered with a dating app to give nine British couples a “once-in-a-lifetime” first date in an Ikea store, where they will share a meatball dinner for two in bed.

    Lego has launched a travelling campaign in major cities around the world to show off its floral designs, and Coca-Cola has teamed up with a fast-food brand to create a Valentine-themed drive-thru experience.

    Chocolate and marshmallows

    These kinds of one-off marketing campaigns are only possible thanks to a long history of Valentine’s traditions, which vary around the world.

    In Japan for example, it is a two-part celebration. On February 14, women often give “Giri-choco” (“obligation chocolate”) to friends and colleagues, while “home-choco” (“true-feeling chocolate”) is reserved for romantic partners. On March 14, known as White Day, men reciprocate by giving jewellery and less-expensive gifts that are white (marshmallows are a popular choice).

    Celebrations in South Korea are similar to those in Japan, but with the addition of Black Day on April 14 when single people gather at restaurants to eat black noodles (jajangmyeon). In the Philippines, Valentine’s Day is marked by mass weddings organised by the government.

    In Finland and Estonia, Valentine’s Day is known as “Friend’s Day” with the focus on celebrating non-romantic love and friendship. A similar idea, “Galentine’s Day”, which featured in a 2010 episode of the US sitcom Parks and Recreation, has become a popular way of celebrating female friendship.

    Love for sale

    Of course, not all consumers enjoy Valentine’s Day rituals. For many, there is pressure attached to romantic shopping, while for others it is just an unwelcome reminder of their single status.

    It can also bring social pressure, and lead to feelings of obligation and self-loathing.

    But there is a market for that too. Anti-Valentine’s day sentiment has inspired other ways to (not) celebrate, including a box of chocolates aimed at single people.

    And it can be a very valuable day for businesses, large and small. With high levels of participation and spending, Valentine’s Day brings a major surge in revenue for sectors including retail, hospitality and entertainment.

    So although it might not sound very romantic, it’s worth remembering that while money can’t buy you love, love can provide a significant boost to the economy.

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

    – ref. Valentine’s Day: the economic value of romantic tradition – https://theconversation.com/valentines-day-the-economic-value-of-romantic-tradition-248594

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –