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  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN – Pope’s Message for World Mission Day 2025: The Church prolongs the mission of Christ by offering life for all

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 6 February 2025

    Vatican Media

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – “The Church, a community of Christ’s missionary disciples”, is today “sent to revive hope in a world over which dark shadows”. “Despite facing persecutions, tribulations and difficulties, as well as her own imperfections and failures due to the weakness of her members, the Church is constantly impelled by the love of Christ to persevere, “prolongs” the mission of Jesus” offering her life for all in the midst of the nations”.This is the essence of Pope Francis’ message for World Mission Sunday 2025, which will be celebrated on October 19.The Document is dated January 25, the Feast of the Conversion of the Apostle Paul, and is published today, February 6, the liturgical memorial of Saints Paul Miki and his companions, a group of 25 Japanese martyrs, eight of whom were priests and religious of the Society of Jesus and the Order of Friars Minor, European missionaries or those born in Japan, and seventeen lay people. All of them were arrested and, as the Roman Martyrology reports, “seriously mistreated and sentenced to death. All of them, including the young ones, were crucified because they were Christians.”These dates are not accidental, considering the themes addressed in the message entitled “Missionaries of Hope Among All Peoples”At the heart of the message, divided into three paragraphs, is the theme of hope, the theological virtue that is also at the heart of the Ordinary Jubilee that the Catholic Church is currently celebrating. The theme – explains the Pope – was chosen because it “reminds individual Christians and the entire Church, the community of the baptized, of our fundamental vocation to be, in the footsteps of Christ, messengers and builders of hope”.Hence “the desire” of the Bishop of Rome to “recall some relevant aspects of our Christian missionary identity, so that we can let ourselves be guided by the Spirit of God and burn with holy zeal for a new evangelizing season in the Church”. And first of all to “keep our gaze fixed on Christ, the centre of history”, “the fullness of salvation for all”, as well as “the supreme model of all those down the centuries who carry out their own God-given mission, even amid extreme trials”.“Through his disciples, sent to all peoples and mystically accompanied by him, the Lord Jesus continues his ministry of hope for humanity”, bending over “all those who are poor, afflicted, despairing and oppressed, and pours «upon their wounds the balm of consolation and the wine of hope»”, writes the Pope, quoting the Preface “Jesus the Good Samaritan”.The Pope’s thoughts also go to the missionaries ad gentes who “following the Lord’s call”, “have gone forth to other nations to make known the love of God in Christ. For this, I thank you most heartily! Your lives are a clear response to the command of the risen Christ, who sent his disciples to evangelize all peoples. In this way, you are signs of the universal vocation of the baptized to become, by the power of the Spirit and daily effort, missionaries among the nations and witnesses to the great hope given us by the Lord Jesus”.The horizon of this hope, the Pope points out, “transcends the passing things of this world and opens up to those divine realities in which we share even now.” The Bishop of Rome then cites Paul VI, who fifty years ago, in the Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Nuntandi (n. 27), wrote that the salvation offered by Christ is not only “immanent, meeting material or even spiritual needs… completely caught up in temporal desires, hopes, affairs, and struggles. Rather, it exceeds all such limits in order to reach fulfilment in a communion with the one Absolute, which is God. It is a salvation both transcendent and eschatological, which indeed has its beginning in this life, but is fulfilled in eternity.”Hence the invitation to put into practice the actions suggested in the Bull Spes Non Confundit, living above all in “personal contact” with brothers and sisters, “with particular attention to the poorest and weakest, the sick, the elderly and those excluded from materialistic and consumerist society. They are the ones who teach us how to live in hope. Through personal contact, we will also convey the love of the compassionate heart of the Lord”. In fact, all the baptized, continues the Pontiff, quoting the speech he himself gave in June two years ago to the General Assembly of the Pontifical Mission Societies, are “have been sent to continue this mission: to be signs of the heart of Christ and the love of the Father, embracing the whole world”.To this end, Pope Francis stresses, “we need to be renewed in the Easter spirituality experienced at every Eucharistic celebration and especially during the Easter Triduum, the centre and culmination of the liturgical year”. Moreover, “missionaries of hope are men and women of prayer, for “the person who hopes is a person who prays”, in the words of Venerable Cardinal François-Xavier Van Thuan, who was himself sustained in hope throughout his lengthy imprisonment thanks to the strength he received from faithful prayer and the Eucharist (cf. The Road of Hope, Boston, 2001, 963). Let us not forget that prayer is the primary missionary activity and at the same time the first strength of hope”.“So,” urges the Pope, “let us renew the mission of hope, starting from prayer, especially prayer based on the word of God and particularly the Psalms, that great symphony of prayer whose composer is the Holy Spirit. The Psalms train us to hope amid adversity, to discern the signs of hope around us, and to have the constant “missionary” desire that God be praised by all peoples”.In the third and final paragraph, the Bishop of Rome describes evangelization as a “communitarian process,” which “does not end with the initial preaching of the Gospel and with Baptism, but continues with the building up of Christian communities through the accompaniment of each of the baptized along the path of the Gospel. In modern society, membership in the Church is never something achieved once for all. Therefore, the missionary activity of handing down and shaping a mature faith in Christ is “paradigmatic for all the Church’s activity,” he adds (Evangelii Gaudium, 15).“I would emphasize once more the importance of this missionary synodality of the Church, as well as the service rendered by the Pontifical Mission Societies in promoting the missionary responsibility of the baptized and supporting new Particular Churches. And I urge all of you, children, young people, adults and the elderly, to participate actively in the common evangelizing mission of the Church by your witness of life and prayer, by your sacrifices and by your generosity,” concludes Pope Francis. (F.B.) (6/2/2025)

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN has bilateral meeting with Ambassador of Chile to ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today met with Ambassador of Chile to ASEAN, H.E. Mario Ignacio Artaza, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. They exchanged views on the ASEAN-Chile Development Partnership and ways to further substantiate cooperation, including the implementation of the ASEAN-Chile Development Partnership: Practical Cooperation Areas and Chile’s interest to accede to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) Agreement.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN has bilateral meeting with Ambassador of Chile to ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN receives visit by EU–ASEAN Business Council delegation

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received a visit by a delegation from the EU-ASEAN Business Council, who are on a business mission to Indonesia, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. The meeting exchanged perspectives and discussed the role of private sectors in fostering the digital economy and accelerating sustainability within the ASEAN region. They underscored the critical role of private sector innovation and investment in driving these agendas, while exploring actionable pathways to deepen cooperation between ASEAN and European stakeholders.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN receives visit by EU–ASEAN Business Council delegation appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: AMG Reports Financial and Operating Results for the Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company reports EPS of $4.92, Economic EPS of $6.53 in the fourth quarter of 2024
    EPS of $15.13, Economic EPS of $21.36 for the full year 2024

    • New partnership with NorthBridge Partners, a private markets manager specializing in industrial logistics real estate assets
    • Net income (controlling interest) of $512 million, Economic Net Income (controlling interest) of $702 million
    • 10% full-year Economic Earnings per share growth reflects AMG’s ongoing strategic evolution and disciplined capital allocation strategy
    • Repurchased $700 million in common stock or approximately 13% of shares outstanding in 2024

    WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMG, a strategic partner to leading independent investment management firms globally, today reported its financial and operating results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2024.

    Jay C. Horgen, President and Chief Executive Officer of AMG, said:
    “AMG delivered record Economic Earnings per share in 2024; growth of 10% relative to the prior year reflected the ongoing evolution of our business and the positive impact of our disciplined capital allocation strategy.

    “In 2024, we continued to strategically evolve our business, increasing our exposure to alternatives, which further enhances our long-term growth prospects. AMG’s private markets Affiliates raised approximately $24 billion during the year, reflecting the ongoing demand for our Affiliates’ specialized strategies. Throughout the year we continued to invest our capital and resources alongside our Affiliates to develop new products for the U.S. wealth marketplace, including additional innovative alternative solutions across private markets and liquid alternatives.

    “This morning, we announced our investment in NorthBridge Partners, a leading vertically integrated real estate manager with excellent forward prospects, given its deep expertise and targeted investment strategy in last-mile logistics, a high-growth sector benefiting from the expanding digital economy and evolving supply chain dynamics. Our partnership with NorthBridge broadens AMG’s participation in private markets and underscores our focus on investing in areas of secular growth. AMG’s proven ability to magnify the competitive advantages of partner-owned firms, while also preserving their independence, continues to differentiate AMG’s partnership model and is highly valued by prospective Affiliates.

    “Our execution across each element of our growth strategy, including investing in new Affiliate partnerships, investing in our existing Affiliates, and investing in AMG’s capabilities to magnify our Affiliates’ success, is driving the evolution of our distinctive business profile. Given AMG’s proven strategic capabilities and 30-year track record of successful partnerships, our opportunities to invest in growth are expanding. With our ample financial flexibility and disciplined capital allocation framework, we enter 2025 in an excellent position to continue executing on our strategy, and create meaningful incremental shareholder value over time.”

    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS Three Months Ended   Years Ended
    (in millions, except as noted and per share data) 12/31/2023   12/31/2024   12/31/2023   12/31/2024
    Operating Performance Measures              
    AUM (at period end, in billions) $ 672.7     $ 707.9     $ 672.7     $ 707.9  
    Average AUM (in billions)   648.1       717.3       660.3       700.5  
    Net client cash flows (in billions)   (6.1 )     (8.3 )     (29.2 )     (13.9 )
    Aggregate fees   1,560.9       1,509.2       5,066.6       5,236.0  
    Financial Performance Measures              
    Net income (controlling interest) $ 196.2     $ 162.1     $ 672.9     $ 511.6  
    Earnings per share (diluted)(1)   5.15       4.92       17.42       15.13  
    Supplemental Performance Measures(2)              
    Adjusted EBITDA (controlling interest) $ 296.2     $ 281.7     $ 935.7     $ 973.1  
    Economic net income (controlling interest)   242.9       205.8       717.8       701.6  
    Economic earnings per share   6.86       6.53       19.48       21.36  
                                   

    For additional information on our Supplemental Performance Measures, including reconciliations to GAAP, see the Financial Tables and Notes.

    Capital Management
    During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company repurchased approximately $120 million in common stock, bringing full-year share repurchases to approximately $700 million. The Company also announced a fourth-quarter cash dividend of $0.01 per share of common stock, payable March 4, 2025 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 18, 2025.

    About AMG
    AMG (NYSE: AMG) is a strategic partner to leading independent investment management firms globally. AMG’s strategy is to generate long‐term value by investing in high-quality independent partner-owned firms, through a proven partnership approach, and allocating resources across AMG’s unique opportunity set to the areas of highest growth and return. Through its distinctive approach, AMG magnifies its Affiliates’ existing advantages and actively supports their independence and ownership culture. As of December 31, 2024, AMG’s aggregate assets under management were approximately $708 billion across a diverse range of private markets, liquid alternative, and differentiated long-only investment strategies. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at www.amg.com.

             

    Conference Call, Replay and Presentation Information
    A conference call will be held with AMG’s management at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time today. Parties interested in listening to the conference call should dial 1-877-407-8291 (U.S. calls) or 1-201-689-8345 (non-U.S. calls) shortly before the call begins.

    The conference call will also be available for replay beginning approximately one hour after the conclusion of the call. To hear a replay of the call, please dial 1-877-660-6853 (U.S. calls) or 1-201-612-7415 (non-U.S. calls) and provide conference ID 13750674. The live call and replay of the session and a presentation highlighting the Company’s performance can also be accessed via AMG’s website at https://ir.amg.com/.

    Financial Tables Follow

    ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT – STATEMENTS OF CHANGES (in billions)
     
      Alternatives   Differentiated Long-Only  
    BY STRATEGY – QUARTER TO DATE Private Markets
    		   Liquid
    Alternatives
    		     Equities
    		   Multi-Asset &
    Fixed Income
    		   Total
    		  
    AUM, September 30, 2024 $ 131.2   $ 135.3     $ 345.9   $ 116.0   $ 728.4  
    Client cash inflows and commitments   5.6     8.9       10.2     5.2     29.9  
    Client cash outflows   (0.1 )   (7.3 )     (25.8 )   (5.0 )   (38.2 )
    Net client cash flows   5.5     1.6       (15.6 )   0.2     (8.3 )
    Market changes   (0.2 )   3.5       (2.5 )   0.4     1.2  
    Foreign exchange   (0.5 )   (3.1 )     (6.3 )   (1.3 )   (11.2 )
    Realizations and distributions (net)   (0.7 )   (0.2 )     (1.3 )   (0.1 )   (2.3 )
    Other   0.1     3.6       (4.0 )   0.4     0.1  
    AUM, December 31, 2024 $ 135.4   $ 140.7     $ 316.2   $ 115.6   $ 707.9  
      Alternatives   Differentiated Long-Only  
    BY STRATEGY – YEAR TO DATE Private Markets
    		   Liquid
    Alternatives
    		     Equities
    		   Multi-Asset &
    Fixed Income
    		   Total
    		  
    AUM, December 31, 2023 $ 114.8   $ 124.0     $ 329.4   $ 104.5   $ 672.7  
    Client cash inflows and commitments   23.7     27.5       38.1     22.1     111.4  
    Client cash outflows   (0.2 )   (25.6 )     (80.2 )   (19.3 )   (125.3 )
    Net client cash flows   23.5     1.9       (42.1 )   2.8     (13.9 )
    New investments   0.7     —       —     0.7     1.4  
    Market changes   0.4     10.6       41.4     8.7     61.1  
    Foreign exchange   (0.3 )   (0.8 )     (4.6 )   (1.2 )   (6.9 )
    Realizations and distributions (net)   (4.4 )   (0.5 )     (1.4 )   (0.3 )   (6.6 )
    Other   0.7     5.5       (6.5 )   0.4     0.1  
    AUM, December 31, 2024 $ 135.4   $ 140.7     $ 316.2   $ 115.6   $ 707.9  
     
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
     
        Three Months Ended
    (in millions, except per share data)   12/31/2023   12/31/2024
    Consolidated revenue   $ 502.7     $ 524.2  
             
    Consolidated expenses:        
    Compensation and related expenses     244.5       238.8  
    Selling, general and administrative     84.8       98.4  
    Intangible amortization and impairments     10.8       7.3  
    Interest expense     31.4       35.2  
    Depreciation and other amortization     3.0       4.0  
    Other expenses (net)     9.6       8.8  
    Total consolidated expenses     384.1       392.5  
             
    Equity method income (net)(3)     125.7       124.5  
    Affiliate Transaction gains(4)     —       —  
    Investment and other income     29.8       17.5  
    Income before income taxes     274.1       273.7  
             
    Income tax expense     29.8       52.6  
    Net income     244.3       221.1  
             
    Net income (non-controlling interests)     (48.1 )     (59.0 )
    Net income (controlling interest)   $ 196.2     $ 162.1  
             
    Average shares outstanding (basic)     33.7       30.1  
    Average shares outstanding (diluted)     41.3       36.0  
             
    Earnings per share (basic)   $ 5.83     $ 5.39  
    Earnings per share (diluted)(1)   $ 5.15     $ 4.92  
     
    RECONCILIATIONS OF SUPPLEMENTAL PERFORMANCE MEASURES(2)
     
        Three Months Ended
    (in millions, except per share data)   12/31/2023   12/31/2024
    Net income (controlling interest)   $ 196.2     $ 162.1  
    Intangible amortization and impairments     39.9       30.5  
    Intangible-related deferred taxes     12.8       15.3  
    Affiliate Transactions(4)     —       —  
    Other economic items     (6.0 )     (2.1 )
    Economic net income (controlling interest)   $ 242.9     $ 205.8  
             
    Average shares outstanding (adjusted diluted)     35.4       31.5  
    Economic earnings per share   $ 6.86     $ 6.53  
             
    Net income (controlling interest)   $ 196.2     $ 162.1  
    Interest expense     31.4       35.2  
    Income taxes     34.5       54.9  
    Intangible amortization and impairments     39.9       30.5  
    Affiliate Transactions(4)     —       —  
    Other items     (5.8 )     (1.0 )
    Adjusted EBITDA (controlling interest)   $ 296.2     $ 281.7  
     
    See Notes for additional information.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
     
        Years Ended
    (in millions, except per share data)   12/31/2023   12/31/2024
    Consolidated revenue   $ 2,057.8     $ 2,040.9  
             
    Consolidated expenses:        
    Compensation and related expenses     907.5       915.3  
    Selling, general and administrative     358.2       376.5  
    Intangible amortization and impairments     48.3       29.0  
    Interest expense     123.8       133.3  
    Depreciation and other amortization     13.0       13.4  
    Other expenses (net)     45.8       40.3  
    Total consolidated expenses     1,496.6       1,507.8  
             
    Equity method income (net)(3)     280.0       312.7  
    Affiliate Transaction gains(4)     133.1       —  
    Investment and other income     117.1       77.4  
    Income before income taxes     1,091.4       923.2  
             
    Income tax expense     185.3       182.6  
    Net income     906.1       740.6  
             
    Net income (non-controlling interests)     (233.2 )     (229.0 )
    Net income (controlling interest)   $ 672.9     $ 511.6  
             
    Average shares outstanding (basic)     35.1       31.1  
    Average shares outstanding (diluted)     42.2       36.1  
             
    Earnings per share (basic)   $ 19.18     $ 16.45  
    Earnings per share (diluted)(1)   $ 17.42     $ 15.13  
     
    RECONCILIATIONS OF SUPPLEMENTAL PERFORMANCE MEASURES(2)
     
        Years Ended
    (in millions, except per share data)   12/31/2023   12/31/2024
    Net income (controlling interest)   $ 672.9     $ 511.6  
    Intangible amortization and impairments     128.5       149.2  
    Intangible-related deferred taxes     57.3       61.9  
    Affiliate Transactions(4)     (122.1 )     —  
    Other economic items     (18.8 )     (21.1 )
    Economic net income (controlling interest)   $ 717.8     $ 701.6  
             
    Average shares outstanding (adjusted diluted)     36.8       32.8  
    Economic earnings per share   $ 19.48     $ 21.36  
             
    Net income (controlling interest)   $ 672.9     $ 511.6  
    Interest expense     123.8       133.3  
    Income taxes     185.2       187.9  
    Intangible amortization and impairments     128.5       149.2  
    Affiliate Transactions(4)     (162.7 )     —  
    Other items     (12.0 )     (8.9 )
    Adjusted EBITDA (controlling interest)   $ 935.7     $ 973.1  
     
    See Notes for additional information.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
     
        Years Ended
    (in millions)   12/31/2023   12/31/2024
    Assets        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 813.6     $ 950.0  
    Receivables     368.4       409.7  
    Investments     941.9       595.6  
    Goodwill     2,523.6       2,504.9  
    Acquired client relationships (net)     1,812.4       1,777.8  
    Equity method investments in Affiliates (net)     2,288.5       2,246.6  
    Fixed assets (net)     67.3       57.6  
    Other assets     243.9       288.7  
    Total assets   $ 9,059.6     $ 8,830.9  
             
    Liabilities and Equity        
    Payables and accrued liabilities   $ 628.5     $ 639.1  
    Debt     2,537.5       2,620.2  
    Deferred tax liability (net)     463.8       520.5  
    Other liabilities     466.3       402.4  
    Total liabilities     4,096.1       4,182.2  
             
    Redeemable non-controlling interests     393.4       350.5  
    Equity:        
    Common stock     0.6       0.6  
    Additional paid-in capital     741.4       733.1  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (167.6 )     (163.6 )
    Retained earnings     6,389.6       6,899.8  
          6,964.0       7,469.9  
    Less: treasury stock, at cost     (3,376.1 )     (4,124.6 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     3,587.9       3,345.3  
    Non-controlling interests     982.2       952.9  
    Total equity     4,570.1       4,298.2  
    Total liabilities and equity   $ 9,059.6     $ 8,830.9  
    Notes
       
    (1) Earnings per share (diluted) adjusts for the dilutive effect of the potential issuance of incremental shares of our common stock.
       
      We assume the settlement of all of our Redeemable non-controlling interests using the maximum number of shares permitted under our arrangements. The issuance of shares and the related income acquired are excluded from the calculation if an assumed purchase of Redeemable non-controlling interests would be anti-dilutive to diluted earnings per share.
       
      We are required to apply the if-converted method to our outstanding junior convertible securities when calculating Earnings per share (diluted). Under the if-converted method, shares that are issuable upon conversion are deemed outstanding, regardless of whether the securities are contractually convertible into our common stock at that time. For this calculation, the interest expense (net of tax) attributable to these dilutive securities is added back to Net income (controlling interest), reflecting the assumption that the securities have been converted. Issuable shares for these securities and related interest expense are excluded from the calculation if an assumed conversion would be anti-dilutive to diluted earnings per share.
       
      The following table provides a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
          Three Months Ended   Years Ended
      (in millions)   12/31/2023   12/31/2024   12/31/2023   12/31/2024
      Numerator                
      Net income (controlling interest)   $ 196.2   $ 162.1   $ 672.9   $ 511.6
      Income from hypothetical settlement of Redeemable non-controlling interests, net of taxes     12.9     11.7     49.0     20.5
      Interest expense on junior convertible securities, net of taxes     3.4     3.4     13.4     13.4
      Net income (controlling interest), as adjusted   $ 212.5   $ 177.2   $ 735.3   $ 545.5
      Denominator                
      Average shares outstanding (basic)     33.7     30.1     35.1     31.1
      Effect of dilutive instruments:                
      Stock options and restricted stock units     1.7     1.4     1.7     1.7
      Hypothetical issuance of shares to settle Redeemable non-controlling interests     4.2     2.8     3.7     1.6
      Junior convertible securities     1.7     1.7     1.7     1.7
      Average shares outstanding (diluted)     41.3     36.0     42.2     36.1
    (2) As supplemental information, we provide non-GAAP performance measures of Adjusted EBITDA (controlling interest), Economic net income (controlling interest), and Economic earnings per share. We believe that many investors use our Adjusted EBITDA (controlling interest) when comparing our financial performance to other companies in the investment management industry. Management utilizes these non-GAAP performance measures to assess our performance before our share of certain non-cash GAAP expenses primarily related to the acquisition of interests in Affiliates and to improve comparability between periods. Economic net income (controlling interest) and Economic earnings per share are used by management and our Board of Directors as our principal performance benchmarks, including as one of the measures for determining executive compensation. These non-GAAP performance measures are provided in addition to, but not as a substitute for, Net income (controlling interest), Earnings per share, or other GAAP performance measures. For additional information on our non-GAAP measures, see our most recent Annual and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-K and 10-Q, respectively, which are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
       
      Adjusted EBITDA (controlling interest) represents our performance before our share of interest expense, income and certain non-income based taxes, depreciation, amortization, impairments, gains and losses related to Affiliate Transactions, and non-cash items such as certain Affiliate equity activity, gains and losses on our contingent payment obligations, and unrealized gains and losses on seed capital, general partner commitments, and other strategic investments. Adjusted EBITDA (controlling interest) is also adjusted to include realized economic gains and losses related to these seed capital, general partner commitments, and other strategic investments.
       
      Under our Economic net income (controlling interest) definition, we adjust Net income (controlling interest) for our share of pre-tax intangible amortization and impairments related to intangible assets (including the portion attributable to equity method investments in Affiliates) because these expenses do not correspond to the changes in the value of these assets, which do not diminish predictably over time. We also adjust for deferred taxes attributable to intangible assets because we believe it is unlikely these accruals will be used to settle material tax obligations. Further, we adjust for gains and losses related to Affiliate Transactions, net of tax, and other economic items. Other economic items include certain Affiliate equity activity, gains and losses related to contingent payment obligations, tax windfalls and shortfalls from share-based compensation, unrealized gains and losses on seed capital, general partner commitments, and other strategic investments, and realized economic gains and losses related to these seed capital, general partner commitments, and other strategic investments.
       
      Economic earnings per share represents Economic net income (controlling interest) divided by the Average shares outstanding (adjusted diluted). In this calculation, we exclude the potential shares issued upon settlement of Redeemable non-controlling interests from Average shares outstanding (adjusted diluted) because we intend to settle those obligations without issuing shares, consistent with all prior Affiliate equity purchase transactions. The potential share issuance in connection with our junior convertible securities is measured using a “treasury stock” method. Under this method, only the net number of shares of common stock equal to the value of the junior convertible securities in excess of par, if any, are deemed to be outstanding. We believe the inclusion of net shares under a treasury stock method best reflects the benefit of the increase in available capital resources (which could be used to repurchase shares of our common stock) that occurs when these securities are converted and we are relieved of our debt obligation.
       
      The following table provides a reconciliation of Average shares outstanding (adjusted diluted):
          Three Months Ended   Years Ended
      (in millions)   12/31/2023     12/31/2024     12/31/2023     12/31/2024  
      Average shares outstanding (diluted)   41.3     36.0     42.2     36.1  
      Hypothetical issuance of shares to settle Redeemable non-controlling interests   (4.2 )   (2.8 )   (3.7 )   (1.6 )
      Junior convertible securities   (1.7 )   (1.7 )   (1.7 )   (1.7 )
      Average shares outstanding (adjusted diluted)   35.4     31.5     36.8     32.8  
    (3) The following table presents equity method earnings and equity method intangible amortization and impairments, which in aggregate form Equity method income (net):
       
          Three Months Ended   Years Ended
      (in millions)   12/31/2023   12/31/2024   12/31/2023   12/31/2024
      Equity method earnings   $ 158.3     $ 150.1     $ 375.6     $ 442.7  
      Equity method intangible amortization and impairments     (32.6 )     (25.6 )     (95.6 )     (130.0 )
      Equity method income (net)   $ 125.7     $ 124.5     $ 280.0     $ 312.7  
    (4) The following table presents the impact of the completion of our previously announced sales of our equity interests in Veritable, LP to a third party in the third quarter of 2023, and Baring Private Equity Asia to EQT AB (“EQT”), a public company listed on Nasdaq Stockholm (EQT ST), in the fourth quarter of 2022, pursuant to which we received ordinary shares of EQT:
     
          Three Months Ended   Years Ended
      (in millions)   12/31/2023   12/31/2024   12/31/2023   12/31/2024  
      Affiliate Transaction gain   $ —     $ —     $ 133.1     $ —  
      Investment and other income – Realized gains on EQT shares     —       —       29.6       —  
      Affiliate Transactions, pre-tax     —       —       162.7       —  
      Income taxes     —       —       (40.6 )     —  
      Affiliate Transactions, after-tax   $ —     $ —     $ 122.1     $ —  
     

    Forward-Looking Statements and Other Matters

    Certain matters discussed in this press release issued by Affiliated Managers Group, Inc. (“AMG” or the “Company”) may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements related to our expectations regarding the performance of our business, our financial results, our liquidity and capital resources, and other non-historical statements. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as “outlook,” “guidance,” “believes,” “expects,” “potential,” “preliminary,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “approximately,” “predicts,” “projects,” “positioned,” “prospects,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “pending investments,” “anticipates,” or the negative version of these words or other comparable words. Actual results and the timing of certain events could differ materially from those projected in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including changes in the securities or financial markets or in general economic conditions, the availability of equity and debt financing, competition for acquisitions of interests in investment management firms, uncertainties relating to closing of pending investments or transactions and potential changes in the anticipated benefits thereof, the investment performance and growth rates of our Affiliates and their ability to effectively market their investment strategies, the mix of Affiliate contributions to our earnings, and other risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including those described under the section entitled “Risk Factors” in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Such factors may be updated from time to time in our periodic filings with the SEC. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this release and in our filings with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

    This release does not constitute an offer of any products, investment vehicles, or services of any AMG Affiliate.

    From time to time, AMG may use its website as a distribution channel of material Company information. AMG routinely posts financial and other important information regarding the Company in the Investor Relations section of its website at www.amg.com and encourages investors to consult that section regularly.

    Investor and Media Relations
    Patricia Figueroa
    +1 (617) 747-3300
    ir@amg.com
    pr@amg.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Descartes Showcases Global Trade Intelligence Technology Innovations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Descartes Systems Group (Nasdaq:DSGX) (TSX:DSG), the global leader in uniting logistics-intensive businesses in commerce, is scheduled to showcase numerous technology innovations to its global trade intelligence software suite at Descartes’ Innovation Forum event, which takes place in Washington, DC from February 11-12, 2025. Innovations to Descartes’ solution suite help companies in diverse industries manage the cross-border trade of merchandise, commodities and services more securely and efficiently in the face of expanding compliance requirements, geopolitical volatility, and evolving tariffs and trade barriers.

    “The current environment of ever-changing and complex trade regulations is challenging to manage. Our solutions and trade data help simplify how our customers’ teams conduct business while helping them mitigate risk,” said Brian Hodgson, General Manager, Trade Intelligence at Descartes. “Our technology innovations are focused on helping companies build more agile, intelligent and resilient supply chain networks that allow them to keep pace with frequent and complex tariff and regulatory changes, secure better sources of supply, and acquire high quality competitive intelligence.”

    Descartes’ global trade intelligence innovation and enhancements include:

    • Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled screening and classification to scale compliance operations. AI-driven screening for restricted, sanctioned and denied parties quarantines low-quality false positives and identifies when additional due diligence is required. AI-driven import/export classification accelerates product lookup capabilities in combination with other features such as regulations cross-referencing and landed cost calculations. Both innovations help companies more efficiently access and manage high volume, repetitive tasks without overloading existing compliance resources or adding new staff.
    • AI-based agent to speed complex global trade intelligence queries. Converse in multiple languages with an AI-based agent to answer common questions; quickly identify historical trade patterns, emerging trends, or specific data needs (e.g., commodities, companies, products); and receive text- and/or graph-based responses. This helps users define searches more precisely, ensuring they extract the most relevant global trade data and that it’s presented effectively. It makes global trade data content more accessible and actionable, while minimizing the training time required to build proficiency in developing optimal queries.
    • Expanded global trade content offerings to simplify more wholistic risk assessments. Combining traditional Harmonized System (HS)-based trade data content with both optional experience-based content, such as previously classified products, and timely innovative-based content, such as legislation and/or regulations, provides companies with a broader content ecosystem to facilitate efficient and effective risk assessment associated with product, party or shipment compliance.
    • Enhanced analytics to generate insights and inform strategic, evidence-based decision making. Advanced Microsoft Power BI-based analytics aggregates data from screening applications and other sources (e.g., visitor management, license management, other operational systems) to provide a single reporting view. Companies no longer need to rely on complicated integrations between applications to access sophisticated analytics that provide useful insight into their compliance activities, particularly in large enterprises.
    • Expanded capabilities to manage increasing export controls and complexities around export license management. Expanded set of East Asian countries for compliance checks and license determinations, in addition to enhanced workflows and data sharing capabilities for very complex controlled goods businesses (e.g., aerospace and defense), which help companies better manage compliance with local laws, international agreements and security protocols.

    Learn more about Descartes’ Global Trade Intelligence solutions.

    Descartes’ Innovation Forum events offer a unique opportunity for Descartes customers and United by Design partners worldwide to connect with the Descartes team. These forums aim to share best practices in using Descartes’ technologies, explore ways to enhance operations with Descartes’ expanding solutions, and gather valuable feedback on product development. More information on the Global Trade Intelligence event is available here.

    About Descartes

    Descartes (Nasdaq:DSGX) (TSX:DSG) is the global leader in providing on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions focused on improving the productivity, security and sustainability of logistics-intensive businesses. Customers use our modular, software-as-a-service solutions to route, track and help improve the safety, performance and compliance of delivery resources; plan, allocate and execute shipments; rate, audit and pay transportation invoices; access global trade data; file customs and security documents for imports and exports; and complete numerous other logistics processes by participating in the world’s largest, collaborative multimodal logistics community. Our headquarters are in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and we have offices and partners around the world. Learn more at www.descartes.com, and connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

    Global Media Contact
    Cara Strohack                                                                     
    Tel: 226-750-8050                                 
    cstrohack@descartes.com  

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws (“forward-looking statements”) that relate to Descartes’ global trade intelligence solution offerings and potential benefits derived therefrom; and other matters. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, the factors and assumptions discussed in the section entitled, “Certain Factors That May Affect Future Results” in documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Ontario Securities Commission and other securities commissions across Canada including Descartes’ most recently filed management’s discussion and analysis. If any such risks actually occur, they could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. In that case, the trading price of our common shares could decline, perhaps materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purposes of providing information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. We do not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in our expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitmaster Revolutionizes Crypto Trading with AI and MCS Token Integration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitmaster, an advanced cryptocurrency trading platform, is transforming digital asset trading through AI-driven automation and MCS token integration. By combining real-time analytics with automated trading strategies, Bitmaster provides a more efficient, secure, and accessible trading environment for both beginners and professional traders.

    Bitmaster leverages AI-based trading signals to analyze the market and execute automated trades, allowing users to seize real-time opportunities while minimizing risks. Additionally, MCS tokens offer benefits such as reduced transaction fees, automated trading functionality, staking rewards, and access to premium trading tools, enhancing the overall user experience.

    New users can enjoy a 3-day free premium membership trial and receive 10 MCS tokens, allowing them to explore the platform’s various features. Premium features include Signal Master and Auto Master, which enhance trading precision. Signal Master provides trading signals for Bitcoin futures, supporting users with accurate trading strategies. Auto Master, which is currently under development, will enable automated trading based on Signal Master’s insights. Additionally, within the app, users can participate in the Up & Down Prediction Game, where they predict Bitcoin futures price movements (UP or DOWN). Successful predictions reward users with 1.9 times the MCS amount wagered. The 10 MCS tokens received can also be sent to LBank for trading or converted to USDT for withdrawal.

    Bitmaster is focusing on enhancing liquidity, improving market accessibility, and strengthening its presence in the global cryptocurrency ecosystem. To achieve this, the company is expanding strategic partnerships and collaborating with leading global exchanges to provide diverse fiat on-ramp options and region-specific trading solutions. Additionally, Bitmaster is increasing accessibility by offering multi-language support and localized customer service to better serve its global user base. These initiatives ensure that users can trade in a seamless and secure environment through trusted exchange partnerships.

    Bitmaster operates various user-centric incentive programs to encourage active participation and trading. MCS airdrops provide additional benefits to both new and existing users, driving engagement within the platform. This encourages continuous trading activity, allowing users to earn more rewards within the Bitmaster ecosystem. Additionally, promotional campaigns offer extra benefits, ensuring long-term user retention. Incentives such as MCS airdrops, referral programs with up to 30% commission, and ICO bonuses of up to 40% play a crucial role in increasing user engagement and supporting the platform’s sustained growth.

    Bitmaster continues to set new standards in AI-driven innovation and blockchain technology, driving automation and data-driven trading. As the platform evolves, it aims to deliver an intuitive, efficient, and rewarding trading experience for global users, solidifying its leadership in the cryptocurrency trading industry.

    For more details: https://buly.kr/Ezi4D52

    Contact Information

    Company Name: Bitmaster
    Contact Person: Evelyn
    Contact Person Title: Contents Manager
    Email: mr.mcs@bitmaster.pro
    Phone Number: +82 1039824189
    Company Website: https://bitmaster.pro/

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Bitmaster. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the sponsor and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in cloud mining and related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/efe81893-9e0b-4e13-8c27-8d4e63bce156

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3288772b-ccfb-4ab2-aff0-17d97f476168

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5f212ffe-9120-4f2e-aa45-9eed813dcb99

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Reducing air pollution could increase methane emissions from wetlands – here’s what needs to be done

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Vincent Gauci, Professorial Fellow, School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Science, University of Birmingham

    Sampling in a Pantanal lake, Brazil. Vincent Gauci, CC BY-NC-ND

    What if well-meaning policies that reduce one atmospheric pollutant could also increase natural emissions of powerful greenhouse gases?

    Our findings, just published in the journal Science Advances, advance an earlier discovery of one such unfortunate interaction. This means that we need to work much harder than we thought to stay within the safe climate limits of the Paris agreement.

    The atmospheric pollutant in question is sulphur. Its current and projected decline from clean air policies aimed at reducing acid rain and fine particles, coupled with direct effects of increasing atmospheric CO₂ and warming, will lead to larger natural wetland methane emissions than expected.

    This is because sulphur has a very specific effect in natural wetlands that reduces methane emissions. On the other hand, CO₂ boosts methane production by increasing growth in plants that make the food for methane-producing microbes.

    Put simply, sulphur provides the conditions for one set of bacteria to outmuscle another set of microbes that produce methane over limited available food in wetlands. Under the conditions of acid rain sulphur pollution during the past century, this was enough to reduce wetland methane emissions by up to 8%.

    If we lift this sulphur “lid” on wetland methane production and increase CO₂, we have a double whammy effect that pushes wetland emissions much higher.

    We first discovered this effect in the early 2000s with field experiments that simulated acid rain sulphur pollution in the peatlands of North America, Scotland and Scandinavia. Further similar experiments took place on methane-emitting rice.

    Now, more than 20 years on, we have better modelling approaches that allow us to use improved estimates of the future of sulphur pollution and CO₂ for a range of scenarios. This allows us to link these back to methane emissions.

    A water hyacinth meadow in the Pantanal, Brazil.
    Vincent Gauci, CC BY-NC-ND

    The effect is substantial and we estimate that these different factors, in combination, will mean that policy instruments like the global methane pledge, which addresses anthropogenic emissions of methane, may need to work much harder.

    More than 150 nations signed up to the global methane pledge at the UN climate summit, Cop26, in Glasgow. The pledge seeks to reduce emissions of anthropogenic methane by 30% on a 2020 baseline by 2030.

    If successful, the climate benefit can be substantial (methane is around 30-80 times more potent than CO₂ as a greenhouse gas) and fast-acting. This is because methane only lasts in the atmosphere for around 10 years, leading to a rapid 0.2°C climate dividend by 2050.



    Read more:
    Methane is pitched as a climate villain – could changing how we think about it make it a saviour?

    However, our findings show that between 8% and 15% of the allowable space for these human-made emissions is disappearing. This is due to the climate, CO₂ fertilisation, and sulphur unmasking effects. So, larger cuts are needed to achieve the same Paris climate targets.

    This isn’t the first time that the loss of an apparent broad climate-cooling action of atmospheric sulphur has been implicated in driving warming at a faster rate than anticipated.

    Drainage canal in the Kampar peat swamp forest, Sumatra, Indonesia.
    Vincent Gauci, CC BY-NC-ND

    In 2020, shipping pollution controls were introduced globally to reduce emissions of sulphur dioxide and fine particles that are harmful to human health. This reduction in atmospheric sulphur over the oceans has been implicated in larger warming effects than expected in what has come to be known as “termination shock”.

    Part of the warming effect of emitted CO₂ is effectively masked by cooling sulphate particles in the atmosphere. If the source of the sulphate is stopped, the remaining sulphur in the atmosphere drops out rapidly, unmasking the warming effect of the CO₂ which lasts over 100 years in the atmosphere. For natural wetlands the unmasking effect on methane emissions can take a little longer, more a “termination rebound” than shock – but it soon catches up.

    Intentional interventions?

    So what can be done? In another paper recently published in Global Change Biology, scientists propose direct intervention in natural wetland methane emissions through adding sulphate to these ecosystems, essentially – and this time deliberately – replacing the sulphate lid on the wetland methane source. This raises questions about what a natural wetland actually is.

    Acacia plantation on former peat swamp forest after harvest, Sumatra, Indonesia.
    Vincent Gauci, CC BY-NC-ND

    What are the environmental ethics of deliberately intervening in this manner for ecosystems that are only just recovering from past incidental pollution effects? In emitting methane, they are, ultimately, just performing their natural function and should be protected for the vast carbon stores they contain and the valuable biodiversity that makes these ecosystems their home.

    So, we need to go back to the framework set up by the global methane pledge which is prompting much innovation to reduce human emissions from fossil fuel industries, waste and agriculture. We need to work harder on emissions first and foremost while also considering technologies to actively remove methane from the atmosphere.

    Atmospheric methane removal technologies are a new and under-investigated approach to managing atmospheric methane and they could be as simple as growing more trees.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Vincent Gauci receives funding from or has received funding from the Natural Environment Research Council, The Royal Society, Spark Climate Solutions, Axa Research Fund, Defra.

    Lu Shen receives funding from National Natural Science Foundation of China.

    – ref. Reducing air pollution could increase methane emissions from wetlands – here’s what needs to be done – https://theconversation.com/reducing-air-pollution-could-increase-methane-emissions-from-wetlands-heres-what-needs-to-be-done-246723

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Media briefing held by Olympic Council of Asia, Harbin Asian Winter Games Organizing Committee

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Media briefing held by Olympic Council of Asia, Harbin Asian Winter Games Organizing Committee

    Updated: February 6, 2025 19:03 Xinhua
    Bai Zhiguo, chief spokesperson of the Harbin Asian Winter Games Organizing Committee (HAWGOC) speaks during a media briefing held by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and HAWGOC in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 6, 2025. A media briefing is held by the OCA and HAWGOC here on Thursday. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Song Luzeng, vice president of Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), speaks during a media briefing held by the OCA and Harbin Asian Winter Games Organizing Committee (HAWGOC) in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Sultan Al Busaidi, chair of medical committee of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) speaks during a media briefing held by the OCA and Harbin Asian Winter Games Organizing Committee (HAWGOC) in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A reporter asks questions at a media briefing held by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and Harbin Asian Winter Games Organizing Committee (HAWGOC) in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Zhou Wei, deputy director of ceremonies & events department and spokesperson of the Harbin Asian Winter Games Organizing Committee (HAWGOC), speaks during a media briefing held by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and HAWGOC in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on Feb. 6, 2025 shows a media briefing held by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and Harbin Asian Winter Games Organizing Committee (HAWGOC) in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Husain Al Musallam, director general of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), speaks during a media briefing held by the OCA and Harbin Asian Winter Games Organizing Committee (HAWGOC) in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 6, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on Feb. 6, 2025 shows a media briefing held by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and Harbin Asian Winter Games Organizing Committee (HAWGOC) in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi to attend opening ceremony of 9th Asian Winter Games

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, Feb. 6 — Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games on Feb. 7 in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, a foreign ministry spokesperson announced on Thursday.

    Xi will also host a welcome banquet for foreign leaders attending the opening ceremony, including Sultan of Brunei Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister of Thailand Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and National Assembly Speaker of the Republic of Korea Woo Won-shik.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Status of projects under PM-DevINE scheme

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 4:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Since the inception of PM-DevINE in October 2022, a total of 36 projects worth Rs. 4927.22 crore have been sanctioned up to 31.01.2025. Of these, two projects worth Rs.121.21 crore have already been completed. Status of the projects sanctioned under PM-DevINE is at Annexure.

    Projects sanctioned under PM-DevINE include those relating to education, health, tourism, connectivity and livelihood, which directly or indirectly improve basic minimum services to the people.

    ****

    Annexure

     “STATUS OF PROJECTS UNDER PMDEVINE SCHEME”

    As on 31.01.2025

    S.No.

    Name of the project

    State Govt./Agency

    Status

    1

    Gap funding for Passenger Ropeway System from Pelling to Sanga-Choeling in West Sikkim – at the cost of Rs. 63.39 Crore (58%) of total cost of Rs.108.39 Crore

    Sikkim

    Work completed

    2

    Gap funding for Eco-friendly Passenger Ropeway (Cable Car) from Dhapper to Bhaleydhunga in South Sikkim – at the cost of Rs. 57.82 Crore (28%) of total cost of Rs. 209.57 Crore

    Sikkim

    Work completed

    3

    Pilot project for the construction of Bamboo Link Roads at different locations in various districts in the State of Mizoram –  (i) Tuirial Airfield to North Chaltlang (18 km) at a cost of Rs. 33.58 Crore; and (ii) Lengpui to Saiphal Bamboo Plantation (41 km) at a cost of Rs. 66.42 crore

    Mizoram

    Work awarded

    4

    NECTAR Livelihood Improvement Project (Multi-State) – Utilization of Banana Pseudo Stem for Value-Added Products

    NECTAR

    Work awarded

    5

    Promoting Scientific Organic Agriculture in North-East India (Multi-State)

    NECTAR

    Work awarded

    6

    Livelihood projects relating to Special Development of Eastern Nagaland – (22 Nos.)

    Nagaland

    Work awarded

    7

    Transformation of 20 schools as Centre of Excellence in the Kamrup District

    Assam

    Work awarded

    8

    Establishment of Dedicated Services for the Management of Paediatric and Adult Haematolymphoid Cancers in North East India, Guwahati

    BBCI Guwahati

    Work awarded

    9

    Establishment of Solar Micro Grid for supply of reliable power to Remote Habitations in Tripura by Department of Power, Government of Tripura

    Tripura

    Work awarded

    10

    Development of Maa Kamakhya Access Corridor at Guwahati, Assam

    Assam

    Work awarded

    11

    Construction of Medical College (100 Admissions) at Sivasagar District, Assam

    Assam

    Work awarded

    12

    Construction of IT Park at Tura, West Garo Hills District

    Meghalaya

    Work awarded

    13

    Development of Infrastructure for Manipur Technical University (MTU), Imphal West District

    Manipur

    Work awarded

    14

    Establishment of 200 bedded MCH (Maternal & Child Health) wing at AGMC & GBP Hospital

    Tripura

    Work awarded

    15

    Setting up of Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for drug addicted.

    Tripura

    Work awarded

    16

    Upgradation/widening of existing 2 lane road to 4 lane road connecting LGB International Airport – From VIP junction to Dharapur Junction, including (i) 4 lane grade separated junction at Dharapur (ii) 2 lane excess road from SOS junction to existing terminal building and (iii) 2 lane temporary exit from existing terminal building. (PWD)

    Assam

    Work awarded

    17

    Establishment of Dental College at Agartala

    Tripura

    Work awarded

    18

    Construction of new four-lane road and conversion of existing two-lane road into four-lane with cycling tracks, utility ducts, footpaths, etc. at New Shillong Township

    Meghalaya

    Work awarded

    19

    Development of Infrastructure of the Processing Zone of Manipur IT SEZ at Mantripukhri, Imphal

    Manipur

    Work awarded

    20

    Construction and Equipping of 60 Bedded State Mental Hospital in Manipur

    Manipur

    Work awarded

    21

    Construction of Aizawl By-pass road on Western Side

    Mizoram

    Work awarded

    22

    Proposal to set up a Digital Design and 3D Printing Center of Excellence in the Electronic Mfg. Cluster (EMC) in collaboration with other Govt Agencies at Tech City, Guwahati

    AMTRON

    Work awarded

    23

    Construction of 220/132 kV (2×100 MVA) & 132/33 kV (2×50 MVA) Sub-station at Tsitrongse-Dimapur with associated lines

    Nagaland

    Work awarded

    24

    Skywalk Project at Bhaleydhunga, Yangang in South Sikkim

    Sikkim

    Work awarded

    25

    Conversion of Singshore Bridge as a glass skywalk bridge for tourist attraction in West Sikkim

    Sikkim

    Work awarded

    26

    Establishment of State Cancer Institute at Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Work awarded

    27

    Infrastructure Development for Dhanamanjuri University (DMU)

    Manipur

    Work awarded

    28

    Educational Infrastructure/facility  Development in Polytechnics

    Nagaland

    Work awarded

    29

    Upgradation of the Radiation Oncology Centre at CIHSR

    Nagaland

    Work awarded

    30

    Establishment of a Skill Development Centre at Dr. B. Borooah Cancer Institute (BBCI), Guwahati, Assam

    BBCI Guwahati

    Work awarded

    31

    Establishment of an Artist’s Village for promotion of world’s most unique Pottery Art form Longpi Black Pottery of Manipur

    NEHHDC

    Work awarded

    32

    Infrastructure development for Manipur University of Culture at Wakha, Imphal East.

    Manipur

    Work not awarded

    33

    Development of Skywalk and Tourist hub at Mawkdok, Sohra

    Meghalaya

    Work not awarded

    34

    Providing super speciality and assured specialty health care in remote and hill districts (Infrastructure & Equipment) in Manipur

    Manipur                                

    Work not awarded

    35

    Gap funding for the Medical College at  Sichey, East Sikkim for Annual Intake of 100 Students

    Sikkim

    Work awarded

    36

    Gap funding for Passenger Ropeway for at Shillong Peak Ropeway project, Shillong, Meghalaya

    Meghalaya

    Work not awarded

     

    AMTRON: Assam Electronics Development Corporation Ltd.

    BBCI: Dr. Bhubaneswar Borooah Cancer Institute.

    NECTAR: North East Centre for Technology Application & Reach

    NEHHDC: North Eastern Handicrafts & Handlooms Development Corporation Limited

    This information was given by the Minister of State, for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: TRAI releases recommendations on ‘Revision of National Numbering Plan’

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 4:12PM by PIB Delhi

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has today issued recommendations on ‘Revision of National Numbering Plan’.

      Telecommunication Identifiers (TIs)/ Numbering resources are used to uniquely identify a telecom user, service, network elements, equipment, or an authorised entity. In today’s interconnected digital landscape, where billions of devices and users are required to be addressed, sufficient availability and efficient utilisation of numbering resources (TIs) are essential for ensuring universal accessibility and reliable delivery of telecommunication services to consumers, businesses, and industries.

    TRAI had received a reference letter No. 16-16/2022-AS-III/123/233 dated 29.9.2022 from DoT seeking recommendations to address constraints related to the availability of adequate fixed line numbering resources arising out of rapid growth and the revised National Numbering Plan. DoT had also requested examination and recommendations on the aspects related to the Fixed-line numbering Scheme, level ‘1’ short-codes numbering resources, Service Control Point (SCP) codes, National Signalling Point (SP) Codes for signalling, Mobile Country Code-Mobile Network Code (MCC-MNC) for Captive Non-Public Network (CNPN), M2M numbering resources, Intelligent Network Services, and Number Portability Codes (Location Routing Number).

     Accordingly, TRAI issued a Consultation Paper on ‘Revision of National Numbering Plan’ on 06thJune 2024.The comments and counter-comments received from various stakeholders are available on the TRAI website. In this regard, an Open House Discussion (OHD) was held on 08th October 2024 through video conference.

     Based on the comments/ inputs received from the stakeholders during the consultation process, discussions held during OHD, and further analysis of the issues, the Authority has finalised Recommendations on ‘Revision of National Numbering Plan’.

      The salient features of the recommendations are as follows: –

    1. Charges on numbering resources – 
    1. No additional charge or financial disincentive on numbering resources has been recommended at this stage.

     

    1. DoT to monitor the annual usage of numbering resources allocated to TSPs and if required, may withdraw unutilized numbering resources.

     

    1. To addressnumbering resource constraints in Fixed-line Services –

     

    1. Migrate from Short Distance Charging Area (SDCA)(mostly Taluka/Tehsil) to License Service Area (LSA)based 10-digit closed numbering scheme for fixed-line services to unlock numbering resources currently restricted to SDCA level.
    2. Dial all fixed-line to fixed-line calls using a prefix of ‘0’, followed by the STD code and the subscriber number.
    3. The dialling pattern for fixed-to-mobile, mobile-to-fixed, and mobile-to-mobile calls will remain unchanged.
    4. Existing subscriber numbers remain unchanged.
    5. Six months to implement the new numbering scheme.
    6. Post implementation of the LSA-based 10-digit closed numbering scheme, a 10-digit fixed-line numbering scheme using a Fixed-line Location Routing Number (FLRN) code should be adoptedwithin a maximum period of five years, resulting in nationwide availability of LSA-based numbering resources. This would facilitate implementing fixed-line number portability (as is presently available in the Mobile network) in the near future.
    1. Inhibit UCC (Unsolicited Commercial Communication), Spam calls and CLI spoofing

     

    1. DoT to implement TRAI recommendations on ‘Introduction of Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) Service in Indian Telecommunication Network’ dated 23.02.2024 at the earliest including expeditious implementation of CNAP supplementary services for all SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) and PRI (Primary Rate Interface) Calls terminating on mobile networks.
    2. To stop CLI (Call Line Identification) spoofing and tampering, the CLI Authentication framework and Distributed Certification Authority framework should be implemented in accordance with ITU recommendations Q.3057 and Q.3062, respectively.

     

    1. Timeline for deactivation of numbering resources for mobile and Fixedline connections –

     

    1. No mobile or fixed-line connections shall be deactivated by the TSPs until 90 days of the non-usage period expires.
    1. All mobile and fixed-line connections that remain inactive due to non-usage shall be mandatorily deactivated by the TSPs after 365 days post-expiration of 90 days of the non-usage period.
    1. Numbering resources for Mobile and Machine-to-Machine (M2M) –

     

    1. 13-digit M2M numbering resources sufficient enough to meet both current and future demands.
    1. DoT to expeditiously implement the accepted TRAI recommendation stating that all the SIM-based M2M connections using 10-digit mobile numbering series should be shifted to the 13-digit M2M communication.
    1. Other numbering resources –Level-1 shortcodes–
    1. To be allocated free of charge and to Government entities only.
    1. Conduct annual utilisation audit of shortcodes. Inactive shortcodes be withdrawn on merit, in consultation with the user entities.

                The recommendations have been placed on TRAI’s website www.trai.gov.in.

                For any clarification/information Shri Abdul Kayum, Advisor (Broadband and Policy Analysis), TRAI may be contacted at Tel. No. +91-11-20907757.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Space Sector Reforms have unlocked India’s Commercial Potential in Space,” says Minister of State for Space Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India (2)

    “Space Sector Reforms have unlocked India’s Commercial Potential in Space,” says Minister of State for Space Dr. Jitendra Singh

    New Space India Limited (NSIL) to Launch GSAT-N3 in Q1 2026 for Indian Government’s S-Band Communication Needs with N1 being already operational and N2 in orbit testing

    NSIL to Launch India’s First Fully Industry-Made PSLV in Q2 2025

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 4:09PM by PIB Delhi

     “Space sector reforms have unlocked India’s Commercial Potential in Space,” says Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions while answering an unstarred question in Rajya Sabha, today.

    NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), a Public Sector Enterprise (PSE) under Department of Space and the commercial arm of ISRO incorporated during March 2019, is responsible for carrying out end-to-end commercial space business on a demand driven approach and has the mandate to enhance the participation of Indian Industries in space related activities.

    The  achievements of the NSIL are as follows:

    • NSIL undertook its 1st Demand Driven Communication satellite mission named GSAT-N1 [GSAT-24] for meeting Direct-To-Home (DTH) needs. The satellite was successfully launched on 23rd June 2022, and it has commenced its operational services.
    • NSIL undertook its 2nd Demand Driven Communication satellite mission, GSAT-N2 [GSAT-20], for meeting Broadband service needs. The satellite was successfully launched on 19th November 2024 and the satellite is presently undergoing in-orbit testing and commissioning operations.
    • As on date, NSIL has successfully launched of 124 International and 3 Indian customer satellites on-board PSLV, LVM3 and SSLV.
    • NSIL is currently owning/ operating 15 in-orbit communication satellites and providing space-based services to various Indian users for meeting their DTH, VSAT, TV, DSNG, IFMC, Broadband and other applications need.
    • NSIL has been disseminating Earth Observation satellite data to global customers since May 2023.
    • As part of Mission Support services, NSIL has provided Eleven (11) Launch Vehicle Tracking Supports and Nine (9) Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP) and Telemetry Tracking and Command (TTC) supports to Indian and International Customers including one Deep Space Mission Support.
    • Towards transfer of ISRO developed Technologies to Indian Industry, NSIL has signed 75 Technology Transfer Agreements.
    • NSIL is closely working with Indian and global customers to build Communication and Earth Observation Satellites for meeting their service needs.
    • NSIL is a profit-making company. NSIL’s revenue since inception is indicated below:

                                                                                                                                (Rs. in crores)

    Particulars

    FY

    2019-20

    FY

    2020-21

    FY

    2021-22

    FY

    2022-23

    FY

    2023-24

    Revenue from Operations

    314.52

    513.31

    1674.77

    2842.26

    2116.12

    Other Income

    7.25

    12.40

    57.08

    98.16

    279.08

    Total Revenue

    321.77

    525.71

    1731.84

    2940.42

    2395.20

    Total Expenditure

    253.20

    312.87

    1272.69

    2324.07

    1591.60

    Profit before Tax

    68.57

    212.84

    459.15

    616.35

    803.59

     

    Dr. Singh Informed that NSIL will be undertaking its 3rd Demand Driven Communication Satellite Mission, GSAT-N3, for meeting S-Band communication needs of Indian Governmental users. GSAT-N3 satellite is proposed to be launched during Q1 of 2026.

    NSIL signed contract with M/s HAL [Lead Partner of M/s HAL and L&T consortia] for End-to-End production of 5 Nos. of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). The 1st fully Indian Industry manufactured PSLV is envisaged to be launched during Q2 of 2025.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh shared that in the coming years, NSIL would strive to further expand its commercial space business in all domains including in the area of building satellites and launch vehicles; providing launch services; establishing ground segment; providing space-based services using communication and earth observation satellites; mission support services and transfer of ISRO developed technologies to Indian industries. Some of the major business projects that NSIL is envisaging is building several communication satellites on demand driven model, exploring strategies to realise LVM3 rockets through Indian Industry under PPP mode of partnership to commercially exploit the emerging global launch service market, enabling private Indian industries in building several earth observation satellites etc.

    Lauding the Space Sector Reforms announced by the Government during June 2020, as part of “Unlocking India’s potential in Space Sector”, Dr. Singh said, “It has enabled NSIL to undertake missions in a Demand Driven Model for effective commercial exploitation. In addition, efforts of NSIL to build operational launch vehicles of ISRO viz., PSLV, LVM3 and SSLV through Indian Industry would further boost the Indian Industrial sector to grow to the level wherein Indian industry could End-to-End manufacture rockets. The Minister of State for Space, further stated that efforts of NSIL to transfer ISRO developed technologies to Private players would help in enriching the Space ecosystem in the country and raise India’s share in the commercial Global Space Market.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Awareness campaign organized under ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ at Government Girls Hostel, Betul, Madhya Pradesh

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 4:11PM by PIB Delhi

    On completion of 10 years of ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ campaign, an awareness campaign was organized at Government Girls Hostel in Betul, Madhya Pradesh.

     

     

    During this campaign, girls were given information on POCSO Act, Child Helpline (1098), One Stop Center services and menstrual hygiene management.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh highlights steps taken by Government to Boost Women’s Participation in STEM

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that Department of Science and Technology (DST) is implementing the ‘Women in Science and Engineering-KIRAN (WISE-KIRAN)’ scheme to promote women’s participation in STEM fields while replying to an unstarred question in Rajya Sabha Today.

    According to the written reply, the Minister enlisted various steps taken by government in detail-

    Fellowship Programmes to Support Women in Research

    • WISE-PhD Fellowship: Supports women in pursuing research in basic and applied sciences.
    • WISE-Post Doctoral Fellowship (WISE-PDF) & WISE-SCOPE: Encourages women to pursue postdoctoral research.
    • WIDUSHI Programme: Helps senior women scientists, including retired and unemployed professionals, continue their research careers.

    WISE-IPR: Training Women in Intellectual Property Rights

    The WISE Internship in IPR (WISE-IPR) offers a one-year on-the-job training in Intellectual Property Rights for women.

    Vigyan Jyoti: Inspiring Young Girls to Join STEM

    The Vigyan Jyoti programme mentors’ meritorious girls in Class IX-XII, encouraging them to pursue higher education and careers in STEM fields where female participation is low.

    BioCARe Fellowship: Empowering Women in Biotechnology

    The BioCARe Fellowship by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) supports women scientists in biotechnology and allied fields, helping them establish a strong research career.

    NIDHI: Supporting Women-Led Startups in Technology

    The National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) provides women entrepreneurs with:

    • Capacity building, incubation facilities, mentorship, and early-stage funding.
    • NIDHI-Seed Support Program (NIDHI-SSP): Early-stage seed funding for startups, including women-led ventures.

    Technology Business Incubators in Women’s Universities

    DST has established Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) in:

    • Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women (IGDTUW), Delhi
    • Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (SPMVV), Tirupati
      Additionally, an Inclusive Technology Business Incubator (iTBI) has been set up at Delhi Technological University (DTU), Delhi, focusing on gender, caste, and geographical inclusivity in entrepreneurship.

    GATI: Driving Gender Equality in Research Institutions

    The Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions (GATI) programme under WISE-KIRAN promotes gender-sensitive policies in research institutions to increase women’s representation in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine).

    Women Scientist Scheme (WOS): Reviving Careers and Driving Research

    • WOS-A: Supports women returning to research in basic and applied sciences.
    • WOS-B: Enables women scientists to provide S&T solutions to societal challenges.
    • WOS-C: Trains women in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), with 523 women supported in the last 10 years, of whom 40% are now registered Patent Agents.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that 2076 women scientists have benefited under WOS-A, with 40% completing PhDs and publishing 5000+ research papers.

    “These initiatives collectively empower women to excel in STEM fields, research, and entrepreneurship, creating a more inclusive scientific ecosystem in India”, says Dr. Singh

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterates government’s commitment to “Zero Tolerance Against Corruption” and highlights various steps taken to curb it

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterates government’s commitment to “Zero Tolerance Against Corruption” and highlights various steps taken to curb it

    The amendment to Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 in the year 2018 criminalizes the act of giving bribe creates a liability not just on bribe taker but also on bribe giver highlights Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:42PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singhreiterates government’s commitment to “Zero Tolerance Against Corruption” and highlights various steps taken to curb it while answering to an unstarred question in Rajya Sabha, today.

    The Minister of State for DoPT, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the steps undertaken by the government as mentioned below-

    i. Systemic improvements and reforms to provide transparent citizen-friendly services and reduce corruption. These, inter alia, include: a) Disbursement of welfare benefits directly to the citizens under various schemes of the Government in a transparent manner through the Direct Benefit Transfer initiative. b) Implementation of E-tendering in public procurements. c) Introduction of e-Governance and simplification of procedure and systems. d) Introduction of Government procurement through the Government eMarketplace (GeM).

     ii. Discontinuation of interviews in recruitment of Group ‘B’ (Non-Gazetted) and Group ‘C’ posts in Government of India.

     iii. Invocation of FR-56(j) and AIS(DCRB) Rules, 1958 for retiring officials from service in public interest whose performance has been reviewed and found unsatisfactory.

     iv. The All India Services (Disciplinary and Appeal) Rules and Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules have been amended to provide for specific timelines in the procedure related to disciplinary proceedings.

    v. The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 has been amended on 26.07.2018. It clearly criminalizes the act of giving bribe and will help check big ticket corruption by creating a vicarious liability in respect of senior management of commercial organizations.

    vi. Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), through various orders and circulars recommended adoption of Integrity Pact to all the organizations in major procurement activities and to ensure effective and expeditious investigation wherever any irregularity/misconduct is noticed.

    vii. The institution of Lokpal has been operationalised by appointment of Chairperson and Members. Lokpal is statutorily mandated to directly receive and process complaints as regards alleged offences against public servants under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. In addition, the CVC as an apex integrity institution has adopted a multi-pronged strategy and approach to combat corruption, which encompasses punitive, preventive and participative vigilance.

    (c): The Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014 (No. 17 of 2014) has been notified on 12th May 2014. In terms of provision of sub-section (3) of section 1 of the Act, the provisions of the Act shall come into force on such date as the Central Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, appoint. No such notification has been made by the Government for the reason that the Act required amendments aimed at safeguarding against disclosures affecting sovereignty and integrity of India, Security of the State, etc., before it is brought into force. The government introduced the Whistle Blowers Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2015 in the Lok Sabha on 11th May 2015 which was passed by the Lok Sabha on 13th May 2015 and transmitted to the Rajya Sabha. The Bill has since lapsed upon the dissolution of the Sixteenth Lok Sabha.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “The GenomeIndia project, under Department of Biotechnology, ensures equitable representation in sample collection” says Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    “The GenomeIndia project, under Department of Biotechnology, ensures equitable representation in sample collection” says Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Approximately, 36.7% of the samples were collected from rural, 32.2 % were from urban and 31.1 % were from the tribal populations informs, Dr.  Singh

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:42PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that approximately 36.7% of the samples were collected from rural, 32.2 % were from urban and 31.1 % were from the tribal populations while answering the unstarred question in Rajya Sabha, today.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh affirmed that In the Genome India project, equitable representation from rural, urban and tribal population was ensured.

    The S&T minister also highlighted that in order to achieve this goal, the researchers involved in GenomeIndia project faced some challenges, as outlined below.

    • Geographic Accessibility: Reaching tribal remote regions to collect samples and gather data from these populations was difficult task.
    • Cultural and Socioeconomic Barriers: Overcoming socioeconomic and cultural barriers and convincing such populations for their participation in the project was challenging.
    • Lack of Awareness and Education: Rural and tribal populations are not having sufficient awareness of the benefits of genetic research, that led to misunderstandings about its purpose and value. Educating and convincing such populations was hard.
    • Data Representation and Bias: Rural and tribal populations were not easily accessible and on the contrary, urban populations were often more accessible and had greater awareness. Hence, removal of bias by ensuring participation of appropriate proportions of all types of populations was important.
    • Logistical Constraints: Insufficient accessibility to state-of-art healthcare infrastructure, laboratories, and skilled professionals in isolated regions made it challenging to collect samples and conduct blood parameter assessments.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh further informed that the GenomeIndia Team followed pre-planned strategies to overcome various challenges. He stated, “Nearby logistics hubs were established for sample transportation, and laboratories were approached in advance to prepare resources for handling a higher number of samples.”

    Additionally, partnerships with local healthcare institutions were formed to streamline data collection and improve accessibility. The involvement of local leaders and community representatives in interactions with rural and tribal populations helped mitigate cultural and socioeconomic barriers, build trust, and promote greater participation from these communities.

    Outreach programs and community engagement initiatives were conducted to raise awareness about the importance of genetic studies and assure participants of data confidentiality, dispelling myths and clarifying the goals of the GenomeIndia Project. Moderated campaigns were organized to ensure balanced inclusion of diverse groups. Logistic constraints in isolated regions were effectively handled through systematic planning, he added.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly calls on the President

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:39PM by PIB Delhi

    H.E. Mr Philemon Yang, President of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) called on the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (February 6, 2025). 

    Welcoming the President of the UN General Assembly to India, the President said that his Presidency of UNGA comes at a time when we are marking an important milestone of 80 years of establishment of the United Nations. 

    The President noted that the year 2025 will also see important UN conferences like the Fourth Conference on Financing for Development, and the Third UN Ocean Conference, etc. She assured him of India’s active and constructive participation at all these platforms. 

    The President emphasized the need for early and comprehensive reform of key multilateral bodies, including the UN Security Council, to make them reflective of contemporary global realities. 

    The President appreciated Mr Philemon Yang’s emphasis on science and data-driven approach to sustainable development, and his inclusive vision. She also commended his leadership in the adoption of the “Pact for the Future” at the Summit for the Future held in New York in September 2024. She said that India will continue to champion the causes of the Global South, including at the UN, guided by the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”. 

    The two leaders also discussed the close and friendly bilateral relations between India and Cameroon, which have grown steadily over the years, especially in development partnership and capacity building.  The President noted that India shares a special bond with Africa, and it was during India’s Presidency in 2023 that the African Union was included in G-20 as a permanent member.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Parliament Question: Steps To Bring More Area Under Green Cover

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

    Parliament Question: Steps To Bring More Area Under Green Cover

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Forest Policy (NFP) 1988 envisages the national goal to have a minimum of one-third of the total land area under forest or tree cover and two-thirds of the area under such cover in the hill and mountainous regions of the country.

    As per latest India State of Forest Report (ISFR) – 2023 published by Forest Survey of India (FSI), Dehradun, the total tree and forest cover of the country is 8,27,356.95 square kilometre which is 25.15% of the geographical area of the country. The tree and forest cover of the country has increased by 1445.81 square kilometre as compared with the previous assessment report of ISFR 2021.

    The State-wise details of India’s geographical area under tree and forest cover, as per ISFR 2023, is given below:

    (Area in sq. Km.)

    State/UTs

    Geographical

    Area

    Forest Cover

    Tree Cover

    Total Forest Cover including Tree Cover

    Andhra Pradesh

    1,62,922.57

    30,084.96

    5,340.02

    35,424.98

    Arunachal Pradesh

    83,743.22

    65,881.57

    1,201.63

    67,083.20

    Assam

    78,438.00

    28,313.55

    2,101.46

    30,415.01

    Bihar

    94,163.00

    7,532.45

    2,370.21

    9,902.66

    Chhattisgarh

    1,35,192.00

    55,811.75

    6,538.70

    62,350.45

    Delhi

    1,483.00

    195.28

    176.03

    371.31

    Goa

    3,702.00

    2,265.72

    257.82

    2,523.54

    Gujarat

    1,96,244.00

    15,016.64

    6,632.29

    21,648.93

    Haryana

    44,212.00

    1,614.26

    1,693.02

    3,307.28

    Himachal Pradesh

    55,673.00

    15,580.35

    855.07

    16,435.42

    Jharkhand

    79,716.00

    23,765.78

    3,637.55

    27,403.33

    Karnataka

    1,91,791.00

    39,254.27

    7,779.15

    47,033.42

    Kerala

    38,852.00

    22,059.36

    2,905.94

    24,965.30

    Madhya Pradesh

    3,08,252.11

    77,073.44

    8,650.14

    85,723.58

    Maharashtra

    3,07,713.00

    50,858.53

    14,524.88

    65,383.41

    Manipur

    22,327.00

    16,585.46

    209.82

    16,795.28

    Meghalaya

    22,429.00

    16,966.84

    720.56

    17,687.40

    Mizoram

    21,081.00

    17,990.46

    567.80

    18,558.26

    Nagaland

    16,579.00

    12,222.47

    394.02

    12,616.49

    Odisha

    1,55,707.00

    52,433.56

    6,163.45

    58,597.01

    Punjab

    50,362.00

    1,846.09

    1,475.15

    3,321.24

    Rajasthan

    3,42,238.99

    16,548.21

    10,841.12

    27,389.33

    Sikkim

    7,096.00

    3,358.40

    48.33

    3,406.73

    Tamil Nadu

    1,30,060.00

    26,450.22

    5,370.72

    31,820.94

    Telangana

    1,12,122.44

    21,179.04

    3,517.66

    24,696.70

    Tripura

    10,486.00

    7,584.77

    247.56

    7,832.33

    Uttar Pradesh

    2,40,927.56

    15,045.80

    8,950.92

    23,996.72

    Uttarakhand

    53,483.36

    24,303.83

    1,231.14

    25,534.97

    West Bengal

    88,752.00

    16,832.33

    2,938.12

    19,770.45

    A&N Islands

    8,249.00

    6,732.92

    26.97

    6,759.89

    Chandigarh

    114.00

    25.00

    21.18

    46.18

    Dadra & Nagar

    Haveli and Daman & Diu

     

    602.00

     

    225.62

     

    36.83

     

    262.45

    Jammu & Kashmir

    2,22,236.00

    21,346.39

    3,666.97

    25,013.36

    Ladakh

    2,285.92

    893.02

    3,178.94

    Lakshadweep

    29.63

    27.06

    0.20

    27.26

    Puducherry

    490.00

    44.31

    28.89

    73.20

    Total

    32,87,468.88

    7,15,342.61

    1,12,014.34

    8,27,356.95

     

    The protection and management of forests is primarily the responsibility of the State Government. The Government has formulated adequate legal and regulatory frameworks at national and state levels, which regulate the protection, conservation, and management of the forests of the country. The major central level policy and legislations concerning the management and conservation of forests include the National Forest Policy, 1988, Indian Forest Act, 1927, Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam 1980, and Biological Diversity Act, 2002, etc.

    To bring more areas under green cover, the Government is implementing various schemes such as such as National Mission for a Green India (GIM), Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats, Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), Nagar Van Yojana (NVY) and Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI). The schemes primarily support ecological restoration through afforestation in and outside forest areas, forest landscape restoration, habitat improvement, soil and water conservation measures and protection etc.

    The tree plantation campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” was launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 5th June 2024 to undertake plantation activities across the country.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE, SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH, in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

     

    VM

    (Rajya Sabha US Q367)

    (Release ID: 2100254)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Parliament Question: Mangrove Conservation In Coastal Areas

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:37PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government has taken a number of steps to protect and enhance mangrove forests in coastal States/Union Territories through regulatory and promotional measures. The regulatory measures include Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification (2019) under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972; the Indian Forest Act, 1927; the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and rules under these acts as amended from time to time.

    The promotional measures include “Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI)” – a new programme launched by the Government of India on 5th June 2023, in collaboration with coastal States and Union Territories to restore and promote mangroves for preserving and enhancing the sustainability of the coastal ecosystem and habitats.

    The objective of MISHTI is to restore/afforestation of mangroves covering approximately 540 km2, spreading across 9 coastal States and 4 Union Territories.  Implementation of MISHTI initiative is through convergence with gap funding provided through National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).

    Financial support of ₹17.96 Crore has been released from CAMPA to the States of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Odisha, West Bengal, and UT of Puducherry for restoration of degraded mangrove area in the financial year 2024-2025.

    India’s total mangrove cover stands at 4,991.68 km2, making up 0.15% of the country’s total geographical area as per India State of Forest Report 2023 ((ISFR-2023). West Bengal has the highest mangrove coverage, accounting for 42.45%, followed by Gujarat at 23.66% and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands at 12.39%. The mangrove cover in Gujarat has increased by 253.06 km² between 2001 and 2023, as per ISFR-2023. The effective implementation of regulatory and promotional measures has yielded an increase of mangrove cover in Gujarat, which includes large-scale plantation initiatives through successful Public-Private Partnership along with active community engagement and effective protection measures.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE, SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH, in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

    VM

    (Rajya Sabha US Q379)

    (Release ID: 2100252) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cross-Agency Steering Group sets 2025 priorities to support growth of sustainable finance in Hong Kong

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

         The Green and Sustainable Finance Cross-Agency Steering Group (Steering Group) sets out three key priorities for this year to foster the growth of sustainable finance in Hong Kong following its meeting today (February 6).

         1. Developing a comprehensive sustainability disclosure ecosystem. With the publication of the Roadmap on Sustainability Disclosure in Hong Kong (Note 1) by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, the Steering Group will take further actions to support the implementation of the International Financial Reporting Standards Sustainability Disclosure Standards (ISSB Standards) in Hong Kong. The Steering Group will work closely with stakeholders to provide technical assistance on sustainability reporting, develop a sustainability assurance framework, and deliver capacity building programmes in collaboration with the industry.

         2. Reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a leading sustainable and transition finance hub. To scale up the flow of green and sustainable finance, the Steering Group is engaging the industry to expand the Hong Kong Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance (Note 2) to incorporate transition elements and add new sustainable activities. The Steering Group also works alongside the industry to develop operational guidance for practising transition finance in a sectoral approach. Furthermore, the Steering Group will set up a Transition Finance Knowledge Hub on its website. Following the progress of carbon market developments at COP29 (Note 3), the Steering Group reaffirmed its commitment to develop Hong Kong into an Asia-Pacific region carbon trading hub, through increasing engagement with stakeholders and providing capacity building programmes across the region.

         3. Harnessing data and technology to facilitate sustainability reporting and promote sustainable financing activities. The Steering Group is developing the official Hong Kong Green Fintech Map (Note 4) with the industry, which will be published in the first half of 2025, in view of the potential of green fintech solutions in facilitating large-scale mobilisation of sustainable capital and enabling information flow with greater transparency and accessibility. To support sustainability reporting and increase data availability, the Steering Group will continue to enhance the free-for-all public utility data tools on its website throughout the year, including two greenhouse gas emissions calculation and estimation tools and the Climate and Environmental Risk Questionnaire for Non-listed companies/small and medium-sized enterprises. 
         â€‹
         For details on the initiatives of the Steering Group and its members, please visit sustainablefinance.org.hk/en/.
     
    About the Steering Group

         Established in May 2020, the Steering Group is co-chaired by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Securities and Futures Commission. Members include the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the Environment and Ecology Bureau, the Insurance Authority, the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority, the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council, and Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited. The Steering Group aims to coordinate the management of climate and environmental risks to the financial sector, accelerate the growth of green and sustainable finance in Hong Kong and support the Government’s climate strategies.
     
    Note 1: In December 2024, the HKSAR Government launched the Roadmap on Sustainability Disclosure in Hong Kong, providing a well-defined pathway for large publicly accountable entities in Hong Kong to fully adopt the ISSB Standards no later than 2028.

    Note 2: In May 2024, the HKMA published Phase 1 of the Hong Kong Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance, encompassing 12 economic activities under four sectors, namely power generation, transportation, construction, and water and waste management.

    Note 3: The 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, commonly known as COP29.

    Note 4: In March 2024, the Steering Group launched the Prototype Hong Kong Green Fintech Map with Cyberport and Invest Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MEASURES TO COMBAT TELECOM-RELATED FRAUDS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:12PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has undertaken following measures to protect citizens and prevent misuse of telecom resources for cybercrime & financial frauds:

    1. Developed a system to detect suspected mobile connections obtained on fake / forged documents and directed Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) for reverification.

     

    1. Launched a citizen centric initiative Sanchar Saathi to empower mobile subscribers, strengthen their security and increase awareness. It is available in the form of web portal (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in) and Mobile App. Sanchar Saathi, inter-alia, facilitates citizens to:

    1. report suspected fraud and unsolicited commercial communications

    2. know the mobile connections issued in their name and report the mobile connections which are either not required or not taken by them

    3. report the stolen / lost mobile handset for blocking and tracing

    4. know the genuineness of mobile handset

     

    1. Launched Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) for sharing of information related to misuse of telecom resources with stakeholders for prevention of cyber-crime and financial frauds. At present, 540 organization including banks and financial institutions, Reserve Bank of India (RBI), State/UT Police, Security agencies, Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), TSPs etc. have on-boarded the platform.

     

    1. DoT and TSPs have devised a system to identify and block incoming international spoofed calls displaying Indian mobile numbers that appear to be originating from within India. Such international spoofed calls have been made by cyber-criminals in recent cases of fake digital arrests, FedEx scams, drugs/narcotics in courier, impersonation as government and police officials, disconnections of mobile numbers by DoT/TRAI officials, etc.

     

    Further, Ministry of Home Affairs has also launched the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in) to enable the public to report all types of cyber crimes.

    DoT has notified Telecom Cyber Security Rules and Critical Telecommunication Infrastructure Rules on 21.11.2024 and 22.11.2024 respectively under section 22 of the telecommunications Act, 2023 for security of the telecommunication infrastructure. DoT has set up a Telecom Security Operation Centre (TSOC), for detecting potential cyber- threats to Indian telecom network and providing alerts to stakeholders for necessary actions. DoT is engaging with citizens and making them aware of telecom related frauds & scams through social media and regular press releases.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Communications, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

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

    (Release ID: 2100237) Visitor Counter : 98

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIA POST PAYMENTS BANK UNDERTAKES VARIOUS MEASURES TO FACILITATE POST OFFICE SAVINGS ACCOUNT (POSA) LINKAGE WITH ITS ACCOUNTS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:11PM by PIB Delhi

    India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) has 650 branches and over 1.63 lakh access points across the country with 01 branch and 224 access points particularly in Kushinagar district.

    IPPB is offering a range of services and products such as savings and current accounts, Virtual Debit Card, Domestic Money Transfer services, bill and utility payments, insurance services for IPPB customers, Post Office Savings Account (POSA) linkage with IPPB accounts, online payment for Post Office Savings schemes, Digital Life Certificate (DLC), Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS), mobile number update in Aadhaar for any citizen and Child Enrolment services for any child of 0-5 years old.

    IPPB has undertaken various measures to facilitate the Post Office Savings Account (POSA) linkage with IPPB accounts including display of branding material at all major post offices and holding of more than 25000 financial literacy and customer awareness camps in and outside post offices to encourage customers for linking POSA – IPPB account.

    IPPB provides doorstep access to Aadhaar related services including Digital Life Certificates and Child Enrolment through the Postmen and GraminDakSevaks. It has tied up with various Departments at Central/State level to provide these services to general public, pensioners and children, as the case may be. As on 31.12.2024, the Bank has opened 7.03 crore Aadhaar seeded accounts, updated mobile numbers in Aadhaar of 7.68 crore customers, provided Child Enrolment services to 81.17 lakh customers and has issued more than 24 Lakh Digital Life Certificate to pensioners.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Communications, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

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

    (Release ID: 2100235) Visitor Counter : 89

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: GROWING IMPORTANCE OF SATELLITE COMMUNICATION

    Source: Government of India (2)

    GROWING IMPORTANCE OF SATELLITE COMMUNICATION

    TELECOM TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT FUND SCHEME TO ENABLE AFFORDABLE BROADBAND AND MOBILE SERVICES IN RURAL AND REMOTE AREAS

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:09PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government announced Satellite Communication Reforms in October, 2022 and Indian Space Policy in April, 2023. The Satellite Communication Reforms-2022 have facilitated the ease-of-doing business, streamlined a number of processes and reduced financial charges on the licensees. As a result of the recent Space Sector reforms, many satellite operators have shown interest and applied for authorization for providing the satellite capacity over India. It is envisaged that the above reforms will lead to better quality and affordable services

    The Telecommunications Act, 2023 provides for assignment of spectrum through administrative process for satellite-based services, listed in First Schedule of the Act. Further, in line with The Telecommunication Act 2023, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on 11.07.2024 has sought the Recommendations of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on terms and conditions of spectrum assignment including spectrum pricing in respect of licensees intending to provide satellite-based communication services while accounting for level playing field with terrestrial access services.

    The Telecom Technology Development Fund Scheme has been notified by DoT for domestic companies and institutions involved in technology design, development, and commercialization of telecommunication, including satellite communication, products and solutions to enable affordable broadband and mobile services in rural and remote areas.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Communications, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

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

    (Release ID: 2100233) Visitor Counter : 78

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DEPARTMENT OF POSTS TAKES STEPS TO IMPROVE OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY AND EXPAND SERVICE OFFERINGS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:08PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Posts has taken numerous steps to improve operational efficiency, incorporate technology, and expand service offerings. Below are the details:

    1. Improved Parcel Services:
      • Nodal Delivery Centers: 233 Nodal Delivery Centers have been established for faster and more efficient parcel delivery, covering over 1600 PIN codes. These centers handle approximately 30% of daily parcel deliveries.
      • Parcel Hubs: A network of 190 Parcel Hubs (Level-1 and Level-2) has been set up to facilitate faster processing and secure handling of parcels.
      • Technology Integration: Advanced tracking systems have been implemented, including real-time delivery status, API integration, system-assisted sorting, and error management systems.
      • Parcel Packaging Policy: 1408 Parcel Packaging Units are operational across the country, providing high-quality packaging materials for secure parcel transit.
      • Smart Booking and Delivery Kiosks: 30 Smart Parcel Delivery Kiosks and 30 Self Booking Kiosks have been installed in various cities to enable flexible pickup and delivery options for customers.
    2. DakGharNiryatKendras (DNKs): In coordination with Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), 1013 DNKs have been established to facilitate e-commerce exports, offering services such as self-booking, label generation, and export documentation.
      • These DNKs provide valuable support to small exporters, including artisans and self-help groups from rural areas.
    3. Core Banking and Digital Services:
      • All Post Offices are integrated with a Core Banking Solution offering a variety of services including ATMs, Internet Banking, Mobile Banking, NEFT/RTGS, Electronic Clearing Services (ECS), and e-KYC for smooth digital transactions.
      • India Post Payments Bank offers digital payment services linked to Post Office Savings Accounts.
    4. Expanded Services by the Business Development Directorate:
      • Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK): Post Offices are now offering passport services to citizens across the country.
      • AadhaarEnrollment and UpdationCenters: To provide Aadhaar services even in remote areas.
      • Verification of Prime Minister Employment Generation Program (PMEGP) Units: Post Offices assist in the verification process for government subsidy schemes like PMEGP.
      • E-Post & E-Payment: These services provide electronic message transmission and bill payment collection, respectively, further enhancing the Post’s service offerings.
    5. Retail and Specialized Services:
      • Gangajal and Holy Prasadam: Post Offices are involved in the distribution of Gangajal and delivery of Prasadam, providing a unique religious service to customers.
      • Media Post and Direct Post: For business communication, Post Offices facilitate Media Post services (advertisements through postal mediums) and Direct Post for targeted advertising.
      • India Post Passenger Reservation System (IP-PRS): Identified Post Offices have been equipped to offer railway ticket reservations, thus expanding their utility to the public.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Communications, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

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

    (Release ID: 2100231) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CONNECTIVITY IN RURAL AND REMOTE AREAS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    CONNECTIVITY IN RURAL AND REMOTE AREAS

    GOVERNMENT TAKES UP ‘BHARATNET’ PROJECT FOR PROVIDING BROADBAND CONNECTIVITY TO ALL GRAM PANCHAYATS

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 3:07PM by PIB Delhi

    To improve telecom services in commercially unviable rural and remote areas of the country, Government has taken up ‘BharatNet’ project for providing broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats (GPs) in the country and many other mobile projects for provisioning of mobile services with funding from Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) [erstwhile Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF)]. As of date, 2,14,323 GPs are service ready in the country. Further, by commissioning of around 16,869 mobile towers, around 22,000 uncovered remote and rural villages / locations have been covered in the country.

     

    For providing mobile service in uncovered villages of North-Eastern Region and Left Wing Extremism (LWE) areas, Government has undertaken many targeted projects. In North-Eastern states, under the DBN funded schemes, 2,829 mobile towers have been commissioned covering around 3,500 uncovered villages and 286 National Highway locations. Further, in Left Wing Extremism (LWE) areas, 3,449 mobile towers have been commissioned covering 3,505 uncovered locations.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Communications, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

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

    (Release ID: 2100229) Visitor Counter : 70

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Delhi International Leather Expo (DILEX) 2025 to be held on 20-21st February at Yashobhoomi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Delhi International Leather Expo (DILEX) 2025 to be held on 20-21st February at Yashobhoomi

    DILEX to enhance exports and employment aligning with ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives

    Council for Leather Exports targets $47 bn by 2030, with special focus on footwear & leather exports

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 2:23PM by PIB Delhi

    The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) is going to organise the Delhi International Leather Expo (DILEX) 2025, on 20-21st February at Yashobhoomi, ICC Dwarka, New Delhi. DILEX is a premier B2B event designed to provide a robust platform for manufacturers and exporters to showcase their latest collections, innovations, and capabilities to international buyers seeking viable sourcing alternatives. Aligning with the “Make in India” and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, DILEX 2025 is set to enhance exports, create employment, and fortify India’s presence in global markets.

    The government has implemented several reforms to boost trade and industry. The Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on wet blue leather has been reduced from 10% to zero, effective 2nd February 2025, addressing a key industry demand, while export duty on crust leather has been eliminated. Additionally, a Special Package has been introduced to support manufacturing and exports, particularly in the footwear sector, along with a Focus Product Scheme aimed at improving productivity, quality, and competitiveness, generating a turnover of ₹4 lakh crore and exports of ₹1.1 lakh crore, and creating 22 lakh jobs.

    To support MSMEs, investment and turnover classification limits have been increased, and credit guarantee coverage for micro and small enterprises has been doubled to ₹10 crore, unlocking an additional ₹1.5 lakh crore in credit over five years. Custom financial assistance, including customized credit cards for micro-enterprises and support for SC/ST women entrepreneurs, will further promote inclusive growth. An Export Promotion Mission will also be launched with sectoral and ministerial targets, while BharatTradeNet (BTN), a unified platform for trade documentation and financing, will be established to streamline international trade.

    The Council for Leather Exports (CLE) expresses its gratitude to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, and the Ministry of Commerce & Industry for their unwavering support to the leather sector. CLE remains dedicated to promoting industry expansion, fostering job creation, and strengthening India’s footprint in global trade.

    Budget announcement comes at a pivotal moment for India’s leather and footwear sector, which is rapidly evolving into a global manufacturing and sourcing hub under the visionary “Make in India” and “Atamnirbhar Bharat” initiatives. CLE has also worked out a target of USD 47 billion by 2030. Out of which USD 13.7 bn is for export sector, conveyed said Shri Rajendra Kumar Jalan, Chairman, Council for Leather Exports.

    “The government’s proactive stance in addressing industry concerns—particularly the duty reductions and financial support for MSMEs—will be instrumental in elevating India’s leather sector to global prominence. CLE remains committed to driving sustainable growth and global competitiveness.” informed Shri Rajendra K. Jalan.

    “The Union Budget 2025 has delivered a much-needed boost to the leather and footwear sector by enhancing credit access, rationalizing duties, and maintaining key policy frameworks. The industry is poised for significant growth with the newly introduced special package and export-oriented incentives.” said Shri Vimal Anand, Joint Secretary.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan/Asmitabha Manna

    (Release ID: 2100219) Visitor Counter : 6

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Workshop on Green Hydrogen aims at strengthening India-UK cooperation

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Workshop on Green Hydrogen aims at strengthening India-UK cooperation

    Bureau of Indian Standards (India) and British Standards Institution (United Kingdom) discusses hydrogen standardization

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 2:00PM by PIB Delhi

    With an objective to strengthen India-UK cooperation on hydrogen standardization through Green Hydrogen Production & Regulations, Bureau of Indian (BIS), in collaboration with BSI (British Standards Institution) and the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), hosted a two-day India-UK Standards Partnership Workshop on Green Hydrogen in New Delhi.

    The India-UK Standards Partnership Workshop on Green Hydrogen marks a milestone in fostering international cooperation for achieving clean energy transitions. It serves as a testament to the importance of knowledge exchange, standardization, and innovation in building a sustainable hydrogen market, said Ms. Abbey Dorian, Energy Sector Lead at BSI during the workshop.

    She said, “India and the UK have a shared ambition to become leaders in green hydrogen, supporting the goal of a net zero future.”

    The event is a part of a schedule of wider activity, through the UK Government’s Standards Partnership programme which aims to increase the use of international standards in India to accelerate growth, attract investment and enhance trade. The event emphasises on safe, scalable & globally harmonized Regulations, Codes and Standards (RCS). The event was also focused at adoption of fast-track PAS (Publicly Available Specification) standards & global hydrogen certification.

    The programme also strengthens BIS’s efforts under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. It helped identify gaps in standards, explore new areas, and connect with experts. Insights from global best practices will enhance India’s certification, testing, and standardization, supporting a sustainable and competitive green hydrogen economy.

    The event witnessed insightful deliberations by policymakers, technical experts, and industry leaders from India and the United Kingdom. The workshop was inaugurated by Mr. Rajiv Sharma, Deputy Director General (Standardization-I), BIS, Ms. Laura Aylett, Head of Climate and Energy (British High Commission) and Ms. Abbey Dorian, Energy Sector Lead, BSI, underscoring the shared vision of India and UK to foster innovation and sustainability in the green hydrogen sector.

    ****

    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

    (Release ID: 2100208) Visitor Counter : 52

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Provisional statistics of restaurant receipts and purchases for fourth quarter of 2024 and whole year of 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Provisional statistics of restaurant receipts and purchases for fourth quarter of 2024 and whole year of 2024
    Provisional statistics of restaurant receipts and purchases for fourth quarter of 2024 and whole year of 2024
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released the latest provisional figures on restaurant receipts and purchases today (February 6).           The value of total receipts of the restaurants sector in the fourth quarter of 2024, provisionally estimated at $27.6 billion, increased by 0.4% over a year earlier.  Over the same period, the provisional estimate of the value of total purchases by restaurants decreased by 2.5% to $8.9 billion.           After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate of the volume of total restaurant receipts decreased by 1.1% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared with a year earlier.           Analysed by type of restaurant and comparing the fourth quarter of 2024 with the fourth quarter of 2023, total receipts of Chinese restaurants decreased by 3.6% in value and 5.3% in volume.  Total receipts of non-Chinese restaurants increased by 2.2% in value and 1.6% in volume.  Total receipts of fast food shops increased by 6.6% in value and 4.3% in volume.  Total receipts of bars decreased by 8.8% in value and 11.9% in volume.  As for miscellaneous eating and drinking places, total receipts decreased by 1.5% in value and 3.8% in volume.           Based on the seasonally adjusted series, the provisional estimate of total restaurant receipts increased by 3.0% in value and 2.5% in volume in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared with the preceding quarter.           For 2024 as a whole, the value of total receipts of the restaurants sector was provisionally estimated at $109.4 billion, decreased by 0.1% in value and 2.4% in volume compared with the whole year of 2023.  Over the same period, the provisional estimate of the value of total purchases of restaurants decreased by 1.9% to $35.1 billion.           Analysed by type of restaurant and comparing the whole year of 2024 with the whole year of 2023, total receipts of Chinese restaurants decreased by 4.3% in value and 6.7% in volume.  Total receipts of non-Chinese restaurants remained virtually unchanged in value, but decreased by 1.5% in volume.  Total receipts of fast food shops increased by 7.2% in value and 4.2% in volume.  Total receipts of bars decreased by 10.2% in value and 13.1% in volume.  As for miscellaneous eating and drinking places, total receipts increased by 1.4% in value, but decreased by 1.7% in volume.           To facilitate further understanding of the short-term business performance of the restaurants sector, statistics in respect of the restaurant receipts and purchases in individual months of the reference quarter are also compiled.           Analysed by month, it was provisionally estimated that the value of total receipts of the restaurants sector increased by 1.2%, increased by 0.7% and decreased by 0.5% respectively in October, November and December 2024, compared with the corresponding months in 2023.           After discounting the effect of price changes, it was provisionally estimated that the volume of total restaurant receipts decreased by 0.4%, 0.8% and 2.2% respectively in October, November and December 2024, compared with the corresponding months in 2023.      Commentary           A Government spokesman said that business of restaurants improved in the fourth quarter of 2024.  The value of total restaurant receipts resumed a year-on-year increase of 0.4%.  On a seasonally adjusted quarter-to-quarter comparison, it showed an accelerated increase of 3.0%.           Looking ahead, business of restaurants will continue to be supported by the various measures by the Central Government to boost the Mainland economy and benefit Hong Kong, the SAR Government’s proactive efforts to boost market sentiment and promote tourism, and increases in employment earnings, though the change in consumption patterns of residents and visitors should still affect business.      Further information           Table 1 presents the revised figures of restaurant receipts by type of restaurant and total purchases by the restaurants sector for the third quarter of 2024 as well as the provisional figures for the fourth quarter of 2024.           Table 2 and Table 3 present the revised value and volume indices respectively of restaurant receipts by type of restaurant for the third quarter of 2024 and the provisional indices for the fourth quarter of 2024.           Table 4 presents the year-on-year rate of change in total restaurant receipts in value and volume terms based on the original quarterly series, as well as the quarter-to-quarter rate of change based on the seasonally adjusted series.           The revised figures on restaurant receipts and purchases for the fourth quarter of 2024 (with breakdown by month) will be released through the website of C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/scode540.html) and relevant publications of the Department from March 20, 2025.           The classification of restaurants follows the Hong Kong Standard Industrial Classification (HSIC) Version 2.0, which is used in various economic surveys for classifying economic units into different industry classes.           More detailed statistics are given in the “Report on Quarterly Survey of Restaurant Receipts and Purchases”.  Users can browse and download the publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1080002&scode=540).           Users who have enquiries about the survey results may contact the Distribution Services Statistics Section of C&SD (Tel.: 3903 7401; e-mail: qsr@censtatd.gov.hk).

     
    Ends/Thursday, February 6, 2025Issued at HKT 16:30

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from Metropolitan City of Torino of Piemonte Region in Italy suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Import of poultry meat and products from Metropolitan City of Torino of Piemonte Region in Italy suspended
    Import of poultry meat and products from Metropolitan City of Torino of Piemonte Region in Italy suspended
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         The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (February 6) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in the Metropolitan City of Torino of the Piemonte Region in Italy, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the area with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.     A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 150 tonnes of frozen poultry meat and about 40 000 poultry eggs from Italy last year.     “The CFS has contacted the Italian authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreak. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

     
    Ends/Thursday, February 6, 2025Issued at HKT 16:20

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Amalgamated hybrid materials enable brain-mimicking artificial synapses for computing breakthroughs

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 06 FEB 2025 5:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Taking inspiration from nature, a group of scientists have amalgamated hybrid materials to form a robust biomimetic system that closely mimics the behavior of biological synapses. This can pave the path towards a new wave of innovation in computing with breakthroughs in robotics, machine learning, and real-time data processing.

    The human brain, known for its remarkable energy efficiency, is serving as a model for developing advanced technologies. At the forefront of these efforts are solution-processed memristor (a non-volatile electrical component that regulates the flow of current in a circuit) devices, which are designed to replicate the brain’s synaptic functions. These devices are not only efficient but also scalable and cost-effective, making them ideal for creating neuromorphic systems-computers that function like the human brain. By mimicking how neurons communicate and process information, memristors have immense potential to revolutionize artificial intelligence, enabling smarter, faster, and more energy-efficient AI systems.

    In a recent finding, a group of scientists from S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBNCBS), in collaboration with the National Institute of Technical Teachers’ Training and Research (NITTTR), developed a hybrid material incorporating nanoscale conductive clusters to facilitate the formation of metallic pathways within a memristive layer. The foundation of the technology is the development of mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4, abbreviated as CN) nanosheets embedded with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) to enable incremental resistance modulation via electric field-induced electrochemical metallization. The amalgamation of these hybrid materials by SNBNCBS, an autonomous institute of Department of Science and Technology, forms a robust biomimetic system known as AgCN that closely mimics the behavior of biological synapses. The research was published in the journal Advanced Functional Materials,

    The AgCN system exhibits gradual and continuous changes in resistance, a property that is critical for energy-efficient and adaptive computing systems. The utilization of biomimicry principles in neuromorphic computing devices has yielded unparalleled capabilities. Contrary to conventional computing systems that employ rigid algorithms, neuromorphic systems emulate the brain’s capacity for learning and adaptation. AgCN-based memristors exhibit remarkable versatility and adaptability in this domain.

    These devices effectively replicated Morse Code by modulating their current to produce precise dot-and-line signals, underscoring their potential for real-time code detection applications. The core innovation of this technology lies in the electric field-induced strengthening or weakening of metallic pathways through the conductive clusters, which play a crucial role in modulating synaptic plasticity.  

    The devices can learn, adapt, and detect patterns with remarkable accuracy by varying voltage pulse numbers, amplitudes, and widths. A particularly noteworthy demonstration involved the devices’ capacity to emulate Pavlov’s dog experiment, thereby highlighting their aptitude for associative learning, a process analogous to biological learning. The impact of these devices extends beyond mere imitation of synaptic behavior, as they empower machines to learn and adapt with greater efficiency by processing and transmitting information in a manner analogous to biological synapses.

    This capacity is of paramount importance for next-generation AI systems, which necessitate high-speed, low-power solutions for image recognition and real-time decision-making tasks. The development of conductive-island-assisted synaptic devices represents a significant leap forward in the field of artificial intelligence, as biomimicry drives innovation.

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