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Category: COVID-19 Vaccine

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: In the last ten years since the government headed by PM Narendra Modi took over and particularly post-Covid, Indian systems of Medicine have earned global recognition

    Source: Government of India (2)

    In the last ten years since the government headed by PM Narendra Modi took over and particularly post-Covid, Indian systems of Medicine have earned global recognition

    India Leads Global Revival of Unani Medicine, Blending Tradition with Modern Science: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    It was PM Modi who for the first time set up a separate Ministry for AYUSH and proposed International Day of Yoga

    Integrative Healthcare Takes Centre Stage as India Advances Medical Innovation with AI and Genomics in Unani Medicine, says the Minister

    India Emerges as a Hub for Unani Medicine Studies, Driving Academic and Medical Tourism Worldwide: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 7:59PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh said today that in the last ten years since the government headed by PM Narendra Modi took over and particularly post-Covid, Indian systems of Medicine have earned global recognition. He recalled, it was PM Modi who for the first time set up a separate Ministry for AYUSH and proposed International Day of Yoga.

    The Minister reaffirmed the Modi Govt’s commitment to reviving and globalizing Unani medicine, emphasizing its crucial role in integrative healthcare solutions.

    Speaking on the occasion of Unani Day 2025 and the International Conference on “Innovations in Unani Medicine for Integrative Health Solutions – A Way Forward,”the Minister highlighted how India’s traditional medical systems are gaining renewed global recognition, particularly in the post-2014 era.

    “India possesses a vast treasure of traditional medical knowledge, which is not only our legacy but also our strength. We are ensuring that this rich legacy is preserved, modernized, and globally recognized through technology-driven innovations,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    The Minister underscored that the AYUSH sector has witnessed unprecedented growth, with the manufacturing value of AYUSH-based medicines and products soaring from $3 billion in 2014 to $24 billion today, an eightfold increase. This remarkable expansion, he said, reflects India’s leadership in holistic healthcare.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing holistic medicine into the mainstream through key policy reforms and international initiatives. He highlighted that the 2017 National Health Policy introduced the concept of integrated healthcare, combining Unani and Ayurveda with allopathy for a more comprehensive approach to treatment and wellness.

    “If Prime Minister Modi had not emphasized the importance of AYUSH, we would not have seen such rapid growth in the sector. Today, traditional medicine is not just being revived but is also shaping the future of healthcare worldwide,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    The Minister noted that India’s leadership in preventive healthcare gained further prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, when people across the world turned to Unani, Ayurveda, and naturopathy for immunity-boosting solutions.

    “During the pandemic, doctors and experts from across the world reached out to us for Unani and Ayurvedic formulations to boost immunity. This global recognition reinforces our responsibility to further develop and promote our traditional medical systems,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also emphasized India’s role as a pioneer in modern medical innovations, recalling how the country developed the first DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine and emerged as a global hub for preventive healthcare solutions.

    India’s next big leap in healthcare lies in integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific advancements, opined the Minister. He noted that Unani and other traditional medicine systems are being strengthened through technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Gene Therapy.

    “We are now in an era where traditional knowledge is being combined with advanced scientific techniques. Whether it is AI-driven diagnostics, genome-based therapies, or evidence-backed Unani treatments, India is leading the way in medical innovation,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    Citing a recent medical breakthrough in gene therapy for Haemophilia, successfully conducted in India, Dr. Jitendra Singh asserted that the future of medicine lies in the fusion of traditional and modern approaches.

    The Minister also highlighted India’s emergence as a leading destination for medical and academic tourism. He pointed out that postgraduate courses in Unani medicine are now being offered in Hyderabad and Srinagar, making India an academic hub for holistic medicine.

    “Academic tourism is a new frontier for India. Students and researchers from across the world are now coming here to study Unani medicine. This will further strengthen India’s position as a global center for traditional medical education,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

    In his concluding remarks, the Minister called for a global effort to integrate Unani medicine into mainstream healthcare systems.“A truly ‘Viksit Bharat’ must be built on the foundation of a healthy India. By combining our ancient knowledge with modern scientific advancements, we can provide revolutionary healthcare solutions to the world,”.

    The International Conference on Unani Medicine will serve as a platform for global experts, researchers, and policymakers to discuss how digital advancements, scientific research, and policy reforms can drive the next wave of growth in Unani and integrative healthcare.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today inaugurated the 4-day International Conference on Governance dedicated to the theme “Next Generation Administrative Reforms – Reaching the Last Mile” organised jointly by the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) and Department of Administrative Reforms Govt. of India.

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh  today inaugurated the 4-day International Conference on Governance dedicated to the theme  “Next Generation Administrative Reforms – Reaching the Last Mile” organised jointly by the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) and Department of Administrative Reforms Govt. of India.

    An occasion of prestige for India since a conference of this nature is being hosted for the first time in India with participation of 55 countries from across the globe.

    Minister says, Not only India but the world today is discussing Viksit bharat and claimed that the transformative journey of India’s citizen-centric governance since May 26, 2014, the day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assumed office

    From Digital Inclusion to Space Missions Dr. Jitendra Singh highlights Governance Excellence at IIAS-DARPG Conference 2025

    India for the 1st time hosts IIAS-DARPG Conference 2025: A Landmark Event in Public Administration and Governance

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Unveils a Book titled “Viksit Bharat @2047- Governance transformed”

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 7:17PM by PIB Delhi

     Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh  today inaugurated the 4-day International Conference on Governance dedicated to the theme  “Next Generation Administrative Reforms – Reaching the Last Mile” organised jointly by the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) and Department of Administrative Reforms Govt of India.

    The event is an occasion of prestige for India since a conference of this nature is being hosted for the first time in India with participation of nearly 55 countries from across the globe.

    Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted the significance of the conference as a platform to explore innovations in public administration, governance, and policymaking. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Singh emphasized the theme of the conference: “Next Generation Administrative Reforms – Reaching the Last Mile.”

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also released a Book on “Viksit Bharat @ 2047” themed Governance Transformed.

    The Minister said, not only India but the world today is discussing “Viksit Bharat” and claimed that  the transformative journey of India’s citizen-centric governance since May 26, 2014, the day when Narendra Modi had assumed office as the Prime Minister of India. He highlighted India’s economic transformation, from being part of the ‘Fragile Five’ to a member of the ‘First Five,’ showcasing a remarkable shift driven by reforms in public administration and governance. Dr. Jitendra Singh noted India’s impressive rise in the Global Innovation Index, moving from 81st to 39th place—a leap he described as “quantum.”

    The minister further underscored key indicators of the success of India’s next-generation administrative reforms, citing the significant expansion of broadband connectivity, which now covers almost 80% of the population. He pointed to the Swamitva Mission, which enables citizens to map their land through drones and satellites, reducing dependence on revenue officials. These reforms, he stated, have translated into tangible improvements in the ease of living for citizens.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also lauded the government’s push towards financial inclusion, citing the rise of digital transactions and direct benefit transfers as key milestones. With 46% of the total digital transactions occurring in India, he mentioned that over 16.8 billion transactions were processed in just one month of October 2024, highlighting the positive socio-economic impact of these reforms.

    The Minister praised initiatives under the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), including CPGRAMS, one of the best grievance redressal systems in the world. He also pointed to the launch of Right to Information 2.0, a new app enabling citizens to access information with a single click, and Mission Karmayogi, a capacity-building initiative for civil servants.

    In line with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,” Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to the abolition of interviews for Group C and D employees, emphasizing democratizing governance and providing equal opportunities for all.

    Highlighting India’s technological advancements in governance, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that India is among the first countries to establish a National Quantum Mission and Open Network Digital Commerce. He also highlighted India’s space achievements, including the Chandrayaan Mission, which made India the first country to reach the Moon’s South Pole, and the Aditya L1 Mission, which has made India one of only three nations to have a dedicated mission.

    The Minister also celebrated India’s breakthroughs in healthcare, including the first indigenous DNA vaccine and India’s first HPV vaccine to combat cervical cancer. He further highlighted the indigenous development of the antibiotic Nafithromycin and the first successful gene therapy trial for hemophilia.

     Additionally, he shared that the Department of Atomic Energy installed a Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant at the Kumbh Mela, addressing the daily load of 1 million liters of faecal sludge

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also emphasized India’s commitment to global climate goals under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.

    The IIAS-DARPG India Conference 2025 provides an invaluable platform for global scholars, policymakers, administrators, and academics to exchange knowledge and discuss the role of governance, technology, and public administration reforms in improving citizen services and public service delivery.

    The conference includes interactive sessions and plenaries, offering valuable insights and collaborative solutions for enhancing governance efficiency worldwide.

    The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Mr. Ra’ed Mohammed BenShams, President of IIAS, and Mr. Sofiane Sahraoui, DG IIAS. Other notable attendees included Secretary DARPG V. Shrinivas, DG IIPA S.N. Tripathi and Additional Secretary DARPG Sh. Puneet Yadav.

    This conference serves as a crucial global platform for discussing the future of public administration, governance reforms, and the role of technology in shaping the governance landscape.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Implementation of forest maps and protection of private property in Greece – E-002804/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission ensures, within the remit of its competence, the respect of fundamental rights enshrined in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (the Charter), including the right to property[1].

    According to its Article 51(1) the provisions of the Charter are addressed to Member States only when they are implementing EU law.

    In this case, it is for Member States, including their judicial authorities, to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected in accordance with their national law and international human rights obligations.

    The Commission is not responsible for monitoring the application of national laws for matters, such as property rights, which do not fall within EU competence.

    Therefore, the Commission has not issued and does not plan to issue any guidelines to resolve environmental protection conflicts with property rights .

    It is up to the Member States to identify and use EU co-financing, provided that the eligibility and selection criteria of any relevant EU programmes or funding tools are fulfilled. Cohesion Policy[2], through projects co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund[3], provides tools that can contribute to addressing challenges related to forest maps and property management in Greece[4].

    In line with this, Greece’s Recovery and Resilience Plan[5] includes a reform to finalise the national cadastre, establishing an efficient land registry system and providing legal certainty for property rights (measure 16986). By mid-2025, the cadastral mapping is expected to be completed, with all property rights available for public display.

    • [1] Article17 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/policy/what/investment-policy_en
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/erdf_en
    • [4] For instance, the project Development of an Integrated Information System for the Central Geospatial Infrastructure (ERDF co-financing: EUR 0.6 million) focuses on creating a comprehensive geospatial information system to manage grazing lands, immovable property, and agricultural registers, supporting improved land and forest management. Similarly, the project Digitization of the Historic Archive of Aerial Photographs (ERDF co-financing: EUR 3.3 million) involves preserving and digitizing aerial photographs to create a Geographic Information System (GIS), which will contribute to documenting forest and land boundaries, improving transparency, and supporting sustainable land management efforts.
    • [5] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/greeces-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wisconsin Universities Share Dire Consequences of Illegal Funding Cuts for Lifesaving Research

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) is highlighting the dire consequences for lifesaving research at Wisconsin’s Universities after President Donald Trump and Elon Musk announced that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will be making significant, illegal cuts to critical funding used to discover medical breakthroughs. The NIH announced that it is arbitrarily capping indirect cost rates at 15%, which will slash funding that helps research institutions, like the University of Wisconsin, conduct research, operate their facilities and labs, pay staff, and buy equipment needed for groundbreaking work to find cures for diseases and treatments for patients.

    “Cutting funding for lifesaving cures for diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and cancer will hurt Wisconsin families. Period. These illegal cuts will not only mean fewer treatment options for Americans down the road, but it also will cost Wisconsinites their jobs across our state,” said Senator Baldwin. “Elon Musk and Donald Trump are stripping away investments that help Wisconsin families to make room for their tax cut for billionaires and the biggest corporations. I’m standing up for Wisconsin and doing everything I can to push back on this illegal funding cut that will cost American lives and livelihoods.”

    “For decades, the federal government and research universities have had a deep and extremely successful partnership to produce important research for the good of the nation.?UW–Madison has long been a research powerhouse, and this effort is central to our purpose. Federal funding has contributed to a wide variety of critical innovations and discoveries at UW–Madison, from weather satellites that save lives during natural disasters to the ‘UW Solution’ that advanced the practice of organ transplantation by extending the viability of human organs,” said the University of Wisconsin-Madison. “Today, campus researchers are leading a major national NIH grant to unlock the mysteries surrounding Alzheimer’s disease in a quest for better treatments, and ultimately, a cure. Work done here saves lives with innovations like cell therapies to treat cancer and heart attacks, improvements in medical imaging, and new treatments for diabetes. Our research enterprise is at the heart of the Wisconsin Idea, our commitment to innovating for the public good and doing work that makes a difference for Wisconsin and the world.”

    “As we continue to assess the situation and its potential impact on our university, we recognize the significant role of NIH-funded research at UW-Milwaukee, totaling $7.9 million from 2019 to 2027. These projects support critical research that enhance quality of life by improving physical and mental health interventions, disease prevention strategies and public health policies. Examples of these projects include studies on genetic mutations linked to birth defects in children, the neuroscience of aging and the effects of wheelchair use on shoulder pain,” said University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Chancellor Mark Mone.

    Indirect costs are necessary expenses for universities that support research, including paying key support staff, maintaining equipment, and operating labs, among other activities. Slashing this funding will shift billions of dollars in burdens to states and their taxpayers, who cannot afford to pay the difference. According to a lawsuit filed by 22 states including Wisconsin to block the Trump Administrative directive, this cut to NIH funding at UW-Madison would eliminate approximately $65 million in funding – which would mean layoffs and immediately halting research programs including potentially terminating clinical trials. UW-Madison could be forced to not only stop admitting new patients to some clinical trials, but to scale back ongoing clinical trials. This means slower and fewer treatments for adult and pediatric cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, degenerative neurologic diseases, and more. A federal judge on Monday temporarily blocked the NIH funding cuts from going into effect, issuing a temporary restraining order, and setting a hearing for February 21.

    Implementing the Trump Administration’s 15% cap on indirect costs would mean an immediate loss of billions of dollars that have already been committed at research institutions across the country to employ tens of thousands of researchers and other workers. It would mean an immediate halt of life-saving health research and cutting-edge biomedical innovations that produce vaccines and cures for diseases like cancer and addiction. It would have a ripple effect across the private sector as it disrupts partnerships with private institutions, causing some of them to go bankrupt. Business communities, mayors, governors, and Chambers of Commerce across the country have all expressed concerns about the devastating impact imposing this illegal, arbitrary policy would have on local and state economies.

    Research institutions in Wisconsin, including the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Medical College of Wisconsin, Marquette University, University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, and Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, among other University of Wisconsin System schools, will be impacted by these funding cuts.

    As Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Related Agencies, Senator Baldwin is responsible for writing the bill that funds the NIH, which explicitly prohibits NIH from taking this arbitrary action.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What is Sudan virus and how similar is it to Ebola?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Head, Senior Research Fellow in Global Health, University of Southampton

    The Ugandan government and the World Health Organization recently confirmed an outbreak of Sudan virus disease. The index (first-known) case of this outbreak is thought to be a 32-year-old male nurse from a hospital in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

    The WHO reported two main clusters, related to the patient’s family and a hospital cluster. At the time of writing, the index case is the sole recorded death. The second case was the patient’s wife, and as of February 11, there were nine confirmed cases.

    Outbreaks of this virus are relatively rare. This new outbreak is the ninth to have been recorded since 1976 when the virus was first identified and – as was practice at the time – named after the location where this first outbreak took place, southern Sudan.

    A 2022 Sudan virus outbreak also in Uganda resulted in 164 cases and 77 deaths (a fatality rate of 47%). There are no treatments or vaccines against the Sudan virus.

    Sudan virus disease is essentially a disease very similar to Ebola. The Ebola virus has caused several high-profile outbreaks. The west Africa 2014-16 outbreak was the largest with 28,600 cases and 11,325 deaths.

    The Sudan and Ebola viruses both come from the orthoebolavirus family, but they have different proteins and genetic components, so the immune response to each virus is different. As such, it’s thought that the Ebola vaccines will not be effective against the Sudan virus.

    For the current Sudan virus outbreak, there are efforts to deploy vaccine candidates and also monoclonal antibody medicines. These medicines create antibodies that aim to stop the virus from replicating.

    In 2022, the WHO recommended two monoclonal antibodies for use against Ebola. There is enthusiasm for similar research related to treatments for the Sudan virus.

    A phase 1 vaccine trial, the earliest phase of testing in humans, is underway.

    The similarities in structure between these two types of orthoebolavirus mean that the symptoms in patients are similar. The illness for both viruses may typically begin with fever, aches and fatigue with potential progression onto diarrhoea, vomiting and unexplained bleeding.

    Laboratory testing is needed to differentiate between the diseases, though the urgent need for isolation remains.

    Early supportive treatment has been shown to reduce mortality rates of Sudan and Ebola virus disease, giving the patient time for their body to recover. This usually involves replacing fluids and treating pain, fever and other possible infections, such as malaria.

    The reporting of the 2022 Sudan virus disease outbreak described how patients would first visit care facilities that were outside of the mainstream health service. There were many new infections across late August 2022 from within private health facilities that drove transmission early on in the outbreak. This suggested a low level of infection prevention and control, and quite possibly a lack of equipment and good practice to contain serious infections.

    When cases were confirmed, most known contacts who developed symptoms were referred to specialist units for testing and hospital care. These referrals typically happened in October, and the outbreak was declared over by the end of November 2022. Although we lack vital tools such as effective vaccines and drugs, contact tracing and appropriate infection control can contain serious outbreaks such as these.

    Climate change driving distribution

    Climate change will have an effect on the geographical distribution of new and emerging infections, such as Ebola and Sudan virus disease and the Crimean-Congo virus. Mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria and yellow fever, will find new habitats while dengue and West Nile virus are already becoming more common in Europe and North America.

    International cooperation for addressing global health threats is vital. However, these efforts will be hindered by the volatility and lack of coherence from key stakeholders such as the US government. The world faces uncertain times, and these are ideal circumstances for the Sudan virus and other infectious diseases to thrive.

    Michael Head has previously received funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Research England and the UK Department for International Development, and currently receives funding from the UK Medical Research Foundation.

    – ref. What is Sudan virus and how similar is it to Ebola? – https://theconversation.com/what-is-sudan-virus-and-how-similar-is-it-to-ebola-249312

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Angola vaccinates over 1 million people as it bolsters cholera outbreak control efforts

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    LUANDA, Angola, February 11, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Antonio Morais, from Paraíso neighborhood in Cacuaco, one of Luanda’s nine municipalities, has witnessed friends and neighbours succumb to cholera. So, when Morais heard about an oral cholera vaccination campaign as part of Angola’s efforts to step up outbreak control, he was first in line to receive a vaccine. “I feel relieved, as I know that vaccines save lives,” he says.

    More than 1 million people have been vaccinated in the three hardest-hit provinces in a five-day campaign to complement the ongoing public health measures to halt the spread of the infectious disease.

    Health facilities and other public places such as markets, churches and schools were used as vaccination posts, while mobile teams visited communities to ensure widespread reach during the 3–7 February campaign. At least 99.5% of the targeted population received the vaccine in a drive led by the Ministry of Health, with support from World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and World Bank.

    Around 2000 teams were deployed, including health professionals and community volunteers, under the supervision of around 500 coordinators. In total, more than 6400 staff were involved in the operation, to ensure wide coverage and the success of the campaign. As they conducted vaccinations, health workers provided information on preventive measures, such good hygiene practices and promoted access to safe drinking water, which are fundamental to preventing new cases.  

    Together with key partners such as UNICEF, World Bank, Red Cross, and the private sector, WHO supported the Government in procuring 978 000 vaccine doses through the International Coordinating Group for Vaccine Provision, microplanning, ensuring efficient resource allocation and vaccination coverage. The joint efforts also supported training almost 2000 vaccinators to enhance their capacity to administer the vaccine safely and effectively and provided supportive supervision during the campaign.

    “In this fight against cholera, we acknowledge the role of our development partners and thank them for their unwavering cooperation and support, including WHO and other partners and friends, who have been strong allies in the fight to control this disease,” says Minister of Health Dr Silvia Lutucuta.

    Oral cholera vaccines are an additional tool for cholera control, complementing others such as use of safe water, good hygiene, surveillance, and early treatment. As of 11 February 2025, 3047 cases and 180 deaths had been reported in eight provinces, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 3.4%. During cholera outbreaks, a CFR lower than 1% is commonly considered as acceptable threshold.

    “WHO congratulates the government leadership and reiterates its commitment to continue supporting Angola in its response to the cholera outbreak,” says Dr Zabulon Yoti, WHO Representative in Angola. “We will continue to collaborate with other UN agencies and partners, including the private sector, to support the government in developing sustainable initiatives that guarantee prevention, response, and protection of the population against cholera and other preventable diseases.”

    WHO and key partners have also supported other aspects of the cholera response in Angola, facilitating the drafting of a National Cholera Response Plan, procuring medical supplies, strengthening the capacity of health professionals, distributing water treatment solutions, implementing basic sanitation measures and community mobilization.

    Back in Paraíso, Morais has encouraged everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated. “With this vaccine, I know we’ll be better protected. With the availability of drinking water and if we all comply with basic sanitation measures, our community can resume activities and live without fear,” he says. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Syrians share stories of violence and displacement from temporary shelters in the northeast

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Shivan* still recalls the terrible days he and his family experienced as fighting approached his town, Manbij, in northern Syria, in December 2024. He met a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) team during their visit to a school sheltering displaced people in Hassakeh governorate, and he shared stories of losing loved ones and fears about an unknown future.

    “We heard the sounds of fighting and explosions in Manbij and tried to stay safe, hoping that things would calm down and we wouldn’t have to flee. But the shooting intensified and came closer,” he says.

    When the armed men arrived, they ordered Shivan and everyone in their neighbourhood to leave their homes. “One of my friends refused to leave saying, ‘I am not going to leave my home’. I told him to just leave before they force us to, but I never imagined it would go like this,” Shivan says. “They shot him in the head without hesitation. I’ll never forget that day; my friend was killed in front of me.”

    Seeing the blood of his friend on the street, Shivan and his family joined an estimated 100,000 people who fled Manbij and Tal Rifaat to find safety in Raqqa and Hassakeh governorates in northeast Syria.

    This wave of displacement is part of a recurring cycle of violence and displacement that has been impacting Syrians for 13 years. Now, the most recent escalation of violence, including in Tel Rifaat, Shehba, and Manbij, has made these areas unsafe, forcing thousands to flee once again.

    MSF was not present in the areas people fled from, but collected testimonies about severe violence, including killings, harassment, and physical attacks, that people witnessed in their hometowns and along their journey to northeast Syria.

    “They physically abused us. Everyone was a target, they harassed my sisters and myself, touching our bodies and humiliated us in ways I can’t describe,” says Jiyan*, a woman who was also displaced from Manbij. “I wanted to fight back, to do something, but they had a gun pointed at my head, I couldn’t do anything but watch as they violated my family and my home.”

    Since then, thousands of displaced people have been staying in various temporary shelters. These places are harsh in the cold winter, not offering proper insulation, heating, or privacy. Many families struggled to find safe and stable shelter.

    A classroom in a school in Raqqa which has turned into a shelter for displaced people. Syria, January 2025.
    Giammarco Sicuro

    “When we reached Tabqa, we found out the situation there was not good,” says Layla*, who was displaced from Manbij. “The area was overcrowded with other displaced people, and there was no way we could stay there for long. I decided to bring my family here to Hassakeh, hoping for a better place to live.”

    MSF teams have been providing essential supplies, like hygiene kits, diapers, blankets, pillows, mattresses, and warm jackets, to improve people’s health and wellbeing, and reinforce their dignity. More than 17,500 essential items were distributed in 87 emergency collective centres across northeast Syria since December 2024.

    MSF teams have also carried out activities to improve access to clean water, including providing more than 5,000,000 litres of water to collective centres in Tabqa, Raqqa, and Hassakeh. To improve sanitation and prevent the spread of disease outbreaks, the teams have been cleaning latrines in make-shift collective centres.

    While local responders and international organisations are providing support, some essential services, including care for non-communicable diseases, are unavailable. In a further effort to address urgent healthcare needs, MSF launched mobile clinics in Tabqa providing medical services. In Kobane/Ain Al-Arab, MSF also donated 20,000 measles vaccines to support local healthcare services.

    17,500

    17,5

    essential items distributed

    5,000,000

    5,000,

    litres of water provided

    20,000

    20,

    measles vaccines donated

    The recent displacement has exacerbated an acute and longstanding crisis. People are living in overcrowded camps, infrastructure has been severely damaged, and there is a general lack of basics like water, electricity, healthcare, food, and weather-appropriate shelter.

    As of 20 January, around 24,000 people are still residing in makeshift shelters across northeast Syria. Some people felt comfortable enough to return to other areas across Syria, and others found accommodations with host communities. 
    With no safe place to return to, the need for support to those who have been displaced remains urgent.

    “I’m trying to survive,” says Ali*, a 70-year-old man. “But I have nothing left except memories of a life that was taken from me. I have no place to call home anymore.”

    *Names have been changed to protect the privacy and security of people providing testimonies.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Camp Hill virus explained: what are the risks of a henipavirus outbreak in America?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Shirin Ashraf, Postdoctoral Researcher, MRC-Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow

    A new pathogen, called Camp Hill virus, was recently discovered in Alabama, drawing attention to a group of viruses known as henipaviruses. This is a big deal because other viruses in this group are linked to serious, often fatal, disease, and this is the first time one of them has been found in North America.

    Camp Hill virus was discovered by looking at tissue samples from short-tailed shrews that were collected in 2021. It’s a new species of virus that’s related to other dangerous viruses such as Nipah and Hendra, which have caused serious outbreaks in other parts of the world. It’s also distantly related to the measles virus.

    The first known henipavirus, Hendra virus, was identified in Australia in 1994. There have been just seven cases of humans getting infected – four of them were fatal.

    Nipah virus, discovered in Malaysia in 1998, is much more deadly. It has caused 30 outbreaks in south-east Asia, infecting over 600 people, with death rates as high as 100% in some cases.

    These viruses usually cause fever and other serious symptoms, such as brain swelling and difficulty breathing. They are thought to be carried by bats and can spread to humans through their saliva or urine. Horses are also thought to be carriers.

    Thanks to new technology that allows scientists to study the genetics of viruses, they’ve now found nearly 20 species of henipaviruses around the world. These viruses have been found on every continent except Antarctica, including places like Ghana, China, Australia and Brazil. This shows that henipaviruses are probably common in nature, and new ones could pop up almost anywhere.

    For example, in China, a virus called Mojang virus was linked to the deaths of three workers who were exposed to it in a mine. Another virus, Langya, spread by shrews, caused an outbreak in which 35 people got sick – although they all recovered.

    So far, other henipaviruses haven’t caused human infections, but the potential is there.

    The rapid growth in our understanding of these viruses comes from improvements in technology and global efforts to study diseases. But it also reminds us that viruses can suddenly jump from animals to humans in unpredictable ways.

    Whether a virus can harm humans depends on how well it can infect human cells, and how badly it affects the body. Some viruses cause mild symptoms, while others can lead to life-threatening diseases. Studying these viruses requires scientists to look closely at their genetic code and run laboratory tests to understand how they work.

    Henipaviruses can infect many animals, including bats, horses, monkeys, dogs, cats and even rodents. This means they are more adaptable and have a higher chance of jumping from animals to humans in different ways. In comparison, a virus like measles can only infect humans, which makes it less likely to spread to other species.

    No drugs or vaccines … yet

    There is no cure for henipavirus infections, but researchers are working on a vaccine for Nipah virus. Some new treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies, are also being developed but aren’t ready for use yet. This makes Nipah and Hendra viruses major public health concerns. The World Health Organization has called for more research to help fight them.

    While there’s no evidence that Camp Hill virus has infected any humans yet – and the chances of it doing so are low – its discovery in North America is a reminder that viruses can emerge anywhere. Even though shrews usually live in forests and don’t come into much contact with people, the potential for the virus to spread remains a worry.

    The more we learn about these viruses, the better we’ll be at creating vaccines that can protect us from both known and new threats. Keeping up with research and staying prepared is crucial to protecting global health from future outbreaks.

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

    – ref. Camp Hill virus explained: what are the risks of a henipavirus outbreak in America? – https://theconversation.com/camp-hill-virus-explained-what-are-the-risks-of-a-henipavirus-outbreak-in-america-249183

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Saving Lives, Delivering the Future: Heroes in Uniform and Scrubs

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Story by: Chiara M. Caputo

    U.S. Navy Medicine and Training Command (USNMRTC) Sigonella highlights the accomplishments of three remarkable physicians who have dedicated their lives to serving both their patients and their country. These leaders in military medicine embody the values of innovation, resilience, and selfless service.

    Through their tireless efforts, these physicians have not only advanced medical care within the Military Health System but have also paved the way for future generations of leaders in medicine and the armed forces. Each of their stories highlights a profound commitment to excellence and a passion for making a difference, whether on the battlefield, in clinics, or through groundbreaking research.

    We honor their contributions and celebrate their unwavering dedication to health care, military service, and the pursuit of a healthier, stronger future. Through their stories, we hope to inspire future generations and showcase the unwavering commitment of these women in uniform and in diverse roles in Navy Medicine.

    Brandi L Sakai, MD
    Commander, USN
    Board Certified Emergency Medicine Physician

    Born in Welsh, Louisiana, on June 6, 1981, Cmdr. Sakai grew up with a passion for science and the ocean. After graduating from the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts in 1998, she pursued marine biology, studying diverse ecosystems from the marshes of Louisiana to Scotland’s marine mammals and the vibrant reefs of the Virgin Islands. Her work at the Roy L. Schneider Hospital’s barometric pressure chamber sparked her drive to combine science with service, graduating cum laude with a B.S. in Biology.

    In 2005, she commissioned in the Navy through the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) and began medical school at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. Hurricane Katrina hit during her training, and Commander Sakai worked tirelessly in pop-up clinics, providing care and vaccinations to displaced communities. This experience shaped her dedication to serving others in times of crisis.
    Her Navy career has been marked by leadership and innovation. From integrating Marine medical services in Japan to creating advanced training programs for shock trauma care, she has consistently raised the bar for military medicine. As the Senior Medical Officer in Okinawa and later the Department Head of Emergency Medicine in Guantanamo Bay, she improved operations, ensured top-tier care, and earned recognition for her commitment to excellence.

    Beyond her professional achievements, Commander Sakai is a certified Emergency Medicine Diplomate and a devoted wife and mother of two. When she’s not scuba diving, sailing, or baking, she’s embracing projects that reflect her passion for problem-solving and innovation.

    Reflecting on her career, Cmdr. Sakai shared, “I had many jobs that many would consider a career. I was a PADI scuba instructor and manager of the storefront of a tour operation in St. Thomas US Virgin Islands (USVI). If you took a cruise to the island, you walked past our store on the docks. We may have said hello two decades ago! After doing the job for 5 years, I felt that I had learned all that I could, and there was no chance for advancement based on performance, so I knew that I needed something new and challenging. After getting my degree in Marine Biology and presenting environmental research to the Senate on USVI fisheries and the impact of hotel expansion, I realized that I enjoyed talking and educating people one-on-one, and speaking to rooms and presenting posters wasn’t going to make me happy. I volunteered at the local Emergency Department, and the variety and mental challenge of solving a puzzle on every patient kept me coming back. I decided to turn it into a career, but I also hated to stay in one place (there was a big wide world to explore), so I joined the Navy and never looked back. I did a General Surgery internship, and the Chaplain and I were the only Naval Officers in my first duty with the Marines in Iwakuni, Japan for 3 years. Being part of the Marines for 3 years to start my career really shaped me and set the tone for all my OCONUS tours since. My husband was an Ombudsman and found a great career as a financial educator that allows him to work virtually. If you need advice on mainland Japan, Korea, Okinawa, or Guantanamo Bay, or love medicine and want to explore your options give me a ring.”

    Meagan G. Chauvin, MD, FACOG
    Lieutenant Commander, USN
    Director of Medical Services/Staff Attending OBGYN

    A Houston, Texas native, Lt. Cmdr. Meagan Chauvin has built a remarkable career in military medicine. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with Distinction from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2010, she completed her Medical Doctorate at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston in 2014. She completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency in 2018 at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

    Her first assignment as a staff OB/GYN took her to Naval Hospital Guam, where she led the OB/GYN Clinic as Department Head and earned Board Certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Later, at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital in Virginia, she became Department Chief of the Women’s Health Clinic, further demonstrating her leadership and dedication to women’s health.

    Now serving as the Director of Medical Services at Naval Hospital Sigonella in Italy, Lt. Cmdr. Chauvin continues to lead with excellence. Among her awards are the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.

    Lt. Cmdr. Chauvin is also a proud wife to Matthew Gerard Chauvin and mom to three children—EJ, Madeline, and Ellie—balancing her professional success with a fulfilling family life. Reflecting on her career, LCDR Chauvin shared, “I was inspired to become an OBGYN, because I loved taking care of women across their lifespan and developing long-term relationships with my patients. In addition, I love welcoming babies into the world and being part of helping patients grow their families. I joined the Navy after being inspired by classmates from high school who also went to service academies. The Naval Academy was an amazing experience that led me to the most important job I can imagine, supporting Navy women and families as an OBGYN. I am proud to follow in the Navy tradition of my great grandfather, who served on a troop transport ship in WWI, and my grandfather, who joined via the Navy V-12 program during WWII.”

    Kristen Shafer, MC
    Lieutenant, USN
    Emergency Medicine Attending

    Born in New York, New York, Lt. Shafer discovered her passion for science and outreach early in life. After earning her bachelor’s degree in chemistry pre-medicine at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2014, she brought the wonders of chemistry to life for local elementary students through her self-created Chemistry Magic Show.

    In 2015, she pursued her Master of Science in Space Physiology and Health at King’s College London, where her thesis explored visual function and impairment in dynamic environments. She collaborated with the United Kingdom space program’s Mission X initiative, blending her love of science with public engagement.

    Lt. Shafer joined the Navy through the HPSP program and earned her Doctor of Medicine from Stony Brook University in 2020, graduating early to assist with the initial surge of COVID-19 patients in New York. She went on to complete her Emergency Medicine Residency at USNMRTC Portsmouth in 2024, where she expanded Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) outreach programs, inspiring over 300 high school students annually.

    Now an Emergency Medicine Attending at USNMRTC Sigonella, Lt. Shafer continues her commitment to both medicine and mentorship. As Emergency Response Committee Chair, she oversees emergency preparedness, and as a liaison to local DoDEA schools, she is developing a mentorship program to introduce students to healthcare careers and military opportunities.

    With a passion for outreach and academic medicine, LT Shafer embodies the Navy’s mission to serve both on and off the field, inspiring the next generation of leaders. Reflecting on her career in emergency medicine, Lt. Shafer said, “In emergency medicine, we need to be ready for whatever comes in the door at any time. Military medicine lets me practice that medicine and be comfortable providing care not just at any time, but any place in the world and to a population that is dedicated to serving others and making a difference.”

    USNMRTC Sigonella is one of The Defense Health Agency’s Overseas Military Treatment Facilities (MTF). The staff are comprised of active duty service members, General Service (GS), contractors, and Local Nationals. It ensures maximum readiness by providing high-quality, safe patient and family-centered care to maximize force health protection for all beneficiaries, to included NATO and transient DoD forces in the U.S. Fifth Fleet and U.S. Sixth Fleet areas of operation.

    The U. S. Naval Academy (USNA) offers a variety of academic curriculums that prepare their graduates for a rewarding military career. Graduates of the USNA will accept a commission for 5 years of active duty service in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps. For more information regarding the USNA visit: https://www.usna.edu/homepage.php.

    If you are already in or plan to attend school to be a physician, dentist, optometrist, physician assistant or clinical psychologist, the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) will pay your educationally based tuition and fees for up to four years of school and provide a monthly stipend paid directly to you. After graduation, you’ll join the Navy’s active duty team as a commissioned officer. In return, you agree to serve a minimum of 2 years on active duty or year for year of scholarship, whichever is longer.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE (FMD)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:37PM by PIB Delhi

    Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease of livestock with the significant economic impact.   The steps taken by the Union Government in this regard; are as under:

    i. National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP) was launched in 2019 with a provision of 100% central assistance to states and Union Territories for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination.NADCP was included as a component under Livestock Health and Disease Control programme (LHDCP) scheme from 2021

    1. Procurement and supply of the quality FMD vaccine for required FMD vaccination and ear tags for respective States and Union Territories is done centrally
    2. Financial support is provided to States and Union Territories for procurement of vaccination accessories, strengthening of cold chain infrastructure and for awareness generation amongststakeholders
    3. Financial support is provided to Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)- National Institute of Foot and Mouth Disease (NIFMD)-Bhubaneswar, ICAR- Indian Veterinary Research Institutes (IVRI)-Bareilly, ICAR-IVRI-Bengaluru, ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI)-Bengaluru and Chaudhary Charan Singh National Institute of Animal Health-Baghpat for FMD related activities
    4. Data related to registration of livestock using ear-tags and vaccination is uploaded on Bharat Pashudhan portal
    5. As gathered from States/UTs, cumulative vaccination under National Animal Disease Control Programme till date (January, 2025) against FMD is 107.34 crore. The vaccinations done Round-wise is 16.91 crore, 24.18 crore, 24.23 crore and 24.84 crore for Rounds I, II, III and IV respectively. The Rounds V and VI are ongoing in various States/ UTs and till date 14.89 crore and 2.29 crore vaccinations have been done respectively.
    6. On 17th August, 2024, a review of the measures was taken by the Department towards achieving the goal of FMD-Mukt Bharat. Besides, Regional review meetings are conducted twice with participation from all States and Union Territories to assess the progress of ongoing initiatives and programs including vaccination against FMD. These reviews serve as a platform for evaluating the implementation status, identifying challenges, and sharing best practices among stakeholders. Also, time to time various national level meetings like monsoon meet, conclaves are held by which status of FMD control is reviewed with States/ UTs.
    7. The State/Union Territory wise released funds are at Annexure I. 
    8. There is considerable reduction in FMD outbreaks over last few years, by over 60% from prior to launch of NADCP to 5 years of its implementation. The outbreaks now are sporadic in nature and there have been cases of FMD affecting limited number of animals
    9. Sampling plans are shared timely with States and overall, the protective titres indicated by seromonitoring are showing an increasing trend. The serosurveillance values are also showing a decreasing trend. These indicate the effectiveness of the vaccination programme.

     

    Under LHDCP, 100% assistance is provided to all States/Union Territory irrespective of region in the Country for control and eradication of FMD for activities as per operational guidelines of the concerned scheme ie. LHDCP. As far as FMD free zone is concerned, it is only an intermediate stage/measure aiming differentiated focus based on need and requirements. As of now, 09 states namely Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Haryana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Uttarakhand identified to have special focus to make them FMD free. Adding more states for special focus to make them FMD free depends upon their need and requirement.

    Annexure I

    The State/Union Territory wise released of funds for vaccination programmes including FMD from 2019-20 till 2024-25 (till 31-01-2025):

    (Rs. in Lakh)

    S.NO.

    State/UTs

    2019-20 to

    2024-25 (till 31-01-2025)

    1

    Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    19.89

    2

    Andhra Pradesh

    16373.84

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    1826.4

    4

    Assam

    5016.71

    5

    Bihar

    8428.8

    6

    Chandigarh

    14.13

    7

    Chhattisgarh

    4134.17

    8

    Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu

    6.62

    9

    Goa

    246.6

    10

    Gujarat

    3383.75

    11

    Haryana

    5865.54

    12

    Himachal Pradesh

    1265.54

    13

    Jammu & Kashmir

    2193.58

    14

    Jharkhand

    3090.83

    15

    Karnataka

    8426.89

    16

    Kerala

    1039.14

    17

    Ladakh

    190.74

    18

    Lakshadweep

    40.22

    19

    Madhya Pradesh

    9968.88

    20

    Maharashtra

    14424.41

    21

    Manipur

    194.94

    22

    Meghalaya

    501.74

    23

    Mizoram

    245.79

    24

    Nagaland

    203.18

    25

    NCT Delhi

    74.57

    26

    Odisha

    3772.15

    27

    Puducherry

    46.18

    28

    Punjab

    1381.33

    29

    Rajasthan

    6636.26

    30

    Sikkim

    391.35

    31

    Tamil Nadu

    4981.02

    32

    Telangana

    3947.1

    33

    Tripura

    786.31

    34

    Uttar Pradesh

    21892.39

    35

    Uttarakhand

    1608.61

    36

    West Bengal

    7099.33

    This information was given by the Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MILK PRODUCTS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:35PM by PIB Delhi

    The productivity of Indigenous bovine breeds in the country is low compared to advanced dairy nations globally and this is mainly due to low genetic potential of dairy animals and animals are maintained on low plane of nutrition.  However, the total productivity of Bovines in the country has increased from 1640 kilograms per animal per year in 2014-15 to 2072 kilograms per animal per year in 2023-24 that is by 26.34% which is the highest productivity gain by any country in the world.  The productivity of the indigenous and non-descript cattle has increased from 927 kilograms per animal per year in 2014-15 to 1292 kilograms per animal per year in 2023-24 that is by 39.37 %. The productivity of the buffaloes has increased from 1880 kilograms per animal per year in 2014-15 to 2161 kilograms per animal per year in 2023-24 that is by 14.94%. Milk production in the country has increased from 146.31 Million Tonnes in 2014-15 to 239.30 Million Tonnes in 2023-24 that is by 63.55 % during the last 10 years. Rashtriya Gokul Mission envisages to achieve productivity of bovines upto 3000 kilograms of milk per animal per year by 2030.

    In order to complement and supplement the efforts of the States and Union Territories to improve the nutrition, management practices, genetic potential of local cattle breeds and to provide training and support to dairy farmers in adopting best practices, the details of the steps undertaken and schemes being implemented by Government of India is as under:

    1.         Rashtriya Gokul Mission: The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is implementing Rashtriya Gokul Mission since December 2014 for development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds, genetic upgradation of bovine population and enhancement of milk production and productivity of bovines. Following efforts are being made under the scheme to enhance milk production and productivity of bovines:

    (i)         Nationwide Artificial Insemination Program: Under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is expanding artificial insemination coverage to boost the milk production and productivity of bovines, including indigenous breeds.

    (ii)        Progeny Testing and Pedigree Selection: This program aims to produce high genetic merit bulls, including bulls of indigenous breeds. Progeny testing is implemented for Gir, Sahiwal breeds of cattle, and Murrah, Mehsana breeds of buffaloes. Under the Pedigree selection programme Rathi, Tharparkar, Hariana, Kankrej breed of cattle and Jaffarabadi, Nili Ravi, Pandharpuri and Banni breed of buffalo are covered.

    (iii)       Implementation of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Technology: To propagate elite animals of indigenous breeds, the Department has established 22 IVF laboratories. The technology has important role in genetic upgradation of bovine population in single generation. Further, to deliver technology at reasonable rates to farmers Government has launched IVF media.

    (iv)       Sex-Sorted Semen Production: The Department has established sex sorted semen production facilities at 5 government semen stations located in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. 3 private semen stations are also producing sex sorted semen doses.

    (v)        Genomic Selection: To accelerate genetic improvement of cattle and buffaloes, the Department has developed unified genomic chips—Gau Chip for indigenous cattle and Mahish Chip for buffaloes—specifically designed for initiating genomic selection in the country.

    (vi)       Multi-purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRIs): Under the scheme MAITRIs are trained and equipped to deliver quality Artificial Insemination services at farmers’ doorstep.

    (vii)      Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme using sex sorted semen: This program aims to produce female calves with up to 90% accuracy, thereby enhancing breed improvement and farmers’ income. Farmers receive support for assured pregnancy upto 50% of the cost of sex sorted semen.

    (viii)     Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme using In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) technology: This technology is utilized for the rapid genetic upgradation of bovines and an incentive of Rs 5,000 per assured pregnancy is made available to farmers interested in taking up IVF technology.

    2.         National Livestock Mission (NLM): National Livestock Mission (NLM) aims to create employment generation, entrepreneurship development, increase in per-animal productivity and thus targeting increased production of meat, goat milk, egg and wool under the umbrella scheme Development Programme.  The scheme envisages following three submissions: (i) Sub-Mission on Breed Development of Livestock and Poultry; (ii) Sub-Mission on Feed and Fodder Development and (iii) Sub-Mission on Innovation, Extension. Details of the activities covered under these submissions are as under:

    (A) Sub-mission on Breed Development of Livestock and Poultry:  This Sub-Mission has following activities: (I)                 Establishment of Entrepreneurs for breed development: under this activity following sub activities are included (i) Establishment of Entrepreneurs for breed development of Rural Poultry and (ii) Establishment of Entrepreneur for breed development in small ruminant sector (sheep and goat farming). (II) Genetic Improvement of Sheep and Goat breeds: under this activity following are the sub activities: (i) Establishment of Regional Semen Production Laboratory and Semen Bank for sheep and goat; (ii) Establishment of State Semen Bank: (iii) Propagation of Artificial Insemination through existing cattle and buffalo Artificial Insemination centers and (iv)  Import of exotic sheep and goat germplasm.  (III) Promotion of Piggery Entrepreneur. (IV) Genetic Improvement of Pig breeds: Under this activity following activities are implemented:  (i) Establishment of pig semen collection and processing lab and (ii) Import of exotic pig germplasm. (V) Establishment of Entrepreneurs for horse, donkey, mule and camel. (VI) Genetic Improvement of Horse, Donkey, Mule, Camel:  (i) Regional Semen Station for Horse, donkey and camel; (ii) Nucleus Breed Farm for Conservation of Horse/Donkey/Camel germplasm and (iii) Breed Registration Society.

    (B) Sub-Mission on feed and fodder development: The Sub-Mission of the feed and fodder is covering the following activities: (I)     Assistance for quality Fodder seed production. (II) Entrepreneurial activities in feed and fodder. (III) Establishment of Entrepreneurs for Fodder Seed processing Infrastructure (processing and grading unit/ fodder seed storage godown). (IV) Fodder production from Non-Forest Wasteland / Rangeland / Non-arable Land” and “Fodder Production from Forest Land.

    (C)       Sub Mission on Innovation and Extension: Under this Sub-Mission the following are the activities: (I) Research and Development and innovations. (II) Extension activities. (III) Livestock Insurance programme.

    3.         National Programme for Dairy Development: This scheme focuses on creating dairy infrastructure for the procurement, processing, and marketing of milk and milk products in the cooperative dairy sector inter alia training and awareness programs for dairy farmers, input services such as cattle-feed and mineral mixtures, and assistance for quality testing of milk and milk products, thereby improving the economic condition of dairy farmers enrolled in cooperatives.

    4.         Livestock Health and Disease Control (LH & DC): The scheme is implemented for providing assistance for control of animal diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease, Brucellosis and also to provide assistance to State Governments for Control of other infectious diseases of livestock including dairy animals. Mobile Veterinary Units are established under the scheme to deliver quality livestock health services at farmers doorstep. Under the vaccination programme: (i) more than 100 crore vaccinations have been done against FMD including 35 crore vaccination performed during current year; and (ii) about 4.3 crore calves vaccinated against Brucellosis under brucellosis control programme including 1.3 crore calves vaccinated during current year. Under the component of Establishment and Strengthening of Veterinary Hospitals and Dispensaries (ESVHD- MVU), 100% financial assistance is provided towards procurement & customization of Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs) with recurring operational expenditure in the ratio of 90:10 for North Eastern & Himalayan States; 60% for other States, and 100% for UTs for delivery of veterinary healthcare services through Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs) through a Toll-Free Number (1962) at farmers’ doorsteps which include disease diagnosis, treatment, vaccination, minor surgical interventions, audio-visual aids and extension services. So far, 4016 MVUs are operational in 28 states and 65 lakh farmers benefitted. This helps in increasing productivity

    5.         Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) The scheme is to facilitate incentivisation of investments to establish (i) Dairy processing and product diversification infrastructure, (ii) Meat processing and product diversification infrastructure and (iii) Animal Feed Plant (iv) Breed Improvement Technology and Breed Multiplication Farm, (v) Veterinary Vaccine and Drugs production facilities, (vi) Animal waste to wealth management (Agri-waste Management). Keeping in view of the success of AHIDF, the erstwhile Dairy Processing Infrastructure Development Fund has been subsumed with the AHIDF on 01.02.2024. Now total size of the fund is Rs 29110 cr.

    The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is implementing Centrally Sponsored Scheme National Livestock Mission with a Sub-Mission on Feed and Fodder Development. Under the Submission, fodder development activity is undertaken through strengthening of fodder seed chain (Breeder-Foundation-Certified) thereby improving the availability of certified/quality fodder seeds required for production of high quality and  nutritious fodder. Approx.  1.03 lakh Tons of fodder seeds were produced under the Component Assistance for Quality Fodder Seeds Production since 2021-22 with release of funds of Rs.636.83 crores. The details of the progress under the component is at Annexure-I

    Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)- Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute ( IGFRI) Jhansi along with its All India Co-ordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Forage Crops & Utilization with 22 coordinated centers located in 21 states of the country are dedicatedly working on development of high yielding and nutritious fodder crop varieties for different agro-climatic conditions of the country and many varieties have been released for cultivation. Different approaches of crop improvement viz. speed breeding, apomixes; gene editing, SS markers, transgenic etc. are being used to develop high yielding trait specific cultivars. Major thrust are being placed for the development of varieties with attributes of high yielding, nutritionally superior, climatically resilient and resistant for different biotic factor. Till now more than 400 improved varieties in 40 fodder crops has been developed for different parts of the country and out of these about 200 varieties are in seed production chain. During last five years (2019-2024) nutritionally better and high yielding 86 varieties/ hybrids in 17 fodder crops have been identified/ notified for the cultivation in different agro-climatic regions of the country.

    Annexure-I

    Progress under component Assistance for Quality Fodder seeds Production under realign National Livestock Mission (NLM)

    1. Physical Progress – Year and Class wise Fodder Seed Production (Qtls)

    Class of seeds

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2024-25

    Total

    Breeder

    530.13

    0

    0

    0

    530.13

    Foundation

    6120.87

    21864.75

    15312.89

    12832.06

    56130.57

    Certified

    104852.2

    303222.4

    407874.5

    159383.0

    975332.1

    Total

    111503.2

    325087.2

    423187.4

    172215.1

    1031993
    1. Financial Progress – Year-wise Release of funds

    Year

    Release of funds (Rs.in crores)

    2021-22

    100.44

    2022-23

    159.99

    2023-24

    156.07

    2024-25

    (As on 4.2.2025)

    220.31

    Total Releases

    636.83

    This information was given by the Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: VACCINATION TARGETS UNDER LIVESTOCK

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying

    VACCINATION TARGETS UNDER LIVESTOCK

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:34PM by PIB Delhi

    The following actions taken by Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying(DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries & AHD Government of India to streamlined the vaccination programs against FMD, Brucellosis, PPR and CSF;.

    1. Vaccination against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Brucellosis, Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and Classical Swine Fever (CSF) is covered under 100% central assistance under Livestock Health And Disease Control Programme (LHDCP)  for all States and Union Territories.
      1. As gathered from States/UTs, cumulative vaccination till date (January, 2025), 107.34 crore, 4.39 crore, 20,40 crore, 0.67  crore vaccine hasbeen done against FMD, Brucellosis, PPR and CSF respectively. The last FMD-Round IV vaccination completed has covered more than 96% vaccination coverage (24.84 crore).  Further, FMD Rounds V and VI are ongoing in various States with nearly 14.89 Crores and 2.29 Crores vaccinations done respectively.
      1. The coverage percentage of vaccination program has increased, and the gaps have been narrowed down by ensuring timely supply of quality tested vaccines for FMD, Brucellosis, PPR and CSF along with awareness generation among stakeholders
      1. Assistance to States for Control of Animal Disease (ASCAD) for control of state prioritized exotic, emergent and zoonotic animal diseases with funding pattern of 60:40 between Central and State; 90:10 for hilly and North East States and 100% for UTs. Total more than 27.21 crore cattle have been vaccinated/re-vaccinated upto January, 2025 against Lumpy Skin Disease in the country.
      1. Financial support is provided to Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR)- National Institute of Foot and Mouth Disease (NIFMD)-Bhubaneswar, ICAR- Indian Veterinary Research Institutes (IVRI)-Bareilly, ICAR-IVRI-Bengaluru, ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI)-Bengaluru and Chaudhary Charan Singh National Institute of Animal Health-Baghpat for FMD related activities
      1. Data related to registration of livestock using ear-tags and vaccination  is uploaded on Bharat Pashudhan portal

    Total vaccination performance reducing the gap under the programmeare at Annexure-I

    ANNEXURE-I

     

    Animals Vaccinated in FMD Round IV

    Animals Vaccinated in FMD Round V

    (ongoing)

    Animals Vaccinated in FMD Round VI

    (ongoing)

    Animals Vaccinated against Brucellosis

    Animals Vaccinated against PPR Round I

    Animals Vaccinated against PPR Round II

    Animals Vaccinated against CSF Round I

    Animals Vaccinated against CSF Round II

    Progress of vaccination mentioned in 4th report of standing committee on agriculture, animal husbandry and food processing

    21,13,30,176

    5,35,73,039

    Not mentioned

    4,23,46,856

    15,19,38,427

    2,17,66,205

    49,05,771

    10,85,612

    Present status

    24,84,36,177

     

    14,88,63,831

     

    2,29,21,706

    4,38,86,128

    16,57,04,186

    3,82,66,375

    51,41,962

    15,08,624

    This information was given by the Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    AA

    (Release ID: 2101852)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DAIRY VALUE CHAIN

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:33PM by PIB Delhi

    Animal Husbandry is an important sub-sector of Indian agricultural economy and plays a multifaceted role in providing nutrition and livelihood support to the rural population. Milk plays an important role in nutritional security as it is important source of animal protein. Milk is a near complete food and has high nutritive value. It contains body building proteins, bone forming minerals, health giving vitamins, furnishes energy giving lactose and milk fat. Milk and dairy products are vital sources of nourishment for billions globally, benefiting people of all ages, from young children to older adults, by supporting health and active lifestyles. Nutrient-dense and energy-rich, milk provides high-quality protein along with essential micronutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and phosphorus, all in forms that the body can readily absorb. Numerous studies highlight the key role of milk and dairy in supporting healthy nutrition and development throughout life, particularly during childhood. As of date per capita availability of milk  has increased to 471 gram / day higher than, ICMR recommendation of 300 gram/ day. The livestock sector apart from contributing to national economy in general and to agricultural economy in particular also provides employment generation opportunities, asset creation, handling mechanism against crop failure and social and financial security. The benefit of the schemes has been accruing to all farmers engaged in dairying in terms of enhancement in milk production and productivity of bovines. Value of output of milk is more than Rs.11.16 lakh crore during 2022-23 (As per National Accounts Statistics 2024)  which is the highest of the agriculture produce and even more than the combined value of Paddy and Wheat. The schemes are playing important role in enhancing milk production and productivity of bovines to meet growing demand of milk and making dairying more remunerative to the rural farmers of the country.

    In order tostrengthen the dairy value chain right from quality feed, breed, processing, value addition to market linkages the following steps are undertaken by Government of India:

     

    1.         Rashtriya Gokul Mission:        Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India is implementing Rashtriya Gokul Mission since December 2014 for development and conservation of indigenous breeds, genetic upgradation of bovine population and enhancement of milk production and productivity of bovines. Following steps are taken under the scheme to enhance milk production and productivity of bovines:

    (i)         Nationwide Artificial Insemination Program: Under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India is expanding artificial insemination coverage to boost the milk production and productivity of bovines, including indigenous breeds. As on date, 8.32 crore animals have been covered, with 12.20 crore artificial inseminations performed, benefiting 5.19 crore farmers.

     

    (ii)        Progeny Testing and Pedigree Selection: This program aims to produce high genetic merit bulls, including bulls of indigenous breeds. Progeny testing is implemented for Gir, Sahiwal breeds of cattle, and Murrah, Mehsana breeds of buffaloes. Under the Pedigree selection programme Rathi, Tharparkar, Hariana, Kankrej breed of cattle and Jaffarabadi, Nili Ravi, Pandharpuri and Banni breed of buffalo are covered. So far 3,988 high genetic merit bulls have produced and inducted for semen production.

     

    (iii)       Implementation of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Technology: To propagate elite animals of indigenous breeds, the Department has established 22 IVF laboratories. The technology has important role in genetic upgradation of bovine population in single generation. Further, to deliver technology at reasonable rates to farmers Government has launched indigenously developed IVF media.

     

    (iv)       Sex-Sorted Semen Production: The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India has established sex sorted semen production facilities at 5 government semen stations located in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. 3 private semen stations are also producing sex sorted semen doses. So far 1.15 crore sex-sorted semen doses from high genetic merit bulls have been produced and made available for Artificial Insemination.

     

    (v)        Genomic Selection: To accelerate genetic improvement of cattle and buffaloes, the Department has developed unified genomic chips—Gau Chip for indigenous cattle and Mahish Chip for buffaloes—specifically designed for initiating genomic selection in the country.

     

    (vi)       Multi-purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRIs): Under the scheme MAITRIs are trained and equipped to deliver quality Artificial Insemination services at farmers’ doorstep. During the last 3 years 38,736 MAITRIs have been trained and equipped under Rashtriya Gokul Mission.

     

    (vii)      Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme using sex sorted semen: This program aims to produce female calves with up to 90% accuracy, thereby enhancing breed improvement and farmers’ income. Farmers receive support for assured pregnancy upto 50% of the cost of sex sorted semen. As of now, 341,998 farmers have been benefited from this program. Government has launched indigenously developed sex sorted semen technology to deliver sex sorted semen at reasonable rates to farmers.

     

    (viii)     Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme using In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) technology: This technology is utilized for the rapid genetic upgradation of bovines and an incentive of Rs 5,000 per assured pregnancy is made available to farmers interested in taking up IVF technology.

     

    2.         National Livestock Mission (NLM): The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India is implementing NLM scheme since the financial year 2014-15. In view of the present need of the sector the NLM scheme has been revised and realigned from financial year 2021-22. The National Livestock Mission along with along other components and subcomponents of the scheme covers Sub-Mission on feed and fodder development.

    The Sub-Mission of the feed and fodder is covering the following activities:

    Activity I:        Assistance for quality Fodder seed production: 100% incentivization for production of all categories of fodder seed production by Central and State Govt. institutions;

    Activity II:       Entrepreneurial activities in feed and fodder: One time 50% capital subsidy up to Rs 50 lakh is provided to the Individuals. SHG, FCOs JLG, FPOs, Dairy Cooperative societies, section 8 companies are incentivized for the value addition such as Hay/Silage/Total Mixed Ration(TMR)/ Fodder Block.

    Activity III: Establishment of Entrepreneurs for Fodder Seed processing Infrastructure (processing and grading unit/ fodder seed storage godown):  One time 50% capital subsidy up to Rs 50 lakh is provided to companies, start-ups/ SHGs/FPOs/FCOs/JLGs/ Cooperative societies Section 8 companies and other credible organizations for establishing fodder seed processing infrastructure.

    Activity IV:      Fodder production from Non-Forest Wasteland / Rangeland / Non-arable Land” and “Fodder Production from Forest Land: The Central assistance is provided for production of various fodder in the degraded non-forest wasteland / rangeland / grassland/ non-arable land and forest land to enhance the vegetation cover of problematic soils like saline, acidic and heavy soil. 

    The Scheme National Livestock Mission also provides assistance to States/ UTs for livestock Insurance and component is implemented on 60:40 sharing basis between the Central Government and States and 90:10 sharing basis for North-Eastern and Himalayan States. Along with other livestock species dairy animals including cattle buffaloes are covered under the component.

    3.         National Programme for Dairy Development: This scheme focuses on creating dairy infrastructure for the procurement, processing, and marketing of milk and milk products in the cooperative dairy sector inter alia training and awareness programs for dairy farmers, input services such as cattle-feed and mineral mixtures, and assistance for quality testing of milk and milk products, thereby improving the economic condition of dairy farmers enrolled in cooperatives.

    4.         Livestock Health and Disease Control (LH & DC): The scheme is implemented for providing assistance for control of animal diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease, Brucellosis and also to provide assistance to State Governments for Control of other infectious diseases of livestock including dairy animals. Mobile Veterinary Units are established under the scheme to deliver quality livestock health services at farmers doorstep. Under the vaccination programme: (i) more than 100 crore vaccinations have been done against FMD including 35 crore vaccination performed during current year; and (ii) about 4.3 crore calves vaccinated against Brucellosis under brucellosis control programme including 1.3 crore calves vaccinated during current year. Under the component of Establishment and Strengthening of Veterinary Hospitals and Dispensaries (ESVHD- MVU), 100% financial assistance is provided towards procurement & customization of Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs) with recurring operational expenditure in the ratio of 90:10 for North Eastern & Himalayan States; 60% for other States, and 100% for UTs for delivery of veterinary healthcare services through Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs) through a Toll-Free Number (1962) at farmers’ doorsteps which include disease diagnosis, treatment, vaccination, minor surgical interventions, audio-visual aids and extension services. So far, 4016 MVUs are operational in 28 states and 65 lakh farmers benefitted.

    5.         Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) The scheme is  to facilitate incentivisation of investments to establish (i) Dairy processing and product diversification infrastructure, (ii) Meat processing and product diversification infrastructure and (iii) Animal Feed Plant (iv) Breed Improvement Technology and Breed Multiplication Farm, (v) Veterinary Vaccine and Drugs production facilities, (vi) Animal waste to wealth management (Agri-waste Management). Keeping in view of the success of AHIDF, the erstwhile Dairy Processing Infrastructure Development Fund has been subsumed with the AHIDF on 01.02.2024. Now total size of the fund is Rs 29110 crore.  So far 131 projects of dairy processing with the total project cost of Rs 5976 crore has been sanctioned under the scheme and 77 breed improvement projects with the total project cost of Rs 1027.82 crore.

     

    This information was given by the Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    AA

    (Release ID: 2101849) Visitor Counter : 25

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU response to the rise in animal disease outbreaks – E-000446/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000446/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Susana Solís Pérez (PPE), Carmen Crespo Díaz (PPE)

    In recent months, the EU has experienced a worrying upswing in outbreaks of animal diseases such as bluetongue, epizootic haemorrhagic disease, tuberculosis, African swine fever, avian influenza and foot-and-mouth disease. Although the recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease is in check, the cases of bovine tuberculosis in Asturias are proof of the vulnerability of the livestock sector to those health threats.

    The growing number of tuberculosis cases is a source of concern among farmers, with regard not only to its impact on animal health and food safety but also to the serious economic consequences of restrictions and compulsory slaughter. The causes of this trend must be identified and assessments carried out to establish whether there are structural, environmental or other factors conducive to the spread of diseases in European livestock.

    Against that backdrop, prevention and control must be stepped up, as must funds for epidemiological surveillance, vaccination and fair compensation for lost profits.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to carry out an analysis of the causes of the increase in animal disease outbreaks in the EU?
    • 2.What further steps is it considering taking to bolster prevention, improve health responses and ensure that affected farmers receive proper support?

    Submitted: 3.2.2025

    Last updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NARCOTICS TRADE

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 1:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Government has taken various measures to address the issue of illicit narcotics trade and to improve cooperation between local police and anti-narcotics efforts. Some of which are: –

      1. A 4-tier Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) mechanism for ensuring better coordination between Central & State Drug Law Enforcement Agencies and other stake holders in the field of controlling drug trafficking and drug abuse in India has been established. An all in-one NCORD portal has been developed for information related to drug law enforcement.
      1. To monitor the investigation of important and significant seizures, a Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) under the Chairmanship of Director General, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has been set up.
      1. A dedicated Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) headed by Additional Director General/ Inspector General level Police Officer has been established in each State/Union Territory and follow-up on compliance of decisions taken in NCORD meetings at different levels.
      1. Government has empowered National Investigation Agency under NDPS Act, 1985 in the year 2020 for investigation of narco-terrorism cases.
      1. Border Guarding Forces (Border Security Force, Assam Rifles and Sashastra Seema Bal) have been empowered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 to carry out search, seizure and arrest for illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs at international border. Further, Railway Protection Force (RPF) has also been empowered under NDPS Act to check drug trafficking along the railway routes.
      1. The Indian Coast Guard has been empowered under the Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 for making interdiction of narcotic drugs in Coastal and high seas.
      1. A high level dedicated group has been created in National Security of Council Secretariat (NSCS) to analyze drug trafficking through maritime routes, challenges and solutions (Maritime Security Group- NSCS).
      1. Narcotics Control Bureau in association with Interoperable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) has created a portal called National Integrated Database About Arrested NDPS Offenders (NIDAAN).
      1. Towards the capacity building of drug law enforcement agencies of the country, Narcotics Control Bureau is continuously imparting training to the officers of other  drug law enforcement agencies.

    A National Narcotics Helpline “Madak-Padarth Nished Asoochana Kendra” (MANAS) has been created as a 24×7, toll-free number – 1933 National Narcotics Call Centre. Accordingly, MANAS has been envisioned as an integrated system providing a single platform for citizens to log, register, track and resolve drug related issues/ problems through various mode of communications like call, SMS, Chat-bot, email & web-link. It has also been integrated with Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) Helpline No.-14446. It has features like 24×7 calls via Toll-free Number, Web-Portal, email, and Mobile App under UMANG. All the information provided by the citizens on MANAS Helpline is kept confidential. In addition to this ANTF of States have been integrated with MANAS for better coordination.

    Government has formulated and implemented the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) under which the Government is taking a sustained and coordinated action for arresting the problem of substance abuse among the youth across the country. This includes:

      1. Launching of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) in 272 identified most vulnerable  districts, later on extended to all districts of the country. So far NMBA has reached out to more than 14.07 crore people including 4.90 crore youth and 2.93 crore women.
      1. 350 Integrated Rehabilitation Centers for Addicts (IRCAs), 46 Community based Peer Led Intervention (CPLI) Centers, 74 Outreach and Drop in Centers (ODICs), 124 District De-addiction Centres (DDACs) and 125 Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs) are supported by the Government.
      1. A Toll-free Helpline No.–14446 for de-addiction is being maintained by the Government for providing primary counseling and immediate assistance to persons seeking help.
      1. Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed with Spiritual organizations like – The Art of Living, Brahma Kumaris, Sant Nirankari Mission, ISKCON, Shri Ram Chandra Mission and All World Gayatri Pariwar, to support NMBA and conduct mass awareness activities.
      1. Awareness is also being spread through official Social Media accounts of the Abhiyaan on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.
      1. A mass pledge/oath on NMBA was conducted on 12th August, 2024 and a total of about 3+ crore people from 2+ lakh institutions participated in the nationwide pledge.
      1. National/Regional Conferences under the Chairmanship of Union Home Minister are being held from time to time with the Hon’ble Governors/ Lieutenant Governors and Chief Ministers of States/UTs, wherein effective measures to curb illegal drug peddling and trading to their respective district level are discussed.

    This was stated by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Shri Nityanand Rai, in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha.

    ******

    RK/VV/ASH/PR/PS/1343

    (Release ID: 2101651) Visitor Counter : 17

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: HackerRank Introduces New Benchmark to Assess Advanced AI Models

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CUPERTINO, Calif., Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HackerRank, the Developer Skills Company, today introduced its new ASTRA Benchmark. ASTRA, which stands for Assessment of Software Tasks in Real-World Applications, is designed to evaluate the capabilities of advanced AI models, such as ChatGPT, Claude or Gemini, to perform tasks across the entire software development lifecycle.

    The ASTRA Benchmark consists of multi-file, project-based problems designed to mimic real-world coding tasks. The intent of the HackerRank ASTRA Benchmark is to determine the correctness and consistency of an AI model’s coding ability in relation to practical applications.

    “With the ASTRA Benchmark, we’re setting a new standard for evaluating AI models,” said Vivek Ravisankar, co-founder and CEO of HackerRank. “As software development becomes more human + AI, it’s important that we have a very good understanding of the combined abilities. Our experience pioneering the market in assessing software development skills makes us uniquely qualified to assess the abilities of AI models acting as agents for software developers.”

    A key highlight from the benchmark showed o1 from OpenAI was the top performer, but Claude- -3.5-sonnet produced more consistent results.

    Key features of ASTRA Benchmark include:

    • Diverse skill domains: The current version includes 65 project-based coding questions, primarily focused on front-end development. These questions are categorized into 10 primary coding skill domains and 34 subcategories.
    • Multi-file project questions: To mimic real-world development, ASTRA’s dataset includes an average of 12 source code and configuration files per question as model inputs. This results in an average of 61 lines of solution code per question.
    • Model correctness and consistency evaluation: To provide a more precise assessment, ASTRA prioritizes comprehensive metrics such as average scores, average pass@1 and median standard deviation.
    • Wide test case coverage: ASTRA’s dataset contains an average of 6.7 test cases per question, designed to rigorously evaluate the correctness of implementations.
    • Benchmark Results: For a full report and analysis of the initial benchmark results, please visit hackerrank.com/ai/astra.

    Ravisankar added, “By open sourcing our ASTRA Benchmark, we’re offering the AI community the opportunity to run their models against a high-quality, independent benchmark. This supports the continued advancement of AI while fostering more collaboration and transparency in the AI community to ensure the integrity of new models.”

    For more information about HackerRank’s ASTRA Benchmark, contact rafik@hackerrank.com.

    About HackerRank
    HackerRank, the Developer Skills Company, leads the market with over 2,500 customers and a community of over 25 million developers. Having pioneered this space, companies trust HackerRank to help them set up a skills strategy, showcase their brand to developers, implement a skills-based hiring process, and ultimately upskill and certify employees…all driven by AI. Learn more at hackerrank.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NIH study finds infection-related hospitalizations linked to increased risk of heart failure

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    News Release

    Tuesday, February 11, 2025

    Findings highlight the importance of infection prevention measures and personalized heart failure care.

    A study funded by the National Institutes of Health has found that adults who were hospitalized for a severe infection, such as respiratory infections or sepsis, were more than twice as likely to develop heart failure years later. The findings, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, underscore the importance of measures that help prevent severe infections, such as getting up-to-date vaccines and practicing safe hygiene.

    “These are ‘sit-up and take notice’ findings,” said Sean Coady, M.A., deputy branch chief in the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences at the NIH’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. “While there’s already a reasonable body of evidence linking previous infections with heart attack, this study is focused on heart failure, which has been less studied yet affects an estimated six million Americans.”

    The study, part of the NHLBI-funded Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study, followed 14,468 adults aged 45-64 for up to 31 years, from 1987 to 2018. None had heart failure when the study began. The researchers found that individuals who experienced an infection-related hospitalization had a 2.35 times higher risk of developing heart failure at an average time of seven years after surviving the hospitalization, compared to those who did not get an infection. The researchers adjusted for sociodemographic and health-related factors and included different infection types, such as respiratory, urinary tract infections, and hospital-acquired in their assessment. They found that the association with heart failure was consistent no matter the type of infection.

    Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to the body’s organs and tissues. While there are many different kinds, the study focused mainly on heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), which occurs when the left side of the heart is too stiff to fully relax between heartbeats, and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), which occurs when the left ventricle is too weak to pump out enough blood to the body. The researchers discovered that infections that required hospitalization were associated with an increased risk of both conditions. Notably, the risk was nearly three times higher for HFpEF, the most common form of heart failure among people over age 65 and the one with the most limited treatment options. Nearly half of participants experienced an infection-related hospitalization emphasizing the potentially large impact of severe infections on the heart health of older adults.

    While the study only found an association between severe infections and heart failure – not a causal link – Ryan Demmer, Ph.D. professor of epidemiology at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. and the study’s senior author, said patients still should consider commonsense approaches that keep severe infections at bay. He explained that someone who experiences an infection and are at high risk for cardiovascular disease should speak with their primary care provider to be sure they are receiving guideline directed medical therapies for cardiovascular disease.

    Demmer said future research could build on the current findings by validating a causal link between infections and heart failure development. New research could also explore the potential for incorporating infection history into heart failure risk assessments and patient management strategies.

    About the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI): NHLBI is the global leader in conducting and supporting research in heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders that advances scientific knowledge, improves public health, and saves lives. For more information, visit www.nhlbi.nih.gov.

    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.

    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®

    Reference

    Molinsky RL, Shah A, Yuzefpolskaya M. Infection-Related Hospitalization and Incident Heart Failure: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study. Journal of the American Heart Association. 2025. DOI: 10.1161/JAHA.123.033877R

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scientific approaches to reduce methane emissions from farm animals

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    In November 2024, a social media storm saw people posting videos of themselves pouring milk down their sinks citing food safety fears. The health scare went viral after an announcement by Arla that they were trialling a new animal feed additive called Bovaer, which is scientifically proven to reduce methane in farm animals. What should have been a good news story about how science and innovation can help agriculture to get to net zero very quickly turned into a health scare complete with conspiracy theories about Bill Gates trying to poison us.

    In fact adding additives to animal feed is just one of a myriad of exciting new science and innovation ideas in the works exploring different approaches to reducing methane emissions from farm animals. This Background Briefing will bring in experts across the agricultural field to explain the science behind some of these techniques, which include genetic breeding approaches, vaccine candidates and ways to alter the ruminant microbiome as well as the feed additives. The FSA’s Chief Scientist will also be with us to answer any remaining questions around Bovaer and the systems in place to test for the safety of dairy products.

    Irish and UK based journalists came to this SMC briefing to hear the science behind some of these approaches.

    Speakers included:

    Prof Robin May, Chief Scientific Advisor, Food Standards Agency (FSA)

    Prof Chris Reynolds, Professor of Animal & Dairy Science, University of Reading

    Prof Richard Dewhurst, Professor of Ruminant Nutrition & Production Systems and Head of the Dairy Research Centre, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC)

    Prof John Hammond, Director of Research, The Pirbright Institute

    Dr Sinead Waters, Senior Researcher in Host Microbiome Interactions, University of Galway

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What are physician assistants? Can they fix the doctor shortage?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa Nissen, HERA Program Director – Health Workforce Optimisation Centre for the Business & Economics of Health, The University of Queensland

    Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

    If you’ve tried to get an appointment to see a GP or specialist recently, you will likely have felt the impact of Australia’s doctor shortages.

    To alleviate workforce shortages, the Queensland government is considering introducing health workers called physician assistants more widely to the state’s health system.

    But the medical body representing physicians, the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, has warned thorough consultation with medical experts is needed first.

    So what exactly are physician assistants? And are they the solution to our workforce issues we’ve been looking for? Let’s look at what the evidence says – and the lessons from abroad.

    What is a physician assistant?

    Physician assistants, also known as physician associates, are trained health professionals who work under the supervision of a doctor. They undertake a variety of tasks including:

    • examining patients
    • ordering and interpreting blood tests
    • assisting in surgery
    • prescribing medicines.

    In general practice, physician assistants may also provide preventative health care such as giving vaccinations and providing health advice.

    Physician assistants commonly complete postgraduate-level university education and a hands-on training program. They may also need to have completed a health-based undergraduate degree.

    In most countries, physician assistants work under a “delegation” model. This means the treating doctor and physician assistant together determine the tasks the physician assistant can undertake, depending on their competence. As their skills and knowledge increase, the level of supervision changes accordingly.

    When were they first used?

    Similar roles have been used throughout history, including in the military. As early as the 1800s, trained assistants known as feldshers (or feldschers) provided basic medical care during times of war, for example in Russia, Bulgaria and Poland.

    The contemporary physician assistant role evolved in the 1960s in the United States. It was initially designed to use the skills of medically trained military servicemen.

    The first physician assistants were military servicemen.
    Andy Gin/Shutterstock

    Since then, it has become an accepted and well established part of the health care team in the US, where the medical profession supports the physician assistant role and contributes to its regulation.

    There are currently more than 178,000 physician assistants practising in the US, across a wide range of settings. Around one-quarter work in family/general medicine and one-fifth in rural and medically under-served areas.

    Physician assistants can be found in many countries, including Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands.

    Australia previously trialled physician assistant in two states, Queensland and South Australia. Like other countries, the role was found to be effective and acceptable.

    What does the research say about their use?

    Most research about physician assistants originates from the US. Studies spanning several decades show physician assistants provide safe and appropriate care. They can competently undertake consultations, perform complex procedures, provide preventative health care, treat non-complex patients in the emergency department and provide a wide range of services in rural areas.

    Most studies have reported patient satisfaction with the physician assistant role.

    Research has found it’s cost-effective to use physician assistants, including for complex patients.

    Physician assistants can improve the continuity of patient care in hospitals, as they remain with their supervising doctor rather than moving between hospital areas as trainee doctors do. This enables them to maintain consistent contact with patients, their families and other members of the health-care team.

    Using physician assistants in emergency departments enables doctors to review more complex patients.

    In surgery, physician assistants can reduce the workload on resident doctors. They can prepare patients for surgery, review them afterwards and perform some surgical procedures. They can also reduce the time patients stay in hospital.

    Physician assistants can also provide care in rural and remote areas and have worked with Aboriginal health workers in remote areas of Australia.

    What do Australian policymakers need to consider?

    Like many other countries, the Australian health workforce is under pressure. Recent reviews have highlighted the need to examine how the health system and workforce can more effectively meet the needs of the community. This includes making better use of all current health professions by enabling them to perform the tasks they have been trained to do.

    Health professionals must ensure their care keeps patients safe and aligns with public expectations. This relies on appropriate education and training, funding and payment policies, governance and regulation. Effective regulation ensures health professionals are held accountable for their practice, according to defined professional practice expectations.

    Despite physician assistants being trialled in Queensland and SA, the role did not gain the support of the medical profession. As a result, only a small number of physician assistants are currently practising. And Australia no longer provides education programs for physician assistants.

    Several factors affected the acceptance of the physician assistant role.

    Their skills and competence weren’t widely understood or recognised. This meant their scope of practice was poorly defined, which may have been confusing for both patients and health professionals.

    The profession was also unable to access Medicare rebates or Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme subsidies for patient consultations or scripts. This limited their full involvement in some health services such as general practice.

    What could we do better?

    Australia needs to learn from the available evidence when considering a possible role for physician assistants.

    In the US and Canada, for example, a close relationship between the medical and physician assistant professions has provided guidance and support for the role, and ensured physician assistants are accountable for their practice, through the development of “expected standards” of practice.

    As demand for health services increases, it makes sense to explore the addition of physician assistants to Australia’s health-care workforce, if safety and quality can be assured, and health care teams function optimally.

    Lisa Nissen receives funding from the Commonwealth Department and Aging and jurisdictional health departments for research related to Health Workforce Optimization and team based care.

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

    – ref. What are physician assistants? Can they fix the doctor shortage? – https://theconversation.com/what-are-physician-assistants-can-they-fix-the-doctor-shortage-247560

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Covid strategies ‘fell short’ for Pacific people, research finds – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

    Research on the impacts of Covid-19 highlights high death rates among Pacific people in Aotearoa and the need to provide better support in the future.

    A report has just been publicly released – Pacific contribution to the New Zealand COVID-19 response – Strengths, Weaknesses and Missed Opportunities.

    It notes that despite the overall success of New Zealand’s response to Covid, Pacific people were hard hit and the response failed to target their needs adequately, says research lead, Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga, co-director of Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa – Centre for Pacific and Global Health at the University of Auckland.

    “Despite clear and consistent evidence related to the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on Pacific communities, the national response fell short of engaging with Pacific leaders, instead adopting a generic ‘one size fits all’ approach,” the report states.

    Pacific people were twice as likely to be hospitalised with Covid as non-Pacific and non-Māori in Aotearoa, according to the research, which was funded by the Ministry of Health and carried out by the Centre for Pacific and Global Health and two Pacific health and social service providers, the Pasifika Medical Association and the Fono.

    A far higher percentage of Pacific people aged under 80 died within 28 days of being reported as a case, than those aged under 80 in other ethnic groups. Of the people aged under 59 years who died within 28 days of being reported as a case, 20 percent were Pacific, compared to eight percent of those categorised as European/other ethnicities of the same age.

    The experiences of 147 Pacific people were gathered for the report, which states the virus and ensuing lockdowns took a significant toll on the mental health of all the participants.

    Media coverage named a Pacific church as central to a large Covid cluster in August 2021, fuelling “racist vilification” of the Sāmoan community, stigma and discrimination, the report says.

    “Government officials, media and Pacific community leaders need to collaborate closely and quickly to prevent similar occurrences of racism from media reports for future pandemics,” it states.

    Many Pacific people were essential workers, who experienced fear and anxiety of the virus, in addition to racism.

    The challenges of lockdowns and self-isolation were exacerbated for many Pacific families living in multi-generational households.

    “The findings from the Covid-19 global pandemic emphasise the existing socioeconomic disparities, such as overcrowded living conditions, high rates of co-morbidities, and delayed access to healthcare, contributing to the disproportionate impact on Pacific and Māori communities.

    “Recognising and addressing these structural inequalities are essential components of any comprehensive public health strategy aimed at mitigating the impact of pandemics on vulnerable populations,” the report states.

    About 28 percent of Pacific peoples felt they couldn’t access mental health support during alert levels two, three and four, and 26 percent felt they could not access healthcare.

    The report recommends that in the future, Pacific health services be given clear guidelines as soon as possible, so they can begin outreach work with Pacific communities and ensure patients still receive healthcare for long-term conditions.

    It recommends reviewing policies on hospital visitors, because these were the most challenging of all protective measures for Pacific families.

    Plans should enable Pacific communities to establish testing and vaccination centres at the beginning of an outbreak and factor in mental health impacts.

    The importance of the church in offering guidance, combating misinformation and offering social support during a pandemic is highlighted in the reports.

    While vaccine uptake was initially slow among Pacific people, 95 percent were fully vaccinated by December 2021. About 68 percent of the participants said caring for family motivated their decision to get vaccinated.

    Pacific households faced disproportionate economic hardship during 2020 compared to the general population, with 18 percent of households losing half of their income or more.

    Education also suffered, as online learning replaced classroom teaching. The research found 20 percent of Pacific students did not have or did not know if they had access to a device at home for distance learning.

    “Long-term impacts of loss in learning and disengagement from school require further investigation,” the report states.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: BioAstra Unveils “Twin Astra”: Pioneering Deep-Space Medical Research Program Set to Transform Space Exploration and Earth-Based Medicine

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BioAstra, a pioneering force in space medicine and biotechnology, is set to revolutionize human health with the launch of Twin Astra—a first-of-its-kind deep-space research initiative poised to transform space exploration and medical advancements on Earth.

    The program will be officially unveiled on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at The Explorers Club in New York City, bringing together top minds in space, science, and biotechnology.

    About Twin Astra

    Twin Astra is designed to unlock critical insights into human health through space-based research, driving breakthroughs that will impact both astronauts and Earth-based medicine. The program focuses on:

    • Twin Studies in Space: By studying genetically identical twins—one on Earth, the other in space—scientists will map the molecular, genetic, and physiological shifts caused by space travel.
    • Medical Breakthroughs: This research will accelerate advancements in precision medicine, aging, cancer treatment, and regenerative therapies.
    • Space Exploration & Human Resilience: The findings will pave the way for safer, long-duration space missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

    “By harnessing space as a biomedical testing ground, Twin Astra will redefine our understanding of human resilience in extreme environments,” said Professor Chris Mason, BioAstra Board Chair. “This research is crucial for protecting astronauts and unlocking medical discoveries that will benefit life on Earth and beyond.”

    Launch Event: February 20, 2025

    This exclusive gathering will unite astronauts, biotech leaders, philanthropists, investors, and innovators to explore the program’s groundbreaking potential.

    “Twin Astra represents the next frontier of biomedical discovery,” said Savi Glowe, BioAstra CEO. “By pushing the limits of human biology in space, we are opening doors to new treatments, technologies, and insights that will redefine healthcare for generations to come.”

    Event Highlights:

    • Speakers:
      • Dr. Sian Proctor, Inspiration4 Astronaut
      • John Shoffner, Axiom-2 Astronaut
      • Savi Glowe, BioAstra CEO
      • Professor Chris Mason, BioAstra Board Chair & Renowned Genomics Expert

    Event Details:

    Be part of this landmark event, where astronauts, investors, biotech leaders, and medical innovators will unveil Twin Astra’s bold vision.

    Limited seats available – RSVP today.

    Date: Thursday, February 20
    Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
    Location: The Explorers Club, 46 East 70th Street, New York

    RSVP Required: michal@bioastra.org
    Investor Inquiries: michal@bioastra.org
    Website: www.bioastra.org

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Largest autopsy-based study on COVID-19 vaccines – E-002597/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. As the Commission noted in its reply to Question E-003117/2023[1], ‘the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and national authorities evaluate data on reported events in EudraVigilance[2] to determine if there is any signal indicating causality and take action as appropriate’. EMA and national authorities closely monitor emerging data and will take regulatory action if new evidence indicates any causal relationship.

    2. The Commission relies on EMA to continuously monitor the COVID-19 vaccine safety assessing all available data, including EudraVigilance reports, scientific literature, and studies[3]. EMA has reviewed the study mentioned in the Honourable Member’s letter and concluded that, given the methodological limitations of the study- which was withdrawn from a scientific journal because of serious concerns about its quality- considers no action necessary at this stage.

    3. The Commission considers safety a core requirement for all vaccines. COVID-19 vaccines used in the EU have undergone EMA’s rigorous scientific assessment. Information on risks, including rare side effects, are publicly available in resources such as product information[4], the European Public Assessment Reports[5], and periodic safety update reports (PSURs)[6], which are regularly updated to keep healthcare professionals and patients informed. When necessary to ensure vaccine safety regulatory actions are taken in accordance with the applicable legislation.

    • [1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-9-2023-003117-ASW_EN.html
    • [2] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/research-development/pharmacovigilance-research-development/eudravigilance
    • [3] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/marketing-authorisation/pharmacovigilance-marketing-authorisation/risk-management/risk-management-plans
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/health/documents/community-register/html/index_en.htm
    • [5] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/what-we-publish-medicines-when/european-public-assessment-reports-background-context
    • [6] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/post-authorisation/pharmacovigilance-post-authorisation/periodic-safety-update-reports-psurs
    Last updated: 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Competition among protein-based COVID-19 vaccines – E-002695/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The availability of COVID-19 protein-based vaccines is primarily determined by clinical development priorities of vaccine developers. Neither the Commission nor the European Medicines Agency (EMA) have control over this aspect.

    EU regulators, including EMA, assess the scientific evidence submitted by developers in the context of a marketing authorisation application.

    While they can provide guidance on vaccines development, the actual production of such products ultimately depends on the companies developing them.

    As regards COVID-19 vaccines, Comirnaty and Spikevax (mRNA-based) and Nuvaxovid and Bimervax (protein-based) are authorised in the EU.

    For the autumn 2024 COVID-19 vaccination campaigns, EMA issued a statement[1] and the Commission authorised adapted mRNA vaccines (Comirnaty JN.1, Comirnaty KP.2 and Spikevax JN.1) and an adapted protein-based vaccine (Nuvaxovid JN.1).

    EMA is currently assessing an adapted Bimervax vaccine (JN.1). Overall, these vaccines are expected to also cover the emerging XEC variant.

    In principle, the Commission supports the availability of any type of COVID-19 vaccine following EMA’s recommendation on approval[2]. Vaccination policy is a national competence, and the Commission supports EU countries in coordinating their policies and programmes.

    In July 2024, the Commission and 15 countries launched a call for tender for the supply of protein-based COVID-19 vaccines under the Joint Procurement Agreement[3], offering an alternative option to citizens who cannot or do not want to receive a mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.

    This call for tender targets producers of protein-based COVID-19 vaccines authorised for use in the EU. More information will be available after the closure of the procedure.

    • [1] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/other/ema-confirms-its-recommendation-update-antigenic-composition-authorised-covid-19-vaccines-2024-2025_en.pdf
    • [2] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/public-health-threats/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-19-medicines
    • [3] https://health.ec.europa.eu/health-security-and-infectious-diseases/preparedness-and-response-planning_en#joint-procurement-of-medical-countermeasures-ensuring-proper-preparedness

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today launched India’s first indigenous Automated Bio Medical Waste Treatment Plant at AIIMS New Delhi.

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today launched India’s first indigenous Automated Bio Medical Waste Treatment Plant at AIIMS New Delhi.

    The Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Rig, named “Sṛjanam,” was officially dedicated to the nation:

    1st of its kind indigenously developed Automated Bio Medical Waste Treatment Rig has been developed by CSIR NIIST Thiruvananthapuram:

    “India’s New Eco-Friendly Technology Biomedical Waste Solution Set to Transform Healthcare Waste Disposal” says Science and Technology Minister Dr. Singh

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Showcases Govt’s First 100 Days Vision with Record-Breaking Investments in Science and Technology

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 6:12PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today launched India’s first indigenous Automated Bio Medical Waste Treatment Plant at AIIMS New Delhi.

    The Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Rig, named “Sṛjanam,” was officially dedicated to the nation by the Minister at a ceremony held in the AIIMS auditorium. Following the ceremony, he, accompanied by Director General of CSIR Dr. N. Kalaiselvi and Director of AIIMS Dr. M. Srinivas, walked to the site within the AIIMS premises where the machinery had been installed and formally switched it on.

    This innovative, environmentally friendly technology, developed by CSIR-NIIST (National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology), offers a significant advancement in the sustainable management of biomedical waste.

    Speaking on the Commissioning, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh called for a paradigm shift from ‘Waste to Wealth’ and emphasized the importance of sustainability and environmental concerns. He noted that India’s economy has transitioned from being part of the fragile five to a member of the First Five and is poised for continued growth. He highlighted the significance of the new biomedical waste treatment rig, which is set to revolutionize waste management in healthcare facilities.

    The “Sṛjanam” rig can disinfect pathogenic biomedical waste such as blood, urine, sputum, and laboratory disposables, without the use of costly and energy-intensive incinerators. Additionally, the rig imparts a pleasant fragrance to the otherwise foul-smelling toxic waste. With a daily capacity of 400 kg, the equipment is capable of handling 10 kg of degradable medical waste per day in the initial phase. Once validated, this technology will be ready for full-scale implementation after receiving approval from relevant authorities.

    With the growing demand for better waste disposal solutions, the “Sṛjanam” rig offers a safer and more efficient approach, eliminating the risks associated with human exposure to harmful waste and minimizing the chances of spills and accidents. The technology has been third-party validated for its antimicrobial action, and studies have shown that the treated material is safer than organic fertilizers like vermicompost.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded CSIR-NIIST for its innovative and cost-effective solution to dispose of pathogenic biomedical waste in an eco-friendly manner. He referenced the 2023 annual report of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which indicated that India generates 743 tonnes of biomedical waste daily, presenting a significant challenge in its safe and proper disposal. The new technology addresses this issue and presents an environmentally responsible alternative to traditional incineration methods.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh further explained that improper segregation, open dumping, open burning, and inadequate incineration of biomedical waste lead to severe health hazards, including the release of carcinogens and particulate matter. He emphasized the need for effective waste management to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also acknowledged the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose leadership continues to drive India’s progress in science, technology, and green initiatives. He praised Shri. Tanmay Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC), for his prompt actions in securing the necessary clearances for this project.

    In his address, Dr. Singh mentioned other technological milestones achieved by India, including the first indigenous DNA vaccine, the development of India’s first HPV vaccine to combat cervical cancer, and rapid advancements in space technology. He also highlighted India’s breakthrough in pharmaceuticals with the creation of the indigenous antibiotic ‘Nafithromycin’ and India’s first gene therapy trial for hemophilia, supported by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).

    Vice-President of CSIR, Dr. Jitendra Singh, recalled the ‘One Week One Lab’ initiative, which aims to raise awareness about CSIR’s groundbreaking projects, such as the first hydrogen buses developed by NCL Pune, off-season tulips developed by CSIR Palampur, the 108-petal lotus, and more.

    The Science and Technology Minister also emphasized the priorities of the government during its first 100 days, which include the approval of India’s first Bio E3 policy, the sanctioning of 1000 crores for Viability Gap funding for space startups, 2000 crores for Mission Mausam, and 50,000 crores for the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF). Furthermore, he highlighted the recent Union Budget, which proposes 20,000 crores for Bharat Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

    Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded by urging for increased academic collaboration between institutions and proposed making postgraduate students co-guides in exchange programs, fostering synergy and shared learning. He emphasized the government’s unwavering support for science, technology, and innovation under the leadership of PM Modi. He said “This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, and with continued progress in innovation and sustainable technologies, India is set to become a global leader in environmental and healthcare solutions”.

    The ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries including Dr. V. K. Paul, Member, Niti Aayog, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, DHR and DG, ICMR, Tanmay Kumar IAS, Secretary MoEFCC, Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary DSIR and DG, CSIR, and Dr. M. Srinivas, Director, AIIMS.

    *****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2101416) Visitor Counter : 50

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: EMGS reports fourth quarter 2024 results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Electromagnetic Geoservices ASA’s (“EMGS” or the “Company”) financial report and market presentation for the fourth quarter of 2024 are attached.

    Summary:

    * The Company recorded revenues of USD 9.7 million, up from USD 1.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2023.

    * Adjusted EBITDA (including capitalised multi-client expenses and vessel and office lease expenses) of USD 7.9 million, up from negative USD 1.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2023.

    * Free cash decreased with USD 4.1 million during the quarter, to USD 9.1 million.

    A pre-recorded presentation will be available over the internet from 20:00 (local time Norway) today. To access the presentation, please go to the Company’s homepage (www.emgs.com) and follow the link.

    Contact
    Anders Eimstad, Chief Financial Officer, +47 94 82 58 36

    About EMGS
    EMGS, the marine EM market leader, uses its proprietary electromagnetic (EM) technology to support oil and gas companies in their search for offshore hydrocarbons. EMGS supports each stage in the workflow, from survey design and data acquisition to processing and interpretation. The Company’s services enable the integration of EM data with seismic and other geophysical and geological information to give explorationists a clearer and more complete understanding of the subsurface. This improves exploration efficiency and reduces risks and the finding costs per barrel. CSEM technology can also be used to detect the presence of marine mineral deposits (primarily Seabed Massive Sulphides) and EMGS believes that the technology can also be used to estimate the mineral content of such deposits. The Company is undertaking early-stage initiatives to position itself in this future market.

    This information is subject of the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: February 10th, 2025 Heinrich Pushes USDA Nominee to Address Rising Cost of Eggs Driven by Avian Flu Outbreak

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) today pushed the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary-designee Brooke Rollins to share her plan to address the rising cost of eggs driven by the ongoing highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI or H5N1) outbreak. Heinrich points to tools, such as HPAI vaccines, that the USDA could develop and deploy to help tackle the outbreak and lower food prices. Under the Trump administration, the avian flu outbreak is stressing poultry and egg producers’ ability to make a living and forcing working families to pay more at the grocery store for eggs and poultry products.

    “As a U.S. Senator and member of the Appropriations Committee, my constituents have asked me to hold President Trump accountable for his promise to lower food prices for all Americans. The USDA has many tools at its disposal to combat rising prices, including HPAI vaccines. Vaccinating all laying hens in the United States against HPAI will help lower egg prices for consumers, decrease production losses for farmers, and ultimately decrease the cost to taxpayers through reduced indemnity payments,” Heinrich wrote.

    “I request that you respond in writing within two weeks with your plan to lower egg and poultry prices for consumers through vaccination efforts, while preserving export markets for American farmers,” Heinrich continued.

    Heinrich requested that Rollins answer the following questions:

    1. Plan to Lower Prices: “Please share in detail your plan to lower egg and poultry prices through vaccination efforts and other means, including a complete vaccination strategy, use case, and plan to procure, stockpile, distribute, deploy, administer, and track the use of poultry H5N1 vaccines.”
    2. Deployment Considerations: “What considerations need to be weighed while deploying H5N1 vaccinations to all laying hens in domestic egg production? Please provide specifics about how you propose to prioritize certain flocks or regions based on risk and export profile to maximize reductions in cost paid by American consumers for poultry and egg products?”
    3. Better Trade Agreements for American Farmers: “Once you have reviewed our poultry trade agreements in consultation with the US Trade Representative (USTR), please provide a plan that describes the actions the Administration will take to renegotiate trade agreements to permit the export of poultry and poultry products derived from birds that have been vaccinated.  American farmers who want to keep their livelihoods intact and prices affordable for American families will look to you and the USTR to quickly renegotiate important trade agreements to maintain and expand foreign markets.”
    4. USDA Research Plan: “What is your plan for the USDA research that is needed to best match vaccines to the current strain of the virus and to expand production and deployment of effective vaccinations for poultry against all currently circulating variants of H5N1?”
    5. Vaccination Logistics: “How will you handle the logistics and costs associated with vaccination as well as enhanced surveillance and monitoring of flocks in a way that lowers prices for the American consumer?”
    6. Budget: “What budget will you assign to the USDA’s efforts to manage the HPAI outbreak and lower egg and poultry prices for families, including through vaccination and other means?”

    The text of the letter is here and below:

    Dear Secretary-designee Rollins:

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plays a critical role in maintaining a safe, affordable food system for American families and in supporting robust domestic and foreign markets for American farmers.  As you acknowledged at your confirmation hearing, one of your top priorities is to quickly and thoroughly assess and manage the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI or H5N1) outbreak.  The current HPAI outbreak is stressing poultry and egg producers’ ability to make a living, stretching the USDA’s budget through increasing indemnity payments to depopulate farms, and forcing working families to pay more at the grocery store.  It is clear that the American tax payer and the American consumer are now paying twice for the same problem.  The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average price for a dozen large grade A eggs jumped by 65 percent in 2024, from $2.52 to $4.15. As of February 2025, prices are around $7 per carton and the USDA Economic Research Service predicts that egg prices will continue to rise in 2025.

    As a U.S. Senator and member of the Appropriations Committee, my constituents have asked me to hold President Trump accountable for his promise to lower food prices for all Americans.  The USDA has many tools at its disposal to combat rising prices, including HPAI vaccines.  Vaccinating all laying hens in the United States against HPAI will help lower egg prices for consumers, decrease production losses for farmers, and ultimately decrease the cost to taxpayers through reduced indemnity payments.  While there are some technical, logistic, and trade related obstacles to the widespread vaccination of U.S. poultry flocks, there is an emerging consensus within the producer community that such action is necessary and you are seeking to join an Administration that prides itself on extracting concessions from trading partners.  I request that you respond in writing within two weeks with your plan to lower egg and poultry prices for consumers through vaccination efforts, while preserving export markets for American farmers. Specifically, I would like your answers to the following questions:

    • Your Plan to Lower Prices: Please share in detail your plan to lower egg and poultry prices through vaccination efforts and other means, including a complete vaccination strategy, use case, and plan to procure, stockpile, distribute, deploy, administer, and track the use of poultry H5N1 vaccines.
    • Deployment Considerations: What considerations need to be weighed while deploying H5N1 vaccinations to all laying hens in domestic egg production? Please provide specifics about how you propose to prioritize certain flocks or regions based on risk and export profile to maximize reductions in cost paid by American consumers for poultry and egg products?
    • Better Trade Agreements for American Farmers: Once you have reviewed our poultry trade agreements in consultation with the US Trade Representative (USTR), please provide a plan that describes the actions the Administration will take to renegotiate trade agreements to permit the export of poultry and poultry products derived from birds that have been vaccinated.  American farmers who want to keep their livelihoods intact and prices affordable for American families will look to you and the USTR to quickly renegotiate important trade agreements to maintain and expand foreign markets.
    • USDA Research Plan: What is your plan for the USDA research that is needed to best match vaccines to the current strain of the virus and to expand production and deployment of effective vaccinations for poultry against all currently circulating variants of H5N1?
    • Vaccination Logistics: How will you handle the logistics and costs associated with vaccination as well as enhanced surveillance and monitoring of flocks in a way that lowers prices for the American consumer?
    • Budget: What budget will you assign to the USDA’s efforts to manage the HPAI outbreak and lower egg and poultry prices for families, including through vaccination and other means?

    I welcome your urgent attention to these questions. I look forward to learning more about your plan to bring down food prices for American families, support domestic producers, maintain export markets, and tackle this highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Tech titans surge while legacy giants stumble in 2024, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Tech titans surge while legacy giants stumble in 2024, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    The latest analysis of top market value gainers and losers has uncovered intriguing trends in the stock market. Notably, there is a significant surge in investor appetite for technology stocks, charting divergent market trajectories compared to other industries. During the evaluation period from 31 January 2024 to 31 January 2025, the top gainer in market value was Santa Clara-based GPU maker NVIDIA while the top loser was the Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco), reveals the Company Profiles Database of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company

    NVIDIA reportedly added a staggering $1.4 trillion to achieve a market capitalization of $2.9 trillion by the end of the review period. In stark contrast, Saudi Aramco witnessed its market value decline by $182.1 billion to reach $1.8 trillion.

    Murthy Grandhi, Company Profiles Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “NVIDIA’s explosive growth is largely attributed to its dominance in artificial intelligence (AI) chips, cloud computing, and data center expansion. As the primary supplier of AI GPUs, NVIDIA capitalized on the AI boom, securing massive contracts with cloud service providers and enterprises investing in machine learning.

    On the other side, Saudi Aramco witnessed a downturn in its stock value due to the ongoing global transition to renewable energy, lower demand from China, and the diminishing reliance on fossil fuels.

    Apple Inc, despite being the largest company by market value at $3.5 trillion, recorded a relatively modest growth of $697.8 billion. This highlights the challenges even tech giants face in maintaining exponential growth at such a massive scale.

    Grandhi continues: “Pharmaceutical companies, once considered recession-proof, have faced significant headwinds. Moderna Inc. saw its market value plummet to $15.2 billion, a decline of $23.4 billion, primarily due to the waning demand for COVID-19 vaccines and rising competition within the biotech sector. Denmark-based Novo Nordisk faced an $87.7 billion drop in valuation, attributed to regulatory scrutiny and intensifying competition in the weight-loss drug market. Meanwhile, Merck & Co., Inc. and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. experienced declines of $56.1 billion and $28.8 billion, respectively, as concerns over drug patent expirations and pricing pressures weighed on investor sentiment.”

    Samsung Electronics lost $114 billion in market cap due to weak consumer electronics demand and struggles to compete in the AI chip market. Intel shed $98 billion amid supply chain disruptions and intensifying competition. Adobe declined by $88.8 billion as software subscriptions slowed and AI-driven creative tools gained traction. AMD lost $82.7 billion due to softening semiconductor sales. ASML fell $37 billion, impacted by reduced chipmaker demand and the US sanctions restricting sales of advanced lithography equipment to China, limiting its access to one of its key markets.

    Grandhi concludes: “The coming months of 2025 will be highly volatile, driven by renewed tariff wars, interest rate cuts, and the divide between booming tech and struggling traditional industries. Geopolitical tensions, energy transitions, and inflation concerns will add uncertainty. While AI and renewables fuel investor optimism, supply chain disruptions and policy shifts pose risks. Businesses must embrace adaptability and diversification to navigate an unpredictable financial and economic landscape.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Engineering Boasts 9 National Academy of Inventors (NAI) Fellows

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    For people diagnosed with Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib, the upper chambers of the heart beat rapidly and irregularly, leading to poor blood flow. This can cause an increased risk of stroke, chronic fatigue, or heart failure.

    Professor of Biomedical Engineering Ki Chon was elected an NAI Fellow in 2020.

    Professor of Biomedical Engineering Ki Chon has devoted his entire career at UConn developing advanced computational methods—or algorithms—that can improve accurate detection of AFib and other heart diseases. He holds multiple patents for these algorithms, which help monitor heart activity in smartwatches and other wearable devices.

    For his life-saving innovations, Chon, who’s also a Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor and Krenicki Chair Professor, is recognized as a National Academy of Inventors (NAI) Fellow. He’s among 13 academic inventors at UConn “who have demonstrated a prolific spirit of innovation in creating or facilitating outstanding inventions that have made a tangible impact on quality of life, economic development and the welfare of society.”

    Election to NAI Fellow status is the highest professional distinction accorded solely to academic inventors.

    Chon and eight other UConn NAI Fellows are affiliated with the College of Engineering, including:

    • UConn’s 17th and current President Radenka Maric, Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor and Chair Professor in Sustainable Energy in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering, earned the NAI Fellowship in 2019. Maric has significantly advanced understanding of materials and catalysts and has developed innovative manufacturing processes involved in fuel cell technologies, storage materials, and electrochemical sensors for health applications, leading to higher-performance, commercially viable clean energy systems. She also has six issued patents and 11 published patent disclosures.
    • Ji-Cheng “JC” Zhao, dean of the College of Engineering and professor of materials science and engineering, received the NAI Fellowship in 2022. Zhao’s research focuses are on design of advanced alloys and coatings, additive manufacturing (3D printing) of alloys and composites, high-throughput materials science methodologies, determination of phase diagrams and other materials properties, computational thermodynamics and kinetics, and also hydrogen/energy storage materials. In addition to many materials innovations, he pioneered the development of a diffusion-multiple approach and co-developed several materials property microscopy tools for accelerated materials discovery and development. Zhao has 49 patents covering a wide range of materials, processes, and systems.
    • Dr. Cato Laurencin, Albert and Wilda Van Dusen Distinguished Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, professor of materials science and engineering, and professor of biomedical engineering, received the Fellowship in 2013 and was the first UConn faculty to become a NAI Fellow. He’s also a current member of the NAI’s Board of Directors and president of UConn’s NAI chapter. He has received the Connecticut Medal of Technology and Innovation, and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation in ceremonies at the White House. As Chief Executive Officer of the Cato T. Laurencin Institute on Regenerative Engineering and a practicing sports medicine and shoulder surgeon, Dr. Laurencin is known for being the pioneer of the field of regenerative engineering. He’s also produced seminal research and technologies on nanotechnology and tissue regeneration, polymer chemistry and polymeric materials science and engineering.
      Dr. Cato Laurencin is currently a member of the national selection committee for the National Academy of Inventors and serves as a resource to individuals interested in becoming Fellows at UConn. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)
    • Luyi Sun, professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, was awarded the Fellowship in 2021. Sun studies polymeric materials, ceramics and glasses, and composites with a focus on designing materials with unique structure for specific applications, such as packaging, energy, or catalysis.
    • Bahram Javidi, Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor and SNET Endowed Chair Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, received the NAI Fellowship in 2018. Javidi’s inventions are in a broad range of transformative imaging approaches using optics and photonics. He has made seminal inventions in passive and active multi-dimensional imaging from nano to micro and macro scales. His inventions include advanced 3D displays, 3D augmented reality devices, underwater sensing and imaging, multi-dimensional object recognition and classification, optics for security and authentication systems, field portable bio-sensors for automated disease identification, among others.
    • UConn’s 16th President Tom Katsouleas, professor of electrical and computer engineering, was named a NAI Fellow in 2020. He invented the Surfatron accelerator that uses electromagnetic waves to accelerate charged particles.
    • Steven Suib, director of the Institute of Materials Science, Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and graduate faculty member in Materials Science and Engineering, received the Fellowship in 2017. Suib, an inventor, holds more than 90 patents in the field of materials science, of which three are licensed. These patents are primarily for the synthesis of new compositions of matter of catalysts, ceramics, batteries, semiconductors, and other materials.
    • Lakshmi Nair, from UConn Health, received her Fellowship in 2016. She is an associate professor of orthopedic surgery and is also on the graduate faculty for Materials Science and Engineering Department. Nair studies biomaterial design and synthesis, protein and small molecule delivery, and using matrices to help with tissue regeneration.
      Lakshmi Nair, who serves on the graduate faculty for the Materials Science and Engineering Department, is vice president of UConn’s NAI Chapter.

    Other UConn faculty who are NAI Fellows include:

    Guillermo Risatti, from the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, is UConn’s most recent NAI Fellow. He received the award in 2024. Risatti, professor of pathobiology and veterinary science and director of UConn’s Connecticut Veterinary Diagnostic Medical Laboratory, was nominated to the NAI in recognition of his pioneering work in veterinary vaccine research. Most recently, he was a lead inventor on a new vaccine for African swine fever. Risatti currently holds 19 patents, all in the realm of veterinary vaccines.

    Dr. Se-Jin Lee, from UConn Health, earned the NAI Fellowship in 2015. Dr. Lee, Presidential Distinguished Professor of Genetics and Genome Sciences and a joint faculty appointment with The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, is an expert on reproductive health, particularly how various growth factors and signaling pathways impact health, aging, and disease.

    Dr. Pramod Srivastava from UConn Health, was named a Fellow in 2015. Dr. Srivastava, professor of immunology and the Eversource Energy Chair in Experimental Oncology, also served as director of the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center. He has earned international acclaim and holds many patents for his groundbreaking work in the immunological function of heat shock proteins and in cancer immunology.

    And Diane Burgess, from the School of Pharmacy, received the NAI Fellowship in 2023. Burgess, Pfizer Distinguished Chair of Pharmaceutical Technology and Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor of Pharmaceutics, studies drug delivery systems including implantable biosensors for glucose monitoring for diabetic patients.

    These 13 NAI Fellows are among 2,068 worldwide, representing more than 300 prestigious universities and governmental and non-profit research institutes. Collectively, the Fellows hold more than 68,000 issued U.S. patents, which have generated over 20,000 licensed technologies, 4,000 companies, and created more than 1.2 million jobs. In addition, over $3.2 trillion in revenue has been generated based on NAI Fellow discoveries.

    Among all NAI Fellows, there are 755 members of the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine; 63 inductees of the National Inventors Hall of Fame; 70 recipients of the U.S. National Medal of Technology and Innovation and U.S. National Medal of Science; and 57 Nobel Laureates, among other awards and distinctions.

    In addition to the elected NAI Fellows, the Academy also accepts NAI Senior Members, who may not reach the NAI Fellow criteria, but foster a spirit of innovation within their communities and institutions while educating and mentoring the next generation of inventors. Senior Members are active faculty, scientists, and administrators with success in patents, licensing, and commercialization and have produced technologies that have brought or aspire to bring, real impact on the welfare of society.

    Senior Members are nominated by their local NAI chapter. UConn’s NAI Chapter, NAI-UConn, is led by President Laurencin and Vice President Nair. NAI-UConn was established to promote scientific innovation across all disciplines in the UConn community.

    “As a group, we work to identify individuals who would make ideal Fellows and Senior Members by evaluating how they contribute to the ecosystem of inventorship,” Laurencin says. Laurencin is a member of the national selection committee for the National Academy of Inventors and serves as a resource to individuals interested in becoming Fellows.

    UConn currently has seven NAI Senior Members including:

    “Our inductees in the National Academy of Inventors confirm what we know to be true of UConn researchers and innovators,” says Pamir Alpay, UConn vice president for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. “From engineering to health care, UConn researchers are helping to improve lives and advance technology. Congratulations to all our members of this prestigious Academy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Healthcare in Africa on brink of crisis as US exits WHO and USAid freezes funds: health scholar explains why

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Catherine Kyobutungi, Executive Director, African Population and Health Research Center

    US president Donald Trump has taken a series of decisions that have delivered body blows to the global management of health. He has announced that the US will leave the World Health Organization. And a 90-day freeze has been placed on money distributed by the US Agency for International Development (USAid) pending a review by the US State Department. This includes funds for the President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar). The decisions have triggered alarm in the global health sector.

    Catherine Kyobutungi, executive director of the African Population and Health Research Center, outlines which countries are most at risk and which health programmes will suffer the most damage.

    What does the US exit mean for Africa?

    The US exit from the WHO and the freeze announced on USAid funding are devastating moves that will have drastic effects on the health of millions of people in Africa.

    The US is by far the WHO’s largest state donor, contributing approximately 18% of the agency’s total funding.

    US development aid is used to run large-scale health programmes on the continent. For example, Nigeria received approximately US$600 million in health assistance from the US, over 21% of the 2023 health budget.

    The WHO is a global health body that synthesises scientific research and develops guidelines that countries in Africa rely on to shape their own policies and practices.

    The biggest loss for Africa under the USAID umbrella will be funding for Pepfar, which is used for HIV-related programmes including prevention, testing and treatment. Through Pepfar, the US government has invested over US$110 billion in the global HIV/Aids response.



    Read more:
    WHO in Africa: three ways the continent stands to lose from Trump’s decision to pull out

    What’s going to be lost?

    A range of capabilities.

    Firstly, technical guidance. The WHO provides technical guidance to countries on issues ranging from TB management to cost-effective malaria control.

    Secondly, the ability to mobilise resources. The WHO has the mandate and mechanisms to assemble experts from across the globe to evaluate new therapeutics, diagnostics and vaccines. They can evaluate new evidence on emerging patterns of new bugs, resistance to current treatments, and so on.

    Thirdly, the WHO has tools and mechanisms that have been key to African countries’ health policy decisions. These include:

    • the WHO’s list of Essential Medicines to inform decision-making on critical drugs

    • a similar mechanism to evaluate new vaccines, resulting in guidance that makes regulatory approval faster and easier in African countries which don’t have strong systems.

    Fourth, the WHO also provides resources for emergency response, as in the event of disease outbreaks such as Ebola and COVID-19. The WHO is able to quickly mobilise experts and funds and to coordinate emergency responses.

    Fifth, the WHO provides evidence-informed guidelines. It does this by gathering and sharing information like the causes of outbreaks, while monitoring signals of potential outbreaks and coordinating efforts to develop new technologies, such as vaccines and medical devices.

    Sixth, the WHO’s ability to support critical programmes in tuberculosis prevention and emergency response will be reduced.

    Seventh, the withdrawal of US citizens working in these global agencies – and the orders to stop sharing data – mean the US is essentially excluded from global information-sharing mechanisms that keep us all safe. It will be harder to share information about emerging health threats in the US with the rest of the world and vice versa.

    Which countries will be most affected?

    Many African countries are heavily reliant on the support provided by Pepfar and USAID to fund programmes in the health sector and for humanitarian assistance.

    Countries which will be most affected are those with a high burden of HIV, TB and malaria and those with large populations of refugee and internally displaced people.

    Currently the top eight USAid recipients in Africa are: Nigeria, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, South Africa, Kenya, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Without funds being rapidly mobilised to fill the gap left by the US withdrawal, the effect on the health of millions of Africans is at stake. Failure to prevent new infections, and the threat of drug resistance developing because of disrupted treatment, will have far-reaching consequences.

    In Uganda, where about 1.4 million people are living with HIV/Aids, 60% of the spending on its HIV/Aids programme was from Pepfar, and about 20% from the Global Fund (partly funded from Pepfar).

    A drastic reduction in funding will be devastating for patients and the greater health system.

    The Pepfar programme, a lifeline for millions of Africans, has been under threat since before the most recent aid freeze. In 2024, the American congress only gave a one-year authorisation instead of the typical five-year funding authorisation.

    A conservative backlash against this programme has been growing for years with concerns that some funds may be used to fund abortion. The current authorisation expires in March 2025 and falls within the 90-day aid review period. With the current approval expiring next month, and in light of the current atmosphere, it is very likely that it may not be renewed.



    Read more:
    How US policy on abortion affects women in Africa

    What steps should African countries be taking?

    There has a been a lot of discussion around jobs and lives lost, but not much around what happens next: how African governments are planning on mitigating shortfalls in their health budget in the short term and foreseeable future.

    Therefore we need to ask our governments what that means for us and how they are planning to ensure that we do not reverse the gains made so far. This includes preventing millions of HIV infections, improved testing and provision of life-saving antiretroviral treatment.

    The sudden and drastic decisions taken by the Trump administration have been hailed by several commentators as the wake-up call the continent needs – to wean itself off dependency on a flawed “development aid” system that is admittedly a tool for geopolitical influence.



    Read more:
    US health funding cuts: what Nigeria stands to lose

    The disbelief and chaos in the global health sector should be rapidly mobilised into citizen action, for governments to invest in a critical sector that has depended on foreign assistance for too long. In the absence of sustained investment, the gains in the health sector may be lost, reversing decades of progress in global health.

    Lastly, Africans, especially scientists and academics, need to stand up to the worrying anti-science trend that underlies some of these drastic policies. The growing mistrust in science and scientific institutions will not abate unless it is challenged.

    It is ridiculous that a continent of 1.3 billion people is reliant on the whims of one man many kilometres away; on his signature on a single document.

    The world needs to wake up. We need to wake up.

    Catherine Kyobutungi works for the African Population and Health Research Center which receives funding from the National Institutes of Health, Wellcome, and the Gates Foundation

    – ref. Healthcare in Africa on brink of crisis as US exits WHO and USAid freezes funds: health scholar explains why – https://theconversation.com/healthcare-in-africa-on-brink-of-crisis-as-us-exits-who-and-usaid-freezes-funds-health-scholar-explains-why-248906

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Healthcare in Africa on brink of crisis as US exits WHO and USAid freezes funds: health scholar explains why

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Catherine Kyobutungi, Executive Director, African Population and Health Research Center

    US president Donald Trump has taken a series of decisions that have delivered body blows to the global management of health. He has announced that the US will leave the World Health Organization. And a 90-day freeze has been placed on money distributed by the US Agency for International Development (USAid) pending a review by the US State Department. This includes funds for the President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar). The decisions have triggered alarm in the global health sector.

    Catherine Kyobutungi, executive director of the African Population and Health Research Center, outlines which countries are most at risk and which health programmes will suffer the most damage.

    What does the US exit mean for Africa?

    The US exit from the WHO and the freeze announced on USAid funding are devastating moves that will have drastic effects on the health of millions of people in Africa.

    The US is by far the WHO’s largest state donor, contributing approximately 18% of the agency’s total funding.

    US development aid is used to run large-scale health programmes on the continent. For example, Nigeria received approximately US$600 million in health assistance from the US, over 21% of the 2023 health budget.

    The WHO is a global health body that synthesises scientific research and develops guidelines that countries in Africa rely on to shape their own policies and practices.

    The biggest loss for Africa under the USAID umbrella will be funding for Pepfar, which is used for HIV-related programmes including prevention, testing and treatment. Through Pepfar, the US government has invested over US$110 billion in the global HIV/Aids response.

    Read more: WHO in Africa: three ways the continent stands to lose from Trump’s decision to pull out

    What’s going to be lost?

    A range of capabilities.

    Firstly, technical guidance. The WHO provides technical guidance to countries on issues ranging from TB management to cost-effective malaria control.

    Secondly, the ability to mobilise resources. The WHO has the mandate and mechanisms to assemble experts from across the globe to evaluate new therapeutics, diagnostics and vaccines. They can evaluate new evidence on emerging patterns of new bugs, resistance to current treatments, and so on.

    Thirdly, the WHO has tools and mechanisms that have been key to African countries’ health policy decisions. These include:

    • the WHO’s list of Essential Medicines to inform decision-making on critical drugs

    • a similar mechanism to evaluate new vaccines, resulting in guidance that makes regulatory approval faster and easier in African countries which don’t have strong systems.

    Fourth, the WHO also provides resources for emergency response, as in the event of disease outbreaks such as Ebola and COVID-19. The WHO is able to quickly mobilise experts and funds and to coordinate emergency responses.

    Fifth, the WHO provides evidence-informed guidelines. It does this by gathering and sharing information like the causes of outbreaks, while monitoring signals of potential outbreaks and coordinating efforts to develop new technologies, such as vaccines and medical devices.

    Sixth, the WHO’s ability to support critical programmes in tuberculosis prevention and emergency response will be reduced.

    Seventh, the withdrawal of US citizens working in these global agencies – and the orders to stop sharing data – mean the US is essentially excluded from global information-sharing mechanisms that keep us all safe. It will be harder to share information about emerging health threats in the US with the rest of the world and vice versa.

    Which countries will be most affected?

    Many African countries are heavily reliant on the support provided by Pepfar and USAID to fund programmes in the health sector and for humanitarian assistance.

    Countries which will be most affected are those with a high burden of HIV, TB and malaria and those with large populations of refugee and internally displaced people.

    Currently the top eight USAid recipients in Africa are: Nigeria, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, South Africa, Kenya, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Without funds being rapidly mobilised to fill the gap left by the US withdrawal, the effect on the health of millions of Africans is at stake. Failure to prevent new infections, and the threat of drug resistance developing because of disrupted treatment, will have far-reaching consequences.

    In Uganda, where about 1.4 million people are living with HIV/Aids, 60% of the spending on its HIV/Aids programme was from Pepfar, and about 20% from the Global Fund (partly funded from Pepfar).

    A drastic reduction in funding will be devastating for patients and the greater health system.

    The Pepfar programme, a lifeline for millions of Africans, has been under threat since before the most recent aid freeze. In 2024, the American congress only gave a one-year authorisation instead of the typical five-year funding authorisation.

    A conservative backlash against this programme has been growing for years with concerns that some funds may be used to fund abortion. The current authorisation expires in March 2025 and falls within the 90-day aid review period. With the current approval expiring next month, and in light of the current atmosphere, it is very likely that it may not be renewed.

    Read more: How US policy on abortion affects women in Africa

    What steps should African countries be taking?

    There has a been a lot of discussion around jobs and lives lost, but not much around what happens next: how African governments are planning on mitigating shortfalls in their health budget in the short term and foreseeable future.

    Therefore we need to ask our governments what that means for us and how they are planning to ensure that we do not reverse the gains made so far. This includes preventing millions of HIV infections, improved testing and provision of life-saving antiretroviral treatment.

    The sudden and drastic decisions taken by the Trump administration have been hailed by several commentators as the wake-up call the continent needs – to wean itself off dependency on a flawed “development aid” system that is admittedly a tool for geopolitical influence.

    Read more: US health funding cuts: what Nigeria stands to lose

    The disbelief and chaos in the global health sector should be rapidly mobilised into citizen action, for governments to invest in a critical sector that has depended on foreign assistance for too long. In the absence of sustained investment, the gains in the health sector may be lost, reversing decades of progress in global health.

    Lastly, Africans, especially scientists and academics, need to stand up to the worrying anti-science trend that underlies some of these drastic policies. The growing mistrust in science and scientific institutions will not abate unless it is challenged.

    It is ridiculous that a continent of 1.3 billion people is reliant on the whims of one man many kilometres away; on his signature on a single document.

    The world needs to wake up. We need to wake up.

    – Healthcare in Africa on brink of crisis as US exits WHO and USAid freezes funds: health scholar explains why
    – https://theconversation.com/healthcare-in-africa-on-brink-of-crisis-as-us-exits-who-and-usaid-freezes-funds-health-scholar-explains-why-248906

    MIL OSI Africa –