Category: Aviation

MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Takes New Actions to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate
Source: The White House

Over the past year, the Biden-Harris Administration has continued to take action to fight hatred and violence against Muslim and Arab communities. Members of these communities, including Palestinian Americans, have been murdered or wounded in hate-fueled attacks; shot and subjected to other assaults as they simply walked down streets; bullied at schools, including by having their religious head coverings ripped off; and denied jobs, harassed, or demoted at work merely because of their faith or ethnicity.

President Biden and Vice President Harris are leading efforts to bring about much-needed change and have repeatedly condemned such violence, discrimination, and bias. These efforts are part of a larger Administration initiative to counter hate in all its forms, to keep every community safe, to promote equal justice, and to afford all Americans a fair shot at success. For generations, Muslim and Arab Americans have contributed to the enrichment and prosperity of our nation through their public, military, and community service, in addition to many other invaluable contributions. And like all Americans, they are entitled to the promise and opportunities of our great nation.

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is highlighting some actions taken as part of its forthcoming National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Hatred Against Arabs in the United States, including important steps to address daily concerns regarding safety and discrimination, as well as issues related to travel. The Administration will continue to lead a whole-of-government and a whole-of society effort to counter hate.

Completed executive branch actions that are part of the forthcoming Strategy include:

Improving Safety and Security
- The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) have completed an unclassified assessment on violent threats facing Muslim and Arab communities in the United States. The assessment will be published this week, and is the first of what will be an annual assessment by these agencies regarding threats facing these communities.
- Since 2021, DOJ has awarded over $100 million in grants to law enforcement and prosecution agencies, community-based organizations, and civil rights groups to address hate crimes through outreach, investigations, prosecutions, community awareness and preparedness, reporting, hotlines, and victim services. This figure includes nearly $30 million in grants announced last month.
- DOJ continues to support law enforcement agencies’ transition to the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS). Beginning in January 2021, NIBRS became the national standard for law enforcement crime data reporting in the United States and the transition to NIBRS represented a significant improvement in how reported crime is measured and estimated by the federal government. Since 2015, DOJ’s Bureau of Justice Assistance and the FBI have provided more than $150 million to law enforcement agencies and state Uniform Crime Programs to support their transitions to NIBRS.
- The DOJ Civil Rights Division continues to prosecute Islamophobic and other hate crimes, including hate crimes directed at students on campus. Last week, a New Jersey man pleaded guilty to a federal hate crime for breaking into the Center for Islamic Life at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, during the Eid-al-Fitr holiday and damaging and destroying religious artifacts because of the Islamic faith of those associated with the facility.
- DOJ’s United Against Hate initiative, led by all 94 United States Attorneys’ Offices (USAOs), combats unlawful acts of hate by teaching community members how to identify, report, and help prevent hate crimes and by building trust between law enforcement and communities. To date, at least 45 USAOs have engaged directly with Muslim communities.
- Attorney General Garand directed the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and all 94 USAOs across the country to work with local law enforcement and community leaders to protect communities from hate-fueled violence in the last year and recently reaffirmed DOJ’s commitment to combat the disturbing rise in the volume and frequency of threats against Muslim, Arab, and Palestinian as well as Jewish communities here in the United States. DOJ created a webpage aimed at raising awareness of resources for addressing these threats, and it will continue to publicize its efforts.
- During the September 2024 Protecting Places of Worship Week of Action, the DHS Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships and White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships hosted workshops to encourage partnerships to take collective action against hate-based violence, including Islamophobic violence and hate crimes against Arabs. This emphasis included promotion of a guide to applying for Nonprofit Security Grant Program funding.
- DHS has announced that it will distribute $210 million in Nonprofit Security Grant Program funds as the second tranche of additional funding the Biden-Harris Administration secured to protect faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations against targeted attacks. This funding opportunity will be made available in late October.
Tackling Discrimination and Bias
- The U.S. Office of Personnel Management has published the Workplace Rights Federal Toolkit, a compilation of resources for employees of the federal government regarding their workplace rights, including information about their rights to nondiscrimination and religious accommodation.
- The Department of Labor sent a letter to American Job Centers and other public workforce entities reminding them about their legal obligations to enforce prohibitions on discrimination based on actual or perceived religion, shared ancestry, or ethnic characteristics — including Islamophobia, Antisemitism, and related forms of discrimination – in federally funded activities and programs. The letter also included a fact sheet with examples of these forms of discrimination in the workforce development system.
- DOJ issued a fact sheet titled Confronting Discrimination Based on Religion in Schools: A Resource for Students and Families, which discusses scenarios involving students’ rights to pray and wear religious attire in schools.
- ED’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued a Fact Sheet on Harassment based on Race, Color, or National Origin on School Campuses, reminding schools of their federal civil rights obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) to take prompt and effective action to respond to harassment that creates a hostile environment. ED OCR continues to investigate and resolve claims of shared ancestry discrimination under Title VI at schools. For example, ED OCR recently entered into a resolution agreement with the Ann Arbor Public Schools in Michigan to address concerns about a hostile environment for students based on shared Muslim/Arab Palestinian ancestry.
- The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued a letter to the over 200 federally-funded Fair Housing Initiatives Programs and Fair Housing Assistance Programs on how to identify and counter Islamophobia, Antisemitism, and related forms of bias and discrimination in housing. Also, HUD created a webpage on protections against housing discrimination on the basis of religion, shared ancestry, or ethnic characteristics, which include the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
- The Department of Transportation (DOT) provided a number of resources related to travelers’ rights and opportunities to file a complaint when there may be an instance of discrimination by airlines or recipients of federal funding, including discrimination on the basis of religion or national origin. The Passengers’ Right to Fly Free from Discrimination is a guide designed to explain DOT’s role in protecting aviation passengers from unlawful discrimination. Similarly, the Guidance for Airline Personnel on Non-discrimination in Air Travel assists airline personnel in understanding their legal obligations not to discriminate against passengers. For example, this guidance notes that it is impermissible to remove a passenger from a flight simply because he is holding a book that appears to be a Quran.
- DOJ sent a letter to state, county, and municipal officials reminding them of the obligation of public officials to comply with the land use provisions of the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) and to inform them about documents issued by DOJ that may be of assistance to them in applying this federal civil rights law. RLUIPA is a federal law that protects people and religious institutions from discriminatory and overly burdensome land use regulations. For example, DOJ recently filed a complaint and consent decree in United States v. Hendricks County, settling allegations that Hendricks County violated RLUIPA and the Fair Housing Act by twice unlawfully denying zoning approval to an Islamic educational organization that sought to develop a religious seminary, school, and housing on land in Hendricks County.
- Some Americans, including many Muslims and Arabs, have documented how financial institutions use de-risking, a practice to terminate or restrict business relationships indiscriminately with broad categories of clients rather than analyzing and managing the risks of clients in a targeted manner. To help address de-risking, the U.S. Treasury Department has published its National De-Risking Strategy. The Treasury Department also has issued a proposed rule to improve the effectiveness of how banks manage potential risks associated with anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism in a risk-based manner, while avoiding one-size-fits-all approaches that can lead to financial institutions declining to provide financial services to entire categories of customers.
Addressing Issues Related to Travel
- On January 20, 2021, President Biden rescinded the previous administration’s discriminatory Muslim Ban, which included many Arab countries and was inconsistent with our nation’s foundation of religious freedom for all. At President Biden’s direction, the U.S. Department of State conducted a review of visa applications and has taken various corrective actions to process applications that were impacted by the prior travel ban, including reconsidering previously denied applications and implementing a one-time fee credit for certain applicants.
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MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministries/ Departments of Government of India Participate in the Special Campaign 4.0 for Swachhata and Reducing Pendency

Source: Government of India

Ministries/ Departments of Government of India Participate in the Special Campaign 4.0 for Swachhata and Reducing Pendency

Massive Participation from across the Country, with cleanliness campaigns made in 1.32 lakh offices spaces (42%) out of 3.16 lakh target in first ten days

26.41 lakh Square Feet of Space Freed for Productive Use; Rs. 21.62 crore Revenue Earned through Scrap Disposal and 1.34 Lakh Public Grievances Redressed

Large Scale Awareness Generation and Campaign Advocacy Resorted through Electronic, Print and Social Mediawith 5002 Tweets, 10.2 Million Engagements and 129 PIB Statements, #Specialcampaign4 gained a lot of Traction on Social Media

Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 2:39PM by PIB Delhi

The Special Campaign 4.0 launched by the Government, with Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances as the nodal department, has gained significant momentum. The preparatory phase (16^th-30^thSeptember, 2024) for the Special Campaign 4.0 completed on 30^thSeptember, 2024 and Implementation Phase started from 2^ndOctober, 2024.

The progress of the campaign was reviewed by Secretary DARPG, in the fifth Meeting of Nodal Officers of Special Campaign 4.0 for Swachhata and Disposal of Pending Matters held on 11^thOctober, 2024. The meeting was attended by 150 senior officers, from 84 Ministries/Departments. All Ministries/Departments are participating in the Special Campaign 4.0. Massive participation from across the country observed with cleanliness campaigns made in 1.32 lakh offices spaces (42%) out of 3.16 lakh target in only ten days. 26.41 lakh square feet of space has been freed for productive use; Rs. 21.62 crore revenue has been earned through scrap disposal and 1.34 lakh public grievances have been redressed.

In the first ten days of Special Campaign 4.0 from 2^nd-11^th October, 2024, the following progress has been achieved:

S.No.	Parameter	Target in SC 4.0	Achievement upto 11^th Oct 2024	% Achupto 11^th Oct 2024
	Cleanliness Campaigns	3,16,099	1,32,392	41.9
	Reference from MPs	4,103	762	18.6
	Parliamentary Assurances	1,158	59	5.1
	IMC References	137	44	32.1
	State-Government References	712	218	30.6
	Public Grievances	5,18,313	1,34,072	25.9
	Pubic Grievance Appeals	14,733	3,821	25.9
	PMO References	904	267	29.5
	Easing of Rules/Processes	648	98	15.1
	Physical Files due for Review	32,37,605	11,14,291	34.4
	e-Files put up for Review	4,17,943	1,24,437	29.8
	Space freed (Lakh sq ft)	26.41
	Revenue earned (Rs. Crore)	21.62

The Special Campaign 4.0 has gained significant traction in social media with 5,002 tweets by Ministries/Departments on #SpecialCampaign4.0, 314 infographics and issue of 129 PIB statements.

During the review meeting, Department of School Education and Literacy delivered an insightful presentation on the “Vidyanjali” App, which aims to enhance educational quality and foster greater interactivity in classrooms to facilitate donations of computer systems etc. under Special campaign 4.0 by Ministries/ Departments.

Some of the best practices that emerged upto 11^th October, 2024 are as follows:

Curative preservation of Manuscript “Ramayana”, Asiatic Society, Kolkata, Ministry of Mines
Wall beautification at Shastri Bhawan, Legislative Department
Scrap cleared from Recreation room, National Bal Bhawan, New Delhi, Ministry of Education
Waste room converted into DMF Gallery, Shastri Bhawan, Ministry of Mines
Art sculpture made out of waste aluminium, JNARDCC, Nagpur, Ministry of Mines
Scrap cleared from old cooling towers after auctioning through MSTC at Pune Airport, AAI, Ministry of Civil Aviation
Postman app for timely delivery of services, e-office adoption, use of technology for Digital Life Certificate, Department of Posts

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NKR/DK/AG

(Release ID: 2064637) Visitor Counter : 53

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Provides $860 Million for Hurricane Helene and Milton Survivors and Communities
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Biden-Harris Administration Provides $860 Million for Hurricane Helene and Milton Survivors and Communities

Biden-Harris Administration Provides $860 Million for Hurricane Helene and Milton Survivors and Communities
WASHINGTON — Helene and Milton recovery efforts continue in North Carolina and the Southeast. Over 8,500 federal personnel are deployed, which includes over 4,200 FEMA personnel who remain on the ground, working side-by-side with state and local officials, to help survivors get what they need to begin their recovery.

For those affected by Hurricane Helene, as of today, FEMA has approved over $860 million, which includes $507 million in assistance for individuals and communities affected and over $351.5 million for debris removal and activities to save lives, protect public health and safety and prevent damage to public and private property.

Survivors can jumpstart their recovery by applying for FEMA assistance. Applying online at disasterassistance.gov is the fastest way to begin the application process. As survivors go through the application process they can access Serious Needs Assistance for essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies, medication and other emergency supplies.

Hurricane Milton Recovery Updates

Power restoration efforts have significantly improved across the region following Hurricane Milton. Crews have continued to work around the clock and have restored power for nearly 3 million residents. FEMA is currently working with state and local officials on debris removal plans for areas affected by the storms. Residents should pay attention to local guidance related to debris removal in their area.

Over 30 shelters are currently housing over 2,950 people impacted by Milton, a significant decrease from nearly 13,000 from last week. FEMA has 7.6 million meals and 4.6 million liters of water available to support survivors of Hurricane Milton, ensuring critical supplies are ready for immediate distribution.

Hurricane Helene Recovery Updates

Hurricane Helene recovery efforts continue, with federal responders working throughout the region to provide immediate and long-term support. FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are also open across the region to provide support. To date, FEMA has delivered over 12.6 million meals and more than 12.8 million liters of water to the region.

Disaster survivors in certain areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in the designated areas should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Helene.

Apply for FEMA assistance in the following ways:
- Online by visiting disasterassistance.gov.
- Downloading and applying on the FEMA App.
- Calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.
- Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center
- Applying through a Disaster Survivor Assistance member
Support for North Carolina

FEMA has approved more than $96 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 75,000 households.

More than 2,500 families who cannot return home are staying in safe and clean lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. Under the program, residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. FEMA will notify applicants of their eligibility for this assistance through an automated phone call, text message and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance. Shelter numbers continue to decline, with 13 shelters housing just over 560 occupants.

Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations remain in areas of western North Carolina. Voluntary organizations are supporting feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft.
- Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.
- Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.
There are four Disaster Recovery Centers now open in Asheville, Lenoir, Marion and Sylva where survivors can speak directly with FEMA and state personnel for assistance with their recovery. To find the nearest center, visit FEMA.gov/DRC.

Support for Florida

As Helene recovery efforts continue in Florida, FEMA has approved more than $177.6 million for over 56,900 households. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities affected by Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors are visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.

There are 122 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods and there are ten Disaster Recovery Centers supporting survivors from Debby and Helene where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.

Support for South Carolina

As recovery efforts continue in South Carolina, FEMA has approved over $119 million for more than 133,900 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties, continuing to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are 81 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods, and three Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Greenville, Barnwell and Batesburg where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133.

Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information.

Support for Georgia

FEMA has approved over $103 million for more than 106,300 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are 139 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods, and three Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Valdosta, Douglas and Augusta where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene.

Support for Virginia

To date, FEMA has approved over $4.2 million for over 1,330 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties, helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are about 39 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods, and three Disaster Recovery Centers open in Damascus, Independence and Tazewell where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at: Recover – Hurricane Helene | VDEM (vaemergency.gov).

Support for Tennessee

FEMA has approved more than $10.7 million for disaster assistance for over 2,200 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties, helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are more than 42 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power. Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit TEMA’s website.

Voluntary Organizations

Voluntary organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has hundreds of trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. Additionally, they are helping find loved ones through their helpline 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by the Red Cross Hurricane Helene Reunification page where people can enter pertinent information about the person they’re looking for. If someone is missing a child related to this disaster or any other incident, they need to call 9-1-1 and then 1-800-THE-LOST to receive assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

FEMA remains steadfast in its mission to support survivors as they begin their recovery from these historic storms. The agency will continue to work with federal, state, and local partners to ensure the safety and well-being of those impacted by Milton and Helene.
amy.ashbridge
Mon, 10/14/2024 – 22:45

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: G’day Australia 2024 kicks off in Perth

Source: Minister for Trade

Western Australia’s reputation as a key hub for international tourism continues to grow, with hundreds of international travel agents arriving in Perth for Tourism Australia’s mega-event G’Day Australia.

Hosted in partnership with the Western Australian Government through Tourism Western Australia, G’Day Australia will bring around 300 expert travel agents from across the world to WA.

G’Day Australia provides frontline travel sellers who have been trained by Tourism Australia – known as ‘Aussie Specialists’ – the chance to experience the country for themselves, giving them greater confidence to sell Australian holidays to international travellers.

Agents will visit destinations across WA including Perth, Broome and Margaret River, gaining firsthand experience, greater confidence and stronger ability to sell Australia to prospective travellers.

They will also undertake visits across the country, supported by other State and Territory Tourism Organisations.

It is estimated that as a result of attending G’day Australia the agents will sell an additional $30 million in holidays to Australia over the next 12 months.

Travel agents who took part in G’day Australia in Cairns last year said they intended to sell more of Australia as a result of the event, which is vital as we see our international visitor numbers return and set on a path of sustainable growth.

The event follows the prestigious World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit held in Perth last week, with more industry events in the pipeline for WA next year, including 2025 Virtuoso Australia & New Zealand Forum and Routes Asia 2025.

G’Day Australia concludes on Friday, 18 October 2024.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Tourism Don Farrell:

“G’day Australia plays a critical role in ensuring that Australia remains a top choice with international travellers – and what better destination for this year’s event than our country’s spectacular West.

“Travel agents who see for themselves what we have to offer are able to use those lived experiences to better sell Australia as the best destination for their customers next holiday.

“Having hundreds of Aussie Specialists selling trips to Australia in our key markets helps give us an important edge over other destinations around the world, which supports our world-class tourism industry, Australian jobs and our economy.”

Quotes attributable to WA Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism Rita Saffioti:

“Off the back of a huge week with the World Tourism and Travel Council Global Summit being hosted here in Perth, we’re backing it up with G’Day Australia, which presents another great opportunity to showcase Western Australia.

“Events like G’Day Australia are really important in giving hundreds of global travel agents and industry leaders firsthand experience of some of our best tourism assets here in WA, and ultimately, helping them to better promote and sell WA holiday packages to travellers.

“We’re confident that everyone who visits WA as part of G’Day Australia will be taken back by our incredible tourism offerings and natural landscapes, and feel inspired to share these experiences with their clients.

“Perth continues to go from strength to strength as a tourism, aviation and investment hub, and we’ll continue that momentum in particular as we get set to welcome non-stop services from China in November.”

MIL OSI News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: “Remember Why You’re Here”: Mother of 9/11 Victim Visits Morrison Center Memorial

Source: National Security Agency NSA

FORT MEADE, Md. – “It shows you how fragile life is,” mother of Flight 93’s youngest victim said with tear-filled eyes at the sight of her 20-year old daughter’s photo and purse on display at the 9/11 memorial in the lobby of the Morrison Center on NSA/CSS Washington’s East Campus.

Earlier this year, Deborah “Debby” Borza donated to NSA the purse that her daughter carried on 11 September 2001. She was recently invited to the Agency to view this memorial on what would have been her daughter, Deora Bodley’s, 43rd birthday.

Debby Borza weeps at the sight of NSA’s Flight 93 memorial in memory of her daughter.

Borza and her partner, Gregory Linden, began their visit at the National Cryptologic Museum with a guided tour from the Center for Cryptologic History Chief John Tokar and a retired NSA employee and museum docent.

After a first-hand look into the Agency’s history, Borza and Linden boarded a van to East Campus to see the 9/11 memorial.

“What a great honor to have you here,” Deputy Director Wendy Noble said as she greeted them both upon their arrival.

Noble shared with Borza how much this memorial means to NSA.

“The reason we have it in the front of the building is especially for new employees, to remember why you’re here,” she said.

The project manager of the 9/11 memorial, and other members of the Morrison Center construction team were also present for the visit.

“A lot of folks that come and work here were born after 9/11,” the project manager said, sharing how the memorial helps the workforce relate to this tragic event in history.

The co-facility manager and former Morrison Center construction manager, along with members of the Facility Management Team from East Campus, also got emotional and thanked Borza for her contribution.

Picture of Flight 93 victim Deora Bodley, and the purse she carried on 9/11 on display at the 9/11 memorial at NSA/CSS Washington’s Morrison Center.

The co-facility manager explained how Borza was instrumental in the Flight 93 memorial at NSA becoming a reality, and her visit brought it all together.

Borza was equally grateful for the time and hard work they put into the entire display, especially the piece honoring her daughter.

“To the gentlemen who built it, thank you,” she said. “Thank you for taking on that responsibility. This is amazing.”

The 9/11 memorial displays: an American flag from Shanksville, Pennsylvania; elevator tracks from the World Trade Center; limestone rubble and a partially melted laptop from the Pentagon; and Bodley’s purse, cleaned and preserved from the Flight 93 crash site.

A Day Etched Into Memory

On 11 September 2001, Borza’s daughter was entering her junior year as a French and child psychology major at Santa Clara University in California, and was returning to school after a visit with girlfriends on the East Coast. She had gone to the airport early that morning to accommodate her friend who had an early class. While Bodley was not scheduled to be on Flight 93 traveling from Newark International Airport to San Francisco, she was able to get a seat on standby.

Borza was at work when she got a tearful phone call from her daughter’s friend, saying that she had gotten on an earlier flight.

It was in that moment that Borza had an unsettling feeling, and went to a church across the street to pray. Borza recalled that she asked God, “Where is Deora?” and she heard a quiet voice respond, “She’s with me.”

Moments later, Borza got a call from the airline, and heard, “I’m sorry to inform you—” from the other line. Borza dropped the phone.

Debby Borza reads a quote at the 9/11 memorial.

Remembering and Honoring Her Daughter’s Legacy

Bodley dreamed of becoming a child psychologist, and was committed to community service, volunteering in high school, working with the America Reads program, and tutoring kids after school.

Since that phone call, Borza has dedicated her life to honoring her daughter and the other lives lost in Shanksville, and even relocated to Maryland to be closer to the crash site and to Washington D.C.

She has been a fixture in Congress and Shanksville since 2001 — working on memorial plans, committees, and legislation where she served on the board for Families of Flight 93 and the 9/11 National Memorial Trail.

“She’s the unofficial mayor of that place! Everybody knows her,” Tokar said as he accompanied Borza to the Flight 93 crash site.

Borza spent the day prior to the NSA visit at the Flight 93 memorial in Pennsylvania, watching the recent solar eclipse and commemorating her daughter’s birthday.

She was asked to speak to a school group that was scheduled to be at the Tower of Voices memorial that day to highlight history and take in the experience. There, Borza and the students made memories as they ate Oreos (her daughter’s favorite snack), and got to see a scientific wonder happen before their eyes.

“Being with those kids, I felt Deora closer than ever before,” Borza said.

The Tower of Voices, a 93-foot tall musical instrument holding 40 wind chimes, stands as a landmark feature near the entrance to the Flight 93 National Memorial, located in Somerset County, Pennsylvania.

NSA Deputy Director Wendy Noble with Debby Borza, mother of 9/11 victim, standing in front of the 9/11 memorial at NSA/CSS Washington’s East Campus.

The living memorial creates a set of forty tones (“voices”) to remember Bodley and the 39 others who died through their ongoing voices.

“Thank you for everything you’ve done,” said Ms. Noble, further recognizing Borza’s tireless work to help memorialize those who lost their lives 23 years ago.

Borza replied tearfully, “I did it for her.”

Before the afternoon concluded, Ms. Noble gave Borza her personal coin.

Borza recalls how the trip to the Agency to see the final piece of her daughter’s memorial was a fulfilling culmination to an emotional week, and before leaving Borza told the crowd, “Some people say ‘Never Forget,’ I like to say, ‘Remember.’ I know for sure, Deora’s very happy.”

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: History Today, June 6: The role of signals intelligence or ‘ULTRA’ on D-Day

Source: National Security Agency NSA

The term D-Day was a shorthand expression first used in World War I to denote the date an operation was to be launched. In the earlier war, officers also used H-HOUR and M-MINUTE, but these were seldom used in World War II. Because of the scope of the 1944 operation and the momentous stakes, in common parlance, “D-Day” has come to refer primarily to the landings in Normandy.

The Germans had occupied France since 1940. When the Americans entered the war in December 1941, U.S. strategic thinking called for an immediate landing in France in conjunction with our British allies, followed by an advance to liberate the country and then press on to Berlin. Britain’s high command argued against this course of action, pointing out, correctly, that the Germans were well dug in, American forces lacked experience in combat against the powerful foe, and neither country had yet assembled the reserve of men and materiel such an effort required.

As a consequence, the Allies battled the Germans in North Africa, Sicily, and Italy – but by spring 1944, the time had come to land in France and carry the battle to the German homeland. Hundreds of thousands of American, British, and Canadian men readied to land on five beaches in Normandy, France, to face well-prepared German defensive positions.

The planning for this operation, codenamed OVERLORD, was complex, but the strategic planning staff had an important asset — SIGINT. This was ULTRA, the product of cryptanalysis of high-grade enemy cryptosystems such as the now-famous ENIGMA machine. Crucial information also was derived from decrypts of reports written by the Japanese ambassador to Germany, who had toured the beachfronts of France in the autumn of 1943.
Those who study intelligence know that ULTRA gave planners access to copious amounts of information about the German weaponry emplaced along the beaches, the order of battle of the defensive units, and the standing orders given to the defenders.

Less well known but no less important was the information on German defensive mines in the English Channel. This was a vital factor, since Britain and the United States were transporting their combat units across the channel in hundreds of ships.

ULTRA provided a great deal of data on German mine laying. Some of it came from communications of the boats actually creating the minefield, some of it came from instructions to German ships about cleared areas for their sailing. The information included types of mines used, as well as boundaries for closed and open channels.

This information allowed the Allies to select mine-free routes for the ships carrying the landing parties and identify areas where minesweeping actions would be a priority.

The official historian of British COMINT in World War II wrote, “Largely with the assistance of SIGINT, though not without much tedious analysis of it . . ., the programme was reconstructed in considerable detail — a fact which proved to be of considerable importance for the success of the landings.”

In addition to ULTRA, U.S. ground forces had tactical COMINT personnel who accompanied deployed troops and provided intelligence from low-level German or Japanese communications.

The U.S. Navy also had tactical COMINT teams aboard ships in the Mediterranean and European Theaters of War, called the Y Service, a term borrowed from British usage. One of the primary missions of these teams was to provide warning of enemy air attacks and to jam German radio-controlled bombs.

Initially, the U.S. Navy had to borrow intercept operators from the U.S. Army or the Royal Navy. In early 1944, the commander of U.S. naval forces in Northwest African waters asked the Chief of Naval Operations to send twenty-four men for training in Y Service operations. He noted that the candidates should be of good intelligence, without family ties in Axis countries, wholly trustworthy, and be thoroughly fluent in idiomatic German; if any had a knowledge of German shorthand, that would be especially desirable.

In March two officers and ten enlisted men were dispatched from the U.S. to Europe for Y Service training, which was to be provided by the British admiralty.

As Allied forces prepared for Operation NEPTUNE, the naval phase of the Normandy landings, seven naval Y teams were deployed. Three of the teams had only British personnel; the other teams had mixed U.S. and UK personnel. It was felt that training alone was insufficient for success; the U.S. had to overcome lack of experience by integration of personnel with its ally.

During the D-Day landings and afterward, the Y teams undertook twenty-four-hour coverage. This began on June 5 and continued through June 18. As one later report put it, “. . . [I]n the case of the Normandy Operation, Y service proved to be of little assistance because of the general lack of enemy aircraft and naval surface craft in the face of overwhelming Allied surface and air power.”

The Y Service teams were disbanded in January 1945. By this time, the German naval and air forces were no longer a threat to U.S. and British movement of troops and support for them from the British Isles to France.

Today is the 80th anniversary of D-Day, still the largest amphibious attack conducted in the face of an armed enemy. The sacrifice in life by British, Canadian, and American troops was heavy on this day in 1944, but the successful landings truly marked the beginning of the end for Adolph Hitler and Nazism.

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: New NSA Display at BWI Honors SIGINT Support to Warfighters

Source: National Security Agency NSA

The early 1950s saw the dedication of two new organizations headquartered less than 10 miles apart: NSA and the Friendship International Airport — now Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). Nearly eight decades later, the partnership between these organizations is expanding in a new way.

Earlier this week, Agency leaders traveled to BWI for a first look at a newly installed wall display illustrating NSA’s unique support to the Armed Forces through declassified archival imagery. This first-of-its-kind exhibit highlights the SIGINT work of the Agency and its predecessors during WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

“My grandfather served in WWII on the Red Ball Express, I had an uncle who served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, and as a combat contingency deployer of 14 times throughout my 27 years in the military, it’s always good to see representation on the wall,” CMSgt Kenneth Bruce, Command Senior Enlisted Leader of USCYBERCOM and Senior Enlisted Advisor of NSA/CSS, said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Located in BWI’s Honor Flights corridor, the display welcomes and honors active-duty military and veterans arriving at the airport. According to Bruce, it’s important to increase awareness of NSA’s history as a combat support agency providing SIGINT and cybersecurity insights to military operations around the world.

“We’re very appreciative of what this represents and what NSA has represented to our Nation,” Chief Bruce said on behalf of the nearly 17,000 members of the Central Security Service, who ensure the warfighter is integrated into what NSA does on a daily basis. “As these honor flights come in to BWI and thousands of service members walk through these hallways, they’ll always have a reminder of what they do and why they do it.”

A team representing organizations across the Engagement & Policy Directorate worked for five years collaborating to ensure the design, content, and delivery was as impactful as possible in demonstrating NSA’s long-standing support to the U.S. Military, according to Stephanie Bartolowits, chief of Information Management and the project originator. The display supports the Director of National Intelligence’s Transparency Initiative and fulfills NSA’s responsibility to declassify and disseminate materials to the public.

“We try to do a transparency project every year as an Agency to be forward-leaning, to share with the public what we do,” Bartolowits said. “We’re hoping some of these service members will be able to walk by here, recognize themselves and see these things, and know that we really appreciate them.”

This exhibit opened less than two years after NSA launched its first-ever recruitment display at the airport, which is home to the Nation’s largest USO lounge and sees more military members traveling through than any other airport, according to Bartolowits.

Maryland Aviation Administration CEO Ricky Smith said the partnership between BWI and NSA represents a “rich family” of Maryland-based institutions that serve the American people. “To have you present at this airport and to be able to showcase the value you bring to the community is a pleasure,” he said.

According to Engagement & Policy Director Sheila Thomas, the NSA-BWI partnership is natural.

“Support to military is in our core, our ethos. I can’t tell you how much it means to see this in a public arena,” she said. “This will continue on well past us, and that’s really something that’s remarkable, something we can be so proud of.”

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Doing It Until We Got It Right: A Short History of the Pearl Harbor Investigations

Source: National Security Agency NSA

On December 7, 1941, Japanese naval aircraft swept in on an unsuspecting US Pacific Fleet and Army in the Hawaiian Islands and destroyed many American ships and aircraft. In a little over two hours, 18 warships—including eight battleships—and over 160 aircraft were knocked out of action. With Japan’s eastern flank secured, its forces would rampage through the rest of the Pacific virtually unopposed.

Within days of the disaster, calls resounded from the public, press, and the government itself for an investigation into how and why such an event could occur. To many, it was not just the magnitude of the defeat, but the extraordinary unpreparedness of U.S. forces in Hawaii: Someone had to pay.

However, fixing responsibility for the debacle at Pearl Harbor was complicated by the revelations about the MAGIC decrypts. MAGIC was the cover name assigned to the intelligence garnered from the decryptions and translations of Japanese diplomatic messages.

From September 1940 until the attack on Pearl Harbor, American cryptologists had read the most sensitive Japanese diplomatic messages and had kept President Franklin Roosevelt informed of every Japanese diplomatic and political policy turn. But MAGIC didn’t tell Roosevelt and other government leaders what the Japanese military was planning — that information was in Japanese Navy communications, and those ciphers and codes had largely resisted the efforts of American cryptologists to break them. Any investigation of the Pearl Harbor disaster would be as much a revelation of what we didn’t know as of what we did know.

The issue of culpability would not be settled in one investigation, and for many people it was never really settled at all. Ultimately, eight hearings would be held during World War II and after, culminating in a joint congressional investigation beginning on November 15, 1945. What follows is a brief summary of each.

The Roberts Commission, December 18, 1941-December 23, 1942: This commission, set by presidential executive order, was charged to determine the facts of the Japanese attack and establish if any dereliction of duty had occurred. MAGIC was discussed, but who received it and the details of the reports were not covered. Not surprisingly, the hearings were hostile to the area commanders, General Walter Short, USA, and Admiral Husband Kimmel, USN. The major political and military figures in Washington were exonerated.

The Hart Inquiry, February 15, 1944-June 15, 1944: The Navy Department ordered Admiral Thomas Hart, former commander of the Asiatic Fleet, to conduct a one-man inquiry on Pearl Harbor so that important testimony would not be lost by hazard of war.

The Army Pearl Harbor Board, July 20, 1944-October 20, 1944: In response to an act of Congress on July 13, 1944, the Army’s adjutant general convened hearings which took testimony from 151 witnesses. MAGIC evidence was taken only during the last week of the hearings. Surprisingly, and perhaps because radio intercept information was downplayed, the board censured Generals George Marshall and Leonard Gerow (War Plans Division) for not fully advising General Short of the situation vis-a-vis Japan.

The Naval Court of Inquiry, July 24, 1944-October 19, 1944: A court of inquiry was convened in response to the same congressional act of July 13, 1944. The hearings made full use of MAGIC, though the testimony on it was classified and kept from the public. The findings of the inquiry completely exonerated Admiral Kimmel. Instead, Admiral Harold Stark, chief of naval operations at the time of Pearl Harbor, was blamed for failing to adequately advise Kimmel of the critical situation prior to the attack.

The Clausen Investigation, November 23, 1944-September 12, 1945: By personal direction of the secretary of war, a one-man inquiry conducted by Major Henry Clausen was detailed to obtain testimony to supplement the Army Board’s completed investigation.

The Hewitt Inquiry, May 14, 1945-July 11, 1945: Similar to the Clausen investigation, the Navy secretary ordered Admiral Kent Hewitt to continue the naval inquiry.

The Clarke Investigation, September 14-16, 1944 and July 13, 1945-August 4, 1945: The secretary of war ordered Colonel Carter Clarke, head of the Military Intelligence Division, which, in turn, oversaw the army’s COMINT efforts, to investigate the handling of communications by the military intelligence division prior to Pearl Harbor.

On November 15, 1945, the Joint Congressional Committee Investigation into the Pearl Harbor disaster held its first session. Established by a Joint Congressional Resolution, this investigation promised to be the most thorough possible. The Truman administration released all of the relevant classified documents, including the MAGIC translations. All of the participants that were still alive, with the exception of the seriously ill Secretary of War Stimson, were examined.

In 1946, the committee’s findings were released in 40 volumes. A single volume report contained 12 findings that apportioned the blame among all the principals: Hawaiian area commanders as well as the War and Navy Departments. A minority report also censured President Roosevelt but concluded, like the majority findings, that Secretary Stimson, Secretary Knox, Generals Marshall and Gerow, and Admiral Stark, as well as General Short and Admiral Kimmel, were culpable for the disaster.

The hope that the investigations would finally determine who was responsible was never fulfilled.

Although many figures in Washington were blamed, Kimmel and Short would bear the onus for the disaster. But the fifty years following the investigations would see a stream of “revisionist” histories and rationalizations for the major figures, such as Admiral Kimmel. Conspiracies to suppress intelligence by Churchill, Roosevelt, and others would be “exposed,” and historians would “discover” new intelligence that existed which would have saved Pearl Harbor.

However, the phoenix-like nature of the Pearl Harbor controversy proved only what one of Admiral Kimmel’s lawyers wrote to him in 1953: “Pearl Harbor never dies, and no living person has seen the end of it.”

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Goldman Sachs raises China economic growth forecasts

Source: China State Council Information Office

A visitor learns about a driverless aircraft at the Smart Mobility Zone during the third Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Goldman Sachs on Sunday lifted its forecasts on China’s economic growth for 2024 and 2025 on the grounds of the country’s recent pro-growth measures.

China’s gross domestic products (GDP) would expand by 4.9 percent in 2024, up from an earlier forecast of 4.7 percent, according to a report by the investment bank.

Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs forecasted that the Chinese economy would grow by 4.7 percent next year, up from the previous forecast of 4.3 percent.

“The latest round of China stimulus clearly indicates that policymakers have made a turn on cyclical policy management and increased their focus on the economy,” said economists with Goldman Sachs.

China posted 5.2 percent of GDP growth in 2023 and set a target of economic growth at around 5 percent for 2024.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Incidents on Ryanair planes – concerns for passenger safety – E-001973/2024
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001973/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Flavio Tosi (PPE), Salvatore De Meo (PPE), Giusi Princi (PPE), Massimiliano Salini (PPE), Caterina Chinnici (PPE), Letizia Moratti (PPE), Marco Falcone (PPE)

Over the past week, Ryanair aircraft have been at the centre of two incidents: one in Brindisi and the other in Bergamo (Italy). In Brindisi, 184 passengers plus the cabin crew were evacuated and the airport was closed after an engine caught fire. Bergamo airport was shut for a few hours too, following a tyre blowout on a plane coming into land.

Fortunately no one was injured in either case, but the two are only the latest in a series of episodes and technical issues to hit the Irish airline over the past year. Such incidents not only carry implications for the safety of passengers, crew and security staff, but instantly cause significant disruption to air traffic and operations at the airports involved.

Given the alarming frequency of such failures, can the Commission say:

1.What action will the European Union Aviation Safety Agency take to ensure that the maintenance plans for Ryanair’s aircraft are in order?

2.For the sake of passenger safety, how will it make sure that the only aircraft used is that which is authorised and fully fit to fly?

Submitted: 7.10.2024
Last updated: 15 October 2024
MIL OSI Europe News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RAF 60 Second Update09 Oct 2024
Source: United Kingdom – Royal Air Force

We’re back with our latest 60 Second Update, from 607 (County of Durham) Squadron, who received a new Standard alongside three other Royal Auxiliary Air Force Squadrons.

In this episode:
- Exercise Cobra Warrior, the RAF’s largest air exercise, sees 80 aircraft from six nations training together at RAF Waddington.
- 617 Squadron Lightning jets embark on HMS Prince of Wales with the Royal Navy 809 Naval Air Squadron on Exercise Strike Warrior.
- 501 (County of Gloucester), 504 (City of Nottingham), 603 (City of Edinburgh) and 607 (County of Durham) Squadrons receive their new Standards in a special ceremony at the Tower of London.
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Thanks for watching and see you next time!
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly 2024 in New Delhi

Source: Government of India (2)

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly 2024 in New Delhi

PM inaugurates 8th edition of India Mobile Congress

In India, we have made telecom not just a medium of connectivity, but also a medium of equity and opportunity: PM

We identified four pillars of Digital India and started working on all four pillars simultaneously and we got results: PM

We are working towards giving the world a complete Made in India phone, from chip to finished product: PM

The length of optical fiber that India has laid in just 10 years is eight times the distance between the Earth and the Moon: PM

India democratized digital technology: PM

Today India has such a digital bouquet which can take welfare schemes to new heights in the world: PM

India is working towards the goal of making technology sector inclusive, empowering women through technology platforms: PM

The time has come for global institutions to accept importance of Global framework for digital technology, global guidelines for global governance: PM

We have to ensure that our future is both technically strong and ethically sound, Our future should have innovation as well as inclusion: PM

Posted On: 15 OCT 2024 1:07PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) 2024 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi today. Shri Modi also inaugurated the 8th edition of India Mobile Congress during the programme. He took a walkthrough of the exhibition showcased on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister welcomed the Union Minister for Communication Shri Jyotiradiya Scindia, Minister of State for Communication Shri Chandrasekhar Pemmasani, Secretary General of ITU Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Ministers & dignitaries of various foreign countries, industry leaders, telecom experts, youths from the Startup world and ladies and gentlemen to the WTSA and India Mobile Congress (IMC). Welcoming the dignitaries of ITU, Shri Modi thanked and appreciated them for choosing India as the destination for the first WTSA meeting. “India is one among the most happening countries when it comes to telecom and its related technologies”, exclaimed Shri Modi. Listing the achievements of India, Shri Modi said that India had a mobile phone user base of 120 crores or 1200 million, 95 crore or 950 million internet users and digital transactions of more than 40% of the entire world in real-time. He further added that India had showcased how digital connectivity had become an effective tool for the last mile delivery. He congratulated everyone for choosing India as the destination for discussing the global telecommunication standard and discussion on the future for telecom as a global good.

Highlighting the significance of the combined organization of WTSA and India Mobile Congress, the Prime Minister said that WTSA’s objective is to work on global standards while the role of India Mobile Congress is associated with services. He said that today’s event brings global standards and services on a single platform. Emphasizing India’s focus on quality service and standards, the Prime Minister said that WTSA’s experience would provide new energy to India.

The Prime Minister underlined that WTSA empowers the world via consensus and while India Mobile Congress strengthens the world through connectivity. Therefore, Shri Modi said, consensus and connectivity are conjoined in this event. He stressed the need for the combination in today’s world which is marred by conflict and said that India has been living through the immortal message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. He mentioned the G20 Summit presided by India and spoke about relaying the message of ‘One Earth One Family One Future’. The Prime Minister emphasized that India is engaged in bringing the world out of conflict and connecting it. “Be it the ancient silk route or today’s technology route, India’s only mission is to connect the world and open new doors of progress”, the Prime Minister remarked. In such a situation, said the Prime Minister, this partnership of WTSA and IMC is a great message where local and global combine to bring the benefits not to just one country but the entire world.

“India’s mobile and telecom journey in the 21st century is a subject of study for the whole world”, exclaimed Shri Modi. He added that while mobile and telecom were seen as a facility across the world, however, telecom was not just a medium of connectivity, but a medium of equity and opportunity in India. The Prime Minister remarked that telecom as a medium was helping in bridging the gap between villages and cities, rich and poor today. Reminiscing his presentation, a decade ago, on vision of Digital India, Shri Modi remarked that he had stated that India had to move forward with a holistic approach as against a piece-meal approach. Shri Modi listed out the four pillars of Digital India – Low-priced devices, extensive reach of digital connectivity to every nook and corner of the country, easily accessible data and goal of ‘Digital First’, which were identified and worked upon simultaneously, leading to good results.

The Prime Minister highlighted India’s transformative achievements in connectivity and telecom reforms and emphasized how the country has built a robust network of thousands of mobile towers across remote tribal, hilly, and border areas, ensuring connectivity for every household. He said that the government has created a strong network of mobile towers across the country. The Prime Minister underscored the remarkable advancements in infrastructure, including the rapid installation of Wi-Fi facilities at public places like railway stations and the connection of islands like Andaman-Nicobar and Lakshadweep through undersea cables. “In just 10 years, India has laid optical fiber which is eight times the distance between Earth and the Moon”, he added. Shri Modi also pointed out India’s rapid adoption of 5G technology and said that 5G technology was launched two years ago and today nearly every district is connected, making India the world’s second-largest 5G market. He further mentioned that India is already progressing towards 6G technology, ensuring a future-ready infrastructure.

Discussing telecom sector reforms, the Prime Minister noted India’s efforts in lowering data costs. He said that the cost of internet data in India is now as low as 12 cents per GB compared to many countries in the world where one GB of data is 10 to 20 times more expensive. “Today, every Indian consumes about 30 GB of data on an average every month”, he said.

Shri Modi noted that all such efforts have been taken to a new scale by the fourth pillar i.e. the spirit of digital first. He underlined that India democratized digital technology and created digital platforms where innovations on these platforms created millions of new opportunities. Shri Modi highlighted the transformative power of the JAM Trinity—Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile—saying it has laid the foundation for countless innovations. He mentioned Unified Payments Interface (UPI) which has provided new opportunities for many companies and also spoke about ONDC which will revolutionize digital commerce. The Prime Minister pointed out the role of digital platforms during the COVID-19 pandemic ensuring seamless processes such as financial transfers to those in need, real-time communication of guidelines, vaccination drive and handing out digital vaccine certificates. Reflecting on India’s success, the Prime Minister expressed the nation’s willingness to share its digital public infrastructure experience globally. The Prime Minister said India’s digital bouquet can elevate welfare schemes worldwide highlighting India’s emphasis on Digital Public Infrastructure during G20 Presidency. He underlined that the nation is happy to share its DPI knowledge with all countries.

Emphasizing the importance of Network of women initiative during the WTSA, Shri Modi highlighted that India was working very seriously on women led development. He added that the commitment was taken forward during India’s presidency of G-20. The Prime Minister underlined that India was working towards the goal of making the technology sector inclusive by empowering the women through technology platforms. He highlighted the crucial role of women scientists in India’s Space missions, rising number of women co-founders in India’s start-ups. The Prime minister also noted that there was a 40 percent share of women students in India’s STEM education and India was creating umpteen opportunities for women in technology leadership. Shri Modi also highlighted the Namo Drone Didi program of the Government, to promote drone revolution in agriculture, was being led by women from villages in India. He added that India also started the Bank Sakhi program to take digital banking and digital payments to every home which had led to digital awareness. Highlighting the critical role of Asha and Anganwadi workers in India’s primary healthcare, maternity and child care, Shri Modi remarked that today these workers were tracking all the work through tabs and apps. He added that India was also running the Mahila E-Haat program, an online marketing platform for women entrepreneurs. He further added that it was unimaginable that today women of India in every village were working on such technology. Shri Modi expressed hope that in the times to come, India will expand its scope further where every daughter of India would be a tech leader.

The Prime Minister reiterated the importance of establishing a global framework for digital technology. He emphasized that this topic was raised by India during its G-20 Presidency and urged global institutions to recognize its significance for global governance. “The time has come for global institutions to accept the importance of global governance”, PM Modi stated. Stressing the need to create a ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ for technology on the global level, the Prime Minister highlighted the borderless nature of digital tools and applications and urged for international collaboration in combating cyber threats and collective action by global institutions. He drew parallels with the aviation sector which already has well-established frameworks. PM Modi called upon the WTSA to take a proactive role in creating a secure digital ecosystem and safe channel for telecommunication. “In an interconnected world, security cannot be an afterthought. India’s Data Protection Act and National Cyber Security Strategy reflect our commitment to building a safe digital environment”, he noted. The Prime Minister urged the members of the assembly to create standards that are inclusive, secure, and adaptable to future challenges, including ethical AI and data privacy standards that respect the diversity of nations.

The Prime Minister emphasized the need for a human-centric dimension to the ongoing technological revolution, calling for responsible and sustainable innovation. He said that the standards set today will determine the direction of the future, stressing that principles of security, dignity and equity should be at the center of our discussions. He said our goal should be that no country, no region and no community is left behind in this digital transformation and underscored the need for innovation balanced with inclusion. He urged to ensure that the future is technically strong as well as ethically sound with innovation as well as inclusion. Concluding the address, the Prime Minister conveyed his best wishes for the success of WTSA and also extended his support.

Union Minister for Communication, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia and Union Minister of State for Communication, Shri Chandrasekhar Pemmasani were present on the occasion along with various industry leaders.

Background

World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly or WTSA is the governing conference for the standardization work of International Telecommunication Union, the United Nations Agency for Digital Technologies, organized every four years. It is for the first time that the ITU-WTSA will be hosted in India and the Asia-Pacific. It is a pivotal global event that will bring together more than 3,000 industry leaders, policy-makers and tech experts from over 190 countries, representing telecom, digital and ICT sectors.

WTSA 2024 will provide a platform for countries to discuss and decide the future of standards of next-generation critical technologies like 6G, AI, IoT, Big Data, cybersecurity, etc. Hosting this event in India will provide the country an opportunity to play a key role in shaping the global telecom agenda and to set the course for future technologies. Indian startups and research institutions are set to gain critical insights into developing Intellectual Property Rights and Standard Essential Patents.

India Mobile Congress will showcase India’s innovation ecosystem, where leading telecom companies and innovators will highlight advancements in Quantum technology and Circular Economy along with spotlight on 6G, 5G use-case showcase, cloud & edge computing, IoT, semiconductors, cybersecurity, green tech, satcom and electronics manufacturing.

India Mobile Congress, Asia’s largest digital technology forum, has become a well-known platform across the globe for showcasing innovative solutions, services and state-of-the-art use cases for industry, government, academics, startups and other key stakeholders in the technology and telecom ecosystem. The India Mobile Congress will showcase over 400 exhibitors, about 900 startups, and participation from over 120 countries. The event also aims to showcase more than 900 technology use case scenarios, host more than 100 sessions and discussion with over 600 global and Indian speakers.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Approves $441 Million to Helene Survivors, and $349 Million in Funding to Support Communities, As President Biden Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Florida Following Hurricane Milton
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Biden-Harris Administration Approves $441 Million to Helene Survivors, and $349 Million in Funding to Support Communities, As President Biden Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Florida Following Hurricane Milton

Biden-Harris Administration Approves $441 Million to Helene Survivors, and $349 Million in Funding to Support Communities, As President Biden Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Florida Following Hurricane Milton
WASHINGTON – FEMA remains fully committed to assisting survivors affected by Helene and Milton as response teams work tirelessly to address immediate needs. Yesterday, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell returned to North Carolina to oversee ongoing response and recovery efforts for Hurricane Helene. President Biden will visit Florida tomorrow to support communities impacted by Hurricane Milton.

In response to Hurricane Milton, President Biden approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Florida that allows FEMA to provide federal funding to 34 counties, in addition to the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida. This includes assistance to individuals and households, in addition to public assistance for emergency work.

Throughout the Southeast, FEMA personnel are on the ground, working closely with state officials to ensure survivors receive the support they need. As of today, FEMA has approved $441 million in assistance for individuals affected by Hurricane Helene and over $349 million in public assistance funding to help rebuild communities.

Hurricane Milton Recovery Update

While Hurricane Milton has passed, flooding is expected to continue throughout the weekend. People in Milton-affected areas should continue following safety guidance from local officials – stay clear of downed power lines and continue to practice power outage and generator safety.

Power Restoration: Power restoration efforts have significantly improved across the region following Hurricane Milton, with outages decreasing from a peak of 3.3 million to 1.6 million, as crews work around the clock to bring communities back online.

Debris: FEMA is currently working with state and local officials on debris removal plans for areas affected by the storms. Residents should pay attention to local guidance related to debris removal in their area.

Staffing: More than 600 FEMA staff are on the ground providing support to affected communities. FEMA mobilized search and rescue teams, disaster response units and vital resources across Florida. Urban Search and Rescue continue to support state search and rescue teams, the National Guard and local authorities with rescues. Federal teams supplemented the state’s critical operations, such as water rescues, Emergency Operations Center support, volunteer and donations management and fire/HAZMAT response.

Sheltering: Over 50 shelters are currently housing over 3,100 people impacted by Milton, a significant decrease from nearly 13,000 yesterday.

Commodities: FEMA has delivered more than 1.6 million meals and 400,000 liters of water to augment the state’s supplies. FEMA has an additional 5.3 million meals and 3.9 million liters of water available to support survivors of Hurricane Milton, ensuring critical supplies are ready for immediate distribution.

Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts

FEMA has approved $441 million in federal disaster assistance for Hurricane Helene survivors and over $349 million in public assistance funding to help communities rebuild.

Hurricane Helene recovery efforts continue, with federal responders working throughout the region to provide immediate and long-term support. FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open across the region to provide support.

The agency is actively working alongside state, local and tribal partners to assess damage and support those affected by Helene. Over 10,000 personnel from across the federal workforce, including FEMA staff, are deployed to affected communities. To date, FEMA has delivered over 12.6 million meals and more than 12.9 million liters of water to the region.

Disaster survivors in certain areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in the designated areas should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Helene.

There are three ways to apply for FEMA assistance:

Support for North Carolina

Financial Support: FEMA has approved more than $79 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 62,000 households.

Power and Cellular Restoration: More than 95% of originally reported power outages have been restored. Cellular restoration continues to improve, with more than 92% of cellular sites in service as of today.

Staffing: As response efforts continue in North Carolina, more than 1,200 FEMA staff are on the ground providing support to affected communities. Over 250 Urban Search and Rescue personnel remain in the field helping people. These teamshave rescued or supported over 3,200 survivors to date.

Sheltering: More than 1,800 families who cannot return home are staying in safe and clean lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. Under FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program, residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. FEMA will notify applicants of their eligibility for this assistance through an automated phone call, text message and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance. Shelter numbers continue to decline, with 15 shelters housing just over 500 occupants.

Commodities: Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations remain in areas of western North Carolina. Voluntary organizations are supporting feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft. Mobile feeding operations are helping survivors in heavily affected areas, including mass feeding sites in Buncombe and Watauga counties serving locations across the impacted areas.

Resources
- There are more than 300 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.
- There are three Disaster Recovery Centers now open, where survivors can speak directly with FEMA and state personnel for assistance with their recovery. To find the nearest center, visit FEMA.gov/DRC.
- Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.
- Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.
Support for Florida

As Helene recovery efforts continue in Florida, FEMA has approved more than $157 million for over 51,800 households. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities affected by Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors are visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.

There are 97 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods, and three Disaster Recovery Centers are open where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Additional centers will reopen following assessments to the facilities following Milton. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.

Support for South Carolina

As recovery efforts continue in South Carolina, FEMA has approved over $106 million for more than 121,500 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties continuing to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are 73 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods and one Disaster Recovery Center open where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133.

Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information.

Support for Georgia

FEMA has approved over $85 million for more than 92,300 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are 129 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods and two Disaster Recovery Centers open where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Resources: Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene.

Support for Virginia

To date, FEMA has approved over $3.2 million for over 1,000 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are about 38 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods, and three Disaster Recovery Centers open where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at: Recover – Hurricane Helene | VDEM (vaemergency.gov)

Support for Tennessee

FEMA has approved more than $9 million for disaster assistance for over 1,800 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are more than 39 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit TEMA’s website.

Voluntary Organizations

Voluntary organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has hundreds of trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. Additionally, they are helping find loved ones through their helpline 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by the Red Cross Hurricane Helene Reunification page where people can enter pertinent information about the person they’re looking for. If someone is missing a child related to this disaster or any other incident, they need to call 9-1-1 and then 1-800-THE-LOST to receive assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

FEMA remains steadfast in its mission to support survivors as they begin their recovery from these historic storms. The agency will continue to work with federal, state, and local partners to ensure the safety and well-being of those impacted by Milton and Helene.
amy.ashbridge
Sat, 10/12/2024 – 19:41

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Industrial Strategy launch to ‘hardwire stability for investors’
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Government launches a modern Industrial Strategy and new Advisory Council ahead of International Investment Summit
Industrial Strategy logo

The Business Secretary and Chancellor announce steps to deliver long-term growth through a modern Industrial Strategy, including appointing a Chair of the new Industrial Strategy Advisory Council

The Industrial Strategy will create a pro-business environment and play to the UK’s strengths, focusing on eight growth driving sectors including creative industries and financial services

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds pledges an end to instability “our modern Industrial Strategy will hardwire stability for investors and give industry the confidence to plan for the next 10 years and beyond”

Clare Barclay, CEO of Microsoft UK, will chair government’s new Industrial Strategy Advisory Council, which will provide expert advice developed in partnership with business, unions, and stakeholders from across the UK

Announcements come ahead of International Investment Summit which will bring together business leaders from around the globe to boost investment and growth

Government is also asking for business to help shape the industrial strategy with a green paper to develop the plans in partnership

The next generation of British industry has been fired-up and readied to reignite our industrial heartlands and kickstart economic growth, as the Government launches the first Industrial Strategy in seven years.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves have published a green paper to kickstart delivery of the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy. The strategy will drive long-term growth in key sectors that is sustainable, resilient and distributed across the country.

Announcing the eight growth sectors will be the focus of the Strategy, alongside naming the new Industrial Strategy Advisory Council’s chair, the Business Secretary has promised to ‘give investors a ten year plan to choose Britain’.

The key sectors the government will focus its modern Industrial Strategy are on advanced manufacturing; clean energy industries, creative industries; defence; digital and technologies; financial services; life sciences; and professional and business services.

The green paper, which will be published on the day of the International Investment Summit, will bring together UK leaders, high-profile investors and businesses from across the world. There, Reynolds is expected to tell delegates the Industrial Strategy will put Britain back on the global stage and help attract investment into the most productive parts of the UK economy.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds MP said:

Our modern Industrial Strategy will hardwire stability for investors and give them the confidence to plan not just for the next year, but for the next 10 years and beyond.

This is the next step in our pro worker, pro business plan which will see investors and workers alike get the security and stability they need to succeed.

Clare’s wealth of talent and experience will help ensure the Industrial Strategy delivers its mission of unleashing the potential of high productivity sectors to spur growth, spread wealth, and drive-up employment across the UK.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves MP said:

I have never been more optimistic about our country’s potential. We have some of the brightest minds and greatest businesses in the world. From the creative industries and life sciences to advanced manufacturing and financial services.

This Government is determined to deliver on Britain’s potential so we can rebuild Britain and make every part of the country better off.

Clare Barclay, CEO of Microsoft UK, will chair the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council. The Council will inform the development of the Industrial Strategy through its expertise and latest evidence, working with business, trade unions, devolved governments, local leaders, academia and stakeholders.

In the King’s speech the Government committed to putting the Council on a statutory footing – giving it powers and responsibilities and ensuring it will be permanent and independent.

Ahead of establishing a statutory body, we are introducing an interim advisory Council. The first Council meeting and announcement of full membership is expected in the coming weeks.

Microsoft UK CEO Clare Barclay said:

As Chair of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council, I will ensure the Council provides a clear and strong voice on behalf of business, nations, regions, and trade unions, as we invest for the future to ensure that our prosperity is underpinned by robust growth in key sectors right across the country.

Whilst we fully embrace the industries of today, we must also have a clear plan for future growth, and the Advisory Council will play a central role in shaping and delivering this plan.

The government has also identified eight growth-driving sectors for the Industrial Strategy, focusing on sectors the UK excels in today and will excel tomorrow.

Over the last 25 years, the top 30% of sectors ranked by productivity in 1997 were responsible for generating roughly 60% of the economy’s entire productivity growth. That’s why our Industrial Strategy will channel support to sectors and geographical clusters that have the highest growth potential for the next decade.

Our strategy will create a pro-business environment to capture a greater share of internationally mobile investment in strategic sectors and motivate domestic business to boost their investment and scale up their growth.

Businesses up and down the country will also be invited to respond to the Industrial Strategy Green Paper, which will be published tomorrow.

The consultation will provide stakeholders with the opportunity to inform the Strategy’s continued development and ensure it delivers tangible impact to people and communities right across the UK.

Views are sought from business, international investors, unions and any other interested parties, on the overall vision, approach to growth sectors and the policy levers needed to drive investment.

Make UK CEO Stephen Phipson said:

We live in a world which is massively different to a decade ago and simply leaving the economy and, industrial strategy, to the free market is an ideology which is long past its sell by date. This is a welcome first step in addressing the achilles heel of the economy which has left the UK an outlier among advanced countries. It sets out a clarity of vision for how the resources of Government and, in particular, each department can be convened towards a single objective of long term growth across all regions.

With the welcome announcement of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council Chair and, the Council being put on a statutory footing, industry will no longer fear the constant chop and change in policy we have seen over the last decade or so and can focus on the long term – it is important that the Government is delivering on its promises.

WPP CEO Mark Read said:

WPP supports the Government’s objective to create and foster an investment environment that drives long-term growth. As a global marketing services company, we believe that the UK’s world-leading creative industries, powered by new technologies like AI and exceptional talent, can continue to play a key role in further advancing the UK’s investment case on the global stage.

Airbus UK Chairman John Harrison said:

Airbus welcomes the inclusion of advanced manufacturing in the Government’s Industrial Strategy as a vital opportunity to build on the successful partnership between government and the aerospace sector.

As one of the most technologically advanced businesses in the UK, we also welcome the strong focus on innovation, which is crucial to driving future growth and maintaining the UK’s global competitiveness in aerospace and defence.

For businesses to invest and thrive they need confidence in their supply chains. So, we are also establishing a new supply chains taskforce in government that will work to assess where supply chains critical to the UK’s economic security and resilience – including those in the growth driving sectors outlined in the industrial strategy – could be vulnerable to disruption. The taskforce will ensure that government works with business to address these risks, building the conditions required to deliver secure growth.

We want the UK to be a prime investment opportunity for business. The Industrial Strategy, and the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council, will be key to giving investors the solid foundation on which to build.

Notes to Editors:

More information on sectors and productivity can be found here: https://www.ons.gov.uk/economy/economicoutputandproductivity/productivitymeasures/datasets/outputperhourworkeduk

The Green Paper will be published tomorrow [Monday 14 October] at 9:30am. Businesses will have until 24 November to respond.

Clare Barclay biography: Clare is Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft UK. She leads the strategy and delivery of Microsoft’s business in the UK, focused on helping organisations accelerate technology-driven growth. She is a thought leader and regular keynote speaker on how technology and AI presents a transformational opportunity to fuel UK economic growth. Clare engages at board level across industry sectors on how best to capitalise on the opportunity in harnessing the potential of AI. With nearly three decades in the technology industry, Clare has held a range of senior leadership roles with experience across all aspects of the business including partnerships to unlock opportunity across industries and empowering small and medium businesses, the beating heart of the UK economy, to prosper. In her prior role as Chief Operating Officer, she was also responsible for driving significant transformational change for Microsoft and in helping reshape its culture. Clare is passionate about the UK as a talent hub and the potential for UK industry to lead on the world stage, leveraging the latest scientific and technological advances. She is also deeply committed to diversity and inclusion and in helping young people succeed. She lives in London with her husband and two sons.

The Summit will be sponsored by Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, M&G plc, Octopus Energy, and TSL.

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Published 13 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China, Laos to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation of higher quality

Source: China State Council Information Office

China and Laos agreed to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation of higher quality in a joint statement issued in Vientiane, Laos on Saturday during Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s official visit to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic from Oct. 11 to 12 at the invitation of its Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone.

In the statement, China and Laos agreed to continue to strengthen practical cooperation under the framework of strategic alignment between China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Laos’ strategy to “convert the landlocked country into a land-linked hub” and to implement the outline of the cooperation plan for jointly building the Belt and Road between the two countries.

The two sides agreed to promote the operation, maintenance and development along the China-Laos Railway with high quality, actively push for the “juxtaposed border control” of the China-Laos Railway to achieve substantial progress as soon as possible, and strive for the standard gauge connection of China-Laos Railway and Thailand railway at an early date to promote the implementation of the China-Laos-Thailand Connectivity Development Corridor Outlook, said the statement.

China appreciates Laos’ interest in and intention to cooperate on Chinese commercial aircraft and welcomes Laos’ aviation enterprises to introduce these aircraft, it said.

The two countries will further strengthen trade exchange and increase the scale and level of trade. To this end, China and Laos will work together to implement the zero-tariff arrangement for 100 percent of Lao products exported to China, and push for more high-quality Lao agricultural and food exports to China, it added.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: News release on new Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle interim rule on movement of host material

Source: US State of Hawaii

News release on new Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle interim rule on movement of host material

Posted on Oct 11, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom





DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

ʻOIHANA MAHIʻAI

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR

KIAʻĀINA


SHARON HURD
CHAIRPERSON

HAWAI`I BOARD OF AGRICULTURE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NR24-29

October 11, 2024

NEW INTERIM RULE CONTINUES RESTRICTIONS ON THE MOVEMENT OF PALM PLANTS AND ORGANIC MATERIAL THAT MAY CONTAIN COCONUT RHINOCEROS BEETLES

HONOLULU – The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) today established a new interim rule to help stop the movement of the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) from designated CRB-infested areas to non-infested areas in the state. Today, the Advisory Committee on Plants and Animals recommended approval of a new interim rule that restricts the movement of palm plants; decomposing plant material, such as compost, wood or tree chips; mulch; potting soil; and other landscaping products that may harbor CRB, from infested areas to non-infested areas. In addition, the interim rule restricts the movement of palm plants higher than four feet in height, which will enable closer inspection of palm crowns where CRB are most likely to bore into a tree. The interim rule designates the island of O‘ahu as a CRB-infested area and is subsequent to other interim rules that were issued in June 2022 and October 2023.

The interim rule was signed today by HDOA Chairperson Sharon Hurd and is effective immediately. It is valid for one year, while HDOA finalizes a permanent rule which is slated to be considered by the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture later this month.

Any individual, company, or organization that violates the rule will be charged with a misdemeanor and fined not less than $100 and up to $10,000. Penalties for a second offense committed within five years will require the violator to pay for the cost of clean-up and decontamination fees to remove contaminated materials, as well as the cost to fully eradicate any CRB infestations caused by the violation. Repeat violators will be fined not less than $500 and up to $25,000.

HDOA’s Plant Quarantine Branch inspectors at all island ports are concentrating efforts on inspections of potential CRB host material transported between islands.

Residents on all islands are asked to be vigilant when purchasing mulch, compost and soil products, and to inspect bags for evidence of entry holes. An adult beetle is about two inches long, all black and has a single horn on its head. CRB grubs live in decomposing plant and animal waste. Adult CRB prefer to feed on coconut and other larger palms and are a major threat to the health of these plants.

Residents may go to the CRB Response website at: https://www.crbhawaii.org/ to learn more about how to detect the signs of CRB damage and how to identify CRB life stages. Reports of possible CRB infestation may also be made to the state’s toll-free Pest Hotline at 808-643-PEST (7378).

Surveillance for CRB has been ongoing on all neighbor islands, including pheromone traps at airports, harbors and other strategic locations. The traps are used for early detection of CRB infestations and are being monitored by HDOA, island Invasive Species Committees and the University of Hawai‘i.

The CRB is a large scarab beetle that was first detected on O‘ahu in 2013. The beetle has since been detected in many neighborhoods on O‘ahu, In May 2023, CRB was detected on Kaua‘i and collaborative eradication efforts continue on the island. On Hawai‘i Island, CRB was detected in a palm tree stump Waikoloa in October 2023 and a single CRB was found dead in a trap last month in that same area. CRB grubs were found in Kīhei, Maui, in November 2023, but have not been detected on the island since.

CRB is a serious pest of palm trees, primarily coconut palms, as the adult beetles bore into the crowns of the palms to feed on the trees’ sap. New unopened fronds are damaged in this way and when fully opened, may break and fall unexpectedly. If CRB kill or damage the growing point of the palm, the tree may die. Secondary fungal or bacterial pathogens may also attack the wounds caused by CRB, thereby killing the tree as well. Tree mortality after CRB attack has been reported to be anywhere from 10 percent to 50 percent. Dead trees then become a safety hazard as they may fall unexpectedly after the trunk rots, potentially resulting in bodily injury or property damage.

CRB is a major pest of palms in India, the Philippines, Palau, Fiji, Wallis and Futuna, Nukunono, American and Western Samoa and Guam. It is still not known exactly how the beetles arrived in Hawai‘i.

###

Media Contact:
Janelle Saneishi, Public Information Officer
Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture
Phone: 808-973-9560
Cell: 808-341-5528
[email protected]
http://hdoa.hawaii.gov

Aloha,

Janelle Saneishi

Public Information Officer

Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture
ph: (808) 973-9560
email: [email protected]

Website: https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/

Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged information. Any review, use, disclosure, or distribution by unintended recipients is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient(s), please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: New Interim Rule Continues Restrictions on the Movement of Palm Plants and Organic Material That May Contain Coconut Rhinoceros Beetles

Source: US State of Hawaii

New Interim Rule Continues Restrictions on the Movement of Palm Plants and Organic Material That May Contain Coconut Rhinoceros Beetles

Posted on Oct 11, 2024 in Main

October 11, 2024
NR24-29

HONOLULU – The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) today established a new interim rule to help stop the movement of the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) from designated CRB-infested areas to non-infested areas in the state. Today, the Advisory Committee on Plants and Animals recommended approval of a new interim rule that restricts the movement of palm plants; decomposing plant material, such as compost, wood or tree chips; mulch; potting soil; and other landscaping products that may harbor CRB, from infested areas to non-infested areas. In addition, the interim rule restricts the movement of palm plants higher than four feet in height, which will enable closer inspection of palm crowns where CRB are most likely to bore into a tree. The interim rule designates the island of O‘ahu as a CRB-infested area and is subsequent to other interim rules that were issued in June 2022 and October 2023.

The interim rule was signed today by HDOA Chairperson Sharon Hurd and is effective immediately. It is valid for one year, while HDOA finalizes a permanent rule which is slated to be considered by the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture later this month.

Any individual, company, or organization that violates the rule will be charged with a misdemeanor and fined not less than $100 and up to $10,000. Penalties for a second offense committed within five years will require the violator to pay for the cost of clean-up and decontamination fees to remove contaminated materials, as well as the cost to fully eradicate any CRB infestations caused by the violation. Repeat violators will be fined not less than $500 and up to $25,000.

HDOA’s Plant Quarantine Branch inspectors at all island ports are concentrating efforts on inspections of potential CRB host material transported between islands.

Residents on all islands are asked to be vigilant when purchasing mulch, compost and soil products, and to inspect bags for evidence of entry holes. An adult beetle is about two inches long, all black and has a single horn on its head. CRB grubs live in decomposing plant and animal waste. Adult CRB prefer to feed on coconut and other larger palms and are a major threat to the health of these plants.

Residents may go to the CRB Response website at: https://www.crbhawaii.org/ to learn more about how to detect the signs of CRB damage and how to identify CRB life stages. Reports of possible CRB infestation may also be made to the state’s toll-free Pest Hotline at 808-643-PEST (7378).

Surveillance for CRB has been ongoing on all neighbor islands, including pheromone traps at airports, harbors and other strategic locations. The traps are used for early detection of CRB infestations and are being monitored by HDOA, island Invasive Species Committees and the University of Hawai‘i.

The CRB is a large scarab beetle that was first detected on O‘ahu in 2013. The beetle has since been detected in many neighborhoods on O‘ahu, In May 2023, CRB was detected on Kaua‘i and collaborative eradication efforts continue on the island. On Hawai‘i Island, CRB was detected in a palm tree stump Waikoloa in October 2023 and a single CRB was found dead in a trap last month in that same area. CRB grubs were found in Kīhei, Maui, in November 2023, but have not been detected on the island since.

CRB is a serious pest of palm trees, primarily coconut palms, as the adult beetles bore into the crowns of the palms to feed on the trees’ sap. New unopened fronds are damaged in this way and when fully opened, may break and fall unexpectedly. If CRB kill or damage the growing point of the palm, the tree may die. Secondary fungal or bacterial pathogens may also attack the wounds caused by CRB, thereby killing the tree as well. Tree mortality after CRB attack has been reported to be anywhere from 10 percent to 50 percent. Dead trees then become a safety hazard as they may fall unexpectedly after the trunk rots, potentially resulting in bodily injury or property damage.

CRB is a major pest of palms in India, the Philippines, Palau, Fiji, Wallis and Futuna, Nukunono, American and Western Samoa and Guam. It is still not known exactly how the beetles arrived in Hawai‘i.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sustainable Habits, No Matter Big Or Small, Can Be Evergreen

Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

Data security in e-waste recycling, public hygiene, and hawker culture highlighted this year.

Singapore, 13 October 2024 – More than 1000 Clean & Green activities in the form of events or talks, involving partners such as schools, grassroots organisations, NGOs and the corporate sector, plus visits to sites of environmental interest and volunteer deployments, have been held so far across Singapore throughout 2024. In total, the activities saw more than 400,000 participants. The CGS movement encourages everyone to do our part as stewards of a Clean & Green Singapore. To continue our journey of sustainable development, we invite all in Singapore to champion a sustainable way of life, conserve our greenery and biodiversity, adopt green practices, and contribute to a more gracious society.

2          The National Environment Agency (NEA)’s annual Clean & Green Singapore (CGS) flagship event, CGS Day, will be held on 3 November 2024. Leading up to CGS Day, four satellite events will be held for members of the public, featuring fun family activities.

International E-waste Day 2024 Celebration

13 Oct 2024 (Sun), 10 am – 6 pm @ Westgate Mall

3          This year’s International E-waste Day (IEWD) 2024 “Secure E-Waste Recycling: Let’s Make a Difference Together”, focuses on data security. Launched by Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment, Dr Amy Khor, IEWD 2024 aims to raise wider awareness of the secure recycling of data-bearing devices such as mobile phones and laptops. Visitors can learn about e-waste management, especially the data sanitisation and dismantling processes that the e-waste recyclers undertake, by going through educational booths and activities by ALBA E-Waste Smart Recycling and other industry and community stakeholders. IEWD 2024 underscores the overall importance of recycling in Singapore as we move towards becoming a zero-waste nation. More information on the recycling of data-bearing devices can be found in Annex A and B.

4          As part of IEWD 2024, contests such as the E-Waste Song Challenge, Photo Contest and Community E-waste Recycling Drive were organised to encourage members of public to play an active role in e-waste recycling. The song challenge and photo contest received 66 entries in total, while five community groups, comprising NGOs, Institutes of Higher Learning, and grassroots organisations, participated in the Community E-waste Recycling Drive.

Eco Paddle with Ola

13 October 2024 (Sun), 8.30am – 11.30am @ Siloso Beach, Sentosa

5             Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and the Environment, Mr Baey Yam Keng, joined a kayak litter-picking and beach clean-up activity at Siloso Beach, Sentosa this morning. Organised by Ola Beach Club, the event saw over 100 volunteers from Coca-Cola Singapore, Singapore Paddle Club, Friends of ACE (a migrant worker volunteer network under the Ministry of Manpower), the NEA Volunteer Corps, and the Public Hygiene Council (PHC). The event highlights the important role volunteers play in contributing to a clean environment, as well as supporting marine conservation efforts. The event was also supported by partners, such as Mount Faber Leisure Group, Sentosa Development Corporation and Soffell Singapore. Members of the public who missed this event can sign up for similar activities under CGS Experiences at https://www.cgs.gov.sg/events/eco-paddles-with-ola/, available till end November 2024.

Community Clean Up @ Upper Boon Keng

19 October 2024 (Sat), 9am – 11am, Upper Boon Keng Market & Food Centre

6         SMS Dr Koh Poh Koon, along with Minister Josephine Teo, Adviser to Jalan Besar GRC GROs, is set to join 50 volunteers for a community clean up at Upper Boon Keng. The event brings together a diverse group comprising SG Clean Ambassadors, Friends of ACE, Kolam Ayer GRO members, and representatives and volunteers from the Federation of Merchants’ Associations Singapore (FMAS), and Kao Singapore. The event will feature litter-picking activities to promote public cleanliness within the estate, as well as the distribution of Magiclean disinfectants and kitchen cleaners, sponsored by Kao Singapore, to hawkers at the Upper Boon Keng Market & Food Centre. The Community Clean Up @ Upper Boon Keng aims to shine a spotlight on good hygiene practices in the F&B industry. The event also demonstrates how stakeholders from different groups, such as residents, merchant associations, corporate partners, migrant workers, and volunteers, can come together for the common cause of keeping shared public spaces clean. This community spirit of taking greater ownership of the environment is the core driver of the Clean & Green Singapore movement.

Flag-off of Race to Sustainability! 2024

23 October 2024 (Wed), 9.30am – 10.30am, Gardens by the Bay

7             Gardens by the Bay’s flagship educational programme, Race to Sustainability!, will return this October. For the first time, it will be open to both lower primary and tertiary students, in addition to upper primary and secondary school students, to engage a wider range of youths. The expanded participation signifies the importance of engaging students and youth of all ages on sustainability issues, to help ensure a Clean & Green future for Singapore. This year’s theme centres on exploring sustainability through imagination and creative play, and offers tailored activities based on students’ levels. These include guided tours, talks, and hands-on challenges in an ‘Amazing Race’ format throughout the Gardens, where participants will learn about Singapore’s sustainability journey, the Gardens’ sustainability strategies, climate change and plant diversity. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Ms Grace Fu, will be flagging off the race on 23rd October 2024.

8          Additionally, the public can also look forward to a series of exhibitions focused on sustainability, open until 1 December 2024. More details are available at https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/racetosustainability.

CGS Day 2024

3 Nov 2024 (Sun), 9am – 11am @ West Coast Park and National University of Singapore (NUS)

9          The four satellite events will be capped off by CGS Day 2024, with Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat as Guest-of-Honour. The event will feature the opening of a new PHC CleanPod^[1] at West Coast Park, followed by a community clean-up activity, a tree-planting at NUS UTown, and the presentation of the Environmental Services Star Awards and Community-In-Bloom Ambassador Awards. CGS Day celebrates the environmental efforts of schools, grassroots, corporate partners and outstanding individuals this past year, as well as reaffirm the community’s commitment to keeping Singapore clean and green. More details on CGS Day will be available closer to date.

10        CGS aims to inspire Singaporeans to care for our environment by adopting a clean, green, and sustainable lifestyle. Each of us can shape our neighbourhoods and common spaces through our green practices, championing a sustainable way of life, and by being a more gracious society. More information on CGS is available at https://www.cgs.gov.sg/.

————

[1] CleanPods are fully equipped storage sheds that the public can apply to the Public Hygiene Council (PHC) for access to. The public can then borrow tools such as metal tongs and buckets from the sheds, to conduct their own clean-up activities. PHC has set up CleanPods in various housing estates, beaches and parks. To find out more about CleanPods, please visit: https://www.publichygienecouncil.sg/resources/cleanpod/

~~ End ~~

For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.

ANNEX A

Factsheet on Singapore’s Regulated E-waste Management System

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Scheme for E-waste

1          In July 2021, Singapore implemented a nationwide e-waste management system for regulated products, also known as the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme for E-waste. Producers of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) are physically and/or financially responsible for the collection and proper treatment of discarded EEE. NEA has appointed ALBA E-waste Smart Recycling Pte Ltd (ALBA) to operate the Producer Responsibility Scheme (PRS) in Singapore. As the PRS Operator, ALBA coordinates the collection and proper treatment of consumer e-waste on behalf of the producers.

2          Since the implementation of e-waste EPR, ALBA has set up over 800 e-waste collection points that includes e-waste bins and manned collections. They have also partnered organisations such as corporates and public agencies to improve e-waste collections. As of June 2024, more than 20,000 tonnes of e-waste (equivalent to weight of 73 Airbus A380 airplanes) was collected and recycled under the EPR Scheme for E-waste, up from the total of over 16,000 tonnes as of December 2023.

Data security in e-waste recycling

3             International E-waste Day (IEWD) is a global initiative to raise wider awareness about the growing problem of electronic waste and its impact on the environment and human health. This year’s IEWD, themed “data security” aims to create awareness on data security measures and provide assurance on secure e-waste recycling. Members of the public are encouraged to perform the following steps to protect their information prior to e-waste recycling.

4          Before recycling any data-bearing devices such as laptops, tablets, and mobile phones, the public is advised to protect their personal information by first backing up their data. They should also log out from their personal accounts and remove any storage media before performing a factory reset on their data-bearing devices. A factory reset is an irreversible process; this ensures that any outstanding data is wiped, providing users with a piece of mind before they recycle their data-bearing devices. Detailed steps to recycling data bearing devices can be found in Annex B.

5          Devices placed in e-waste bins are collected by ALBA E-waste Smart Recycling Pte Ltd and sent to e-waste recyclers for treatment and recycling.

6            E-waste recyclers take further steps to ensure that data is destroyed before recycling the devices. A data-bearing device is first dismantled to obtain the storage hard drive. The hard drive may then be fed into a degausser machine, which disables the data storage ability of the hard drive using a high magnetic field. Devices may also be crushed or shredded by use of a crusher or shredder machine. This ensures that the data bearing device is physically destroyed and data cannot be recovered by any means.

Call-for-action to recycle our e-waste

7          Through proper e-waste treatment and recycling, precious materials such as lithium, cobalt, copper, gold, silver and aluminium can be recovered, which reduces the need to mine for more raw materials. Reducing the need for mining also lowers pollution, as the process of mining has an impact on our environment. In addition, recycled material from e-waste, such as metal and plastic, can be reused to make new products.

8          Proper recycling of e-waste also safeguards human and environmental health. Improper disposal of e-waste leads to environmental pollution, and this may in turn harm human health. E-waste comprises many different components and requires specialised equipment to dismantle, shred, process and extract the constituent materials. This has to be performed within a controlled environment to prevent pollution while ensuring workplace safety and health. Choosing to recycle instead of discarding e-waste, ensures that they can undergo the proper treatment processes.

9          To do your part, the public can conveniently drop off e-waste at more than 870 collection points in accessible locations such as electronics retail outlets, shopping malls, community centres, supermarkets, government and commercial buildings.

– End –

ANNEX B

Steps to Recycle your Data-Bearing Devices

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Osaka Expo faces construction, ticket sales challenges ahead of opening

Source: China State Council Information Office

This photo taken on June 27, 2024 shows the construction site of the Grand Ring, the symbol for Expo 2025 Osaka, on the Yumeshima artificial island in Japan. [Photo/Xinhua]

The preparations for the 2025 World Exposition in the western Japanese city of Osaka are facing significant challenges six months ahead of its opening, local media reported.

One major concern is the delay in the construction of pavilions and other key facilities. Construction of many of the pavilions has fallen behind schedule, with concern growing some will not be completed by the opening, Kyodo News reported.

A plan to operate flying taxis, viewed as one of the event’s highlights, has been dropped after all four operators gave up on carrying passengers in their electric aircraft due to safety challenges, according to the report.

As of Oct. 6, over 7 million tickets had been sold, half of the 14 million advance tickets aimed for, the report cited organizers, adding some officials from participating companies say they are not very optimistic about sales.

The World Expo 2025 is scheduled to be held from April 13 to Oct. 13, 2025, on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay.

The budget for construction has grown 1.9-fold from the original plan to 235 billion yen (about $1.6 billion) and that for operation of the venue has risen 1.4-fold to 116 billion yen (about $780 million).

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Lufthansa Group awarded “Best Airline App 2024” worldwide

Source: Lufthansa Group

The Lufthansa Group has been awarded the prize for the world’s best airline app 2024 at the World Aviation Festival (WAF).

The Lufthansa Group app was previously evaluated by customers and nominated for the final round. A jury of experts compared the four nominees in a competition, the “Battle of the Airline Apps”, and rated the Lufthansa Group app as the best among the biggest players in the industry. The Lufthansa product came out on top against the apps from Emirates, Qatar Airways and Air India.

Dieter Vranckx, Member of the Executive Board Lufthansa Group, Global Markets & Commercial Airlines Hubs, says: “The Lufthansa Group App puts our customers at the center and provides them with user-friendly services, transparent information and support throughout their journey. I am proud of the entire team for the great progress we have made in recent years. The award for the Lufthansa Group app encourages us to continue developing our digital services for Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, SWISS and Brussels Airlines.”

Oliver Schmitt, Head of Digital Customer Solutions and Managing Director Digital Hangar GmbH, says: “The digital travel experience of our guests is increasingly determined by their mobile devices. The app is playing a growing role as a travel companion. In recent years, we have worked specifically on service offerings, especially in the event of irregularities, on simplifications and better information for our guests, and created numerous benefits for frequent flyers.”

The World Aviation Festival is a leading global conference for the international aviation industry, focusing on technology, passenger experience, digitalization and sustainability in aviation.

MIL OSI Global Banks –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: A Serendipitous NASA Family Reunion

Source: NASA

Growing up in Puerto Rico, Yomayra Cruz-Diaz didn’t imagine that one day she would work at NASA. Today, she serves as technical project coordinator at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Virginia, supporting its Aeronautics Research Directorate.
Cruz-Diaz’s position requires her to travel in support of public engagement events and recently she supported NASA’s presence at the Miramar Airshow in San Diego, California where the agency’s booth featured Spanish-language STEM materials.
Something, or rather, someone, made this event especially unique for Cruz-Diaz: Her son, Israel Martinez-Cruz, is currently serving in the United States Marine Corps and is stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.
In a stroke of serendipity, they were both working the same event for their respective employers. Living on opposite sides of the country, they hadn’t seen each other in person for nearly a year. With surprise and joy, they hugged.
Growing up in a Puerto Rican household, conversations about core values revolved around family, Martinez-Cruz said. He recalled seeing his mom work at NASA and feeling inspired by her work ethic. That level of commitment ran in the family.
“Israel and I would carpool,” she said. “He would drop me off at Langley and then he would go on his way to his aircraft mechanic school.”
Martinez-Cruz serves as an air traffic controller, work that Cruz-Diaz knew about but had never seen in person.
“He’s explained to me what his job entails but taking a tour of his job site gives me a whole new understanding,” she said after a tour of the air traffic control tower.
NASA is proud to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, the annual observance honoring the wide and rich histories, cultures, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latino community. In the words of NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, “Adelante y hacia arriba,” or “Onward and upward!”

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stronger fuel reserves to drive economic stability

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand’s fuel resilience is being strengthened to ensure people and goods keep moving and connected to the world in case of disruptions, Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones says.

“Fuel security is a priority for the Coalition Government. We are acutely aware of how important engine fuels are to our economy and the impacts a fuel disruption would have on New Zealanders. New Zealand imports nearly all of its engine fuels, making us particularly vulnerable to international and domestic supply disruptions,” Mr Jones says.

“Ensuring we hold enough reserve stocks in the right place to ride out possible disruptions is a key pillar of fuel security. It is a critical insurance policy needed to safeguard against the potentially devastating impacts that a severe and sustained fuel disruption might have.

“The previous government introduced a minimum stockholding obligation, which means from 1 January 2025 fuel importers will be required to hold 28 days’ cover for petrol, 24 days for jet fuel and 21 days for diesel.

“Importantly, the minimum stockholding obligation regulations introduce a new information disclosure rule which enables government to have much clearer oversight over how much fuel is held in New Zealand.

“However, I am not satisfied that 21 days’ cover for diesel is enough, nor is the jet fuel stockholding rule sufficient to avoid disruptions to international aviation such as that we experienced in 2017.

“Diesel is our most important fuel – it keeps food and people moving through our country. Without it, New Zealanders would struggle to access everything they need. We need to hold enough diesel onshore to keep essential goods moving through the country and vital services running, even if fuel supply chains have been disrupted.

“For this reason, I am seeking feedback on increasing diesel reserves to 28 days’ stock to help reduce any potential impact of a disruption to supply.

“I am also concerned about security of supply of jet fuel at Auckland Airport. In September I informed the fuel companies which own the jet fuel infrastructure at the airport of my plan to seek Cabinet agreement on regulations that would mandate sufficient jet fuel to be held near Auckland Airport.

“Auckland Airport is New Zealand’s gateway to the world – 75 per cent of all international seat capacity into New Zealand and 90 per cent of all long haul flights come into Auckland.

“New Zealand found out the hard way in 2017 when jet fuel supply was disrupted, forcing planes to be diverted and reducing our connection with the world. Further issues with jet fuel quality in 2022 reinforce the need for action.

“Despite the 2019 Government Inquiry into the 2017 Auckland Fuel Supply Disruption recommending jet fuel companies urgently increase their jet fuel holdings near Auckland airport, little progress has been made. Establishing a location-specific jet fuel stockholding requirement would ensure the jet fuel companies act to secure enough fuel is on hand to ride out any disruption to supply.

“Along with reversing the ban on oil and gas exploration, these actions will further strengthen New Zealand’s resilience and self-determination to ensure disruptions to our energy supply do not halt the economy,” Mr Jones says.

Read the discussion document on increasing diesel reserves from 21 to 28 days and have your say here: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/have-your-say/options-for-improving-our-diesel-resilience. Consultation closes on December 6.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Wellington City Council must dig deep to cut the waste
Source: ACT Party

ACT’s Local Government spokesperson Cameron Luxton is urging Wellington City Council to dig deep on cuts to wasteful spending as it revisits its long-term plan following the cancellation of the sale of the Council’s airport shares this week.

“With or without the sale, it’s clear that that the council is spending far too much, hiking rates too far, and strangling the life out of the city,” says Mr Luxton.

“It is a failure of governance that the Mayor and those councillors in favour of the sale were not able to convince their colleagues that the proceeds from the sale would not be wasted.

“No council should own an airport, but equally, no council should be spending as recklessly as Wellington is.

“Looking at the previously approved long-term plan, and related documents, obvious areas for savings include:
- $112.9m to remove car access along the Golden mile
- At least $104.4m on rescuing the city library
- $115.2m on cycle lanes
- $114m on a food waste recycling scheme and wheelie bins for general rubbish to be collected less frequently than the status quo
“These obvious areas for savings just scratch the service but collectively would far outstrip the roughly $321 million value of the airport shares.

“With the dire state of the council’s finances, even sacred cows like the wrecked Town Hall and the zoo should be on the table for sale.

“This week’s decision was a scathing indictment on the Council’s ability to serve the people on Wellington. But if the failure to sell airport shares forces the Council to take a hard look at its spending, that’s a silver lining.

“The introduction of unelected commissioners, as we saw in Tauranga, would be a disastrous outcome. Wellington’s council must urgently demonstrate its competence, dig deep to cut low-value spending and liquidate assets, and finally show some respect to ratepayers.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: New leading cyber & digital forensics training facility for NSW jobs precinct

Source: New South Wales Premiere

Published: 11 October 2024

Released by: Minister for Regional NSW

A major state-of-the art cyber and digital forensics training facility will soon call South Jerrabomberra home following the Minns Labor Government’s $23 million investment in enabling infrastructure within the South Jerrabomberra Regional Jobs Precinct in southern NSW.

CBIT Digital Forensics Services (CDFS), an Australian supplier of digital forensic tools, industry training and certification, has chosen the precinct to establish its first tactical training facility.

Digital forensics focuses on identifying, acquiring, processing, analysing, and reporting on data stored electronically.

CDFS anticipates it will almost double its workforce from nine to 18 over the next few years and plans to invest $11.7 million in a new building on the site, creating additional jobs for local construction and building workers.

The construction of the NANGU Cyber Forensics Facility is expected to be completed by March 2025 and aiming to have the facility ready for training and operations for the second semester.

The company has provided hi-tech services to organisations including law enforcement and government department to help deal with digital forensic and investigative issues including electronic evidence handling.

CDFS joins a growing number of investors setting up in the South Jerrabomberra Regional Jobs Precinct. Further blocks within the precinct will become available for investors in early 2025.

The precinct is supported by a $23 million contribution by the NSW Government for essential infrastructure including roads, footpaths, upgraded electricity, natural gas, water, and access to NBN Enterprise Ethernet services.

Strategically located on Canberra’s doorstep, the precinct’s infrastructure and proximity to universities, world-class research and development facilities and a skilled workforce makes it a highly attractive opportunity for investors.

With the wider region already home to more than 90 companies specialising in technology, cybersecurity and defence, the precinct development will help nurture high-tech careers in engineering, programming and science, specialising in cyber, space, AI, and defence.

The site’s proximity to government agencies and the nation’s decision-makers, an international airport and major road networks puts new and emerging businesses in a prime position to thrive.

To activate this investment-ready precinct in regional NSW, the NSW Government is working closely with the Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council, the ACT Government and federal agencies.

CDFS was supported by $3 million in Australian Government funding to establish the NANGU Cyber Forensics Facility.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“It is important that we empower regional people and communities to prosper through a boost in skills, wages and opportunities. Through Regional Job Precincts like South Jerrabomberra, the NSW Government is providing this opportunity.

“This precinct gives investors access to a highly skilled and educated local workforce. It aims to build a sustainable business hub offering fast-tracked planning approvals.

“This investor-ready precinct has the advantage of proximity to key decision-makers in Canberra, and I am really proud that the NSW Government is giving businesses this opportunity to establish and grow in regional NSW.”

Member for Monaro, Steve Whan said

“With the rapid growth of areas like Jerrabomberra, Tralee, and Googong, precincts like this are ensuring we can keep highly qualified and skilled workers in their local area, and not lose their talents to the ACT or other major cities.

“The investment in modern and specialised industries like cyber security, space, AI, and research is creating a sustainable and competitive workforce for regional NSW which will attract new people to our area.

“I look forward to touring the precinct and learning about the work being done there.”

CDFS CEO Zoran Iliev said:

“The Ngunnawal people, the Traditional Owners of the lands where the NANGU Cyber Forensics Facility will stand, have recognised that these lands have always been places of teaching and learning. We deeply respect their traditions and are grateful to have NANGU in this beautiful area with a unique position near Queanbeyan, the Canberra airport, and our nation’s capital.

Our facility, the NANGU Cyber Forensics Facility, will not only be a hub for technology and science but also a preserver of traditions. The forensic scientists trained here will not only be guardians of the truth but also guardians of the rich traditions of the Ngunnawal people.

“As an independent RTO, we are proud to bring this training facility to South Jerrabomberra and offer young Australians a unique chance to get the qualifications to help them get not just a job but a career to be proud of.

“The CDFS team and I are very proud and grateful for the opportunity to help this region by providing top-notch Cyber Forensics training and creating the much-needed new workforce in Cyber.”

MIL OSI News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Approves $825 Million to Helene Survivors and Communities, President Biden and Administrator Criswell Travel to Florida
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Biden-Harris Administration Approves $825 Million to Helene Survivors and Communities, President Biden and Administrator Criswell Travel to Florida

Biden-Harris Administration Approves $825 Million to Helene Survivors and Communities, President Biden and Administrator Criswell Travel to Florida
FEMA received over 250,000 applications for assistance in one day, making it the busiest day in the agency’s history for registrations

WASHINGTON – FEMA remains fully committed to assisting survivors affected by Helene and Milton as response teams work tirelessly to address immediate needs.

Today, President Biden and FEMA Administrator Criswell traveled to St. Petersburg, Florida to visit areas impacted by Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene. On Friday, in response to Milton, President Biden approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Florida, unlocking federal funds for survivors in 34 counties for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Survivors also have access to Serious Needs Assistance, for essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies, medication and other emergency supplies.

Yesterday, FEMA experienced a record-breaking day with over 250,000 applications, making it the busiest day in FEMA history for registrations inclusive of all storms. Applying online at disasterassistance.gov is the best way to apply for assistance.

Throughout the Southeast, over 9,600 total federal personnel are deployed, including 4,100 FEMA personnel on the ground, working closely with state officials to ensure survivors receive the support they need. As of today, FEMA has approved $474 million in assistance for individuals and communities affected and over $351 million for debris removal and activities to save lives, protect public health and safety and prevent damage to public and private property.

Hurricane Milton Recovery Update

While Hurricane Milton has passed, people in Milton-affected areas should continue following safety guidance from local officials – stay clear of downed power lines and continue to practice power outage and generator safety.

Power Restoration: Power restoration efforts have significantly improved across the region following Hurricane Milton. Crews have continued to work around the clock and have restored over 71% of the power outages.

Debris: FEMA is currently working with state and local officials on debris removal plans for areas affected by the storms. Residents should pay attention to local guidance related to debris removal in their area.

Staffing: More than 800 FEMA staff are on the ground providing support to affected communities. FEMA mobilized search and rescue teams, disaster response units and vital resources across Florida. Urban Search and Rescue continues to support state search and rescue teams, the National Guard, and local authorities. Federal teams supplemented the state’s critical operations such as water rescues, Emergency Operations Center support, volunteer and donations management and fire/HAZMAT response.

Sheltering: Over 40 shelters are currently housing over 2,700 people impacted by Milton, a significant decrease from nearly 13,000 earlier in the week.

Commodities: FEMA has delivered more than 1.2 million meals and 392,000 liters of water to augment the state’s supplies. FEMA has an additional 7.2 million meals and 4 million liters of water available to support survivors of Hurricane Milton, ensuring critical supplies are ready for immediate distribution.

Hurricane Helene Recovery Updates

FEMA has approved $474 million in federal disaster assistance for Hurricane Helene survivors and over $351 million in public assistance funding to help communities rebuild.

Hurricane Helene recovery efforts continue, with federal responders working throughout the region to provide immediate and long-term support. FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open across the region to provide support.

The agency is actively working alongside state, local and tribal partners to assess damage and support those affected by Helene. Over 9,600 personnel from across the federal workforce, including FEMA staff, are deployed to affected communities. To date, FEMA has delivered over 12.6 million meals and more than 12.8 million liters of water to the region.

Disaster survivors in certain areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in the designated areas should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula, breastfeeding supplies and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Helene.

There are three ways to apply for FEMA assistance:

Support for North Carolina

Financial Support: FEMA has approved more than $86 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 66,800 households.

Power and Cellular Restoration: More than 96% of originally reported power outages have been restored. Cellular restoration continues to improve, with more than 93% of cellular sites in service as of today.

Staffing: As response efforts continue in North Carolina, more than 1,250 FEMA staff are on the ground providing support to affected communities. Over 350 Urban Search and Rescue personnel remain in the field helping people. These teamshave rescued or supported over 3,100 survivors to date.

Sheltering: More than 2,225 families who cannot return home are staying in safe and clean lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. Under FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program, residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. FEMA will notify applicants of their eligibility for this assistance through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance. Shelter numbers continue to decline, with 14 shelters housing just over 500 occupants.

Commodities: Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations remain in areas of western North Carolina. Voluntary organizations are supporting feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft. Mobile feeding operations are helping survivors in heavily affected areas, including mass feeding sites in Buncombe and Watauga counties serving locations across the impacted areas.

Resources
- There are more than 300 Disaster Survivor Assistance members supporting neighborhoods in four counties to connect survivors with the assistance they need.
- There are four Disaster Recovery Centers now open, where survivors can speak directly with FEMA and state personnel for assistance with their recovery. To find the nearest center, visit FEMA.gov/DRC.
- Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.
- Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.
Support for Florida

As Helene recovery efforts continue in Florida, FEMA has approved more than $164 million for over 53,700 households. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities affected by Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors are visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.

There are 82 FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods, and three Disaster Recovery Centers are open where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Additional centers will reopen following assessments to the facilities impacted by Milton. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.

Support for South Carolina

As recovery efforts continue in South Carolina, FEMA has approved over $114 million for more than 129,500 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties, continuing to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are 76 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods, and one Disaster Recovery Center is open where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133.

Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information.

Support for Georgia

FEMA has approved over $94 million for more than 99,800 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are 129 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods, and two Disaster Recovery Centers are open with another opening today where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Resources: Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene.

Support for Virginia

To date, FEMA has approved over $3.9 million for over 1,220 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties, helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are about 40 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods, and three Disaster Recovery Centers open where survivors can speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at: Recover – Hurricane Helene | VDEM (vaemergency.gov)

Support for Tennessee

FEMA has approved more than $10 million for disaster assistance for over 2,036 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties, helping survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are more than 40 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit TEMA’s website.

Voluntary Organizations

Voluntary organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has hundreds of trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. Additionally, they are helping find loved ones through their helpline 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by the Red Cross Hurricane Helene Reunification page where people can enter pertinent information about the person they’re looking for. If someone is missing a child related to this disaster or any other incident, they need to call 9-1-1 and then 1-800-THE-LOST to receive assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

FEMA remains steadfast in its mission to support survivors as they begin their recovery from these historic storms. The agency will continue to work with federal, state, and local partners to ensure the safety and well-being of those impacted by Milton and Helene.
amy.ashbridge
Sun, 10/13/2024 – 22:16

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Airservices Australia Releases September Australian Aviation Network Overview
Source: Airservices Australia

Airservices Australia has released its Australian Aviation Network Overview report for September 2024.

Highlights include:
- In September 2024, the Australian aviation network experienced a slight increase (0.3 per cent) in daily average flights, coinciding with the school holidays and Melbourne AFL Grand Final. On Friday 27 September, Melbourne Airport recorded its busiest day for passenger traffic since the pandemic began, with 749 movements.
- Industry’s social licence for growth continues to be a priority, with initiatives like the Noise Action Plan, cross-boundary User Preferred Routes, and Continuous Descent Operations underway to improve noise and flight outcomes through proactive community engagement.
- Industry on-time performance (OTP) has improved in August by two percentage points due to better first-rotation performance which is a focus area for airlines. Lead indicators suggest industry OTP will continue to improve in the next OTP reporting cycle by the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE).
- We are seeing steady improvement in Airservices’ operating performance. Only 0.1 per cent of total network flight delays were attributed to Airservices with 0.2 per cent of flights impacted by capacity constraints. Ground delay hours were at the lowest level in more than a year, with no Airservices’-attributable ground delay at major East Coast airports in September. This reflects ongoing service performance enhancements and a focus on resilience leading into the September school holidays.
- Overall, air traffic service variations were limited to fewer airspace groups and air traffic control towers. At control towers, service variations reduced by 61 per cent primarily due to Avalon tower returning to published hours. Ensuring the consistency of service remains our key priority through measures such as active recruitment, tighter leave management practices, improved training pass rates and recruitment strategies, and building resilient rosters.
About Airservices
Airservices Australia is the Federal Government-owned organisation responsible for the safety of 11 per cent of the world’s airspace and the provision of aviation rescue fire fighting services at Australia’s busiest airports. We work closely with our customers and industry to support the long-term growth of the aviation industry and are investing in technologies to position Australia at the forefront of innovation in the global aviation industry.

MIL OSI News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: 19 killed in Israeli shelling on central Gaza school

Source: China State Council Information Office

People are seen at the al-Faluja school after it was attacked by Israeli aircraft in west of the Jabalia refugee camp, northern Gaza Strip, on Sept. 26, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

At least 19 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others injured on Sunday in Israeli shelling on a school housing displaced persons in the Nuseirat refugee camp of central Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian sources.

Local sources and eyewitnesses reported that Israeli artillery fired on the Al-Mufti school, which houses dozens of displaced families in the northern Nuseirat camp.

The ambulance crew and civil defense units quickly arrived at the targeted site, they said, adding flashlight beams and mobile phone lights pierced the darkness caused by a power outage as rescue workers worked to transport the injured.

Paramedics said the rescue team recovered 19 bodies and around 80 injured people, including children and women, and transported them to hospitals in central Gaza.

Also on Sunday, five children were killed by the Israeli army in the west of the Al-Shati camp of northern Gaza, the Palestinian official news agency WAFA reported.

The Israeli military has not yet commented on these attacks.

The ongoing Israeli offensive follows a Hamas attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, which left about 1,200 people dead and around 250 taken hostage. Gaza-based health authorities said on Sunday that the Palestinian death toll from the Israeli airstrikes has reached 42,227.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Expressions of Interest called for Tonkin Highway interchanges

Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements

The transformation of Tonkin Highway continues to progress, with an Expression of Interest released today for contractors to tender for upgrades planned south of Roe Highway.

The project will see grade-separated interchanges constructed at Hale Road and Welshpool Road, and the highway widened to a six-lane dual carriageway between Roe Highway and north of Kelvin Road, improving safety and reducing delays along the heavily congested route.

A Principal Shared Path will also be added to the eastern side of Tonkin Highway with shared path connections to adjacent communities.

Tonkin Highway is a key transport corridor connecting the city’s industrial centres including international ports, airports, intermodal rail freight terminals and major industrial lands. More than 50,000 vehicles use this section of Tonkin Highway every day, of which 13 per cent are heavy vehicles.

Due to this travel demand, congestion is high and growing, with Tonkin Highway projected to have the fifth-highest ‘delay cost’ of all major road corridors across Western Australia by 2031.

A Design and Construct Contract is expected to be awarded in mid-2025, with construction to start in late 2025.

The project is expected to support around 2,500 direct and indirect jobs during the construction phase.

The $366 million project is jointly funded by the Australian ($293 million) and State ($73 million) governments.

Development work is also ongoing for an interchange at Kelvin Road to be delivered in the future, following environmental approvals.

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

“Our Government is busy at work delivering on what WA needs for the future.

“Right across the State we’re investing in roads and infrastructure which will improve travel times and safety, and Tonkin Highway will be an important addition to that suite of upgrades.

“It will also create thousands of jobs in the local community and unlock training opportunities for Western Australians wanting to obtain new skills.”

Quotes attributed to WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

“The Tonkin Highway Interchanges project forms part of our broader Tonkin Highway Transformation program, to support long-term transport and infrastructure planning along Perth’s eastern road corridor.

“This stretch of Tonkin Highway is a notorious bottleneck, particularly the intersection with Welshpool Road which regularly rates as one of the worst for congestion.

“Tonkin Highway is a major freight route in the Perth metropolitan region, but with significant congestion, our Government is taking action to make this road smoother, safer and more efficient.

“This project will complement the Tonkin Gap Project, which recently reached completion, and is providing commuters with faster travel times and a safer journey.

“This important upgrade project will improve safety and the movement of freight and people by creating free-flowing traffic conditions.”

Quotes attributed to Federal Member for Burt Matt Keogh:

“I’ve been advocating for years on behalf of our community to make Tonkin Highway faster and safer, and I’m glad the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments are working together on this important project for Perth’s South Eastern suburbs.

“The congestion on Tonkin Highway has been increasing for years, these upgrades will make a massive difference for our growing community. I can’t wait to see works get underway.

“Only Labor is making the infrastructure investments we need to build a better Burt.”

Quotes attributed to State Member for Forrestfield Stephen Price:

“People in my community are heavily impacted by the congestion build up along this section of Tonkin Highway, which is why it’s critical we take action to make travel on this road smoother and safer for all.

“Whilst these changes will significantly improve this section of Tonkin Highway, they will cause some disruption from mid-2025, so we will be engaging closely with the community to inform them about likely impacts.”

MIL OSI News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman García’s Statement in Support of a Police Station at the Midway Armory

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

CHICAGO — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement in support of opening a new police station at the Midway Armory. The armory, located at 63rd and Long, has been closed and unused for seven years, and Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation to transfer the armory for $1 from the state to the city for a new police district station. Currently, this area is part of the Chicago Lawn (8th) Police District, which covers a vast area with the largest population in the city, but has the fewest officers per capita.

“I have lived on Chicago’s Southwest Side for more than 50 years, and I recognize the need to strengthen our public safety capacity and infrastructure. I have heard from my neighbors, constituents, business owners, and local elected officials in the area who call for the expansion of more public safety services including a potential police station to serve the greater regional need.

“As the population in our area has grown, the 8th District Police station needs additional support to improve safety and response times. We have a quarter of a million residents in a 23 square mile area, 84 schools, and many people passing through the district. In addition, the surrounding area of Midway Airport is also served by the Chicago Lawn 8th District Police. In March of this year, neighbors in the area overwhelmingly voted in support of the proposal for a new police district in a referendum. They have made their voices heard. They deserve to know that when they call 911 asking for help, the police will arrive promptly.

“I also understand that as plans are made for land use, it is imperative that site plans comply with federal aviation standards and regulations. As the Illinois’ Democratic House Member on the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, I value the insight of the expert agencies as we move forward and commit to work with all parties to reach the best solution. We have been in communication with the Federal Aviation Administration and understand the land use is permissible with continued collaboration and guidance.

“I urge Mayor Johnson and respective parties convene to arrive at an agreement that respects the will of the people and places the concerns and safety of our residents first while complying with federal, state, and local regulations.”

# # #

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Become cultural ambassadors of the country, urges Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Source: Government of India (2)

Become cultural ambassadors of the country, urges Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Union Culture and Tourism Minister addresses students at Viksit Bharat Ambassador-Yuva Connect programme at DY Patil Deemed To Be University

Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 4:30PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 10 October 2024

Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat urged the youth of the country to become cultural ambassadors of the country. Shri Shekhawat was speaking at the Viksit Bharat Ambassador Yuva Connect programme at DY Patil Deemed To Be University, in Navi Mumbai today. Shri Shekhawat said that India is a point of attraction for huge number of global tourists. In this connection, he asked the youth and student community to be the bearers and protectors of the country’s culture, traditions and values.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Shekhawat said youth of the country will be builders of Viksit Bharat and in the future, people living in a developed India will give today’s youth credit for bringing about Viksit Bharat. He urged them to fulfill the dreams of the country’s revered freedom fighters who sacrificed themselves for making India independent from colonial rulers. The Union Minister said that now is the time and opportunity to contribute towards nation building with the aim to bring about Viksit Bharat in 2047, which then will be a true homage to our freedom fighters.

Shri Shekhawat stated that the Central Government, under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, in the last years had adopted the strategy of ‘Reform, Perform, Transform’ that brought about a change in the lives of many citizens. This strategy led to initiatives for Banking the Unbanked and start of the world’s largest financial inclusion, Funding the unfunded, Public Distribution System, Skilling the Unskilled, One Nation One Market for Agricultural Produce and Insuring the uninsured. In the last ten years, the country has also seen development and transformation of infrastructure at a huge scale. The Government has also stressed on digitization and digital payments which has become a precedence for many other countries. The emphasis on Digital India also led to implementation of the biggest vaccination drive in the country during COVID-19. Stating these, Shri Shekhawat said, today India is the third largest economy in the world and the youth of the country have largely contributed towards taking the country forward.

Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Shekhawat said that self-sufficiency or ‘aatmanirbharta’ is the way forward. In this context, the Minister stated the thrust ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ has been felt in many sectors, like the defence manufacturing sector. Tejas aircrafts are highly sought after by many countries, he added. Shri Shekhawat said India’s success story has been brought about by speed and scale of development, zero tolerance towards corruption and traditional values of the country.

Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also interacted with the student achievers on the occasion. Dr. Vijay D. Patil, Chancellor and President of DY Patil Deemed To Be University, Dr. Shivani V. Patil, Pro Vice Chancellor and Vice President of DY Patil Deemed To Be University, Vice Chancellor Smt. Vandana Mishra and NYKS Director (Maharashtra and Goa) Shri Prakash Kumar Manure were present amongst the dignitaries on the occasion.

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PIB Mumbai | SC/ DR

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025

Category: Aviation

Ministries/ Departments of Government of India Participate in the Special Campaign 4.0 for Swachhata and Reducing PendencyMassive Participation from across the Country, with cleanliness campaigns made in 1.32 lakh offices spaces (42%) out of 3.16 lakh target in first ten days

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Support for North Carolina

Resources

Support for Florida

Support for South Carolina

Support for Georgia

Support for Virginia

Support for Tennessee

Voluntary Organizations

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds MP said:

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves MP said:

Microsoft UK CEO Clare Barclay said:

Make UK CEO Stephen Phipson said:

WPP CEO Mark Read said:

Airbus UK Chairman John Harrison said:

Notes to Editors:

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Become cultural ambassadors of the country, urges Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh ShekhawatUnion Culture and Tourism Minister addresses students at Viksit Bharat Ambassador-Yuva Connect programme at DY Patil Deemed To Be University

Ministries/ Departments of Government of India Participate in the Special Campaign 4.0 for Swachhata and Reducing Pendency

Massive Participation from across the Country, with cleanliness campaigns made in 1.32 lakh offices spaces (42%) out of 3.16 lakh target in first ten days

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly 2024 in New Delhi

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Become cultural ambassadors of the country, urges Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Union Culture and Tourism Minister addresses students at Viksit Bharat Ambassador-Yuva Connect programme at DY Patil Deemed To Be University