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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘Mann Ki Baat’ (119th Episode) Broadcast Date: 23.02.2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 23 FEB 2025 11:33AM by PIB Delhi

    My dear countrymen, Namaskar. Welcome to ‘Mann Ki Baat’. These days the Champions Trophy is going on and there is an atmosphere of cricket everywhere. All of us know very well what the thrill of a century in cricket is… But today I am not going to talk to you about cricket, albeit about the wonderful century that India has made in Space. Last month, the country witnessed the launch of ISRO’s 100th rocket. This is not just a number; it also reflects our resolve to touch new heights in Space Science every day. Our space journey had commenced in a rather modest way. There were challenges at every step, but our scientists kept moving forward, conquering them. With time, the list of our successes in this space odyssey kept rising. Be it the manufacture of launch vehicles, the successes of Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, Aditya L-1 or the unprecedented mission of sending 104 satellites into space at one go with a single rocket – the ambit of ISRO’s successes has been quite expansive. Over the last 10 years alone, around 460 satellites have been launched and this includes many satellites of other countries as well. Another important fact in recent years is that the participation of woman power is constantly on the rise among our team of Space Scientists. I am also very happy to see that today the Space Sector has become a favourite for our youth.

    Who would have thought a few years ago that the number of start-ups and private sector Space companies in this field would be in hundreds. For our youth who want to do something thrilling and exciting in life, the Space Sector is turning out to be an excellent option.             

    Friends, in a few days to come, we are going to celebrate ‘National Science Day’. The interest and passion of our children and youth in science matters a lot. I have an idea for this, which you can call ‘One Day as a Scientist’. That is, you should try to spend one day as a scientist. You can choose any day as per your convenience and choice. On that day, you must visit a research lab, planetarium or a Space Centre. This will enhance your curiosity about Science. Like Space and Science, there is another field in which India is rapidly carving out a robust identity – this field is AI i.e. Artificial Intelligence. Recently, I went to Paris to participate in a big AI conference. There, the world praised India’s progress in this sector. We are also getting to see examples of how people of our country are using AI today. For example, there is Thodasam Kailash ji, a teacher in a government school in Adilabad, Telangana. His interest in digital music is performing a very important task in saving many of our tribal languages. He has done wonders by composing a song in Kolami language with the help of AI tools. He is using AI to compose songs in many languages ​​other than Kolami. His tracks are being liked a lot by our tribal brothers and sisters on social media. Be it the Space Sector or AI, the ever-increasing participation of our youth is begetting a new revolution. The people of India are second to none in adopting and trying new technologies.

    My dear countrymen, next month, the 8th of March is ‘International Women’s Day’. This is a special occasion to salute our Nari Shakti. Devi Mahatmya says –

    Vidya: Samastaas-tava Devi Bheda:

    Streeya: Samasta: Sakala Jagatsu.

    That is, all the Vidyas are the expressions of the various forms of the Goddess and all the woman power of the world is also her reflection. In our culture, respect for daughters has been paramount. The MatriShakti of the country has also played a big role in our freedom struggle and the creation of the Constitution. I am sharing with all of you what Hansa Mehta ji had said while presenting our National Flag in the Constituent Assembly, in her own voice.

    # AUDIO BYTE:-

    It is in the fitness of things that this first flag that will fly over this August house, should be a gift from the women of India. We have donned the saffron colour, we have fought, suffered and sacrificed in the cause of our country’s freedom. We have today attained our goal. In presenting this symbol of our freedom, we once more offer our services to the nation. We pledge ourselves to work for a great India, for building up a nation that will be a nation among nations. We pledge ourselves for working for a greater cause to maintain the freedom we have attained. 

    Friends, Hansa Mehta ji had brought to the fore the contribution of women from all over the country, right from the making of our National Flag to sacrificing their lives for its sake. She was of the belief that the saffron colour in our tricolour also reflects this sentiment. She had expressed confidence that our woman power would make its valuable contribution in making India strong and prosperous; Today her words are proving to be true. If you observe at any field, you will find how extensive the contribution of women is. Friends, this time on Women’s Day I am going to embark upon an initiative for a day, which will be dedicated to our Nari-Shakti. On this special occasion, I am going to hand over my social media accounts like X, Instagram to some inspiring ladies of the country. Women who have achieved success in myriad fields; who have innovated and created a unique identity for themselves in various fields. On the 8th of March, they will share their work and experiences with the countrymen. The platform might be mine, but it will be about their experiences, their challenges and their achievements. If you want to avail of this opportunity, become a part of this experiment through the special Forum created on NamoApp and share your message with the whole world through my X and Instagram accounts. So come… this time on Women’s Day, let us all celebrate, honour and salute the indomitable power of women.

    My dear countrymen, many of you would have enjoyed the thrill of the National Games in Uttarakhand. There, more than 11,000 athletes from all over the country performed brilliantly. This event presented a new Swaroop of Devbhoomi. Uttarakhand is now emerging as a strong sporting force in the country. The players of Uttarakhand too performed wonderfully. This time Uttarakhand finished 7th – this is the power of sports, which transforms individuals and communities as well as the entire State. It inspires future generations and also promotes a culture of excellence. Friends, today some memorable performances in these games are being discussed all over the country. My heartiest congratulations to the Services team which won the maximum number of gold medals in these games. I also appreciate every player who participated in the National Games. Many of our players are the contribution of the Khelo India campaign. Be it Sawan Barwal of Himachal Pradesh, Kiran Mhatre & Tejas Shirse of Maharashtra or Jyoti Yaraji of Andhra Pradesh, all of them have given new hope to the country. Javelin thrower Sachin Yadav of Uttar Pradesh, high jumper Pooja of Haryana and swimmer Dhinidhi Desindhu of Karnataka won the hearts of the countrymen. They surprised everyone by setting three new national records. The number of teenage champions in this year’s National Games is astonishing. 15-year-old shooter Gavin Antony, 16-year-old hammer thrower Anushka Yadav, from UP and 19-year-old pole vaulter Dev Kumar Meena from Madhya Pradesh have proved that India’s sporting future lies in the hands of a very talented generation. The National Games held in Uttarakhand also showed that those who never accept defeat, definitely win. No one becomes a champion amid comfort. I am happy that with the determination and discipline of our young athletes, India is rapidly progressing towards becoming a global sporting powerhouse.

    My dear countrymen, during the opening of the National Games in Dehradun, I raised a very important topic, which has started a new discussion in the country – this topic is ‘obesity’. To become a fit and healthy nation, we will certainly have to deal with the problem of obesity. According to a study, one in every eight people today is troubled by the problem of obesity. Cases of obesity have doubled in the past years, but, what is even more worrying is that the problem of obesity has increased fourfold even among children. WHO data shows that in 2022, about 250 crore people around the world were overweight, that is, they had more weight than required. These statistics are very serious and force all of us to think why this is happening. Excess weight or obesity gives rise to many kinds of problems and diseases. We can together deal with this challenge with minor efforts. For example, one method I suggested was “reducing the consumption of edible oil by ten percent (10%)”. Decide that you will use 10% less oil every month. You can decide that while buying oil for cooking, you will buy 10% less oil. This will be an important step towards reducing obesity. Today, in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I also want to share some special messages on this topic with you. Let us begin with Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra, who has successfully overcome obesity:

    # AUDIO BYTE:-

    Namaskar everyone. I, Neeraj Chopra want to tell you all today that our honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has discussed obesity in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ this time, which is a very important issue for our country. And I somehow relate to this thing with myself too, because when I started going to the ground, I was also quite overweight at that time and when I started training and started eating well, my health improved a lot and after that when I became a professional athlete, I got a lot of help in that too. And I would also like to tell that parents should also play some outdoor sport or the other and take their children along and create a good healthy lifestyle, eat well and give your body an hour or however much time you can in a day for exercise. And I would like to add one more thing, recently our Prime Minister had said that the oil used in food should be reduced by upto 10%, because many times we eat a lot of fried food items which have a huge impact on obesity. So I would like to tell everyone to avoid these things and take care of their health. This is just what I request you and together we will uplift our country, thank you.

    Neeraj ji, I am very grateful to you. Renowned athlete Nikhat Zareen ji has also expressed her views on this topic:

    # AUDIO BYTE:-

    Hi, my name is Nikhat Zareen and I am two times world boxing champion. As our Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji has mentioned about Obesity in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ and I think it’s a national concern, we should be serious about our health because obesity is spreading so fast in our India, we should stop it and we should try to follow a healthy lifestyle as much as possible. Being an athlete myself, I try to follow a healthy diet because if by mistake I take an unhealthy diet or eat oily things, it impacts my performance and I get tired quickly in the ring and I try to use as little as possible things like edible oil and instead follow a healthy diet and do daily physical activity due to which I always remain fit. And I think common people like us, who go to work daily, I think everyone should be serious about health and do some daily physical activity due to which we stay away from diseases like heart attack and cancer and keep ourselves fit ‘because if we are fit then India is fit’.                                  

    Nikhat ji has really made some good points. Let us now listen to what Dr. Devi Shetty ji has to say. As all of you know, he is a very distinguished doctor, who is continuously working on this subject:

    # AUDIO BYTE:-

    I would like to thank our Honourable Prime Minister for creating an awareness about obesity in his most popular ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme. Obesity today is not a cosmetic problem; it is a very serious medical problem. Majority of the youngsters in India today are obese. The main cause of obesity today is poor quality of food intake especially excess intake of carbohydrates that is rice, chapatti and sugar and of course large consumption of oil. Obesity leads to major medical problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, fatty liver and many other complications. So my advice to all the youngsters… start exercising control your diet and be very very active and watch your weight. Once again I would like to wish all of you a very very happy healthy future, Good Luck and God Bless.                             

    Friends, using less oil in food and dealing with obesity is not just a personal choice but also our responsibility towards the family. Excessive use of oil in food can cause many diseases like heart disease, diabetes and hypertension. By making small changes in our food habits, we can make our future stronger, fitter and disease-free. Therefore, without delay, we must increase our efforts in this direction and implement it in our lives. We can all do this together in a very playful & effective way. For example, today after this episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I will request and challenge 10 people if they can reduce oil in their food by 10%. And I will also urge them to pass on the same challenge to 10 new people. I am sure that this will help a lot in fighting obesity.                                                                                                   

    Friends, do you know what the similarity between the Asiatic Lion, Hangul, Pygmy Hog and Lion-tailed Macaque is? The answer is that all of these are not found anywhere else in the world… they are found only in our country. Indeed, we have a very vibrant eco-system of flora and fauna. And these wild animals are deeply embedded in our history and culture. Many animals are also observed as the vehicles of our Gods and Goddesses. Many tribes in central India worship Bagheshwar. There is a tradition of worshipping Waghoba in Maharashtra. Lord Ayyappa also has a very deep connection with the tiger. Bonbibi, whose Vaahan is the tiger, is worshipped in Sundarbans. We have many cultural dances like Huli Vesha of Karnataka, Pooli of Tamil Nadu and Pulikali of Kerala, which are associated with nature and wildlife. I would also like to thank my tribal brothers and sisters, because they actively participate in work related to wildlife protection. The population of tigers has risen continuously in Karnataka’s BRT Tiger Reserve. A lot of credit for this goes to the Soliga tribe, who worship the tiger. Owing to them, there is almost no man-animal conflict in this area. In Gujarat as well, people have contributed significantly in the protection and conservation of Asiatic Lions in Gir. They have shown the world what co-existence with nature means. Friends, on account of these efforts, the population of tigers, leopards, Asiatic Lions, Rhinos and Barasingha has increased rapidly in the last few years. And it is also worth noting how beautiful the diversity of wildlife in India is. Asiatic Lions are found in the western part of the country, while the habitat of ​​Tigers is East, Central and South India. Rhinos are found in the Northeast. Every part of India is not only sensitive towards nature, but is also committed to wild life protection. I have been told about Anuradha Rao ji, many generations of whom have been associated with Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Anuradha ji had dedicated herself to animal welfare at an early age. For three decades, she has made the protection of deer and peacocks her mission. People here call her ‘Deer Woman’. We will celebrate World Wildlife Day at the beginning of next month. I urge you to encourage people associated with wildlife protection. It is a matter of great satisfaction for me that many start-ups have also emerged in this field.                                                      Friends, this is the season of Board Exams. I wish my young friends, i.e., Exam Warriors, the best of luck for their exams. Appear for your papers without any stress and with a completely positive spirit. Every year in ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’, we discuss various topics related to exams with our Exam Warriors. I am happy that this programme is now taking an institutional form… it is getting institutionalized. Many New experts are also joining it. This year, we tried to conduct ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ in a new format.  Along with the experts, eight different episodes were also included. We covered topics ranging from Overall Exams to Health Care and Mental Health as well as food and nutrition. Past toppers also shared their thoughts and experiences with everyone. Many youngsters, their parents and teachers have written letters to me on this. They have told me that they liked this format very much because every topic was discussed in detail. Our young friends have watched these episodes in large numbers on Instagram too. Many of you also liked the fact that this program was organized in Sundar Nursery, Delhi. Those of our young friends who have not been able to watch these episodes of ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ till now, must watch them. All these episodes are available on NaMoApp. Once again, my message to our Exam Warriors is “Be happy and stress free”.                                                                           

    My dear friends, that’s all for me in this episode of Mann Ki Baat. Next month we will again conduct ‘Mann Ki Baat’ together with new topics. Keep sending me your letters, your messages. Stay healthy, stay happy. Thank you very much. Namaskar.

    ****

    MJPS/ST/RT/ZK

    (Release ID: 2105618) Visitor Counter : 7

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Minister Hardeep Singh Puri Highlights Delhi University’s Legacy at Lit Fest Panel Discussion

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 22 FEB 2025 8:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, participated in a panel discussion on the sidelines of Delhi University’s Lit Fest today, where he spoke about the evolution of Delhi University over the years and its significant contributions to academia and society. The panel included distinguished personalities such as Smt Lakshmi Puri, acclaimed author of the best-seller “Swallowing the Sun”, Shri Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, and Shri Raian Karanjawala, managing partner at Karanjawala & Co.

    During the discussion, Shri Puri elaborated on the rich legacy of Delhi University, underscoring how its faculty, students, and administrators have shaped it into one of India’s premier educational institutions. He emphasized that universities must continually adapt to new developments in fields such as artificial intelligence and machine learning while maintaining their traditional academic excellence.

    A key highlight of the discussion was the book “Delhi University – Celebrating 100 Glorious Years”, edited by Shri Puri himself. The anthology brings together essays from eminent scholars and alumni, capturing the university’s vibrant culture and its profound influence on generations of students. The book includes a foreword by legendary actor Shri Amitabh Bachchan, whose reflections add to the narrative of the institution’s illustrious history.

    Shri Puri shared insights into the diverse contributions featured in the book, recounting how various essayists provided anecdotal yet scholarly perspectives on their experiences at Delhi University. He noted that these essays collectively trace the institution’s journey over the past century, showcasing its role in nurturing leaders across various fields, including literature, law, and governance.

    He also highlighted the inspiring stories of notable alumni, ranging from prominent literary figures to influential policymakers. He mentioned contributions from authors, journalists, and legal experts, each offering unique perspectives on the university’s influence on their personal and professional growth.

    Shri Puri further announced that the proceeds from the book’s sales would be directed towards a charitable cause, encouraging alumni and well-wishers to support the initiative.

    Speaking during the discussion, Smt. Lakshmi Puri highlighted how Delhi University, particularly Lady Shri Ram College, became a symbol of feminism and gender empowerment. She spoke about how DU played a crucial role in challenging patriarchal norms and fostering independent thinking among women. The environment at LSR encouraged students (especially women) to break societal constraints, embrace modernity, and cultivate a strong sense of self-reliance.

    She also reflected on how DU in the 1970s was influenced by the second wave of feminism that was sweeping across Europe and the United States. Despite the absence of social media and instant connectivity, ideas of gender equality, women’s rights, and self-empowerment permeated university spaces, creating an intellectual awakening among students. She noted how DU became a hub for feminist thought, redefining the role of women in society and opening doors to leadership opportunities that were previously inaccessible.

    Shri Sanjeev Sanyal provided a historical overview of DU’s establishment in 1922 and its journey in becoming a premier institution.

    Shri Rajan Karanjawala recounted his days at SRCC and his active involvement in student politics. He reflected on the electrifying atmosphere of DU during the Emergency period, when student activism played a crucial role in resisting authoritarianism.

    The panel discussion, held at Shri Ram College of Commerce, saw enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, and literature enthusiasts. The interactive session allowed students to engage with the panelists, discussing issues ranging from academic excellence to policy reforms and the need for preserving DU’s intellectual legacy.

    The DU Lit Fest 2025, an annual celebration of literature, academia, and discourse, continues to be a vibrant platform for intellectual engagement. Shri Hardeep Singh Puri’s reflections on Delhi University’s enduring legacy set the stage for a deeper appreciation of the institution’s role in shaping India’s socio-political landscape.

    *****

    MONIKA

    (Release ID: 2105563) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah addresses the valedictory function of Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of Janata Sahakari Bank Limited in Pune, Maharashtra

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah addresses the valedictory function of Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of Janata Sahakari Bank Limited in Pune, Maharashtra

    Revered Shri Moropant Pingale, by establishing Janata Sahakari Bank, sowed a seed that has now grown into a banyan tree, connecting 10 lakh people

    Janata Sahakari Bank has realised the concept of ‘big bank for small people’

    Today, the bank’s deposits exceed ₹9,600 crore, which reflects the trust people have in the bank

    The only way to develop one’s family and contribute to the country’s progress without capital is through cooperation

    In the past 3 years, the Modi government has worked on making the cooperative model marketable and has provided direction for cooperative development

    The concept of setting up a cooperative clearing house for the first time in the country is set to be completed within the next 2 years

    After the formation of the umbrella organization, the clearing of cooperative banks located in any part of the country will be done through cooperative banks themselves

    Posted On: 22 FEB 2025 7:09PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addressed the valedictory function of Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Janata Sahakari Bank Limited in Pune Maharashtra today. Union Minister of State for Cooperation, Shri Murlidhar Mohol and several other dignitaries including the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers of the state, Shri Eknath Shinde and Shri Ajit Pawar were present, on the occasion.

    In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that the trust earned by Janata Sahakari Bank is a matter of pride for all of us. He said that Janata Sahakari Bank was established by revered Shri Moropant Pingale, a prominent thinker and renowned RSS worker, who lived a selfless life and never backed out of any challenge. Shri Shah said that the seed sown by Shri Moropant in the form of establishment of this bank has now grown into a huge banyan tree, connecting 10 lakh people. He said that it is a testament of the strength and good conduct of the organization. He further stated that Janata Sahakari Bank has sent a positive message across the country, showing that there is no limit for any institution’s progress when it works with transparency, dedication, and integrity.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has made two resolutions before the nation – to make India a fully developed nation by 2047 and to make the country a 5 trillion-dollar economy by 2027. He mentioned that without the development of the cooperative sector, these resolutions will remain incomplete. He emphasized that if the development of every individual and prosperity in every home do not take place, then these two resolutions could remain unfulfilled. Shri Shah said that providing work to every person according to their abilities and connecting them with the country’s development to make every family prosperous is only possible through a cooperative movement.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the mantra of the Ministry of Cooperation given by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is ‘Sahakar se Samriddhi’. He said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has provided many basic facilities tocrores of people of the country during the last 10 years. He further stated that now these people want to contribute for the development of the country. He emphasized that the only way to develop one’s family and contribute to the country’s progress without capital is through cooperation. Shri Shah remarked that the essence of cooperation is pooling together small amounts of capital to achieve something large. He highlighted that Janata Sahakari Bank is a prime example of this, as it has made the concept of ‘big bank for small people’.

    The Union Minister of Cooperation said that the Modi government has given specialimpetus to the cooperative movement in the last 3 years. He said that India’s model of cooperatives has been made marketable, and the Modi Government is bringing the Cooperative University Bill to empower our youth with cooperative education. He also stated that the government wants to integrate cooperative innovation and make it a driving force for the country’s development. He added Prime Minister Modihas played a key role in providing the right direction to cooperative development.

    Shri Amit Shah said that embracing the newer technologies by the cooperatives is imperative for continued growth. He said that there are a total of 1465 Urban Cooperative Banks in the country out of which 460 are in Maharashtra alone. He said that an umbrella organization for Urban Cooperative Banks, National Urban Co-operative Finance and Development Corporation (NUCFDC), was under consideration for a long time and now the work has been completed to mobilize an amount of Rs. 300 crore for this organization. Shri Shah said that this umbrella organization will be able to provide all kinds of support to the cooperative banks. He said that for the first time, a clearing house for Cooperative Banks has been envisaged in the country which is set to be completed in the next 2 years.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the Ministry of Cooperation has taken several steps to enhance the business of urban cooperative banks. He mentioned that Aadhaar-enabled payment system has been opened for cooperative banks, the limits for gold loans and housing loans have been enhanced, and a provisionfor one-time loan settlement has been introducedfor cooperative banks. He further added that after the formation of an umbrella organization, clearing for any cooperative bank located anywhere in the country will be done through cooperative banks themselves. Shri Shah also stated that to address the growing competition from nationalized banks, small financing banks, and NBFCs, the Government is setting up a monitoring committee to strengthen governance and incorporate technological innovations in Cooperative Banks.

    Shri Amit Shah said that after its establishment in 1949, Janata Sahakari Bank became a scheduled cooperative bank in 1988, adopted core banking in 2005, became a multi-state scheduled cooperative bank in 2012, and also got the honor of starting the country’s first cooperative demat institution. He mentioned that with 71 branches, 2 extension counters, 1,75,000 members, and over 10 lakh satisfied customers, this is not just a bank, but a large family. He stated that today, the bank’s deposit exceeds ₹9,600 crore, which reflects the trust people have in the bank. Shri Shah also highlighted that Janata Sahakari Bank has never backed out, be it in terms of social service, during Latur earthquake, or the Kolhapur-Sangli floods, or the COVID-19 pandemic.

    *****

    RK/VV/ASH/PS

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    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New Silo and Rapid Loading System at SECL’s Dipka Megaproject Becomes Operational

    Source: Government of India

    New Silo and Rapid Loading System at SECL’s Dipka Megaproject Becomes Operational

    SECL’s Push for Eco-Friendly Coal Evacuation Under First Mile Connectivity

    Posted On: 22 FEB 2025 3:36PM by PIB Delhi

    Coal India subsidiary South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), under the guidance of the Ministry of Coal, is accelerating efforts to enhance safe and sustainable coal evacuation from its mines through First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects.

    In a significant milestone, SECL’s Dipka Megaproject successfully commenced operations by loading the first coal rake from its newly built Rapid Loading System and Silos 3 & 4 on 21st February 2025, marking a major step in boosting eco-friendly and efficient coal transportation.

    The newly commissioned Dipka CHP-Silo FMC project has an annual coal evacuation capacity of 25 million tons, significantly improving the dispatch efficiency of the megaproject.

    Before the commissioning of the new silo, Dipka relied on a Merry-Go-Round (MGR) dispatch system with a capacity of 15 MTPA.

    Aerial view of Silo 3 of Dipka CHP-Silo FMC project

    With the commissioning of Silo 3 & 4, Dipka’s total coal dispatch capacity has now surged to 40 million tons per annum, effectively aligning transportation infrastructure with production levels.

    Under the guidance of the Ministry of Coal, SECL has prioritised the development of FMC infra under the PM Gatishakti Plan. SECL has undertaken 17 First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects with a cumulative capacity of 233 MTPA.

    Out of these, 9 projects with a total capacity of 151 MTPA have already been commissioned demonstrating the company’s commitment to modernizing coal transportation. Rest 8 FMC projects of 82 MTPA capacity are under various phases of development with a target to commission them in the next 2-3 years. 

    FMC is widely recognized as an efficient and eco-friendly coal transportation mode. The implementation of FMC infrastructure at Dipka brings multiple benefits:

    • Improved efficiency and accurate loading, minimizing both underloading and overloading of coal in rakes.
    • Faster loading times leading to shorter turnaround time and improving rake availability.
    • Enhanced coal quality, minimizing contamination and losses.
    • Reduced dependence on road transport, leading to savings on diesel expenses and a cleaner environment.

    The commissioning of these new silos represents a win-win situation for SECL, Indian Railways, and coal consumers by streamlining logistics, optimizing coal movement, and reducing environmental impact.

    ****

    Shuhaib T

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Awards Planetary Defense Space Telescope Launch Services Contract

    Source: NASA

    NASA has selected SpaceX of Starbase, Texas, to provide launch services for the Near-Earth Object (NEO) Surveyor mission, which will detect and observe asteroids and comets that could potentially pose an impact threat to Earth.
    The firm fixed price launch service task order is being awarded under the indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity NASA Launch Services II contract. The total cost to NASA for the launch service is approximately $100 million, which includes the launch service and other mission related costs. The NEO Surveyor mission is targeted to launch no earlier than September 2027 on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Florida.
    The NEO Surveyor mission consists of a single scientific instrument: an almost 20-inch (50-centimeter) diameter telescope that will operate in two heat-sensing infrared wavelengths. It will be capable of detecting both bright and dark asteroids, the latter being the most difficult type to find with existing assets. The space telescope is designed to help advance NASA’s planetary defense efforts to discover and characterize most of the potentially hazardous asteroids and comets that come within 30 million miles of Earth’s orbit. These are collectively known as near-Earth objects, or NEOs.
    The mission will carry out a five-year baseline survey to find at least two-thirds of the unknown NEOs larger than 140 meters (460 feet). These are the objects large enough to cause major regional damage in the event of an Earth impact. By using two heat-sensitive infrared imaging channels, the telescope can also make more accurate measurements of the sizes of NEOs and gain information about their composition, shapes, rotational states, and orbits.
    The mission is tasked by NASA’s Planetary Science Division within the agency’s Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Program oversight is provided by NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office, which was established in 2016 to manage the agency’s ongoing efforts in planetary defense. NASA’s Planetary Missions Program Office at the agency’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, provides program management for NEO Surveyor. The project is being developed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.
    Multiple aerospace and engineering companies are contracted to build the spacecraft and its instrumentation, including BAE Systems SMS (Space & Mission Systems), Space Dynamics Laboratory, and Teledyne. The Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics at the University of Colorado, Boulder, will support operations, and the Infrared Processing and Analysis Center at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Pasadena, California, is responsible for processing survey data and producing the mission’s data products. Caltech manages JPL for NASA. Mission team leadership includes the University of California, Los Angeles. NASA’s Launch Services Program at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida is responsible for managing the launch service.
    For more information about NEO Surveyor, visit:

    NEO Surveyor

    -end-
    Tiernan Doyle / Joshua FinchHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600 / 202-358-1100tiernan.doyle@nasa.gov / joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov
    Patti BiellingKennedy Space Center, Florida321-501-7575patricia.a.bielling@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kayco Issues an Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Limited Units of Glicks Dark Chocolate Conettos

    Source: US Food and Drug Administration

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    FDA Publish Date:
    Product Type:
    Food & Beverages
    Allergens
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description

    Undeclared milk allergen

    Company Name:
    Kayco
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)

    Glicks

    Product Description:

    Product Description

    Dark Chocolate Conettos

    Company Announcement

    Bayonne, NJ. (February 21st, 2025) – Kayco, a Bayonne NJ company is recalling their Glicks Dark Chocolate Conettos because it may contain undeclared milk. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk, run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

    The Glicks Dark Chocolate Conettos were distributed to stores nationwide, predominately located in the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut regions, during the weeks of October 13th, 2024 through February 14th, 2025. Some units were sold on Amazon.com.

    This recall was initiated after the company was notified by their Quality Control Department that a limited number of bags labeled as “Dark Chocolate Conettos” contained Milk Chocolate Conettos, which contains milk allergen that is not declared on the label.

    Only packages bearing the Lot Code below, may potentially have milk Conettos in the “darkchocolate Conettos” bag.

    UPC Code 

    Description 

    Lot Code 

    840762044535 Case UPC
    is 10840762044549

    Glicks Dark Chocolate Conettos 2.47 oz

    02092024

    The company has received no reports of illness or injury to date.

    We immediately informed all retailers who had purchased this lot code about this recall and instructed them to inspect their inventory or remove any potential affected product on their shelves.

    Consumers who may have purchased this product are advised to inspect their product for the affected Lot Code 02092024. Consumers may return the product for credit or refund. If a consumer experiences an allergic reaction they are urged to report to a medical provider.

    Consumers who have questions may contact us at Customercare@kayco.com or by phone at 718-369-4600 Monday through Friday 9 AM to 5PM Eastern Time.

    This recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.

    Company Contact Information

    Product Photos

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM to visit Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Assam from 23rd to 25th February

    Source: Government of India (2)

    PM to visit Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Assam from 23rd to 25th February

    PM to lay the foundation stone of Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute in Chattarpur, MP

    PM to inaugurate the Global Investors Summit 2025 in Bhopal, MP

    PM to inaugurate and dedicate to the nation various development projects and release the 19th instalment of PM KISAN in Bhagalpur, Bihar

    PM to inaugurate Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025 in Guwahati, Assam

    PM to attend the Jhumoir Binandini (Mega Jhumoir) 2025 programme in Guwahati, Assam

    Posted On: 22 FEB 2025 2:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will visit Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Assam from 23rd to 25th February. On 23rd February, he will travel to Chhatarpur District in Madhya Pradesh and at around 2 PM, he will lay the foundation stone of Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute. On 24th February, at around 10 AM, Prime Minister will inaugurate the Global Investors Summit 2025 in Bhopal. Thereafter, he will travel to Bhagalpur in Bihar and at around 2:15 PM, he will release the 19th instalment of PM KISAN scheme and also inaugurate and dedicate to the nation various development projects in Bihar. Further he will travel to Guwahati and at around 6 PM, he will attend the Jhumoir Binandini (Mega Jhumoir) 2025 programme. On 25th February, at around 10:45 AM, Prime Minister will inaugurate the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025 in Guwahati.

    PM in Madhya Pradesh

    Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute in Garha village, Chhatarpur district. Ensuring better healthcare services for people from all walks of life, the Cancer hospital, worth over Rs 200 crore will offer free treatment to underprivileged cancer patients and will be equipped with state-of-the-art machines and have specialist doctors.

    Prime Minister will also inaugurate the two-day Global Investors Summit (GIS) 2025 in Bhopal. Serving as an important platform to establish Madhya Pradesh as a global investment hub, the GIS will include departmental summits; specialized sessions on Pharma and Medical Devices, Transport and Logistics, Industry, Skill Development, Tourism and MSMEs among others. It will also include international sessions like the Global South countries conference, Latin America and Caribbean session and special sessions for key partner countries.

    Three major industrial exhibitions will be held during the Summit. The Auto Show will showcase Madhya Pradesh’s automotive capabilities and future mobility solutions. The Textile and Fashion Expo will highlight the state’s expertise in both traditional and modern textile manufacturing. The “One District-One Product” (ODOP) Village will showcase the state’s unique craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

    Representatives from over 60 countries, officials from various international organizations, over 300 prominent Industry leaders from India and policymakers among others will participate in the Summit.

    PM in Bihar

    Prime Minister has been committed towards ensuring farmer welfare. In line with this, several key initiatives will be undertaken by him at Bhagalpur. He will release the 19th instalment of PM KISAN at Bhagalpur. Over 9.7 crore farmers across the country will receive direct financial benefits amounting to more than Rs 21,500 crore.

    A significant focus of the Prime Minister has been on ensuring that farmers are able to get better remuneration for their produce. With this in mind, on 29th February, 2020, he launched the Central Sector Scheme for Formation and Promotion of 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPO), which help farmers collectively market and produce their agricultural products. Within five years, this commitment of Prime Minister to the farmers has been fulfilled, with him marking the milestone of the formation of the 10,000th FPO in the country during the programme.

    Prime Minister will inaugurate the Centre of Excellence for Indigenous Breeds in Motihari, built under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission. Its major objectives include introduction of cutting edge IVF technology, production of elite animals of indigenous breeds for further propagation, and training of farmers and professionals in modern reproductive technology. He will also inaugurate the Milk Product Plant in Barauni that aims to create an organized market for 3 lakh milk producers.

    In line with his commitment to boost connectivity and infrastructure, Prime Minister will also dedicate to the nation the doubling of Warisaliganj – Nawada – Tilaiya rail section worth over Rs 526 crore and Ismailpur – Rafiganj Road Over Bridge.

    PM in Assam

    Prime Minister will attend the Jhumoir Binandini (Mega Jhumoir) 2025, a spectacular cultural extravaganza with 8,000 performers participating in the Jhumoir dance, a folk dance of Assam Tea Tribe and Adivasi Communities of Assam that embodies the spirit of inclusivity, unity and cultural pride, and symbolises Assam’s syncretic cultural mélange. The Mega Jhumoir event symbolises 200 years of the tea industry, and also 200 years of industrialisation in Assam.

    PM will also inaugurate the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025 in Guwahati, to be held from 25th to 26th February. It will include an inaugural Session, seven ministerial sessions and 14 thematic sessions. It will also include a comprehensive exhibition illustrating the state’s economic landscape, with a focus on its industrial evolution, global trade partnerships, booming industries, and the vibrant MSME sector, featuring over 240 exhibitors.

    Various international organisations, global leaders and investors, policymakers, industry experts, startups, and students among others will participate in the Summit.

     

    ***

    MJPS/VJ

    (Release ID: 2105467) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Centre secures ₹ 1.56 Crore Relief for Aspirants & Students in Education Sector through Refunds from Coaching Centres

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Centre secures ₹ 1.56 Crore Relief for Aspirants & Students in Education Sector through Refunds from Coaching Centres

    More than 600 aspirants and students from Civil Services, Engineering Course and other programmes successfully claimed refunds from Coaching Centres by filing grievances through the National Consumer Helpline (NCH)

    The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has directed Coaching Centres to adopt a student-focused approach and put an end to the unfair practice of denying refund claims from aspirants and students

    Posted On: 22 FEB 2025 1:55PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), Government of India has successfully secured refunds amounting to ₹1.56 crore for over 600 aspirants and students in the education sector. These students, enrolled in coaching centres for Civil Services, Engineering Course and other programmes, were previously denied rightful refunds despite following the terms and conditions set forth by the coaching institutes.

    The relief was made possible through grievances filed by the students via the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), which facilitated a streamlined process for dispute resolution. The swift action by the Department has helped students receive compensation for unfulfilled services, late classes, or cancelled courses, ensuring they do not bear the financial burden of unfair business practices.

    In its decisive direction, Department of Consumer Affairs has instructed all coaching centres to adopt a student-centric approach, mandating clear, transparent refund policies to protect student’s financial interests. The Department has also made it clear that the unjust practice of denying legitimate refund claims will no longer be tolerated, urging educational institutions to uphold consumer rights.

    The Department of Consumer Affairs, through its proactive efforts, has also committed to strengthening the complaint redressal mechanism and educating students on their consumer rights, empowering them to take action in case of unfair treatment.

    The National Consumer Helpline has proven to be a vital resource in empowering students and aspirants in their quest for justice. Many students have shared their positive experience, highlighting how the NCH assisted them in navigating the complexities of refund claims and providing timely resolutions.

    Through the platform, individuals were able to resolve issues without the need for protracted legal battles, saving time and energy while ensuring fair outcomes. By resolving grievances at the pre-litigation stage, NCH has helped prevent the escalation of disputes, offering an effective and accessible alternative to formal legal proceedings. This service has proven especially beneficial for students, who now have a dependable avenue to safeguard their interests.

    As part of the initiative, the DoCA continues to advocate for student rights and encourages all students facing similar issues to use the National Consumer Helpline platform for quick resolution. The Department also urges Coaching Centres to adhere to the guidelines set forth, ensuring transparency, accountability, and a student-friendly approach.

     

    Positive Outcomes in Grievance Redressal Mechanism

    1. A consumer had taken hostel accommodation for uninterrupted studies but encountered multiple deficiencies in the services provided, which clearly violated the policy and constituted an unfair trade practice. With the intervention of the National Consumer Helpline, the consumer successfully received a refund. The consumer reviewed the outcome, stating, “The complaint was addressed by the company and a fair solution is given by the company.” Chennai, Tamil Nadu

     

    1. A consumer enrolled in a Psychology workshop after being pressured by the company’s claim that only a few seats were left. After making the payment, the consumer was denied a seat and subsequently denied a refund. However, following intervention by the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), the consumer’s refund was successfully facilitated. The consumer shared their feedback, stating, “The company has refunded the full amount.”- Rajkot, Gujarat

     

    1. A JEE aspirant purchased a course, but the institute denied the purchase despite the consumer providing proof of payment. The consumer faced an unfair trade practice and registered a grievance with the National Consumer Helpline (NCH). With NCH’s intervention, the refund was successfully processed, and the consumer expressed gratitude, stating, “Refund RECEIVED, Thank You.”- Jamshedpur, Jharkhand

     

    1. A consumer joined a campus but left due to services not aligning with the promised policies. When the institute denied a refund, the consumer approached the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), which successfully facilitated the refund. The consumer shared their positive experience, saying, “Thanks… I get refund from the institute with the help of the consumer portal, Most effective initiative from govt. side to help consumers.”- Vellore, Tamil Nadu
    1. A student enrolled for a GATE course with the promise of a full refund within 15 days. However, the institute failed to process the refund. After registering a grievance with the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), the refund was successfully facilitated within just 4 days. The student shared their experience, saying, “Got refund on 20/10/2023.”- Kota, Rajasthan

     

    1. A consumer enrolled his daughter for a course from 5th to 7th class with a 14-day observation period. However, the course did not meet expectations, and when the consumer demanded a refund, the institute denied the request. After approaching the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), the refund was successfully granted. The consumer expressed gratitude, saying, “Thanks for everything.”- Korba, Chhattisgarh

     

    1. A consumer enrolled in a civil services course but, due to unavoidable circumstances, requested a refund of the fees paid. The coaching institute initially denied the request. However, with the intervention of the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), the refund was successfully facilitated. The consumer expressed satisfaction, saying, “Problem addressed successfully.”- Aurangabad, Maharashtra

     

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    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

    (Release ID: 2105466) Visitor Counter : 51

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California to launch first-in-the-nation digital democracy effort to improve public engagement

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 23, 2025

    Pilot program to help LA recover and rebuild together

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom will debut a first-in-the-nation deliberative democracy program to help community members directly influence and inform the ongoing Los Angeles firestorm rebuilding and recovery. Engaged California is a new program that will bring together community voices and viewpoints supported by digital platforms — empowering Californians to help inform policy decisions and program design. 

    LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom today announced California’s upcoming launch of a bold, innovative program that will bring Californians together to engage, interact, and share ideas to help shape government services and collectively create policy solutions. Engaged California is a program to support community conversations about important topics using digital platforms. With this new initiative, the state will lead the nation in deliberative democracy, better ensuring decisions are centered on the people’s voices. As part of California’s all-in response to the firestorm, this pilot program is being launched now for survivors and the greater Los Angeles community. 

    “Government works better when we build it together – and this means making it easier for everyone to be involved.  After years of development, I am excited to launch this new pilot program to help create a town hall for the modern era – where Californians share their perspectives, concerns, and ideas geared toward finding real solutions. We’re starting this effort by more directly involving Californians in the LA firestorm response and recovery. As we recover, reimagine, and rebuild Los Angeles, we will do it together.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    How Engaged California works

    In California, we know a strong democracy takes work. We build it through practices that spark conversation and solve problems. With Engaged California, we will better empower Californians to have honest, respectful discussions on important topics to help create more responsive and people-driven policies and programs. The program is modeled after successful digital democracy efforts in Taiwan, which used digital tools to help increase consensus-building and build governance powered by the people.

    The foundation of the program will encourage participation from Californians across all walks of life to interact with each other to find common ground and help set priorities for state government action. The program will help people to directly voice their concerns and ideas, and improve policymakers’ and administrators’ efforts to listen to Californians outside of election cycles and to be more responsive to their concerns.

    “Fire survivors are looking for answers, and California is gearing up to meet them where they are,” said Government Operations Secretary Amy Tong. “We have to think differently to bring us closer to those we serve, especially those whose voices we may be missing through traditional channels.”

    Engaged California is different from a poll or town hall, and is not designed to mimic social media. The platform is the intersection between technology, democracy, and state government. The end goal is to encourage more discussions as a new way to find common ground, a process known internationally as deliberative democracy.

    The launch of Engaged California will initially focus on the response to the Los Angeles firestorms, bringing together community members to help influence response efforts and better address issues based on community experiences and voices. 

    “The launch of this program and our first deliberation will help us hear from the people we serve,” said California Office of Data and Innovation Director Jeffery Marino. “Far from just a technical tool, this is an innovative approach to foster greater collaboration and co-creation between the people of California and their government.”

    The Government Operations Agency, the California Office of Data and Innovation (ODI), in partnership with Carnegie California, the West Coast office and program of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, are leading the development of this program and its supporting deliberative engagement tools. The state is also partnering with the City of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and community organizations to help ensure the program is accessible for community members who may be harder to reach. 

    Other program design partners and advisors for this initiative include scholars and leaders from the American Public Trust, the Berggruen Institute, Stanford University’s Deliberative Democracy Lab, UC Berkeley, Harvard University’s Center for Internet and Society, the San Francisco Foundation, Project Liberty Institute and the Kapor Center.

    What our partners are saying

    Mariano-Florentino (Tino) Cuéllar, President, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace: “The future of democracy depends on finding new ways for public officials to become more responsive to the people, to bridge divides, and to harness emerging technologies that can help solve problems and improve lives in California and around the world.  This effort brings us closer to that future by helping to strengthen democracy’s capacity for both deliberation and action on the issues that matter most.” 

    Nathan Gardels, Editor-in-Chief of Noema Magazine and Co-Founder of the Berggruen Institute’s Think Long Committee for California: “Engaged California is a new tool the Office of Data and Innovation has been developing over the last two years that is intended to be a permanent feature of state government. Engaged California is a three-way tool that enables policymakers and administrators to listen to average citizens outside of election cycles and be responsive; it invites citizens to directly voice their concerns and proposals on an ongoing basis; and it is a platform that encourages and enables Californians from all walks of life to interact with each other to find common ground.” 

    Audrey Tang, Taiwan’s first Digital Minister and creator of vTaiwan: “Instead of just one idea dominating the conversation of the entire population, we can have thousands of different ideas and meld them together into something that is working with the people, not just for the people. And the digital participation infrastructure that enables this, I see a great future in California continuing to lead in this direction.” 

    Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger: “I am excited to be part of the new Engaged California pilot program, which will harness the power of technology to strengthen my connection with Eaton Fire survivors and ensure their voices shape our recovery efforts. This innovative platform will help us better understand the community’s priorities as we focus on a swift and effective rebuilding process in Altadena. I look forward to leveraging this tool to drive meaningful engagement and deliver the support and resources our residents need.” 

    This announcement builds on the strong digital tools California has implemented to help address and streamline response. In addition to offering disaster recovery services in person, the state is providing survivors with the same services online through its ca.gov/lafires website.

    To learn more, visit engaged.ca.gov.

    Recent news

    Feb 21, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Bhavana Prakash, of San Jose, has been appointed to the Physician Assistant Board. Prakash has been a Physician Assistant and Program Manager for the Adult Congenital Heart…

    Feb 20, 2025

    News Sacramento, California –Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Mayumi Kimura, of Temecula, has been appointed Deputy Secretary of Woman Veterans at the California Department of Veterans Affairs. Kimura has been the Founder and Director…

    Feb 19, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Andrew “Andy” Nakahata, of San Francisco, has been appointed Chief Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer at the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank….

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 2.21.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 21, 2025

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Bhavana Prakash, of San Jose, has been appointed to the Physician Assistant Board. Prakash has been a Physician Assistant and Program Manager for the Adult Congenital Heart Program at Stanford Children’s Health since 2024 and a Supervising Physician Assistant at The Permanente Medical Group since 2015. She is a member of the American Congenital Heart Association. Prakash earned a Doctor of Medical Science degree from A.T. Still University, a Master of Medical Science degree from Saint Francis University, and a Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Stanford University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Prakash is a Democrat.

    Joanne Pacheco, of Fresno, has been appointed to the Dental Hygiene Board of California. Pacheco has been Director of the Dental Hygiene Program at Fresno City College since 2017. She is a member of the American Dental Education Association, American Dental Hygienists’ Association, California Dental Hygienists’ Association, and California Dental Hygiene Educators’ Association. Pacheco earned a Master of Arts degree in Organizational Behavior from Alliant International University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Development from Fresno Pacific University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Pacheco is a Republican.

    Mark Apostolon, of Stockton, has been appointed to the 2nd District Agricultural Association San Joaquin Fair Board. Apostolon has been Vice President of Strategic Innovation at El Concilio California since 2016. He was an Executive Producer for TV Pug Entertainment from 2008 to 2016. He was a Producer for Comcast from 2000 to 2007. He was a Producer for Calliope Films from 1995 to 1999. Apostolon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Tufts University. He is a member of the San Joaquin County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Lodi Animal Services Foundation, and Gay Men’s Sexual Health Foundation. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Apostolon is a Democrat.

    Kevin Alto, of McKinleyville, has been appointed to the 9th District Agricultural Association Redwood Acres Fair Board. Alto has been President of Kevin Alto Equipment since 1998. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Alto is a Republican.

    Norma Rojas-Mora, of Bakerfield, has been appointed to the 15th District Agricultural Association Kern County Fair Board. Rojas-Mora has been the Associate Vice Chancellor, Public Relations and Development for the Kern Community College District since 2024.  She was Executive Director of Government Relations and Development for the Kern Community College District from 2022 to 2024. She was the Director of Communication and Community Relations at Bakersfield College from 2018 to 2022. Rojas-Mora was the Resident Services Director at Kern County Housing Authority from 1998 to 2018. She is a member of Latina Leaders of Kern County, Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Business Education Foundation, and the Kern County Workforce Development Board. Rojas-Mora earned a Master of Science degree in Administration from the California State University Bakersfield and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Chicana/Chicano Studies from UCLA. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Rojas-Mora is a Democrat.

    Emily Schoeder, of Dixon, has been appointed to the 36th District Agricultural Association Dixon May Board. She has been a Legislative Assistant for the California Hospital Association since 2019. She was an Office Assistant at Capitol Partners from 2015 to 2018. She is a board member of the Friends of the Crisis Nurseries, an auxiliary of the Sacramento Children’s Home. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Schroeder has no party preference.

    Elizabeth Lincoln, of Kelseyville, has been appointed to the 49th District Agricultural Association Lake County Fair Board. Lincoln has been the Economic Development Director for the Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians since 2015 and Owner of Indigenous Management Services since 2012. She was a Grant Writer for the Colusa Indian Community from 2009 to 2014. She earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Park Resource Management and Environmental Sciences and Natural Resources from Kansas State University. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Lincoln is a Democrat.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Feb 20, 2025

    News Sacramento, California –Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Mayumi Kimura, of Temecula, has been appointed Deputy Secretary of Woman Veterans at the California Department of Veterans Affairs. Kimura has been the Founder and Director…

    Feb 19, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Andrew “Andy” Nakahata, of San Francisco, has been appointed Chief Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer at the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank….

    Feb 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: A court has denied the city of Norwalk’s request to dismiss the state’s lawsuit against the city for its unlawful ban on homeless shelters.  NORWALK — Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement in response to a court decision…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Japanese second-hand luxury retailer opens first overseas outlet in Hong Kong (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Japanese second-hand luxury retailer opens first overseas outlet in Hong Kong (with photo)
    Japanese second-hand luxury retailer opens first overseas outlet in Hong Kong (with photo)
    ******************************************************************************************

         ​Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) today (February 22) announced that Japanese second-hand luxury retailer, Otakaraya, opened its first overseas outlet in Hong Kong as part of its expansion plan in Asia and to prepare for entering the European and American markets.     Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK Mr Arnold Lau said, “We warmly welcome Otakaraya’s decision to establish its first overseas base in Hong Kong, reaffirming the city’s status as a premier international retail hub. The city offers an excellent business environment and a diverse consumer market, providing a good development platform for international brands. We look forward to Otakaraya’s success in Hong Kong and encourage more international brands to expand their business here.”     Located in Jordan of Hong Kong, Otakaraya’s first store specialises in buying and selling carefully selected luxury brand items, promoting the concepts of environmental sustainability and sustainable fashion. As consumer interest in second-hand luxury goods continues to grow, the new store not only brings fresh vitality to the Hong Kong market but also reflects local consumers’ demand for high-end products.     The Director of E-FRAN HK Limited, Mr Takeshi Asai, said, “Otakaraya has more than 1 300 shops in Japan as of January 2025, making it one of the country’s largest second-hand luxury retailers. Our target is to become a trillion yen company, and expanding into overseas markets is important for achieving this.”     He added, “As an international city located in the heart of Asia, Hong Kong has a high concentration of premium brand boutiques, making luxury brand ownership widespread. The city also has a thriving culture of second-hand luxury goods. We believe that Hong Kong is the ideal location for our first overseas store.”     Established in 2024, E-FRAN HK Limited will be responsible for the operations of “LUXURY BRAND BUY & SELL OTAKARAYA JAPAN” in Hong Kong, which specialises in buying and selling second-hand branded goods and luxury jewellery.     For more information about E-FRAN, please visit e-fran.jp.     To get a copy of the photo, please visit www.flickr.com/photos/investhk/albums/72177720323807933.

     
    Ends/Saturday, February 22, 2025Issued at HKT 11:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Singapore ETO sponsors Hong Kong Ballet’s performances in Singapore to promote cultural exchange (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Singapore ETO sponsors Hong Kong Ballet’s performances in Singapore to promote cultural exchange (with photos)
    Singapore ETO sponsors Hong Kong Ballet’s performances in Singapore to promote cultural exchange (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Singapore (Singapore ETO) supported and sponsored ALICE (in wonderland) four performances by the Hong Kong Ballet (HKB), one of Asia’s premier dance companies, at the Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, Singapore, which the opening performance was held last evening (February 21).     ALICE (in Wonderland) was a magical production by the Artistic Director of HKB, Mr Septime Webre, which combines stunning choreography, captivating storytelling, and world-class artistry. The playful and theatrical costumes, colourful sets and beloved original score brought audiences to revisit the fantastical world of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale in the year of its 160th. The well-received performance reflected Hong Kong’s unique ability to blend tradition with innovation, creating performances that resonate with audiences worldwide.       About 100 guests, including the Executive Director of HKB, Ms Heidi Li, Mr Webre, representatives from the Chinese Embassy in Singapore, Singapore government ministries, Singapore National Arts Council, business, arts and education sectors, members of Singaporean communities, were invited to a reception hosted by the Singapore ETO before the opening performance.     Speaking at the reception, the Director of the Singapore ETO, Mr Owin Fung, said that “the performance was a testament to Hong Kong’s vibrant arts and cultural developments. Through this event, we were showcasing Hong Kong’s artistic excellence and promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Singapore ETO, we will spare no effort to continue bringing Hong Kong’s performing groups to Singapore as well as to ASEAN countries, which is essential to help bring our aspiration to become a hub for cultural events and exchange to the forefront”.     This event also holds special significance as it recruited around 100 young dancers (aged 7 to 17) from Singapore for training and performance alongside around 50 dancers of Hong Kong Ballet. This not only enriches the cultural experience for both audiences and participants but also strengthens the bond between Hong Kong and Singapore. By nurturing our young talent and fostering collaboration, both places are building a bridge for mutual learning and cultural advancement.

     
    Ends/Saturday, February 22, 2025Issued at HKT 10:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Taiwan: Amnesty calls for robust protection of human rights in the digital age at RightsCon2025

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Taiwan must address human rights concerns about the digitalization of government data and other aspects of the country’s Internet governance, Amnesty International Taiwan and its partners will say in a joint statement to be presented to President Lai Ching-Te on 25 February.

    The statement signed by seven organizations will be presented during the 13th edition of RightsCon, a global conference on promoting and safeguarding digital rights, which is taking place for the first time in East Asia, in Taipei, Taiwan, from 24 to 27 February.

    “The Taiwanese government must ensure its approach to digital governance will allow human rights and the rule of law to continue to thrive in the country, 

    Eeling Chiu, Amnesty International Taiwan Director.

    “When this government came to power, it promised to uphold and respect digital rights. It must live up to it. A crucial step would be to improve regulations on personal data protection by adopting and following sound privacy protection principles that give individuals consent over how their personal data is used and the right to retain control over it.”

    The joint statement calls for action on a Digital Bill of Rights drafted and put forward by civil society actors; improvement in the handling and respect of personal data; establishment of a mechanism for accountability and remedy in the event of personal data breaches in public offices; and prevention of the use and abuse of executive powers to restrict internet access.

    RightsCon is expected to tackle a broad spectrum of issues, including regulating social media platforms to prevent them from becoming conduits for online hate, the global proliferation of spyware, as well as the emergence of Technology Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) and increasing repression online.

    “RightsCon provides us with a critical platform for a global dialogue on emerging human rights issues in the digital space. As technology and online interactions rapidly evolve this discussion has become increasingly urgent,” said Eeling Chiu, Amnesty International Taiwan Director.

    Amnesty International Taiwan will be participating in the conference throughout its duration with spokespeople available for media interviews regarding Amnesty’s calls for governments to:

    • enact and enforce robust data protection laws to help promote human rights, ban surveillance advertising that relies on invasive tracking and the profiling of users for profit.
    • establish legally binding measures that require technology companies to conduct human rights due diligence to identify and address human rights impacts related to their global operations, including risks and abuses linked to their algorithmic systems and business models.
    • for Big Tech companies to end their surveillance-based business models; and for social media companies to increase investment in local-language content moderation throughout the world, particularly in non-English speaking, Global Majority countries.

    Background

    Every two years, RightsCon convenes business leaders, policy makers, general counsels, government representatives, technologists, academics, journalists, and human rights advocates from around the world to tackle pressing issues at the intersection of human rights and technology. More than 550 discussion sessions would be held in Taipei and online, bringing together activists, journalists, government representatives and business leaders from around the world to address pressing issues related to human rights in the digital age. Notable speakers at this year’s event include Australian Human Rights Commissioner Lorraine Finlay, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) tech official Rashad Abelson, and Tanzanian Parliamentarian Neema Lugangira.

    For more information or to arrange an interview please contact:

    In Taipei – Jingjie Chen, Senior Media Coordinator at AI Taiwan on [email protected]

    In London – Stanley Kwenda, Strategic Communications Advisor at Amnesty Tech on [email protected] or Amnesty International’s press office via [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Retail activity up in the December 2024 quarter – Stats NZ media and information release: Retail trade survey: December 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Retail activity up in the December 2024 quarter – 24 February 2025 – The total volume of retail sales in New Zealand increased by 0.9 percent in the December 2024 quarter compared with the September 2024 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today. Figures are adjusted for price inflation and seasonal effects.

    “In the December quarter we saw a modest increase in retail activity, with growth across most industries,” economic indicators spokesperson Michael Heslop said.

    Ten of the 15 retail industries had higher retail sales volumes in the December 2024 quarter, compared with the September 2024 quarter, after adjusting for price and seasonal effects.

    Files:

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Kennedy’s Message to America

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    No stone will be left unturned in our effort to end chronic disease. The health of our children is a higher calling for all of us. Watch my message to America and join me in this effort to Make America Healthy Again.
    —

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov

    http://www.Twitter.com/HHSGov | http://www.Facebook.com/HHS http://www.Instagram.com/HHSGov
    http://www.LinkedIn.com/company/us-department-of-health-and-human-services

    HHS Privacy Policy: http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pbXrXGur-4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: Proposed Combination of Saipem and Subsea7

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Milan, Luxembourg, 23 February 2025 – Saipem and Subsea7 announce that today they have reached an agreement in principle on the key terms of a possible merger of the two companies1 (the “Proposed Combination”) through the execution of a memorandum of understanding (the “MoU”). The Proposed Combination is expected to create a global leader in energy services.

    Highlights

    • The combination of Saipem and Subsea7 (the “Combined Company”) will be renamed Saipem7, and will have a combined backlog of €43 billion2, Revenue of approx. €20 billion3 and EBITDA in excess of €2 billion4
    • A global organisation of over 45,000 people, including more than 9,000 engineers and project managers
    • Highly complementary geographical footprints, competencies and capabilities, vessel fleets and technologies that will benefit the Combined Company’s global client base
    • Saipem and Subsea7 shareholders will own 50% each of the share capital of the Combined Company
    • Subsea7 shareholders will receive 6.688 Saipem shares for each Subsea7 share held. Subsea7 will distribute an extraordinary dividend for an amount equal to €450 million immediately prior to completion
    • Transaction expected to deliver material value creation for the shareholders of both Saipem and Subsea7. Annual synergies of approximately €300 million are expected to be achieved in the third year after completion, with one-off costs to achieve such synergies of approximately €270 million
    • The Combined Company will be listed on both the Milan and Oslo stock exchange
    • Siem Industries, reference shareholder of Subsea7, as well as Eni and CDP Equity, reference shareholders of Saipem, have expressed their strong support and intend to vote in favour of the transaction
    • Completion anticipated to occur in the second half of 2026

    The management of both Saipem and Subsea7 share the conviction that there is compelling logic in creating a global leader in energy services, particularly considering the growing size of clients’ projects. Saipem and Subsea7 are highly complementary in terms of market offerings and geographies. The combination would enhance value for shareholders, and all stakeholders, both in the current market and in the long term.

    CDP Equity, Eni and Siem Industries have entered into a separate Memorandum of Understanding, undertaking to support the Proposed Combination and agreeing on the terms of a Shareholders Agreement, to be effective from completion of the Proposed Combination. As part of this, it is intended that the Combined Company’s Chairman will be designated by Siem Industries and that the Combined Company’s CEO will be designated by CDP Equity and Eni. In addition, it is currently envisaged that Mr Alessandro Puliti will be appointed as CEO of the Combined Company5 while it is currently envisaged that Mr John Evans will be the CEO of the entity that will manage the Offshore business of the Combined Company. Such Offshore business will comprise all of Subsea7 and Saipem’s Offshore Engineering & Construction activities.

    The by-laws of the Combined Company are expected to provide for loyalty shares (double votes).

    Strategic Rationale of the Proposed Combination

    The Proposed Combination would be beneficial to the clients of both Saipem and Subsea7, bringing together the respective strengths of both companies:

    • Comprehensive Solutions for Clients: a full spectrum of offshore and onshore services, from drilling, engineering and construction to life-of-field services and decommissioning, with an increased ability to optimise project schedules for clients in oil, gas, carbon capture and renewable energy
    • World-class Expertise and Experience: a talented, global workforce of over 45,000 people, including more than 9,000 engineers and project managers, in more than 60 countries, contributing to deliver solutions unlocking value for clients
    • Global Reach and Diversified Fleet: an expanded and diversified fleet of more than 60 construction vessels enhancing the Combined Company’s ability to undertake a wide range of projects, from shallow water to ultra-deepwater operations, utilising a full portfolio of heavy lift, high-end J-lay, S-lay and reel-lay rigid pipeline solutions, flexible pipe and umbilical lay services and market-leading wind turbine, foundation and cable lay installation capabilities
    • Innovation and Technology: combined expertise to foster innovation in offshore technologies, ensuring cutting-edge solutions for complex projects

    The transaction would create significant shareholder value through:

    • Synergies: expected annual synergies of approximately €300 million in the third year after completion, driven by fleet optimisation, procurement, sales and marketing, and process efficiencies
    • A More Efficient Capital Investment Programme: optimised allocation of capital across a broader, complementary vessel fleet
    • An Attractive Shareholder Remuneration Policy: post-completion, Saipem7 is expected to pay a dividend of at least 40% of Free Cash Flow6 after repayment of lease liabilities
    • Enhanced Capital Structure: a solid balance sheet that is expected to support an investment grade credit rating
    • Greater Scale in Both Equity and Debt Capital Markets: access to a wider investor base and to more diversified sources of capital

    Transaction Structure and Ownership

    • The Combined Company would be created by way of an EU cross-border statutory merger carried out by way of incorporation of Subsea 7 into Saipem, with the latter to be renamed “Saipem7”. The Combined Company would be headquartered in Milan and have its shares listed on both the Milan and the Oslo stock exchanges
    • Siem Industries (being the largest shareholder of Subsea7) would then own approximately 11.9% of the Combined Company’s capital, while Eni and CDP Equity (being the largest shareholders of Saipem) would own approximately 10.6% and approximately 6.4%, respectively

    Transaction Terms

    • Subsea7 shareholders would receive 6.688 new Saipem7 shares for each Subsea7 share held
    • Assuming all Subsea7 shareholders participate in the merger, the share capital of the Combined Company will be held 50-50% by the current shareholders of Saipem and Subsea7
    • Immediately prior to completion of the Proposed Combination, Subsea7 shareholders would receive an extraordinary cash dividend of €450 million7

    Organisational Structure of the Combined Company

    • The Combined Company will be structured in four businesses: Offshore Engineering & Construction, Onshore Engineering & Construction, Sustainable Infrastructures and Offshore Drilling
    • The Offshore Engineering & Construction business will be incorporated in an operationally autonomous company, named Subsea7 and branded as “Subsea7 – a Saipem7 Company”, and it is currently envisaged that it will be led by Mr John Evans. It will comprise all of Subsea7’s business and the Asset Based Services business of Saipem, representing approximately 83% of the combined group’s EBITDA of the last 12 months as of 30 September 2024. The company will be headquartered in London
    • In line with Saipem’s previous strategy, the Onshore Engineering & Construction will be run with a focus on reducing overall risk and maximising profitability. The Sustainable Infrastructures business will aim to consolidate its presence in the Italian market with potential expansion overseas. The Offshore Drilling division will seek to continue to maximise its EBITDA and cash flow

    Shareholder Remuneration

    • The MoU allows Saipem and Subsea7 to make shareholder distributions of up to $350 million each in 2025, in the form of dividends8,9
    • In 2026, if the Proposed Combination is not completed before the approval of the full year 2025 results of Saipem and Subsea7, the two companies could each distribute by way of dividends10,11 at least $300 million
    • Following completion of the Proposed Combination, the Combined Company is expected to distribute to shareholders at least 40% of Free Cash Flow12 after repayment of lease liabilities

    Shareholders Agreement

    The Memorandum of Understanding amongst Siem Industries, CDP Equity and Eni provides for, inter alia, a three-year shareholder lock-up and standstill obligation and the submission of a common slate for the appointment of the majority of the members of the board of directors of the Combined Company.

    Timing, Conditions Precedent and Approvals

    The entering into and signing of binding definitive documents in respect of the Proposed Combination is conditional, inter alia, on the successful completion of confirmatory due diligence by the parties, the execution of a mutually satisfactory merger agreement (the “Merger Agreement”) and the approval of the final terms of the Proposed Combination by the Board of Directors of Saipem and Subsea7. The parties will also engage with the relevant works council consultations required by the applicable laws.

    Saipem and Subsea7 have undertaken mutual exclusivity obligations in connection with the negotiations of the Proposed Combination.

    Moreover, completion of the Proposed Combination will be subject to customary conditions precedent for a transaction of this nature, including, inter alia, approval by the shareholders’ meetings of both Saipem and Subsea7, the former to be also passed with the so-called whitewash majorities for the purposes of the mandatory takeover bid exemption13, and obtaining the required Italian government approval and customary regulatory clearances.

    Until such conditions precedent are satisfied, there can be no certainty that the Proposed Combination will occur.

    The MoU also provides for termination rights for each of Saipem and Subsea7 in connection with material findings in the context of the confirmatory due diligence, or upon payment of a break-up fee, should any of the companies wish to terminate the negotiations at its discretion before entering into the Merger Agreement.

    The parties currently envisage to submit the final terms of the Proposed Combination to their respective Board of Directors for approval and to enter into the Merger Agreement around mid-2025. Completion is currently anticipated to occur in the second half of 2026.

    Conference Call

    On Monday 24 February 2025, at 10:00 CET, the top management of Saipem and Subsea7 will present the transaction in a dedicated conference call, which can be followed by connecting to the below URL:

    https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/az2o9ou7/

    The document that will be presented by Saipem and Subsea7 top management will be available on the two respective websites (www.saipem.com and www.Subsea7.com). A replay of the call will be available on the two companies’ websites.

    Advisers

    Goldman Sachs International is acting as lead financial advisor to Saipem, and Deutsche Bank AG, Milan Branch as financial advisor to Saipem. Clifford Chance LLP is serving as global legal counsel to Saipem in particular as to matters of Italian, English, US and Luxembourg law, while Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS is serving as legal counsel to Saipem as to matters of Norwegian law.

    Kirk Lovegrove & Company Limited is acting as lead financial advisor and Deloitte LLP is acting as financial advisor to Subsea7. Freshfields LLP is serving as global legal counsel to Subsea7 (including as to matters of Italian, US and English Law), while Elvinger Hoss Prussen S.A. and Advokatfirmaet Wiersholm AS are serving as legal counsels as to matters of Luxembourg and Norwegian law, respectively.

    Enquiries

    Saipem is a global leader in the engineering and construction of major projects for the energy and infrastructure sectors, both offshore and onshore. Saipem is “One Company” organized into business lines: Asset Based Services, Drilling, Energy Carriers, Offshore Wind, Sustainable Infrastructures, Robotics & Industrialised Solutions. The company has 6 fabrication yards and an offshore fleet of 21 construction vessels (of which 17 owned and 4 owned by third parties and managed by Saipem) and 15 drilling rigs, of which 9 owned. Always oriented towards technological innovation, the company’s purpose is “Engineering for a sustainable future”. As such Saipem is committed to supporting its clients on the energy transition pathway towards Net Zero, with increasingly digital means, technologies and processes geared for environmental sustainability. Listed on the Milan Stock Exchange, it is present in more than 50 countries around the world and employs about 30,000 people of over 120 nationalities.

    Subsea7 is a global leader in the delivery of offshore projects and services for the energy industry. Subsea7 makes offshore energy transition possible through the continuous evolution of lower-carbon oil and gas and by enabling the growth of renewables and emerging energies.

    +++

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This communication and the information contained in it are provided for information purposes only and are not intended to be and shall not constitute a solicitation of any vote or approval, or an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy, or an invitation or recommendation to subscribe for, acquire or buy securities of Saipem, Subsea 7 or the combined company following the proposed merger of Saipem and Subsea 7 (the “Proposed Business Combination Transaction“) or any other financial products or securities, in any place or jurisdiction, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made in the United States absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, such registration requirements.

    Forward-looking Statements

    This communication contains forward-looking information and statements about Saipem and Subsea7 and their combined business after completion of the Proposed Business Combination Transaction. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. These statements include financial projections and estimates and their underlying assumptions, statements regarding plans, objectives and expectations with respect to future operations, products and services, and statements regarding future performance. Forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words “expects,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates” and similar expressions. Although the managements of Saipem and Subsea7 believe that the respective expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors and holders of Saipem and Subsea7 shares are cautioned that forward-looking information and statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of Saipem and Subsea7, respectively, that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. Except as required by applicable law, neither Saipem nor Subsea7 undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking information or statements.

    Important Additional Information about the Proposed Business Combination Transaction

    This communication is not a substitute for a registration statement or for any other document that Saipem or Subsea7 may file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) in connection with the Proposed Business Combination Transaction. In connection with the Proposed Business Combination Transaction, Saipem and Subsea7 are filing relevant materials with the SEC, which, to the extent Saipem’s shares will be required to be registered under the U.S. Securities Act, may include a registration statement on Form F-4 that contains a prospectus. If an exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act is available, the shares issued in connection with the Proposed Business Combination Transaction will be made available within the United States pursuant to such exemption and not pursuant to an effective registration statement on Form F-4.

    SAIPEM AND SUBSEA7 URGE INVESTORS AND SHAREHOLDERS TO READ ANY SUCH REGISTRATION STATEMENT, PROSPECTUS AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT MAY BE FILED WITH THE SEC, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THESE DOCUMENTS, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT SAIPEM AND SUBSEA7, THE PROPOSED BUSINESS COMBINATION TRANSACTION AND RELATED MATTERS.

    Investors and shareholders can obtain free copies of the prospectus and other documents filed by Saipem and Subsea7 with the SEC (when they become available) through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. Shareholders of Subsea7 are urged to read the prospectus, if and when available, and the other relevant materials when they become available, as well as any supplements and amendments thereto, before making any voting or investment decision with respect to the Proposed Business Combination Transaction and will receive information at an appropriate time on how to obtain these transaction-related documents for free from the parties involved or a duly appointed agent.

    Use of Non-IFRS Financial Measures

    This announcement includes certain non-IFRS financial measures with respect to Saipem and Subsea7, including EBITDA and Net debt. These unaudited non-IFRS financial measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, measures of Saipem’s and Subsea7’s financial performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. In addition, these measures may be defined differently than similar terms used by other companies.

    Presentation of Financial Information

    This communication includes financial data regarding Saipem and Subsea7 and the combination of Saipem and Subsea7. The presentation of information in any registration statement that Saipem may file with the SEC may be different than the financial data included herein as the financial data included in any registration statement will be required to comply with the rules and regulations of the SEC. Further, any financial data contained herein representing the combination of Saipem and Subsea7 has not been prepared in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC, including the pro forma requirements of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, pro forma financial data contained in any registration statement filed with respect to the Proposed Business Combination Transaction may differ from the pro forma financial data contained herein, and such differences may be material. Any combined company financial data presented herein is presented for informational purposes only and is not intended to represent or be indicative of the actual consolidated results of operations or financial position that would have been reported had the Proposed Business Combination Transaction been completed as of October 1st, 2024, and should not be taken as representative of the companies’ future consolidated results of operations or financial position had the Proposed Business Combination Transaction occurred as of such date. These estimates are based on financial information available at the time of the preparation of this communication.

    1 Merger by way of incorporation of Subsea7 into Saipem
    2 Combined backlog for Saipem and Subsea7 as of 30 September 2024
    3 Combined Revenue for Saipem and Subsea7 as per last 12 months as of 30 September 2024
    4 Combined EBITDA for Saipem and Subsea7 as per last 12 months as of 30 September 2024
    5 Subject to approval by the Shareholders’ Meeting and the Board of Directors of the Combined Company
    6 Free Cash Flow is defined as Cash Flow from Operations less Capital Expenditure plus Divestments
    7 Subject to approval by the Shareholders’ Meeting
    8 Subject to approval by the Shareholders’ Meeting and the Board of Directors
    9 The dividend paid by Saipem will be qualified as ordinary in nature
    10 Subject to approval by the Shareholders’ Meeting and the Board of Directors
    11 The dividend paid by Saipem will be qualified as ordinary in nature
    12 Free Cash Flow is defined as Cash Flow from Operations less Capital Expenditure plus Divestments
    13 Pursuant to Art. 49, paragraph 1, letter g) of Consob Regulation 11971/99

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Scam Factories: the inside story of Southeast Asia’s brutal fraud compounds

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Ashlynne McGhee, Digital Storytelling Editor

    Scam Factories is a special multimedia and podcast series by The Conversation that explores the inner workings of Southeast Asia’s brutal scam compounds.

    The Conversation’s digital storytelling and podcast teams collaborated with three researchers: Ivan Franceschini, a lecturer in Chinese Studies at the University of Melbourne; Ling Li, a PhD candidate at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice; and Mark Bo, an independent researcher.

    The researchers have spent the past few years interviewing nearly 100 survivors of these compounds and documenting the rise of the industry in Southeast Asia for a forthcoming book.

    Scam Factories will unfold across three multimedia articles and three podcast episodes this week. We’ll update this page as more is published.

    Part 1

    Our first article explores how people are lured into the industry and what life is like inside the compounds, where scammers are forced to work long hours and are often subjected to violence.

    And in our first podcast episode, No skills required, our researchers travel to a village in Cambodia called Chrey Thom to see what these compounds look like. And we hear from two survivors, a Ugandan man we’re calling George and a Malaysian woman we’re calling Lee, about how they were recruited into compounds in Laos and Myanmar.

    The Conversation contacted all the companies mentioned in this series for a comment, except Jinshui, which we couldn’t contact. We did not receive a response from any of them.

    Credits

    The podcast series was written and produced by Gemma Ware with production assistance from Katie Flood and Mend Mariwany. Sound design by Michelle Macklem. Leila Goldstein was our producer in Cambodia and Halima Athumani recorded for us in Uganda. Hui Lin helped us with Chinese translation. Photos by Roun Ry, KDA, Halima Athumani and Ivan Franceschini.

    Justin Bergman at The Conversation in Australia edited the articles in the series and Matt Garrow worked on the graphical elements of the stories. Series oversight and editing help from Ashlynne McGhee.

    – ref. Scam Factories: the inside story of Southeast Asia’s brutal fraud compounds – https://theconversation.com/scam-factories-the-inside-story-of-southeast-asias-brutal-fraud-compounds-250448

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘It seemed like a good job at first’: how people are trafficked, trapped and forced to scam in Southeast Asia – Scam Factories podcast, Ep 1

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Gemma Ware, Host, The Conversation Weekly Podcast, The Conversation

    Scam Factories is a podcast series from The Conversation Weekly taking you inside Southeast Asia’s brutal fraud compounds. It accompanies a series of articles on The Conversation.

    Hundreds of thousands of people are estimated to work in these scam compounds. Many were trafficked there and then forced into criminality by defrauding people around the world via email, phone and social media.

    The Conversation collaborated for this series with three researchers: Ivan Franceschini, a lecturer in Chinese Studies at the University of Melbourne, Ling Li, a PhD candidate at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, and Mark Bo, an independent researcher. They’ve spent the past few years researching the expansion of scam compounds in the region for a forthcoming book. They’ve interviewed nearly 100 survivors of these compounds, analysed maps and financial documents related to the scam industry, and tracked scammers online to find out how these operations work.

    In this first episode of the podcast series, No Skills Required, we find out how people are recruited and trafficked into the compounds – with many believing they’re going there to do a legitimate job.

    Our researchers travel to a village in Cambodia, Chrey Thom, to see what these compounds look like. And we hear from two survivors, a Ugandan man we’re calling George and a Malaysian woman we’re calling Lee to protect their real identities, about how they were tricked into travelling to compounds in Laos and Myanmar.

    Read an article by Ivan Franceschini and Ling Li which accompanies this episode.

    The Conversation contacted all the companies mentioned in this series for a comment, except Jinshui, which we could not contact. We did not receive a response from any of them.

    This episode was written and produced by Gemma Ware, with assistance from Mend Mariwany and Katie Flood. Leila Goldstein was our producer in Cambodia and Halima Athumani recorded for us in Uganda. Hui Lin helped us with Chinese translation. Sound design by Michelle Macklem and editing help from Ashlynee McGhee and Justin Bergman.

    Listen to The Conversation Weekly podcast via any of the apps listed above, download it directly via our RSS feed or find out how else to listen here.

    Mark Bo, an independent researcher who works with Ivan Franeschini and Ling Li, is also interviewed in this podcast series. Ivan, Ling, Mark, and others have co-founded EOS Collective, a non-profit organisation dedicated to investigating the criminal networks behind the online scam industry and supporting survivors.

    – ref. ‘It seemed like a good job at first’: how people are trafficked, trapped and forced to scam in Southeast Asia – Scam Factories podcast, Ep 1 – https://theconversation.com/it-seemed-like-a-good-job-at-first-how-people-are-trafficked-trapped-and-forced-to-scam-in-southeast-asia-scam-factories-podcast-ep-1-250444

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Scam Factories: the inside story of Southeast Asia’s brutal fraud compounds

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ashlynne McGhee, Digital Storytelling Editor

    Scam Factories is a special multimedia and podcast series by The Conversation that explores the inner workings of Southeast Asia’s brutal scam compounds.

    The Conversation’s digital storytelling and podcast teams collaborated with three researchers: Ivan Franceschini, a lecturer in Chinese Studies at the University of Melbourne; Ling Li, a PhD candidate at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice; and Mark Bo, an independent researcher.

    The researchers have spent the past few years interviewing nearly 100 survivors of these compounds and documenting the rise of the industry in Southeast Asia for a forthcoming book.

    Scam Factories will unfold across three multimedia articles and three podcast episodes this week. We’ll update this page as more is published.

    Part 1

    Our first article explores how people are lured into the industry and what life is like inside the compounds, where scammers are forced to work long hours and are often subjected to violence.

    And in our first podcast episode, No skills required, our researchers travel to a village in Cambodia called Chrey Thom to see what these compounds look like. And we hear from two survivors, a Ugandan man we’re calling George and a Malaysian woman we’re calling Lee, about how they were recruited into compounds in Laos and Myanmar.

    The Conversation contacted all the companies mentioned in this series for a comment, except Jinshui, which we couldn’t contact. We did not receive a response from any of them.

    Credits

    The podcast series was written and produced by Gemma Ware with production assistance from Katie Flood and Mend Mariwany. Sound design by Michelle Macklem. Leila Goldstein was our producer in Cambodia and Halima Athumani recorded for us in Uganda. Hui Lin helped us with Chinese translation. Photos by Roun Ry, KDA, Halima Athumani and Ivan Franceschini.

    Justin Bergman at The Conversation in Australia edited the articles in the series and Matt Garrow worked on the graphical elements of the stories. Series oversight and editing help from Ashlynne McGhee.

    – ref. Scam Factories: the inside story of Southeast Asia’s brutal fraud compounds – https://theconversation.com/scam-factories-the-inside-story-of-southeast-asias-brutal-fraud-compounds-250448

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: After 3 years of war, Ukrainian business leaders share their lessons on survival

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amy L. Kenworthy, Professor of Management, Bond University

    Drop of Light/Shutterstock

    It’s exactly three years since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

    During that time, Ukrainians have lived through one of the world’s largest and most brutal humanitarian crises. Yet their resilience remains high.

    The United Nations estimates that 64% of micro, small and medium enterprises had to either suspend or close their operations in Ukraine at some stage after the war began.

    But the vast majority of these have since opened back up.

    Over the past year, our international team of researchers from both Australia and Ukraine sought to find out what might drive such extraordinary resilience. The answer, according to Ukrainian business leaders, is their people.

    Running a business in a war

    Ukrainians are currently living through their third winter of this war. Some of Russia’s latest attacks have targeted the gas infrastructure and other energy facilities crucial for keeping people alive.

    These daily attacks have made previously safe cities no longer safe, leaving residents without water, heat and electricity in bitterly cold conditions.

    According to the UNHCR’s 2025 Global Appeal, Russia’s targeting of homes, hospitals and communities has resulted in civilian deaths, mass displacements, restricted access to humanitarian aid, and severely disrupted essential services.

    For businesses, the war has impacted virtually every aspect of commercial activity. Beyond the immediate threat of coming under direct attack, firms have had to deal with everything from disrupted supply chains through to frequent power outages.

    As one interviewee put it:

    Many of us are afraid our main businesses may go bankrupt. We are constantly facing periods with no electricity which stops businesses and cuts us off from the world. We live with constant air raid alarms, moving in and out of underground shelters. We have a significant shortage of personnel because so many have gone to fight on the front lines or left the country.

    The UN estimates that utilisation of production capacity for Ukraine’s micro, small and medium enterprises dropped from 72.4% before the war to 45.7% in 2023.

    To make matters worse, with millions of people having fled Ukraine, finding and retaining qualified personnel has become extremely difficult.

    Women have been stepping into historically male dominated professions such as mining, truck driving and welding to fill the gap left by men who’ve joined the fight. But there is still a significant labour shortage.

    A diverse range of sectors have continued to operate in Ukraine since the war began, despite labour shortages and other issues.
    Oleksandr Filatov/Shutterstock

    Over the past year, our international team of researchers from both Australia and Ukraine surveyed business leaders from 85 different small and medium-sized businesses across 19 different industries in Ukraine.

    These spanned engineering, transportation, aviation and mining through to agriculture, tourism, IT, healthcare, entertainment and finance.

    We asked which resources were – and still are – key to the survival of their organisations.

    Finance and access to funding came in at number two, followed by production and energy, new customers & markets, equipment technology & information and policy & regulations.

    The most important resource

    The most important resource, highlighted by 82% of the business leaders we surveyed, was their people.

    When operating within an environment of severe crisis and disruption, the pressure can be enormous. But the Ukrainian executives we interviewed figured out a way to unite and lead their teams into the future.

    As one reflected:

    When team members are motivated, they are more likely to be optimistic and resilient when facing difficulties. Motivated employees are more productive than demotivated ones. This is important when people need to accomplish more with fewer resources.

    Forcing positive adaptation

    For many organisations in our research, operating within a crisis had pushed them to implement valuable human resource practices other businesses often struggle with.

    Some had transitioned to a “flatter” organisational structure, speeding up decision making by giving employees more autonomy. Others invested in team training which focused on empowering employees to share their thoughts on how to best move forward.

    Our processes and planning horizons have changed completely. We’ve had to become more agile and flexible in our approach to leadership, often reducing planning cycles and adapting to new realities much faster than before.

    A focus on wellbeing was another common theme. Some organisations hosted more meetings to allow their employees to share stories – not only about work but also about their personal fears and victories.

    Some also encouraged their employees to complete volunteer work together during work hours.

    There was an emphasis across interviews on the fact all employees need additional rest and recovery time, and encouraging them to take time off whenever needed.

    Making sacrifices

    Many of the new support mechanisms had financial consequences for the organisations.

    One business cancelled the salaries of its top management team one month after the war started. Another hired a full-time psychologist to provide counselling in both formal and informal sessions.

    Some continued to pay the salaries of their serving members:

    All our mobilized employees who are serving in the military have been receiving their salaries for the past three years. We also ensure they are equipped with everything they need, stay in constant contact with them, and support their families.

    Knowing their business was supporting the war effort had a positive impact on employee motivation:

    The only difference in employee motivation is the understanding that our company actively supports the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Thus, every employee in the company understands that through their work, they are involved in this support.

    In the end, it is the connections between people these leaders saw as the key to their organisational resilience.

    No matter how hard things get, how much grief and suffering we endure, we know for certain that tomorrow the sun will rise. And even if it’s not for us, it will be for our children. This is what gives us the strength to continue living, creating, and preserving Ukraine — for us and for future generations.

    The authors would like to acknowledge their academic partners and coauthors from the Ukrainian Catholic University in Lviv, Ukraine, Yaryna Boychuk, Valeria Kozlova, Sophia Opatska, and Olena Trevoho, and thank all the Ukrainian business leaders who participated in this research.

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

    – ref. After 3 years of war, Ukrainian business leaders share their lessons on survival – https://theconversation.com/after-3-years-of-war-ukrainian-business-leaders-share-their-lessons-on-survival-249145

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A powerful force is stopping the Indian Ocean from cooling itself – spelling more danger for Ningaloo

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Boden-Hawes, PhD Candidate in oceanography, The University of Western Australia

    Violeta Brosig/Blue Media Exmouth

    Widespread coral bleaching at Ningaloo Reef off Western Australia’s coast has deeply alarmed scientists and conservationists.

    Photos captured by divers, published by The Guardian last week, show severe bleaching at several sites along the reef, which runs for 260 kilometres off the state’s northwest.

    A severe marine heatwave in the Indian Ocean off WA has caused the coral bleaching. In some places, surface temperatures up to 4°C warmer than usual have been recorded.

    Hotter temperatures aren’t only happening at the ocean’s surface – data indicates they also extend several hundred metres deep. Warm, deeper water can shut down the ocean’s natural cooling process, putting corals at even greater risk of bleaching.

    Counting the cost

    The full extent of damage to Ningaloo won’t be known until scientists conduct field surveys in coming months.

    So far, bleaching has been documented at several sites, including Turquoise Bay, Coral Bay, Tantabiddi, and Bundegi (Exmouth Gulf).

    Other sites such as Scott Reef, Ashmore Reef, the Rowley Shoals and Rottnest Island are also at risk.

    Damage wrought by the heatwave extends beyond coral. More than 30,000 fish have died since the September onset.

    The below images show the heatwave’s progression. Temperatures from February last year are included for comparison.

    The white circle shows the location of Ningaloo. Cooler temperatures are in blue and purple. Warmer temperatures are in yellow and orange.

    The images show the heatwave reached Ningaloo in December last year and moved south in January. Temperatures fell slightly in February due to strong southerly winds. From March, temperatures are forecast to increase again.

    A complex warming picture

    According to recent data and modelled forecasts, hotter ocean temperatures off northern WA run several hundred metres deep.

    This has been caused by developing La Nina conditions. La Nina and its opposite, El Nino, influence ocean temperatures and weather patterns across the Pacific.

    During La Nina, trade winds strengthen and push warm water westward. This intensifies two important ocean currents.

    The first is the Indonesian Throughflow – which carries warm Pacific waters through the Indonesian seas and into the eastern Indian Ocean. The second is the Leeuwin Current, which picks up this warm water and takes it further south towards Perth.

    This has led to a build-up of hotter water along the WA coastline.

    La Nina is also affecting WA’s reefs in other ways.

    Some coral reefs are naturally cooled by local tides which pull deep, colder water towards the surface. This process, which has been likened to an ocean’s “air conditioner”, can temporarily relieve heat stress for reefs.

    The process relies on “stratification” – that is, layers of seawater that differ in temperature, salinity and density (or weight). Warmer, less dense water collects at the surface and colder, denser water falls to deeper levels.

    La Nina conditions can suppress, or even shut down, this cooling effect in two ways.

    First, it reduces the difference in density between ocean layers. This causes water to draw upwards from shallower depths. Second, it increases water temperatures at depth.

    All this means the water pumped to the surface isn’t much cooler than temperatures at the surface.

    For many reefs along the coast of WA, the suppression of this tidal cooling is probably contributing to worsening conditions, and more coral bleaching.

    Most bleaching forecasts rely on sea surface temperatures. This means scientists may be underestimating the vulnerability of deeper reefs.

    What’s in store for Ningaloo and surrounds?

    Looking ahead, the situation at Ningaloo and surrounding reefs remains critical.

    Bleached reefs are able to recover if temperatures cool quickly. This means theoretically, Ningaloo and other affected reefs may survive the summer.

    But unfortunately, temperatures are rising again and the marine heatwave is expected to continue until April, as the below image shows.

    Sea surface temperature anomaly forecast for March to May. Ningaloo denoted with black ‘X’.
    Bureau of Meteorology

    Climate change is making marine heatwaves more intense and frequent. It means reefs often don’t have time to recover between destructive bleaching events.

    All this is compounded by the general trend towards warmer oceans as the planet heats up.

    Drastic action on climate change is needed now. If this alarming pattern continues, the world’s reefs risk being lost entirely.

    Nicole L. Jones receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Western Australian government.

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

    – ref. A powerful force is stopping the Indian Ocean from cooling itself – spelling more danger for Ningaloo – https://theconversation.com/a-powerful-force-is-stopping-the-indian-ocean-from-cooling-itself-spelling-more-danger-for-ningaloo-250151

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Falling vaccination rates put children at risk of preventable diseases. Governments need a new strategy to boost uptake

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Breadon, Program Director, Health and Aged Care, Grattan Institute

    Yuri A/Shutterstock

    Child vaccination is one of the most cost-effective health interventions. It accounts for 40% of the global reduction in infant deaths since 1974 and has led to big health gains in Australia over the past two decades.

    Australia has been a vaccination success story. Ten years after we begun mass vaccination against polio in 1956, it was virtually eliminated. Our child vaccination rates have been among the best in the world.

    But after peaking in 2020, child vaccination in Australia is falling. Governments need to implement a comprehensive strategy to boost vaccine uptake, or risk exposing more children to potentially preventable infectious diseases.

    Child vaccination has been a triumph

    Thirty years ago, Australia’s childhood vaccination rates were dismal. Then, in 1997, governments introduced the National Immunisation Program to vaccinate children against diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, and measles.

    Measures to increase coverage included financial incentives for parents and doctors, a public awareness campaign, and collecting and sharing local data to encourage the least-vaccinated regions to catch up with the rest of the country.

    What followed was a public health triumph. In 1995, only 52% of one-year-olds were fully immunised. By 2020, Australia had reached 95% coverage for one-year-olds and five-year-olds. At this level, it’s difficult even for highly infectious diseases, such as measles, to spread in the community, protecting both the vaccinated and unvaccinated.

    By 2020, 95% of children were vaccinated.
    Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock

    Gaps between regions and communities closed too. In 1999, the Northern Territory’s vaccination rate for one-year-olds was the lowest in the country, lagging the national average by six percentage points. By 2020, that gap had virtually disappeared.

    The difference between vaccination rates for First Nations children and other children also narrowed considerably.

    It made children healthier. The years of healthy life lost due to vaccine-preventable diseases for children aged four and younger fell by nearly 40% in the decade to 2015.

    Some diseases have even been eliminated in Australia.

    Our success is slipping away

    But that success is at risk. Since 2020, the share of children who are fully vaccinated has fallen every year. For every child vaccine on the National Immunisation Schedule, protection was lower in 2024 than in 2020.

    Gaps between parts of Australia are opening back up. Vaccination rates in the highest-coverage parts of Australia are largely stable, but they are falling quickly in areas with lower vaccination.

    In 2018, there were only ten communities where more than 10% of one-year-old children were not fully vaccinated. Last year, that number ballooned to 50 communities. That leaves more areas vulnerable to disease and outbreaks.

    While Noosa, the Gold Coast Hinterland and Richmond Valley (near Byron Bay) have persistently had some of the country’s lowest vaccination rates, areas such as Manjimup in Western Australia and Tasmania’s South East Coast have recorded big declines since 2018.

    Missing out on vaccination isn’t just a problem for children.

    One preprint study (which is yet to be peer-reviewed) suggests vaccination during pregnancy may also be declining.

    Far too many older Australians are missing out on recommended vaccinations for flu, COVID, pneumococcal and shingles. Vaccination rates in aged care homes for flu and COVID are worryingly low.

    What’s going wrong?

    Australia isn’t alone. Since the pandemic, child vaccination rates have fallen in many high-income countries, including New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States.

    Globally, in 2023, measles cases rose by 20%, and just this year, a measles outbreak in rural Texas has put at least 13 children in hospital.

    Alarmingly, some regions in Australia have lower measles vaccination than that Texas county.

    The timing of trends here and overseas suggests things shifted, or at least accelerated, during the pandemic. Vaccine hesitancy, fuelled by misinformation about COVID vaccines, is a growing threat.

    This year, vaccine sceptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr was appointed to run the US health system, and Louisiana’s top health official has reportedly cancelled the promotion of mass vaccination.

    In Australia, a recent survey found 6% of parents didn’t think vaccines were safe, and 5% believed they don’t work.

    Those concerns are far more common among parents with children who are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated. Among the 2% of parents whose children are unvaccinated, almost half believe vaccines are not safe for their child, and four in ten believe vaccines didn’t work.

    Other consequences of the pandemic were a spike in the cost of living, and a health system struggling to meet demand. More than one in ten parents said cost and difficulty getting an appointment were barriers to vaccinating their children.

    There’s no single cause of sliding vaccination rates, so there’s no one solution. The best way to reverse these worrying trends is to work on all the key barriers at once – from a lack of awareness, to inconvenience, to lack of trust.

    What governments should do

    Governments should step up public health campaigns that counter misinformation, boost awareness of immunisation and its benefits, and communicate effectively to low-vaccination groups. The new Australian Centre for Disease Control should lead the charge.

    Primary health networks, the regional bodies responsible for improving primary care, should share data on vaccination rates with GPs and pharmacies. These networks should also help make services more accessible to communities who are missing out, such as migrant groups and disadvantaged families.

    State and local governments should do the same, sharing data and providing support to make maternal child health services and school-based vaccination programs accessible for all families.

    Governments can communicate better about the benefits of vaccination.
    Yuri A/Shutterstock

    Governments should also be more ambitious about tackling the growing vaccine divides between different parts of the country. The relevant performance measure in the national vaccination agreement is weak. States must only increase five-year-old vaccination rates in four of the ten areas where it is lowest. That only covers a small fraction of low-vaccination areas, and only the final stage of child vaccination.

    Australia needs to set tougher goals, and back them with funding.

    Governments should fund tailored interventions in areas with the lowest rates of vaccination. Proven initiatives include training trusted community members as “community champions” to promote vaccinations, and pop-up clinics or home visits for free vaccinations.

    At this time of year, childcare centres and schools are back in full swing. But every year, each new intake has less protection than the previous cohort. Governments are developing a new national vaccination strategy and must seize the opportunity to turn that trend around. If it commits to a bold national plan, Australia can get back to setting records for child vaccination.

    Grattan Institute has been supported in its work by government, corporates, and philanthropic gifts. A full list of supporting organisations is published at www.grattan.edu.au.

    Wendy Hu does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Grattan Institute has been supported in its work by government, corporates, and philanthropic gifts. A full list of supporting organisations is published at www.grattan.edu.au.

    – ref. Falling vaccination rates put children at risk of preventable diseases. Governments need a new strategy to boost uptake – https://theconversation.com/falling-vaccination-rates-put-children-at-risk-of-preventable-diseases-governments-need-a-new-strategy-to-boost-uptake-249591

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand stands with Ukraine, three years after illegal Russian invasion

    Source: New Zealand Government

    As the world marks three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced additional sanctions on Russian entities and support for Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction. 

    “Russia’s illegal invasion has brought three years of devastation to Ukraine’s people, environment, and infrastructure,” Mr Peters says. 

    “These additional sanctions target 52 individuals and entities involved in Russia’s military-industrial complex, its energy sector, North Korea’s support to Russia’s war effort, and the forced relocation or re-education of Ukrainian children.”   

    Mr Peters announced a further $3 million contribution to the World Bank-administered Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction and Reform Trust Fund.   

    “The Fund supports the Government of Ukraine to maintain services, conduct relief efforts, and plan and implement recovery, reconstruction and reforms,” Mr Peters says.   

    Since the Russia Sanctions Act entered into force in March 2022, New Zealand has imposed sanctions on more than 1,800 individuals and entities, along with a range of trade measures.    

    More information about sanctions, travel bans, and export controls against Russia, as well as diplomatic, military and economic support to Ukraine, can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: DRC vs Rwanda at the African Court: why it could be a decisive moment for human rights and justice on the continent

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Frans Viljoen, Professor of International Human Rights Law, Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria

    As the armed conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) rages on, calls are being made for non-military solutions.

    One such process is a court case before the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights – a judicial organ of the African Union (AU) established by African states “to ensure the protection of human and peoples’ rights”.

    The case was brought by the DRC against Rwanda on 21 August 2023.

    The DRC alleges that Rwanda has violated the African Union’s main human rights treaty, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Kinshasa claims Rwanda has supported M23 rebels since 2021 and that they are responsible for mass killings, mass displacement, destruction of schools, destruction of infrastructure and looting. Rwanda has always denied supporting M23.



    Read more:
    DRC conflict: talks have failed to bring peace. Is it time to try sanctions?

    I have followed the evolution of the African Court in my research since its inception in 2006. I consider this case to be highly significant. It would set a key precedent for human rights enforcement in Africa and tests the AU’s ability to uphold legal rulings. A successful outcome could encourage peaceful dispute resolution among African nations.

    Significant case

    The DRC vs Rwanda case is the first inter-state case ever to be submitted to the African Court.

    Inter-state cases allow one state to submit a case against another for allegedly violating the African Charter, provided that they have both accepted the court’s jurisdiction. So far, only 34 of the AU member states – including the DRC and Rwanda – have accepted the court’s competence to hear cases against them.

    The case of DRC v Rwanda can set an important African precedent. It serves as a way to uphold the integrity of human rights, and not serve the national interest of complaining states.



    Read more:
    M23 rebels are marching across eastern DRC: the interests driving players in the conflict

    It’s also the first time African states have agreed to a judicial settlement of a dispute by an independent body of African judges. Eleven judges, of whom all but the presiding judge serve part-time, hear and decide cases at the court’s seat in Arusha, Tanzania. It may serve as an example that other states in similar situations could emulate, thus allowing for future conflicts to be defused.

    Before the case can proceed, the court first has to consider “preliminary objections” by the state against which the case has been brought – in this case, Rwanda. If the court finds that it has the authority to hear and rule on the case, there is the possibility of legal consequences, like reparations.

    This will be a big test for the African Union. The challenge will be getting countries to comply with decisions – since the African Court does not have an enforcement arm.



    Read more:
    LGBTQ+ rights: African Union watchdog goes back on its own word

    Even if both countries have accepted the court’s jurisdiction, compliance is not automatic. Compliance with the court’s orders has historically been far from exemplary – less than 10% of its decisions have been fully observed.

    It is up to African Union (AU) states collectively to put pressure on non-compliant states. One possibility is imposing sanctions under article 23(2) of the AU Constitutive Act – something the AU policy organs have been reluctant to do so far.

    Public hearing in DRC case

    At a public hearing of the case in February 2025, Rwanda insisted that the court did not have the competence to deal with the case. It argues that the court does not have territorial jurisdiction to rule on the case, because the alleged violations took place outside the borders of Rwanda.

    The DRC countered that while states are usually responsible for actions within their own territory, they are still accountable for actions they control outside their borders.



    Read more:
    Can a regional court be a viable alternative to the ICC in Africa?

    The DRC therefore asked the court to conclude that it has jurisdiction over Rwanda, based on the presence in the DRC of Rwanda’s armed forces and their support for M23.

    Rwanda objected, claiming no clear “dispute” existed between it and the DRC. The DRC countered that a dispute didn’t need to be formal and one clearly existed due to the many unsuccessful efforts to resolve the conflict diplomatically.

    Rwanda argued the case was inadmissible since victims hadn’t exhausted legal remedies in Rwanda. The DRC countered that expecting thousands of people to do so – amid insecurity and rights violations on a massive scale – was unrealistic.



    Read more:
    The African Union has a poor record of protecting democracy. 2024 was no different

    Rwanda further argued that it was an abuse of process for the DRC to have instituted a similar case (Minister of Justice of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) v The Attorney General of the Republic of Rwanda) before the East African Court of Justice. It has heard “preliminary objections” from the attorney general of Rwanda and is yet to give its judgment on this issue. To this, the DRC responded that it had observed the only relevant requirement stipulated in the African Charter, namely, that it must not submit to the court a matter that had been settled by another dispute settlement process.

    Next steps

    After the public hearing, the court deliberated. Usually, it gives its judgment at its next session, which is likely to be in early June 2025.

    The DRC had already approached the court in 2023 to adopt an “expedited procedure”. While the court dismissed this request, in March 2024, it agreed to deal with the case “on a priority basis”. In any event, it is obligated to deliver its judgment within 90 days of its deliberation.

    Rwanda strongly opposed the African Court handling the case, but if the case moves forward, it must cooperate. This is because both Rwanda and the DRC have agreed to follow and enforce the court’s decisions as part of their legal commitment.

    While this is a test case for the African Court, in the near future it may well become a test case for the African Union as a whole.

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

    – ref. DRC vs Rwanda at the African Court: why it could be a decisive moment for human rights and justice on the continent – https://theconversation.com/drc-vs-rwanda-at-the-african-court-why-it-could-be-a-decisive-moment-for-human-rights-and-justice-on-the-continent-250074

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Mining Mali: how policy changes are reshaping the sector

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mamadou Camara, enseignant-chercheur, Université des Sciences sociales et de Gestion de Bamako

    As Mali’s mining sector faces growing tensions — highlighted by the recent seizure of gold stocks from the Canadian company Barrick by the military government — questions about economic sovereignty and mining governance have become more relevant than ever.

    The mining sector plays a strategic role in Mali’s economy, with gold as its driving force. Yet, governance challenges persist at the heart of the sector’s evolution. In this interview, Mamadou Camara, a mining policy researcher, examines ongoing reforms, the impact of these developments, and the key challenges that must be addressed to ensure the sustainable and equitable exploitation of Mali’s mineral resources.

    What role does the mining sector play in the Malian economy?

    In 2023, the mining sector contributed 644 billion CFA (about US$1 billion) to Mali’s state budget. This represents 21.5% of Mali’s budget for the year and a slight increase from the previous year.

    Gold remains the main product, with a production of 70 tonnes in 2023. Of these revenues, 644 billion CFA came from mining companies (US$1.1 billion), and 3 billion CFA (US$4.7 million) came from social payments — taxes based on employee wages, such as housing tax, flat-rate contributions, and professional training levies.

    This highlights the significant role of the mining sector in the country’s economy. Including gold, the extractive sector contributed 6.3% of Malian GDP in 2023, up from 5.9% in 2022.

    Exports amounted to 500 billion CFA francs (about US$784 million), accounting for three-quarters of the country’s total export revenue. The sector also created 61,023 new jobs in 2023, including 10,000 direct jobs.

    Since 2013, Mali has been facing a security and political crisis that has led to coups d’état and the occupation of part of its territory by rebel groups. Amid this crisis, mining revenues have played a key role in financing major infrastructure projects.

    These investments have built and maintained schools, health centres, roads and bridges, strengthening trade.

    Today, the sector is increasingly seen as a pillar of national sovereignty, a key objective for Malian authorities. In 2023, the government issued 12 new exploration licences, prioritising Malian companies while also granting some permits to foreign firms.

    Estimating the volumes extracted in the informal mining sector remains highly complex. Many actors operate outside formal regulatory frameworks, making precise data collection difficult.

    What are the key changes in Mali’s new mining code and their expected impact?

    The 2023 mining code reflects Mali’s ambition to increase its gains from mining, promote more inclusive local development, and strengthen sovereignty (control) over its natural resources. It emphasises “local content”.

    With the introduction of specific legislation on local content, the new mining code prioritises the inclusion of Malian businesses and workers in the extractive sector.

    The law sets clear guidelines for their participation and representation.

    This initiative could boost local employment and strengthen the national economy. The authorities want Malians to directly feel the benefits of mining. Mining operators are now required to contribute 0.75% of their quarterly revenue to a local development fund. The new code also revises tax exemptions, particularly for fuel, to maximise state revenue.

    As a strategic move, Mali now aims to increase its stake in mining projects. The state is set to secure an initial 10% share in any project, and it may get an additional 20% during the early years of production.

    With 5% allocated to the Malian private sector, the total share could reach 35%, compared to the current 20%. This approach is expected to generate an additional 500 billion CFA francs (approximately US$784 million) for the national budget.

    Mali has also restructured the duration and terms for granting mining licences. The new code allows for better resource exploitation. Large mines are now granted renewable permits for 12 years, while exploration licences are issued for a maximum of nine years.

    Before the new mining code was adopted in 2023, exploration licences were granted for an initial period of three years, with the possibility of two renewals of three years each, totalling a maximum duration of nine years.

    These changes aim to encourage more intensive and structured resource exploration.

    What are the main challenges facing Mali’s mining sector?

    The rise of the mining industry has brought both benefits and challenges. To manage these, the players involved have decided to develop a community development policy. This approach aims to create income opportunities while mitigating potential negative effects, such as environmental damage caused by mining operations.

    Adaptation strategies are essential. These include improving access to financing, creating joint economic activities, and ensuring the security of mining zones. Other key areas are land management, housing, healthcare and schooling, as well as supporting public policies, programmes and civil society initiatives.

    Artisanal gold mining has environmental impacts: it causes deforestation and pollution. Cutting trees destroys wildlife habitats, harms useful plant species and weakens the soil.

    Pollution is another major concern. Chemicals contaminate water, soil, plants, animals and people. Air pollution is common due to overcrowding around mining sites.

    The mining industry affects the economy, environment and society. It is a very important source of revenue for the country and it provides direct and indirect jobs to many people through the provision of services to companies operating in this sector.

    To limit harm, mining communities should focus on four goals:

    • increase productivity by building the capacity of stakeholders

    • reduce the socio-economic vulnerability of local communities

    • strengthen stakeholders’ resilience to the effects of mining industry development

    • improve biodiversity conservation and mitigate environmental degradation.

    How can Mali improve mining governance and sustainability?

    The new mining code already improves governance by addressing the legitimate expectations of Mali’s population and government. It promotes a more responsible approach to managing the sector.

    This code ensures that mining benefits are shared fairly among all stakeholders, including local communities, authorities and mining companies.

    Mali is rich in mineral resources. The country has vast untapped potential throughout its territory. However, security issues in the north hinder exploration and mining activities. Some areas remain unassigned to companies due to ongoing insecurity.

    Mamadou Camara is a member a political party in Mali.

    – ref. Mining Mali: how policy changes are reshaping the sector – https://theconversation.com/mining-mali-how-policy-changes-are-reshaping-the-sector-249232

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ancient stone walls and power: what data science tools can reveal in African archaeology

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mncedisi Siteleki, Researcher, University of Oslo

    Visibility has always been important in people’s decisions about where to live and how to arrange their spaces. People make connections with what they can see. Being able to see prominent landmarks, such as certain mountain peaks, rivers or ancestral sites, could help reinforce a community’s connection to its cultural and spiritual landscape.

    Some people prefer homes with scenic views, such as apartments overlooking parks or waterfronts, and businesses often choose locations with high visibility to attract customers. In both ancient and modern contexts, visibility plays a key role in how people position themselves in their environment.

    That’s why visibility is a useful concept when studying the past.

    Archaeologists are interested in what visible and hidden spaces meant to people in long-ago cultures. They have used the idea of visibility to examine things like where settlements were located, socio-political relationships as well as when and where people chose to move.

    In the past 30 years, they’ve been helped in these studies by digital tools like geographic information systems (GIS). GIS is a computer system that uses software and data to map, analyse and manage geographic information.

    But this method is still underutilised in Africa. It has only recently been taken up and very few visibility studies have been conducted on the continent.

    I’m a geospatial data scientist who specialises in uncovering spatial patterns and relationships in archaeological data. I work with the Arcreate project, a group of researchers working on mobility, migration, creativity and knowledge transmission in African societies.

    Recently I published a study of 19th century settlements in the Magaliesberg region in South Africa, using GIS tools to analyse what the visibility of the sites was telling us. Were the settlements designed and positioned to be more visible or less? And did this say something about what mattered to the people who lived there?

    I hope my study serves as a framework for comparative analyses of other African sites in archaeology and sheds some light on what went into the choice of these locations.

    Sotho-Tswana history in southern Africa

    In the early 19th century, the Sotho-Tswana farming communities in South Africa’s hilly Magaliesberg region (about 179km north-west of Johannesburg) grew substantially and became more concentrated. Thousands of settlements developed. Among them were the sites I studied: Marothodi, Molokwane and Kaditshwene. They have also been studied over the years by other archaeologists. Today, all that is left of these sites are the stone wall ruins.

    These settlements were densely populated. They consisted of central kraals (livestock enclosures, or lesaka in the Sesotho language) surrounded by homesteads built of stone. Kaditshwene was the most populous, with about 15,000 residents, and was inhabited by Sotho-Tswana farming communities for the longest time (1650-1828), followed by Molokwane (about 12,000, 1790-1823). At Marothodi (about 7,000, 1815-1823), people produced a surplus of iron and copper (which they traded) as well as keeping livestock.

    Cattle were very important in these communities, playing a central role in cultural practices and symbolising wealth. The visibility of cattle kraals is therefore of interest: it may reveal what people wanted others to see and know about their wealth. It adds to other kinds of knowledge that archaeologists have built up about these communities.

    Technique to analyse visibility

    My study analysed how these 19th century Sotho-Tswana kraals would have been visible from certain points inside and outside the settlement.

    I used a computational technique that drew on LiDAR imagery (high resolution imagery created using laser technology) and software called ArcMap.

    Visibility analysis finds out to what extent observer locations (kraals) can be seen from different points on a map (LiDAR imagery). It compared the visibility of kraals and other spaces, taking elevation (height of structures like stone walls) as a key variable.



    Read more:
    How we recreated a lost African city with laser technology

    The analysis was done at two levels: the settlement (a spatial scale of 650 metres) and the household (a spatial scale of 10×25 metres).

    At the settlement level, I found differences within and between sites.

    At Marothodi, two kraals were highly visible from the surrounding 650 metre area and others less so. Overall, it was the most visible settlement, comparatively.

    At Molokwane, the central cluster of the kraals was highly visible but visibility decreased with distance within the 650 metre surrounding area.

    At Kaditshwene, kraals were not very visible; in fact, this was the case for the settlement overall.

    Marothodi, though smallest in size, featured more kraals, while Kaditshwene, the largest, had the fewest kraals.

    At the household level, the visibility of kraal outlines at Marothodi and Molokwane was significant both from within and outside the kraals.

    So what do these findings tell us?

    Space and priorities

    My analysis of the kraals quantitatively revealed a correlation between spatial arrangements and social, economic and defensive priorities (which other researchers have suggested before).

    Many homesteads and kraals were situated close to each other, emphasising visibility within and around the settlements, which served as symbols of social status and wealth. Larger, more elaborate homesteads, typically belonging to elites, were positioned in a manner that showed off their owners’ power and influence.

    However, more settlements with much larger surrounding areas (beyond 650 metres) need to be studied to confirm these correlations in other landscapes.

    Marothodi had the most visible kraals, likely reflecting its economic focus on the trade of iron and copper. Heightened visibility symbolised wealth and economic activity. Prominent kraals and an open layout suggest deliberate efforts to emphasise trade connections and economic power. The inhabitants evidently wanted to make visible the fact that they were open for business, and that they were doing well from that business.



    Read more:
    How pots, sand and stone walls helped us date an ancient South African settlement

    Conversely, the settlement of Kaditshwene, despite its size, had the least visible kraals. This suggests a defensive strategy aimed at safeguarding cattle from theft during periods of conflict. The undulating landscape and hilltop positioning of settlements reinforced its defensive approach.

    These observations underscore the dual nature of visibility. It serves as a symbol of wealth and status while also functioning as a tactical asset in defensive strategies. While Marothodi needed to be visible to facilitate trade, Kaditshwene concealed its kraals to be safer during conflict.

    In summary, the visibility patterns of these settlements were influenced by a combination of the landscape, as well as social, economic and defensive needs.

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

    – ref. Ancient stone walls and power: what data science tools can reveal in African archaeology – https://theconversation.com/ancient-stone-walls-and-power-what-data-science-tools-can-reveal-in-african-archaeology-248603

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mining Mali: how policy changes are reshaping the sector

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mamadou Camara, enseignant-chercheur, Université des Sciences sociales et de Gestion de Bamako

    As Mali’s mining sector faces growing tensions — highlighted by the recent seizure of gold stocks from the Canadian company Barrick by the military government — questions about economic sovereignty and mining governance have become more relevant than ever.

    The mining sector plays a strategic role in Mali’s economy, with gold as its driving force. Yet, governance challenges persist at the heart of the sector’s evolution. In this interview, Mamadou Camara, a mining policy researcher, examines ongoing reforms, the impact of these developments, and the key challenges that must be addressed to ensure the sustainable and equitable exploitation of Mali’s mineral resources.

    What role does the mining sector play in the Malian economy?

    In 2023, the mining sector contributed 644 billion CFA (about US$1 billion) to Mali’s state budget. This represents 21.5% of Mali’s budget for the year and a slight increase from the previous year.

    Gold remains the main product, with a production of 70 tonnes in 2023. Of these revenues, 644 billion CFA came from mining companies (US$1.1 billion), and 3 billion CFA (US$4.7 million) came from social payments — taxes based on employee wages, such as housing tax, flat-rate contributions, and professional training levies.

    This highlights the significant role of the mining sector in the country’s economy. Including gold, the extractive sector contributed 6.3% of Malian GDP in 2023, up from 5.9% in 2022.

    Exports amounted to 500 billion CFA francs (about US$784 million), accounting for three-quarters of the country’s total export revenue. The sector also created 61,023 new jobs in 2023, including 10,000 direct jobs.

    Since 2013, Mali has been facing a security and political crisis that has led to coups d’état and the occupation of part of its territory by rebel groups. Amid this crisis, mining revenues have played a key role in financing major infrastructure projects.

    These investments have built and maintained schools, health centres, roads and bridges, strengthening trade.

    Today, the sector is increasingly seen as a pillar of national sovereignty, a key objective for Malian authorities. In 2023, the government issued 12 new exploration licences, prioritising Malian companies while also granting some permits to foreign firms.

    Estimating the volumes extracted in the informal mining sector remains highly complex. Many actors operate outside formal regulatory frameworks, making precise data collection difficult.

    What are the key changes in Mali’s new mining code and their expected impact?

    The 2023 mining code reflects Mali’s ambition to increase its gains from mining, promote more inclusive local development, and strengthen sovereignty (control) over its natural resources. It emphasises “local content”.

    With the introduction of specific legislation on local content, the new mining code prioritises the inclusion of Malian businesses and workers in the extractive sector.

    The law sets clear guidelines for their participation and representation.

    This initiative could boost local employment and strengthen the national economy. The authorities want Malians to directly feel the benefits of mining. Mining operators are now required to contribute 0.75% of their quarterly revenue to a local development fund. The new code also revises tax exemptions, particularly for fuel, to maximise state revenue.

    As a strategic move, Mali now aims to increase its stake in mining projects. The state is set to secure an initial 10% share in any project, and it may get an additional 20% during the early years of production.

    With 5% allocated to the Malian private sector, the total share could reach 35%, compared to the current 20%. This approach is expected to generate an additional 500 billion CFA francs (approximately US$784 million) for the national budget.

    Mali has also restructured the duration and terms for granting mining licences. The new code allows for better resource exploitation. Large mines are now granted renewable permits for 12 years, while exploration licences are issued for a maximum of nine years.

    Before the new mining code was adopted in 2023, exploration licences were granted for an initial period of three years, with the possibility of two renewals of three years each, totalling a maximum duration of nine years.

    These changes aim to encourage more intensive and structured resource exploration.

    What are the main challenges facing Mali’s mining sector?

    The rise of the mining industry has brought both benefits and challenges. To manage these, the players involved have decided to develop a community development policy. This approach aims to create income opportunities while mitigating potential negative effects, such as environmental damage caused by mining operations.

    Adaptation strategies are essential. These include improving access to financing, creating joint economic activities, and ensuring the security of mining zones. Other key areas are land management, housing, healthcare and schooling, as well as supporting public policies, programmes and civil society initiatives.

    Artisanal gold mining has environmental impacts: it causes deforestation and pollution. Cutting trees destroys wildlife habitats, harms useful plant species and weakens the soil.

    Pollution is another major concern. Chemicals contaminate water, soil, plants, animals and people. Air pollution is common due to overcrowding around mining sites.

    The mining industry affects the economy, environment and society. It is a very important source of revenue for the country and it provides direct and indirect jobs to many people through the provision of services to companies operating in this sector.

    To limit harm, mining communities should focus on four goals:

    • increase productivity by building the capacity of stakeholders

    • reduce the socio-economic vulnerability of local communities

    • strengthen stakeholders’ resilience to the effects of mining industry development

    • improve biodiversity conservation and mitigate environmental degradation.

    How can Mali improve mining governance and sustainability?

    The new mining code already improves governance by addressing the legitimate expectations of Mali’s population and government. It promotes a more responsible approach to managing the sector.

    This code ensures that mining benefits are shared fairly among all stakeholders, including local communities, authorities and mining companies.

    Mali is rich in mineral resources. The country has vast untapped potential throughout its territory. However, security issues in the north hinder exploration and mining activities. Some areas remain unassigned to companies due to ongoing insecurity.

    – Mining Mali: how policy changes are reshaping the sector
    – https://theconversation.com/mining-mali-how-policy-changes-are-reshaping-the-sector-249232

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governors Approve Federal Priorities at Winter Meeting

    Source: US State of Colorado

    WASHINGTON, DC – At the 2025 Winter Meeting of the National Governors Association (NGA), Governors approved federal priorities to advocate to the 119th Congress and the administration. The priorities were developed by three bipartisan, Governor-led task forces who meet regularly to discuss issues and policies that impact states, territories and commonwealths. The federal priorities are backed by a resolution that was unanimously voted on at today’s business session to serve as a roadmap for NGA’s advocacy efforts at the federal level. 

    “As Governors, we are always looking for new ideas that can help us deliver better results,” said NGA Chair Colorado Governor Jared Polis. “State input is key to avoid abrupt changes that create uncertainty and adversely impact the countless services we run to support infrastructure, education, health care, economic growth and disaster response in our states. Governors are ready and willing to work together, and with the administration and Congress, to evaluate and improve the efficiency of these services. We are open to bipartisan conversations with anyone from state and local governments, fellow governors, Congress, and the federal government.” 

    “Governors of both parties share common purpose when it comes to making our economy, infrastructure, and education and health systems the best they can be,” said NGA Vice Chair Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt. “I appreciate the opportunity to talk with fellow Governors to discuss how states and territories can work with the White House and Congress to reduce debt and grow the economy. Governors balance our budgets, and we are the ones building roads and implementing education reforms. The perspective of Governors is critical to ensure states and territories work effectively with the federal government to achieve the best possible outcomes for Americans.” 

    The full resolution text adopted by Governors for 2025: 

    Governors believe federal action should be limited to the powers expressly conveyed by the Constitution, preserving state sovereignty in legislative and regulatory matters the Executive Committee has added the following bipartisan priorities: 

    • Enhancing emergency management; 
    • Streamlining permitting processes; 
    • Supporting flexibility and waiver opportunities and funding for state and territorial designed Medicaid, SNAP, and TANF; 
    • Ensuring the federal government meets its already committed obligations for federally funded projects across states, territories and Commonwealths. 

    The task forces have developed the following list of federal priorities to advance the mission of the Association: 

    Task Force on Economic Development and Revitalization 

    • Accelerating infrastructure project delivery and streamlining permitting, while establishing Governors priorities for the next surface transportation reauthorization; 
    • Advancing technology innovation and securing energy resilience to strengthen the country’s economy and national security; 
    • Working with Congress on the most impactful programs for states and territories contained in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and the CHIPS and Science Act; 
    • Investing in state and territorial efforts to protect water resources and clean water. Ensuring Governors have a voice as Congress considers tax reform and international trade agreements. 

    Task Force on Public Health and Disaster Response 

    • Ensure Governors are consulted, and their gubernatorial authorities are maintained, in the areas of defense, homeland security, emergency management, health, and human services, including those outlined in U.S.C. Title 10 and 32 pertaining to National Guard readiness and structure; 
    • Advocate for flexibility and support for a robust health and human service system including safety net programs, such as Medicaid and SNAP, and oppose shifting essential federal funding obligations to states and territories without adequate planning; 
    • Ensure the National Guard is equipped with sufficient resources and capabilities to fully recruit and man a force ready to support domestic emergencies and fulfill its role as the operational reserve for national security missions; 
    • Enhance emergency response and disaster recovery by ensuring federal programs, such as Disaster Relief Fund, National Flood Insurance, and Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery, are sufficient, adaptable, and streamlined to meet the diverse needs of states and territories, and easier to navigate for individuals, businesses, and all levels of governments; 
    • Strengthen preparedness efforts by fostering both inter-state and federal-state collaborations to maintain resilient supply chains and stockpiles for critical infrastructure before, during, and after emergencies; Support federal initiatives that provide tools and flexibility to states and territories to ensure safe communities for all Americans in areas such as malicious unmanned aircraft systems, cyberattacks, border security, trafficking, substance use disorder, justice-involved re-integration, crisis response systems, and comprehensive safety measures. 

    Task Force on Education, Workforce and Community Investment 

    • Supporting reauthorization of the Farm Bill; 
    • Supporting efforts to expand innovative educational experiences, apprenticeship opportunities and non-degree pathways including but not limited to the reauthorization of WIOA; 
    • Working with the House and Senate bipartisan Paid Leave Working Groups as they consider a legislative framework around paid family leave; 
    • Supporting continued investment in federal education programs that address workforce needs and efforts to improve state longitudinal data systems; 
    • Increasing supply of housing by strengthening the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and giving states and territories the tools necessary to streamline burdensome zoning, permitting, and land use policies. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Measles: A resurgent threat in Canada

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ruchika Gupta, Assistant Professor and Medical Microbiologist, Department of Pathobiology and Lab Medicine, LHSC and Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University

    The resurgence of measles in Canada is a stark reminder that we cannot take public health achievements for granted. (CDC and NIAID), CC BY

    In the landscape of public health, few stories are as compelling as the unexpected return of a disease we once thought was conquered. Measles, a highly contagious viral infection formally considered eliminated from Canada in 1998, is making a surprising comeback, challenging our public health systems and communities at large.

    The rising numbers of measles cases are a concern as they represent real people and real risks. The current measles situation in Canada is a public health challenge and a critical moment for awareness and action. From urban centres like Toronto and Montréal to smaller communities across the provinces, an emerging pattern demands attention and understanding.

    Outbreaks in Canada

    Current measles outbreaks in Canada are primarily affecting Ontario and Québec. In Ontario, 57 confirmed cases have been documented in 2025, as of Feb. 13. Meanwhile, Québec is experiencing its second outbreak, with 24 confirmed cases reported this year, as of Feb. 21. An earlier outbreak in Québec involved 51 cases from February to June 2024.

    This resurgence can be attributed to several factors, including declining vaccination rates, international travel reintroducing the virus into Canada and the highly contagious nature of measles.

    Vaccination rates for the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine have dropped to approximately 82.5 per cent, a significant decline observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. This reduction has created a population of highly susceptible individuals, undermining community immunity — commonly referred to as herd immunity — which requires a vaccination coverage of 95 per cent to effectively prevent outbreaks.

    How measles spreads

    Measles is also one of the most contagious infectious diseases, with a basic reproduction number (R₀) of 12–18. This means that, in a fully susceptible population, one case of measles can lead to an average of 12–18 secondary cases. For the current outbreak, although the initial source was linked to international travel, the majority of cases are now the result of local transmission within Canada, highlighting the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage and swift public health interventions.

    Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease that spreads easily through respiratory droplets. When an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes, they release virus particles into the air. These particles can remain infectious for up to two hours, even after the person has left the area. What makes measles particularly challenging to control is its extended period of contagiousness.

    An infected individual can spread the virus from four days before the characteristic rash appears until four days after its onset. This means people can unknowingly transmit the disease before they even realize they’re infected.

    The virus’s ability to spread before symptoms appear, combined with its long contagious period, makes it difficult to contain outbreaks once they begin. This is why maintaining high vaccination rates across the population is crucial. It’s not just about individual protection, but about safeguarding the entire community, especially those who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical conditions.

    While anyone who isn’t immune either through vaccination or previous infection can contract measles, certain groups — including pregnant women, immunocompromised patients and unvaccinated children under age five — are at higher risk of complications including pneumonia and brain swelling.

    Protecting individuals and communities

    The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective, with two doses providing up to 99 per cent protection.
    (Shutterstock)

    The message from health-care providers is clear: vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. Here’s what you can do:

    1. Ensure vaccination is up to date: The measles vaccine is typically combined with mumps and rubella (MMR) or with varicella (MMRV). Two doses of the vaccine are 99 per cent effective at preventing infection.
    2. Check your immunization records: If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, consult your health-care provider or check your Personal Immunization Record.
    3. Vaccinate children on schedule: In Ontario, children receive two doses of the measles vaccine before age seven as part of routine vaccinations.
    4. Consider early vaccination for infants: In areas with ongoing outbreaks, infants as young as six months may be eligible for early vaccination. Contact your health-care provider before travel for their advice.
      Plan ahead for travel: If you’re traveling internationally, consult a health-care provider at least six weeks before your trip to review your immunization history.
    5. Be aware of the symptoms: high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a characteristic rash.

    If you suspect you or someone in your family has measles, call your health-care provider before visiting a medical facility. This allows them to take necessary precautions to prevent further spread.

    Vaccination is our most effective tool against measles. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective, with two doses providing up to 99 per cent protection. By maintaining high vaccination rates across our communities, we can prevent outbreaks and protect those who can’t be vaccinated due to age or medical conditions. As we navigate this situation, it’s crucial to stay informed and follow public health guidelines. Together, we can work to contain these outbreaks and protect the health of all Canadians.

    The resurgence of measles in Canada is a stark reminder that we cannot take our public health achievements for granted. Vaccination has been one of the most successful public health interventions in history, saving millions of lives. By working together — health-care providers, parents and communities — we can turn the tide on this resurgence and protect our most vulnerable populations from this preventable disease.

    Measles is not just a childhood illness or a simple rash. It’s a serious disease with potentially severe complications. But with vigilance, education and a commitment to vaccination, we can once again push measles to the brink of elimination in Canada. The health of our communities depends on it.

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

    – ref. Measles: A resurgent threat in Canada – https://theconversation.com/measles-a-resurgent-threat-in-canada-249932

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s tariff and land grab threats signal U.S. expansionist ambitions

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ilan Kapoor, Professor, Critical Development Studies, York University, Canada

    When U.S. President Donald Trump first suggested Canada should become the 51st American state, the federal government dismissed it as just a joke. Finance Minister Dominic Leblanc insisted it was “in no way a serious comment.”

    Similar skepticism was expressed by political leaders across the world when Trump talked about seizing Greenland and the Panama Canal in early January, by military force if necessary, to buttress U.S. national security. He also floated the idea of taking over Gaza to transform it into the “Riviera of the Middle East.”

    Now that Trump has carried through on his aggressive economic threats — launching a trade war with China and raising the possibility of similar conflicts with Canada, Mexico and the European Union — his imperialist expansionism is in plain sight.

    Canadian leaders have come to realize that Trump’s actions may not be a temporary or minor irritant, but rather an attack on Canadian sovereignty itself.

    The failure to take Trump’s words seriously is reminiscent of British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain’s skepticism in 1938 that Hitler would actually risk world war despite the latter’s aggressive rhetoric, annexation of Austria and threats to Czechoslovakia and Poland.

    What, then, have been the signs of Trump’s expansionist tendencies? American economic and military might, albeit declining relative to emerging powers like China and India, still provides a solid basis for the projection of U.S. supremacy. But there are also two new key elements at play.

    A billionaire-corporate administration

    The Trump administration appears to operate with a distinctly corporate mindset, treating the nation like a business empire. Trump has stacked his administration with private sector leaders and corporate billionaires such as Elon Musk, Doug Burgum and Howard Lutnick.

    Like other billionaires, their immense business success has been founded not on mainstay competitive market practices like productivity or cost-cutting, but on predatory and cannibalistic ones.

    These include controlling resources like oil, gold, diamonds and coltan to secure production inputs; buying out competitors to monopolize markets and patents; and deliberately breaking up and destroying companies through mergers and acquisitions with little regard for the resulting job losses.

    It is within this framework that Trump’s allegations about buying Greenland and Gaza, annexing Canada through “economic force” and capturing the Panama Canal need to be seen.



    Read more:
    Billionaires and loyalists will provide Trump with muscle during his second term

    Under the guise of national security, the idea is not simply to safeguard borders, but to engage in economic expansionism and real estate development, aided by the U.S. military when needed. Taking control of land, waterways and mineral wealth is critical to building “America’s Golden Age” of corporate capitalism.

    This approach seems to be a mainly business one, with little concern for the social costs (recession, unemployment, violence) produced by such imperialistic ventures. In line with his infamous book, The Art of the Deal, Trump appears to view foreign nations and domestic opponents alike as obstacles to be callously bullied, degraded, manipulated, exploited and finally vanquished.

    American nationalist populism

    The Trump administration’s imperial ambitions lie in the nationalist populism that propelled Trump and his allies into power for the second time.

    Trump’s populism has successfully tapped into widespread anxieties among Americans — job insecurity, food prices, the housing crisis — by promising to soothe their worries through the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) agenda.



    Read more:
    Trump’s view of the world is becoming clear: America’s allies come second to its own interests

    Like other right-wing populist movements around the globe — Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s in Turkey, Viktor Orbán’s in Hungary and the Brexit campaign in the U.K. — the MAGA movement has sought to unify the U.S. by identifying and targeting perceived national enemies. These include so-called “illegal” migrants, transgender people and the country’s largest trading rivals: Mexico, Canada and China.

    By blaming these groups, especially those seen as contributing to America’s economic decline, MAGA whips up nationalist sentiment in the form of suspicion, aggression and vengeance. The result is a deeply polarized nationalist discourse in which one is either a loyal supporter or an enemy; a believer or a “woke” liberal.

    A lethal imperial set-up

    The combination of U.S. global power, nationalist populism and the Trump administration’s corporate-driven, predatory approach makes for a dangerous dynamic.

    This mix is fuelling a form of economic expansionism that is now beginning to manifest itself. The impending trade wars, potential dismantling of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (which Trump initiated in 2018 to avoid unilateral trade moves by its signatories) and the brazen disregard for the socioeconomic consequences of foreign territorial control, such as the forced displacement of Palestinians, are all signs of this.

    While many assumed Trump’s administration would be protectionist and isolationist, a more troubling and nefarious reality is emerging. His administration appears to be intent on securing America’s industrial dominance through trade wars while expanding it through hawkish economic imperialism.

    There is a clear ruthlessness to this approach, with a willingness to pressure not only America’s perceived enemies but also its allies. “America First” is starting to looks like “America Above All Others” as Trump attempts to bully U.S. rivals into subordination, with disturbing echoes of past authoritarians.

    Unravelling American imperial designs

    Many obstacles could prevent Trump’s aggressive expansionism from fully taking shape. While the key ingredients may already be there, and some have begun to be deployed, that doesn’t mean they will come to fruition.

    The Trump administration’s policymaking process is often chaotic and theatrical, prioritizing short-term political gains over long-term strategy. This instability undermines any consistent efforts at expansion.

    There is also the risk that Trump’s trade wars will backfire. They could end up causing hardship to U.S. companies and consumers through higher food and energy prices, job losses in key industries like agriculture and auto manufacturing, and increased stock market instability. Such consequences could negatively affect Trump’s corporate allies.

    Meanwhile, Trump’s economic and military rivals could forge new alliances to challenge his attempts at global supremacy. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, for instance, recently met with the head of NATO and other European allies to strengthen trade and security ties.

    The first step to any countermoves by Trump’s foreign adversaries will be seeing his regime’s designs for what they are: chaotic, perhaps, but serious expansionist ones.

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

    – ref. Trump’s tariff and land grab threats signal U.S. expansionist ambitions – https://theconversation.com/trumps-tariff-and-land-grab-threats-signal-u-s-expansionist-ambitions-249924

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –