NewzIntel.com

Category: Australia

  • MIL-Evening Report: A $33 billion vote-grabber or real relief? Examining the Albanese government’s big housing pledge

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ehsan Noroozinejad, Senior Researcher, Urban Transformations Research Centre, Western Sydney University

    Man As Thep/Shutterstock

    The Australian housing market is in crisis: soaring prices, increasing rental stress, declining home ownership rates and a growing number of people experiencing homelessness.

    In response, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a $33 billion housing investment plan as part of his government’s latest budget.



    Read more:
    At a glance: the 2025 federal budget

    This is a central plank of Labor’s re-election pitch, aimed at showing housing commitment by:

    Making it easier to buy, better to rent, and building more homes faster.

    What are the key features of the plan?

    The plan includes two headline measures aimed at boosting housing supply and helping buyers:

    1-Expanding ‘Help to Buy’ for first-home buyers:

    The Help to Buy program provides shared-equity loans to first-time homebuyers so they can purchase properties with smaller deposits. Under this program, the government buys a portion of the property to lower the required mortgage amount for buyers.

    Under the initial terms of the scheme, the Commonwealth offered up to 30% of the price for existing homes and 40% for new constructions, while restricting eligibility to households within specific income and property value ranges.

    Now, the Albanese government has raised cap levels to enable more people to become eligible. The income ceiling for single buyers will increase from $90,000 to $100,000, while the maximum income limit for couples and single parents will rise from $120,000 to $160,000.

    These higher caps mean more than five million Australian properties would fall under the scheme’s scope, significantly expanding buyers’ choice.

    2-Investing in prefabricated and modular homes:

    In November 2024, the Albanese government announced a $900 million productivity fund to reward states and territories that boost housing supply by removing barriers to prefab and modular construction.

    And now, the Albanese government is budgeting another $54 million for the advanced manufacturing of prefab and modular housing industry. This includes $5 million to create a national certification system to streamline approvals and eliminate red tape.

    This aims to speed up home construction through off-site manufacturing technologies, which produce components in factories before assembling them on-site.

    Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic claims these homes can be finished in half the time of conventional construction. Even a 20–30% time saving would be significant.

    These buildings are also more energy efficient, more resilient and cheaper.

    A crane lifts part of a modular home into place.
    benik.at/Shutterstock

    Can these measures fix the problem?

    The big picture problem is, Australia has simply not been building enough homes for its growing population.

    According to the Urban Development Institute of Australia’s State of the Land Report 2025, the federal government will fail (by 400,000 dwellings) to meet its target of constructing 1.2 million new homes by 2029.

    Prefab building methods make up just 8% of new housing developments in Australia.

    Some countries use it much more: Sweden boasts more than 100 years of prefab construction experience, where more than 80% of homes are produced in factories and then assembled at their destinations.

    Modular housing can be described as a promising step forward. But while they offer potential improvements in speed and cost efficiency, it cannot solve the massive housing deficit on its own without structural policy reforms in the near future.

    What about the Help to Buy scheme?

    Shared-equity loans tackle a different side of the problem: affordability for buyers.

    Experts describe Help to Buy as a “modest” but useful “piece of the puzzle” in solving the housing crisis.

    While its impact on general house prices and universal housing affordability is minimal, policymakers worry that programs like these unintentionally push up prices by boosting demand.

    Federal v state roles

    Housing policy in Australia is a shared responsibility.

    State governments control planning, zoning and most of the levers that determine how quickly homes can be approved and built (such as releasing land for development or approving apartment projects).

    The federal government mainly controls funding and high-level programs, so the success of the Albanese government’s plan will depend a lot on cooperation with the states and territories.

    However, there’s some inherent tension here: Canberra can set targets and provide incentives (funding), but it can’t directly build houses or force local councils to approve projects faster.

    That’s one reason behind the prefab certification idea: it removes one potential regulatory hurdle at a national level.

    Political timing

    The timing of this housing plan announcement is no coincidence.

    Australia will have a federal election by May 2025. Most voters will likely consider housing costs and cost-of-living to be primary issues.

    The expansion of Help to Buy enables Labor to target first-home buyers, which may be important in the election.

    The new housing plan is ambitious in scope and certainly a welcome effort to turn the tide on housing affordability.

    However, renters and prospective buyers are unlikely to experience quick benefits from these housing initiatives, as it will require sustained action and cooperation well beyond the upcoming election cycle.

    The Help to Buy program will begin later in 2025, and the positive effects of investing in prefabricated/modular housing will require a period of time before they become apparent.

    It is unclear whether these measures will effectively persuade voters and produce substantial improvements.

    Dr. Ehsan Noroozinejad has received funding from both national and international organisations to support research addressing housing and climate crises. His most recent funding on integrated housing and climate policy comes from the James Martin Institute for Public Policy.

    – ref. A $33 billion vote-grabber or real relief? Examining the Albanese government’s big housing pledge – https://theconversation.com/a-33-billion-vote-grabber-or-real-relief-examining-the-albanese-governments-big-housing-pledge-252915

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Marshall Islands

    Source:

    We’ve reviewed our advice for the Marshall Islands and continue to advise exercise normal safety precautions. Travelling by boat, especially on open waters between atolls, can be hazardous. Vessels and their operators often do not meet Australian safety standards. Take appropriate precautions before travelling by boat (see ‘Travel’).

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Urges Stockholders of AMPS, ML, AMPY, HEES to Act Now

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, March 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating:

    • Altus Power, Inc. (NYSE: AMPS), relating to the proposed merger with TPG. Under the terms of the agreement, Altus Power will be acquired by TPG for $5.00 per share of its Class A common stock in an all-cash transaction.

    ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for April 9, 2025.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/altus-power-inc-amps/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    • MoneyLion Inc. (NYSE: ML), relating to the proposed merger with Gen Digital Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, shareholders of MoneyLion will receive $82.00 per share in cash, and one contingent value right per share entitling the shareholder to a contingent payment of Gen Digital common stock.

    ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for April 10, 2025.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/moneylion-inc-ml/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    • Amplify Energy Corp. (NYSE: AMPY), relating to the proposed merger with Juniper Capital. Under the terms of the agreement, Amplify shareholders will retain approximately 61% of Amplify’s outstanding equity.

    ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for April 14, 2025.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/amplify-energy-corp-ampy/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    • H&E Equipment Services, Inc. (NASDAQ: HEES), relating to the proposed merger with Herc Holdings Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, H&E shareholders will receive $78.75 in cash and 0.1287 shares of Herc common stock for each share they own. H&E’s shareholders will own approximately 14.1% of the combined company.

    ACT NOW. The Tender Offer expires on April 15, 2025.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/he-equipment-services-inc-hees/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in any of the above listed companies and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com).  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Stealing with Force – Jaycar Moonah

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Stealing with Force – Jaycar Moonah

    Tuesday, 25 March 2025 – 9:27 pm.

    Approximately 5:20pm today police attended a reported Robbery at the Jaycar store in Moonah. A 19 year old man and a 19 year old woman are in custody assisting police with their enquiries.
    Police allege that the pair entered the store and stole property, and that physical force was used when staff approached them. A witness then assisted and the 19 year old man is alleged to have threatened that he had a knife, although is not believed he had possession of one at the time. There were no injuries sustained by any person.
    Police located the man and woman leaving the area and were safely taken into custody without incident. The stolen property was also located nearby.
    Sergeant Eaves said “Tasmania Police are thankful there was a safe and quick resolution to this incident. Shop stealing remains a focus area for police and we will continue to target those offending.”
    Police have spoken to witnesses in the immediate area as well as obtaining CCTV footage. Investigations are continuing. Police are aware that further members of the public may have witnessed the incident and anybody able to provide further information is asked to contact police on 131 444.
    Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Digital is the best way to lodge partnership SODs

    Source:

    Statements of distribution (SODs) must be lodged for all partnerships. Accurate and timely completion of these enables us to data match and assess if partners have returned their partnership income correctly. Incomplete or incorrect statements may result in partners being unnecessarily subjected to compliance activities.

    Our recent analysis and compliance activities have identified basic errors tax practitioners make with SODs. To avoid these mistakes, make sure you’ve gathered the necessary lodgment information before preparing SODs, and complete all required information for each partner in the SOD labels, including:

    • the name of each individual or entity
    • tax file numbers
    • residential or business addresses
    • date of birth for individuals
    • Australian business numbers for other entities.

    SOD data helps us cross-check and assure that partners are correctly reporting their income in their income tax returns. This is even more important with our increased focus on compliance with Practical Compliance Guideline PCG 2021/4 Allocation of Professional firm profits – ATO compliance approach. It also helps us target our compliance actions more accurately. 

    We strongly recommend digital lodgment of SODs. For partnerships of up to 160 partners, you can already lodge digitally through your lodgment software (Practitioner lodgment service and Standard Business Reporting-enabled software). From 1 July, you’ll be able to digitally lodge 2024–25 and future returns for all partnerships, including those with more than 160 partners. We’ll provide more information on this change closer to that date.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Support for those affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred

    Source:

    We understand taxpayers across New South Wales and Queensland communities have been impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. We encourage you to continue to lodge your clients’ obligations if you can, however for those clients that have been directly affected in Local Government Areas (LGAs) declared eligible for the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRPExternal Link), we will provide additional time where you or your client are unable to lodge for the following obligations:

    • Monthly BAS with an original due date of 21 March 2025 will have up to 11 April 2025 to lodge.
    • Individual, Trust and Small Business income tax returns with an original due date of 31 March 2025 will have up to 11 April 2025 to lodge.

    These measures are in addition to our normal range of support options available should you, your clients or your practice need additional help.

    How do I know if a client can lodge late without penalty?

    If we have made a provision for your client to lodge late without penalty, there will be an indicator on their account. This can be identified by running an On-Demand Outstanding Lodgment Report for either Income Tax or Activity Statements in Online services for agents, or through your practice management software.

    Details for running On-Demand reports in Online services for agents and practitioner lodgment service (PLS) – enabled software are available on our website.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 5 ways to enjoy Auckland after daylight saving ends

    Source: Auckland Council

    Daylight saving ends on 6 April and it’s natural to feel a shift this time of year. But shorter days don’t mean shorter experiences. There’s plenty to do to make the most of Auckland, even when there are fewer hours of sunshine. Take the opportunity to embrace this season of change with new ideas to boost your mood, from maximising vitamin D to rediscovering the warmth of a brisk walk.

    For those who work or study indoors, the end of daylight saving time can often mean that, in the height of winter, your days start and end in darkness. Reduced daylight hours can limit your ability to produce vitamin D, which is not only linked to bone health and muscle function, but has been shown to affect the synthesis of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that’s key for mood regulation and happiness.

    One way to squeeze more vitamin D into your day is by spending your lunch break outdoors. It’s hip to be square when it comes to lunchtime eating options for workers in the central city. Auckland’s well-known public squares include Aotea Square, Te Komititanga at the bottom of Queen Street, and Britomart’s Takutai Square where you can enjoy your lunch while relaxing on beanbags. If you feel the need to be close to the water, Queens Wharf is also an ideal spot to enjoy your lunchtime with some seaside views. 

    The beanbags get put out at Takutai Square in Britomart on sunny days – a great spot to have a relaxing lunch.

    If you prefer the park life, then Myers Park is an urban oasis, packed with park benches poised for sandwich or sushi eating. Alternatively, you can eat your lunch while admiring the fountain and heritage trees at Albert Park. In Freyburg Place, the table and chairs outside the Ellen Melville Centre offer a great spot to chat with a coworker, while the tiered seating opposite is a sunny spot not far from many great High Street eateries (in case you left your lunch at home).

    While long summer evenings can get busy, autumn and winter are a chance to reclaim some ‘me time’ by taking a night class. If you’re keen to develop your artistic side, try the Contemporary Painting Class at Te Tuhi in Pakuranga, or get your hands dirty at the Fundamentals of Clay class at Corban Estate Arts Centre or Evening Clay Making at Mairangi Arts Centre.

    If you’d like to combine your art with exercise, try the yoga and art immersion class at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Or maybe you’d prefer to spend your evenings learning a language – why not drop in to Kōrero Mai! at Mt Roskill Library and improve your conversational te reo Māori?

    The quieter months in autumn and winter are great times to visit spots that are very popular over summer such as Karekare in Waitākere Ranges Regional Park. Karekare Falls is only a five-minute walk from the carpark, and is great if combined with a beach walk along the rugged coastline where The Piano was filmed.

    A family-friendly winter walk opinion is Te Ara Tahuna / Ōrewa Estuary Path on the Hibiscus Coast. This 80-minute scenic loop path is scooter, bike, pram and skateboard friendly (the track even goes past a skateboard park). If you’re bored over the weekend why not tread the boards – boardwalks that is. There are many to try, including the recently upgraded Shepherds Park in Beach Haven, Bucklands Beach Path where you can enjoy Rangitoto views, Mangawhau / Mt Eden overlooking the city – there’s even a boardwalk at Auckland Zoo if you’d prefer to go ape!

    The boardwalk at Shepherds Park is ideal for a weekend walk.

    When you put your clocks back on 6 April, take the opportunity to have a fitness reset. Even when the weather is wet, there are heaps of ways to stay active at Auckland Council Pool and Leisure centres. Reach your daily step count on the treadmill or improve bone density with weight-bearing exercises in one of the Council’s gym facilities. For extra motivation, try a group fitness class – such as cardio and core – or if you want to dance with somebody, try a dance-based class like Zumba and Barre. For a wheelie good time, try a stationary bike class. If team sports are more your jam, then prove your net worth with sports such as basketball, pickleball or badminton.

    The fitness centre at Albany Stadium Pool features cardio equipment such as treadmills and rowing machines, as well as free weights and other exercise machines.

    After all that exercise, you deserve a rest. The cooler months are the perfect time to make a dent in your reading list. Keen to get your hands on that book everyone is talking about?

    Visit your local Auckland Council library and explore the Bestie collection, which features new and bestselling books available with no holds or renewals, meaning you can pick up a copy and read it right away.

    Set up a cosy reading cocoon at home with a thrifted mug and warm blanket from your local Community Recycling Centre (CRC), or bring a mat and a warm coat to a park and read outdoors – perhaps enjoying the autumn leaves as you leaf through a book? Great parks to enjoy autumn colour include the Pukekawa / Auckland Domain, Albert Park and Victoria Park.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Budget support for cost of living, health and vulnerable communities welcomed – AMES

    Source: AMES

    Migrant and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia has welcomed measures announced by the federal government in its 2025 budget which provide cost of living relief, support for diverse communities while promoting social cohesion and maintaining Australia’s commitment to resettling refugees.

    CEO of migrant and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia also welcomed budget measures that supported access to healthcare, especially for women, as well as cost of living relief for vulnerable families and communities.

    “We welcome the measures in the budget that support migrants and refugees and their communities, who are among the most vulnerable to cost of living pressures and barriers to accessing healthcare,” Ms Scarth said.

    “The government’s investment in extending bulk billing and keeping medicines affordable will be welcomed by the communities we work with and support.

    “The modest tax cuts delivering $268 a year to families and the extension of power bill relief, saving households $150 a year, will also have a positive impact,” she said.

    Ms Scarth said the health measures in the budget would be felt in diverse communities.

    “We know that people from diverse communities can struggle to access healthcare, so the $8.5 billion boost to Medicare aimed at extending bulk-billing target of nine out of ten GP visits by 2030 is welcome,” Ms Scarth said.

    “Also welcome is the $650 million in the budget for urgent care clinics and the $573 million for women’s health. The measure to limit the costs of prescriptions on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme to no more than $25 will help many families.

    “The women’s health measures are particularly important because they focus on areas such as contraception, endometriosis and menopause care,” she said.

    AMES Australia also welcomed the $178.4 million investment in the budget over five years to strengthen social cohesion, including $10 million for independent multicultural media and $44.8 million in grants for community projects.

    The budget also commits $21.4 million to strengthen support for victim-survivors of sexual violence, which builds on existing programs aimed at improving access to critical legal and non-legal support for victim-survivors.

     

    And it allocates funds to maintain Australia’s world-leading refugee programs.

     

    “The budget maintains Australia’s commitment to settle 20,000 refugees each year at a time when many countries are closing their borders to those fleeing war or persecution, and while an increasing number of global conflicts are driving record human displacement,” Ms Scarth said.

     

    “Overall, the budget is inclusive. It recognises that when people feel they are valued members of society, there is a dividend in stronger social cohesion and a stronger society,” she said.  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Reverend Warnock Leads Bipartisan Effort to Lower Housing Costs for Servicemembers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senators Reverend Warnock Leads Bipartisan Effort to Lower Housing Costs for Servicemembers

    Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Warnock (D-GA) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) are introducing a bipartisan bill that will help servicemembers across Georgia, Alaska, and the country obtain sufficient and affordable housing
    A stalwart champion for Georgia’s veterans, military families, and servicemembers, Senator Reverend Warnock has actively worked in the Senate to strengthen federal support for Georgia’s military communities
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “Our bill will help ensure military families who sacrifice so much to serve our nation can access safe, dignified housing”
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced bipartisan legislation to lower housing costs for servicemembers in Georgia, Alaska, and across the country. The bipartisan Basic Allowance for Housing Restoration Act will ensure servicemembers and their families receive their full housing allowance. In Fiscal Year 2015, Congress cut servicemembers’ housing allowance, decreasing Base Allowance for Housing (BAH) coverage from 100% of estimated housing costs to 95%. This cost-sharing has hurt military families, many of whom already face issues of food insecurity and other expenses. Companion legislation was also introduced in the House by Reps. Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10) and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) earlier in the month.
    “Georgia is a military state, and with all that we ask from our servicemembers and their families, ensuring they have quality, affordable housing is the least we can do,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “I have long been a champion for our servicemembers in Georgia and across the nation, which is why I am proud to partner with Senator Murkowski to champion the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) Restoration Act. Our bill will help ensure military families who sacrifice so much to serve our nation can access safe, dignified housing, and I look forward to introducing companion legislation in the Senate.” 
    “Alaska is home to many critical military installations with serious missions, but our servicemembers and their families face some of the highest costs-of-living in the country – especially when it comes to housing.” said Senator Murkowski. “No member of our military should have to pay exorbitant out-of-pocket costs to have a roof over their head while serving our nation. It’s time for Congress to address this and take care of our servicemembers by raising the Basic Allowance for Housing back to 100 percent.”
    “Access to affordable housing is one of the top issues I hear from servicemembers at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Servicemembers are priced out of options to live near their bases, putting strain on our military families,” said Rep. Strickland. “When the Department reduces the housing allowance, it exacerbates economic, food access, and readiness issues. Restoring the BAH to 100% provides servicemembers and their families with stability and shows that meeting their basic needs is a national security priority.”
    “Our service members and their families should not have to struggle to find and afford housing. When they volunteer to put their lives on the line for their country, we should be able to guarantee that they will have access to clean and comfortable housing within the allowance they are given,” said Rep. Bacon. “Restoring BAH to 100% will help improve the quality of life for those that are willing to sacrifice so much.”
    The legislation is endorsed by the Military Officers Association of America, the Military Housing Association, The American Legion, the Military Family Advisory Network, and the National Military Family Association.
    Senator Warnock has long been a leading advocate in the Senate for Georgia’s military families. In 2022, Senator Warnock helped to pass the bipartisan PACT Act, the largest expansion of veterans’ health benefits in decades. He was also successful in securing multiple important wins for military families in the Fiscal Year 2023 NDAA, including securing two of his provisions in the NDAA that will make housing more affordable for military families and ease the burden of relocation for military families. In the Fiscal Year 2025 NDAA, the Senator helped secure a 14.5% raise for junior troops, who will now earn about $3,000 to $6,000 more per year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Migrant deaths in Asia hit record high in 2024, UN data reveals

    Source: United Nations 2-b

    By Vibhu Mishra

    Migrants and Refugees

    The year 2024 marked the deadliest on record for migrants in Asia, with at least 2,514 lives lost along the region’s perilous migration routes, according to new data from the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM).

    This represents a staggering 59 per cent increase from the 1,584 deaths recorded in 2023, highlighting the worsening dangers faced by people on the move.

    “No one should lose their life in pursuit of safety or a better future,” said Iori Kato, IOM Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific.

    “Every life lost on migration routes in Asia, or anywhere else, is a stark reminder of the urgent need for safe and regular migration pathways – these are preventable tragedies.”

    Source: IOM

    Migrant deaths in Asia since 2014; data for 2025 as of 15 March.

    Rohingya, Afghans most at risk

    The spike in migrant deaths was primarily linked to two of the region’s most vulnerable populations: the minority Muslim Rohingya fleeing Myanmar and Afghans escaping conflict and instability.

    “The increase in deaths across Asia of people fleeing conflict and persecution in the region is of grave concern,” Mr. Kato said.

    In 2024, at least 1,517 Afghan migrants lost their lives while in transit – up 39 per cent from 2023.

    Deaths among Rohingya migrants more than doubled, reaching 889 compared to 436 the previous year.

    On 5 August 2024 alone, over 150 people were reportedly killed by artillery fire while attempting to cross the Naf River from Myanmar to Bangladesh.

    IOM also highlighted that the risks facing migrants extended beyond conflict-related violence. Many are vulnerable to perilous conditions en route, including overcrowded and unsafe boats, abuse by smugglers and extreme weather conditions.

    Crisis of missing migrants

    Lack of identification of migrants was also a major concern, with over 1,000 of those who died in 2024 unidentified. Among the documented deaths, 1,086 were men, 205 were women, and 217 children.

    “A lack of official reporting of data on missing migrants means we know our data do not fully capture the true number of lives lost during migration in Asia,” Mr. Kato said.

    “And even within the records we have, so few identifying details are known, meaning there are immeasurable effects on families searching for lost relatives,” he added.

    UNICEF/Patrick Brown

    A man helps a woman to the shore as a boat arrives with Rohingya refugees in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. (file)

    Asia’s deadly migration routes

    Migration in Asia is complex, driven by economic inequality, conflict and environmental factors, worsened by climate change. However, limited legal pathways have forced many to rely on irregular and highly dangerous routes.

    One of the deadliest corridors remains the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea, where stateless Rohingya and Bangladeshi migrants embark on treacherous sea journeys in search of refuge. Many pay smugglers for passage, only to find themselves trapped on overcrowded boats with insufficient food and water, facing violence from crew members and the risk of being turned away at their destination.

    Meanwhile, overland migration routes across South and Southeast Asia – such as those from Nepal to India, or from Afghanistan and Pakistan through Iran and Turkey – also pose serious risks. Migrants frequently endure extreme environmental conditions, exploitation by traffickers, and border violence.

    Sea crossings to Australia, once a significant migration route, have sharply declined in recent years due to strict border controls, according to IOM.

    While official data on boat interceptions remains scarce, the closure of this route has left many stranded in transit countries with little access to healthcare, education or legal protection, increasing their vulnerability to exploitation.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Renewable Energy – Hydrogen electric flight prepares for lift off in New Zealand – Are Ake

    Source: Ara Ake

    Stralis Aircraft, Fabrum and Ara Ake are collaborating to advance hydrogen-powered aviation by designing, developing and testing liquid-hydrogen storage tanks and a fuel system for Stralis aircraft. The partnership aims to enable Australasia’s first liquid-hydrogen-powered flight – and support the transition toward zero-emission aviation.
    Australian company Stralis Aircraft, which develops high-performance, low-operating-cost hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, will integrate Fabrum’s tanks and fuel system into its aircraft. New Zealand company Fabrum, which specialises in zero-emission transition technology, will provide lightweight composite tanks and dispensing systems, essential enablers for hydrogen-powered aircraft. The project is supported by Ara Ake, New Zealand’s future energy centre, and aligns with Fabrum’s recently announced hydrogen testing facility at Christchurch International Airport.
    “Our hydrogen liquefier provides readily available liquid hydrogen onsite, allowing the capability to access the critical fuel source to prove and test the tanks and fuel system we are developing for Stralis and their fixed-wing fuel-cell electric aircraft,” said Christopher Boyle, Managing Director of Fabrum. “With Ara Ake support, we are excited to be delivering our light-weight composite tanks and fuel system for Stralis to advance the future of hydrogen-powered flight.”
    The collaboration also aims to strengthen industry ties between New Zealand and Australia. The project will build expertise in liquid-hydrogen storage, refuelling, and aircraft integration, contributing to New Zealand’s growing role in hydrogen aviation.
    “This project is a strong example of Ara Ake’s role in connecting leading organisations across countries to advance real-world clean energy solutions,” said Cristiano Marantes, CEO of Ara Ake. “By enabling this initiative, we’re supporting the first hydrogen-electric demonstration with liquid hydrogen and positioning New Zealand as a global testbed for sustainable aviation innovation.”
    Stralis’ fuel-cell technology is designed to be significantly lighter than existing alternatives, potentially enabling aircraft to fly ten times further than battery-electric solutions at a lower cost than fossil-fuel-powered planes. The company is already testing its hydrogen-electric propulsion systems with a team that has deep expertise in electric-aircraft development.
    “This project is a significant step forward for Stralis as we test and refine our hydrogen-electric propulsion technology and build our liquid hydrogen capability,” said Stuart Johnstone, co-founder and CTO of Stralis Aircraft. “We look forward to advancing hydrogen-electric aviation and fostering new partnerships in New Zealand.”
    Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis of water using renewable electricity. With an energy density three times higher than sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and over 100 times greater than batteries, hydrogen can offer a credible alternative for aviation [1] .
    The support from Ara Ake has enabled Stralis and Fabrum to accelerate the development of this technology, with the goal of achieving Australasia’s first liquid-hydrogen-powered flight. This collaboration represents not just a technical milestone, but a pivotal step toward making zero-emission aviation a commercial reality in Australasia and beyond.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace shocked by Govt MP’s attempt to strip New Zealanders’ democratic rights

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace Aotearoa is condemning a Government MP’s proposed Members’ Bill, which aims to prevent New Zealanders from seeking action on climate change through the legal system.
    National Party MP Joseph Mooney’s Climate Change (Restriction on Civil Proceedings) Bill seeks to establish policy that prohibits tort claims related to climate change.
    Greenpeace spokesperson Amanda Larsson say, “This bill would have a chilling effect on New Zealanders’ democratic rights and our ability to secure a liveable future for our kids and grandkids.
    “The judicial system is a cornerstone of democracy because checks and balances are needed to protect the public interest. This Bill attempts a complete overreach of executive political power.”
    The Bill specifically references the legal case Smith v Fonterra, in which iwi leader Mike Smith has sued Fonterra and New Zealand’s other biggest polluters for the harm they have done in contributing to climate change. The case is groundbreaking and has received significant attention in New Zealand and overseas.
    “It is alarming the lengths that Luxon’s Government will go to secure wealthy industry executives’ profits over the rights of regular people,” says Larsson.
    “This is just the latest chapter in Luxon’s War on Nature, which is tearing down environmental, climate and health protections at the behest of corporate lobbyists.
    “Climate change is an existential threat, and we’re in the fight for our lives. New Zealanders want a future for their kids, with clean land, air and water. But Luxon’s vision of New Zealand is an industrial wasteland churning out milk powder and minerals in exchange for poisoned drinking water, dead oceans and more extreme floods, cyclones and droughts.”
    Mooney’s Members’ Bill was submitted hot on the heels of Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters’ state of the nation speech, in which he criticised the Paris Climate Agreement. ACT leader and soon-to-be Deputy Prime Minister, David Seymour, has also recently questioned whether New Zealand should remain a signatory to the deal.
    “It’s time for Christopher Luxon to explain to New Zealanders where his government really stands on climate change. You cannot claim to be committed to climate action while your ministers and MPs run rings around you, threatening to abandon efforts to protect our children’s future and take away people’s democratic rights in the process.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: W&T Offshore Announces Management Promotion

    Source: W & T Offshore Inc

    Headline: W&T Offshore Announces Management Promotion

    HOUSTON, March 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — W&T Offshore, Inc. (NYSE: WTI) (“W&T” or the “Company”) today announced the promotion of Huan Gamblin to Executive Vice President and Chief Technical Officer. Mr. Gamblin has over 20 years of energy industry experience.

    Tracy W. Krohn, Chairman and CEO, commented, “We are very pleased to promote Huan to Executive Vice President and Chief Technical Officer, where he will become an integral part of our executive leadership team. Mr. Gamblin has extensive industry experience and over the past four plus years has taken on more responsibilities at W&T and has been instrumental in our acquisitions strategy. We look forward to Huan’s continued contributions to our success as a leading Gulf of America operator.”

    Huan Gamblin joined the Company in 2020 and was named Executive Vice President and Chief Technical Officer in March 2025. Since joining W&T in 2020, he has served as Manager of Acquisition and Divesture and, in May 2022, as Vice President of Business Development. Mr. Gamblin has 20 years of domestic and international industry experience. Prior to joining W&T, Mr. Gamblin was the Algeria Reservoir Engineering Manager with Occidental Petroleum (“Occidental”). Before Occidental, Mr. Gamblin held various engineering positions at Anadarko Petroleum’s U.S. onshore, Gulf of America, and international assets.

    Mr. Gamblin is a graduate of the University of Texas, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering.

    About W&T Offshore

    W&T Offshore, Inc. is an independent oil and natural gas producer with operations offshore in the Gulf of America and has grown through acquisitions, exploration and development. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had working interests in 52 fields in federal and state waters (which include 45 fields in federal waters and seven in state waters). The Company has under lease approximately 646,200 gross acres (502,300 net acres) spanning across the outer continental shelf off the coasts of Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and Alabama, with approximately 493,000 gross acres on the conventional shelf, approximately 147,700 gross acres in the deepwater and 5,500 gross acres in Alabama state waters. A majority of the Company’s daily production is derived from wells it operates. For more information on W&T, please visit the Company’s website at www.wtoffshore.com.

    CONTACTS:

    Al Petrie
    Investor Relations Coordinator
    investorrelations@wtoffshore.com
    713-297-8024

    Sameer Parasnis
    Executive VP and CFO
    sparasnis@wtoffshore.com
    713-513-8654

    Source: W&T Offshore, Inc.

    Released March 25, 2025

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Element Nominates Paolo Ferrari and Tracey McVicar for Election to the Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Element Fleet Management Corp. (TSX:EFN) (“Element” or the “Company”), the largest publicly traded, pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, today announced that Paolo Ferrari and Tracey McVicar have been nominated to stand for election to the Company’s Board of Directors at its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 2, 2025. They are being nominated to replace Andrew Clarke and Arielle-Meloul Wechsler who have decided not to stand for re-election.

    Mr. Ferrari is a seasoned global executive, most recently holding the roles of Chief Executive Officer of Bridgestone Americas, Chief Executive Officer of Bridgestone West, and Joint Global Chief Operations Officer of Bridgestone Corporation. He is also the former Chief Executive Officer of Pirelli North America and Latin America, and held prior executive roles in telecommunications, technology, and investment banking.

    Ms. McVicar is a Partner at CAI Capital Partners, a private equity firm she joined in 2003. She previously held senior positions in investment banking at Raymond James Ltd. and RBC Capital Markets. Ms. McVicar is also a past director of Teck Resources Ltd. where she served as Chair of the Audit Committee and a past director of BC Hydro Corporation where she chaired the Audit and Finance Committee.

    “We are pleased to nominate Paolo Ferrari and Tracey McVicar to our Board,” said Element Board Chair Kathleen Taylor. “Paolo and Tracey bring integral skills, perspectives, and experience, and we are confident they will be tremendous assets to the Company. We would also like to thank our outgoing Board members, Andrew Clarke and Arielle Meloul-Wechsler, for their valuable support and contributions to Element.”

    Further details about Element’s nominated directors can be found in our management information circular, which is available at http://www.sedarplus.ca.

    Delivering Value Through Our Global Growth Strategy

    Continuing to demonstrate how Element is driving growth and delivering value to our clients, shareholders, and team members, the Company also announced the release of its inaugural annual report. The report provides stakeholders with a clear and comprehensive overview of the Company’s strategy, vision, operations, and financial performance for 2024. It also highlights key trends shaping the fleet and mobility industry, and how the strategic investments Element made in 2024 will drive the Company’s continued industry leadership across fleet and mobility, setting a strong foundation for future success. More details are available in Element’s 2024 Annual Report.

    About Element Fleet Management

    Element Fleet Management (TSX: EFN) is the largest publicly traded pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world. As a Purpose-driven company, we provide a full range of sustainable and intelligent mobility solutions to optimize and enhance fleet performance for our clients across North America, Australia and New Zealand. Our services address every aspect of our clients’ fleet requirements, from vehicle acquisition, maintenance, route optimization, risk management, and remarketing, to advising on decarbonization efforts, integration of electric vehicles and managing the complexity of gradual fleet electrification. Clients benefit from Element’s expertise as one of the largest fleet solutions providers in its markets, offering economies of scale and insight used to reduce operating costs and enhance efficiency and performance. At Element, we maximize our clients’ fleet so they can focus on growing their business.

    This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding Element and its business. Such statements are based on the current expectations and views of future events of Element’s management. In some cases the forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “potential”, “estimate”, “believe” or the negative of these terms, or other similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements, including, among others, statements regarding Element’s expectations for financial performance. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements and information by their nature are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause Element’s actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statement or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements or information. Such risks and uncertainties include those regarding the fleet management and finance industries, economic factors and many other factors beyond the control of Element. A discussion of the material risks and assumptions associated with this outlook can be found in Element’s annual MD&A, and Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, each of which has been filed on SEDAR and can be accessed at www.sedarplus.ca. Except as required by applicable securities laws, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Element undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Saturn Oil & Gas Inc. Announces Participation in Virtual Investor Conference on March 27th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, March 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Saturn Oil & Gas Inc. (TSX: SOIL) (OTCQX: OILSF) (“Saturn” or the “Company”), a light oil-weighted producer focused on unlocking value through the development of assets in Saskatchewan and Alberta, today announces that on March 27th, 2025, the Company will be participating in a live, online oil and gas investor conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com. Saturn invites individual and institutional investors, analysts and advisors to attend, with access details outlined below.

    PRESENTATION DETAILS

    The conference will include a presentation from members of Saturn’s leadership team, followed by a live, interactive Q&A with participants. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available subsequent to the event, with the replay link posted on Saturn’s website. Requests for 1×1 meetings with the Company can be made through the conference portal.

    • Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
    • Time: 10:30 am MT (12:30 pm ET)
    • Event Link: Register Here

    It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. More information about the event is available at this link.

    ABOUT SATURN OIL & GAS INC.

    Saturn is a returns-driven Canadian energy company focused on the efficient and innovative development of high-quality, light oil weighted assets, supported by an acquisition strategy targeting accretive and complementary opportunities. The Company’s portfolio of free-cash flowing, low-decline operated assets in Saskatchewan and Alberta provide a deep inventory of long-term economic drilling opportunities across multiple zones. With an unwavering commitment to building an entrepreneurial and ESG-focused culture, Saturn’s goal is to increase per share reserves, production and cash flow at an attractive return on invested capital. The Company’s shares are listed for trading on the TSX under ticker ‘SOIL’, and on the OTCQX under the ticker ‘OILSF’. Further information and our corporate presentation are available on Saturn’s website at www.saturnoil.com.

    INVESTOR & MEDIA CONTACTS

    John Jeffrey, MBA – Chief Executive Officer
    Tel: +1 (587) 392-7900
    www.saturnoil.com

    Cindy Gray, MBA – VP Investor Relations
    Tel: +1 (587) 392-7900
    info@saturnoil.com

    ABOUT VIRTUAL INVESTOR CONFERENCES®

    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors. Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    VIRTUAL INVESTOR CONFERENCES CONTACT DETAILS

    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: RAA and Duck Creek Technologies announce new SaaS core insurance delivery technology partnership

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, March 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Duck Creek Technologies, the global provider defining the future of property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance, has announced a new SaaS core insurance delivery technology partnership with South Australia’s largest personal lines insurer, RAA.

    Duck Creek’s solutions, including Policy, Rating, Billing, Claims and Clarity (data and insights), served via their OnDemand cloud-delivery platform, will replace RAA’s incumbent on-premises legacy technology for their personal motor and home insurance products.

    Duck Creek’s platform, featuring open and flexible architecture, line-of-business kits, local layers, and simple integrations will help RAA improve speed to market for new products, and provide an increasingly modern and seamless digital user experience for their 825,000+ members.

    James Galdes, Chief Technology Officer at RAA said, “We’re excited to welcome Duck Creek as our core insurance technology partner for our personal and motor insurance products. As South Australia’s largest personal lines insurer, our members’ needs and expectations are continually evolving, and we require a more flexible, nimble and sustainable insurance delivery platform. We’ve found this with Duck Creek Technologies. Their future-proof SaaS core insurance delivery technology will help us unlock efficiencies and uplift our staff and members’ experiences now, and into the future.”

    In addition to allowing RAA to deliver its members more innovative products, and more value, RAA will also receive significant operational benefits and increased efficiencies from the new solutions.

    “Duck Creek’s cloud-native SaaS will help reduce our data center footprint whilst improving scalability and availability. It will simplify regulatory compliance thanks to the platform’s security that’s been built for the Australian context. The fortnightly silent updates through active delivery will eliminate disruptive upgrades and costly downtime. This means we can focus more on delivering coverage, confidence, value and greater member experiences, and focus less on technology,” according to Mr. Galdes.

    Christian Erickson, Managing Director APAC, Duck Creek Technologies said the new partnership represents a significant milestone for Duck Creek Technologies.

    “As a member-based organisation, RAA required more than just protection for policyholders. They pride themselves on delivering value to members. RAA has a big vision and high expectations and will be pushing the boundaries of innovation and possibilities. We’re looking forward to the challenge of supporting and enabling this,” said Erickson.

    RAA’s decision came following a thorough evaluation process. “We leveraged our strategic partners in Gartner and Deloitte to lead a comprehensive market evaluation process. Duck Creek’s evergreen architecture, strong partnership ethos, local product support, and pre-built marketplace connectors were recognised as distinct advantages,” according to Mr. Galdes.

    This announcement follows recent news of a new strategic partnership between RAA and Allianz Australia. Under the 20-year partnership, RAA will be responsible for the marketing and distribution of insurance products, while Allianz will be responsible for product, pricing, claims and underwriting.

    About Duck Creek Technologies 

    Duck Creek Technologies is the global intelligent solutions provider defining the future of the property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance industry. We are the platform upon which modern insurance systems are built, enabling the industry to capitalize on the power of the cloud to run agile, intelligent, and evergreen operations. Authenticity, purpose, and transparency are core to Duck Creek, and we believe insurance should be there for individuals and businesses when, where, and how they need it most. Our market-leading solutions are available on a standalone basis or as a full suite, and all are available via Duck Creek OnDemand. Visit www.duckcreek.com to learn more. Follow Duck Creek on our social channels for the latest information – LinkedIn and X. 

    Media Contacts: 
    Chris Hamilton 
    chris.hamilton@duckcreek.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Ayush has taken multiple initiatives towards integration of Ayush systems of medicine with Allopathic system

    Source: Government of India (2)

    AYUSH

    Ministry of Ayush has taken multiple initiatives towards integration of Ayush systems of medicine with Allopathic system

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Ayush has taken multiple initiatives towards integration of Ayush systems of medicine including Ayurveda with Allopathic system:

    1. The Ayush Vertical under Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), established by the Ministry of Ayush and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW), serves as a dedicated institutional mechanism for planning, monitoring, and supervising Ayush-specific public health programs. This vertical provides technical support to both Ministries in developing strategies for public health, healthcare, Ayush education, and training.
    2. The Ministry of Ayush and MoH&FW have jointly established Integrated Ayush Departments in Central Government Hospitals to promote integrative healthcare. As part of this initiative, Department of Integrative Medicine has been set up and is operational at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung Hospital and Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi through All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi and Central Ayurveda Research Institute (CARI), Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi respectively. No separate funding is allocated for establishing these centres.
    3. An Advisory committee was constituted under the chairpersonship of Dr. V.K. Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog to study the existing knowledge and efficacy of different models of Integrative Medicine and its benefits at large and to propose a framework of comprehensive Integrative Health Policy.
    4. Government of India has adopted a strategy of Co-location of AYUSH facilities at Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs) and District Hospitals (DHs), thus enabling the choice to the patients for different systems of medicines under a single window. The engagement of AYUSH doctors/ paramedics and their training is supported by the MoH&FW under National Health Mission (NHM), while the support for AYUSH infrastructure, equipment/ furniture and medicines are provided by the Ministry of Ayush under National AYUSH Mission (NAM) as shared responsibilities.
    5. The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has undertaken research studies such as Operational study to explore the feasibility of integrating Ayurveda with modern system of medicine in a tertiary care hospital (Safdarjung Hospital New Delhi) for the management of Osteoarthritis (Knee), Feasibility of introducing the Indian System of Medicine (Ayurveda) in the National Reproductive and Child Health services at the Primary Health Care (PHC) level in Himachal Pradesh and Integration of AYUSH systems in the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases & Stroke (NPCDCS) and Feasibility of introducing Ayurveda Intervention in Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) in PHCs of the Selected district (Gadchiroli) of Maharashtra (Effectiveness of Ayurvedic intervention for Ante-Natal care (Garbhini Paricharya) at Primary Health Care level: A Multi Centre Operational Study). Details of the collaborative projects by the Council in the last five years are given in Annexure I.

     

    Further, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and CCRAS has taken an initiative to set up Ayush-ICMR Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research (AI-ACIHR), at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) to conduct research on identified areas focusing on integrative healthcare under Extra Mural research Scheme of ICMR. Under this program, four research areas in four AIIMS have been identified, which are as follows:

     

    1. AIIMS Delhi:
      1. Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Gastro-intestinal Disorders
      2. Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Women and Child Health
    2. AIIMS Jodhpur: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Geriatric Health
    3. AIIMS Nagpur: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Cancer Care
    4. AIIMS Rishikesh: Advanced Centre for Integrative Health Research in Geriatric Health.

     

    1. In All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, integrative medical services are available under, Centre for Integrative Cancer Therapy, Centre for Integrative Dentistry, Centre for Integrative Critical Care & Emergency Medicine, Centre for Integrative Orthopedics, Centre for Integrative Dietetics and Nutrition and Causality OPD Section. Integrated services are also provided through Satellite Clinical Services Units established at Integrative Medical Services Unit at Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, Integrative Medical Services Unit AIIMS Jhajjar and Centre for Integrative Oncology at National Cancer Institute – AIIMS, Jhajjar.
    2. Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), conducts integrated research and also has visiting allopathic doctors for consultation.
    3. The Ministry of Ayush has been implementing the Central Sector Scheme namely Ayurswasthya Yojana since 2021-22. The Scheme has 02 components viz. (i) Ayush & public health (PHI) component and (ii) Upgradation of facilities to the centre of excellence. Under the Centre of Excellence, financial assistance is provided to support creative and innovative proposals of prestigious organizations with well-established buildings and infrastructure and wish to work for Ayush systems to the level of Centre of Excellence. Nine organizations of National repute have been funded under the Centre of Excellence component of Ayurswasthya Yojana under the activity-based/research-based Centre of Excellence for research and development to integrate the knowledge of Ayurveda with the modern system of medicine. Details of organizations are given at Annexure II.

    Annexure I

    LIST OF COLLABORATIVE PROJECTS OF LAST FIVE YEARS 2020-21 TO 2024-25

    1. COMPLETED PROJECTS

     

    S.

    No.

    Name of Project

    Name of the Collaborating Institutes

    1.

    Evaluation of Add on Efficacy & Safety of an Ayurvedic coded Formulation in the management of Dengue Fever & Prevention of its complications – A Double Blind Clinical Study

    National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi, KLE University’s Department of Integrative Medicine, Kolar.

    2.

    A Randomized Placebo Controlled Prospective Phase II Clinical Study of an Ayurvedic Coded Drug ‘AYUSH-D’ on Glycemic control in Pre- Diabetic Subjects

    Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Bengaluru

    AIIMS, New Delhi

    RRA Poddar Medical College, Mumbai

    KLEU’s        Shri       BMK                      Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belgavi

    3.

    A Randomized Placebo Controlled Phase II Clinical Study of an Ayurvedic Coded Drug ‘AYUSH-D’ in the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus as add on Therapy to Metformin

    Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Bengaluru

    AIIMS, New Delhi

    RRA Poddar Medical College, Mumbai

    Rajiv      Gandhi    PG    Govt               Ayurveda College, Paprola

    4.

    Multi-centric Collaborative Double Blind study on clinical evaluation of AYUSH-SL in chronic Filarial Lymphoedema in patients receiving mass drug administration Multi-centric Collaborative Double Blind study on clinical evaluation of AYUSH-SL in chronic Filarial Lymphoedema in patients receiving mass drug administration

    Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine (CSTM) in collaboration with CARI, Kolkata

    Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Bhubaneswar

    Regional Ayurveda Research Institute, Vijayawada

    5.

    Feasibility          of        introducing                          Ayurveda intervention in Reproductive and Child Health

    30 PHCs of Gadchiroli District of Maharashtra

    (RCH) in PHCs of selected district (Gadchiroli) of Maharashtra (Effectiveness of Ayurvedic Intervention for Ante-Natal care (Garbhini Paricharya) at Primary Health Care level: A Multi Centre Operational Study)

    6.

    Randomized control study to evaluate the efficacy of Ayush CCT and Rajyoga Meditation versus conventional treatment on clinical recovery and post-operative outcomes following elective adult cardiothoracic surgeries

    AIIMS, New Delhi

    7.

    Clinical evaluation of the efficacy of “Ayush- SS Granules” in exclusively breast feeding mothers with Insufficient Lactation (Stanyalpata)-A Randomized double blind placebo control Trial”

    Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjang Hospital, New Delhi

    8.

    A comparative clinical study of Ayush LND a coded Ayurvedic formulation in the management of Asrigdara (Abnormal Uterine Bleeding)

    Regional Ayurveda Research Institute,, Nagpur

    Govt. Medical College, Nagpur

    9.

    A Randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of Marma therapy in Lumbar disc Herniation with Radiculopathy.

    Uttrakhand         Ayurved                            University, Dehradun

    10.

    Efficacy of Ayurveda nutritional supplements and Yoga protocol in the prevention and reduction of the severity of Acute Mountain Sickness: an open-label randomized controlled study

    2118 field hospitals, Nimu/Leh under the AFMS, Northern Command of Indian Army

    11.

    A pilot study to assess the effect of intranasal oil instillation (Pratimarsha Nasya) on nasal barrier function among healthy individuals

    Dr D Y Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune

    12.

    Prospective double blind randomized controlled clinical study on Ayurvedic intervention (Sarpagandha Mishran) vs. Amlodipine in the management of stage-I Primary Hypertension

    AIIMS Delhi

    13.

    Randomized double blind placebo controlled clinical study Ayurvedic coded drug AYUSH-A in the management of Bronchial Asthma (Tamaka Shwasa)

    AIIMS Delhi

    14.

    Study the physiological basis and gut bacterial modulation induced by Virechana Purgation therapy in the healthy adults: A prospective longitudinal study.

    Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Delhi

    15.

    Morbidity and Healthcare-seeking behaviour of

    Directorate       General     Armed                         Force

    the patients visiting the Ayurveda healthcare facilities of the DGAFMS Hospitals: A multicentre cross-sectional survey study

    Medical Services- facilities

    16.

    A Randomized Controlled Study to Assess the Effect of Marsha Nasya Karma in Motor, Sensory, Memory and Cognitive Parameters elicited through f – MRI in Apparently Healthy Individuals.

    Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Cochin, Kerala

    17.

    Evaluation of Ayush-GMH in the subjects of mild to moderate Non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-A double blind randomized control clinical study

    KLE’s Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Belagavi ICMR – National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belegavi

    18.

    A randomized trial to evaluate the efficacy of multimodal Ayurveda interventions in Jannu Sandhigatavata (Primary Knee – osteoarthritis)

    AIIMS Delhi

    19.

    Clinical evaluation of Ayurvedic management in Allergic Rhinitis- A Randomized controlled Trial

    Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjang Hospital, New Delhi

     

    1. ONGOING PROJECTS

     

    S.

    No.

    Name of Project

    Name of the Collaborating Institutes

    1.

    A phase II trial to study efficacy, toxicity and imunomodulatory effect of Carctol-S in high grade serous epithelial ovarian cancer at first serological relapse collaborative project.

    Tata Memorial Hospital ACTREC Mumbai & Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Mumbai

    2.

    Evaluation of Hepatoprotective activity of PTK as an add on therapy in the patients of Tuberculosis on ATT – A double blind randomized control clinical study

    KLE’s Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Belagavi

    3.

    Evaluating the efficacy of Ayurvedic intervention as add on to conventional treatment and explore the interaction of epigenetics, neuro/gut biomarkers and neuroimaging in pediatric ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperacidity Disorder)

    National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru

    4.

    Double blind randomized placebo controlled multicentric clinical trial of Ayush M-3 in the management of Migraine.

    National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru

    5.

    Ayurveda therapeutic regiman as on Add-on

    to optimized conventional management of Parkinson’s disease: an RCT for assessment

    National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru

    of clinical Cortical excitability neuroimmune and Autonomic function parameters.

    6.

    Efficacy and safety of Ayurveda Formulation Trikatu as add on to standard care in Dyslipidemia – a randomized controlled trial

    AIIMS, Bhubaneswar

    7.

    Efficacy of Ayurveda regimen (mild purgation and internal oleation) in comparison with Allopathic regimen (Letrozole) along with Yoga module in the management of unexplained and anovulatory female infertility: A RCT

    IIT, Mandi

    8.

    Topical Oil Pooling (Karnapurana) with Kshirabala Taila and supple mentation of Ashwagandha churna (TOPMAC) in presbycusis – An exploratory randomized controlled trial

    Institute for Communicative and Cognitive Neurosciences(ICCONS), Shoranur, Kerela

    9.

    Prospective, Randomized, Open-Label, Blinded End Point exploratory clinical study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic regimen as an adjunct to Hydroxyurea in the management of Sickle cell disease.

    AIIMS, Bhopal

    10.

    A multi-center study to assess the treatment adherence & tolerability of Ayush SR in Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

    Shri B.M. Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belgavi; Vaidyaratnam PS Varier Ayurveda College, Kotakkal; Sri Sri College of Ayurvedic Science and Research, Bengaluru; Adichunchanagiri Ayurvedic Medical College, Bengaluru

    11.

    Impact of Mukta Shukti Bhasma and Saubhagya Shunti in reversal of bone mineral density among Lactating women consuming traditional diet foods in Maharashtra: A randomized Controlled preliminary clinical study

    ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai

    12.

    Efficacy of Ayurveda interventions (Hridyarnava Rasa and Harityakyadi yoga) as an add-on to standard care in Stable Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) assessed through Global Longitudinal Strain Imaging Technique (GLSIT) – A Randomized Controlled Trial.

    Ayurvedic Cardiac Rehabilitation Centre, Madhavbaugh, Pune

    13.

    Prospective double blind randomized controlled clinical study on Ayurvedic intervention (Pushkar guggulu & Haritaki churna) in the management of stable coronary artery disease.

    Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi

    14.

    A randomized double blind placebo control clinical study to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of Swarnaprashan in moderately malnourished children.

    Sanjiv Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow

    15.

    Randomized controlled trial of Anshumati Ksheer Paka in hypertension induced left ventricular hypertrophy

    Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi

    16.

    Anemia control among adolescent girls through Ayurveda interventions in the five districts under Mission Utkarsh

    All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi;

    National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Public Health Foundation India’s IIPH- Delhi

    17.

    An exploratory series of n of 1 responder restricted study of Ayurveda regimen on quality of life among elderly population in Ballabgarh district of Haryana- A community based study.

    AIIMS, Ballabhgarh

    ANNEXURE II

     

    NINE ORGANIZATIONS OF NATIONAL REPUTE FUNDED UNDER CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE COMPONENT OF AYURSWASTHYA SCHEME TO INTEGRATE KNOWLEDGE OF AYURVEDA WITH MODERN SYSTEM OF MEDICINE AYURSWASTHYA SCHEME:

     

    S.

    No.

    Name of the Organization

    State

    Project Name

    Fund Released (Amount in Crore)

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2024-25

    1.

    Tata Memorial Centre, (TMC) Mumbai

    Maharashtra

    Centre                          of

    Excellence   for

    Discovery and Development of AYUSH

    Medicine for Cancer Care

    –

    2.00

    1.62

    2.

    Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI),

    Lucknow

    Uttar Pradesh

    Center                          of

    Excellence                         for Fundamental and Translation Research            in

    Ayurveda          at Central Drug Research Institute

    –

    2.00

    1.99

    3.

    Jawaharlal Nehru University, (JNU) New Delhi

    Delhi

    Functional-based CoE on Ayurveda

    and                Systems Medicine

    –

    1.01

    2.44

    4.

    Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi

    Delhi

    Centre                          of

    Excellence         in Sustainable Ayush             for Advanced technological solutions, startup support and net zero            sustainable solutions    for

    Rasausadhies

    –

    2.00

    1.14

    5.

    Indian Institute of Science (IISC) Bengaluru

    Karnataka

    Centre                          of

    Excellence                          in

    Diabetes                        and Metabolic Disorders

    –

    2.00

    1.82

    6.

    Centre for

    Delhi

    Centre                          of

    2.05

    2.04

    –

    Integrative Medicine and Research (CIMR), AIIMS

    New Delhi

    Excellence                         for

    Yoga                          &

    Ayurveda

    7.

    National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS),

    Bangalore

    Karnataka

    Centre                          of

    Excellence         in Ayush Research

    0.85

    0.37

    –

    8.

    Institute of Liver and                  Biliary Sciences (ILBS)

    Delhi

    Effects of Indian Foods                        and Ayurvedic  drugs

    on healthy and diseases Liver

    2.61

    –

    –

    9.

    Indian Institute of Technology, (IIT) Jodhpur

    Rajasthan

    Centre                          of

    Excellence         in AYURTech                   for Integrative Precision                   Health and Medicine

    –

    4.00

    –

    Total

    5.51

    15.42

    9.01

    This information was given by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

    ***

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2114965)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by Acting CE at Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit Principal Dinner (English only) (with photo/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by Acting CE at Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit Principal Dinner (English only) (with photo) 
    Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good evening. It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to tonight’s Principal Dinner, on the eve of the third annual Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit.
     
    Allow me to begin by thanking our Hong Kong dancers for their elegant and innovative approach to the traditional Chinese lion dance – tonight performed as a lion ballet dance. That mingling of Asian and Western cultures is very much in keeping with today’s Hong Kong, the world’s rising East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
     
    Hong Kong’s singular role as a gainful bridge between East and West is why many of you are here, with us, from all over the world – from Mainland China and throughout Asia, from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and beyond. And while our Chief Executive, John Lee, is unfortunately away on a duty visit, I am delighted to be your host for this evening’s gala dinner.
     
    Over these next few days, I invite you to immerse yourselves in all that Hong Kong has to offer – to discover, first-hand, why our city is the leading choice for family offices.
     
    And for good reason. Hong Kong is a super-connector bringing together people and ideas. We are a platform for visionaries looking to create lasting legacies, a dynamic hub where your offices and families can flourish.
     
    The theme of this year’s Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit, “Hong Kong of the World, for the World,” smartly reflects that reality, spotlights our commitment to international collaboration and mutual rewards.
     
    Hong Kong’s advantages are clear and unique. Our “one country, two systems” framework ensures close and beneficial ties with our country and deep connectivity with the rest of the world.
     
    It helps, too, that Hong Kong is China’s international financial centre and one of the world’s major financial centres. In the latest Global Financial Centres Index, out last week, Hong Kong maintained its position as the world’s third-ranked financial centre, and the top in the Asia-Pacific. In the Index’s “human capital,” “infrastructure” and “financial sector development” areas, Hong Kong climbed to second, worldwide, while our rankings in “business environment” and “reputational and general” rose to third, globally.
     
    We are at the forefront of digitalisation, too, the first government to issue tokenised green bonds, demonstrating our flexibility and support for financial technology.
     
    And we will soon publish a second policy statement on virtual assets, including advancing stablecoin regulations to set a new global standard for the future of digital finance.
     
    Hong Kong is also a hub for world-class events such as this evening’s. We bring together thought leaders, policymakers, and industry innovators to help shape the future of finance, technology and sustainability.
     
    Yesterday, the Milken Institute held its second Global Investors’ Symposium, attracting senior players from finance, business, technology, healthcare, philanthropy and government.
     
    It’s just one of a number of events making up our “Wealth & Investment Mega-Event Week”. The HSBC Global Investment Summit opened earlier today. On Thursday, we have the Bloomberg Family Office Summit. And the World Economic Forum is hosting several sustainability-themed events here, including Friday’s One Earth Summit.
     
    Our commitment to creating an enriching environment extends beyond finance and investment. Earlier this month, we opened Kai Tak Sports Park, the striking, pearl-like landmark rising from the waterfront in East Kowloon.
     
    The world-class venue features a 50 000-seat stadium, complete with a retractable roof, and stunning views to Victoria Harbour from the South Stand. The 100-metre Champions Bar will be a popular watering hole this weekend, given that the renowned Hong Kong Sevens kicks off on Friday.
     
    And there’s more, much more, on tap this month in Hong Kong. Art Basel Hong Kong opens this week, featuring more than 240 galleries from 42 countries and regions. And the five-day Art Central opens tomorrow, spotlighting Asian galleries and emerging artists.
     
    Family offices, let me add, are no less critical to Hong Kong’s flourishing future.
     
    At the inaugural Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit, in 2023, we issued a Policy Statement setting out our strategic vision for family offices.
     
    The majority of the Policy Statement’s eight initiatives have already been implemented, I’m pleased to tell you.
     
    They include establishing a dedicated FamilyOfficeHK team within Invest Hong Kong. To date, the team has helped more than 160 family offices set up or expand their operations in Hong Kong.
     
    We’ve also launched the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, designed to attract asset owners to invest and reside in Hong Kong.
     
    And, more good news, a series of enhancement measures are now in place. They include recognising jointly owned assets and investments through specified family-owned entities. And that works well with the tax concession regime we introduced in 2023 for single-family offices.
     
    We are, let me add, expanding tax concessions for single-family offices, increasing the types of qualifying transactions. Add it up, and I think you’ll agree with me that Hong Kong is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for asset owners.
     
    More good reason to turn to Hong Kong for your family office future. You’ll be in good company, with more than 2 700 single-family offices now operating here.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, I believe we’re just one group photo away from a fine dinner and a fabulous evening.

    ​I wish you all a rewarding Summit and a memorable stay in Hong Kong, Asia’s world city. Thank you.
    Issued at HKT 20:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $690 million for critical road projects in South Australia

    Source: Workplace Gender Equality Agency

    The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future, and investing in the transport infrastructure that South Australians need.  

    The 2025-2026 Federal Budget delivers funding for three new projects including: 

    • $525 million for the High Productivity Vehicle Network (HPVN)
    • $125 million for the Curtis Road Level Crossing Removal
    • $40 million for Main South Road upgrade – Myponga to Yankalilla

    The HPVN will deliver upgrades between the South Eastern Freeway and Sturt Highway such as the duplication of the Swanport Bridge and Murray Bridge Township Bypass in Monarto. 

    The project will provide the necessary infrastructure to enable higher productivity vehicles to bypass Adelaide resulting in fewer trips with reduced vehicle carbon emissions, increased freight efficiency and improved safety for all road users.

    Removal of the Curtis Road Level Crossing in Munno Para in northern Adelaide will eliminate the need for road traffic to interact with the Gawler passenger rail line.

    The project will improve safety and support the significant housing development in the region, improving residents’ access to employment, education and recreational services by reducing road and rail network conflicts. The project will also improve travel times within the northern growth area of Adelaide.

    The Main South Road upgrade – Myponga to Yankalilla will deliver critical safety improvement works along Main South Road between Myponga and Yankalilla, including:

    • two new overtaking lanes
    • targeted curve easing and road widening; and 
    • widening narrow bridges and culverts

    Its completion will create a safer environment for all road users in the area.  

    Quotes attributable to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King: 

    “In this Budget, the Albanese Government is investing in infrastructure in South Australia – in the projects that are needed to make our roads safer, our freight networks more resilient and our transport links better serve communities. 

    “Our Government is committed to working with the Malinauskas Labor Government are get these projects done.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Boothby Louise Miller-Frost:

    “I have been advocating for appropriate and safer traffic solutions for years, in fact since before I was elected. The Liberals, including the previous Member for Boothby, made a complete mess of it, cancelling Globelink and proposing an unsafe inadequate alternative. 

    “Through the investment in this Budget, and these critical new projects, Labor is building South Australia’s future.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Principal dinner sets stage for Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Over 130 influential family office principals and family members from the Mainland, Asia, Europe, the Americas and the Middle East gathered at a principal dinner organised by the Government this evening (March 25) to set the stage for the third edition of the annual Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit (WGHK) to be held tomorrow (March 26), reaffirming the city’s role as a premier global hub for family offices.
     
         In his welcome remarks, the Acting Chief Executive, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, said, “Hong Kong is a ‘super connector’ bringing together people and ideas. We are a platform for visionaries looking to create lasting legacies, a dynamic hub where your offices and families can flourish.”
     
         The evening was graced with the presence of notable speakers Ms Maye Musk and the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford, Professor Irene Tracey, at an inspiring fireside chat moderated by the Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong, Ms Alpha Lau. The speakers shared their insights on women’s influence in leadership and legacy-building with a focus on the critical role of female leadership in shaping the future of business, innovation, and societal progress. The engrossing session fostered an atmosphere of collaboration, paving the way for insightful discussions and new partnerships at tomorrow’s summit, themed “Hong Kong of the World, for the World”.
     
         The event also charmed visitors with a captivating lion ballet performance against the dazzling night view of Victoria Harbour, amazing the attendees with a unique blend of cultural richness and the city’s legendary skyline.
     
         The WGHK will take place tomorrow afternoon with over 300 participants. The summit will not only convene principals and family members to discuss the future of wealth management in the region, but also encourage attendees to experience the city’s dynamic offerings through its vibrant neighbourhoods, dynamic arts scene and strong community spirit, which make the city an ideal destination for both families and businesses.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Melbourne startup HiveKeepers transforms the future of backyard beekeeping worldwide with clean, fast, zero-waste honey extraction

    Source: HiveKeepers

    Melbourne, Australia – Australian startup HiveKeepers has officially launched the Micro Honey Harvester, a world-first innovation designed to revolutionise honey harvesting for backyard and small-scale beekeepers.

    Launching today on Kickstarter, this groundbreaking benchtop device makes it possible to extract fresh, pure honey from the hive in under five minutes—without bulky equipment, sticky messes, or disruption to the bees.

    “We’re not changing the ancient art of beekeeping – but for the first time, we’ve taken the difficult labour out of harvesting and made fresh honey instantly accessible for anyone, anytime” said Simon Mildren. Founder of HiveKeepers.

    A World-First Innovation for Backyard Beekeepers

    The Micro Honey Harvester is a compact, purpose-built system that works with HiveKeepers’ patent-pending frame and cassette technology. Replacing a traditional Langstroth frame inside the hive, the cassette is filled naturally by the bees.Once full, the beekeeper simply removes the cassette, inserts it into the Micro Honey

    Harvester, and with the push of a button, honey is extracted in just 20 seconds – clean, unprocessed, and ready to enjoy.

    No knives. No filters. No sticky clean-up. Just pure honey, harvested at home with minimal effort.

    Why the Micro Honey Harvester Matters

    ● Instant Honey Extraction – From hive to jar in under 5 minutes

    ● No Filtering – A completely closed system with no debris and no processing

    ● Bee-Friendly Design – Minimal hive disruption and no harm to bees

    ● Compact & Portable – About the size of a small coffee machine, ideal for benchtop or bee yard use

    ● Eliminates Honey Fraud – Pure, traceable honey straight from your hive.

    “Beekeepers have long been stuck using harvesting tools built for commercial operators,” Mildren added. “This is the first time a solution has been created specifically for backyard beekeepers – making the experience simple, clean, and more rewarding.”

    Designed in Australia, Built for the World

    The Micro Honey Harvester is 100% Australian designed and made, with global interest already building ahead of launch. Developed in collaboration with industrial designers and experienced beekeepers, it supports smaller, more frequent harvests – giving beekeepers more time to focus on hive health and bee care.

    HiveKeepers believes this innovation will have a global impact, reshaping how hobbyists engage with honey production while supporting sustainable beekeeping practices worldwide.

    “This is just the beginning,” says Mildren. “Our vision is a future where harvesting honey is as easy and accessible as making coffee from a pod, no mess, no stress, no waste.”

    Kickstarter Campaign Now Live

    The Micro Honey Harvester is now available for pre-order via Kickstarter (RRP$424 USD $674 AUD), with early access and limited-edition rewards available to backers worldwide.

    The company expects strong demand from international hobbyists, educators, sustainable farming communities, and bee health advocates.Visit HiveKeepers: www.hivekeepers.com

    About HiveKeepers

    Founded in Melbourne, Australia, HiveKeepers is on a mission to make beekeeping more accessible, sustainable, and rewarding for everyday people. By designing innovative tools like the Micro Honey Harvester, HiveKeepers is empowering a new generation of hobbyist beekeepers around the world – one hive at a time.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tech and Security – New Zealand Sextortion Threats Up 137%

    Source: Botica Butler Raudon Partners

    Sextortion Scams More Threatening in 2025, Fueled by AI-Powered Attacks and Data Breaches

    AUCKLAND, 25 March 2025 – Sextortion scams are becoming more common – and more threatening – as cybercriminals exploit artificial intelligence (AI) and large-scale data breaches to develop highly convincing scams. A recent analysis by Avast, a leader in digital security and privacy and part of Gen (NASDAQ: GEN), found that in 2025 so far, the risk of being targeted with sextortion scams in the NZ has risen 137%.

    New Zealand is not alone: Avast researchers are seeing countries around the world being impacted by these highly manipulative scams. In the US, the likelihood of being targeted by sextortion scammers also increased 137% in the first few months of 2025. The UK and Australia’s risk rose 49% and 34% respectively. Avast also revealed the top 10 countries most vulnerable to these scams, with Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa, Italy, Australia, UAE, the UK, Switzerland and Czech Republic facing the highest risk ratios for sextortion in the last calendar year.

    New Threatening and Intrusive Tactics

    Criminals are refining their tactics, thanks to the help of AI and a wealth of personal data available from recent large-scale breaches. As the sophistication of AI increases, so do the explicit extortion emails scammers are sending. AI is being used by scammers to create ‘deepfake’ images, fake explicit photos created by superimposing a victim’s face onto another body, coupled with threatening messages to distribute them.

    Michal Salat, Threat Intelligence Director for Avast comments: “Our analysis reveals that sextortion victims frequently receive threatening messages claiming access to their private videos and images. These scams are made even more convincing with the use of stolen passwords from past data breaches, lending an alarming sense of credibility.”

    “Fear of exposure, especially when personal details appear accurate, often pressures victims into complying with ransom demands. However, we strongly advise against engaging with these scammers, no matter how real the threats may seem.”

    One of the latest techniques used by cybercriminals involves Google Maps and is designed to employ a more invasive and personalised approach that can really shock and intimidate their victims into complying with demands.

    Criminals – utilizing names, addresses, and emails readily available on the Dark Web due to data breaches – can create very targeted emails to victims containing fabricated footage and unsettling information and images of their real homes. Scammers will also claim to have gained access to victims’ devices to extort their victims by threatening to share sexual content or information about them. Cybersecurity experts at Avast have identified over 15,000 unique Bitcoin wallets associated with the Google Maps scam, though the scope of the operation is likely much larger.

    Avast experts emphasise the importance of proactive protection against sextortion scams and urge people to never engage with messages that could be from scammers. The following actions help to combat sextortion efforts:

    • Do not pay ransom demands or respond to threats.
    • Do not engage with these emails, texts or calls or open any associated PDF attachments.
    • Always report such crimes to the relevant cybercrime units including the NZ Police and Netsafe for support.
    • Use a reputable password manager to ensure unique passwords for all accounts and prevent reuse.
    • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible to enhance account security.
    • Monitor your data for breaches by using dark web monitoring services, through products such as Avast Secure Identity, to be alerted when personal information is exposed so you can act quickly to help protect your accounts.
    • Do not panic – stay informed and take action to secure your accounts.

    As sextortion scams become more advanced, it is crucial for individuals to remain cautious and take steps to safeguard their digital privacy. Public awareness and vigilance remain critical in combating these threats.

    For more information, visit https://www.avast.com/

    About Avast
    Avast is a leader in digital security and privacy, and part of Gen™ (NASDAQ: GEN), a global company dedicated to powering Digital Freedom with a family of trusted consumer brands. Avast protects hundreds of millions of users from online threats, for Mobile, PC or Mac and is top-ranked and certified by VB100, AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, SE Labs and others. Avast is a member of the Coalition Against Stalkerware, No More Ransom and Internet Watch Foundation. Learn more at Avast.com. Visit: www.avast.com.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – We’ve done it again! CH4 Global named one of TIME Magazine’s Top GreenTech Companies

    Source: CH4 Global

    ADELAIDE, South Australia – CH4 Global has been named as one of Time Magazine’s Top GreenTech Companies for the second year in a row – in recognition of continued progress towards scaling, including the development of its Louth Bay EcoPark to grow its seaweed-based cattle feed supplement that reduces enteric methane emissions by up to 90 per cent.

    The second annual GreenTech rankings, prepared by TIME and Statista, considered more than 4,000 companies and evaluated them based on their positive environmental impact, financial strength and innovative ability. CH4 Global was among 250 companies selected for the award.

    CH4 Global’s inclusion in the 2025 ranking highlights the company’s continued progress in scaling Methane Tamer , its Asparagopsis-based feed additive, which reduces enteric methane emissions from cattle by up to 90 per cent.

    The distinction comes just weeks after CH4 Global opened phase one of its Louth Bay EcoPark, on Eyre Peninsula, where it has begun to grow and process Asparagopsis in 10 large-scale cultivation ponds with a combined capacity of 2 million litres – capable of producing 80 metric tonnes of the seaweed each year.

    Over the next year, the facility will expand to 100 ponds capable of producing enough Asparagopsis to serve 45,000 cattle per day – a significant step toward meeting demand from CH4 Global’s existing commercial partners in Australia and beyond. With additional investment, the facility could eventually expand to 500 ponds capable of serving hundreds of thousands of cattle per day.

    “This recognition by TIME Magazine for the second year running underscores the urgency of tackling livestock methane emissions and the effectiveness of our solution at scale,” said CH4 Global CEO Steve Meller.

    “The momentum behind our solution is building, and we are on course to deliver gigatonne-scale climate impact within the next decade by making methane reduction practical, affordable and widely accessible.“In Australia, the CH4 Global team has worked tirelessly to develop the EcoPark and to start growing Asparagopsis at scale, while working with our partners in South Korea, South America, Japan, the Asia Pacific, the UK and the US, to be able to reach as many cows as possible in the coming years as we work to mitigate climate change.”

    CH4 Global is working to reduce methane emissions from cows, which is naturally-produced in their stomachs and released through burping. Methane is more than 80 times more potent than CO2 in trapping heat in the atmosphere over a 20-year period, making it a critical target of efforts to combat global warming.

    The full list of TIME’s America’s Top GreenTech Companies 2025 is available at TIME.com.

    About CH4 Global

    CH4 Global, founded in 2018, is on an urgent mission to bend the climate curve, through collaboration with strategic partners worldwide. Led by a world-class team of senior business builders, scientists and entrepreneurs, the company delivers market-disruptive products that enable the food industry value chain to radically reduce GHG emissions.

    The company’s first innovation, Methane Tamer feed additives for feedlot cattle, harnesses the power of Asparagopsis seaweed to reduce enteric methane emissions by up to 90 per cent. CH4 Global is headquartered in Henderson, Nevada, with facilities to grow Asparagopsis in Australia at Louth Bay, Arno Bay and at Lonsdale in South Australia, and in Bluff and Bream Bay in New Zealand. To learn more, visit

    www.ch4global.com.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia Legal Sector – Parole Board welcome, but private legal aid workforce left behind

    Source: Law Council of Australia

    The Law Council of Australia is pleased to see its long-standing call for a Commonwealth Parole Board recognised in tonight’s Federal Budget, but is disappointed the Commonwealth has failed to ensure the sustainability of the vital legal aid services provided by private practitioners that underpin access to justice in this country.

    “We commend the Federal Government for the support it had previously announced under the new National Access to Justice Partnership, and we recognise the important funding announcements tonight for the establishment of a Commonwealth Parole Board and to extend specialist trauma informed sexual assault legal services pilots,” Law Council of Australia President, Juliana Warner said.
     
    “However, the Law Council remains concerned that a vital pillar of access to justice in this country remains overlooked.
     
    “What is still missing is additional funding to ensure the thousands of private practitioners who provide legal aid do not have to walk away from providing this service because it is simply unviable.
     
    “Around 72 per cent of legal aid approved matters are assigned to private practitioners. Each year, these practitioners are delivering more than 100,000 cases to assist Australians in times of crisis and distress.
     
    “The vast majority of law firms in this country are small businesses. It is these small businesses – particularly in rural, regional and remote (RRR) areas – that most often deliver legal aid and ensure that people in need have somewhere to turn when they are seeking access to justice. They are the lifeblood of justice in Australia.
     
    “As we know from the recently released National Legal Aid Private Practitioner Census, these small businesses are at breaking point and tonight’s Budget was a critical moment for many hoping that fairer legal aid grants funding – as recommended in a recent independent review commissioned by the Government – would finally be delivered.
     
    “In some cases, the payments lawyers receive for legal aid work have not changed in
    10 years and are around three times less than what they can earn privately. Private practitioners are still choosing to provide this vital service, but at great personal cost and at the expense of their small business’s viability.
     
    “The Private Practitioner Census found that a third of private lawyers are having to contemplate doing less legal aid work in the next five years – if they can even continue to provide legal aid at all.
     
    “National Legal Aid has warned that a crisis is looming and that in just five years, by 2030, Australia’s legal aid system could collapse. Tonight’s Budget was an opportunity to turn the ship around before it is too late. Unfortunately, it was an opportunity which was missed.
     
    “Despite the inaction on these issues in the Budget tonight, the upcoming Federal Election is another important opportunity for those seeking to be our elected representatives to commit to addressing this looming crisis and ensure that legal help will be there for those who need it,” Ms Warner said.
     
    The Law Council has had a long-standing position supporting the establishment of a Commonwealth Parole Board and welcomes the Government’s announcement that it will provide $28.3 million over four years from 2025–26, and $7.3 million per year ongoing, for this purpose.
     
    “Currently, once a federal offender is sentenced, responsibility for determining parole shifts to the executive branch of the government. The Law Council strongly supports taking the politics out of parole.” Ms Warner said.
     
    “The establishment of a Commonwealth Parole Board will help to protect the right of incarcerated individuals to have their application for liberty considered in a transparent and accountable manner and address the risk of perceived political interference in parole decisions.
     
    “The successful functioning of a Commonwealth Parole Board will be determined by the extent to which the final model is underpinned by four key design principles—independence, transparency, procedural fairness, and accountability.”
     
    Other welcome measures include:
    • $21.4 million over three years from 2025–26 to improve victim and survivor engagement in the justice system and inform the response to the Australian Law Reform Commission’s (ALRC) Inquiry into the Justice System’s Response to Sexual Violence. Funding includes:
     
    o $19.6 million over three years from 2025–26 to extend three specialist trauma informed sexual assault legal services pilots in Victoria, WA and the ACT, expand the pilots nationally and trial additional non-legal support services;
     
    o $1.2 million over two years from 2025–26 to extend the ALRC’s lived experience Advisory Group for one year to advise on implementation of the ALRC’s report and support stakeholder engagement; and
     
    o $0.6 million in 2025–26 for research into systemic issues and other matters arising from the ALRC’s inquiry, including a mechanism to seek review of police decisions not to pursue charges.
     
    • $1.6 million in 2025–26 to the Attorney-General’s Department to continue law and justice capacity building in the Pacific.
     
    • $1.0 million in 2025–26 to Attorney-General’s Department to provide grants for community‑based projects to prevent modern slavery.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Human Rights and Sport – Global: FIFA must recognize, support Afghan Women’s team in exile

    Source: Amnesty International

    New Report Details Afghan Women Footballers’ Fight for Right to Play

    (Amsterdam, March 25, 2025) – The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) should act to stop the ongoing discrimination against Afghan women footballers living in exile and facilitate their return to international competition, the Sport & Rights Alliance said in a report released today.

    In two days, the Afghanistan Women’s National Football Team (AWNT) will be absent from the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers draw, which feeds into qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup – marking the second World Cup-qualifying cycle from which the team has been excluded since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021.

    “Though the Afghanistan Women’s National Team escaped the Taliban in 2021, the shadow of systematic gender discrimination continues to follow them across borders, denying them their rightful place on the international stage,” said Samira Hamidi, South Asia campaigner at Amnesty International. “Amnesty, the United Nations, Human Rights Watch and other civil society organizations, has called for the Taliban’s gender persecution to be investigated as crimes against humanity.”

    The new Sport & Rights Alliance report, titled “’It’s not just a game. It’s part of who I am’: Afghan Women Footballers’ Fight for the Right to Play,” details how the Afghan women’s team, a symbol of women’s empowerment in post-Taliban Afghanistan, was specifically targeted for reprisals when the Taliban returned to power in 2021. The report documents that dozens of Afghan women footballers who were evacuated to countries including Australia, Portugal, Albania, the United Kingdom and the United States remain eager and ready to represent Afghanistan in international competition.

    “Right now, the game is at halftime, and the Taliban think they are winning,” said Khalida Popal, founder of the Afghanistan Women’s National Team and Girl Power Organization. “If FIFA would change its rules and let us play, we could show the world that Afghan women and girls belong in sport, in school and everywhere in society – and we will not be defeated.”

    FIFA regulations currently require the team to receive recognition from the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan Football Federation, which will not recognize a women’s football team due to the Taliban’s ban on women’s sports. For more than three years, the Afghan women’s team players and their supporters have campaigned for FIFA to intervene and provide them with the official recognition and financial support denied to them by Afghanistan.

    In response to a letter from the Sport & Rights Alliance requesting comment on the report, FIFA shared on 21 March that a plan has been developed to provide football opportunities for Afghan women both within and outside the country, but did not say whether they intend to officially recognize the AWNT or how specific funding would be allocated.

    “The Afghanistan Women’s National Team has shown remarkable resilience since its establishment – even in the face of harassment, abuse and death threats, and being forced to leave their homes and build new lives in cities all over the world,” said Joanna Maranhão, network coordinator for the Sport & Rights Alliance’s Athletes Network for Safer Sports. “Restoring the AWNT’s ability to access training facilities and resources to play and represent their country would be an important form of remedy, as required under international human rights law.”

    The FIFA Statutes and Human Rights Policy prohibit discrimination of any kind, including gender discrimination, and commits the global sport governing body to promoting women’s football. The FIFA Statutes mandate that all member associations comply with the organization’s regulations, including the obligation to prevent and oppose discrimination and to promote women’s football. Member associations may face sanctions for any violations of these obligations.

    “Afghan women footballers’ ability to play internationally depends entirely on intervention from FIFA,” said Andrea Florence, executive director of the Sport & Rights Alliance. “FIFA’s letter in response to our report laid out their strategy to support Afghan women. It is great to hear that FIFA is working to promote playing opportunities for the players, but we remain hopeful that they will decide to officially recognize the team and allocate financial support as it does to other member associations.”

    The Sport & Rights Alliance also said that FIFA should provide financial support for the women’s team to train and participate in international competitions, as it does with other member associations. Through the FIFA Forward Development Programme for instance,  each of FIFA’s 211 member associations are currently entitled to up to $9.2 million over a four-year period.

    The Afghan team’s campaign has garnered global attention and support over the last three years, including from Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai and nearly 200,000 people who have signed a Change.org petition urging FIFA to recognize the team in exile.

    “For these athletes, football is not only their passion but a fundamental act of resistance against the Taliban – an act of solidarity with their sisters still living in Afghanistan,” said Fereshta Abbasi, Asia researcher at Human Rights Watch. “FIFA’s recognition of and support for the team would be a powerful statement that Afghan women’s rights cannot be erased.”

    The International Olympic Committee (IOC) did recognize an Afghan Olympic Committee in exile for the 2024 Paris Olympics, enabling Afghan women athletes to compete despite Taliban restrictions. Several UN experts called this move from the IOC a “welcome start,” but called on international and national sports bodies to do more to push back against the Taliban’s oppressive policies and “support female Afghan athletes wherever they are.”

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Members look into bolstering support for trade policies, fast-tracking digital trade growth

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Members look into bolstering support for trade policies, fast-tracking digital trade growth

    The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) noted that Aid-for-Trade disbursements reached USD 48 billion in 2023, representing a 5 per cent decrease from 2022.  While most funds were channelled towards strengthening infrastructure and productive sectors, the OECD noted, only 2 per cent of Aid for Trade was allocated to trade policy and regulations.
    Representatives from Australia, Barbados, the Pacific Islands Forum and the United Kingdom shared their insights into ways to increase the participation of developing economies in the multilateral trading system. They highlighted that it is important for economies to develop and implement national strategies and to coordinate effectively with development partners. For example, progress in implementing the Pacific Aid-for-Trade Strategy, covering services, e-commerce, trade facilitation and quality infrastructure, was acknowledged.
    The financial support dedicated to the WTO accession of Comoros and Timor-Leste was highlighted. Speakers also acknowledged the support provided under the Advisory Centre on WTO Law, the Enhanced Integrated Framework, the Fish Fund and the Standards and Trade Development Facility.
    The role of cooperation among developing economies in strengthening these economies’ trade capacities was also recognized. Speakers welcomed greater collaboration with the private sector on scaling up financial support.
    Members also examined the European Union’s 2024 Aid for Trade Progress Report. As one of the top donors of Aid for Trade, the European Union and its member states provided 36 per cent of the total disbursements in 2022, accounting for EUR 22 billion. The report also highlighted the role of Aid for Trade in creating an enabling environment for investments under the EU’s Global Gateway investment strategy.
    According to the Digital Trade Integration Database of the European University Institute, the level of integration into digital trade differs widely across economies, with fewer enabling policies observed in lower-income economies.  The database contains information on the digital trade policies of 146 economies.
    Speakers noted that in Africa, digital trade integration is being held back by regulatory fragmentation, infrastructure gaps and limited access of small businesses to digital markets.
    To bolster the continent’s digital trade expansion, speakers underlined the importance of technical assistance and capacity-building activities to harmonize digital trade regulations, investments in broadband and logistics and greater access of small businesses to digital trade finance. For example, speakers stressed the importance of fully implementing the Digital Trade Protocol of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Estimates indicate this could increase intra-regional trade in services by up to 10.3 per cent.
    More information on the WTO-led Aid for Trade initiative can be found here.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: FIFA must recognize, support Afghan women’s team in exile

    Source: Amnesty International –

    New Report Details Afghan Women Footballers’ Fight for Right to Play

    The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) should act to stop the ongoing discrimination against Afghan women footballers living in exile and facilitate their return to international competition, the Sport & Rights Alliance said in a report released today.

    In two days, the Afghanistan Women’s National Football Team (AWNT) will be absent from the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers draw, which feeds into qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup – marking the second World Cup-qualifying cycle from which the team has been excluded since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021.

    “Though the Afghanistan Women’s National Team escaped the Taliban in 2021, the shadow of systematic gender discrimination continues to follow them across borders, denying them their rightful place on the international stage,” said Samira Hamidi, South Asia campaigner at Amnesty International. “Amnesty, the United Nations, Human Rights Watch and other civil society organizations, has called for the Taliban’s gender persecution to be investigated as crimes against humanity.”

    The new Sport & Rights Alliance report, titled “‘It’s not just a game. It’s part of who I am’: Afghan Women Footballers’ Fight for the Right to Play,” details how the Afghan women’s team, a symbol of women’s empowerment in post-Taliban Afghanistan, was specifically targeted for reprisals when the Taliban returned to power in 2021. The report documents that dozens of Afghan women footballers who were evacuated to countries including Australia, Portugal, Albania, the United Kingdom and the United States remain eager and ready to represent Afghanistan in international competition.

    “Right now, the game is at halftime, and the Taliban think they are winning,” said Khalida Popal, founder of the Afghanistan Women’s National Team and Girl Power Organization. “If FIFA would change its rules and let us play, we could show the world that Afghan women and girls belong in sport, in school and everywhere in society – and we will not be defeated.”

    FIFA regulations currently require the team to receive recognition from the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan Football Federation, which will not recognize a women’s football team due to the Taliban’s ban on women’s sports. For more than three years, the Afghan women’s team players and their supporters have campaigned for FIFA to intervene and provide them with the official recognition and financial support denied to them by Afghanistan.

    In response to a letter from the Sport & Rights Alliance requesting comment on the report, FIFA shared on 21 March that a plan has been developed to provide football opportunities for Afghan women both within and outside the country, but did not say whether they intend to officially recognize the AWNT or how specific funding would be allocated.

    “The Afghanistan Women’s National Team has shown remarkable resilience since its establishment – even in the face of harassment, abuse and death threats, and being forced to leave their homes and build new lives in cities all over the world,” said Joanna Maranhão, network coordinator for the Sport & Rights Alliance’s Athletes Network for Safer Sports. “Restoring the AWNT’s ability to access training facilities and resources to play and represent their country would be an important form of remedy, as required under international human rights law.”

    The FIFA Statutes and Human Rights Policy prohibit discrimination of any kind, including gender discrimination, and commits the global sport governing body to promoting women’s football. The FIFA Statutes mandate that all member associations comply with the organization’s regulations, including the obligation to prevent and oppose discrimination and to promote women’s football. Member associations may face sanctions for any violations of these obligations.

    “Afghan women footballers’ ability to play internationally depends entirely on intervention from FIFA,” said Andrea Florence, executive director of the Sport & Rights Alliance. “FIFA’s letter in response to our report laid out their strategy to support Afghan women. It is great to hear that FIFA is working to promote playing opportunities for the players, but we remain hopeful that they will decide to officially recognize the team and allocate financial support as it does to other member associations.”

    The Sport & Rights Alliance also said that FIFA should provide financial support for the women’s team to train and participate in international competitions, as it does with other member associations. Through the FIFA Forward Development Programme for instance,  each of FIFA’s 211 member associations are currently entitled to up to $9.2 million over a four-year period.

    The Afghan team’s campaign has garnered global attention and support over the last three years, including from Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai and nearly 200,000 people who have signed a Change.org petition urging FIFA to recognize the team in exile.

    “For these athletes, football is not only their passion but a fundamental act of resistance against the Taliban – an act of solidarity with their sisters still living in Afghanistan,” said Fereshta Abbasi, Asia researcher at Human Rights Watch. “FIFA’s recognition of and support for the team would be a powerful statement that Afghan women’s rights cannot be erased.”

    The International Olympic Committee (IOC) did recognize an Afghan Olympic Committee in exile for the 2024 Paris Olympics, enabling Afghan women athletes to compete despite Taliban restrictions. Several UN experts called this move from the IOC a “welcome start,” but called on international and national sports bodies to do more to push back against the Taliban’s oppressive policies and “support female Afghan athletes wherever they are.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: On holding auctions on March 26, 2025 to place OFZ issues No. 26218RMFS and No. 26240RMFS

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    For bidders

    We inform you that, based on the letter of the Bank of Russia and in accordance with Part I. General Part and Part II. Stock Market Section of the Rules for Conducting Trading on the Stock Market, Deposit Market and Credit Market of Moscow Exchange PJSC, the order establishes the form, time, term and procedure for holding auctions for the placement and trading of the following federal loan bonds:

    1.

    Name of the Issuer Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation
    Name of security Federal loan bonds with constant coupon income
    State registration number of the issue 26218RMFS from 23.10.2015
    Date of the auction March 26, 2025
    Information about the placement (trading mode, placement form) The placement of Bonds will be carried out in the Trading Mode “Placement: Auction” by holding an Auction to determine the placement price. BoardId: PACT (Settlements: Ruble)
    Trade code CO26218RMFSB
    ISIN code RO000A0ZHVV48
    Calculation code B01
    Additional conditions of placement The share of non-competitive bids in relation to the total volume of bids submitted by the Bidder may not exceed 90%.
    Trading time Trading hours: bid collection period: 12:00 – 12:30; bid execution period: 13:00 – 18:00.

    2.

    Name of the Issuer Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation
    Name of security federal loan bonds with constant coupon income
    State registration number of the issue 26240RMFS from 06/28/2021
    Date of the auction March 26, 2025
    Information about the placement (trading mode, placement form) The placement of Bonds will be carried out in the Trading Mode “Placement: Auction” by holding an Auction to determine the placement price. BoardId: PACT (Settlements: Ruble)
    Trade code CO26240RMFS0
    ISIN code RO000A103br0
    Calculation code B01
    Additional conditions of placement The share of non-competitive bids in relation to the total volume of bids submitted by the Bidder may not exceed 90%.
    Trading time Trading hours: bid collection period: 14:30 – 15:00; bid execution period: 15:30 – 18:00.

    Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MEEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Federal Home Loan Banks Report Strong Financial Performance in 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, March 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLBanks) today published their Combined Financial Report for 2024 (CFR), reporting strong System financial performance across several metrics. According to the CFR, the FHLBanks had $740.9 billion in principal of advances, $68.7 billion in principal of mortgage loans held for portfolio, and $219.9 billion in notional standby letters of credit outstanding at the end of 2024 to thousands of financial institution members in communities large and small across the United States. Fueled entirely by private capital, the FHLBanks empower local lenders to open doors to homeownership, support businesses, and facilitate community development.

    The CFR also indicates that the FHLBanks committed a record $1.2 billion in combined statutory and voluntary contributions to the Affordable Housing Program (AHP) and other voluntary programs in 2024. AHP funding and funding for voluntary initiatives is a direct outgrowth of the FHLBank’s fulfilment of their primary liquidity mission.

    Ryan Donovan, President and CEO of the Council of Federal Home Loan Banks, the public voice of the 11 FHLBanks, acknowledged the strong financial and operational results in 2024 and reinforced the connection between the FHLBanks’ liquidity mission and support for affordable housing and community development.

    “The FHLBanks are an integral part of the nation’s financial ecosystem and the liquidity they provide transforms private capital into real world housing and community impact,” said Donovan. “We are extremely proud of the $1.2 billion of funding the FHLBanks committed to affordable housing and community development in 2024. What the FHLBanks do every day matters a great deal for homeowners, for local businesses, for affordable housing, and for communities of all shapes and sizes. More than 90 percent of FHLBank members are community-based lenders and by continually fulfilling their liquidity mission and leveraging the strong relationships they have with their members and other local stakeholders, the FHLBanks are making meaningfully positive impact on housing affordability, housing supply, and community development in communities across the country.”

    As part of their mission to provide liquidity and support affordable housing and community development, each FHLBank is required by law to contribute a minimum of 10 percent of income to its Affordable Housing Program. In recognition of the critical need for additional funds to support a range of affordable housing and community development programs, in 2023 the FHLBanks began making contributions representing an additional five percent of their earnings to their individual voluntary affordable housing and community investment initiatives. In total, the FHLBanks contributed more than 15 percent of their net earnings to support affordable housing and community development related initiatives.

    FHLBank funding for affordable housing and community development is made available only through FHLBank member financial institutions, and programs are specifically targeted to meet needs within each FHLBank district. Funding ranges from several thousand dollars to help individuals afford a down payment on a home to more than one million dollars to support developers of affordable housing projects. Funding also supports small businesses, local schools, homeless shelters, local libraries and historical societies, and various other entities, providing a fundamental safety net to communities across the country.

    About: The FHLBanks are 11 regionally based, wholesale suppliers of lendable funds to financial institutions of all sizes and many types, including community banks, credit unions, commercial and savings banks, insurance companies, and community development financial institutions. The FHLBanks are cooperatively owned by member financial institutions in all 50 states and U.S. territories. The steady supply of lendable funds from FHLBanks helps U.S. lenders invest in local needs including housing, jobs, and economic growth. The Council of FHLBanks represents all 11 FHLBanks.

    CONTACT INFORMATION
    Council of FHLBanks
    Peter E. Garuccio
    202-955-0002 ext. 14
    pgaruccio@cfhlb.org

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Podcasting was once a rebel medium for diverse voices. Now it’s slowly being consumed by big media

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Corey Martin, Lecturer/Podcast Producer, Swinburne University of Technology

    Shutterstock

    Podcasting was once the underdog of the media world: a platform where anyone with a microphone and an idea could share their voice.

    With low barriers to entry and freedom from institutional gatekeeping, it promised to amplify marginalised voices and allow underrepresented groups to tell their own stories, on their own terms.

    Today, however, this promise seems increasingly strained as corporate interests tighten their grip on the industry. As money flows in, the podcasting space is beginning to resemble the rest of the digital media world – driven by advertising revenues and political polarisation.

    The promise of podcasting

    Six years ago, audio scholars Martin Spinelli and Lance Dann described podcasting as a “revolutionary” medium for its ability to inspire empathy through innovative forms of audio.

    Podcasting was heralded as a format that broke through the barriers of traditional media by offering new ways to engage with underrepresented voices and ideas. Media and cultural studies pointed to the direct-to-ear delivery – free from the biases of visual culture – as a uniquely intimate way to consume content.

    Globally, the industry boomed as a result of pandemic lockdowns, with the number of podcasts on Spotify skyrocketing from 450,000 in 2019, to 1.5 million in 2020.

    Listenership has also surged in Australia. According to a 2024 report by Edison Research, we’ve seen a 20% increase in listenership from 2022 to 2024 – with 48% of the those aged 12 and above having listened to a podcast within the past month.

    From open space to rat race

    In his 2024 book Podcasting in a Platform Age, podcast researcher John Sullivan warns the podcasting space is being increasingly dominated by a handful of powerful media companies that dictate what and who gets visibility.

    Larger podcasts with higher production budgets, celebrity hosts and backing from major networks are attracting larger audiences, with independent creators struggling to get a foot in the door.

    At the time of writing, of the top 50 most popular podcasts in Australia, more than half (52%) come from overseas, and primarily the United States.

    Of the 24 Australian-made podcasts on the list, 80% are backed by a media organisation, with most (64%) connected to major networks such as LiSTNR, which is owned by Southern Cross Austereo. Only 12% of the Australian podcasts on the list come from truly independent creators without any corporate funding or major production support.

    Why does it matter that large-network ownership is on the rise? To understand this, it helps to first understand how ads keep podcast networks in business – and how this can impact content decisions.

    Deepening ideological divides

    Advertisers follow the crowds. In a podcasting context, this means they’re more likely to funnel their dollars into large networks, further bolstering their resources.

    At the same time, networks want to drive as many ears to their ad sponsors as possible. To do this, they focus on producing content they know will get the most engagement.

    The result is a vicious cycle in which attention and advertising power feed each other, making it even harder for independent voices to break through. Over time, this feedback loop can lead to less content diversity and more polarisation.

    According to Spotify’s 2024 Wrapped, American podcaster Joe Rogan took out the top podcast spot for the fifth year in a row globally.
    Shutterstock

    It’s here that we’re seeing an increase of politicians using podcasts to push their views and cultivate ideological loyalty.

    In the lead-up to the 2024 US election, Kamala Harris appeared on Call Her Daddy (the second most popular Spotify podcast in 2024), while Donald Trump was on The Joe Rogan Experience (the most popular). Both interviews were later fact-checked and found to contain false or misleading claims.

    Trump’s interview in particular was flagged by CNN for having 32 false claims. Nonetheless, analysts and researchers pointed to it as a driver behind his success with young male voters.

    The political podcasting trend is also playing out in Australia ahead of the next federal election.

    Late last year, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton appeared on the podcast Diving Deep With Sam Fricker. This was followed by an appearance on Straight Talk, hosted by businessman Mark Bouris, in January.

    More recently, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Greens leader Adam Bandt separately appeared on It’s A Lot with Abbie Chatfield.



    Read more:
    Misinformation is rife and causing deeper polarisation – here’s how social media users can help curb it

    Diversity in the podcasting space

    According to 2022 Pew Research Centre data, 55% of Americans said their major reason for listening to podcasts was “to learn”, while 29% said they wanted to stay up-to-date with current affairs. But information-hungry listeners may be getting shortchanged, as podcasts are less likely to be fact-checked against the same editorial standards that govern traditional media.

    As platform researcher Michael Bossetta notes, although large platforms such as Spotify have the potential to create a more informed world, they
    are more likely to push content that keeps users hooked (that is, content they already enjoy and/or agree with).

    Recommender algorithms also have a role to play. One 2020 study found that while Spotify’s personalised suggestions increased user engagement by 28.90%, they also reduced the individual-level diversity of podcast streams by 11.51%.

    But platforms do have the power to do better. They could, for instance, use their algorithms to prioritise content diversity. This would help ease the “engagement-diversity trade-off”, in which personalisation increases engagement, but limits the diversity of content consumed by an individual.

    That said, it’s unlikely platforms will voluntarily change the way they operate. If meaningful reforms are to happen, they will more likely have to come from government regulations or through independent governing bodies.

    In the meantime, listeners aren’t powerless. While we can’t stop algorithms from pushing certain content to the top of our feeds, we can disrupt them by actively seeking out independent voices and diverse stories.

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

    – ref. Podcasting was once a rebel medium for diverse voices. Now it’s slowly being consumed by big media – https://theconversation.com/podcasting-was-once-a-rebel-medium-for-diverse-voices-now-its-slowly-being-consumed-by-big-media-252169

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –