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Category: China

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Feel China’ cultural days open in Mongolia

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A series of cultural events promoting northern China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region officially kicked off in Ulan Bator, capital of Mongolia, on Monday.

    The “Feel China” cultural days, co-organized by the Chinese Embassy in Mongolia, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth of Mongolia, and the Information Office of the People’s Government of Inner Mongolia, aim to deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges between China and Mongolia, enhance their longstanding friendship, and celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

    The opening ceremony was attended by Jiang Xinhui, director of the Information Office of the People’s Government of Inner Mongolia, Zhang Muxing, acting ambassador and minister counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Mongolia, Adiyasuren Davaajargal, state secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth of Mongolia, as well as other officials and representatives from both countries.

    Davaajargal said he hopes that the series of events will further enhance cultural relations between China and Mongolia and promote cross-border tourism.

    Jiang said that, as a neighboring region, the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region has leveraged its geographical proximity and cultural affinity to serve as a crucial bridge for cooperation between China and Mongolia across various fields, including economic and trade exchanges, cultural collaborations, medical and health care, and ecological conservation.

    “With our joint efforts, the ‘Feel China’ event has been successfully held in Mongolia for many consecutive years. We have consistently adhered to our mission of promoting people-to-people exchanges and strengthening friendship, allowing Mongolian friends to better understand China and Inner Mongolia,” he said.

    The five-day series of events includes Shaolin martial arts performances, the inauguration of a Chinese book reading classroom at a Mongolian university, free health check-ups, and screenings of Chinese movies on Mongolian television and in cinemas, among other activities.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: New virtual project introduces a bee’s perspective

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    X Virtual Gathering: Honey, a new project of X Museum’s digital art platform X Virtual, was launched on Thursday in Beijing with an exhibition and a video game featuring commissions of multiple creatives from home and abroad.

    Upon entering the exhibition, visitors are first grabbed by the electronic music laced with a buzzing noise playing in the game, the interface of which is projected on the wall. They are invited to pick up the controller to start the game, becoming a bee busy gathering honey.

    As the worker bee, depicted in a futuristic, robotic and metallic style, flies through various apocalyptic landscapes, including a mysterious jungle and an erupting volcano, eight music pieces, which each represents a specific event, are triggered as it moves through different levels within the game, immersing the player in an adventure with a bee’s perspective.

    On view is also an installation by London-based artist Zhang Ling, better known as 00 Zhang, who designed the video game and its visual art. The audience can also enjoy the eight music works, individually displayed and each paired with a music video. Ranging from experimental electronic and dance music to free jazz and ambient, the intentionally diverse music tracks were composed by eight musicians, including 33EMYBW, Gooooose, Jana Rush, and Hyph11E.

    “As an abstract medium, music alters and challenges the participant’s senses, urging them to rethink ecological justice and species justice,” said Wu Dongxue, X Museum’s chief curator, who co-curated the show with 33EMYBW, a Shanghai-based producer and artist.

    According to the curators, this project explores the vast, interconnected world of bees and how it influences ideas around ecology, human civilization, and capitalism. It is an urgent response to crises such as resource depletion and a net loss of biodiversity that we humans are faced with, as well as the slowly widening division between civilization and nature through technological revolutions.

    “Once viewed with reverence, nature is now often exploited, stripped of its mystery and spirituality. Inorganic structures replace organic ones, pushing a capitalist narrative that centers on consumption and production,” Wu said.

    The game Honey will be available for download through X Museum’s online platform. At the end of 2024, the project will also release an eponymous vinyl record, which will be distributed globally.

    Launched by X Museum in 2019, X Virtual fosters new artistic 3D spaces within virtual worlds by commissioning artists to create new digital works and organizing online and offline exhibitions, workshops, and talks. X Virtual aims to promote new thoughts, discussions, and interdisciplinary practices in relation to emerging Web3-centered technologies, including XR, AI, and game engines.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Books explore ancient Greek influences on Asia and emerging Silk Road

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Some 2,100 to 1,800 years ago in what is today’s northwestern Pakistan, the Gandharan civilization produced sculptures of Buddha and other Buddhist figures with the features of Greek gods wrapped in aristocratic robes.

    The Gandhara art persisted until the 7th century and had some influence on the Buddhist sculptures seen in China and other East Asian countries.

    “The Buddhist art of Gandhara has amazed and puzzled modern observers since its rediscovery in the 19th century, for the artists of Gandhara … took imagery and styles that ultimately originated in ancient Greece, and they made them Buddhist and Asian, and thereby introduced them into the later traditions of Chinese Buddhist art,” says Peter Stewart, professor of ancient art and director of the Classical Art Research Centre at the University of Oxford.

    “They, and that story (of Gandhara), are emblematic of the fascinating filaments that run through all the periods and places explored in this publication,” Stewart says, speaking of the six-volume publication of From Mediterranean to the Yellow River: Hellenistic Civilization and the Silk Road, via video during the book’s signing ceremony for the production of an English version at this year’s Frankfurt Book Fair in October.

    Stewart is coeditor of the fourth volume, From Apollo to Buddha: Hellenistic Art and the Silk Road Arts, which deals with the dissemination and fusion of art, and which according to him, “traces Western classical art traditions from its Greek origins, looking at how it was disseminated and transformed in the Hellenistic world, how it became the heritage of the Roman Empire, and how it eventually became deeply embedded in the cultures of Central Asia and the steppe”.

    Stewart is among the 40-odd researchers and contributors from across the world, who spent almost 10 years finishing the interdisciplinary studies, which were published by the Zhonghua Book Company as a series of books containing around 1,500 pictures.

    “The project was vast, but at its heart was a simple proposition — that two distinct areas (the Hellenistic civilization and the Silk Road) of study were intimately connected and could usefully be researched and explained alongside each other,” Stewart says.

    “Hellenistic civilization and the Silk Road seem to be two unrelated research fields, but in fact, there is an intrinsic logical relationship between them,” says Yang Juping, the book’s chief editor and a leading professor of Hellenism at Nankai University.

    Yang says that the vast empire established by Alexander the Great, and the Hellenistic world he created that extended from the Mediterranean to Central Asia and the borders of India, laid the foundation for the opening of the Silk Road later on. Meanwhile, the ambitions of the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220) rulers to manage the western regions of their territory and the “exploration” of Central Asia by Zhang Qian ushered in a new era of cultural exchange and mutual learning between the Chinese and Hellenistic civilizations.

    “The series is one of the first comprehensive studies of the relationship between the Hellenistic civilization and the Silk Road in China and abroad,” Yang says, adding that the perspective the book brings opens up a new field of research, and has allowed the voices of Chinese scholars to be heard on a global stage on matters that were little known or long disputed.

    Each volume has a specific theme, but they are interconnected, and examine the general picture, the historical background, the cities, the currencies and the economic overview of the two areas, along with the Hellenistic heritage in China and along the Silk Road.

    The publishing group Springer Nature will serve as an amplifier of these voices by bringing the series to a wider international audience with an English version.

    “Today, we are not just releasing a book series, but also launching a dialogue that spans continents and centuries,” says Niels Peter Thomas, Springer Nature’s managing director for books.

    Zhang Jihai, deputy editor-in-chief of the Zhonghua Book Company, believes that the series will provide valuable historical references for the Belt and Road Initiative, and be a delight to general readers, providing a glimpse of the overall picture of ancient cultural exchanges between China and the West.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Satellite payload items go on display

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Security Bureau, together with the disciplined services and auxiliary forces under its umbrella, will hold an exhibition to showcase the cultural and creative items carried by the Shijian-19 satellite during a recent mission.

    This six-day exhibition, due to commence tomorrow at the Space Museum foyer, aims to enhance citizens’ sense of national pride and deepen their understanding of the disciplined and auxiliary services.

    The items selected by the bureau include a national security-themed comic, a Security Bear plush toy, and promotional items featuring the cultural characteristics of Sha Tau Kok.

    Meanwhile, other items sent into space that were selected by the disciplined and auxiliary services comprise mascots of different services, samples of a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport and identity card, as well as departmental souvenirs.

    Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung earlier officiated at an unboxing ceremony, during which he presented the items and space payload certificates to the heads of the respective services.

    Apart from noting that the space programme involved China’s first reusable and returnable test satellite, which successfully accomplished its return mission, Mr Tang highlighted that the programme marks a significant breakthrough in aerospace technologies, demonstrating the nation’s remarkable progress in space exploration.

    The payloads also symbolised the spirit of the disciplined services in embracing the pursuit of dreams and innovation, he added.

    The Shijian-19 satellite was launched on September 27 and returned safely on October 11.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation Announces Third Quarter 2024 Financial and Operational Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — International Petroleum Corporation (IPC or the Corporation) (TSX, Nasdaq Stockholm: IPCO) today released its financial and operational results and related management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024.

    William Lundin, IPC’s President and Chief Executive Officer, comments: “We are pleased to announce another positive quarter of operational performance. IPC achieved average net daily production during the third quarter of 45,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd), following planned maintenance shutdowns during the quarter. We also continue to purchase IPC common shares under the normal course issuer bid (NCIB). We have now almost completed the 2023/2024 NCIB, reducing the outstanding number of common shares by over 6% since the beginning of December 2023. We intend to seek Toronto Stock Exchange approval to renew the NCIB in December 2024. We are also pleased to report on the progress achieved at the Blackrod Phase 1 development in Canada, which remains on schedule and on budget.”

    Q3 2024 Business Highlights

    • Average net production of approximately 45,000 boepd for Q3 2024, in line with guidance (49% heavy crude oil, 17% light and medium crude oil and 34% natural gas).(1)
    • Successful completion of planned maintenance shutdowns at Onion Lake Thermal (OLT) in Canada and the Bertam field in Malaysia.
    • Drilling activity at the Suffield area in Canada continued with four wells drilled in Q3 2024 and completed by October 2024.
    • Development activities on Phase 1 of the Blackrod project continue to progress on schedule and on budget, with forecast first oil in late 2026.
    • 2.6 million IPC common shares purchased and cancelled during Q3 2024 under IPC’s normal course issuer bid (NCIB), on track to complete the 2023/2024 NCIB during November 2024.
    • IPC plans to seek Toronto Stock Exchange approval for the renewal of the NCIB in December 2024.

    Q3 2024 Financial Highlights

    • Operating costs per boe of USD 17.9 for Q3 2024, below guidance.(3)
    • Operating cash flow (OCF) and Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) of MUSD 73 and MUSD 68 respectively in line with guidance for Q3 2024.(3)
    • Capital and decommissioning expenditures of MUSD 102 for Q3 2024, in line with guidance.
    • Free cash flow (FCF) for Q3 2024 amounted to MUSD -38 (MUSD 44 pre-Blackrod Phase 1 project funding).(3)
    • Gross cash of MUSD 299 and net debt of MUSD 157 as at September 30, 2024.(3)
    • Net result of MUSD 23 for Q3 2024.

    Reserves and Resources

    • Total 2P reserves as at December 31, 2023 of 468 MMboe, with a reserves life index (RLI) of 27 years.(1)(2)
    • Contingent resources (best estimate, unrisked) as at December 31, 2023 of 1,145 MMboe.(1)(2)

    2024 Annual Guidance

    • Full year 2024 average net production guidance range maintained at 46,000 to 48,000 boepd.(1)
    • Full year 2024 operating costs guidance revised to below USD 18 per boe.(3)
    • Full year 2024 OCF guidance estimated at between MUSD 335 and 342, assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024.(3)
    • Full year 2024 capital and decommissioning expenditures guidance forecast maintained at MUSD 437.
    • Full year 2024 FCF guidance estimated at between MUSD -140 and -133 (between MUSD 222 and 229 pre-Blackrod Phase 1 project funding), assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024.(3)
      Three months ended
    September 30    		   Nine months ended
    September 30
    USD Thousands 2024   2023     2024   2023  
    Revenue 173,200   257,366     598,659   655,446  
    Gross profit 39,505   93,429     167,397   210,559  
    Net result 22,875   71,681     101,804   143,269  
    Operating cash flow (3) 72,589   119,142     263,831   279,414  
    Free cash flow (3) (38,269 ) 34,703     (74,021 ) 67,379  
    EBITDA (3) 68,313   123,054     259,304   284,334  
    Net cash/(debt) (3) (157,228 ) 83,097     (157,228 ) 83,097  
                       

    Oil prices softened in the third quarter with Brent prices averaging USD 80 per barrel compared with USD 85 per barrel in the second quarter. Volatility during the quarter was high with Brent prices ranging from USD 89 per barrel in July to USD 70 per barrel in September. Notwithstanding the volatility in prices, the crude market was in a deficit through the third quarter, aided by the proactive supply management by the OPEC+ group. The continued conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine led to increased oil prices, though these were partially offset by concerns over global oil demand growth, in particular consumer and industrial demand in China. Despite some of these negative factors, the physical market remains tight with OECD crude stock levels below the five-year average, with oil demand expected to be at an all-time high in 2024 and continue to grow in 2025. Approximately 50% of IPC’s forecast 2024 oil production is hedged at USD 80 per barrel WTI or USD 85 per barrel Dated Brent through to the end of 2024.

    The third quarter 2024 WTI to Western Canadian Select (WCS) price differentials averaged just under USD 14 per barrel, in line with the second quarter and approximately USD 5 per barrel lower than the first quarter differential average of USD 19 per barrel. The Trans Mountain expansion (TMX) pipeline continues to support tighter differentials with the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin (WCSB) now having excess spare pipeline capacity for the first time in more than a decade. Crude exports from the new TMX pipeline are flowing off the coast of British Columbia, with deliveries to the US West Coast and Asia creating new end destinations for Canadian heavy oil. Around 70% of our forecast 2024 Canadian WCS production volumes are hedged at a WTI/WCS differential of USD 15 per barrel.

    Natural gas prices in Canada remained suppressed in the third quarter, with AECO pricing averaging CAD 0.67 per Mcf during the period, compared to CAD 1.17 per Mcf average for the second quarter. This has led to some Canadian natural gas producers curtailing production as western Canada gas storage levels continue to sit above the five-year range. IPC implemented hedges during the third quarter for approximately 14,500 Mcf per day at CAD 1.57 per Mcf from August to year end 2024.

    Third Quarter 2024 Highlights and Full Year 2024 Guidance

    IPC delivered average daily production rates of 45,000 boepd for the third quarter. The average daily production for the first nine months of 2024 was 47,400 boepd and the full year Capital Markets Day (CMD) production guidance of 46,000 to 48,000 boepd is maintained. During the third quarter, planned maintenance shutdowns at the Onion Lake Thermal (OLT) asset in Canada and at the Bertam field in Malaysia were successfully completed. High uptimes were achieved across all major producing assets in our portfolio during the quarter and the business benefited from the oil wells drilled within our Southern Alberta assets and the new wells brought on stream from sustaining Pad L at the OLT asset.(1)

    Operating costs in the third quarter of 2024 were below forecast at USD 17.9 per boe. The lower costs were largely driven by lower energy input costs within our Canadian asset base. Full year 2024 operating costs guidance is revised to less than USD 18 per boe, below the CMD guidance range of USD 18 to 19 per boe.(3)

    Operating cash flow (OCF) for the third quarter of 2024 was USD 73 million in line with forecast. Full year 2024 OCF guidance is revised to USD 335 to 342 million (assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024).(3)

    Capital and decommissioning expenditure for the third quarter was in line with plan at USD 102 million. Our full year 2024 capital and decommissioning expenditure guidance is unchanged at USD 437 million.

    Free cash flow (FCF) was USD -38 million (or USD 44 million pre-Blackrod Phase 1 development funding) during the third quarter of 2024. Full year 2024 FCF guidance is revised to USD -140 to -133 million (or USD 222 to 229 million pre-Blackrod Phase 1 development funding) assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024.(3)

    Net debt was increased during the third quarter of 2024 by approximately USD 69 million to USD 157 million.(3) This is due to the growth capital expenditure at the Blackrod Phase 1 project and continued funding of the normal course issuer bid (NCIB) share repurchase program. The gross cash position as at September 30, 2024 was USD 299 million. In the third quarter, IPC enhanced its financing position by entering into a letter of credit facility in Canada to cover all of its existing operational letters of credit, giving full availability under IPC’s undrawn CAD 180 million Revolving Credit Facility.

    With a robust balance sheet and strong cashflow generation from the producing assets, IPC is strongly positioned to deliver on our three strategic pillars of organic growth, shareholder returns and pursue value-adding M&A.

    Blackrod Phase 1 Project

    The Blackrod asset is 100% owned by IPC and hosts the largest booked reserves and contingent resources within the IPC portfolio. After more than a decade of pilot operations, subsurface delineation and commercial engineering studies, IPC sanctioned the Phase 1 development in the first quarter of 2023. The Phase 1 development targets 218 MMboe of 2P reserves, with a multi-year forecast capital expenditure of USD 850 million to first oil planned in late 2026. The Phase 1 development is planned for plateau production of 30,000 bopd which is expected by early 2028.(1)(2)

    2024 marks a peak investment year at the Blackrod Phase 1 project for IPC, with USD 362 million planned to be spent in the year. Project progress has advanced according to plan, with approximately USD 245 million spent through the first nine months of 2024. All major third-party contracts have been executed, including but not limited to, the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) agreements for the central processing facility (CPF) and well pad facilities, midstream agreements for the input fuel gas, diluent and oil blend pipelines, and drilling rig and stakeholder agreements. All major long lead items have been procured and pre-operations onboarding continues as the asset undergoes rapid change from a pilot steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) operation to a commercial SAGD operation. IPC’s core operational philosophy is to responsibly develop and commission projects with the staff that are going to manage and operate the asset to ensure the seamless transition from development to operations.

    As at the end of the third quarter of 2024, over half of the Blackrod Phase 1 development capital had been spent since the project sanction in early 2023. All major work streams are progressing as planned and the focus continues to be on executing the detailed sequencing of events as facility modules are safely delivered and installed at site. The total Phase 1 project guidance of USD 850 million capital expenditure to first oil in late 2026 is unchanged. IPC intends to fund the remaining Blackrod Phase 1 development costs with forecast cash flow generated by its operations and cash on hand.

    Stakeholder Returns: Normal Course Issuer Bid

    Under the current 2023/2024 NCIB, IPC has the ability to repurchase up to approximately 8.3 million common shares over the period of December 5, 2023 to December 4, 2024. IPC repurchased and cancelled approximately 7.5 million common shares up to the end of September 2024. The average price of common shares purchased under the 2023/2024 NCIB was SEK 132 / CAD 17 per share. IPC expects to complete the 2023/2024 NCIB during November 2024, resulting in the cancellation of 6.5% of the total number of common shares outstanding as at the beginning of December 2023.

    As at September 30, 2024, IPC had a total of 120,751,038 common shares issued and outstanding and IPC held 30,000 common shares in treasury. As at October 31, 2024, IPC had a total of 120,244,638 common shares issued and outstanding and IPC held 44,400 common shares in treasury.

    The IPC Board of Directors has approved, subject to acceptance by the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), the renewal of IPC’s NCIB for a further twelve months from December 2024 to December 2025. We expect that the 2024/2025 NCIB will permit IPC to purchase on the TSX and/or Nasdaq Stockholm, and cancel, up to a further approximately 7.5 million common shares, representing approximately 6.2% of the total outstanding common shares (or 10% of IPC’s “public float” under applicable TSX rules) following completion of the current 2023/2024 NCIB. IPC continues to believe that reducing the number of common shares outstanding while in parallel investing in material production growth at the Blackrod project will prove to be a winning formula for our stakeholders.

    Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Performance

    As part of IPC’s commitment to operational excellence and responsible development, its objective is to reduce risk and eliminate hazards to prevent occurrence of accidents, ill health, and environmental damage, as these are essential to the success of our business operations. During the third quarter of 2024, IPC recorded no material safety or environmental incidents.

    As previously announced, IPC targets a reduction of our net GHG emissions intensity by the end of 2025 to 50% of IPC’s 2019 baseline and IPC remains on track to achieve this reduction. During the first quarter of 2024, IPC announced the commitment to remain at end 2025 levels of 20 kg CO2/boe through to the end of 2028.(4)

    Notes:

    (1) See “Supplemental Information regarding Product Types” in “Reserves and Resources Advisory” below. See also the annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023 (AIF) available on IPC’s website at www.international-petroleum.com and under IPC’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.
    (2) See “Reserves and Resources Advisory“ below. Further information with respect to IPC’s reserves, contingent resources and estimates of future net revenue, including assumptions relating to the calculation of NPV, are described in the AIF.
    (3) Non-IFRS measures, see “Non-IFRS Measures” below and in the MD&A.
    (4) Emissions intensity is the ratio between oil and gas production and the associated carbon emissions, and net emissions intensity reflects gross emissions less operational emission reductions and carbon offsets.

    International Petroleum Corp. (IPC) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with a high quality portfolio of assets located in Canada, Malaysia and France, providing a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth. IPC is a member of the Lundin Group of Companies. IPC is incorporated in Canada and IPC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange under the symbol “IPCO”.

    For further information, please contact:

    Rebecca Gordon
    SVP Corporate Planning and Investor Relations
    rebecca.gordon@international-petroleum.com
    Tel: +41 22 595 10 50    		       Or       Robert Eriksson
    Media Manager
    reriksson@rive6.ch
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15
             

    This information is information that International Petroleum Corporation is required to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the contact persons set out above, at 07:30 CET on November 5, 2024. The Corporation’s unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements (Financial Statements) and management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 have been filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and are also available on the Corporation’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements and information which constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (within the meaning of applicable securities legislation). Such statements and information (together, “forward-looking statements”) relate to future events, including the Corporation’s future performance, business prospects or opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, unless otherwise indicated. IPC does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

    All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, forecasts, guidance, budgets, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “forecast”, “predict”, “potential”, “targeting”, “intend”, “could”, “might”, “should”, “believe”, “budget” and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”.

    Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to:

    • 2024 production ranges (including total daily average production), production composition, cash flows, operating costs and capital and decommissioning expenditure estimates;
    • Estimates of future production, cash flows, operating costs and capital expenditures that are based on IPC’s current business plans and assumptions regarding the business environment, which are subject to change;
    • IPC’s financial and operational flexibility to continue to react to recent events and navigate the Corporation through periods of volatile commodity prices;
    • The ability to fully fund future expenditures from cash flows and current borrowing capacity;
    • IPC’s intention and ability to continue to implement strategies to build long-term shareholder value;
    • The ability of IPC’s portfolio of assets to provide a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth;
    • The continued facility uptime and reservoir performance in IPC’s areas of operation;
    • Development of the Blackrod project in Canada, including estimates of resource volumes, future production, timing, regulatory approvals, third party commercial arrangements, breakeven prices and net present value;
    • Current and future production performance, operations and development potential of the Onion Lake Thermal, Suffield, Brooks, Ferguson and Mooney operations, including the timing and success of future oil and gas drilling and optimization programs;
    • The potential improvement in the Canadian oil egress situation and IPC’s ability to benefit from any such improvements;
    • The ability to maintain current and forecast production in France and Malaysia;
    • The intention and ability of IPC to acquire further common shares under the NCIB, including the timing of any such purchases;
    • The ability of IPC to renew the NCIB and the number of common shares which may be purchased under a renewed NCIB;
    • The return of value to IPC’s shareholders as a result of the NCIB;
    • The ability of IPC to implement further shareholder distributions in addition to the NCIB;
    • IPC’s ability to implement its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity and climate strategies and to achieve its net GHG emissions intensity reduction targets;
    • IPC’s ability to implement projects to reduce net emissions intensity, including potential carbon capture and storage;
    • Estimates of reserves and contingent resources;
    • The ability to generate free cash flows and use that cash to repay debt;
    • IPC’s continued access to its existing credit facilities, including current financial headroom, on terms acceptable to the Corporation;
    • IPC’s ability to maintain operations, production and business in light of any future pandemics and the restrictions and disruptions related thereto, including risks related to production delays and interruptions, changes in laws and regulations and reliance on third-party operators and infrastructure;
    • IPC’s ability to identify and complete future acquisitions;
    • Expectations regarding the oil and gas industry in Canada, Malaysia and France, including assumptions regarding future royalty rates, regulatory approvals, legislative changes, and ongoing projects and their expected completion; and
    • Future drilling and other exploration and development activities.

    Statements relating to “reserves” and “contingent resources” are also deemed to be forward-looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the reserves and resources described exist in the quantities predicted or estimated and that the reserves and resources can be profitably produced in the future. Ultimate recovery of reserves or resources is based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management.

    Although IPC believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because IPC can give no assurances that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks.

    These include, but are not limited to general global economic, market and business conditions; the risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general such as operational risks in development, exploration and production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to reserves, resources, production, revenues, costs and expenses; health, safety and environmental risks; commodity price fluctuations; interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations; marketing and transportation; loss of markets; environmental and climate-related risks; competition; innovation and cybersecurity risks related to our systems, including our costs of addressing or mitigating such risks; the ability to attract, engage and retain skilled employees; incorrect assessment of the value of acquisitions; failure to complete or realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions or dispositions; the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources; failure to obtain required regulatory and other approvals; geopolitical conflicts, including the war between Ukraine and Russia and the conflict in the Middle East, and their potential impact on, among other things, global market conditions; and changes in legislation, including but not limited to tax laws, royalties, environmental and abandonment regulations.

    Additional information on these and other factors that could affect IPC, or its operations or financial results, are included in the MD&A (See “Risk Factors”, “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information” and “Reserves and Resources Advisory” therein), the Corporation’s Annual Information Form (AIF) for the year ended December 31, 2023, (See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information”, “Reserves and Resources Advisory” and “Risk Factors”) and other reports on file with applicable securities regulatory authorities, including previous financial reports, management’s discussion and analysis and material change reports, which may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca) or IPC’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

    Management of IPC approved the production, operating costs, operating cash flow, capital and decommissioning expenditures and free cash flow guidance and estimates contained herein as of the date of this press release. The purpose of these guidance and estimates is to assist readers in understanding IPC’s expected and targeted financial results, and this information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

    Non-IFRS Measures
    References are made in this press release to “operating cash flow” (OCF), “free cash flow” (FCF), “Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization” (EBITDA), “operating costs” and “net debt”/”net cash”, which are not generally accepted accounting measures under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable with similar measures presented by other public companies. Non-IFRS measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS.

    The definition of each non-IFRS measure is presented in IPC’s MD&A (See “Non-IFRS Measures” therein).

    Operating cash flow
    The following table sets out how operating cash flow is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

      Three months ended September 30   Nine months ended September 30
    USD Thousands 2024   2023     2024   2023  
    Revenue 173,200   257,366     598,659   655,446  
    Production costs (100,984 ) (130,765 )   (328,110 ) (364,889 )
    Current tax 373   (7,459 )   (6,718 ) (16,045 )
    Operating cash flow 72,589   119,142     263,831   274,512  
                       

    The operating cash flow for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the operating cash flow contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 279,414 thousand.

    Free cash flow
    The following table sets out how free cash flow is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

      Three months ended September 30   Nine months ended September 30
    USD Thousands 2024   2023     2024   2023  
    Operating cash flow – see above 72,589   119,142     263,831   274,512  
    Capital expenditures (99,100 ) (76,844 )   (308,457 ) (183,904 )
    Abandonment and farm-in expenditures1 (2,575 ) (2,755 )   (4,938 ) (7,683 )
    General, administration and depreciation expenses before depreciation2 (3,903 ) (3,547 )   (11,245 ) (11,124 )
    Cash financial items3 (5,280 ) (1,293 )   (13,212 ) (3,593 )
    Free cash flow (38,269 ) 34,703     (74,021 ) 68,208  

    1 See note 16 to the Financial Statements
    2 Depreciation is not specifically disclosed in the Financial Statements
    3 See notes 4 and 5 to the Financial Statements

    The free cash flow for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the free cash flow contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 67,379 thousand.

    EBITDA
    The following table sets out the reconciliation from net result from the consolidated statement of operations to EBITDA:

      Three months ended September 30   Nine months ended September 30
    USD Thousands 2024   2023     2024   2023  
    Net result 22,875   71,681     101,804   143,269  
    Net financial items 4,124   4,257     23,942   16,227  
    Income tax 8,257   25,451     29,473   50,671  
    Depletion and decommissioning costs 30,491   31,687     96,305   71,488  
    Depreciation of other tangible fixed assets 2,023   1,509     6,503   6,503  
    Exploration and business development costs 197   (24 )   344   2,007  
    Depreciation included in general, administration and depreciation expenses 1 346   405     933   1,180  
    Sale of Assets –   (11,912 )   –   (11,912 )
    EBITDA 68,313   123,054     259,304   279,433  

    1 Item is not shown in the Financial Statements

    The EBITDA for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the EBITDA contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 284,334 thousand.

    Operating costs
    The following table sets out how operating costs is calculated:

      Three months ended September 30   Nine months ended September 30
    USD Thousands 2024   2023     2024   2023  
    Production costs 100,984   130,765     328,110   364,889  
    Cost of blending (29,818 ) (39,836 )   (116,699 ) (128,523 )
    Change in inventory position 2,755   (8,067 )   3,160   2,228  
    Operating costs 73,921   82,862     214,571   238,594  

    The operating costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the operating costs contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 245,395 thousand.

    Net cash/(debt)
    The following table sets out how net cash/(debt) is calculated:

    USD Thousands September 30, 2024   December 31, 2023  
    Bank loans (6,431 ) (9,031 )
    Bonds1 (450,000 ) (450,000 )
    Cash and cash equivalents 299,203   517,074  
    Net cash/(debt) (157,228 ) 58,043  

    1 The bond amount represents the redeemable value at maturity (February 2027).

    Reserves and Resources Advisory
    This press release contains references to estimates of gross and net reserves and resources attributed to the Corporation’s oil and gas assets. For additional information with respect to such reserves and resources, refer to “Reserves and Resources Advisory” in the MD&A. Light, medium and heavy crude oil reserves/resources disclosed in this press release include solution gas and other by-products. Also see “Supplemental Information regarding Product Types” below.

    Reserve estimates, contingent resource estimates and estimates of future net revenue in respect of IPC’s oil and gas assets in Canada are effective as of December 31, 2023, and are included in the reports prepared by Sproule Associates Limited (Sproule), an independent qualified reserves evaluator, in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (NI 51-101) and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (the COGE Handbook) and using Sproule’s December 31, 2023 price forecasts.

    Reserve estimates, contingent resource estimates and estimates of future net revenue in respect of IPC’s oil and gas assets in France and Malaysia are effective as of December 31, 2023, and are included in the report prepared by ERC Equipoise Ltd. (ERCE), an independent qualified reserves auditor, in accordance with NI 51-101 and the COGE Handbook, and using Sproule’s December 31, 2023 price forecasts.

    The price forecasts used in the Sproule and ERCE reports are available on the website of Sproule (sproule.com) and are contained in the AIF. These price forecasts are as at December 31, 2023 and may not be reflective of current and future forecast commodity prices.

    The reserve life index (RLI) is calculated by dividing the 2P reserves of 468 MMboe as at December 31, 2023 by the mid-point of the 2024 CMD production guidance of 46,000 to 48,000 boepd.

    IPC uses the industry-accepted standard conversion of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one barrel of oil (6 Mcf = 1 bbl). A BOE conversion ratio of 6:1 is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a 6:1 conversion basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

    Supplemental Information regarding Product Types

    The following table is intended to provide supplemental information about the product type composition of IPC’s net average daily production figures provided in this press release:

      Heavy Crude Oil
    (Mbopd)    		 Light and Medium Crude Oil (Mbopd) Conventional Natural Gas (per day) Total
    (Mboepd)
    Three months ended        
    September 30, 2024 21.9 7.8 91.9 MMcf
    (15.3 Mboe)    		 45.0
    September 30, 2023 25.8 7.1 103.4 MMcf
    (17.3 Mboe)    		 50.2
    Nine months ended        
    September 30, 2024 23.7 7.9 94.8 MMcf
    (15.8 Mboe)    		 47.4
    September 30, 2023 25.9 8.6 102.4 MMcf
    (17.1 Mboe)    		 51.6
    Year ended        
    December 31, 2023 25.8 8.1 102.8 MMcf
    (17.1 Mboe)    		 51.1
             

    This press release also makes reference to IPC’s forecast total average daily production of 46,000 to 48,000 boepd for 2024. IPC estimates that approximately 50% of that production will be comprised of heavy oil, approximately 16% will be comprised of light and medium crude oil and approximately 34% will be comprised of conventional natural gas.

    Currency
    All dollar amounts in this press release are expressed in United States dollars, except where otherwise noted. References herein to USD mean United States dollars and to MUSD mean millions of United States dollars. References herein to CAD mean Canadian dollars.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: US election day voting begins with first ballots cast in New Hampshire

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Voters in Dixville Notch, New Hampshire, went to the polls early Tuesday morning, marking the official start of Election Day voting for the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

    Six registered voters of the tiny town in northeastern United States cast their ballots at midnight, following a tradition that dates back decades ago.

    Amid heightened security for fears of violence and chaos, the vast majority of polling stations across the country open on Tuesday morning and will remain open until the evening.

    Prior to this, tens of millions of voters across the country have already cast their ballots early, either by voting in person at polling stations or by mail. According to data from the University of Florida’s Election Lab, as of Monday night, more than 82 million voters had already cast their ballots.

    This election is widely regarded as one of the most divisive in American history. Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump have repeatedly warned against potentially catastrophic consequences inflicted on the country if the other is elected. Voters hold vastly different views on key issues such as the economy, immigration, and abortion rights.

    According to an annual survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, 77 percent of U.S. adults said the future of the nation was a significant source of stress in their lives. Additionally, 74 percent said they were worried that the election results could lead to violence.

    “I would hope that whoever wins the presidential election will handle it gracefully, and whoever doesn’t win, likewise, will handle it gracefully,” Annmarie Pintal, one of the just six voters registered to vote in Dixville Notch, told Xinhua.

    “We need unity. We need to come together on the common ground, and, be willing to set aside our differences,” said Scott Maxwell, another voter in the small town. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin visits jointly constructed neonatal building of San Juan de Dios Hospital and joins Guatemalan Foreign Minister Martínez in celebrating 90th anniversary of bilateral ties

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan 3

    Foreign Minister Lin visits jointly constructed neonatal building of San Juan de Dios Hospital and joins Guatemalan Foreign Minister Martínez in celebrating 90th anniversary of bilateral ties

    Date：2024-10-27
    Data Source：Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs

    October 27, 2024  
    No. 371  

    On October 25, during his visit to Guatemala, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung met with President Bernardo Arévalo, Foreign Minister Carlos Martínez, and other senior officials. He also toured the neonatal building of San Juan de Dios Hospital, which finished construction this year with assistance from Taiwan. While at the new building, Minister Lin interacted with families that benefited from the joint endeavor, giving him the opportunity to better understand the fruits of Taiwan-Guatemala collaboration. 
     
    Hospital Director Erika Pérez and Pediatrics Department Chief Juan Carlos Reyes introduced the facilities and functions of the building to Minister Lin when he toured the neonatal building in the morning. Accompanied by Guatemalan Minister of Public Health and Social Assistance Joaquín Barnoya, Minister Lin attended a traditional Taiwanese ceremony to bless infants and gave gifts to the attending families. 
     
    In his remarks at San Juan de Dios Hospital, Minister Lin stated that, in addition to the joint construction of the hospital’s neonatal building, Taiwan’s technical mission and Guatemala are working on a program to promote maternal and neonatal health care. The initiative will assist in training medical professionals at hospitals and birth centers in Guatemala City to enhance their ability to give women clinical care before, during, and after childbirth and reduce premature birth and infant mortality risks, benefiting 70,000 people each year. It will also arrange for related personnel from Guatemala to travel to Taiwan for training. Over 450 health care professionals are expected to receive training, thereby raising the quality of services available to women and children in Guatemala. It took just 12 months for Taiwan and Guatemala to complete the planning and construction of the neonatal building of San Juan de Dios Hospital, which has helped improve maternal and neonatal care. The important project has been met with wide approval from the government and civil society of Guatemala. 
     
    In the afternoon, Minister Lin called at Guatemala’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to meet with Minister Martínez, who invited him to view bamboo planted by Taiwan’s technical mission in the square outside the building. The plants commemorate 90 years of friendship and diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Guatemala. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin leads delegation to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines as presidential envoy to attend 45th independence anniversary celebrations

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan 3

    Foreign Minister Lin leads delegation to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines as presidential envoy to attend 45th independence anniversary celebrations

    Date：2024-10-28
    Data Source：Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs

    October 28, 2024 
    No. 375 

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung, serving as President Lai Ching-te’s special envoy, led a delegation to Caribbean ally Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on October 26. He participated in a ceremony and other celebrations marking the 45th anniversary of the independence of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. In addition, he met with Governor-General Susan Dougan, held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, attended a welcome reception hosted by the government, and took part in other official events.
     
    Minister Lin joined Prime Minister Gonsalves in presiding over the groundbreaking ceremony for the Arnos Vale Acute Care Hospital. He also attended the official opening of a farmers training room and a cold storage facility built at Orange Hill Farm with Taiwan’s support; a plaque unveiling for a new livestock facility at the Rabacca National Breeding Station; and an October fair celebrating the national days of both countries. Minister Lin reaffirmed President Lai’s staunch commitment to deepening relations with Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and, together with local residents, witnessed the results of Taiwan’s international development programs.
     
    Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Arnos Vale Acute Care Hospital, Minister Lin said that the important project highlighted the close partnership between the two countries. He expressed confidence that it would not only contribute to medical care modernization but also create job opportunities in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. He stated that in addition to building the hospital, Taiwan had also promoted other infrastructure projects, including the modernization of Kingstown Port, road renovation, and the construction of the House of Assembly and courthouse buildings.
     
    During the event at Orange Hill Farm, Minister Lin noted that bilateral cooperation in agricultural technology had yielded significant results. He commended the establishment of Orange Hill Biotechnology Center, which had long served as a key pillar for agricultural advancement and modernization of the sector in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. He also spoke about the launch of a new agricultural cooperation program in 2025 focusing on the introduction of smart agricultural technologies to improve productivity and bolster young people’s engagement in agriculture.
     
    The Republic of China (Taiwan) and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines established diplomatic relations in 1981. Over the past 43 years, bilateral cooperation projects have produced remarkable achievements. The two countries enjoy a cordial and solid partnership; share the core values of democracy, freedom, and human rights; and engage in close collaboration in such domains as agriculture, food security, infrastructure, medical care, public health, ICT, and women’s empowerment. Both nations will continue to build on the existing robust foundation to strengthen cooperation and deepen their partnership based on shared prosperity and mutual benefit. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign Minister Lin visits jointly constructed neonatal building of San Juan de Dios Hospital and joins Guatemalan Foreign Minister Martínez in celebrating 90th anniversary of bilateral ties

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Foreign Minister Lin visits jointly constructed neonatal building of San Juan de Dios Hospital and joins Guatemalan Foreign Minister Martínez in celebrating 90th anniversary of bilateral ties

    • Date：2024-10-27
    • Data Source：Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs

    October 27, 2024  

    No. 371  

    On October 25, during his visit to Guatemala, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung met with President Bernardo Arévalo, Foreign Minister Carlos Martínez, and other senior officials. He also toured the neonatal building of San Juan de Dios Hospital, which finished construction this year with assistance from Taiwan. While at the new building, Minister Lin interacted with families that benefited from the joint endeavor, giving him the opportunity to better understand the fruits of Taiwan-Guatemala collaboration. 

     

    Hospital Director Erika Pérez and Pediatrics Department Chief Juan Carlos Reyes introduced the facilities and functions of the building to Minister Lin when he toured the neonatal building in the morning. Accompanied by Guatemalan Minister of Public Health and Social Assistance Joaquín Barnoya, Minister Lin attended a traditional Taiwanese ceremony to bless infants and gave gifts to the attending families. 

     

    In his remarks at San Juan de Dios Hospital, Minister Lin stated that, in addition to the joint construction of the hospital’s neonatal building, Taiwan’s technical mission and Guatemala are working on a program to promote maternal and neonatal health care. The initiative will assist in training medical professionals at hospitals and birth centers in Guatemala City to enhance their ability to give women clinical care before, during, and after childbirth and reduce premature birth and infant mortality risks, benefiting 70,000 people each year. It will also arrange for related personnel from Guatemala to travel to Taiwan for training. Over 450 health care professionals are expected to receive training, thereby raising the quality of services available to women and children in Guatemala. It took just 12 months for Taiwan and Guatemala to complete the planning and construction of the neonatal building of San Juan de Dios Hospital, which has helped improve maternal and neonatal care. The important project has been met with wide approval from the government and civil society of Guatemala. 

     

    In the afternoon, Minister Lin called at Guatemala’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to meet with Minister Martínez, who invited him to view bamboo planted by Taiwan’s technical mission in the square outside the building. The plants commemorate 90 years of friendship and diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Guatemala. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign Minister Lin leads delegation to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines as presidential envoy to attend 45th independence anniversary celebrations

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Foreign Minister Lin leads delegation to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines as presidential envoy to attend 45th independence anniversary celebrations

    • Date：2024-10-28
    • Data Source：Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs

    October 28, 2024 

    No. 375 

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung, serving as President Lai Ching-te’s special envoy, led a delegation to Caribbean ally Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on October 26. He participated in a ceremony and other celebrations marking the 45th anniversary of the independence of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. In addition, he met with Governor-General Susan Dougan, held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, attended a welcome reception hosted by the government, and took part in other official events.

     

    Minister Lin joined Prime Minister Gonsalves in presiding over the groundbreaking ceremony for the Arnos Vale Acute Care Hospital. He also attended the official opening of a farmers training room and a cold storage facility built at Orange Hill Farm with Taiwan’s support; a plaque unveiling for a new livestock facility at the Rabacca National Breeding Station; and an October fair celebrating the national days of both countries. Minister Lin reaffirmed President Lai’s staunch commitment to deepening relations with Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and, together with local residents, witnessed the results of Taiwan’s international development programs.

     

    Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Arnos Vale Acute Care Hospital, Minister Lin said that the important project highlighted the close partnership between the two countries. He expressed confidence that it would not only contribute to medical care modernization but also create job opportunities in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. He stated that in addition to building the hospital, Taiwan had also promoted other infrastructure projects, including the modernization of Kingstown Port, road renovation, and the construction of the House of Assembly and courthouse buildings.

     

    During the event at Orange Hill Farm, Minister Lin noted that bilateral cooperation in agricultural technology had yielded significant results. He commended the establishment of Orange Hill Biotechnology Center, which had long served as a key pillar for agricultural advancement and modernization of the sector in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. He also spoke about the launch of a new agricultural cooperation program in 2025 focusing on the introduction of smart agricultural technologies to improve productivity and bolster young people’s engagement in agriculture.

     

    The Republic of China (Taiwan) and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines established diplomatic relations in 1981. Over the past 43 years, bilateral cooperation projects have produced remarkable achievements. The two countries enjoy a cordial and solid partnership; share the core values of democracy, freedom, and human rights; and engage in close collaboration in such domains as agriculture, food security, infrastructure, medical care, public health, ICT, and women’s empowerment. Both nations will continue to build on the existing robust foundation to strengthen cooperation and deepen their partnership based on shared prosperity and mutual benefit. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Internship of Russian specialists in China has started

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On November 4, a group of Russian specialists – graduates of the Presidential Program, led by the Director of the Federal Resource Center Alexey Bunkin, arrived in the People’s Republic of China in Beijing to undergo an overseas internship in the areas of “Economic Cooperation in Mechanical Engineering” and “General Economic Cooperation”. 50 representatives of Russian business from 20 regions of the Russian Federation will undergo an intensive internship in the largest organizations in Beijing and Shanghai for a week.

    The rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev is taking part in the Russian business mission. Let us recall that the State University of Management has been the operator of the program for training Russian specialists abroad for the third year in a row, which is conducted for graduates of the Presidential Program for Training Management Personnel for Organizations of the National Economy of the Russian Federation.

    The business program of internship of Russian specialists in Beijing was opened by the director of the Federal State Budgetary Institution “FRC” Alexey Bunkin, emphasizing that the internship opens up great opportunities for business representatives to establish business contacts, get acquainted with the peculiarities of the organization and management of enterprises, and study the experience of high-tech production.

    Then, the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev made a welcoming speech, noting that the program for training specialists abroad is a kind of driver for the development of trade and economic relations between the Russian Federation and other countries, providing participants with the opportunity to establish business contacts for the development of mutually beneficial economic ties and their own business, meet foreign partners, study the equipment and technologies offered, and negotiate with potential partners in specific areas and types of activities. Vladimir Stroyev also emphasized that internships are highly effective in terms of building horizontal ties and partnerships among Russian specialists. The rector of the State University of Management expressed confidence that the implementation of such projects will help form a new generation of entrepreneurs operating on the basis of specially formed competencies and practical skills in building international economic cooperation.

    After the completion of the official opening of the program, representatives of the Trade Mission of the Russian Federation in the People’s Republic of China, the Representative Office of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation in the People’s Republic of China, and the Russian House in Beijing made presentations.

    The speakers talked about how to find a Chinese counterparty and start exporting your products to China, about the financial aspects of entering the Chinese market and checking the reliability of Chinese companies. The reports caused a lively discussion and a large block of questions.

    Representatives of Russian departments in China wished the interns fruitful work and successful completion of the program and once again emphasized their readiness to provide assistance and support in the implementation of business projects for the benefit of the interests of Russian-Chinese trade and economic relations.

    The first day’s program ended with an organizational meeting with the working group of the State University of Management under the leadership of Vice-Rector Dmitry Bryukhanov, during which they discussed in detail the upcoming events of the program, the specifics of representing Russian companies at meetings with representatives of the Chinese business community in terms of intercultural communication and the specifics of conducting negotiations with potential partners at B2B and individual meetings.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 11/5/2024

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ​New initiative digs into literature for cinematic inspiration

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The inaugural Neutron Star Fiction Monthly Film & TV Adaptation Value Potential List was unveiled on Nov. 1, awarding 10 works that could be adapted into either films or TV series. Taking place in Beijing, the event also promoted the close connection between literature and film.

    Renowned screenwriter Chen Yu, chairman of Neutron Star Films, speaks at the Neutron Star Fiction Monthly Film & TV Adaptation Value Potential List release ceremony in Beijing, Nov. 1, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Neutron Star Films]

    Neutron Star Films, Yida Media alongside Baihua Literature and Art Publishing House jointly announced the list to forge stronger connections between distinguished authors and film and TV producers. 

    According to organizers, the initiative seeks to display literary works’ potential to become film and TV adaptations. This provides a more diverse variety of compelling storytelling blueprints for film and TV creation, thereby fostering reciprocity and co-prosperous development between sectors of the media and entertainment industry.

    Organizers spent a year gathering over 370 literary works from issues of Fiction Monthly, and its various versions, as well as Science Fiction Cube. All publications are distributed by Baihua Literature and Art Publishing House. After three rounds of evaluations by experts and industry leaders, five short stories and five novellas were chosen. The final 10 works were selected based on having the highest potential for film and TV adaptation.

    For best short stories, the five works selected were “Night Wanderer,” “Birds Fly into the Forest,” “The Case of the Missing Shepherd,” “1993” and “Going to the Future for Shopping.” For best novellas “Land of No Name,” “Architecture Ethics,” “Remain Silent,” “Mutual Hunt” and “High Building in the Northwest” were chosen as potential source material for film and TV adaptions. The selected works cover topics such as romance, martial arts and contemporary urban life. Among them, “Night Wanderer” and “Land of No Name” were the highest-voted works in the short story and novella categories, respectively.

    The organizers promised that they will deliver these literary works to production companies within the film and TV industry. This initiative aims to fully meet the market’s demand for a diverse range of film and TV content while also addressing the various needs of streaming platforms and their audiences.

    Organizers of the event pose with the shortlisted works’ writers for a photo at the Neutron Star Fiction Monthly Film & TV Adaptation Value Potential List release ceremony in Beijing, Nov. 1, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Neutron Star Films]

    “The profound expression of classic literature is still needed in the fragmented viewing atmosphere of the short video era, thus adaptations of classic literature into films and television series have ‘essential’ value in this age,” veteran screenwriter Chen Yu pointed out during the event to announce the 10 literary works.

    Chen Yu, also a professor at Peking University and a famed director, is responsible for several blockbusters that were directed by China’s prominent filmmaker Zhang Yimou, such as “Under the Light” and “Full River Red.” Chen Yu founded Neutron Star Films and has served as its chairman since last year.

    He noted that the film and TV industry’s lack of original content makes the search for excellent stories urgent. For the 10 shortlisted works, Chen Yu not only highlighted their textual values but also offered guidance on potential methods to develop them into film and TV projects, providing project references and discussing their relevance to contemporary values.

    Speakers pose for a photo on stage after a forum themed “How film and TV works draw nutrients from literature,” held following the Neutron Star Fiction Monthly Film & TV Adaptation Value Potential List release ceremony in Beijing, Nov. 1, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Neutron Star Films]

    A forum themed “How film and TV works draw nutrients from literature” was held following the announcement of the list, with six heavyweight speakers joining the panel to share their insight and experiences. 

    During the session, Chen Yan (no relation to Chen Yu), vice chairman of the Chinese Writers Association and the China Theatre Association, emphasized that even short literary works should convey a grand theme and delve into the finer details of life, focusing primarily on a rich depiction of human nature. Regarding cinematic adaptations, he noted that while film and TV versions of literary works should respect the original work’s intent, scriptwriters should also have the freedom for creative interpretation.

    Chen Yu believes that to determine whether a novel is worth adapting into a film or TV drama several criteria should be considered, including whether the work possesses contemporary relevance and originality as well as features distinctive characters and character relationships.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Gaocheng palace lanterns illuminate the path to prosperity

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    In a small village near Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, an extraordinary tradition unfolds every year—100 million pairs of lanterns are crafted, fueling an industry valued at an astonishing 2 billion yuan. This is Tuntou, famously known as the “Palace Lantern Capital of China,” where timeless craftsmanship blends seamlessly with modern innovation. Supporting over 100,000 jobs in the area, this village is a hub of creativity and tradition. As Chinese New Year approaches, step into this luminous world and embrace the festive spirit brought to life by these iconic lanterns!

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Year End Review 2024: Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation,

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 10:14AM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of JalShakti has been working relentlessly towards achieving the vision and mission of making India a ‘Water Secure Country’ as envisioned by Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi. The Ministry of Jal Shakti, formed in 2019 by bringing together all water related departments and organizations under one umbrella Ministry, has been playing a pivotal role in implementation of a focused strategy towards making India ‘Water Secure’ while ensuring optimal utilization of precious and scarce water resources across the nation. During the year2024, the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation has undertaken several new initiatives and achieved significant outcomes/milestones. Following is some of the key achievements of the Department in 2024:

    1.  ​National Mission forClean Ganga (NMCG)

    National Mission for Clean Ganga, in the year 2024, completed 25 projects which resulted in the completion of a cumulative total of 303 projects, sofar, and also sanctioned 39 new projects amounting to ₹ 2,056 crore, bringing the cumulative total to 488 projects sanctioned worth ₹ 39,730 crore. In sewerage infrastructure, 12 projects for the creation/ rehabilitation of 305 MLD sewage treatment capacity have been sanctioned between January to December 2024. In the same period, 16 projects for the creation/ rehabilitation of 750 MLD sewage treatment capacity have been completed. Till date, a total of 203 sewerage infrastructure projects have been sanctioned in the Ganga Basin for the creation of 6,255 MLD sewage treatment capacity and the laying of a 5,249 km sewer network.

    Other key achievements during the year 2024 are as follows:

     

    (A) Inauguration and Laying of Foundation Stones Sewerage infrastructure projects by Hon’ble Prime Minister (Under Nirmal Ganga)

     

    • On 25thJanuary 2024, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated the following projects with a cumulative cost of ₹ 790.5 Crores from Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh.

     

    1. Construction of 30 MLD STP at Masani, Mathura (under Hybrid Annuity-basedPPP (HAM) model under Namami Gange Program), Rehabilitation of existing (30 MLD at Trans Yamuna and 6.8 MLD STP at Masani, Mathura) total 36.8 MLD and Construction of 20 MLD TTRO plant (Tertiary Treatment and Reverse Osmosis Plant), Masani, Mathura 
    1. Construction of 58 MLD STP with 264 km and sewerage Network at Moradabad

     

    • On 1st March 2023, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated three projects worth
      ₹ 575 crore       from Hooghly, West Bengal. These projects include, 40 MLD STP work with Interception & Diversion at Bally, West Bengal, 60 MLD STP work with Interception & Diversion at Kamarhati and Baranagar Municipalities, West Bengal and 65 MLD STP work with Interception & Diversion at Howrah.

     

    • On 2nd March 2024, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated twelve projects worth ₹ 2,189 crore from Aurangabad, Bihar. These projects include 60 MLD STP and 162 km sewerage network at Saidpur, Patna, 60 MLD STP at Pahari, Patna, 93 km sewerage network at Pahari Zone IVA (S), Patna, 116 km sewerage network at Pahari Zone V, Patna, 180 km sewerage network at Beur, Patna, 96 km sewerage network at Karmalichak, Patna, 11 MLD STP at Barh, Patna, 10 MLD STP at Sultanganj, Bhagalpur, 9 MLD STP at Naugachia, Bhagalpur, 3.50 MLD STP at Sonepur, Saran, 32 MLD STP at Chhapra, Saran.

     

    • On 10th March 2024, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated three sewage projects worth ₹ 1,114 crore from Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh. These projects include 72 MLD STP and I&D network work at Naini (District-G, 42 MLD), Phaphamau (District-F, 14 MLD) and Jhunsi (16 MLD), Prayagraj, 30 MLD STP and I&D network  work at Jaunpur and 45 MLD STP and I&D network work at Etawah.

     

    • On 2nd October 2024, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for ten sewage treatment plant (STP) projects with a total cost of ₹ 1,555 crore. Among these, five projects worth ₹ 534.25 crore were inaugurated across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Additionally, laid the foundation stone for five more projects across Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, amounting to ₹ 1,021 crore.

     

    (B) Inauguration and Laying of Foundation Stones Sewerage infrastructure projects by Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti (Under Nirmal Ganga)

     

    • On 4th January 2024, the Hon’ble Union Minister for Jal Shakti inaugurated 14 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) with a 2.4 km Interception & Diversion (I&D) Network worth ₹ 77.36 crores in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh.

     

    • On 18th January 2024, the Hon’ble Union Minister for Jal Shakti laid the foundation stone for the 220 MLD Meerut sewage treatment plant (STP) with interception and diversion (I&D) project worth ₹ 370 crore in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.

     

    1. Training on Occupational Health & Safety Audit

    NMCG organized 9 virtual safety training program and trained more than 1,500 officials on “Occupational Health and Safety Audit (OHSA)” From January 2024 to December 2024, to ensure workplace safety and compliance.

    1. Activities Under Biodiversity Conservation (Under Aviral Ganga)

     

    The programme has sanctioned projects focused on protecting and rehabilitating fishery, turtles, crocodiles, and dolphins. Projects Sanctioned in the year 2024 are as under :

     

    • Advancing Rescue System for the protection of stranded Ganges river Dolphins.
    • Conservation, Reintroduction, and Rehabilitation of threatened Turtles along ganga basin.

    · Expanding Conservation Breeding Programme of Freshwater Turtle and Gharial at Kukrail Rehabilitation Centre, Lucknow

    NMCG, in partnership with CIFRI, has successfully implemented fish ranching programs for Indian Major Carps and other species. In 2024, notable achievements include – Ranching of Indian Major Carps (IMC): 49.25 lakhs, Mahseer: 7,370, Hilsa: 42,117 and Hilsa tagging: 1,387 nos.

    1. Important Activities (under Jan Ganga)

     

    • Launch of Namami Niranjana Abhiyan: NMCG launched the “Namami Niranjana Abhiyan” on 20th February 2024, aimed at ensuring the perennial flow of the Niranjana (Falgu) river and bolstering the ongoing efforts of the “Niranjana (Falgu) River Recharge Mission”. The Falgu river, revered as Niranjana in Bodhgaya and Falgu in Gaya, originates from Belgadda in the Simaria block of Chatra district, Jharkhand, holding profound significance in the Hindu Sanatan religion. Pilgrims partake in rituals such as PindDaan and Tarpan for their ancestors using water from the Falgu river.
    • Celebration of International Day of Yoga: On the occasion of the International Day of Yoga, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) organized ‘Ghat Par Yoga’ at BSF Camp, Zero Pushta, Sonia Vihar in Delhi on the bank of River Yamuna on 21st June, 2024. Over 1,000 people participated in the event including officials and staff from the NMCG, NGOs under the Yamuna Action Plan (YAP-III) of the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), the Border Security Force (BSF), Ganga Vichar Manch, various other NGOs, as well as students and children.
    • 8thIndia Water Week 2024: The 8th edition of India Water Week (IWW) 2024 was held during 17-20 September 2024, in New Delhi, on the theme “Partnerships and Cooperation for Inclusive Water Development and Management.” This prestigious international event has become a key platform for collaboration in water resource management. The event was inaugurated by the President of India,  alongside Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti, and Hon’ble Minister of State for Jal Shakti.

     

    • Ganga Utsav- A River Festival 2024: On 4th November 2024, the 8th edition of Ganga Utsav was organized by NMCG at scenic Chandi Ghat in Haridwar to promote the conservation of the Ganga River, emphasize its cultural and spiritual importance, and raise public awareness about cleanliness. The event was inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti in the august presence of the Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Hon’ble Uttarakhand Minister for Women & Child Welfare, Secretary, DoWR, RD & GR, Ministry of Jal Shakti, and DG, NMCG. This eighth edition of the event was the first time held on the riverbank, with celebrations extending across more than 110 districts in the Ganga basin states.The event featured participants from diverse spheres, including students, scientists, spiritual leaders, and more.
    • 9th India Water Impact Summit: The 9th India Water Impact Summit (IWIS) & 2nd Climate Investments and Technology Impact Summit were organised jointly by NMCG & c-Ganga from 4th to 6th December 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
    1. International Collaboration

     

    • Meeting with German Delegates: On 9th May 2024, a meeting was held with the Deputy Head of the Economic Division, German Embassy to discuss the current status of projects aimed at rejuvenating the Ganga River, supported through bilateral cooperation between India and Germany.
    • Workshop on Strengthening Quality Infrastructure for Water Monitoring of the Ganges River II: NMCG in association with Physikalisch- Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)  under Indo-German Technical Cooperation Programme organised a 6-day training programme from 22nd July to 31st July 2024.
    • Inception Workshop for District Ganga Plans: On 5th July 2024, NMCG in association with GIZ organized an inception workshop for the District Ganga Plans. The workshop aimed to create comprehensive District Ganga Plans (DGPs) based on a River Basin Management approach, which has been prepared for four pilot districts.
    • Smart Laboratory for Clean Rivers (SLCR): The Smart Lab for Clean Rivers (SLCR) has been set up under the Green Strategic Partnership between India and Denmark to bring global solutions on current challenges in the field of clean river water, conduct collaborative research and development to fit in real environment through Living lab approach and creation of platform between Government authorities, academic institutions and technology providers for knowledge sharing and co-creation to achieve clean river water.
    • Meeting of the Joint Review Committee: On 9th October 2024, the first meeting of the Joint Review Committee (JRC) under the India-Israel Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was held under the chairmanship of DG, NMCG, to address priority areas such as reducing non-revenue water, urban water management through IoT and AI, wastewater treatment, and sewage sludge management.
    1.  Development of knowledge products (Under Gyan Ganga)

     

    The ‘River Atlas for Ganga Main Stem Districts’, an in-house developed knowledge product of the GKC was launched by the Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti on 09thDecember 2024 during the 13th Empowered Task Force Meeting. The atlas comprises maps of River Ganga and its tributaries, covering five main stem states in the Ganga basin – Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. This comprehensive Atlas is essential for the effective implementation of policies and programs and accurate planning and informed decision-making.

     

    1. ​National Water Mission (NWM)
    • MoU with Girganga Parivar Trust (Girganga) has been signed on 22.10.2024 on Pro bono basis. They have committed to build 11,111 bore well recharge and 11,111 check dams.
    • MoU with Sarkaritel.com/jalprahari.in has been signed on 13.12.2024 on Pro bono basis. They have committed for generating awareness on Water Conservation in the public.
    • MoU with Vyakti Vikas Kendra India (VVKI), the Art of Living has been signed on 16.12.2024 on Pro bono basis. They have committed for creating of Water recharge structure with the help of implementing many River Rejuvenation Programs through Government scheme MGNREGA
    • Central Water and Power Research Station, Pune
    • Central Soil and Material Research Station, New Delhi
    • National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee
    • Central Water Commission, New Delhi
    • Publication of research/ technical reports – 281 Nos.
    • Organisation of Trainings and workshops – 94 Nos.
    • Training of people for capacity building- 2623 persons
    • Publication of high impact technical report & research papers – 18 Nos.
    • 13 new research schemes has been recommended by Standing Advisory Committee and approved by Secretary (WR).
    • The research project “Hydro-geological Assessment and Socio-Economic implications of Depleting Water Resources in tourist towns of Uttarakhand” has been completed.
    • The research project “Irrigation Efficiency Improvement through On–farm Water Management” has been completed.
    • The research project “Dynamic Downscaling to study Climate Change Impacts on
    • Water Resource in India” has been completed.
    1. ​ National Water Development Agency (NWDA): Inter-Linking of Rivers Project

    Under National Perspective Plan (NPP) formulated by Government of India, 30 inter-basin water transfer links (16 Peninsular and 14 Himalayan component) have been identified by National Water Development Agency for preparation of Feasibility Reports. Detailed Projects Reports (DPRs) of 11 links, Feasibility Reports (FRs) of 26 links and Pre-Feasibility Reports (PFRs) of all the 30 links have been prepared. The Inter-Linking River (ILR) Programme has been taken up on high priority by Government of India. The works related to ILR projects are already in progress. Five links have been identified as priority links by Govt. of India viz., Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP), Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project (MPKC) and Godavari-Cauvery (G-C) Link Project (comprising of 3 link systems).

    System studies of four link projects viz.; Manas-Sanksoh-Teesta-Ganga (MSTG) link, Ganga-Damodar-Subernarekha (GDS) link, Subernarekha-Mahanadi (SM) link and Farakka-Sunderbans (FS) link have been initiated and the work of these four links has been awarded to IIT, Guwahati, NIT, Patna, NIT, Warangal and NIH, Roorkee respectively. Inception Reports have been submitted in June, 2023 by all the four Institutes. The draft final reports of MSTG and GDS have been submitted by the respective Institutes. The system studies of Mahanadi-Godavari link have been completed by NIH, Roorkee and the Final Report has been submitted in May, 2023. Awarding of work for system studies of southern linkage initiated, however, it may be taken up after finalization of quantity of water that can be transferred from MSTG, GDS, FS and SM link projects to Mahanadi river, as per system studies. 

    Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP): is the first inter-linking of rivers (ILR) project for which implementation has been initiated. The project will be of immense benefit to the water starved Bundelkhand Region, spread across the States of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh which includes districts of Panna, Tikamgarh, Niwari, Chhatarpur, Sagar, Damoh, Datia, Vidisha, Shivpur&Raisen and Banda, Mahoba, Jhansi & Lalitpur respectively. The status of KBLP is as given below:

     

    1. Subsequent to signing of tripartite agreement in year, 2021, Govt. of India approved implementation of the project in December, 2021 at an estimated cost of Rs. 44,605 Crore with central support of Rs. 39,317 Crore.
    2. With allocation of budget under RE of FY 2021-22, the implementation of the project has started.
    3. Steering Committee and Ken-Betwa Link Project Authority (KBLPA) were been constituted vide Gazette Notification dated 11.02.2022.
    4. KBLPA HQ Office is set up at Bhopal with three more offices at Chhatarpur, Panna and Jhansi, which are fully functional with regular CEO/ACEOs, Director (Fin.) and other officials.
    5. Six meetings of Steering Committee and Six meetings of KBLPA have been held so far.
    6. Initially the focus is on land acquisition, R&R, fulfilling the compliances to the conditions of forest clearance and wildlife clearance.
    7. Greater Panna Landscape Council (GPLC) under Chief Secretary, Govt. of MP has been constituted for implementation of Landscape Management Plan through various stakeholders. Its first meeting was held on 05.09.23. Sub-Committee of GPLC was constituted on 16.10.2023 and its 1st& 2nd meetings were held on 17.10.2023 & 29.11.2023 respectively.
    8. Planning for an Integrated Research and Learning Centre (IRLC) at Panna has already been initiated by WII.
    9. The Monitoring Committee for R&R works of KBLP under Secretary, DoLR, MoRD has been constituted.
    10. Collector, Chhattarpur has made payment of Rs. 197.23 Crore to the affected Families. Whereas, Collector Panna has made payment of Rs.76.82 Crore to the affected families of Panna. The remaining Land Acquisition Payment for Private land in both the districts are in Progress.
    11. The work for engagement of Project Management Consultant (PMC) is in process. 9 bids were received for PMC, Result of Technical Evaluation of Bids was published on the CPP Portal on 22.08.2024. The Financial Proposals of the 5 technically qualified firms were opened on 10.09.2024. 20 meetings of Consultancy Evaluation Committee (CEC) for hiring PMC have been held so far. 20th meeting of CEC was held on 11.09.2024 for financial evaluation of bids. After financial and technical evaluation of bids received, recommendations of the CEC have been submitted to DoWR,RD&GR, MoJS for approval on 13.09.2024.
    12. A Technical Advisory Group for KBLP (TAG-KBLP) for KBLPA has been constituted to review and advise KBLPA on various planning and technical matters on implementation of various components of the link project. 10 meetings of TAG have been held so far.
    13. The tender document for the main component of the project i.e. Daudhan dam and its Appurtenant works (EPC mode) was finalized by Technical Advisory Group of KBLP and the Tender Evaluation Committee (TEC) and floated on CPP portal on 11.08.2023.   The complete proposal of technical and financial evaluation of bids was sent to Ministry of Jal Shakti that has been approved by Ministry. Subsequently, KBLPA has issued Letter of Acceptance to M/s NCC Limited for the work of Daudhan dam on 28.11.2024.
    14. Stage–II Forest Clearance for diversion of 6017.00 ha of forest land for development of KBLP has been accorded by MoEF& CC on 03.10.2023.
    15. The draft tender for EPC execution of Ken-Betwa Link Canal is prepared in two packages and circulated to State Governments of MP and UP for their comments/suggestions. Suggestions from Govt. of UP have been received.
    16. PTR has accepted total 6017 ha non-forest land Transferred/ Mutated. Notification of 6017 ha has been completed by Forest Department under section-29 of Indian Forest Act-1927 and has been published.
    17. Land in submergence: 3239 ha (Govt. Land: 1784.67 ha + Private Land 1454.33 ha) of land is coming under submergence area of Daudhan Dam. Private land of 1454.33 ha and Government land of 1604.429 ha has been mutated in favour of WRD, MP. Balance 180.241 ha Government land is likely to be transferred to WRD, MP soon.
    18. Land Acquisition for Ken Betwa Link canal (99 villages of MP and 10 villages of UP) is under progress.
    19. The work on State specific components like Lower Orr, Kotha Barrage and Bina Complex Multipurpose Project is already in progress. Head Works of Lower Orr has been completed whereas Head Works for Kotha & Bina are ongoing.

    Cumulative Progress (%) upto December, 2024

    1. Lower Orr      : 67.00
    2. Kotha Barrage: 59.00
    3. Bina Complex: 50.20
    1. The preparation of DPRs of components of UP likes two barrages, renovation and modernization of Tanks of Mahoba district, renovation and modernization of three weirs and ken command system is in progress.
    2. Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji laid the Foundation Stone of KBLP on 25.12.2024 at Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh).
    3. The project is planned to be completed in 8 years by March, 2030.

     

    Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project (MPKC):

     

    1. PFR has been circulated to concerned States. The work of DPRs is under progress.
    2. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed on 28.01.2024 amongst States of MP, Rajasthan and Govt. of India.
    3. Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) of Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal link project has been signed on 05.12.2024 amongst States of MP, Rajasthan and Govt. of India. Subsequently Hon’ble Prime Minister declared the signing of the agreement on 17th December, 2024 at Rajasthan.

     

    Godavari-Cauvery (G-C) Link Project (comprising of 3 link systems):

     

    1. Modified proposal for transfer of 4189 MCM of water from Godavari along with supplementation in Krishna basin through Bedti-Varda link (524 MCM) has been studied by NWDA.
    2. Draft DPR of the modified /revised proposal has circulated to the concerned State/UT during Jan., 2024.
    3. Draft MoA has been prepared for implementation of the project and circulated to concerned State/UT for perusal and observation during April, 2024.
    4. Concerted efforts are being made for building up consensus amongst the States/UT for signing of MoA for the early implementation of this link project.

     

    8th India Water Week 2024:

     

    1. IWW-2024 was successfully organized/held from 17th to 20th September, 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
    2. The theme of the 8th India Water Week is “Partnerships and Cooperation for Inclusive Water Development and Management”.
    3. The mega event was inaugurated by the Hon’ble President of India.
    4. The four-day multi-disciplinary conference comprises of Ministerial Plenary, Global Water Leaders’ Plenary (2), Country Forum (4), Water Leaders Forum (9), Practitioner’s Forum (8), Startup Forum, Youth Forum, Water Convention (18) one-day study tour and concurrently organized exhibition. Denmark, Australia and Israel were the Partner Countries. There were 15 Partner States viz.; Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, J&K, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana.

    More than 4500 delegates from India & abroad participated in the IWW-2024. About 215 delegates from 40 countries participated in the conference. Parallel to the conference, in the exhibition 143 Exhibitors from Central, States Government, Public Sector undertakings, Private Firms, NGOs, Startups and Schools etc. showcased their technologies.

    1. ​ Central Water Commission (CWC)

          (i)   Central Water Commission has undertaken sedimentation assessment studies of selected reservoirs located in various States using Satellite Remote Sensing technique under the plan scheme “Research & Development Programme in Water Sector”. It is planned to take up the studies in respect of 80 reservoirs during 2021-26. Accordingly, the work of carrying out the study for the first batch of 40 reservoirs was outsourced.  Due to non-availability of either the desired water levels or satellite data for a reservoir on date of satellite pass, study in respect of 31 reservoirs was feasible which has been completed and reports published during 2022 to 2024. Besides this sedimentation studies in respect of 30 reservoirs have been completed in-house using Remote Sensing Techniques. Furthermore, a Google Earth Engine-based tool has also been developed by CWC officers, in-house under Smart Water Resources Modelling Organization (SWRMO) – Centre for Excellence, to automate the assessment of sedimentation in the live storage zone of reservoir.

          (ii)  A World Bank (WB) and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) team conducted the Mid-Term Review (MTR) mission for the Second Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP-2) between January 17 and May 3, 2024. The mission held discussions with Implementing Agencies (IAs) in Bhubaneshwar (Odisha), Surat (Gujarat), and New Delhi and undertook field visits to selected dams in Gujarat (Ukai) and Odisha (Hirakud, Rengali). The wrap-up meeting was held in New Delhi, chaired by Joint Secretary, D/o WR, RD&GR, Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) and attended by Project Director, Central Water Commission (CWC), members of the Central Project Management Unit (CPMU), the Engineering and Management Consultant (EMC), and representatives of all Implementing Agencies (IA). As part of the mission, a detailed exercise on the use of the rapid risk assessment tool for Indian dams, in compliance with the National Dam Safety Act 2021, was carried out between March 5 and May 3, 2024.

          (iii) The quarterly dialogues on Coastal Area Management, initiated as per the direction of the Chairman, Central Water Commission (CWC) was held in April and May 2024.These dialogues brought together stakeholders from various levels of government, research institutions, and relevant departments to discuss pressing issues such as coastal erosion, salinity ingress, and the need for robust data collection and management. The dialogues provided a platform for sharing information, best practices, and innovative solutions from all stakeholders. As an outcome of the Quarterly Dialogue, CWC has published a report titled “Status Report on Coastal Area Management- An Indian Perspective, Region Issues & Remedial Measures”. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and initiatives related to coastal management in India. The report highlights the significant impacts of coastal erosion and salinity ingress, emphasizing the need for robust data collection, effective mitigation strategies, and increased collaboration among stakeholders.

    (iv) A Smart Water Resources Modelling Organization acts as Centre of Excellence to grow as a pioneering hub for developing in-house expertise and innovation in tackling diverse problem statements and studies in water sector and directly reports to Chairman, CWC.

    (v) Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 06.06.2024between Central Water Commission (CWC) and IIT, Roorkeefor research work related to Irrigation Efficiency Assessment, Water Accounting studies, Cropped Area Mapping, Water Auditing, Urban Flood Forecasting & Risk Management, Urban Flood Inundation & Hazard Mapping, etc. These works will be carried out through mutual consultations and collaboration, leveraging the expertise and resources of both institutions.

    (vi) A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between Central Water Commission (CWC) and Space Application Centre (SAC) in the field of hydrology and water resources management, leveraging remote sensing and collaborative research efforts for mutual benefit on 08th July,2024.

    (vii) Support for Irrigation Modernization Program (SIMP): Central Water Commission (CWC), DoWR, RD & GR has taken up an initiative Support for Irrigation Modernization Program (SIMP) with technical assistance from theAsian Development Bank (ADB) to modernize Major/ Medium Irrigation (MMI) projects in the country.

    (viii) SIMP is proposed to be taken up in 4 phases. SIMP Phase-1 concluded on 31.12.2021 under which 4 MMI projects have been identified for inclusion under 1st batch of projects for preparation of Irrigation Modernization Plans (IMPs) out of the 57 proposals received from 14 States and 2 UTs. The entire process including the preparation of IMPs, Detailed Project Report (DPRs), detailed designs and final implementation/ project execution is expected to be completed by Phase-4. Implementation of the project would lie with the concerned States who would have an option to either fund it from their own resources or they can avail loan facility from ADB or any other financial institutions.

    (ix) SIMP Phase-2 was initiated from November 2022. Irrigation Modernization Plan (IMP) of four projects namely VanivilasaSagara Project, Karnataka, Palkhed Project Maharashtra, Purna Project, Maharashtra and Loharu Lift Irrigation Project, Haryana have been prepared. As a 1st step for preparation of IMPs, FAO developed RAP-MASSCOTE (Rapid Appraisal Procedure-Mapping System and Services for Canal Operation Techniques) workshops were organized to assess the present status of the identified four projects. The findings of RAP MASSCOTE workshops and issues related to Batch 1 SIMP projects were discussed in a mid-term workshop organized by ADB and CWC on 09.06.2023 at New Delhi.

    For capacity building under SIMP phase-II, the following activities were organized:

    • From 6th to 10th November 2023, a five days training on modernization and design of Pipe Distribution Networks (PDN) was organized at Panchkula/ Chandigarh. 22 Engineers from Karnataka, Maharashtra, Haryana, Punjab and CWC participated in the training.
    • On 15th and 20th December 2023, a Webinar on Irrigation Modernization and Design of PDN Systems was organized.
    • A Training on Asset Management Planning for Irrigation Schemes was held from 8th  to 12th  January 2024 at WALMI, Aurangabad.
    • A training on new technologies in Agriculture and Water Practices was held from 22nd  to 25th  January 2024 at HIRMI, Kurukshetra, Haryana.

    The Preliminary Project Reports (PPR) of all the four projects has been submitted by ADB to the concerned project authorities. PPR of Loharu, Haryana is under process with Govt department. PPR of Palkhed and Purna, Maharashtra is under process in Planning Department of Haryana, PPR of VVS, Karnataka is under process with state finance Govt of Maharashtra.

    PPRs are to be finalized by the states and submitted to DEA. After necessary approval from DEA, action for phase-3 will be taken up for preparation of DPRs.

    (x) A Training program on the application of Rapid Risk Assessment tool, in association with the World Bank for the officers of the core group was held during April 22, 2024 – May 3, 2024 at Auditorium, 1st floor, CWC Library Building, Near Sewa Bhawan, Sector-1, R K Puram, New Delhi. Total 66 officials nominated by CWC, NDSA and States / DRIP IAs for taking forward the assignment of carrying out the Rapid Risk Assessment of specified dams in the country.

    1. GLOF and Flood forecasting activities: –

    CWC finalized the criteria for Risk Indexing of Glacial Lakes in the Indian Himalayan Region in September 2024, which provide a comprehensive methodology for identifying and categorizing Glacial Lakes based on factors such as Glacial Lake size, Glacial Lake type, Side slope, Snout distance from GL etc. and the potential socio-economic impacts of a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood.

    In the year 2024, 2 new stations (Inflow) have started functioning. Currently CWC is providing flood forecast at 340 stations (200-level forecasting stations & 140-inflow forecasting stations). During the period from 1st April to 30.11.2024, 10415 (i.e. 7093 Level and 3322 Inflow) forecasts were issued, out of which 9947 (95.5%) forecasts were found within the accuracy limit (±0.15m for level forecast and ±20% for inflow forecast).During flood season, CWC operates the Central Flood Control Room on 24×7 basis at its headquarter in New Delhi and 36 Divisional Flood Control Rooms spread throughout the country for monitoring flood situation. On an average, about 10,000 forecasts are issued during flood season every year by the CWC. Normally, these forecasts are issued 6 to 30 hours in advance, depending upon the river terrain and location of the flood forecasting sites and their base stations. In addition to conventional flood forecasting techniques, mathematical model forecasting based on rainfall-run off methodology is being used for some areas. This has enabled CWC to issue 7-day advance flood advisory.

    Automated online 7-day flood advisory for all the level and inflow forecasting stations is maintained. “Flood Situation for next seven days” in respect of stations likely to be above warning level has been added in the “Daily Flood Situation Report cum Advisory” based on the 7-day advisory.

    1. Flood Plain Zoning

    In order to have a reasonable degree of protection, floods need to be managed through both structural & non-structural measures so as to reduce the losses. Non-structural measures are planned activities to modify susceptibility due to flood related damages. These are meant to keep people away from floods. Flood Plain Zoning is one of the main non-structural measures for management of floods worldwide.

    A technical committee under the chairmanship of Member (RM) was constituted during November 2022 for formulation of ‘Technical Guidelines on Flood Plain Zoning’ . After due deliberations, the committee submitted the guidelines to Ministry. The guidelines is presently under circulation to the states for their comments/review. Once implemented, these guidelines shall serve as a valuable document in guiding the states in framing their own legislation in protecting their rivers from future encroachments.

    1. Hydrological Studies:

    The success of a project is largely governed by the hydrological inputs. The success of a project is largely governed by the hydrological inputs. The Hydrological Studies Organization (HSO), a specialized unit under Design and Research (D&R) Wing of CWC, carries out hydrological studies in respect of the water resources projects in the country. The inputs in Detailed Project Report (DPR) or Pre- Feasibility (PFR) stage are made available in the form of:

    • Water availability/yield studies.
    • Design flood estimation.
    • Sedimentation studies.
    • Diversion flood studies.

    The country has been divided into 7 zones and further into 26 hydro- meteorologically homogeneous sub-zones and flood estimation models are developed for each subzone to compute the design flood in ungauged catchments. So far, flood estimation reports covering 24 sub-zones have been published. During the year 2024- 25, technical examinations of hydrological aspects of DPRs in respect of 88 projects have been carried out in CWC. Out of this, 46 projects have been cleared and comments were issued for 17 projects. Rest of the projects are under examination.

    Some of the major works carried out during this period are:

    •   Flood frequency analysis & carrying capacity of Yamuna River from Hathnikund Barrage to Delhi.

    •   Hydrology Chapter for Bakchachuu HEP, Ringyang HEP, &RimbiKhola HEP has been submitted.

    •   100 yr& 500 yr Return Period flood of Chandrawal River under Ken Betwa Link project.

    •   Water Availability of the untapped catchment between alignment of feeder canal, Mahalpur barrage and Navnera Barrage Under MPKC link.

    Technical Assistance / Advice tendered

    HSO has provided secretariat assistance to various technical/ expert committees for undertaking special studies on various aspects related to water resources development and management. Some of the important contributions during the year 2024- 25 are as under:

    • Hydrological Studies for Ponnaiyar River Basin, to resolve the interstate issue between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
    • Hydrological modeling for heavy rainfall across the Yamuna River catchment in July 2023 caused significant runoff and discharge, leading to rapid water level rises. In this study estimated submergence areas for different return-period floods, analyzed embankment overtopping, and identified drainage congestion and afflux of existing structures using 2-D modeling for the river reach between 21 km upstream of Wazirabad barrage and 10 km downstream of Okhla barrage.

    Hydrological modeling for tackling issues related to high intensity rainfall, riverine flood, drainage and interrelated issues in urban areas.

    1. Planning and Design of Water Resources Projects

    CWC is actively associated with design of majority of the mega water resources projects in India and neighboring countries, viz., Nepal and Bhutan by way of design consultancy or in the technical appraisal of the projects. At present CWC is provided design consultancy to 94 projects. Out of this, 31 projects (including 3 from neighboring countries) are at construction stage, 35 projects (including 2 from neighboring countries) are at DPR stage and 28 projects involve special problems.

    National Committee on Seismic Design Parameters: –

    The National Committee on Seismic Design Parameters (NCSDP) was constituted by MoWR Order dated 21 st October, 1991 with the objective to recommend the seismic design parameters for the proposals received from the dam owners. Member (D&R), CWC is the chairman of the committee with 12 other experts from various engineering disciplines from different technical institutions and Government organizations as its members. Director (FE&SA), CWC is the member Secretary of NCSDP. The 38th meeting of NCSDP was held on 10.05.2024 at CWC, New Delhi under the Chairmanship of Member (D&R) wherein six projects were cleared.

    Further, a special meeting of NCSDP was held on 05.06.2024 wherein the Guideline for Preparation and Submission Of Site-Specific Seismic Study Report of River Valley Project To National Committee On Seismic Design Parameters was revised comprehensively to be in line with the International practices.

    1. National Register of Large Dams:

    Before enactment of Dam Safety Act 2021, Dam Safety Organisation (DSO) , CWC compiled and maintained the register of large dams across the country in the form of National Register of Large Dams (NRLD) based on information provided by State Govts. / PSUs. After enactment of Dam Safety Act 2021, the NDSA has been mandated to maintain National level database of all specified dam in the country. The National Register of Specified (Large) Dams 2023 was released by Hon’ble Vice President of India in International Conference on Dam Safety held during 14th-15th September 2023 at Jaipur. As per NRLD- 2023, there are 6138 constructed and 143 under construction dams in the country. The NRLD, 2023 is available on CWC’s website and can be accessed by l ink- https:// cwc. gov. in/ publication/nrld.

    1. Technical Examination of Instrumentation aspects of the projects:

    Hydroelectric project:-

    Detailed Project Report (DPR)/ construction drawings of 29 river valley projects in various States/ countries namely Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Odisha, Sikkim Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Jammu & Kashmir, Bhutan and Nepal were examined, out of which 4 projects have been cleared with respect to instrumentation aspects and remaining 25 projects are at various stages of examination.

    Pumped storage Project:-

    Detailed Project Report (DPR)/ construction drawings of 42 river valley projects in various States/ countries namely Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh were examined, out of which 6 projects have been cleared with respect to instrumentation aspects and for remaining 36 projects, clearance from instrumentation aspects is no longer required as per the latest CEA guidelines.

    1. Standing Technical Advisory Committee of CSMRS

    The Standing Technical Advisory Committee (STAC) was constituted under the Chairmanship of Member (D&R), CWC for providing an overall perspective and guidance in technical scrutiny of research schemes being undertaken at CSMRS. The STAC is composed of 11 members drawn from various public sector institutions and is headed by Member (D& R), CWC. The 39th Standing Technical Advisory Committee (STAC) meeting of CSMRS was held on 25.10.2024

    1. Other Seismic works:

    Work related to technical evaluation and critical examination of web-based tool Seismic Hazard Assessment Information System (SHAISYS) being developed by IIT Roorkee and CWPRS Pune under DRIP is being carried out. A meeting is proposed on 18th December 2024 under the chairmanship of Member (D&R), CWC with the expert of IIT Roorkee at CWC, New Delhi regarding way forward for development of SHAISYS.

     

    1. CWC Activities under National Hydrology Project (NHP):

    Study on “Physical based Mathematical Modelling for estimation of Sediment Rate and Sediment Transport in Seven River Basin” has been completed.

    Extended Hydrological Prediction (multi week forecast) for Yamuna, Narmada and Cauvery basins is in progress.

    • Reservoir Sedimentation Studies using Hydrographic survey for 32 reservoirs” under Phase-I has been completed. Works of Phase II: Consists of 87 reservoirs in 10 states (Rajasthan, Gujrat, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Telangana, and Odisha is under progress.
    • Supply, Installation, Testing & Commissioning (SITC) of 93 Nos. ADCP (14 + 29 + 50 in three phases) for the measurement of discharge at the HO sites of CWC has been completed. Further procurement of additional 46 no’s ADCP and 8 no’s Total station is in under progress.
    • Supply, Installation, Testing & Commissioning (SITC) of 32 velocity radar sensors for modernization of discharge observations has been completed.
    • 7 no’s of  Water Quality Equipment (ICP-MS and GC-MS) have been commissioned and installation & Commissioning of 3 more Water Quality Equipment (1 GC-MS and 2 ICP-MS) is under process.
    • Consultancy services for “Early Flood Warning System Including Inundation Forecast in Ganga Basin” is in progress.
    • Consultancy services for Development of Decision Support System near to real time for Integrated Reservoir Operation System of Ganga Basin” has been completed.
    • Real Time Data Acquisition System (RTDAS) for Narmada Control Authority (NCA) and Arunachal Pradesh comprising of network of 48 & 50 no’s hydro meteorological Stations respectively has been commissioned.
    • Reservoir Sedimentation Studies using Hydrographic survey for 32 reservoirs” under National Hydrology Project, Phase-I have been completed and reports published and under Phase II studies in respect of 87 reservoirs are taken up.
    1. DAM REHABILITATION AND IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (DRIP) Phase-II and III

    Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) is an externally aided project with financial assistance from the World Bank, targeting rehabilitation of some of the selected dams of the Country along with accompanying institutional strengthening component.

    Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (Phase-II & III):

    Based on the success of DRIP Phase- I, Ministry of Jal Shakti initiated another externally funded scheme, DRIP Phase-II and Phase-III. The Union Cabinet has approved the Scheme on October 29, 2020.

    The scheme has provision for rehabilitation of 736 dams located in 19 States (Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, and three Central Agencies (Central Water Commission, Bhakra Beas Management Board, and Damodar Valley Corporation). It is a State Sector Scheme with Central component, with duration of 10 years, to be implemented in two Phases i.e. Phase- II and Phase-III, each of six years duration with an overlap of two years. The budget outlay is Rs 10,211 Cr (Phase II: Rs 5107 Cr; Phase III: Rs 5104 Cr) with rehabilitation provision of 736 dams. Out of this cost, Rs. 7,000 crore is an external loan and Rs. 3,211 crores would be borne by the respective participating States and the three Central agencies. The funding pattern of scheme is 80:20 (Special Category States), 70:30 (General Category States) and 50:50 (Central Agencies). The scheme also has provision of Central Grant of 90% of loan amount for special category States (Manipur, Meghalaya and Uttarakhand). The DRIP Phase-II and III Scheme is 10 years duration, proposed to be implemented in two Phases, each of six-year duration with two years overlapping. Each Phase has external assistance of US$ 500 M. The Phase-II of the scheme is being co-financed by World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), with funding of US$ 250 million each. The loan agreement by World Bank was signed on August 04, 2021 with 10 States (Gujarat, Kerala, MP, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Rajasthan, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Chhattisgarh) and became effective from 12th October, 2021. In addition to 10 States, four States (Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Karnataka) have been notified by World Bank for inclusion under this scheme in June 2022 and their loan declared effective in January 2023.

    The loan agreement by AIIB was signed on 19th May, 2022 with 10 States (Gujarat, Kerala, MP, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Rajasthan, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Chhattisgarh) and declared effective on 29th December, 2022 by AIIB.

    Inclusion of four States (Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Punjab, Telangana) and two Central Agencies (BBMB and DVC) is under process.

    Important project achievements include approval of PSTs of 139 dams costing Rs 3715 Cr by the World Bank. The contract(s) amounting approximately Rs 2906 Cr have been awarded by various Implementing Agencies and an amount of Rs 1487 Cr spent as on 30.11.2024 on various project activities including dam rehabilitation, institutional strengthening and project management activities

    A training on DRIP Ph-II &Ph-III was given to 40 officers of Punjab WRD on 12th June 2024 at Shahpur Kandi. Few topics were covered like Overview of DRIP Ph-II &Ph-III scheme; dam structural problems & their identification; Procurement procedures; Hydro-Mechanical structural problems; PST preparation; Financial Management of DRIP scheme etc.

    A three days training on DFR organized during 8th to 10th July, 2024, in which 22 participants from seven (7) states and CWC participated.

     The Management Information System (MIS-with 05 modules) was officially rolled out to SPMU on 14th  August 2024. In this regard a virtual MIS demonstration was organized on 14th August 2024 in which concerned officials of CPMU, SPMU, and EMC participated.

    2nd meeting of National Level Steering Committee (NLSC) on DRIP Phase-II and III chaired by Secretary, DoWR, RD and GR were held on 25.09.2024 at New Delhi to discuss the progress and issues of DRIP Scheme.

    3rd  meeting of Technical Committee of DRIP Phase II and III was held on 18.10.2024 under the chairmanship of Member (D&R), CWC at Dehradun, Uttarakhand in which nodal officer and Project Director of DRIP IAs participated. Deliberations in respect of technical matters with regard to pertaining to implementation of the scheme were held during the meeting.

    1. National Task Force for Integrated Water Resources Development and Management

    National Task Force for Integrated Water Resources Development and Management (NTFIWRDM) has been set up by DoWR, RD & GR vide its OM dated 25.11.2024.

    Sustainable development of water resources and its efficient management is the key to water security and economic growth. As a country, aspiring to be the world leader with the most powerful economy, challenges like increasing population, economic growth, industrialization and urbanization are bound to result in increased and conflicting demands for various purposes across the country. Moreover, the vagaries of climate change have already started to affect the water sector adversely. In the wake of ever-growing challenges in the water resources sector, it has become necessary to prospectively assess the projected water use for various purposes. In view of above, Department of Water Resources, RD & GR has set up a National Task Force for Integrated Water Resources Development and Management (NTFIWRDM) on 25.11.2024 under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Member, Niti Aayog with members from various Govt. Departments and experts from different organisations; thereby comprehensively covering various domains of water resources. Chief Engineer, BPMO, CWC is the Member Secretary of the NTFIWRDM. The NTFIWRDM – 2024 is expected to complete its work within 24 months, with interim reports submitted at yearly intervals.

    (xxii) LIST OF IMPORTANT PUBLICATIONS OF CWC during 2024

    Sl. No.

    Publication

    Released during

    1

    Water Sector at a Glance-2022

    Aug-2024

    2

    Water & Related Statistics-2023

    Sept-2024

    3

    Water Sector at a Glance-2023

    Sept-2024

    4

    National Register of Major & Medium

    Irrigation Projects in India-2024

    Sept-2024

    5

    Compendium on Sedimentation of Reservoirs in India

    August 2024

    6

    Assessment of Area Affected Due to Floods in India

    July 2024

    7

    Report on Flood Damage Statistics (1953-2022)

    July 2024

    8

    Assessment of Area Affected Due to Floods

    in India [Part II: Assessment at Sub-District Level]

    September 2024

    9

    Criteria for Risk Indexing of Glacial Lakes in

    Indian Himalayan Region

    September 2024

    10

    Status Report on Coastal Area Management –

    An Indian Perspective, Regional Issues & Remedial Measures

    September 2024

     

    1. ​Central Ground Water Board (CGWB):

    National Aquifer Mapping and Management Programme (NAQUIM)

    Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) is implementing National Aquifer Mapping and Management program (NAQUIM), which envisages mapping of aquifers (water bearing formations), their characterization and development of Aquifer Management Plans to facilitate sustainable management of ground water resources. Out of 32 lakh sq km of the entire country, entire mappable area of 25 sq lakh km has been covered under this programme. NAQUIM outputs are shared with various stakeholders including the District Authorities. Building on the experiences of the NAQUIM, the NAQUIM 2.0 has been initiated from the year 2023-24 which emphasizes on detailed mapping and implementable management plans for identified priority areas. CGWB has completed 68 such studies (covering nearly 40,000 sq km) in year 2024.

    In order to create infrastructure for data generation under NAQUIM, a Project has been approved by the Public Investment Board (PIB) with an outlay of Rs 805 Cr for implementation by CGWB during the period 2022-2026.  As of now, tenders amounting approximately Rs. 550 Cr have been awarded. 

    One of the components of the project involves the construction of 7000 piezometers and the installation of Digital Water Level Recorders with telemetry devices for strengthening and automation of groundwater monitoring networks in the country.  Construction of piezometers for strengthening groundwater monitoring has been initiated in 15 states (Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, MadhyaPradesh, Chhattisgarh, UttarPradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, WestBengal, Odisha and Jammu&Kashmir).  A total of 1796 piezometers have been constructed till 31st December 2024.

    Another component of the project involves construction of 1135 Exploratory Wells (EW) and Observation Wells (OW) for completing the data gap in the NAQUIM project area for which work has been initiated under all awarded packages in 11 states (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Assam). A total of 319 EW/OWs have been constructed till 31st December 2024.

    Ground Water Resources

     

    The Ground Water Resource Assessment for the water year 2024 was carried out jointly by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and States/UTs, through the web-based automated application “INDIA-GROUNDWATER RESOURCE ESTIMATION SYSTEM (IN-GRES) for the entire country. The assessment provides the state wise ground water resource scenario and insights required to adopt an integrated and sustainable ground water management in the Country.

    As per the assessment, the total annual groundwater recharge in the country has been assessed as 446.90 billion Cubic Meter (BCM). The annual extractable ground water resource has been assessed as 406.19 BCM. The annual groundwater extraction for all uses is 245.64 BCM. The average stage of groundwater extraction for the country stands at 60.47 %. Out of the total 6746 assessment units (Blocks/ Mandals/ Talukas) in the country, 4951 (73.4 %) assessment units are categorized as ‘Safe’. 711 (10.5 %) assessment units are categorized “Semi-critical’’, 206 (3.05 %) assessment units, have been categorized as ‘Critical’ and 751 (11.1%) assessment units have been categorized as ‘Over-exploited’. Apart from these, there are 127 (1.8%) assessment units, which have been categorized as ‘Saline’ as major part of the ground water in phreatic aquifers in these units is brackish or saline.

    Key Highlights:

    • Total Annual GW Recharge has increased (15 BCM) substantially and Extraction has declined (3 BCM) in 2024 from 2017 assessment. There is slight reduction in recharge and increase in extraction in the present assessment year compared to the preceding year.
    • Recharge from Tanks, Ponds and WCS has shown a consistent increase in the last five assessments. In the year 2024, it has increased by 0.39 BCM w.r.t. 2023.
    • With respect to the year 2017, there is an increase of 11.36 BCM in recharge from Tanks, Ponds & WCS (from 13.98 BCM in 2017 to 25.34 BCM in 2024).
    • The percentage of Assessment Units under Safe Category have increased from 62.6% in 2017 to 73.4 % in 2024 (The percentage of Safe assessment units was 73.14 % in 2023).
    • The percentage of Over Exploited Assessment units have declined from 17.24 % in 2017 to 11.13 % in 2024 (The percentage of OE Assessment units was 11.23% in 2023)

    The Union Minister for Jal Shakti released “National Compilation of Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India 2024” on 31st December, 2024.

    High resolution aquifer mapping and management in Arid areas of India

    • The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) has undertaken high resolution aquifer mapping in the arid regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana using advanced heliborne geophysical surveys. Under Phase I of the project, an area of 97,637 sq. km has been surveyed, covering 40,313-line km across 92 blocks in these states.
    • Based on the heliborne geophysical survey results, Gram Panchayat-level information of saturated/de-saturated, saline/fresh aquifers, groundwater potential zones, drilling sites, and managed aquifer recharge sites has been identified. Detailed reports have been prepared for 39 out of 92 blocks, comprising 20 blocks in Gujarat, 11 in Rajasthan, and 8 in Haryana.
    • A Coffee Table Book on the Summary of the findings of Heliborne Survey Phase I was released on 19.09.2024 in India Water Week-2024 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi by the Hon’ble Minister of State, Jal Shakti.

    Artificial Recharge Activities

    Groundwater augmentation through artificial recharge in identified water stressed areas of Rajasthan, comprising Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Alwar, Jhunjhunu & Sikar districts of Rajasthan has been taken up in three phases

    • Phase-1: Two large dams have been constructed:
      • Zoned Earth Fill Dam with Clay Core, Indroka, Mandore, Jodhpur
      • Concrete Gravity Dam, Bastawa Mata, Balesar, Jodhpur.
    • Phase-2: 82 WHS (Stone Masonary Check Dams (MCD), Anicuts, Concrete Check Dams (CCD & Recharge shafts) have been constructed in certain water stressed blocks of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Sikar district.
    • Phase-3: 39 WHS (Check Dam, Anicut, Model Talab) have been constructed certain water stressed blocks in Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Alwar districts of Rajasthan to know the concentrated effect of artificial recharge.

    Regulation of Ground Water extraction

    • The primary role of Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) is to regulate groundwater resource exploitation in the country. The Authority has been regulating groundwater development and management by way of issuing ‘No Objection Certificates’ for groundwater extraction to industries, infrastructure projects, Mining Projects, registration of drilling rigs etc., and framed guidelines in this connection.

     

    • Development of a new portal for NoC issuance to ground water users i.e. BhuNeer APP, which is an advanced version of the application processing software of CGWA for issuing NOC to ground water users of Industries, Infrastructure & Mining projects and Bulk Water Supply. The motto of developing this portal is to provide users a smooth experience with new features and functionalities.

    Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training & Research Institute (RGNGWTRI) 

    It is the training wing of CGWB and functions as a `Centre of Excellence’ with the national role of capacity building of Officers and Officials of CGWB, other Central Govt. Depts., State Govt. Depts., Public Sector Undertakings, Non-Governmental Organizations, Academic institutions and other stake holders through three arms -Tier I (National Level), Tier II (State Level) and Tier III (Block level) trainings.

    • During the last 10 years, from 2012-13 to 2024-25(As on 24.12.2024) a total of 1711 training courses (Tier-I, Tier-II & Tier-III) were organized (Male 83,330 + Female 30,369 = 1,13,699 Participants) by RGNGWTRI, Raipur.
    • The institute has also conducted Four trainings for foreign nationals, during the last 10 years

    Development of three Indigenous Softwares as part of Smart India Hackathon (SIH) 2022- a significant step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat

    • Smart India Hackathon (SIH), a nationwide initiative envisioned under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister is an important mega annual event among students to provide solutions through innovations for specific challenges identified by different organizations. It is an annual event organized by the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell, All India Council for Technical Education, along with partners. Based on problem statements shared by CGWB and under the mentorship of CGWB scientists, following three software applications were developed by engineering students as a part of Smart India Hackathon (SIH)
    • Hydra-Q: A Standalone desktop application for analysis, visualization and interpretation of hydrochemical data.
    • Aqua Probe: A Standalone desktop application for Pumping Test data analysis.
    • OASIS-G: Online application System for Stable Isotope Studies-Ground Water

    The software applications can be accessed / downloaded from CGWB website (https://www.cgwb.gov.in/freewares-groundwater-data-analysis).

    These freeware applications will be useful for students, researchers and groundwater professionals. So far, the software that are used for such kind of analysis are developed mostly in countries other than India. This is a significant step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat and is likely to reduce India’s dependence on foreign software.

    Aquifer Management for Augmentation and Sustainability of Urban Water Supply- Faridabad

     

    CGWB has taken up a study on augmentation of water supply to Faridabad city through sustainable ground water development in active Yamuna flood plain in 2024. CGWB has signed MoU with Faridabad Metropolitan Development Authority (FMDA)

    Ground Water Quality Analysis

     

    The comprehensive assessment of Ground Water Quality conducted by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) provides valuable insights that can guide remedial actions and inform future planning by various stakeholders. Notably, this report on Ground Water Quality is the first to implement a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for groundwater quality monitoring, which ensures consistency in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Additionally, the use of internationally recognized methods significantly bolsters the credibility and technical rigor of the findings. On December 31, 2024, Sh. CR Paatil, Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti, unveiled the Annual Groundwater Quality Report, 2024.

    Key Highlights:

    • In terms of cation chemistry, calcium dominates the ion content, followed by sodium and potassium. For anions, bicarbonate is the most prevalent, followed by chloride and sulphate. This indicates that overall water in the country is of Calcium-Bicarbonate type.
    • Some regions face sporadic contamination of nitrates, fluoride, and arsenic.
    • Seasonal trends observed in parameters like Electrical Conductivity (EC) and fluoride provide evidence of positive monsoon recharge effects, which improve water quality.
    • From an agricultural perspective, the analysis of Sodium Adsorption Ration (SAR) and Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC) reinforces the generally favorable suitability of groundwater for irrigation, with over 81% of samples meeting safe thresholds. However, localized issues of high sodium content and RSC values demand targeted interventions to prevent long-term soil degradation.
    • 100% of ground water samples in North-Eastern States are in excellent category for irrigation.
    1.     Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)

    Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) for 2021-26 with an outlay of ₹93,068 Crore to benefit about 22 lakh farmers

    • Against a target of 34.63 Lakh Ha irrigation potential of 25.80Lakh Ha (approx.74.5%) created through AIBP works of the prioritized projects during 2016-17 to 2023-24
    • Nine (09) new MMI projects and two (02) new National projects have been further included under PMKSYAIBP.

     

    Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)- Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP):

    The Government of India on 27.07.2016 approved funding of the 99 prioritized irrigation projects (and 7 phases) with an estimated balance cost of Rs. 77,595 Crore (Central share- Rs. 31,342 crores; State share- Rs. 46,253 crores) for completion in phases. The works include both the AIBP and CAD works. Funding arrangement for both Central Assistance (CA) and State Share made through NABARD under Long Term Irrigation Fund (LTIF). Targeted Irrigation Potential to be created under the scheme is 34.63 Lakh ha. An expenditure of Rs. 68891 crore (upto March 2024) has been reported to be incurred by the concerned State Governments on these projects since 2016-17. In January 2020, Ministry of Finance conveyed the continuation of ongoing centrally sponsored scheme up-to 31.03.2021.

     

    Physical Progress: Against the target of 34.63 Lakh Ha. Irrigation Potential of about 25.80 Lakh ha. has been created through AIBP works of the prioritized projects during 2016-17 to 2023-24. The potential created during 2024-25 shall be available only after the end of cropping season.

     

    Project Completed under PMKSY-AIBP: AIBP works of 62 prioritized projects out of identified 99 projects (and 7 phases) were reported to be completed till date.

    The Government of India has approved implementation of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) for 2021-26 with an outlay of ₹93,068 Crore on date 15-Dec-2021 to benefit about 22 Lakh farmers. The Union Cabinet has approved central support of ₹37,454 Crore to States and ₹20,434.56 Crore of debt servicing for loan availed by Government of India for irrigation development during PMKSY 2016-21. Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme, ‘Har Khet Ko Paani’ and Watershed Development components have been approved for continuation during 2021-26. Total additional irrigation potential creation targeted during 2021-26 under AIBP is 13.88 Lakh hectare. Apart from focused completion of 60 ongoing projects including their 30.23 lakh hectare command area development, 9 additional projects have been taken up till date. Also, two national projects, namely Renukaji Dam Project (Himachal Pradesh) and Lakhwar Multipurpose Project (Uttarakhand) have also been included for central funding of 90% of works of water component under the scheme.

     Inclusion of new Major/Medium Irrigation (MMI) projects as well as funding of National Projects under AIBP.

     Financial progress requirement is dropped for inclusion of a project underAIBPand only physical progress of 50% to be considered.

     Advanced stage (50% physical progress) criteria are relaxed for projects having command area of 50% or more in Drought Prone Area Programme (DPAP), tribal, Desert Development Programme (DDP), Flood prone, Tribal area, Flood prone area, left wing extremism affected area, Koraput, Balangir and Kalahandi (KBK) region of Odisha, Vidarbha& Marathwada regions of Maharashtra and Bundelkhand region of Madhya Pradesh & Uttar Pradesh, as also for Extension Renovation Modernization (ERM) projects and also for States with net irrigation below national average.

     Reimbursement is allowed for due central assistance in subsequent year also.

       Project completion permitted with physical progress of 90% or more.

     Online Management Information System (MIS) has been developed for monitoring of the projects. A nodal officer for each of the 99 priority projects has been identified who updates the physical and financial progress of the project regularly in the MIS.

     GIS based Application has been developed for geo-tagging of project components. Remote Sensing Techniques have been used for digitization of the canal network of the projects. Further, the Cropped Area estimation in the command of 99 priority projects is being carried out annually through remote sensing.

     To resolve the issue of Land Acquisition (LA) and increase water conveyance efficiency, use of Underground Pipeline (UGPL) has been actively promoted. Guidelines for Planning and Design ofPiped Irrigation Network were released by this Ministry in July, 2017.

     Pari-passu implementation of Command area development works in the commands of these projects is envisaged to ensure that the Irrigation Potential Created could be utilized by the farmers. New Guidelines bringing focus on Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM) have been brought out. Further, transfer of control and management of irrigation system to the Water Users’ Association (WUA) has been made necessary condition for the acceptance of CADWM completion.

    The Financial Progress under PMKSY-AIBP is as follows:

     

    Funds Released

    2016-17 to 2023-24

    2024-25 (so far)

    Total

    Central Assistance for AIBP projects

    including special and National Projects

    18550.98

    629.22

    19180.20

    State Share

    33830.83

    180.60

    34011.4

    Total

    52,381.81

    809.82

    53191.6

     

    Special Package for Maharashtra: A Special Package approved on 18.07.2018 which provides Central Assistance to complete 83 Surface Minor Irrigation (SMI) projects and 8 Major / Medium Irrigation Projects in drought prone districts in Vidarbha and Marathwada and rest of Maharashtra in phases up to 2023-24 (extended till March-25). The overall balance cost of the said projects as on 1.4.2018 is estimated to be Rs.13651.61 Crore. Total CA is estimated to be Rs. 3831.41 Crore including reimbursement for expenditureduring 2017-18Balancepotentialof 3. 77 Lakh Ha would be created on completion of these schemes. CA of Rs. 2901.63 crores have been released under the scheme so far. Under the scheme, 53 SMI and 2 MMI projects have been reported to be completed by the State Government of Maharashtra. Overall irrigation potential of 1.66 Lakh ha. has been reported to be created through all these projects during 2018-19 to 2023-24. Further potential created during 2024-25 shall be available only after the end of cropping season.

    Modernization of Command Area Development & Water Management (M-CADWM):

    The Ministry of Jal Shakti is reviewing the CADWM programme to make it more relevant in the current context of water use efficiency and agricultural productivity. The proposed change is a proposed smart irrigation scheme which envisages transforming the existing command (whether rain fed or gravity based) to a Pressurized Piped Irrigation Command (PPIC) by providing pressurized irrigation water from Established source to Farm Gate below Minor (Tertiary) Level Network. This will make the entire command area micro-irrigation ready with robust back-end infrastructure using Surface Water. The farmers shall be empowered by creating a Water User Society, which will also be an “economic entity”.

    The Scheme will develop suitable models for different Agro-Climatic zones, integrating various sources of water, and different levels of water availability, covering both areas of assured irrigation and protected irrigation. These models will pave the way for development of a National Plan for Modernization of water management in rural area in general and irrigation services in particular based on integrated, sustainable, efficient and inclusive water management.

    Polavaram Irrigation Project: Polavaram Irrigation Project was declared as National Project under Section 90 of AP Reorganization Act, 2014, which came into force on 1st  March 2014. The project with 2467.50 m of earth-cum-rock fill dam and 1121.20 m long spillway aims at irrigating 2.91 Lakh ha in erstwhile East Godavari, Visakhapatnam, West Godavari and Krishna districts besides several other benefits envisaged by it. Central Government is funding 100% of the remaining cost of the irrigation component of the project, as on 01.04.2014. Government of Andhra Pradesh is executing the irrigation component of the project on behalf of Government of India. The approved cost of the Project as per Revised Cost Committee (RCC) is Rs 29,027.95 cr at 2013-14 PL and Rs 47,725.74 cr at 2017-18 PL up to FRL i.e. EL +45.72 m. After declaration as National Project, a sum of Rs. 15,605.96 cr has been released for execution of Polavaram Irrigation Project so far.

    The Union Cabinet has approved the revised cost of the PIP in its meeting held on 28.08.2024, with water storage upto EL + 41.15 m at a cost of Rs. 30,436.95 cr with balance central grant for the project limited to Rs. 12,157.53 cr. Further, an amount of Rs. 2,348 cr has been released on 09.10.2024 as advance payment to GoAP on account of execution of Polavaram Irrigation Project in addition to the reimbursement of Rs 15,605.96 cr made to GoAP.

    As reported by Water Resource Department, Government of Andhra Pradesh, an expenditure of Rs 18,348.84 cr has been incurred on the project works up to 30.11.2024, after declaration of Polavaram irrigation project (PIP) as National Project.

    1.  Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal)

    Atal BhujalYojana (Atal Jal) is a Central Sector Scheme of Government of India with an outlay of Rs 6000 Crore, with focus on community participation and demand side interventions for sustainable ground water management in identified water stressed areas in 8203 water stressed Gram Panchayats of 229 administrative blocks/Talukas in 80 districts of seven States in the country viz. Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. The scheme, partly funded by the World Bank, is being implemented from 1.04.2020 for a period of 6 years.

    This unique scheme aims at increasing the capacity of States to manage their ground water resources and for ensuring their long-term sustainability with active participation of the local communities through a mix of top-down and bottom-up approaches. It also envisages convergence of various ongoing schemes for implementation of interventions for improving ground water availability with emphasis on demand management and also to inculcate behavioral changes in the community to ensure optimal use of available water resources.

    The launch of Atal Bhujal Yojana heralds a change in the Government policy for ground water management by emphasizing the importance of community participation in planning, execution, and monitoring of scheme activities; convergence of ongoing schemes for implementing interventions aimed at improving ground water availability; focus on demand side management through improving water use efficiency and incentivizing participating States for awareness creation among the masses on the importance of ground water.

    Atal Bhujal Yojana also envisages improving the capacity of States for ground water governance through strengthening of institutions dealing with ground water management, improving ground water monitoring networks, creation of awareness among the public on the importance and criticality of ground water resources and building the capacity of the grass root level stakeholders to plan and utilize the available resources in a judicious manner. It also addresses the gender perspective by making it mandatory to include women in all activities of the scheme.

    Atal Bhujal Yojana is expected to improve ground water conditions in the target areas and to contribute significantly to ensure ground water sustainability for interventions planned under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). It is also expected to contribute to the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s goal of doubling farmers’ income and to result in optimal use of ground water by the stakeholders in the long-run.

    Further, to bridge the gap in the data availability at the GP level for better water management across India, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation in collaboration with Ministry of Panchayati Raj has taken the initiative to expand water budgeting exercise to non-Atal Jal areas as well by their inclusion in the Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs).

    Key achievements under Atal Bhujal Yojana are as follows:

    • Public disclosure of data in all the Atal Jal GPs through various modes of disclosure viz., central/state web portals, display board at each GP, social media, wall paintings, distribution of pamphlets/brochure, public meetings and Atal Jal Mobile application.
    • States have used innovative measures like Groundwater Data Information Dissemination Centers, QR codes, social media, etc., to disseminate the groundwater related data to public.
    • Community led Water Budget and WSPs prepared for all the 8203 GPs and updated on yearly basis.
    • Groundwater monitoring system has been strengthened at GP level by providing equipment like Digital Water Level Recorders, water level indicators, rain gauges, water quality testing kits, water flow meters etc. In addition, piezometers have been constructed in GPs for monitoring of water levels.
    • A total of 49 State level, 410 District level, 1152 Block level and 99,406 GP level trainings have been conducted so far.
    • Awareness and sensitization at GP level through innovative Information Education and Communication practices like narrowcasting in Haryana, folk dances/songs in Karnataka, Jal dindis in Maharashtra, Ratri Choupals in Rajasthan have been used to drive the message of sustainable groundwater management.
    • Investment of Rs. 4355 Crore towards implementation of interventions proposed under WSPs through convergence.
    • An area of around 6.7 lakh Hectares has been brought under efficient water use practices including Drip, Sprinkler, Mulching, Crop Diversification etc.
    • More than 70,000 wells are being monitored for water level at GP level and shared with community.
    • More than 90,000 existing Water Conservation and Artificial Recharge structures have been mapped.
    • 813 GPs in 47 Blocks have shown improvement in ground water level.
    • A total of Rs.3420.57 Cr. has been disbursed to the States since the inception of the scheme. A total of Rs.2863.98 Cr. has been utilized by the States since the inception of the scheme.
    • Sixth meeting of National Level Steering Committee (NLSC) for implementation of Atal Bhujal Yojana was held on 07 June 2024.

     

    1. Minor Irrigation Statistics: Progress under the scheme “Irrigation Census”:

     

    Minor Irrigation Census conducted quinquennially in order to create a sound and reliable database on groundwater and surface water minor irrigation schemes in the country. The Minor Irrigation Census is conducted under the centrally sponsored scheme “Irrigation Census” with 100% central funding through which State Statistical Cells constituted under different States/UTs are also supported.

     

    The sixth Minor Irrigation Census and the first Census of Water bodies covering all water bodies in the country, both rural and urban have been completed. All India and State-wise report on 6th Minor Irrigation Census and First Census of Water Bodies has been published and are available at the Department website ‘https://jalshakti-dowr.gov.in’. Key results have been disseminated on Bhuvan portal and the state wise unit level data has also been disseminated on Open Government Data (OGD) platform.

    During 2024, the following progress under the scheme “Irrigation Census” has been achieved:

    • 7th Minor Irrigation Census and 2nd Census of Water Bodies are underway, along with two new censuses: the 1st Census of Springs and the 1st Census of Major and Medium Irrigation Projects, with reference year 2023-24.
    • An all-India Workshop on these Censuses was held in 2023, with participation from all States and Union Territories. NIC has developed a mobile/web application for these censuses, with pilot testing successfully conducted in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Meghalaya in month of October, 2024.
    • Six regional workshops for training of trainers for upcoming censuses are being conducted at regional centers in Tripura, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and West Bengal from December, 2024 to January, 2025 to provide training to trainers at State level for further capacity building.
    • Grands-in-aid to States/UTs were released timely on receipt of proposals from eligible States/UTs.

     

    1. ​Flood Management Wing (FM):

     

    Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP):

     

    The “Flood Management Programme (FMP)” and “River Management Activities and Works related to Border Areas” (RMBA) under operation during XII Five Year Plan were merged as “Flood Management and Border Areas Programme” (FMBAP) for the period 2017-18 to 2019-20 and further extended up-to March, 2021. Cabinet further approved the continuation of FMBAP scheme during 2021-22 to 2025-26 with an outlay of Rs. 4100 Crore (FMP-Rs. 2940 Crore and RMBA – Rs. 1160 Crore).

    Since the inception of FMBAP (till December 2024), Central Assistance of Rs. 7136 crores have been released to States/UTs under FMP component of Flood Management & Border Area Programme (FMBAP) scheme and Central Assistance of Rs. 1258.73 crores have been released to UTs/States under RMBA component of FMBAP scheme.

     

    Completion of balance works of North Koel Reservoir Project: DoWR, RD & GR has taken up the long pending project for completion of balance works of North Koel Reservoir Project, Bihar and Jharkhand. In August, 2017 the Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for balance works of North Koel Reservoir Project at an estimated cost of Rs. 1622.27 crore during three financial years from the start of the project. Subsequently, at the request of both State Governments, certain other components were found necessary to be included in the project. Complete lining of Right Main Canal (RMC) and Left Main Canal (LMC) was also regarded essential from technical considerations to derive envisaged irrigation potential. Thus, the works of Gaya distribution system, lining of RMC and LMC, remodeling of enroute structures, construction of a few new structures and onetime Special Package for R&R of Project Affected Families (PAFs) were to be provided for in the updated cost estimate. Accordingly, Revised Cost Estimate of the project was prepared. Out of the cost of balance works of Rs. 2430.76 crore, the Central would provide Rs.1836.41 crore. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval to the proposal to complete the balance works of North Koel Reservoir Project at a revised Cost of Rs. 2,430.76 crore on 04.10.2023. Project will provide irrigation benefit to 114,021 hectares of land annually in drought prone areas of Aurangabad and Gaya districts of Bihar and Palamau and Garwa districts of Jharkhand. Project also has the provision for supply of 44 MCM water for drinking and industrial water supply. The execution of balance works of the project on turnkey basis by M/s WAPCOS Ltd., a CPSU under DoWR, RD & GR as Project Management Consultant (PMC). 10% works on dam & appurtenant, 100% of additional works of Mohammad Ganjbarrage, 86% works on left main canal and works on Right Main Canal in Jharkhand Portion & 18% works on Bihar portion have been completed.

     

    India and Bangladesh Matters

     

    A Treaty was signed by the Prime Ministers of India and Bangladesh on 12th December, 1996 for the sharing of Ganga/Ganges waters at Farakka during the lean season. As per the Treaty, the Ganga/Ganges waters is being shared at Farakka (which is the last control structure on river Ganga in India) during lean period, from 1st  January to 31st  May every year, on 10-daily basis as per the formula provided in the Treaty. The validity of Treaty is 30 years. The sharing of water as per the Treaty is being monitored by a Joint Committee headed by Members, JRC from both sides. The following India-Bangladesh Joint Committee Meetings have been convened.

     

    • The 83rd  meeting of the Joint Committee on sharing of the Ganga/Ganges waters at Farakka was held at Dhaka on 24th  January, 2024 after a visit to the joint observation site at Hardinge Bridge, on 24th January, 2024.
    • The 84th  meeting of the Joint Committee on sharing of the Ganga/Ganges Waters at Farakka was held at Kolkata on 7th  March, 2024 after visit to the joint observation sites at Farakka on 5th  March, 2024.
    • The 85th  meeting of the Joint Committee on sharing of the Ganga/ Ganges waters at Farakka was held at Dhaka (Bangladesh) on 14th  November, 2024 for the finalization of Annual Report of the lean/dry season of the year 2024.

    During the 83rd  and 84th  Joint Committee meetings, the Indian delegation was led by Mr. Atul Jain, Commissioner (FM), Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Ministry of Jal Shakti. During the 85th Joint Committee meeting, the Indian delegation was led by Mr. Sharad Chandra, Commissioner (FM), Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of the Republic of India and Member, India-Bangladesh Joint Rivers Commission. The Bangladesh delegation was led by Dr. Mohammad Abul Hossen, Member, India-Bangladesh Joint Rivers Commission, Ministry of Water Resources, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

    1. National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD)

    Cleaning of river is a continuous process and Government of India is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the challenges of pollution of rivers by providing financial and technical assistance. Assistance is provided to State Governments for abatement of pollution in identified stretches of various rivers (excluding river Ganga and its tributaries) under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) on cost sharing basis between the Central & State Governments for taking up various pollution abatement works relating to interception & diversion of raw sewage, construction of sewerage systems, setting up of sewage treatment plants, low cost sanitation, river front/bathing ghat development, etc.

    • Project for ‘Pollution Abetment River Banganga at Katra’ in Jammu & Kashmir at a cost of Rs.92.10 crore was sanctioned.
    • Project for ‘Pollution Abetment and Conservation of river Mindhola at Surat’ in Gujarat at a cost of Rs.98.51 crore was sanctioned.
    • Project for ‘Interception & Diversion of Sewerage Water from Existing Drains to Nearest STP for Treatment Purposes in Jodhpur City for Pollution Abatement of River Jojari at Jodhpur’ in Rajasthan at a cost of Rs.13.10 crore was sanctioned.
    • Project for ‘Sewer rehabilitation of old and deteriorated pipes by Trenchless CIPP Technology for main trunk sewer lines heading towards Nandari and Salawas STPs for pollution abatement of Jojari River at Jodhpur’ in Rajasthan at a cost of Rs.51.99 crore was sanctioned.
    • Project for ‘Design of Complete Sewerage System and Proposal of Development of New STP for Jhalamand Area, Jodhpur for pollution abatement of river Jojari at Jodhpur’ in Rajasthan at a cost of Rs.53.63 crore was sanctioned.
    • Project for ‘Establishing and Commissioning of 30 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at Nandari for pollution abatement of river Jojari at Jodhpur’ in Rajasthan at a cost of Rs.53.86 crore was sanctioned.
    • Project for ‘Rejuvenation of Imphal-Manipur River and Faecal Sludge and Septage Management at 27 ULBs’ in Manipur at a cost of Rs.92.39 crore was sanctioned.
    • Project for ‘Elamkulam sewerage project for rejuvenating Chitrapuzha River through restoration of natural streams/outfalls carrying sewage/pollutants-Construction of STP 17.5 MLD’ in Kerala at a cost of Rs.47.53 crore was sanctioned.
    • Project for ‘Perandoor Sewerage Project for Rejuvenating Periyar River through Restoration of Natural Streams/Outfalls Carrying Sewage/Pollutants—Construction of 19 MLD STP (Part 1)’ in Kerala at a cost of Rs.49.78 crore was sanctioned.
    • Project Management Consultant has been appointed for implementation the project of ‘Pollution abatement and conservation of River Nag at Nagpur, Maharashtra’ sanctioned at a cost of Rs.1,926.99 crore with Japan International Cooperation Assistance.
    • Project for pollution abatement of river Devika and Tawi at Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir sanctioned for Rs.186.74 crore has been completed 3 sewage treatment plants (STPs) with total capacity of 13.06 mld constructed under NRCP.
    • Project for pollution abatement of river Tapi at Surat, Gujarat sanctioned for Rs. 971.25 crore has been completed 11 sewage treatment plants (STPs) with total capacity of 208.97 mld constructed under NRCP.
    • Central Assistance amounting to Rs. 425 crores released to various State Governments/Agencies for implementation of projects under NRCP.
    • Stakeholder Consultation Workshop on Guidelines for National River Conservation Plan and DPR Preparation held on 06th May, 2024 in the presence of Secretary, DoWR, RD & GR. The recommendation and suggestions of the stakeholders are under review and accordingly will be proposed in the revised guidelines of NRCP and DPR guidelines.
    • First meeting of the Stakeholder Advisory Committee (SAC) was held on 31.05.2024 under the Chairpersonship of Secretary, DoWR, RD & GR at Nagpur under the project Condition Assessment and Management Plan of Six River Basins (Cauvery, Periyar, Narmada, Mahanadi, Godavari and Krishna).
    • The project “Assessment of ecological status of 7 rivers viz. Narmada, Mahanadi, Godavari, Cauvery, Periyar, Pamba and Barak for conservation planning” has been entrusted to Wild Life Institute of India (WII) at a sanctioned cost of Rs. 24.56 crore in September, 2020. The project broadly aims to spearhead river conservation in above seven Indian rivers for biodiversity conservation and maintenance of ecosystem services. Intensive ecological studies will be carried out in the seven prioritized river basins of India and ecological status will be assessed. Stake Holders workshops of NRCD- WII held at Bengaluru, Karnataka Cauvery River basin.

     

    1. External Affairs & International Cooperation (EA&IC)

    DoWR, RD & GR has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with different countries on cooperation in the field of water resources management and development. For effective implementation of activities under the various signed MoUs, to enhance the collaboration under the MoU, certain activities were undertaken including Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting, the details of which is as follows –

     

    1. MoU with Denmark – The MoU between India and Denmark on Cooperation in the field of Water Resources Management was signed on 12.09.2022. Two projects namely “Centre of excellence on Smart Water Resources Management (CoESWaRM)” and “Smart Laboratories on Clean River (SLCR)” have been identified under the MoU. Indian side Joint Working Group was formed on 05.08.2024. First Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting under the MoU was held on 05th December 2024. In the meeting, it has been agreed to have organizational division at PMU level into two sub-thematic areas under the existing Centre of Excellence (CoE).

     

    1. MoU with European Union – The MoU between India and the European Union on Water Cooperation was signed on 01.10.2016. Three JWG meetings have been convened so far.  Third Meeting of JWG was convened on 12.07.2023 virtually. The 6th EU-India Water Forum meeting was held on 18.09.2024 during the 8th India Water Week in New Delhi. The forum inter-alia explored trilateral collaboration between East Africa, India and the EU to address water challenges in regions like Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika. 

     

    1. MoU with Israel: The MoU between India and Israel on Water Resources Management and Development Cooperation was signed on 11.11.2016. A Joint Review Committee (JRC) (Now Steering Committee) has been formed on 20.02.2024 to assess the activities and progress of the projects identified for implementation under the MoU. 1st meeting of the JRC was convened on 9th Oct 2024 recommending the proposal for the “Establishment of India-Israel Centre of Water Technology (CoWT)”.

     

    1. MoC with Japan (Water Resources): The Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between India and Japan in the area of Water Resources was signed on 11.12.2019. Two meetings of Joint Working Group (JWG) have been convened so far. 2nd JWG meeting was held on 14.11.2024. In the meeting both sides agreed for extension of the MoU and to identifying additional areas for collaboration.

     

    1. MoU with Morocco- The MoU between India and Morocco on cooperation in the field of Water Resources was signed on 14.12.2017. Four JWG meetings have been convened so far. Fourth JWG meeting was convened on 20.09.2024. It was agreed upon that both the countries will share their experiences, analysis, findings, policies and developments in the field of water resources in its next meeting of JWG.

     

    Bilateral Meetings of Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti with the Ministers of Foreign Nations during India Water Week 2024 in New Delhi: –

     

    • Denmark: Mr. C.R. Paatil, Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti met with H.E. Mr. Morten Bødskov, Denmark’s Minister of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs. Denmark’s Minister reaffirmed Denmark’s commitment to sustainable water solutions and highlighted the expertise of Danish companies in water management. The Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti proposed collaborative initiatives to develop scalable technologies for water challenges, suggesting pilot projects at the district level.
    • Guyana: A significant meeting took place between Mr. C. R. Paatil, Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti and Mr. Collin D. Croal, Hon’ble Minister of Housing & Water, Guyana. It was agreed upon that both the countries will share their experiences, policies and developments in the field of water resources
    • Tanzania: Mr. C. R. Paatil, Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti, India met with Mr. Mathew Andrea Kundo, Deputy Minister of Water, Tanzania. The Tanzanian Minister proposed discussions on a new project to transport water from Lake Victoria, estimated at $600 million, to address water challenges in Tanzania. Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti assured that this proposal would be deliberated upon in the Ministry positively.
    • Zimbabwe: A productive meeting took place between Mr. C. R. Paatil, Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti and Mr. Vangelis Peter Haritatos, Hon’ble Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe’s Minister sought innovative financing options beyond traditional avenues such as EXIM etc. Hon’ble Minister for Jal Shakti assured that these matters would be deliberated upon positively, emphasizing that improvements in Zimbabwe’s irrigation sector would significantly enhance food security across Africa.
    1. Barhmaputra & Barak (B&B) Wing

     

    Expert Level Mechanism (ELM)

    During the visit of the Hon’ble President of the People’s Republic of China to India on November 20-23, 2006, it was agreed to set up an Expert-Level Mechanism to discuss interaction and cooperation on provision of flood season hydrological data, emergency management and other issues regarding trans-border Rivers as agreed between them. Accordingly, the two sides have set up the Joint Expert Level Mechanism through a Joint Declaration by both the countries.

    The ELM meetings are held alternately in India and China every year. Fifteen meetings of ELM have been held so far. The 15th meeting of ELM was held at Beijing, China during 13th-14th August 2024. The GoI delegation was led by Shri S.K. Sinha, Commissioner (B&B), DoWR, RD & GR, Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Chinese delegation was led by Mr. Hao Zhao, Director General of the International Economic & Technical Cooperation and Exchange Centre, Ministry of Water Resources, People’s Republic of China.  Representatives of Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and Central Water Commission (CWC) had also participated in the meeting.

    (ii)        INDIA-BHUTAN COOPERATION

    1. Joint Group of Expert (JGE) on Flood Management:

    A Joint Group of Expert (JGE) on Flood Management has been constituted between India and Bhutan to discuss and assess the probable causes and effects of the recurring floods and erosion in the southern foothills of Bhutan and adjoining plains in India and recommend to both Governments appropriate and mutually acceptable remedial measures. Ten meetings of JGE have been held so far. The 10th meeting was held during 28th-29th February, 2024 at New Delhi, India. The GoI delegation was led by Shri S. K. Sinha, Commissioner (B&B), Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD& GR), Ministry of Jal Shakti, GoI and the RGoB delegation was led by Mr. Karma Dupchu, Director, National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM), RGoB.

    1. Joint Technical Team (JTT) on Flood Management:

    In accordance with the decision taken during the first meeting of JGE, a Joint Technical Team (JTT) on Flood Management between the two countries was constituted. The purpose of JTT is to assess the field situation and provide technical support to JGE on flood management. Eight meetings of JTT have been held so far. The 8th meeting of JTT was held during 18th–20th November, 2024 at Chalsa, Jalpaigudi, West Bengal. The Indian delegation was led by Shri G.L. Bansal, Chief Engineer, Brahmaputra Basin Organisation (BBO), Central Water Commission, GoI and the Bhutanese delegation was led by Dr. SingayDorji, Chief of Meteorological Services Division (MSD), National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology, RGoB.

    1. Joint Experts Team (JET) on Flood Forecasting:

    A Joint Experts Team (JET) consisting of senior officials from the Government of India and Royal Government of Bhutan(RGoB) continuously reviews the progress and other requirements of a network of 36 hydro-meteorological sites located in the catchments of trans-border rivers Puthimari, Pagladiya, Sankosh, Manas, Raidak, Torsa, Aie and Jaldhaka. So far, JET has met 38 times alternately in India and Bhutan since its reconstitution in 1992 and the last JET meeting i.e. 38th meeting was held at Mandarmani, West Bengal, India during 10th-11th December, 2024.

    The Indian delegation was led by Shri Subhrangshu Biswas, Chief Engineer, Teesta&Bagarathi-Damodar Basin Organisation (T&BDBO), Central Water Commission, GoI and the Bhutanese delegation was led by Mr. Karma Dupchu, Director, National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM), RGoB.

    13.     NERIWALM

    The North Eastern Regional Institute of Water and Land Management (NERIWALM), under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, continued its vital contributions to water and land management across North East India in 2024. As the only institute of its kind in the region, it upheld its mandate of capacity building and skill enhancementfor efficient management of water and land resources for irrigation and agriculture.

    During the year (January to December, 2024), the institute organized 76 training programmes, reaching 3,173 beneficiaries. Among these were induction-level courses for newly recruited engineers from the Irrigation and Agriculture Departments of Assam, as well as the Brahmaputra Board. A faculty development program on advancements in agriculture and water management was also conducted. NERIWALM collaborated with leading national institutions and agencies to host a two-day National Seminar on Advances in Irrigation Technologies and Management, fostering knowledge exchange and innovation.

    In research and development, the institute undertook a diverse range of projects sponsored by state and central government departments. Key initiatives included the preparation of State-Specific Action Plans for 19 states, evaluations of PMKSY-AIBP and PMKSY-HKKP irrigation projects in Assam and Meghalaya, research project on farmer participation in irrigation management in Manipur, studies on good water management practices and study on the impact of climate change on dam-related hydro-geomorphic and social aspects in Arunachal Pradesh.

    NERIWALM’s academic program also progressed with the enrollment of 15 students in the M.Tech course on Water Resource Management for the 2024-25 session. The institute further strengthened its credentials by developing e-learning modules on water resource management for the i-GOT platform. NERIWALM was accredited as “EXCELLENT” under the Capacity Building Commission’s National Standards, while its Soil and Water Laboratory achieved NABL accreditation.

    14.       NATIONAL HYDROLOGY PROJECT
     

    National Hydrology Project (NHP), with support from the World Bank, envisages establishing a system for timely and reliable water resources data acquisition, storage, collation and management. It has pan-India coverage with 48 Implementing Agencies (IAs) {12 from Central Government (including 3 from River Basin Organisations) and 36 from States/ UTs}. It will also provide tools and systems for informed decision making for water resources assessment, planning and management. The National Hydrology Project has been approved with an outlay of Rs. 3,679.77 Crore as a Central Sector Scheme with 100% grant to State Governments and Central Implementing Agencies. The project originally had a duration of 8 years from 2016-17 to 2023-24. However, Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance has accorded approval for extension of project till Sept-2025 within the same allocation.

    Broad objectives of NHP include: a) To improve the extent, quality, and accessibility of water resources information; b) To create decision support system for floods and basin level resource assessment/planning; and c) To strengthen the capacity of targeted water resources professionals and institutions in India.

    Under the ongoing NHP, almost 22960 Real Time Data Acquisition System (RTDAS) surface water and ground water stations have already been installed in the country. Besides, 46 Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) packages have been commissioned; almost 5667 piezometers constructed; 134 stationary as well as mobile water quality labs have been developed/procured/maintained and put into operation;
    high-resolution DEMs, CORS network as well as Geoid model have also been developed. Furthermore, Bathymetric surveys of 464 important reservoirs of the country covering 162 BCM have also been taken up under NHP of which 373 studies have already been completed. Further 36 State Data Centres / Regional data centres / knowledge centres, etc. have been completed under the ongoing NHP. The need for development & maintenance of appropriate institutional framework both at the Central as well as State level for water resources information system intended for collection, collation and dissemination of the database was given shape in the ongoing NHP. As envisaged in the Cabinet note, the National Water Resources Informatics Centre (NWIC) has been created in 2018 and is now functional. Additionally, the formation of the State Water Informatics Centres for development of respective State Water Resources Information Systems was expedited in the ongoing NHP. Till date almost 19 SWICs have already been formed with a few more under process. The information system covering hydro-meteorological, hydro-geological, sedimentation, morphological and water quality data is also important in the context of various studies being done under NHP which
    include IT Applications, Digital Products, geospatial hydro products, etc.

     

    15.     Surface Minor Irrigation (SMI) scheme

     

    Under the Surface Minor Irrigation (SMI) scheme, since 12th plan onwards, 7282 schemes are ongoing with an estimated cost of ₹ 16113.560 crores. Central Assistance (CA) of Rs. 9009.169 crores have been released to states up-to March, 2024. Further, 4965 schemes have been reported to be completed up-to March, 2024. Target irrigation potential creation of these schemes is 11.58 L Ha and out of this, 8.59 L Ha is reported to be created till March, 2024.

     

    16.     Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) of Water Bodies scheme

     

    Under the Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) of Water Bodies scheme, since 12th plan onwards, 3075schemes are ongoing with an estimated cost of Rs. 2834.692 crore. Central Assistance (CA) of Rs. 554.279Crore has been released to states up to March, 2024. Further, 2192 water bodies have been reported to be completed up to March, 2024. Target irrigation potential restoration of these schemes is 2.41 L Ha and out of this, 2.00 L Ha is reported to be restored till March, 2024

     

    18.       Mass Communication Internship programme

     

    DoWR, RD & GR undertook internship programme in mass communication on during 2024.  Students pursuing Degrees or are Research Scholars enrolled in recognized University/Institution in the field of Mass Communication in India are given opportunity to apply as “interns”. The Internship Programme provided short term exposure to “selected candidates” to be associated with the Department’s work related to media/social media activities. The objectives of the programme are to well acquaint the “Interns” with the working of the Department in field of media/social media related activities etc. and simultaneously the “interns” to supplement the process of mass publicity of this Department to create awareness about importance of development and management of water resources in holistic manner.

     

    03 interns were selected for an initial period of 6 months under the program.

    *****

    Dhanya Sanal K

    Director

    (Release ID: 2096022) Visitor Counter : 29

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China mulls revising arbitration law

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Chinese lawmakers on Monday started deliberating a draft revision to the Arbitration Law, focusing on addressing prominent issues in the arbitration system and practice.
    The draft revision was submitted to an ongoing session of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, the national legislature, for the first reading.
    This is the first major revision of the law since its promulgation in 1995.
    The draft aims to refine the legal framework of arbitration with Chinese characteristics, make it more compatible with international rules, and enhance the credibility and international competitiveness of arbitration, thus fostering a world-class business environment that is market-oriented, law-based and internationalized.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China sees progress in green transition, climate response

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China has scored remarkable achievements in green and low-carbon development in recent years, accelerating its green transition on multiple fronts while actively contributing to global actions against climate change.
    Green transition
    Wen Hua, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission, said that China’s progress in green development was manifested in several aspects, citing the policy framework for carbon peaking and neutrality, an optimized industrial structure, and higher resource utilization efficiency, among others.
    China has established a “1+N” policy framework for carbon peaking and neutrality, which includes two overarching documents as top-level design, 12 implementation plans targeting specific sectors and industries, and supporting plans covering sectors such as science, technology and finance, Wen said.
    The industrial structure has also been upgraded. While improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions from existing projects, China has set strict energy and environmental standards for new projects.
    In particular, Wen underscored the positive impacts of the large-scale equipment upgrades and trade-ins of consumer goods programs implemented since the start of the year.
    The scheme serves not only as a robust measure to boost investment and consumption, but also a crucial climate policy. By promoting the application of advanced and energy-saving products and equipment, the program has helped reduce energy and carbon intensities across society, Wen said.
    Dong Wancheng, an official with the National Energy Administration, highlighted the country’s intensified efforts in energy transition. Dong said that China has boosted the development of clean energy, with the share of clean energy in total energy use increasing 10.9 percentage points over the past decade.
    Global contribution
    While speeding up its transition towards green and low-carbon growth, China has also played an active role in global climate change mitigation.
    China’s energy transition is making an increasing contribution to the world, said Dong, adding that the country has been sharing high-quality clean energy products with other countries, contributing to the world’s energy transition and carbon reduction.
    For instance, China’s wind power and photovoltaic product exports helped other countries reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 810 million tonnes in 2023, according to the white paper issued by China’s State Council Information Office in August this year.
    Xia Yingxian, an official with the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, said that China has placed great importance on tackling climate change and has made new strides in this regard.
    According to Xia, China’s carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP have logged a sustained decline, and its carbon market mechanism has been further strengthened. He emphasized that the country will steadily expand its national carbon trading market and strive to ensure its healthy and stable operation.
    Noting that the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is approaching, Xia said that China will continue to play a positive and constructive role in negotiations.
    Azerbaijan has been selected as the Presidency of the COP29, to be hosted in Baku this November.
    Xia said that China will work with all other parties to support Azerbaijan’s Presidency in achieving positive outcomes from the COP29. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China creates 2.45 million jobs through work-relief programs

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China has promoted the implementation of work-relief programs by local governments in key projects as well as agricultural and rural infrastructure projects to boost employment, the country’s top economic planning body said Monday.
    In the first three quarters of 2024, these programs created a total of 2.45 million jobs for low-income workers, a year-on-year increase of 30.2 percent, and distributed 31 billion yuan (about 4.35 billion U.S. dollars) in wages, up 22.7 percent from a year earlier, according to the National Development and Reform Commission.
    These work-relief programs are aimed at people in need of employment, especially rural residents who have been lifted out of poverty, vulnerable individuals prone to returning to poverty, and migrant workers who have gone back to their hometowns.
    The commission will continue to give full play to the role of these programs in creating jobs for low-income workers and increasing their incomes, it said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The warmest October

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The warmest October
    The warmest October
    *******************

         Mainly attributable to the weaker northeast monsoon over southern China, October 2024 was much warmer than usual in Hong Kong. The monthly mean maximum temperature of 30.3 degrees, monthly mean temperature of 27.3 degrees and monthly mean minimum temperature of 25.4 degrees were 2.2 degrees, 1.6 degrees and 1.5 degrees respectively above their corresponding normals and all of them were the highest on record for October. There were three very hot days in the month, one of the highest on record for October. The month was also much drier than usual with a total rainfall of 11.3 millimetres, only about 9 per cent of the normal figure of 120.3 millimetres. The accumulated rainfall this year up to October was 2 115.6 millimetres, about 10 per cent lower than the normal figure of 2 363.1 millimetres for the same period.      Super Typhoon Krathon over the northeastern part of the South China Sea moved slowly towards the southern part of Taiwan on October 1 and 2. It weakened into a typhoon and made landfall over the coast of Gaoxiong on the afternoon of October 3. Krathon rapidly weakened into an area of low pressure over the southern part of Taiwan the next morning. Under the influence of the outer subsiding air of Krathon, it was mainly fine and very hot in Hong Kong on the first day of the month. The temperatures at the Observatory soared to a maximum of 34.2 degrees on that afternoon, the highest of the month and also the third-highest absolute maximum temperature for October. Moreover, the daily mean temperature of 30.9 degrees on the same day was the highest on record for October.      Meanwhile, a strong northeast monsoon gradually affected the coast of Guangdong on October 1, and local winds strengthened from the north in the afternoon. Under the influence of the monsoon, it was slightly cooler in the morning of October 2 and 3, and the weather was mainly fine and dry during the day. The weather remained mainly fine and dry during the day from October 4 to 8. With a band of clouds covering the coastal areas of Guangdong, the weather turned cloudier with a few light rain patches on October 9. While it was dry with sunny periods during the day on October 10, an easterly airstream set in at night and brought rainy weather to Hong Kong that night and the next morning. The rain was heavier on the morning of October 11, and more than 20 millimetres of rainfall were recorded over the eastern part of the territory. The weather turned dry with sunny intervals in the afternoon.      Under the influence of a dry easterly airstream, apart from a few rain patches on the morning of October 12, the weather was mainly fine and dry during the day from October 12 to 15. Affected by upper-air disturbances, the weather turned cloudier with a few showers from October 16 to 18. It was mainly fine with some haze on October 19. With light winds and plenty of sunshine, the maximum temperature recorded at the Observatory in the afternoon was 33.7 degrees, making it the latest very hot day of a year on record. Affected by an easterly airstream, there were a few light rain patches in the morning and sunny intervals during the day on October 20 and 21. With the moderation of the easterly airstream, the weather turned mainly fine and dry on October 22.      Meanwhile, an area of low pressure over the seas east of the Philippines intensified into a tropical depression on October 21 and was later named Trami. It tracked northwestwards towards Luzon and intensified gradually on October 22 and 23. After moving across Luzon, Trami moved generally westwards across the central and northern parts of the South China Sea on October 25 and 26. It made landfall over the central part of Vietnam on the morning of October 27 and progressively weakened into an area of low pressure over the inland areas the next day.       Under the influence of a dry northeast monsoon, it was mainly fine and dry on October 23. With the strengthening of the monsoon, it was slightly cooler the next morning and the temperatures at the Observatory dropped to a minimum of 22.0 degrees, the lowest of the month. The weather was mainly fine and very dry during the day with the relative humidity over most parts of the territory once falling to about 30 per cent. While it was still mainly fine during the day on October 25, the weather turned cloudy at night with the approach of Trami. Under the combined effect of the northeast monsoon and Trami, the weather of Hong Kong was mainly cloudy with a few showers on October 26. Strong winds were also recorded over many places of the territory on that day. With Trami departing from Hong Kong, local winds moderated gradually at night and the next morning. With a band of clouds covering the coast of Guangdong, the weather remained mainly cloudy with a few light rain patches in the morning from October 27 to 29. Affected by a dry northeast monsoon, the weather turned fine and dry on the last two days of the month.      Five tropical cyclones occurred over the South China Sea and the western North Pacific in October 2024.     Details of issuance and cancellation of various warnings/signals in the month are summarised in Table 1. Monthly meteorological figures and departures from normal for October are tabulated in Table 2.

     
    Ends/Monday, November 4, 2024Issued at HKT 15:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets Czech national baseball team  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai meets Czech national baseball team  
    2024-11-01

    On the afternoon of November 1, President Lai Ching-te met with the national baseball team of the Czech Republic. In remarks, President Lai thanked the Czech Republic for supporting Taiwan, and noted that the Czech national baseball team had come to Taiwan to take part in two exhibition games, not only for the sake of learning from one another, but also to further cultivate friendship between Taiwan and the Czech Republic. He also stated that the Czech Republic is an important democratic ally of Taiwan in Europe. He stated that the opening of the Czech Centre Taipei this past June shows that our two countries continue to enhance our partnership, and expressed confidence that even greater advances will be achieved in culture and many other fields moving forward.
    A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
    The World Baseball Softball Confederation Premier12 tournament is scheduled to start on November 10, with Group B opening round games to be played in Taiwan. I would like to thank Chinese Professional Baseball League Commissioner Tsai Chi-chang (蔡其昌) for inviting the Czech national baseball team to play two exhibition games in Taiwan, not only for the sake of learning from one another, but also to further cultivate friendship between Taiwan and the Czech Republic.
    As a long-time baseball fan, I am very pleased to meet with the Czech national baseball team here at the Presidential Office. Many team members are actually part-timers whose principal occupations are in such fields as firefighting, teaching, medicine, financial analysis, and real estate brokerage, to name just a few. Everyone’s passion for the sport has earned the team a ranking of number 15 in the world and placed them among the top three in Europe. Indeed, in last year’s World Baseball Classic (WBC), the team scored a come-from-behind win over China to take the Czech Republic’s first-ever victory in the WBC tournament. It was an admirable win and an exciting game, and Taiwanese fans were thrilled.
    The Czech Republic is an important democratic ally of Taiwan in Europe. Representative of the Czech Economic and Cultural Office David Steinke is here, so I would like to give special thanks to the Czech Republic for supporting Taiwan. Three years ago, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Czech Republic generously donated 30,000 vaccine doses to Taiwan, and when Hualien was hit by a severe earthquake earlier this year, the Czech Republic donated US$150,000 to support reconstruction efforts. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to express our deepest appreciation.
    The opening of the Czech Centre Taipei this past June signifies that our two countries continue to enhance our partnership, and I am confident that even greater advances will be achieved in culture and many other fields moving forward.
    Today is the Czech national baseball team’s second day in Taiwan, so I want to wish everyone a happy and fruitful visit, and I look forward to both teams playing their best in the exhibition games scheduled for tomorrow and the day after.
    Also in attendance was Czech Baseball Association President Petr Ditrich.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Asian Development Blog: Empowering Women with Disabilities: Key Actions for Inclusive Sports in the Pacific

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Inclusive sports can empower women with disabilities, and foster accessibility, social integration, and gender equality in the Pacific. Recent Paralympic milestones and policy examples illustrate the ongoing need for supportive infrastructures and greater representation to create equitable opportunities in sports.

    The importance of sport for women with disabilities cannot be overstated. It provides a platform for empowerment, fostering physical and mental well-being, and breaking societal barriers related to gender and disability. Participation in sports helps build confidence, resilience, and a sense of community.

    The Paralympic Games have been instrumental in setting standards for inclusion, showcasing the incredible talents and achievements of athletes with disabilities on a global stage. By promoting gender equality and providing equal opportunities, the Paralympics inspire change and highlight the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in sports.

    This year’s Paralympic Games in Paris marked a historic milestone with a record 1,983 women, or 45% of participants, across 549 medal events in 22 sports, making it the most gender-inclusive Paralympics ever. It was also a historic moment for the Pacific region, as it sent its largest contingent of athletes to the Paralympic Games.

    Thirteen athletes, comprising seven women and six men, represented six countries to compete in para-athletics and para-taekwondo: Fiji, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu. According to the Oceania Paralympic Committee, the Pacific athletes “not only represent their nations but also the aspirations of the entire Pacific region.”

    Among the remarkable athletes was Tongan discus thrower Meleane Vasitai Leaaepeni Falemaka, known as Vasi, who competed in the Paralympic Games for the first time. She is making her mark on the global stage as Tonga’s sole representative in the Paralympic Games where she competed in the women’s F37 discus throw event. Prior to the Paralympics, Vasi achieved her personal best throw at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix April 2024 held in Marrakech, Morocco.

    Women with disabilities outnumber men with disabilities in most Pacific countries, largely due to longer life expectancy and the increased likelihood of acquiring disabilities in old age. Persons with disabilities are overrepresented among the poorest of the poor across the region and face economic and social exclusion, violence, and accessibility challenges.

    Despite this, women with disabilities often do not get to make decisions that affect them. Evidence from 19 countries shows that only 2.3% of women with disabilities held a position as a legislator, senior official, or manager.  Only four out of 18 countries in the region had a “woman with disability” in parliament.

    Sports provide a powerful platform for empowering women with disabilities, fostering inclusion, and challenging societal barriers.

    The following actions are needed to increase the inclusion of women with disabilities in sports:

    Enhance policy and financing for gender and disability inclusive sport. Governments must enact robust legislation to eliminate accessibility barriers in multiple areas such as transport, housing, services, education, and sport. For example, Brazil passed the “Inclusion of People with Disabilities Act” before the Rio 2016 Paralympics that aimed to enhance the lives of the nearly 50 million people with impairments in Brazil. This Act increased the amount allocated to para-sports from the gross revenues of the federal lotteries, from around $26 million to $49 million per year.

    Promote accessibility and inclusivity of sport. The Paralympics have made strides in accommodating athletes with disabilities through modified rules and regular reassessments by classifiers. Classification varies across sports, for example, swimming has up to 10 eligible impairment types, and classifications depend on how much an impairment affects performance.

    In wheelchair basketball, players are rated from 1.0 to 4.5 based on their disability level with a maximum point total allowed per team to ensure competitive balance. This approach enhances fairness and integrity in competitions, creating a more equitable environment for all Paralympic athletes.

    Include women with disabilities in stakeholder consultations. This can be done through partnerships with local organizations and women’s groups where women with disabilities take on leadership and decision-making roles. Mapping stakeholders supporting people with disabilities is crucial in creating awareness among all stakeholders and policymakers in sport on the needs of women athletes with disabilities.

    Ensuring that sports facilities are accessible and safe for women with disabilities. Sports facilities must be designed within the lens of gender and disability. This not only promotes physical health but also enhances social integration and economic opportunities for people with disabilities.

    Governments and development partners’ financial commitments to accessibility improvements are essential. For instance, prior to the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing, the People’s Republic of China invested over $150 million to make 14,000 facilities accessible across the country. Similarly, for the Rio 2016 Games, nearly $1 million was allocated to enhance access to major tourist attractions and sports arenas.

    Promoting media representation to change perceptions. Media coverage can significantly change societal perceptions. For example, UK’s Channel 4 won various awards for its coverage of the London 2012 Paralympics, which included presenters with disabilities.

    The channel spent $1.2 million searching for, recruiting, training and developing the skills of media professionals to ensure that half of the on-screen talent during the Games consisted of persons with disabilities. The channel’s “Meet the Superhumans” commercial combined powerful imagery of athletes with their extraordinary stories creating a compelling narrative that resonated widely and likely changed attitudes towards Paralympic sports.

    Encouraging women with disabilities to take up sports. Sport enables women with disabilities to develop social skills and independence. Families and carers can help foster the love for sport by initiating play and developing interest, which can also serve as a shared activity. Sport can also be a transformative tool for women to demonstrate their abilities, which can help reduce the longstanding negative perceptions and gender stereotypes associated with women with disabilities.

    By addressing these issues, we can create an environment where athletes like Vasi can thrive, inspiring future generations and contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society in the Pacific.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Global forum celebrates Hehe Culture in historic city

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The 2024 Global Forum on Hehe Culture is held in Taizhou, eastern China’s Zhejiang province, on Nov. 2, 2024. [Photo/China.org.cn]
    The 2024 Global Forum on Hehe Culture convened Saturday in Taizhou, an eastern Chinese city in Zhejiang province, where this philosophy originated.
    The forum, themed “Hehe Culture and New Model for Human Progress,” brought together participants from home and abroad, including politicians, think tank experts, and youth leaders.
    The ancient Chinese concept of Hehe Culture represents dual meanings of harmony: The first “He” symbolizes peace and balance, while the second represents unity and cooperation, according to “Keywords to Understand Hehe Culture,” a book released at a previous session of the Global Forum on Hehe Culture.
    Zhu Yongxin, vice chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and executive vice chairperson of the Central Committee of the China Association for Promoting Democracy, delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the forum.
    In his address, Zhu emphasized the importance of promoting Chinese culture while maintaining a people-centered approach. He called for strengthening cultural confidence, deepening cultural exchanges and promoting the progress of civilizations. He also advocated adhering to the philosophy of harmony and unity, and promoting the building of a global community of shared future.
    Wang Wenxu, a member of the Standing Committee of the Zhejiang Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), said in a speech that while Hehe Culture originates in China, it belongs to the world. Amid the ongoing transformations unseen in a century, Hehe should serve as an approach to addressing issues such as development imbalances, governance challenges, and geopolitical conflicts.
    “We must look to Hehe as a philosophy facilitating inclusive cultural exchange, a way of pursuing mutual benefits for all countries and parties, and a solution to global security and governance challenges,” he highlighted.
    Essam Sharaf, former prime minister of Egypt and winner of the inaugural Orchid Awards, delivered a speech at the forum. He expounded on the concept of a global community of shared future, saying that “[it] means all countries have equal sovereignty – none can intervene in the internal affairs of others; that countries should jointly manage global affairs democratically, rather than through the dictates of the most powerful states; that countries should engage in ‘win-win cooperation’ to ‘build a world of common prosperity.’”
    “Hehe Culture can play an important role in guiding the efforts aiming at building a community of a shared future where everyone can enjoy a prosperous future,” he added.
    Yu Tao, vice president of China International Communications Group (CICG), also shared his insights in a speech. He said Hehe Culture is one of the valuable assets of Chinese wisdom and a shared achievement of global civilization. With its enduring relevance, Hehe Culture has gained renewed vitality. It fosters strength for safeguarding peace and stability, advancing cooperation and promoting mutual learning among civilizations.
    “Looking to the future, we should advocate peaceful coexistence to develop a new global security perspective grounded in mutual respect and dialogue, promote win-win cooperation to build open, inclusive, and universally beneficial dynamics for global development, and encourage diversity and harmony to create a vibrant, mutually enriching global civilization,” Yu said.
    Li Yueqi, secretary of the CPC Taizhou Municipal Committee, echoed the idea that Hehe Culture is a brilliant gem within the tapestry of traditional Chinese culture. It is woven into the daily lives of Taizhou people and permeates all aspects of the city’s development, serving as an important foundation of its cultural identity.
    In his speech, Li expressed hope that the forum would foster deeper and broader cooperation and exchange regarding Hehe Culture.
    The event featured five parallel sessions that addressed sister city partnerships, Sinology studies, youth programs, academic research, and family traditions.
    Forum organizers named new cultural ambassadors and launched an initiative to strengthen ties among sister cities. Officials also unveiled a new collection of poems titled “Cold Hill’s Poetry.”
    In addition, participants toured local historic sites showcasing Hehe Culture heritage.
    The forum, established in 2021, has emerged as a significant platform for international cultural dialogue.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s commerce minister urges active role from France in reaching EV trade solution

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao has called on France, as a key European Union (EU) member, to play an active role in pushing the European Commission to show sincerity and meet the Chinese side halfway to secure a solution concerning the EU’s anti-subsidy probe into Chinese electric vehicles (EVs).

    Wang made the remarks during a meeting with French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and French Nationals Abroad, attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Sophie Primas, in Shanghai on Sunday, according to the Ministry of Commerce. Wang and Primas met ahead of the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE), which starts this week.

    The EU’s anti-subsidy probe into China-made EVs has severely hindered cooperation between EU and Chinese auto industries, currently a critical concern for industries on both sides, Wang said, noting that technical teams from China and the EU are presently engaged in a second round of consultations.

    Wang reiterated China’s commitment to addressing China-EU trade friction through dialogue and consultation — based on respect for facts and compliance with WTO rules.

    Wang said that unlike the EU’s anti-subsidy probe initiated without industry applications, China’s trade remedy investigations targeting certain EU goods, such as brandy, pork and dairy products, were launched at the request of domestic industries in full compliance with WTO rules and Chinese laws and regulations.

    He stressed that China would continue to handle these investigations in accordance with laws and regulations, safeguard the legal rights of enterprises from EU member states, including France, and base its rulings on evidence and facts.

    China is ready to work with the European Commission to seek a proper solution in this respect, Wang added.

    Noting that this year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of China-France diplomatic relations, with France featuring as a guest country of honor at the CIIE again, Wang said that over 100 French companies are set to participate in the expo this year — the highest number among EU countries, highlighting French companies’ strong interest in the Chinese market.

    Primas affirmed France’s firm commitment to deepening economic and trade relations with China and expressed her pleasure at France’s role as a guest country of honor at the expo again this year.

    With agricultural and food products being vital elements of France’s trade with China, she conveyed France’s significant concern over China’s investigations aimed at EU products, including brandy.

    France does not wish to see further escalation of current EU-China trade tensions and hopes both sides will resolve trade disputes through consultation, Primas said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Shenzhou-18 astronauts return to Earth

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

    Another awe-inspiring moment in space exploration! China’s Shenzhou-18 crew has safely returned, touching down just hours ago. Join Xinhua’s on-site correspondent for an unforgettable night as the astronaut trio comes home and a new chapter in space exploration begins.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK a unique gateway: SJ

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Justice Paul Lam

    The Hong Kong Legal Week is an annual flagship event of the Department of Justice. Since its inception in 2019, the Hong Kong Legal Week has served as a dynamic forum where legal professionals, scholars, judges and experts come together to discuss critical legal issues that resonate not only within Hong Kong but (also) throughout the wider Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

    The theme of this year is “Hong Kong Common Law System: World-Class Springboard to China & Beyond”. It emphasises Hong Kong’s unique role as a gateway between China, the Asia Pacific and the world. Under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction within China. Our strong legal foundation, coupled with our close ties with and support from the Mainland, positions us as a critical hub for legal and economic collaboration across the region and beyond.

    Private law summit

    We begin this week with today’s Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit 2024. Building on the success of the inaugural summit in 2022, the Department of Justice once again partners with the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT) to organise this summit under the theme “Springboard to Opportunities: Utilising International Private Law & Technology to Facilitate Access to Credit, Investment, & Sustainable Development in the Asia-Pacific Region”.

    The Asia-Pacific region is home to enormous economic potential and encompasses a diverse array of legal systems. While this diversity enriches our legal and cultural landscape, it also introduces complexities and uncertainties for businesses navigating cross-border transactions. To unlock the region’s full economic potential and ensure long-term sustainable growth, harmonisation and modernisation of private law across the region is essential.

    Recognising this need, today’s summit gathers leading legal minds from across the Asia Pacific, together with experts from UNIDROIT, to explore how the unification and co-ordination of various areas of private law can support economic growth and facilitate smoother cross-border interactions throughout the region. We will be hearing from them on how international private law and emerging technologies can unlock new opportunities for sustainable economic growth across the region, and how Hong Kong may contribute in this regard.

    Collaboration with UNIDROIT

    In the past few years, the Department of Justice has closely collaborated with UNIDROIT to promote the development, implementation, and deeper understanding of private international law and international commercial law across the Asia-Pacific region.

    In addition to these collaborative efforts, we are grateful for UNIDROIT’s strong support to the Department of Justice’s secondment programme, offering Hong Kong’s legal professionals from both the public and private sectors the valuable opportunity to work at the UNIDROIT Secretariat in Rome. This experience not only deepens their expertise in international legal issues, but also bolsters Hong Kong’s capacity in foreign-related legal matters.

    I am very pleased to note that one of our former secondees will be moderating a panel later this morning, which testifies to the success of the secondment programme.

    Capacity building

    The secondment programme is one of the Department of Justice’s many policy initiatives providing professional development opportunities to our legal talents. To further strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a leading international legal and dispute resolution services centre in the Asia-Pacific region, the Department of Justice places great importance on nurturing legal talents with a global perspective and proficiency in foreign-related legal affairs. We are committed to establishing Hong Kong as a leading centre for capacity building in international law.

    As outlined in our Chief Executive’s 2023 and 2024 Policy Address, the Department of Justice is setting up the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy. The academy will regularly organise practical training courses, seminars, international exchange programmes and more to promote exchanges among talent in regions along the Belt & Road. It will also provide training for talent in the practice of foreign-related legal affairs for the country, and nurture legal talent conversant with international law, common law, civil law and the country’s legal system.

    A dedicated office and an expert committee have already been set up to facilitate the establishment of the academy. We are grateful to have Prof Tirado (International Institute for the Unification of Private Law Secretary-General) as a member of the expert committee, and I am pleased to see many of our committee members participating in today’s summit.

    To officially mark this new initiative, I am excited to announce that the launch ceremony for the academy will take place on the final day of the Hong Kong Legal Week. I warmly invite all of you to join us for this significant occasion.

    Other events

    I also warmly welcome you to participate in an array of other events this week. Tomorrow, we will have the Second Legal Forum on Interconnectivity & Development co-organised with the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. At the legal forum, we are very pleased to have the General Counsel of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank deliver a keynote address on promoting good governance and high-quality development under international law. Legal experts will also share their insights on Hong Kong’s role in China’s institutional opening up, and rule of law as a risk management mechanism to safeguard sustainable development.

    On Wednesday, we will host events under the theme “Beyond Litigation: The Vibrant Landscape of Alternative Dispute Resolution of Hong Kong”. The day will explore three topical issues – the role of mediation in promoting a culture of mutual respect, harmony and inclusiveness, use of artificial intelligence in alternative dispute resolution, as well as the resolution of sports disputes. There will also be the 2024 Hong Kong Mediation Lecture in the evening, exploring the unique challenges and opportunities involved in the use of mediation in deals relating to natural resources.

    Thursday’s programme will focus on strengthening the rule of law in the Greater Bay Area. We will hear from experts on the proof of Hong Kong law and foreign law in the Mainland, the arrangement on mutual legal assistance in civil and commercial matters between the Mainland and Hong Kong, as well as legal services and juridical relations to facilitate and protect trade and social interactions between the Mainland and Hong Kong. The day will also feature a mock mediation session led by mediators from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, and a discussion on the Greater Bay Area mediation platform.

    On Friday, apart from the launching ceremony of the academy in the afternoon that I have just mentioned, we will explore how the rule of law in Hong Kong, together with different components of Hong Kong’s legal and judicial system, are essential to provide the best business environment from the perspectives of our legal services profession and our enterprises, and how our legal professionals can play an important role along the Belt & Road.

    Alongside this week’s discussions, we are also featuring a special exhibition on the achievements in the construction of the rule of law of the People’s Republic of China in the modern era, co-organised by the Ministry of Justice of China and the Department of Justice, in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of People’s Republic of China. The exhibition highlights key milestones in China’s legal evolution, both domestically and in foreign-related areas, over the past 75 years.

    Conclusion

    Ladies and gentlemen, as we look ahead to the discussions that will follow, I hope today’s summit will inspire all of us to explore new ideas and opportunities. Let’s make the most of this moment to engage in meaningful exchanges and drive forward the future of international law.

    On this note, I wish today’s summit every success and extend my sincere appreciation to all of you for joining us, whether online or in person.

    Secretary for Justice Paul Lam gave these remarks at the Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit 2024, part of Hong Kong Legal Week 2024, on November 4.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Asian Impact Webinar: Asian Development Outlook September 2024 Launch

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Video | 04 November 2024

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    Developing Asia’s outlook remains solid, driven by strong domestic demand and continued recovery in exports. But risks remain, including a possible rise in protectionism that could occur depending on the outcome of the United States presidential election, worsening geopolitical tensions, a fragile PRC property market, and adverse weather conditions. Asian Development Outlook September 2024 sheds light on these.

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    Developing Asia’s outlook remains solid, driven by strong domestic demand and continued recovery in exports. But risks remain, including a possible rise in protectionism that could occur depending on the outcome of the United States presidential election, worsening geopolitical tensions, a fragile PRC property market, and adverse weather conditions. Asian Development Outlook September 2024 sheds light on these.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Mainland college students invited to visit Taiwan

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Taiwan-based Ma Ying-jeou Culture and Education Foundation announced Monday that it plans to invite 40 faculty members and students from seven mainland universities to visit the island, following a successful visit of mainland college students in 2023.
    The visit is scheduled to take place from Nov. 27 for nine days and eight nights, said Hsiao Hsu-tsen, executive director of the foundation, at a press conference, adding that the foundation will submit applications to relevant authorities and hopes for swift approval to facilitate the visit.
    The mainland students and teachers will be from Peking University, Tsinghua University, Fudan University, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhejiang University, Fujian Normal University and Beijing Sport University. The students will include Olympic champions, table tennis gold medalist Ma Long from Beijing Sport University, and shooting gold medalist Yang Qian from Tsinghua University, Hsiao said.
    They will visit six universities in Taiwan, including Taiwan University, Tsing Hua University in Hsinchu, Chengchi University, Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Chinese Culture University in Taiwan, and Chang Gung University, as well as the Taipei Municipal Zhongshan Girls High School, he said.
    The itinerary will also include visits to scenic spots such as Sun Moon Lake so that mainland students will have an in-depth understanding of Taiwan’s history and natural beauty. Additionally, the foundation will arrange baseball experience activities, allowing mainland students to engage firsthand with Taiwan’s popular baseball culture.
    This is the second such visit planned by the foundation. In 2023, faculty members and students from five mainland universities were warmly received across Taiwan, positively impacting cross-Strait relations.
    In 2023 and 2024, Ma Ying-jeou, former chairman of the Chinese Kuomintang, also led youth groups from Taiwan on visits to the mainland.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese PLA Support Base in Djibouti holds training with Djiboutian army

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      The Chinese PLA support base in Djibouti carries out a three-day joint training of “Cooperation-2024.10. FAD” with the Djiboutian army from October 26th to 28th, 2024. The training, themed on “joint anti-terrorism military operation”, consisted of land phase and sea phase, and involved more than 300 soldiers, five boats, and 40 armored vehicles, artilleries, logistic vehicles. Both sides’ participants conducted such training subjects as fire strike, armed escort, and counter-piracy. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Sun Ye, Mi Peng, Han Liang, Meng Xinde, Wu Shihong, Zhou Weiyue, Zhu Ruifeng)

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  • MIL-OSI China: Air-defense missiles tear through the sky

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      A ground-based air defense system attached to an air-defense detachment of a brigade under the Chinese PLA 81st Group Army launches a missile against “enemy” target during a live-fire training exercise aiming to enhance the troops’ rapid reconnaissance and precise strike capabilities on September 1st, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Feng Hao)

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Soldiers in reconnaissance and infiltration training

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      Soldiers assigned to a reconnaissance detachment of an army brigade under the Chinese PLA Eastern Theater Command cover each other in firing position while marching in the jungle during a reconnaissance and infiltration training exercise on August 29, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Xiao Zubin)

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese PLA Support Base in Djibouti Holds Training with Djiboutian Military

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      By Shao Bo

      BEIJING, Nov. 4 — The Chinese PLA Support Base in Djibouti carried out a three-day joint training “Cooperation-2024.10. FAD” with the Djiboutian military from October 26th to 28th, 2024.

      Themed on “joint anti-terrorism military operations”, the joint training consisted of land phase and sea phase and focused on such subjects as fire strike, armed escort, and counter-piracy.

      The joint training involved more than 300 soldiers, five boats, and 40 armored vehicles, artilleries, logistic support vehicles.

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    MIL OSI China News –