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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ19: Lifesaving services at swimming pools

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ19: Lifesaving services at swimming pools
    LCQ19: Lifesaving services at swimming pools
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         Following is a question by the Hon Kenneth Fok and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (February 12): Question:      It is learnt that the Leisure and Cultural Services Department has installed artificial intelligence (AI) drowning detection systems developed by the University of Hong Kong and France at the Kwun Tong Swimming Pool and the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park Swimming Pool respectively to help strengthen lifesaving services at public swimming pools. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: (1) whether the Government has examined the manpower and financial expenditure (including acquisition costs, installation costs and system maintenance fees) involved since the commissioning of the aforesaid two AI systems and reviewed their effectiveness; if so, of the details; if not, whether it will expeditiously commence the relevant work before the summer swimming season; (2) whether the Government has assessed and compared the actual operation of the aforesaid two systems, including their effectiveness, accuracy, ease of operation and interface with lifeguards and lifesaving mechanisms at swimming pools, with a view to providing a reference point for the retrofitting of such systems at more public swimming pools in the future; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and (3) given that according to a report released by the Office of The Ombudsman in March last year on its direct investigation into the regulation of licensed swimming pools by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), the FEHD has not put in place an accident notification mechanism for licensed swimming pools, whether the Government will consider mandating private swimming pools to install AI drowning detection systems and establish a real-time notification mechanism to ensure that the FEHD and the relevant government departments can be expeditiously informed of drowning incidents, thereby enhancing regulatory efforts on private swimming pools; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that? Reply: President,      Having consulted relevant government departments, my reply to the questions raised by the Hon Kenneth Fok is as follows: (1) The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) has all along prioritised the safety of swimmers in both the facilities as well as the operation of its venues. Apart from providing sufficient lifeguards, the LCSD has put on trial two different sets of artificial intelligence (AI) drowning detection systems at Kwun Tong Swimming Pool and Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park Swimming Pool respectively to assist lifeguards in monitoring the real-time condition of swimmers and locating drowning victims promptly with a view to further strengthening life-saving services.      The AI drowning detection system developed by the University of Hong Kong Sport AI Laboratory has been on trial at the outdoor secondary pool of Kwun Tong Swimming Pool since August 2023. Through AI detection technology, the system analyses the videos and images captured by cameras installed underwater and calculates the drowning probability of swimmers. If suspected drowning is detected, the system will alert the lifeguards to carry out a rescue. The system was developed with a grant of around $900,000 by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau. The LCSD has subsequently installed additional sets of underwater detection devices and upgraded the existing sets of underwater cameras in the secondary pool. The project cost was around $700,000, with an estimated annual expenditure on system maintenance of around $130,000.           The AI drowning detection system developed by a French company was installed at the indoor main pool and training pool of Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park Swimming Pool in September 2024. The system uses cameras installed above the pools to capture images and performs comprehensive tracking and analysis of swimmers’ motions. If a swimmer is found to remain stationary for over 10 seconds, the system will consider it a case of suspected drowning, trigger the alarm and display the drowning location for lifeguards to carry out a rescue. Relevant installation cost of the system was about $7.9 million, with an annual maintenance cost of approximately $1.1 million. In addition, equipment and devices of the system require a comprehensive inspection every three years to ensure its stability and safety. The estimated cost of such inspection is around $500,000. (2) At present, the two detection systems mentioned above are still in trial phase. The LCSD needs to adjust the systems from time to time based on the actual environment and usage, and observe the operation of the systems in different seasons so as to ensure the stability and reliability of the data collected. Hence, a comprehensive set of data for assessment has yet to be available. Upon completion of tests and data analyses in different seasons, the LCSD will review and compare the cost-effectiveness of the two systems before deciding whether to extend the application of the systems to other public swimming pools. (3) To strengthen the regulation of licensed swimming pools, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has, in response to the recommendations of the Office of the Ombudsman, established a notification mechanism for fatal drowning cases in licensed swimming pools. In May 2024, the FEHD issued a letter to swimming pool licensees imposing new licensing conditions which require the reporting of cases involving casualties within a prescribed period. The FEHD officers will conduct site inspections for fatal drowning cases to ascertain whether the swimming pools concerned have provided sufficient life-saving attendants and appropriate life-saving equipment as required by the law and the licensing conditions. The FEHD will also examine the relevant cases and require the licensed swimming pools to take additional measures to further protect the safety of swimmers as necessary.      The FEHD and the LCSD share experience and exchange information from time to time on the regulation and management of swimming pools, including the application of technology to enhance swimmers’ safety. As the AI drowning detection system is still in the trial stage, the FEHD will maintain contact with the LCSD to understand the application of the system.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 12, 2025Issued at HKT 11:15

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Defence Secretary meets multiple defence delegations at Aero India 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 8:00AM by PIB Delhi

    Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh held a number of bilateral meetings on the sidelines of Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru on February 11, 2025. He held discussions with the Mozambican Defence Secretary Mr Casimiro Augusto Mueio; Secretary, Ministry of Defence of Sri Lanka Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Sampath Thuyacontha; Permanent Secretary of Defence, Suriname Mr Jayantkumar Bidesie; State Secretary of Mongolia Brigadier General Gankhayug Degvadorj; Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Nepal Mr Rameshwor Dangal; Permanent Secretary, Mauritius Mr Devendre Gopaul and Permanent Secretary, Democratic Republic of Congo Major General Lukwikila Metikwiza Marcel.

    The meetings focused on reviewing the ongoing defence cooperation and exploring ways to enhance the ties. In particular, the discussions centred on enhancing defence industrial cooperation. Later, the Defence Secretary also met Director of the International Directorate of the Directorate General of Armament, France Lt Gen Gael Diaz de Tuesta to discuss various joint projects and defence industrial cooperation.

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    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2102070) Visitor Counter : 75

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mahakumbh 2025: 10-15 Tons of Trash removed daily by Trash Skimmer from Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 10:33PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prayagraj Municipal Corporation is actively working to realize Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Swachh Bharat, and keep the Triveni Sangam clean and pure. For this, trash skimmer machines have been installed, which remove 10 to 15 tons of waste daily from the Ganga and Yamuna rivers.

    The preparations for the world’s largest event, the Mahakumbh, began nearly four years ago when the trash skimmer machine was installed. Initially, this machine removed 50-60 quintals of waste daily. After observing its effectiveness, the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation bought another machine about two years ago, which doubled the pace of cleaning the rivers.

    Machine Capacity: 13 Cubic Meters

    The machines cleaning both rivers have a capacity of 13 cubic meters and cover a 4 km area in the river, from the Sangam to the boat club and beyond. These machines collect floating flowers, garlands, paper plates, incense wrappers, plastic, coconuts, clothes, etc., from the surface.

    Disposal of Waste at a Single Location

    Municipal Corporation officials state that the waste collected by the machines is disposed off at a designated spot near Naini. From there, it is transported daily by trucks to a plant located in Baswar, where the waste is separated into coconuts, plastic, and other materials. The plastic is sent for recycling, while other usable materials are turned into compost.

    What is a Trash Skimmer Machine?

    – A trash skimmer is used to collect floating waste from the surface of the water. This machine is employed to clean rivers, ports, and seas.

    – It collects plastic, bottles, religious waste, clothes, metal items, offerings, dead animals and birds, etc.

    – It also helps in removing water weeds (water hyacinth).

    How Does a Trash Skimmer Work?

    – The machine has gates on both sides, with conveyor belts inside them. These gates hydraulically close to trap the waste. Once collected, the waste is transferred onto the conveyor belt.

    – From there, it moves to an unloading conveyor belt, where it is disposed of.

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    AD/VM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ10: Sampled results of Pre-Secondary One Hong Kong Attainment Test

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chu Kwok-keung and a written reply by the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, in the Legislative Council today (February 12):
     
    Question:
     
         At present, the Government collects sampled results of the Pre-Secondary One Hong Kong Attainment Test (Pre-S1 HKAT) biennially in even-numbered years as the scaling tool in the Secondary School Places Allocation (SSPA) System to scale the internal assessment results of the coming cohorts of Primary Six students proceeding to Secondary One (S1). However, in light of the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic, the Government cancelled the sampling arrangements for the Pre-‍S1 HKAT 2020 and 2022, which were not resumed until 2024. As a result, the SSPA System 2023/2025 Cycle (SSPA 2023/2025) can only use the average of the sampled results collected in 2018 and 2024 as the scaling tool. There are views that the aforesaid two sets of sampled results, collected six years apart, cannot objectively and effectively reflect the actual performance of primary schools whose students are proceeding to S1 under SSPA 2023/2025, thus affecting the proportions of the students’ allocation bands. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it will consider adjusting the arrangements for the use of sampled results under SSPA 2023/2025 as appropriate, including adjusting upwards the weighting of the sampled results collected in 2024; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (2) whether it will consider reviewing in the long run the arrangements for the use of sampled results under the SSPA System, and adjusting the calculation of sampled results based on the principle of giving more weight to recent results than to more distant results; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In order to compare the academic performance of students from different primary schools more objectively and fairly, a scaling mechanism is set up under the Secondary School Places Allocation (SSPA) System to measure and adjust students’ internal assessments of all primary schools participating in the SSPA for the purpose of determining students’ allocation bands. The Government has adopted the Pre-Secondary One Hong Kong Attainment Test (Pre-S1 HKAT) as the scaling tool with effect from SSPA 2005/2007 cycle, so as to reduce the incentive for drilling and alleviate students’ pressure.
     
         Our reply to the question raised by the Hon Chu Kwok-keung is as follows:
     
         The past data on the Pre-S1 HKAT demonstrate that test results between two adjacent cohorts of the same school are generally stable and could effectively and reliably reflect the overall performance of a school without the need to collect samples every year. Therefore, under the prevailing SSPA mechanism, samples of the Pre-S1 HKAT are collected by the Education Bureau (EDB) biennially and the average of the two recently sampled results is used as the scaling tool.
     
         Owing to the COVID-19 epidemic, the EDB cancelled the sampling arrangements for the Pre-S1 HKAT 2020 and 2022 after consultation with the school sector and announced the details to schools. After the epidemic, the sampling arrangement for the Pre-S1 HKAT 2024 has resumed, hence the sampled results of the Pre-S1 HKAT in the two most recent sampling years (i.e. 2018 and 2024) will be used as the scaling tool for SSPA 2025 and 2026. As for SSPA 2027 and 2028, reinstating the pre-epidemic scaling arrangements, the sampled results in 2024 and 2026 will be used as the scaling tool. It is evident that the time gap in sampling before the Pre-S1 HKAT 2024 is only transient due to the epidemic. The existing arrangements are objective, fair, proven effective, and in line with the aim of minimising the examination pressure of students. The school sector is well aware of the transient situation, and schools’ overall performance between two adjacent cohorts was generally stable. Having considered the above factors, the EDB currently has no plan to change the arrangements.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English Translation of Prime Minister’s remarks at the India-France CEO Forum, Paris

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 11:59PM by PIB Delhi

    Your Excellency, President Macron,
    Industry leaders from India and France present here,
    Namaskar, Bonjour!

    I feel a wonderful energy, excitement and dynamism in this room. This isn’t just a normal business event.

    It is a confluence of the best business minds of India and France. The report of the CEO Forum that has just been presented is welcome.

    I see that all of you are moving ahead with the mantra of Innovate, Collaborate and Elevate. You are not just making boardroom connections. You all are also strengthening the Indo-French strategic partnership.

    Friends,

    It is a pleasure for me to join this forum with my friend President Macron. This is our sixth meeting in the last two years. Last year, President Macron was the Chief Guest at our Republic Day.

    This morning we had co-chaired the AI Action Summit together. I heartily congratulate President Macron for this successful summit.

    Friends,

    India and France are not just linked by democratic values. The foundation of our friendship is based on the spirit of deep trust, innovation, and public welfare.

    Our partnership is not limited to just two countries. We are cooperating together to address global problems and challenges. During my last visit, we had outlined the 2047 roadmap for our partnership. Following that, we are pursuing cooperation in a comprehensive manner in every field.

    Friends,

    Most of your companies are already present in India. You are active in different areas like aerospace, ports, defence, electronics, dairy, chemicals and consumer goods.

    I have had the opportunity to meet many CEOs in India as well. You are well aware of the changes that have taken place in India in the last decade. We have established a stable polity, and predictable policy ecosystem.

    Following the path of reform, perform, and transform, today India is the fifth largest economy in the world. It is the fastest growing major economy in the world.

    It will soon become the world’s third largest economy. India’s skilled young talent factory and innovation spirit are our identity on the global stage.

    Today, India is fast becoming a preferred global investment destination.

    We have launched AI, semiconductor and quantum missions in India. In defence, we are promoting Make in India and Make for the World. Many of you are associated with it. We are scaling new heights in space technology. This sector has been opened up for FDI. We are rapidly making India a global biotech powerhouse.

    Infrastructure development is a matter of priority for us. And on this, we are doing public expenditure of more than $114 billion a year. We have laid railway tracks on a massive scale, using technology to modernize and upgrade the railways.

    We are fast moving towards the target of 500 Gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030. For this, we have promoted solar cell manufacturing. We have also launched the Critical Mineral Mission.

    We have also taken up the Hydrogen Mission. For this, electrolyser manufacturing is being emphasized. By 2047, we are aiming for 100 gigawatts of nuclear power. I am happy to share that this sector is being opened up to the private sector. We are focusing on SMR and AMR technologies.

    Friends,

    Today India is becoming the biggest center of diversification and de-risking. A few days ago, a new generation of reforms were outlined in our budget.

    New steps have been taken for ease of doing business. In the last few years, we have rationalized more than 40,000 compliances. To promote trust-based economic governance, a high level committee for regulatory reforms has been formed. The custom rate structure has been rationalised.

    To facilitate international trade, “India Trade Net” is being introduced with the help of digital public infrastructure. We are bringing a new simplified income tax code towards Ease of Living.

    The National Manufacturing Mission has been announced. And, new sectors, such as the insurance sector, have been opened for 100 percent FDI. You must study all these initiatives carefully.

    Let me tell you all, this is the right time to come to India. Everyone’s progress is linked to India’s progress. An example of this was seen in the aviation sector, when Indian companies placed large orders for airplanes. And, now, when we are going to open 120 new airports, you can imagine the future possibilities for yourselves.

    Friends,

    The 1.4 billion people of India have resolved to build a developed India by 2047. Be it defence or advanced technology, fintech or pharma, tech or textile, agriculture or aviation, healthcare or highways, space or sustainable development. There are many opputunities for investments and collaborations in all these areas for all of you.

    I welcome you all to join India’s development journey.

    When France’s finesse and India’s scale meet…

    When India’s pace and France’s precision join…

    When France’s technology and India’s talent unite…

    Then, not just business landscape, but global transformation will happen.

    Once again, I thank you all very much for taking your precious time to come here.

    DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mahakumbh 2025: Extra Arrangements in place to transport Pilgrims to Mahakumbh on Magh Purnima

    Source: Government of India

    Mahakumbh 2025: Extra Arrangements in place to transport Pilgrims to Mahakumbh on Magh Purnima

    1200 additional buses reserved for return journey, with buses available every 10 minutes for rural areas

    750 shuttle buses prepared to take pilgrims to nearby locations from temporary bus stations, with frequency of  two minutes

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 10:26PM by PIB Delhi

    Prayagraj is experiencing a large influx of pilgrims and tourists into the Mahakumbh for the Magh Purnima bath. UP Roadways has made extensive preparations to facilitate this movement of people. In addition to the reserved buses, a fleet of shuttle buses is also ready to facilitate connectivity.

    1200 Reserved Roadways Buses for Pilgrims’ Return Journey, Available Every 10 Minutes 

    By the evening of February 11, 45 crore people had already bathed at the Triveni confluence during the Magh Purnima festival. The state government is working diligently to ensure that they return to their destinations in a safe and organized manner. Uttar Pradesh’s Minister of State for Transport, Shri Daya Shankar Singh, stated that for the successful handling of the main bathing festivals of Mahakumbh 2025, 1200 additional rural buses have been reserved. This will help ensure smooth transport, in addition to the already allocated 3050 buses for the Mahakumbh. These additional buses are specifically reserved for the Magh Purnima snan and the upcoming bathing festivals, ensuring that pilgrims face no inconvenience. Visitors arriving at the four temporary bus stations will find a Roadways bus available every 10 minutes.

    Shuttle Service for Mahakumbh Connectivity, every 2 Minutes

    With the massive number of pilgrims arriving for the Magh Purnima bath, temporary bus stations have been set up around the city, with Roadways buses stationed at each location. Additionally, 750 shuttle buses are ready to take pilgrims to nearby areas within the Mahakumbh zone. According to Roadways officials, these shuttles will operate every 2 minutes. Special arrangements have also been made to prevent overcrowding at the bus stations. The Transport Minister has instructed officials to ensure that pilgrims face no bus-related issues during the Amrit Snan and in the coming days.

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    AD/VM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 133 Ambulances, including 7 River and 1 Air Ambulance, deployed for Pilgrims on Magh Purnima

    Source: Government of India

    133 Ambulances, including 7 River and 1 Air Ambulance, deployed for Pilgrims on Magh Purnima

    43 Hospitals in Mahakumbh Nagar on High Alert, with high-tech arrangements for minor to major surgeries in every sector of the Mela

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 10:30PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government has made extensive preparations for the safety and health of the pilgrims, visiting the Mahakumbh at Prayagraj, for Magh Purnima. All hospitals in the Mahakumbh area, as well as in the city and district, will remain on high alert. Surveillance through water, land, and air will be in place to ensure the safety of pilgrims. Accordingly, 133 ambulances have been deployed to provide immediate relief in case of emergencies. This includes 125 ambulances, seven river ambulances, and one air ambulance specifically stationed.

    High-Tech Medical Services in every Sector of Mahakumbh

    State-of-the-art medical services are available in each sector of the Mahakumbh area. The facilities range from minor operations to major surgeries. Dr. Gaurav Dubey, the nodal medical officer of the Mahakumbh Mela, stated that the government’s emergency services, especially ambulance services, play a critical role. Over 2,000 medical staff will be deployed in the Mahakumbh area, and more than 700 medical personnel at SRN Hospital will remain on high alert.

    250 Beds Reserved at SRN, Blood Bank Fully Prepared

    As per special instructions from the administration, 250 beds have been reserved at SRN Hospital. Additionally, 200 units of blood are stored to handle emergencies. All 43 hospitals in Mahakumbh Nagar with a 500-bed capacity are fully operational.

    Hospitals Equipped with Modern Facilities

    Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital has reserved 40 beds for the trauma center, 50 beds for the surgical ICU, 50 beds for the medicine ward, 50 beds for the PMSSY ward, and 40 beds for the burn unit. In addition, a 10-bed cardiology ward and a 10-bed ICU are also fully prepared.

    Special Focus on Medical Supervision and Cleanliness 

    To ensure smooth medical services, 30 senior doctors have been specially assigned, along with 180 resident doctors and over 500 nursing and paramedical staff. The hospital administration has instructed housekeeping agencies to ensure no negligence in cleanliness.

    Administration’s Commitment to Health Services

    Dr. Vatsala Mishra, Principal of Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital, mentioned that all arrangements have been made to handle any emergency during the Magh Purnima bath. She appealed to the pilgrims to contact the hospital immediately in case of any health issues, assuring them of free and high-quality medical services.

    Deployment of Expert Doctors, 24-Hour Medical Service Available

    Along with 150 medical personnel from the AYUSH department, 30 expert doctors will be deployed to serve the pilgrims. Experts from AIIMS Delhi and BHU will also remain on alert.

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    AD/VM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya to Inaugurate First-Ever Regional Dialogue on Global Coalition for Social Justice in New Delhi on 24-25 Feb 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya to Inaugurate First-Ever Regional Dialogue on Global Coalition for Social Justice in New Delhi on 24-25 Feb 2025

    Hosted by Ministry of Labour & Employment in collaboration with CII-EFI

    Coalition Theme is Responsible Businesses for Inclusive and Sustainable Societies

    Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to Deliver Keynote Address

    80+ Coalition partners from Asia Pacific region and beyond, including representatives from Governments, Employers’ and Workers’ Organizations, International Agencies, Research and Academic Institutions, International NGOs and Enterprises to Attend

    Participating Ministries include Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 5:41PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India, in collaboration with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)-Employers’ Federation of India (EFI), is set to host the first-ever Regional Dialogue on Social Justice on 24-25 February 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This landmark event is a significant contribution to the Global Coalition for Social Justice.

    Launched by ILO in 2023, the Coalition is a platform for governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations, international and regional organizations, financial institutions and development banks, enterprises, international non-governmental organizations and academia committed to advancing social justice and engaging in collaborative efforts to achieve shared objectives. The Coalition leverages collaboration among partners to amplify the unique strengths of each participant, comprehensively and coherently addressing social justice challenges.

    As a member of the Asia Pacific Coordinating Group, India is spearheading the first ‘Regional Dialogue’ under the Global Coalition for Social Justice and championing the key intervention “Responsible Businesses for Inclusive and Sustainable Societies” under the Coalition’s thematic area of “Expanding access to and capabilities for Productive and freely chosen Employment and Sustainable Enterprises.”

    The Regional Dialogue will bring together over 80+ Coalition partners from the Asia Pacific region and beyond to explore innovative approaches, exchange best practices, and strengthen collaboration to advancing social justice in the region.

    Hon’ble Union Minister for Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje and Secretary (Labour& Employment), Ms. Sumita Dawra will grace the inaugural session of this regional dialogue. The event will feature Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO, as the keynote speaker.

    The event will also mark the 74th Foundation Day of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), celebrating its unwavering commitment to ensuring dignified healthcare and economic security for India’s workforce. The ESIC Foundation Day is an occasion to recognize the vital contribution of the organization in fostering social justice through the extension of comprehensive social security benefits for workers and their families in the formal sector. 

    Discussions will focus on critical dimensions of social justice, including responsible business conduct and social protection, aligning with the Coalition’s thematic priorities.

    The event will feature exchange of knowledge and experience sharing through technical discussions and coalition partner’s experiences. The deliberations would strengthen the joint collaboration among partners in the area of promoting social justice in the region.

    Key themes include:

    • Skills, Employment and Social Justice: Empowering Youth and Enterprises for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth
    • Social Protection to Social Justice: Ensuring No One is Left Behind
    • Responsible Businesses: Upholding Fair Working Conditions, Safety, and Health for Enhanced Productivity and Sustainability
    • Building a Bigger Table: Promoting Inclusion and Women’s Participation in the World of Work
    • Advancing Decent Work: Strengthening Corporate Governance and Sustainable Global Value Chains
    • Digitalization for Social Justice – Harnessing AI for Decent Work and Equity

    Key Stakeholders: The thematic dialogue will bring together Coalition partners and other key stakeholders, including representatives from governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations, international and/or regional organizations, research organizations, academia, international NGOs and enterprises.

    Event Highlights

    Day 1 | 24 February 2025

    The first day of the Regional Dialogue on Social Justice will commence with an Inaugural Session. Key highlights include the showcasing of Responsible Business Conduct by Indian employers’ organisation and international business chambers, a joint statement of workers and employers organisations on responsible business practices, and the launch of publications on social justice and social protection. Technical sessions will focus on skills and employment for youth, social protection for informal workers, and promoting women’s participation in the workforce, featuring insights from global partners and stakeholders.

    Day 2 | 25 February 2025
    The second day will delve into responsible business practices, emphasizing fair working conditions, occupational safety, and health, with contributions from the International Organizations and foreign business chambers. Discussions on sustainable global value chains will highlight the role of multinational enterprises in advancing decent work and ethical labour practices. The final session will explore digitalization and AI as tools for social justice, focusing on equitable access, worker rights, and aligning AI with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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    Himanshu Pathak

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES Young Filmmakers Challenge

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 5:33PM by PIB Delhi

    Igniting Creativity in the Next Generation

    Introduction

    The WAVES Young Filmmakers Challenge, organised by Whistling Woods International in partnership with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, offers an exciting platform for budding storytellers aged 12 to 19 to step into the world of filmmaking. Designed to spark creativity, enhance digital literacy, and refine storytelling skills, the challenge invites young creators to craft compelling 60-second films. As a key part of the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES), it encourages children and teens to explore their imagination and share their perspectives through short-form storytelling.

    WAVES, scheduled to take place from 1 to 4 May 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre and Jio World Gardens in Mumbai, will serve as a premier forum for discussions, collaboration, and innovation in the media and entertainment industry. The event will bring together industry leaders, stakeholders, and innovators to explore new opportunities, address challenges, and drive growth in India’s M&E sector.

    Central to WAVES is the Create in India Challenges, a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. With over 70,000 registrations and 31 challenges launched, this initiative has drawn creative minds from across the world. By fostering a thriving ecosystem of innovation, the challenges aim to position India as a global hub for media and entertainment.

    Key Objectives

     

    • Inspire Creativity: Provide a fun and supportive platform for young filmmakers to express their creativity and originality through film.

     

    • Promote Storytelling: Encourage participants to develop engaging and imaginative stories that resonate with young audiences.

     

    • Build Confidence: Empower children and teens by giving them the opportunity to showcase their talent on a global stage.

     

    • Celebrate Diversity: Highlight the diverse perspectives and narratives that young filmmakers bring to the screen.

     

    Judging Criteria

     

    Registration Guidelines

     

    Timelines of the Challenge

    • Will run from September 2024 to 15 February 2025.

     

    • The first round focuses on filmmaking, creativity, and teamwork.

     

    • Top 10 participants from each category will attend a two-day workshop with filmmaker Amole Gupte at Whistling Woods International, Mumbai, on 7 and 8 March 2025.

     

    • Shortlisted teams can reshoot their films and submit the final version by 15 April 2025.

     

    Awards and Recognition

    • Shortlisted films will be showcased at a dedicated WAVES session, where winners will be announced.

     

    • Winners in each age category will receive complimentary travel and stay at WAVES.

     

    • Winners will gain recognition, mentorship, scholarship opportunities, access to online filmmaking courses, and certificates of achievement.

     

    • All participants will receive feedback to support their growth as young filmmakers.

     

    References:

    Click here to see PDF:

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Saurabh Kalia

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government approves implementation of transportation component of Market Intervention Scheme for Tomato through NCCF

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 5:25PM by PIB Delhi

    In view of the falling prices of tomato in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and other major producing states, Government of India has taken decision to implement the transportation component of Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). Under this scheme where there is a difference in the price of TOP crops (tomato, onion and potato) between the producing and consuming States, the operational cost incurred in storage and transportation of crops from the producing State to other consuming States will be reimbursed to Central Nodal Agencies (CNA) like NAFED and NCCF, in the interest of farmers of producing states.

    Considering the steep drop in tomato prices, Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has approved implementation of transportation component of MIS for Tomato in Madhya Pradesh through NCCF. NCCF is making arrangements to start the transportation operations soon.

     

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    MG/KSR

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    Read this release in: Hindi

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr Jitendra Singh will preside over the 12th All India Pension Adalat to be held on 13th February, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Dr Jitendra Singh will preside over the 12th All India Pension Adalat to be held on 13th February, 2025

    Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) is conducting the 12th All India Pension Adalat with focus on resolution of long outstanding Pension Cases pending for more than 120 days in 16 Departments/Ministries

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare will conduct the 12thNation-wide Pension Adalat under the chairmanship of Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions at New Delhi on 13th February, 2025. The Adalat will be conducted in the presence of Shri V Srinivas, Secretary, DoPPW, Ms  Shankari Murali, Addl, CGA, Shri A N Das Addl CGDA, Ms Deepika Jain, CC (Pension), Shri Rokhum Lal Remruata, CCA (MHA) and Shri Dhrubajyoti Sengupta, JS (DoPPW). The cases which have been pending for more than 120 days for redressal shall be taken up in the Adalat. Senior officers and nodal officers from16 Departments will be participating in the Adalat.

    Redressal of pensioner’s Grievances is a high priority area for the Government. Keeping in view the mandate to ensure welfare of Central Government pensioners, Pension Adalats are organized by DOPPW. These Pension Adalats provide a single platform where the concerned stakeholders, viz., Ministries/Departments/CPAO/ Banks are brought together for on-the-spot resolution of long pending grievances, to the satisfaction of the petitioner. Pension Adalats also provide an additional forum for redressal of pension related grievances obviating the need to approach Courts for litigation.

    With a view to redress chronic grievances, the system of holding Pension Adalat has been introduced since September, 2017 when the first Pension Adalat was held.  Continuing this initiative forward, till December, 2024, eleven Pension Adalats, including thematic Pension Adalats have been organised.

    In all Pension Adalats across the country, 18,005 cases have been resolved with a success rate of more than 71 percent.

    The 12th Pension Adalat will focus on resolution of long outstanding Pension Cases. The Pension Adalat would be attended by 16 Ministries/Departments including Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Defence, CPAO, CBDT, Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Ministry of Railways amongst others. 180 cases pertaining to Ministries will be discussed.

    The Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare seeks to ensure empowerment of Central Government pensioners through such Pension Adalats, by speedy resolution of their grievances.

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    NKR/PSM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ATDC and SECL Sign MoU to Empower 400 Unemployed Youth from Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

    A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today between Apparel Training & Design Centre (ATDC), Gurugram, and South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a Bilaspur based CIL Subsidiary under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Coal, for a vocational training program aimed at uplifting under privileged youth from economically weaker sections of society. The agreement was signed in the  august presence of Ms. Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Coal and Ms. Santosh, DDG  Ministry of Coal at Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi. The Additional Secretary extended her congratulations to the SECL CSR team for taking proactive and forward-thinking steps in implementing the vocational training program with ATDC.

    The program, which is part of SECL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, is set to benefit 400 candidates, providing them with the skills needed for self-employment. A total of Rs. 3.12 Crore will be allocated for the initiative. Under this agreement, ATDC will establish training centers for 300 candidates in a non-residential self-employed tailor program across SECL Bishrampur, Sohagpur and Korba areas. Additionally, 100 candidates will undergo a fully residential program at the ATDC training center in Chhindwada, Madhya Pradesh, which will include free boarding and lodging. These candidates will be selected from within a 25-kilometer radius of SECL’s establishments.

    The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Shri Biranchi Das, Director (P), SECL; Shri Rakesh Vaid, Senior Vice Chairman, ATDC; Dr. Vijay Mathur, Director General and CEO, ATDC; Shri Alok Kumar, General Manager (Civil/CSR), SECL; along with officials from SECL and ATDC. Under the guidance of the Minister of Coal, this initiative strives to empower underprivileged youth in coalfield regions, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh inaugurates 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh inaugurates 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF)

    India has risen as the world’s second-largest fish producer under the Prime Minister’s visionary leadership: Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh

    Kisan Credit Card scheme extended to the fishers & fish farmers: Union Minister

    Research institutes should undertake capacity building initiative involving KVKs to improve the adoption of scientific practices by fishers and farmers: Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh

    Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh also inaugurates the 14AFAF Expo

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 5:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh inaugurated 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) at Pusa Campus in New Delhi today, marking a significant milestone in global fisheries and aquaculture. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted the Government of India’s commitment to sustainable fisheries.  He accentuated that India has risen as the world’s second-largest fish producer under the Prime Minister’s visionary leadership and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The Minister also emphasized that India is implementing cutting-edge digital solutions such as National Digital Fisheries Platform and vessel monitoring, transponders, and emergency alerts to ensure the safety of fishermen at sea. He also informed that the Kisan Credit Card scheme has been extended to the fishers and fish farmers and various insurance schemes to the fisheries’ sector were also introduced. He further applauded the ICAR for its technological offerings, recognizing its contributions in the fisheries development in the country. Further he stressed that the research institutes should undertake capacity building initiative involving KVKs to improve the adoption of scientific practices by fishers and farmers. He also inaugurated the 14AFAF expo, a major highlight, bringing together the stakeholders from state fisheries departments, academia, research institutions and the industry to showcase technological advancements.

     

    Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary, DARE, and DG, ICAR highlighted that 75 new fisheries technologies and improved fish varieties developed by ICAR, emphasizing ICAR’s commitment to sustainable, carbon-neutral fisheries and aquaculture for long-term industry resilience.

    Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, highlighted the Government’s transformative initiatives, substantial investments, and the vital role of startups in driving innovation for India’s blue economy.

    ‘Padma Shri’ Dr. S. Ayyappan, former Secretary, DARE, and DG, ICAR, highlighted India’s leadership in fisheries research and described 14AFAF as the Mahakumbh of fisheries researchers from Asia.

    Dr. Essam Yassin Mohammed, Director General, WorldFish, Malaysia, spoke on global innovations in fisheries and applauded India for its transformation initiatives in sustainable aquaculture.

    Prof. Neil Loneragan, President, Asian Fisheries Society, Kuala Lumpur, emphasized the significance of international collaboration in advancing the fisheries sector globally.

    Dr. J.K. Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries Science), ICAR, and Convener of 14AFAF, in his welcome address, stated that the forum will play a crucial role in shaping the future of fisheries and aquaculture. He highlighted that the event features over 20 lead presentations by renowned experts from India and abroad, with 1,000 participants from 24 countries.

    The session also saw the release of different publications & technologies by the dignitaries. The event was organized by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS), Kuala Lumpur, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the Department of Fisheries (DoF), Government of India, and the Asian Fisheries Society Indian Branch (AFSIB), Mangalore.

    Hosting the 14th AFAF in India after 15 years highlights the country’s growing prominence in global fisheries and aquaculture. With a rapidly expanding blue economy, progressive policies, and scientific advancements, India is emerging as a key player in sustainable fisheries. This forum serves as an opportunity to showcase India’s contributions, strengthen global partnerships and drive sustainable aquaculture initiatives for the future.

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    MG/KSR

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister and President of France jointly inaugurate the Consulate General of India in Marseille

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 4:58PM by PIB Delhi

    ​Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the President of the French Republic, H.E. Mr. Emmanuel Macron, today jointly inaugurated the newly opened Consulate General of India in Marseille.

    The inauguration of the Consulate General by Prime Minister and President Macron is a landmark in bilateral relations between India and France. The presence of President Macron at the inauguration was a special gesture and Prime Minister deeply appreciated it. At the Consulate, both the leaders were warmly welcomed by members of the Indian diaspora who had gathered to witness the historic occasion.

    The decision to open a Consulate General in Marseille was announced during Prime Minister’s visit to France in July 2023. The Consulate General will have consular jurisdiction over four French administrative regions in the South of France, namely – Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur, Corsica, Occitanie and Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes.

    This region of France is synonymous with trade, industry, energy and luxury tourism and has significant economic, cultural and people to people connections with India. The new Consulate General in the second most populous city in France would further strengthen the multi-faceted India-France Strategic Partnership.

     

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    MJPS/SR

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister and President of France visit the Mazargues War Cemetery

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 4:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron visited the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseille this morning and paid tribute to the Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World Wars I and II. Both leaders laid wreaths to honour the sacrifices of the fallen.

    The Mazargues War Cemetery preserves the history of valor and sacrifice of Indian soldiers who fought for peace in Europe. Their saga continues to inspire many. The Cemetery commemorates the deep people-to-people links that continue to nurture India-France ties.

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2102330) Visitor Counter : 68

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister and President of France jointly visit ITER facility

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 5:00PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the President of France, H.E. Mr. Emmanuel Macron, jointly visited the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor [ITER] in Cadarache earlier today. The leaders were welcomed by Director General, ITER. This was the first visit by any Head of State or Head of Government to ITER – one of the most ambitious fusion energy projects in the world today.

    During the visit, the leaders appreciated the progress of ITER, including the assembly of the world’s largest Tokamak, where ultimately 500 MW of fusion power will be produced by creating, containing and controlling burning plasma. The leaders also appreciated the dedication of the ITER engineers and scientists working on the project.

    India is among the seven ITER members contributing to the project over the last two decades. Around 200 Indian scientists and associates, as well as notable industry players such as L&T, Inox India, TCS, TCE, HCL Technologies, among others, are engaged in the ITER project.

     

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    MJPS/SR

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Developing educational tours

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ6: Developing educational tours
    LCQ6: Developing educational tours
    **********************************

         ​Following is a question by the Hon Tang Fei and a reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (February 12):      There are views that educational tours, which integrate education with tourism, will not only enhance travel experiences, but also promote cultural exchanges and knowledge dissemination, thereby driving the growth of the local tourism, catering, accommodation and related industries and further stimulating the economic development of Hong Kong. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: (1) whether it has plans to make dedicated efforts to promote educational tours by bringing together Hong Kong’s historical and cultural resources, technology and innovative facilities as well as renowned academic institutions to attract student groups from the Mainland and overseas to Hong Kong to conduct study exchanges; if so, of the specific targets, promotion strategies and expected benefits; if not, the reasons for that, and whether it will formulate relevant plans in the future; (2) whether it will consider launching dedicated educational tour itineraries targeting different age groups and catering for different needs, such as innovation and technology itineraries focusing on visits to universities and scientific research institutions, cultural exploration itineraries featuring tours around museums and historic buildings, ecological experience itineraries on nature education and red itineraries on patriotism education; if so, of the specific plans; if not, the reasons for that; and (3) whether it has considered collaborating with local enterprises to introduce supporting services and concessionary measures specifically for educational tours; if so, of the specific plans; if not, the reasons for that? Reply:  President,      In respect of the question raised by the Hon Tang Fei, the reply is as follows:           The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) promulgated the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 (Blueprint 2.0) on December 30,2024, setting out four major development strategies covering four areas of work including product development, expanding visitor source markets, technology innovation and enhancing services. In terms of expansion of visitor source, Blueprint 2.0 proposes to examine the travel needs of silver-haired, family, study tour and youth visitor segments in detail. The CSTB, together with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), will promote the development of inbound study tours to Hong Kong through three areas, namely product development, enhancing promotion and upgrading support services.      In terms of product development, Hong Kong has world-class resources in the areas of culture, sports and ecology, etc., which are suitable for integration into study tours. Through exploring and consolidating resources, the CSTB and the HKTB will encourage the trade to develop more study tour itineraries and products with Hong Kong characteristics so as to satisfy the needs of students and parents of different age groups and learning needs.           An example of resource exploration is that the Ocean Park Corporation (the Park) has become the only entity outside the Mainland to be successfully certified by the Guangdong Study Travel Association and the Education Bureau of Guangzhou Municipality as a “Study Tour Base in Guangdong Province” and the “Fourth Batch of Study Tours Base for Primary and Secondary School Students in Guangzhou” respectively last year. These achievements further solidified the Ocean Park’s leading role in the field of conservation and education (C&E) in the region and enhanced Hong Kong’s appeal as a destination for study tours. We will continue to facilitate the Ocean Park to organise familiarisation tours and seminars for educational institutions in the Mainland as well as participate in exchange activities in the Mainland and overseas with a view to further promoting the Park’s C&E programmes and activities. Currently, the Ocean Park is actively exchanging views with study tour organisations in various provinces/municipalities in the Mainland and Southeast Asia to explore the possibility of arranging their students to visit the Ocean Park for study tours.           As for the consolidation of resources, there are many landmarks and attractions suitable for study tours in various districts of Hong Kong, such as the Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage Centre, the Tai Kwun, the Hong Kong Sha Tau Kok Anti-war Memorial Hall and the Mai Po Nature Reserve. The HKTB has consolidated the relevant information and combined them into nine major tourism themes, namely Hong Kong’s Past and Present, Revitalisation and Conservation, Cultural Arts, Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage, Natural Ecology, Environmental Protection, Technological Development, Public Services and Red Tourism. The list of tourism resources has been distributed to trade representatives, offering Mainland and overseas inbound study tours with information and reference materials for a wide range of learning experiences and activities to facilitate planning for suitable itineraries and routes.           On enhancing promotion, the HKTB held an online briefing in August last year to introduce the relevant themes, landmarks and attractions for study tours to travel trade and related sectors in Hong Kong. Subsequently, the HKTB invited delegation of Mainland study tour travel agents and educational institutions to Hong Kong for a five-day familiarisation trip for meeting and exchange with Hong Kong travel trade partners and experience Hong Kong’s rich study tour resources, products and services first-hand, including visits to the Hong Kong Museum of the War of Resistance and Coastal Defence, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority Information Centre, the Police Museum, WEEE · PARK at Tuen Mun EcoPark, social enterprise restaurants and docent tours organised by the Mills, as well as participation in Hong Kong’s traditional dim sum workshops.           In future, the HKTB will continue to actively develop study tour market segment and promote Hong Kong tourism targeting the youth and study tour groups in the Mainland and overseas markets, including organising briefings for trade and inviting representatives of relevant groups and organisations from overseas and the Mainland to visit Hong Kong, with a view to deepening their understanding of Hong Kong’s resources for developing study tours.           In terms of enhancement of supporting facilities, it is very important to ensure the product quality and service standard, as well as to improve the management system as study tour is targeted at the youth segment. In this regard, Blueprint 2.0 proposed holistically a series of measures to enhance the service quality and standard of supporting facilities of the tourism industry. Based on the operational characteristics of study tours, the CSTB will examine whether the supporting facilities, such as accommodation and tourist guides, could meet the development needs of the industry and reach out to organisations with potential to develop into study tour destinations, so as to comprehensively enhance Hong Kong’s ability in exploring the source markets for study tours.           Thank you, President.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 12, 2025Issued at HKT 15:10

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SAIL declares financial results for Q3 and 9M FY’25

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 12 FEB 2025 12:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has declared its financial results today for the quarter and nine month ending 31st December, 2024.

    Key highlights:

    Performance of Q3 FY 25 (Standalone) at a glance:

    Unit

    Q3 23-24

    Q2 24-25

    Q3 24-25

    Crude Steel Production

    Million Tonne

    4.75

    4.78

    4.63

    Sales Volume

    Million Tonne

    3.81

    4.10

    4.43

    Revenue from Operations

    Rs. Crore

    23,345

    24,675

    24,490

    Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA)

    Rs. Crore

    2,319

    3,174

    2,389

    Profit Before Exceptional Items and Tax

    Rs. Crore

    384

    1,113

    289

    Exceptional Items

    Rs. Crore

    76

    0

    29

    Profit Before Tax (PBT)

    Rs. Crore

    461

    1,113

    318

    Profit After Tax (PAT)

    Rs. Crore

    331

    834

    126

     

    Performance of 9M FY 25 (Standalone) at a glance:

    Unit

    9M 23-24

    9M 24-25

    Crude Steel Production

    Million Tonne

    14.22

    14.08

    Sales Volume

    Million Tonne

    12.46

    12.54

    Revenue from Operations

    Rs. Crore

    77,417

    73,162

    Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA)

    Rs. Crore

    8,451

    7,983

    Profit Before Exceptional Items and Tax

    Rs. Crore

    2,698

    1,728

    Exceptional Items

    Rs. Crore

    (339)

    (283)

    Profit Before Tax (PBT)

    Rs. Crore

    2,359

    1,445

    Profit After Tax (PAT)

    Rs. Crore

    1,722

    970

    SAIL’s revenue from operations and sales volume increased during the third quarter of the current financial year, along with a slight improvement in EBITDA compared to the corresponding period last year.

    Commenting on the financial results, Chairman SAIL, Shri Amarendu Prakash said, “In the face of a challenging steel market characterized by declining prices and an influx of cheap imports, SAIL has managed to achieve better EBITDA during the Q3FY25 compared to the corresponding period last year. We remain steadfast in our commitment to boost production and enhance cost efficiency, while simultaneously further explore and adopt greener technologies. We expect that with appropriate interventions, the issue of cheap imports will be addressed and government’s drive on infrastructure development will bode well for the domestic steel industry while driving the demand further”.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ9: COVID-19 oral drugs

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Judy Chan and a written reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (February 12):Question:     In 2022, in consultation with experts, the Government introduced the COVID-19 oral drugs Paxlovid and Molnupiravir through the Hospital Authority (HA), and prescribed the two drugs to suitable patients through various channels such as public hospitals, designated clinics and residential care homes for the elderly. The Government has indicated that the fee for each course of treatment in respect of the two drugs is over $6,000. There are views that the fees for the two drugs are excessively high, and the Government should expeditiously introduce other less expensive drugs with similar efficacy. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:(1) of the details of the vetting and approval process for introducing the two drugs by the Government in consultation with experts at that time, and whether such vetting and approval process was different from the general approval process for introducing new drugs; if so, of the reasons for and details of that;(2) of the current clinical guidelines for prescribing the two drugs, and the number of revisions made in the past;(3) whether it knows the following information on the use of each of the two drugs by HA in each of the past three years: (i) the quantity purchased and expenditure incurred, (ii) the quantity used (with a breakdown by the channels through which they were used), and (iii) the quantity discarded due to expiry or other reasons;(4) whether there has been any change to the approved shelf life of the two drugs since their introduction, and of the current respective shelf life; whether it knows the respective stock of the two drugs currently kept by HA; and(5) whether the authorities have plans to introduce other drugs with efficacy similar to that of the two drugs; if so, of the progress and timetable; if not, the reasons for that?Reply:President,     With the ever evolvement of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the prevention and treatment capacities of the local healthcare system and the handling capacity of society as a whole have been enhanced significantly. COVID-19 has been managed as an upper respiratory tract illness by the Government since early 2023. Despite this, the World Health Organization still highlights the importance of ensuring access to appropriate treatments for patients with COVID-19, including providing oral antiviral drugs to high-risk patients on a need basis taking the local situation into account. High-risk persons concerned include the elderly, immunocompromised individuals or persons with chronic illnesses.     The Health Bureau, together with the Department of Health (DH) and the Hospital Authority (HA), have been keeping abreast of the latest development of clinical treatment and scientific evidence-based research relating to SARS-CoV-2 virus, while making reference to the latest data from drug regulatory authorities and drug manufacturers globally so as to provide appropriate treatment for COVID-19 patients.     In consultation with the DH and the HA, the reply to the question raised by the Hon Judy Chan is as follows: (1) According to the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap. 138), pharmaceutical products must satisfy the criteria of safety, efficacy and quality for registration with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong (Board) before they can be sold or supplied in Hong Kong.      During the COVID-19 pandemic, the then Pharmacy and Poisons (Registration of Pharmaceutical Products and Substances: Certification of Clinical Trial/Medicinal Test) Committee (Committee) established under the Board considered that, in view of the public health emergency and the local medical need at the time, together with the relevant scientific evidence, the benefits of the use of COVID-19 oral antiviral drugs, namely Paxlovid and Molnupiravir, in the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 outweighed the risks and hence conditionally approved the applications of the relevant drugs for registration in February and March 2022 respectively. As part of the conditional approval of registration, the corresponding drug registration certificate holders were required to submit additional data through clinical studies and post-marketing report to the Board according to the conditions imposed by the Committee (including that the concerned products can only be supplied to doctors or medical institutions). The certificate holders of the drugs have been continuously providing relevant reports and data to substantiate their products’ safety, efficacy and quality. In this connection, Paxlovid was granted full registration in February 2024.(2) According to the existing mechanism, the expert panel formed by the DH and the HA closely monitors the efficacy and possible side-effects of the relevant drugs in light of the evolving scientific evidence, and also evaluates various drugs treating COVID-19 while reviewing and updating the clinical guidelines in a timely manner with reference to the latest clinical development and research data in the Mainland and overseas, with a view to providing patients with appropriate treatments to reduce their risk of severe complications and death.     Based on the above principle, the relevant clinical guidelines have been updated for 27 times so far. Under the current guidelines, healthcare professionals will consider prescribing relevant drugs to patients aged 70 or above, and patients aged below 70 with high-risk conditions or chronic diseases according to their clinical needs.(3) Apart from providing antiviral drugs for treating COVID-19 at public hospitals/clinics under the HA, the Government has been providing private doctors with the two aforementioned COVID-19 oral drugs procured by the HA for free prescription to eligible COVID-19 confirmed patients since April 2022. Private doctors who have registered under the Electronic Health Record Sharing System (eHRSS) can make requests for provision of the two COVID-19 oral drugs via the dedicated online platform. Private doctors must follow the aforementioned treatment guidelines set out by the HA. Besides, the DH’s clinic dispensaries also distributed a small amount of treatment courses.     From 2022 to 2024, the HA has prescribed the two COVID-19 oral drugs to about 471 300 HA patients (a single patient may be prescribed with COVID-19 oral antivirals for more than once), including about 314 600 patients prescribed with Paxlovid and about 156 700 with Molnupiravir. Separately, about 181 700 treatment courses were prescribed by private doctors to eligible COVID-19 confirmed patients for free, in which about 104 000 Paxlovid treatment courses and about 77 700 Molnupiravir treatment courses were prescribed. About 1 500 treatment courses were prescribed by clinics under the DH (including Families Clinics and Elderly Health Centres).     Detailed figures on the quantity and expenditure incurred by the HA in purchasing the two COVID-19 oral drugs are tabulated below: * Figures adjusted to the nearest thousands     Following the prevailing practice, the HA dispenses drugs before the expiration dates based on the “first-expired, first-out” principle. For those drugs requiring disposal, including unserviceable ones, the HA will dispose of them in accordance with the established procedures. There has not been any disposal of COVID-19 oral drugs so far.(4) The shelf-life of the two COVID-19 oral antiviral drugs, namely Paxlovid and Molnupiravir, are 24 and 30 months respectively. The HA has sufficient stock of drugs for prescription to COVID-19 patients, and will continue to closely monitor the supply and utilisation of the relevant drugs in order to cater for the needs of patients.(5) The DH and the HA will continue to keep in view the latest data from drug regulatory authorities and drug manufacturers globally (including the Mainland) and introduce suitable drugs in a timely manner based on the available scientific evidence to ensure that patients are prescribed with drugs of proven safety and efficacy.     Apart from Paxlovid and Molnupiravir, no other COVID-19 oral antivirals drugs are currently registered in Hong Kong. Based on the latest scientific evidence, there are no other COVID-19 oral antiviral drugs in the market that can provide the same level of appropriate treatment especially for high-risk patients.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pilot Scheme on Facilitation for Persons Participating in Arbitral Proceedings in Hong Kong to be regularised with refinements

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         With effect from March 1, 2025, the Government will regularise the Pilot Scheme on Facilitation for Persons Participating in Arbitral Proceedings in Hong Kong with refinements. Upon regularisation, the Scheme will be named the Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Persons Participating in Arbitral Proceedings in Hong Kong.
     
         Under the Pilot Scheme, relevant individuals are allowed to participate in arbitral proceedings in Hong Kong as visitors without the need to obtain an employment visa if they are in possession of a letter of proof (Letter) issued by a designated arbitral and dispute resolution institution or venue provider proving that they are eligible persons participating in arbitral proceedings in Hong Kong.
     
         As an international centre for legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region, Hong Kong is and has always been one of the most preferred seats and destinations of arbitration in the world. Catering for the needs of arbitrations taking place in Hong Kong, the Government launched the Pilot Scheme on June 29, 2020, to provide immigration facilitation for eligible visitors participating in arbitral proceedings in Hong Kong on a short-term basis. The arbitration community has been supportive of the Pilot Scheme since its launch, finding it conducive to maintaining Hong Kong’s competitiveness as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre. This is in line with the National 14th Five-Year Plan, the Belt and Road Initiative and the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. 
     
         After a review and having regard to feedback from the industry on the developing needs of parties in arbitrations, the Pilot Scheme will be regularised with the following refinements:
     
    (a) The scope of eligible persons will be expanded to five categories to include persons who are directly related to or involved in the arbitrations taking place in Hong Kong such as tribunal secretaries, tribunal-appointed experts. Upon such refinement, the Scheme will cover five categories of persons (Eligible Persons), namely, (i) arbitrators; (ii) expert and factual witnesses; (iii) counsel in the arbitration; (iv) parties to the arbitration; and (v) other persons directly related to or involved in the arbitration such as tribunal secretaries, tribunal-appointed experts. 

    (b) The Scheme will cover all arbitrations physically taking place in Hong Kong, including those in which parties opt to, as a matter of law, have the “seat of arbitration” elsewhere.

         After regularisation, persons who seek to benefit from the Scheme shall continue to, prior to their entry into Hong Kong, obtain the Letter confirming that they are Eligible Persons participating in arbitral proceedings in Hong Kong:
     
    (a) For arbitrations administered by an arbitral institution, the Letter shall be issued by one of those designated arbitral and dispute resolution institutions and permanent offices in Hong Kong, which satisfies the criteria set out under Article 2(1) of the “Arrangement Concerning Mutual Assistance in Court-ordered Interim Measures in Aid of Arbitral Proceedings by the Courts of the Mainland and of the HKSAR”. For details of the list of institutions and permanent offices and their contact details, please visit the Department of Justice (DoJ) website (www.doj.gov.hk/en/legal_dispute/pdf/Immigration_Facilitation_Scheme_contact_list_en.pdf).
     
    (b) For ad hoc arbitrations (i.e. arbitrations not administered by an arbitral institution), the Letter shall be issued by reputable venue(s) with established and well-equipped hearing facilities. For details of the list of venue providers, please visit the DoJ website (www.doj.gov.hk/en/legal_dispute/pdf/list_of_venue_providers_en.pdf).
     
         For the avoidance of doubt, users of the Scheme are still required to apply for the requisite visit visa or entry permit in order to enter Hong Kong where applicable. Eligible Persons are permitted to stay in Hong Kong for participating in arbitral proceedings for a period not exceeding the period for which they are permitted to remain in Hong Kong as a visitor. They shall produce the Letter upon inspection by the Immigration Department or the relevant authorities, if required. The DoJ will issue a Guidance Note on the Scheme to the above-mentioned arbitral and dispute resolution institutions. 

         Hong Kong has ranked among the most preferred seats for arbitration globally in recent years. Nationals of many countries may visit the city without a visit visa or entry permit. Hong Kong is also an international aviation hub located in the heart of Asia and well-connected to various regions. The Scheme will thus synergise with Hong Kong’s many unique strengths as an ideal venue for arbitrations. With a pool of top professional services talent, there are no legal restrictions on who may act as arbitrator, and parties to arbitral proceedings may retain counsel or advisers without restrictions as to their nationalities and professional qualifications in Hong Kong. Additionally, Hong Kong is the first and only common law jurisdiction outside the Mainland where, as a seat of arbitration, parties to arbitral proceedings administered by designated arbitral institutions would be able to apply to the Mainland courts for preservation measures. Arbitral awards made in Hong Kong are generally upheld by local courts and enforceable in over 170 Contracting Parties to the Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards (New York Convention). An award creditor of a Hong Kong arbitral award can make simultaneous enforcement applications to both the Mainland and Hong Kong courts. 
     
         A spokesman for the DoJ said, “The regularisation and refinement of the Scheme offer parties and practitioners high convenience and a broad choice of international and local legal experts and related professionals, further enhancing Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a seat or destination for arbitrations.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New District Officer for Central and Western assumes office (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Miss Jeanne Cheng will assume the post of District Officer (Central and Western) tomorrow (February 13), succeeding Mr David Leung.
     
         Since joining the Administrative Service in 2002, Miss Cheng has served in various bureaux and departments, including the Home Affairs Department, the then Economic Development and Labour Bureau, the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau, the Education Bureau, the then Food and Health Bureau, and the Chief Executive’s Office.
     
         She was the Principal Assistant Secretary for Labour and Welfare (Children) at the Labour and Welfare Bureau before taking up the new post of District Officer (Central and Western).   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ5: Promoting trail tourism

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Vincent Cheng and a reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (February 12):
     
    Question:

         â€‹It has been reported that a recently released documentary film on four Hong Kong trails is widely acclaimed. There are views that as Hong Kong has beautiful trails and ridgelines, the Government should adopt a new mindset or a new perspective in promoting trail tourism. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the Government’s plans in place to enhance the ancillary facilities on trails or in country parks, such as providing additional replenishment and rest stations, water-filling stations, toilets and directional signs, so as to meet the needs of different types of hikers, and to further promote trail tourism and a safe hiking culture;
     
    (2) of the Government’s plans and publicity strategies in place to promote Hong Kong’s trails to tourists from different places, such as whether it will consider taking the initiative to invite renowned runners to promote the trails, or supporting the broadcasting of the aforesaid documentary film on international streaming platforms or in places outside Hong Kong, so as to attract tourists from abroad; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) in order to further promote Hong Kong’s trail tourism, whether the Government will consider supporting the organisation and promotion of trail races or cross-country races, so as to attract more local and non-local people to take part in such races, thereby stepping up publicity on Hong Kong’s beautiful natural trails?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Hong Kong has rich green and eco-tourism resources, including hiking trails and country parks throughout the city, with breathtaking great outdoors that are only minutes away from the urban hustles, attracting numerous tourists each year for hiking and outdoor activities. Further capitalising on Hong Kong’s abundant ecological resources for promoting green tourism development, is in fact one of the directions in diversifying tourism products as outlined in the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 that we announced at the end of last year.
          
         In respect of the question raised by the Hon Vincent Cheng, in consultation with the Environment and Ecology Bureau, the reply is as follows:
          
         To promote green tourism, the Tourism Commission, in collaboration with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), has been taking forward the Enhancement of Hiking Trails since 2018 to enhance the tourism supporting facilities of 20 hiking trails in country parks which are popular and with tourism potential, and to enhance the “Enjoy Hiking” thematic website. Enhancement works include improvement to existing hiking trail network, control of soil erosion at trails, enhancement of vegetation coverage, addition of lookout points and enrichment of visitor information. The enhancement works on 12 hiking trails have been completed, and those for the remaining eight hiking trails are expected to be completed progressively by the first quarter of 2026.
          
         The AFCD also seeks to enhance hiking trails and provide supporting facilities in country parks, including the provision of 57 flushing toilets and over 120 portable toilets; 289 pavilions, 37 water filling stations and about 30 drinks vending machines. The Government has set aside $500 million to enhance country parks, including the improvement and addition of facilities, as well as gradually setting up large-scale enhancement facilities such as tree-top adventure and open museum of historical relics. Examples of the works involved are the construction of five toilets and reconstruction of six toilets at popular hiking spots. These toilets will adopt low-carbon and environmentally-friendly designs, and will be gradually rolled out from 2026 to 2028. The viewing platform overlooking Po Pin Chau and the Lin Ma Hang Lead Mine Cave Revitalisation Project were opened to the public in end-2024.
          
         The AFCD makes use of school visits, guided tours, online videos, social media, etc, to promote the unique natural scenery and hiking experiences of Hong Kong, provide information on hiking safety and hill fire prevention, and advocate “take your litter home”. Apart from placing directional signs in country parks, the AFCD also provides consolidated information of hiking trails, including maps, distance, level of difficulty and attractions along the trails, through the “Enjoy Hiking” website, to facilitate locals and tourists’ planning of their itineraries. The mobile application “Enjoy Hiking Hiker Tracking Service” also records users’ location, thereby shortening the search and rescue time in case of accidents. Furthermore, the AFCD collaborates with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices (ETOs) in the Mainland and the Forestry Administration of Guangdong Province to promote Hong Kong’s natural scenery and hiking routes, as well as to disseminate hiking safety messages, through their social media platforms in the Mainland. The AFCD will continue to review and refine its promotion strategy and information, and through diverse information distribution channels, to ensure locals and tourists safely enjoy the natural wonders of Hong Kong. At the same time, the Hong Kong Police Force, the Fire Services Department, the Government Flying Service and the Civil Aid Service also raise hiker’s awareness on hiking safety through various channels and activities.
          
         Apart from the AFCD’s promotion, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), through its “Hong Kong Great Outdoors” year-round promotional platform, introduces in detail hiking trails in different districts accompanied by stories to deepen understanding of the trails, as well as docent activities and tourism products by the travel trade and other organisations, allowing tourists to appreciate Hong Kong’s inspiring natural landscape. Besides, films are also a very effective promotional channel. For example, the film “Four Trails” documents a recent trail running event, featuring participants from various places who challenge their limits by crossing mountains and valleys, while simultaneously showcasing Hong Kong’s unique natural scenery. The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) is collaborating with overseas ETOs and the film festival partners worldwide to promote this film at overseas film festivals. In addition, CCIDA will strive for opportunities of showing this film on both international and Mainland streaming platforms to attract more tourists to experience the natural beauty of Hong Kong. Also, the HKTB previously invited the director and producer of the film to share Hong Kong’s great natural scenery and trail running experiences with overseas media.
          
         In addition, various trail running and cross-country events are held by different organisations every year, along with other leisure trail events. The Government has supported and promoted some of these events to encourage more tourists to come to Hong Kong and participate. The Government will continue to promote green tourism based on the principles of nature conservation and sustainable development to pursue the concept of “tourism is everywhere” in Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Orders to amend Dangerous Drugs Ordinance and Control of Chemicals Ordinance to be gazetted on February 14 and etomidate to become dangerous drug on same date

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Orders to amend Dangerous Drugs Ordinance and Control of Chemicals Ordinance to be gazetted on February 14 and etomidate to become dangerous drug on same date
    Orders to amend Dangerous Drugs Ordinance and Control of Chemicals Ordinance to be gazetted on February 14 and etomidate to become dangerous drug on same date
    ******************************************************************************************

         ​A spokesperson for the Security Bureau said today (February 12) that etomidate and its three analogues will be listed as dangerous drugs following the publication of the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Amendment of First Schedule) Order 2025 (DDO Order) in the Gazette on Friday (February 14). On the same date, the Control of Chemicals Ordinance (Amendment of Schedule 2) Order 2025 (CCO Order) will also be published in the Gazette.        The DDO Order will take effect upon its gazettal on February 14, 2025. The CCO Order is expected to become effective on April 11, 2025. Both Orders are subject to the negative vetting procedure of the Legislative Council (LegCo). Details, including the justifications for the legislative proposal, can be found in the brief for LegCo issued today in the Annex.       The DDO Order will add six substances, namely, butonitazene, bromazolam, etomidate, metomidate, propoxate, and isopropoxate, to the First Schedule to the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (DDO) (Cap. 134). Among them, metomidate, propoxate, and isopropoxate are analogues of etomidate. “In view of the recent abuse situation of etomidate, which is the main active ingredient of a new substance with the street name ‘space oil drug’, the Government is expediting the process and has arranged for the DDO Order to take effect immediately upon gazettal on February 14 in order to significantly enhance deterrence and enable effective law enforcement action against the ‘space oil drug’,” the spokesman said. Under the strict control of the DDO, trafficking and illicit manufacturing of these substances are liable to a maximum penalty of life imprisonment and a fine of $5 million. Possession and consumption of these substances in contravention of the DDO will be subject to a maximum penalty of seven years’ imprisonment and a fine of $1 million.      “The Government has been combating the ‘space oil drug’ on all fronts,” the spokesman said. The Government has renamed “space oil” as “space oil drug” to make clear to the public its nature as a dangerous drug and its harmful effects. In addition, the Government has formulated preventive education and publicity strategy against the “space oil drug” in collaboration with various agencies, encouraging them to explain the harmful effects of the “space oil drug” to the public through different channels, raise self-awareness on drug prevention among the public, and seek more ways to reach out to hidden drug abusers.       To tie in with the legislative work, the Government will launch a new TV Announcement in the Public Interest, namely “Don’t fall into ‘space oil drug’  traps!” starting from February 14, and will continue placing advertisement through various online and offline channels and at different locations to promote the relevant message in different ways.       As young people are the target of “space oil drug” sellers, the Narcotics Division of the Security Bureau and the Education Bureau will jointly launch an anti-“space oil drug” week in schools in end-February. During the period, a series of activities will be held, including talks, anti-drug videos broadcasts and drama shows, with a view to preventing the spread of the “space oil drug” among the younger cohort.       ​Regarding the CCO Order, 18 precursor chemicals, namely, BMK glycidic acid and its methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl and tert-butyl esters (nine substances), PMK ethyl glycidate, and six additional esters of 3,4-MDP-2-P methyl glycidic acid, namely, the propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl and tert-butyl esters (seven substances), 4-piperidone and 1-boc-4-piperidone, will be added to Schedule 2 to the Control of Chemicals Ordinance (CCO) (Cap. 145). It is an offence to possess, manufacture, transport or distribute any substance controlled under the CCO for the unlawful production of dangerous drugs, or to import or export the substance not under and in accordance with a licence issued by the Customs and Excise Department. The maximum penalty is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for 15 years.      The spokesperson said, “The amendments aim to deter any potential trafficking and abuse of these dangerous drugs and precursor chemicals. This will help fortify Hong Kong’s defence against drugs. Our law enforcement agencies are ready to enforce the new regulation, including taking action against the ‘space oil drug’.”

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 12, 2025Issued at HKT 14:45

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ21: Making good use of tourism resources in Sha Tau Kok area

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ21: Making good use of tourism resources in Sha Tau Kok area
    LCQ21: Making good use of tourism resources in Sha Tau Kok area
    ***************************************************************

         Following is a question by the Hon Yiu Pak-leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (February 12): Question:      In recent years, the Government has been committed to developing Sha Tau Kok (STK) into a tourist hotspot, including launching the First Phase “STK Pier opening up scheme” and the second phase of the STK opening-‍up plan, upgrading the tourism supporting facilities in STK, as well as providing photo-taking spots. In addition, there are views that the official opening of the Robin’s Nest Country Park on November 2 last year has added more highlights to the STK area. On making good use of the tourism resources in the STK area, will the Government inform this Council: (1) of the respective numbers of individual visitors and tour group visitors visiting STK each month since the launch of the second phase of the STK opening-up plan in January last year, and among which the numbers of non-local visitors (set out in Table 1); Table 1

    Month
    Total number of visitors
    Number of individual visitors(among which the number of non-local visitors)
    Number of tour group visitors(among which the number of non-local visitors)

     
     
     
     

     (2) of the respective numbers of individual visitors and tour group visitors on the 10 dates with the highest number of visitors to STK last year, and among which the numbers of non-local visitors (set out in Table 2); Table 2

    Date
    Total number of visitors
    Number of individual visitors(among which the number of non-local visitors)
    Number of tour group visitors(among which the number of non-local visitors)

     
     
     
     

     (3) as it is learnt that the Police can generally complete the processing of applications for electronic Tourism Closed Area Permits for access to STK at an earlier time (which originally required a minimum of three working days), of the distribution of the time taken by the Police to vet and approve such permits last year (i.e. (i) within four ‍hours, (ii) more than four hours to 12 hours, (iii) more than 12 hours to 24 hours, (iv) more than 24 hours to 48 hours, (v) more than 48 ‍hours to 72 hours, and (vi) more than 72 hours), and set out in Table 3 a breakdown by the type of applicants (i.e. (a) individual visitors and (b) tour group visitors, and (I) local visitors and (II) ‍non-‍local visitors); Table 3

    Vetting and approval time
    (a)
    (b)

    (I)
    (II)
    (I)
    (II)

    (i)
     
     
     
     

    ……
     
     
     
     

    (vi)
     
     
     
     

    Total
     
     
     
     

     (4) as some members of the industry have relayed that it takes time for non-local visitors to apply for electronic Tourism Closed Area Permits to gain access to STK, which is not conducive to travel agencies promoting relevant tourism products to tourists, whether the authorities will consider introducing visa-on-arrival arrangements for tour groups visiting on a “group in, group out” basis, so as to facilitate travel agencies in arranging for more tourists to visit STK; (5) as it is learnt that currently the seven MacIntosh Forts built along the Shenzhen River are no longer in practical operational use, and two of them have undergone basic revitalisation works and are conditionally open to the public, whether the authorities have considered fully opening these two revitalised forts; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; whether the authorities will consider using the forts as visitor service centres or open museums to make good use of heritage resources, thereby enhancing the attractiveness of Robin’s Nest Country Park; (6) given that the “contactless channels” at the Chung Ying Street Checkpoint in STK became operational on December 23 last year, of the progress of exploring the possibility of allowing Hong Kong tour groups to enter Chung Ying Street via such checkpoint on a “group in, group out” basis (including the estimated earliest implementation date); and (7) given that with effect from January 24 this year, the Security Bureau has opened a specified section of road within the frontier closed area near Lin Ma Hang Village in STK, exempting the requirement to apply for a closed area permit for people travelling by green minibus passing through this section of road, with a view to facilitating tourists to travel to Robin’s Nest Country Park, whether the authorities will consider allowing tourist coaches to access this section of road, so as to facilitate the launch of relevant tourism products by the industry? Reply President,      The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) published the Action Plan on Sha Tau Kok Cultural Tourism Zone on December 30, 2024, in tandem with the promulgation of the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0. The CSTB will continue to promote the tourism development in Sha Tau Kok (STK) under the overall principle of “low density, high quality” and through enriching its historical and cultural elements. Specifically, the Government is progressively opening up STK Frontier Closed Area (FCA) for tourism, including rolling out of the second phase of the STK Opening-up Plan in January 2024, under which local and non-local visitors are allowed to enter STK FCA (except Chung Ying Street) for sightseeing. In light of its proximity to the Robin’s Nest Country Park, STK has effectively linked up various tourists spots of the Blue and Green Recreation, Tourism and Conservation Circle of the district, serving as a starting point for visitors travelling by ferry to the surrounding islands and areas, such as Lai Chi Wo, Kat O and Ap Chau.      In consultation with the Security Bureau (SB), the Development Bureau and the Environment and Ecology Bureau, the consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Yiu Pak-leung is as follows: (1) and (2) The monthly figures of electronic Tourism Closed Area Permit (e-CAP) issued by the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) for entering STK in 2024, and the ten dates with most e-CAP issued in the same year, are set out at Annex.(3) To facilitate the implementation of the second phase of the STK Opening-up Plan starting from January 2024, the HKPF launched e-CAP on December 1, 2023. The HKPF has been committed to processing applications as soon as possible. Upon submission by applicants of all the documents required and verification of the relevant information, the vast majority of the e-CAP applications were approved within three working days. The HKPF does not maintain breakdown information of the time required for approval of e-CAP as mentioned in the question. (4) and (6) Since 2022, the SB has, in collaboration with relevant bureaux and departments, formulated specific measures to progressively open-up STK FCA in accordance with the principle of gradual and orderly progress. The SB has fully consulted the local community in the process, closely monitored the implementation of the opening-up plan, as well as maintaining close liaison with relevant stakeholders to ensure timely responses to the concerns raised and implement the opening-up plan in an orderly manner.            As far as Chung Ying Street is concerned, due to its unique historical background and geographical factors, Chung Ying Street directly adjoins the Mainland without any barrier as a boundary demarcation. It is also the only place in Hong Kong where there is no boundary control facilities, while cross-boundary movement of people and cargo is allowed. In light of the boundary security considerations from the SB, Chung Ying Street has not been opened to tourists for entry from Hong Kong STK over the years.           With the gradual opening-up of STK FCA for tourism, the Government will continue to adopt an open stance in exploring the promotion of tourism at Chung Ying Street, as well as other feasible measures that can further facilitate the trade and tourists visiting STK FCA, with a view to fostering the development of cultural tourism in STK. The CSTB, the SB and Shenzhen Municipal Government, have been in ongoing communication with each other over the development of cultural tourism in both Hong Kong and Shenzhen STK, and will explore the feasible option of allowing Hong Kong group tours to enter Chung Ying Street for sightseeing via the Chung Ying Street Checkpoint on a “group in, group out” basis, with a view to further deepening the historical and cultural elements of STK tourism. (5) For security reason, the seven MacIntosh Forts located at the boundary of New Territories are currently not opened to the public. In view of the establishment of the Robin’s Nest Country Park on March 1, 2024, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) installed an interpretation panel near the MacIntosh Fort (Kong Shan) at the Lin Ma Hang Country Trail to introduce the Forts. The AFCD also featured a thematic introduction of the Forts in an episode of the video series titled “Discovering Robin’s Nest Country Park”, which was produced in celebrating the establishment of the Robin’s Nest Country Park, covering the history of the Forts and its role in boundary defence in the past. (7) Starting from January 24, 2025, a section of road within the FCA near Lin Ma Hang Village in STK has been opened for public travelling on public light buses on scheduled service (i.e. green minibuses), by exempting the requirement to apply for a closed area permit. Members of the public concerned can enter Lin Ma Hang Village via the said section of road, thereby facilitating them to visit the Robin’s Nest Country Park and nearby areas. The current exemption is applicable to passengers travelling by green minibuses, but does not apply to private vehicles, taxis or other vehicles without a valid closed road permit, and to members of the public using other means of travel such as walking or cycling. Taking into account the limitations in the road design and safety considerations of the concerned section, the said section of road is not suitable for entry by large coach buses. The Government will examine the effectiveness of the exemption and, on the premise that boundary security and traffic safety can be ensured, keep an open mind in studying the feasibility of extending the exemption arrangement in the future to cover other transportation means.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, February 12, 2025Issued at HKT 14:42

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ15: Promoting development of the fund industry

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Robert Lee and a written reply by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, in the Legislative Council today (February 12):
     
    Question:
     
         There are views that the Government should actively take forward a more comprehensive support policy to promote the development of the fund industry as a whole on all fronts. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it has compiled statistics on the respective shares of capital allocations from Hong Kong’s offshore Renminbi (RMB) (liquidity pool to mutual funds, deposits, stocks, bonds and other investment vehicles, together with a breakdown by holders of such capital, i.e. retail investors, institutional investors, and enterprises; given that the Government is actively promoting the internationalisation of RMB, what measures it has in place to guide more offshore RMB capital to invest in various fund products, so as to promote the development of related businesses;
     
    (2) whether it has compiled statistics on the respective shares of Mainland capital investments in Hong Kong funds and bank deposits under the constant enhancement of the Cross-boundary Wealth Management Connect (WMC) Scheme in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and in which types of funds the investments are mainly made; of the Government’s plans in place to discuss with the Mainland regulatory authorities about further expansion of the scope of fund products under WMC, as well as all-‍round coverage of cross-border fund sales and promotional activities;
     
    (3) whether the Government will step up negotiations with the Mainland regulatory authorities to further increase the number of funds and product types under the mutual recognition of funds scheme; whether it knows if information on such recognised funds will be included in the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited’s Integrated Fund Platform to facilitate trading by investors; and
     
    (4) of the respective proportions of the amounts invested in “financial assets” and “non-financial assets” by applicants of the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme after its implementation, together with a breakdown by the classification of assets; whether the Government will publish the relevant statistics on a regular basis; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Hong Kong is an international asset and wealth management centre, with assets under management exceeding HK$31 trillion. The Government has been attracting more global capital to be managed in Hong Kong through a series of measures with the aim of propelling the all-rounded development of the fund industry. In consultation with Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX), my reply to the various parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) With the support of the Central People’s Government, Hong Kong is a premier global offshore Renminbi (RMB) business hub which possesses the world’s largest offshore pool of RMB funds, and operates the largest foreign exchange and interest rate derivatives market. Hong Kong also provides a diversified range of RMB products and services, with a leading position in RMB settlement, financing and asset management.
     
         The Government has been promoting the development of the offshore RMB business in Hong Kong, and has been actively deepening the mutual access between the Mainland and Hong Kong financial markets, so as to assist the high-level opening up of our country’s capital market. The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) announced in April 2024 a series of measures to promote the expansion of the mutual access between the financial markets of the Mainland and Hong Kong. These measures include expanding the eligible product scope of equity exchange-traded funds (ETFs) under Stock Connect and including real estate investment trusts (REITs) under Stock Connect, which would support the Hong Kong financial market by increasing the availability of attractive investment products, providing more investment opportunities for domestic and international investors, and consolidating Hong Kong’s position as an offshore RMB business hub.
     
         In addition, the HKMA and the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) announced on January 13 this year new measures to further strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a global offshore RMB business hub. Relevant measures include the introduction of the HKMA RMB Trade Financing Liquidity Facility, further enhancement and expansion of Bond Connect (Southbound), development of offshore RMB repurchase business using Northbound Bond Connect bonds as collateral, inclusion of Northbound Bond Connect bonds as eligible margin collateral at OTC Clearing Hong Kong Limited, promoting cross-boundary payment facilitation and financial facilitation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). We will press ahead with the development of an offshore RMB ecosystem to promote the internationalisation of the RMB in a steady and prudent manner.
     
         In terms of financial products, besides RMB foreign exchange trading products, the offshore RMB investment products and services offered in Hong Kong also include RMB-denominated stocks, ETF, REIT, futures contracts for precious metals, and other diversified financial products. However, the Government does not maintain data on the allocation of funds within the offshore RMB pool to various investment products.
     
    (2) Cross-boundary Wealth Management Connect (WMC) has seen continuous and steady development since its launch in September 2021. “WMC 2.0” commenced on February 26, 2024, with enhancement measures including increasing the individual investor quota from RMB1 million to RMB3 million, lowering the threshold for participating in the Southbound Scheme to support more GBA residents to participate in the scheme, expanding the scope of participating institutions to include eligible securities firms, expanding the scope of eligible investment products, and further enhancing the promotion and sales arrangements. According to the statistics published by the PBoC, up to end-2024, over 136 000 individual investors in the GBA participated in the WMC and cross-boundary fund remittances (including Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao) amounting to over RMB99.4 billion had been recorded.
     
         Currently, the scope of eligible products under the Southbound Scheme includes all “non-complex” funds domiciled in Hong Kong and authorised by the SFC that primarily invest in Greater China equity; low-risk to medium-high-risk “non-complex” funds domiciled in Hong Kong and authorised by the SFC (excluding high-yield bond funds and single emerging market equity funds); low-risk to medium-risk and non-complex bonds; and RMB, Hong Kong dollar and foreign currency deposits. The Government does not maintain data on the proportion of Mainland capital invested in these different products.
     
         The Government and Hong Kong regulatory authorities will continue to maintain close communication with the industry and the Mainland regulatory authorities, and continuously review the implementation of “WMC 2.0” with a view to exploring further enhancement measures, including the product scope and sales arrangements.
     
    (3) The Mainland-Hong Kong Mutual Recognition of Funds (MRF) arrangement (the “Arrangement”) was launched in July 2015, where eligible Mainland and Hong Kong funds can be offered to retail investors in each other’s market through a streamlined vetting process. As of end-2024, a total of 83 funds were authorised by the regulators of the two places, with aggregate net subscription amount of around RMB43.5 billion.
     
         The Arrangement has been enhanced with effect from January 1, 2025. Enhancements include relaxing the sales restriction and allowing Hong Kong funds to delegate investment management functions to overseas asset management companies within the same group. The measures will significantly increase the diversity of fund products, enhance the scale of funds, and bring positive effect to the distribution of Hong Kong MRF funds in the Mainland. The SFC will maintain close co-operation with the CSRC to continuously explore and discuss enhancement measures, so as to fully leverage Hong Kong’s distinct advantage and role as an international financial centre and a bridge for two-way capital flow to facilitate a higher level of two-way opening in the country’s capital market.
     
         On the other hand, the Integrated Fund Platform (the Platform) developed by HKEX will help lower the entry threshold of the fund industry, broaden Hong Kong’s fund distribution network, and enhance market efficiency. The first phase of the Platform (the Fund Repository) was launched in December 2024 to facilitate investors’ access to information on fund investment options. Other services of the Platform will be rolled out gradually from this year with functionalities including fund subscription and redemption (including MRF funds), settlement, and nominee services.
     
    (4) The New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES) was open for application on March 1, 2024 to further enrich the talent pool and attract new capital to Hong Kong. An eligible applicant must make investment of a minimum of HK$30 million in the permissible investment assets, including investing a minimum of HK$27 million in permissible financial assets and/or real estate (subject to a cap of HK$10 million), and placing HK$3 million into a new Capital Investment Entrant Scheme Investment Portfolio (CIES Investment Portfolio).
     
         As of end-2024, InvestHK has received over 800 applications, and approved 240 applications for Assessment for Investment Requirements. Except for the applicants’ investment in Hong Kong under the New CIES, the Government does not maintain the data on the investments made by applicants in Hong Kong outside the New CIES. Excluding the sum for investing in the CIES Investment Portfolio, the approved investment distribution is as follows:
     

     
    Investment amount (HK$ Million)

    Eligible collective investment schemes
    2,968

    Equities
    2,553

    Debt securities
    1,018

    Real estate
    10

    Certificates of deposits
    5

    Total
    6,554

     
         The Government will continuously review the applicants’ investment arrangement and room for enhancing the New CIES, including further enhancing the net asset assessment and calculation requirements and allowing applicants to hold assets through his/her wholly owned eligible private company with effect from March 1 this year, thereby attracting global asset owners to establish their presence in Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 2.11.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 11, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Karen Morrison, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director at the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. Morrison has held multiple positions at the Department of Pesticide Regulation since 2018, including Chief Deputy Director and Science Advisor since 2022, Assistant Director and Chief Science Advisor from 2019 to 2022, and Environmental Program Manager and Science and Policy Advisor from 2018 to 2019. She was a Senior Environmental Scientist and Policy Advisor at the California Department of Resources, Recycling, and Recovery from 2014 to 2018. Morrison was a Science and Technology Policy Fellow at the California Council on Science and Technology from 2013 to 2014. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Chemistry from the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign, and she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Harvey Mudd College. This position requires Senate confirmation, and compensation is $213,651. Morrison is registered without party preference. 

    Nicholas Lutton, of Fresno, has been appointed to the State Council on Developmental Disabilities. Lutton was the Program Manager at Family Voices of California from 2022 to 2024. He was an Educational Resource Specialist at EPU Children’s Center from 2019 to 2022. Lutton is a member of the Editorial Board at the American Association of Pediatrics and Fresno County In-Home Services Advisory Committee. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Lutton is a Democrat.

    Eric Bergersen, of Long Beach, has been appointed to the Physician Assistant Board. Bergersen has been the Regional Medical Director at Bicycle Health Medical Group since 2020. He was the APC Director at VEP Healthcare from 2018 to 2020. Bergersen was an Emergency Medicine Physician Assistant at VEP Healthcare from 2017 to 2019. He was a Clinical Consultant at GYANT from 2018 to 2019. Bergersen was the Lead Emergency Department Technician at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center from 2012 to 2015. He is a member of Physician Assistants in Virtual Medicine and Telemedicine. Bergersen earned a Master of Science degree in Health Care Administration from Oklahoma State University, a Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from George Washington University, and Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience from Northeastern University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Bergersen is a Democrat.

    Ed Perez, of Sacramento, has been appointed to the Physician Assistant Board. Perez was a manager at Labor Relations and Performance Management, California Department of Water Resources from 2019 to 2024. He was a Labor Relations Specialist, Department of Water Resources from 2015 to 2019. Perez was a Labor Relations Specialist & Labor Relations Analyst at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation from 2013 to 2015. He is a member of the Asian Pacific American Public Affairs Association (APAPA), the Hamptons Community Foundation, the Hamptons Owners Association, the Gardenland-Northgate Neighborhood Association, and a Community Activist with AARP. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Perez is a Democrat.

    Drake Dillard, of Los Angeles, has been reappointed to the California Commission on Disability Access, where he has served since 2020. Dillard has been a Senior Project Manager at Perkins & Will since 2014. He was a Senior Healthcare Architect at Parsons from 2007 to 2013. Dillard was a Project Architect at Kaiser Permanente from 1989 to 1998. He is a member of the Crenshaw Design Review Panel, American Institute of Architects and the National Organization of Minority Architects. Dillard earned a Master of Arts degree in Architecture from Howard University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Architecture from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Dillard is registered without party preference.

    Jaqueline Jackson, of San Diego, has been reappointed to the California Commission on Disability Access, where she has served since 2020. Jackson has been a Non-Profit Management Consultant since 1994. She was Development Director and Consultant for the San Diego Center for the Blind from 2002 to 2004. Jackson was Director of Charter School Development for Norman and Norman Inc. from 1996 to 2005. She was an Education Consultant for the School Futures Research Foundation from 1994 to 1996. Jackson was the Director of Education for Health and Family Support Services at the San Diego Urban League from 1988 to 1994. She is a member of the City of San Diego Accessibility Advisory Board, City of San Diego Senior Affairs Advisory Board, and the County of San Diego Registrar of Voters Accessibility Advisory Committee. Jackson earned a Master of Education degree from the University of San Diego and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University, San Diego. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Jackson is a Democrat.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Feb 11, 2025

    News What you need to know: Across all of state government, highly-specialized personnel and response equipment are on the ground working to protect communities statewide from storm impacts.  Los Angeles, California – With another significant winter storm system…

    Feb 11, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order today ordering the state to ensure that childcare providers impacted by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles are aware of their potential eligibility for Disaster Unemployment Assistance and…

    Feb 11, 2025

    News What you need to know: The fastest large-scale debris removal in modern state history began today in Altadena and the Pacific Palisades, in roughly half the time it took to start similar operations after the devastating 2018 Woolsey Fire.  LOS ANGELES – Governor…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Mainland condemns US-Japan joint declaration for containing irresponsible Taiwan remarks

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A file photo of Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council. [Photo/Xinhua]

    A mainland spokesperson on Wednesday condemned the recent U.S.-Japan joint declaration for its irresponsible remarks on Taiwan, calling it a blatant interference in China’s internal affairs.

    Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the comments in response to a media query concerning the joint declaration reached between leaders of the United States and Japan after their recent meeting.

    Zhu urged the United States to abide by the one-China principle and three China-U.S. joint communiques and stop sending any wrong signal to “Taiwan independence” separatist elements.

    Noting that Japan is a country with historical responsibility regarding the Taiwan question, Zhu said Japan should learn from history, exercise caution in its words and actions, adhere to the four China-Japan political documents, and handle Taiwan-related issues prudently.

    She also warned the Democratic Progressive Party authorities in Taiwan that any attempt to rely on external forces to divide the country is doomed to fail.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Space Shuttle Endeavour Takes Flight

    Source: NASA

    Blue mach diamonds from the main engine nozzles and bright exhaust from the solid rocket boosters mark the successful launch of space shuttle Endeavour 25 years ago on Feb. 11, 2000. The STS-99 mission crew – including astronauts from NASA, the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), and the European Space Agency (ESA) – were aboard the shuttle.
    This mission saw the deployment of the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission mast and the antenna turned to its operation position. After a successful checkout of the radar systems, mapping began less than 12 hours after launch. Crewmembers split into two shifts so they could work around the clock.
    Also aboard Endeavour was a student experiment called EarthKAM, which took 2,715 digital photos during the mission through an overhead flight-deck window. The NASA-sponsored program lets middle school students select photo targets and receive the images via the Internet. 
    Image credit: NASA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA, SpaceX Invite Media to Watch Crew-10 Launch to Space Station

    Source: NASA

    Media accreditation is open for the launch of NASA’s 10th rotational mission of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft, carrying astronauts to the International Space Station for a science expedition. The agency’s SpaceX Crew-10 mission is targeting launch on Wednesday, March 12, from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
    The launch will carry NASA astronauts Anne McClain as commander and Nichole Ayers as pilot, along with JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Takuya Onishi and Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov as mission specialists. This is the first spaceflight for Ayers and Peskov, and the second mission to the orbiting laboratory for McClain and Onishi.
    Media accreditation deadlines for the Crew-10 launch as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program are as follows:

    International media without U.S. citizenship must apply by 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13.
    U.S. media and U.S. citizens representing international media organizations must apply by 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, Feb. 23.

    All accreditation requests must be submitted online at:
    https://media.ksc.nasa.gov
    NASA’s media accreditation policy is online. For questions about accreditation or special logistical requests, email: ksc-media-accreditat@mail.nasa.gov. Requests for space for satellite trucks, tents, or electrical connections are due by Friday, Feb. 21.
    For other questions, please contact NASA Kennedy’s newsroom at: 321-867-2468.
    Para obtener información sobre cobertura en español en el Centro Espacial Kennedy o si desea solicitar entrevistas en español, comuníquese con Antonia Jaramillo: 321-501-8425, o Messod Bendayan: 256-930-1371.
    For launch coverage and more information about the mission, visit:
    https://www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew
    -end-
    Joshua Finch / Claire O’SheaHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov / claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov
    Steve Siceloff / Stephanie PlucinskyKennedy Space Center, Florida321-867-2468steven.p.siceloff@nasa.gov / stephanie.n.plucinsky@nasa.gov
    Kenna PellJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111kenna.m.pell@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Make in India: BEL delivers 7,000th transmit/receive module to Thales for Rafale RBE2 Radar

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Make in India: BEL delivers 7,000th transmit/receive module to Thales for Rafale RBE2 Radar

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies specialising in three business domains: Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital.

    It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive.

    The Group invests close to €4 billion a year in Research & Development, particularly in key innovation areas such as AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, cloud technologies and 6G.

    Thales has close to 81,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2023, the Group generated sales of €18.4 billion.

    About Thales in India

    Present in India since 1953, Thales is headquartered in Noida and has other operational offices and sites spread across Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai, among others. Over 2200 employees are working with Thales and its joint ventures in India. Since the beginning, Thales has been playing an essential role in India’s growth story by sharing its technologies and expertise in Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital markets. Thales has two engineering competence centres in India – one in Noida focused on Cyber & Digital business, while the one in Bengaluru focuses on hardware, software and systems engineering capabilities for both the civil and defence sectors, serving global needs.

    About Bharat Electronics Limited

    BEL, a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, enjoys leadership position in the Defence / Strategic Electronics market in India. BEL is a multi-product, multi-technology, multi-Unit conglomerate which boasts of over 600 products in the areas of Radars & Fire Control systems, Weapon systems, Communication & Network Centric systems, Naval Systems, Electronic Warfare & Avionics, Electro Optics, Anti-submarine Warfare systems, Tank Electronics & Gun Upgrades, Homeland Security, civilian products and Strategic Components.

    Some of the areas BEL is focussing as part of its diversification efforts include solutions for Civil Aviation, Unmanned systems, Railway & Metro systems, Network & Cyber Security, Smart City solutions, Space Electronics, Arms & Ammunition and Seekers, Medical Electronics and Artificial Intelligence. BEL is also a CMMi Level 5, ISO As-9100, ISO 27001-2013 (ISMS) certified and CERT-In empanelled agency.

    MIL OSI Economics –