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Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal attends 22nd CREDAI National Conference on second day of Australia visit

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal attends 22nd CREDAI National Conference on second day of Australia visit

    Shri Goyal attends reception hosted by Parliamentary Friends of India and Australia-India Business Council at NSW Parliament

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 6:07PM by PIB Delhi

    In his ongoing visit to Australia from September 23-26, 2024, Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce & Industry, had a number of productive engagements on the second day (September 24). He was the Chief Guest at the 22nd National Conference of the Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI) in Sydney. The Conference brought together about 1100 real estate developers from India to Australia.

    In his address, the Minister urged the real estate industry to adopt even more effective measures for the well being of millions of workers employed in it. He appreciated the contribution of the real estate sector to the growth of the Indian economy and encouraged them to consider expanding their operations in international markets such as Australia.

    The Minister met Hon. Chris Minns MP, Premier of New South Wales at NSW Parliament and discussed the growing business and community linkages between India and Australia and the contribution of NSW to these ties. Minister attended a reception hosted in his honour by the Parliamentary Friends of India and Australia-India Business Council (AIBC) at the Parliament in which Ministers and Parliamentarians from NSW, including The Hon Anoulack Chanthivong MP, Minister for Industry and Trade of NSW and the Co-chairs of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India, participated.

    Several prominent business leaders based in Australia were also present. Minister thanked them for the warm reception and highlighted that the bipartisan support for close India-Australia ties gave strength to the bilateral partnership & deepening economic engagement.

    The Minister addressed a gathering of various key stakeholders in the bilateral economic relationship organized by Asia Link Business (ALB), Australia India Institute and KPMG. He participated in a fireside chat with the CEO of ALB, Mr. Leigh Howard, and answered a range of questions. Discussions focussed on fostering stronger India-Australia partnership in key sectors viz renewable energy, digitisation, infrastructure, education, critical minerals, tourism, fintech, agritech, space etc. Minister was presented with a copy of the report on ‘Doing Business in India’ by ALB which will help Australian businesses in leveraging the vast opportunities presented by the Indian market.

    Minister met several emerging Indian origin and Australian leaders in different sectors at an event organized by the High Commission of India and the India-Australia Business Community Alliance (IABCA). Addressing the gathering, the Minister said that these success stories were a reflection of the opportunities that strong India-Australia relations present for the mutual benefit of their people.

    Minister interacted with the Committee members of the Australian (Sydney) Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and encouraged them to act as a living bridge to promote business ties between India and Australia.

    In the forenoon, the Minister participated virtually in the meeting of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. He emphasised that collective efforts and forward-thinking action plans in critical sectors such as semiconductors, critical minerals for clean energy, chemicals and healthcare are crucial for unlocking the framework’s full potential.

    After concluding his productive 2-day visit to Sydney focussed on business and community interactions, Minister travelled to Adelaide where he will Co-chair with Senator The Hon Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism of Australia, the 19th Joint Ministerial Commission meeting scheduled for September 25, 2024.

     

     ***

    AD/VN/CNAN

    (Release ID: 2058313) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NATIONAL MEDICAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    Six individuals and two teams received the National Medical Excellence Awards (NMEA) this year, for excellence in the areas of care quality, patient safety, research, education, training, as well as community health. Mr Ong Ye Kung, Minister for Health, presented the awards at the NMEA ceremony held on 24 September 2024.

    2. The annual national award recognises the efforts of outstanding clinicians, clinician scientists and other healthcare professionals for their contributions. It acknowledges their achievements in advancing healthcare, improving the standards of patient safety, driving research and education, and developing better health in the community, which ultimately improve people’s lives.

    3. The National Community Care Excellence Team Award was introduced this year to recognise teams that have contributed significantly to improving community health and raised awareness of preventive health in the community care setting. In addition, the eligibility and criteria of the other award categories have been expanded to better recognise the contributions of healthcare professionals in preventive health and community care.

    4. This year’s NMEA recipients are as follows:

    Recipients will each receive a trophy, a citation and a prize of S$10,000. 

    5. The citations of the award recipients and the information on NMEA award categories can be found in Annex A and Annex B respectively. 

    MINISTRY OF HEALTH 
    24 SEPTEMBER 2024 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Agricultural Research and Education-Indian Council of Agricultural Research holds Swachhata Samvad and Nukkad Nataks in Swachhata Hi Seva and Special Campaign 4.0

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:56PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Agricultural Research and Education-Indian Council of Agricultural Research held Swachhata Samvad and Nukkad Nataks for ongoing Swachhta Hi Seva and Special Campaign 4.0.  

    Swachhata Samvad was organized in which dialogues and discussions were held for promoting awareness and community involvement in cleanliness initiatives to raise awareness about sanitation and hygiene. Street Plays/Nukkad Nataks were performed in local areas to educate and entertain while promoting cleanliness and sanitation. Various Educational Public Demonstrations were undertaken regarding Zero Waste Events, NGO and SHG Mobilization and Outreach for Swachhata. These events took place across various ICAR institutes across the country.

    *****

    SS

    (Release ID: 2058301) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MoHUA organizes a workshop on Urban Poverty Alleviation

    Source: Government of India (2)

    MoHUA organizes a workshop on Urban Poverty Alleviation

    Workshop aimed to sensitize the States/ULBs on the contours of pilot implementation of a proposed new programme on poverty alleviation in urban areas.

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:52PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) organised a workshop on 23rd September, 2024, on Urban Poverty Alleviation. During the workshop, deliberations were held on the various aspects of poverty in urban areas, and methods that can be adopted to address the same.

    Shri Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, MoHUA delivered the keynote address at the workshop which was attended by State Mission Directors from across the country, Municipal Commissioners and city representatives of 25 select cities, along with senior officials from Ministry and other Departments.

    The workshop aimed to sensitize the States/ULBs on the contours of pilot implementation of a proposed new programme on poverty alleviation in urban areas. The session commenced with an overview of the programme and objectives, presented by Shri Rahul Kapoor, Joint Secretary, MoHUA. It was followed by in-depth presentations covering various aspects including inter alia, community led Institutional development, financial inclusion and enterprise development, capacity building, development of social infrastructure, and innovations in livelihoods space. On this occasion, Shri Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, MoHUA, released the Mission Document for pilot implementation and briefed the participants regarding the objectives of the workshop, and encouraged States and Cities to think innovatively while trying out various initiatives during the pilot stage.

    On the occasion Shri Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, MoHUA said “Urbanisation provides various opportunities and there is a need to harness these opportunities through innovative thinking so that the urban poor particularly the vulnerable groups, including youths can get access to better livelihoods opportunities.”

    About the Workshop and the pilot:

     

    The workshop was attended by 28 States /UTs and the officials of 25 select cities. Valuable suggestions were given by States/UTs/Cities to help in designing the contours of an upcoming poverty alleviation programme. The pilot is to be launched in 25 diverse cities—including industrial hubs, migrant centres, aspirational districts, and port cities utilizing a Test-Learn-Scale approach. Set to commence from 1st October, 2024, the pilot will span three months, with a preparatory phase of one month to ensure effective implementation.

    The pilot is designed to uplift vulnerable groups within the informal sector, including construction workers, gig workers, waste workers, care workers, domestic workers, and transportation workers, who often face occupational, social, and residential vulnerabilities. These workers, engaged in precarious jobs with low wages, hazardous conditions, and limited access to social protection, are the primary beneficiaries of this mission. The pilot aims to break the cycle of poverty by providing financial assistance, social protection, and access to credit for micro-enterprises, and fostering innovation and collaboration.

    Through strategic interventions and a collaborative approach, the proposed programme aims to reshape the livelihood landscape in urban India, ensuring that the benefits of urbanisation are equitably distributed to uplift the most vulnerable sections of society.

    *****

    Sushil Kumar

    (Release ID: 2058299) Visitor Counter : 82

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SPEECH BY MR ONG YE KUNG, MINISTER FOR HEALTH, AT THE NATIONAL MEDICAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024, 24 SEPTEMBER 2024, 7.30PM AT PAN PACIFIC HOTEL SINGAPORE

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    Award recipients and their families,
    Colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, 
    1. I am pleased to join you tonight for the 16th National Medical Excellence Awards (NMEA) ceremony. The awards are given annually by the Ministry of Health (MOH) to recognise outstanding healthcare professionals who have made significant contributions in the advancement of healthcare in Singapore. 
    2. The NMEA is significant because it recognises people. With resources, any system can construct infrastructure and any system can procure equipment and therapeutics, but it takes special capability to be able to nurture and develop good people who build a great healthcare system. 
    3. Recently the Pope visited Singapore as part of his Asia-Pacific tour. For those who have visited his home city – the Vatican City, we will know about Saint Peter’s Basilica. It is a majestic structure supported by large stone pillars. We have a very small version of this at MOH. When I go to work every day, I will also admire the brick columns fronting the College of Medicine Building. 
    4. The equivalent of these pillars for our healthcare system are our people. Let me briefly describe these pillars, in no particular order. 
    Pillars of Healthcare
    5. The first pillar are our doctors and dentists. They stand at the forefront of patient care, working in multi-disciplinary care teams to deliver holistic care.
    6. Each clinician – specialists and generalists – brings something important to the table. However, as our population ages and patients have multiple conditions, there is an increasing demand for broad-based competencies. That is why we are trying to train more Hospital Clinicians, and Senior and Principal Hospital Clinicians who can oversee and coordinate care for patients. They are increasingly assuming the role of team lead in acute hospitals. 
    7. Clinicians also serve as educators, scientists and mentors. Their work in research shapes the future of medicine, while their roles as mentors and educators nurture the next generation of healthcare professionals. 
    8. This evening, we recognise clinicians who epitomise the spirit and contribution in public healthcare. Tonight, we are recognising Professors Tan Ban Hock, Jerry Chan, Jodhbir Mehta, Tan Suat Hoon, Associate Professor Gerald Chua and Adjunct Professor Lau Tang Ching. 
    9. The second pillar are our nurses, the largest group of healthcare professionals in our healthcare system. We have over the years elevated the role of nurses. Nurses now coordinate care, ensure treatments are properly delivered, comfort patients and their loved ones, and push the boundaries of care through nursing research, education and innovation.
    10. As the healthcare landscape evolves, their contributions extend well beyond bedside care, to anchoring care in the community, even shaping health habits amongst the population. 
    11. Third, Allied Health Professionals and pharmacists, who cover a wide range of expertise. Again, as the centre of gravity of care shifts out of hospitals and towards the community, their roles in screening, diagnosing, rehabilitating, providing vital support to patients and caregivers, and optimising medication regimens, are becoming more embedded in our day to day living environment. 
    12. The importance of their roles is growing, and so are the opportunities for them to lead community care initiatives.
    13. The final pillar comprises the rich expertise of non-healthcare professionals, who work alongside, around or behind healthcare professionals to keep the healthcare system going. I am happy to say that as a non-healthcare professional, this is the pillar that I belong to!
    14. For example, healthcare administrators ensure the smooth operations of our medical facilities and operations. They handle the budgets, finances, manpower, and ensure compliance with MOH’s regulations. IT professionals are transforming healthcare using data and digitalisation. Healthcare social workers help address the determinants of health at home and in the community. 
    15. These four pillars uphold the two key structures of our healthcare system – acute hospital care, and community care. They are separate, but contiguous, even overlapping structures. As I have alluded to in my speech so far, driven by an ageing population with changing healthcare needs, and major national programmes such as Healthier SG and Age Well SG, care is increasingly anchored in communities, health is being built up outside of hospitals, and new care models involving partnership between hospitals and community organisations, are emerging. 
    Caring for our Community
    16. There is therefore a growing need for awards like the NMEA to recognise these decisive changes that are happening. 
    17. Hence, this year, we have introduced the new National Community Care Excellence Team Award. The inaugural recipient of this new award category is the Social Prescribing Programme led by SingHealth Community Hospitals, in partnership with the Agency for Integrated Care, SkillsFuture Singapore, and several Active Ageing Centres. 
    18. The team has successfully integrated clinical care with social prescriptions, by bringing hospital and community partners to work together. As a result, patients recover faster, they can better manage chronic diseases and improve their health and wellbeing. The team has made a name for themselves internationally and have participated as guest speakers for World Health Organization (WHO) webinars and co-developed online courses for WHO’s online course platform.
    19. In addition, and I think this does not happen very frequently, the Clinical Excellence Team Award this year goes to a community-based, rather than a hospital-based initiative. The recipient is the Neighbours for Active Living, or “Neighbours” Programme, by Changi General Hospital (CGH). 
    20. Through this programme, CGH has identified over 14,000 residents who require follow up in the community. With the consent of the residents, they are then engaged by healthcare professionals and trained volunteers, to develop care plans for their health and social needs. The Neighbours programme is a new care model, which gives us a glimpse of the next phase of development of the national Age Well SG programme.
    21. I should add that other than care models, there are many other efforts to help anchor care in the community. For example:
    • We are expanding the capacity of community hospitals and Transitional Care Facilities. 
    • From next month, we will enhance the subsidies of community hospitals, to align with those of acute hospitals. This was announced some time ago, and effective from 1 October. The funding will be aligned. We will also allow subsidises for advanced diagnostics at community hospitals. By doing this, we minimise the delays and remove the friction for transfer from the acute hospitals to community hospitals.
    • We are expanding the number of Active Ageing Centres. Out of a total of 209 centres, 199 are offering programmes across at least the four domains of physical, learning, volunteer and communal dining activities. About one-third of them is engaging 30% or more of the seniors assigned to them. When we started looking at the data, everyone was at the low, single-digit engagement. Now 30% is engaging 30% or more.
    • We continue to make improvements to our data infrastructure, to facilitate sharing of patient data by healthcare professionals across settings. It also removes the need for repeated tests, screenings and assessment each time a patient moves from one setting to another. 
    22. All these added together, plus all your efforts, I think we are transforming the healthcare landscape. All these transformations are happening at a fairly rapid pace. It may be uncomfortable for some, but we have to change as our demography, patient profile and needs are also changing just as fast. With a common purpose and determination, in a few years’ time, we will have a different healthcare system. What will not change is that it will still be a system upheld by those core pillars, which are our people. 
    23. In closing, let me congratulate once again all our NMEA recipients. It is an honour and truly inspiring to be able to work with all of you. Thank you for your hard work and dedication, and also that of your loved ones and families who have supported you and continue to support you in this journey. I wish everyone an enjoyable evening. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India AI Fellowship For B.Tech, M.Tech & PhD scholars

    Source: Government of India

    India AI Fellowship For B.Tech, M.Tech & PhD scholars

    Students and scholars to submit their nominations as per the prescribed guidelines by 30th September 2024

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:36PM by PIB Delhi

    IndiaAI- Independent Business Division (IBD) is inviting nominations of B.Tech & M.Tech students for IndiaAI fellowship. Subsequently, IndiaAI is also inviting Top 50 National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranked research institutes to share their approval to participate in IndiaAI Fellowship for new PhD intakes researching in Artificial Intelligence.

    Nominations for B.Tech & M.Tech students

    Nominations for IndiaAI Fellowship are invited by IndiaAI from all B.Tech & M.Tech who are undertaking projects in AI. This fellowship support will supplement any existing fellowships and will cover the duration of the project one year for B.Tech. students, and two years for M.Tech. students.

    Students may submit their nominations on – https://indiaai.gov.in/article/proforma-for-submission-of-nominations-for-indiaai-fellowship-under-the-indiaai-mission  as per the prescribed guidelines by 30th September 2024.

    Fellowship opportunities for AI researchers in top institutes

    IndiaAI is offering fellowships to full time PhD scholars researching in the areas of Artificial Intelligence in the top 50 NIRF ranked Research Institutes. IndiaAI – IBD is inviting top 50 ranked research institutes to share their approval to participate in IndiaAI Fellowship and intake new PhD scholars in Artificial Intelligence. These scholars should not receive any scholarship / salary from any other organization at the time of enrolment into IndiaAI PhD Fellowship.

    Top 50 NIRF ranked Research Institutes are requested to submit their approval on the official letterhead signed and stamped by institute’s head agreeing to intake new PhD scholars as per the IndiaAI PhD fellowship guidelines to Smt. Kavita Bhatia, Sci ‘G’ & GC (AI & ET) on kbhatia@meity.gov.in by 30th September, 2024.

    Selection criteria for IndiaAI fellowship

    The actual selection of suitable candidates for the award of the IndiaAI Fellowship will be done by IndiaAI based on eligibility, relevance of the research proposal, profile of the student and availability of fellowships at the national level.

    About IndiaAI

    IndiaAI, an IBD under the Digital India Corporation (DIC) of the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), is the implementation agency of the IndiaAI Mission, which aims to democratize AI’s benefits across all strata of society, bolster India’s global leadership in AI, foster technological self-reliance, and ensure ethical and responsible use of AI.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2058277) Visitor Counter : 11

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India AI Fellowship For B.Tech, M.Tech & PhD scholars

    Source: Government of India

    India AI Fellowship For B.Tech, M.Tech & PhD scholars

    Students and scholars to submit their nominations as per the prescribed guidelines by 30th September 2024

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:36PM by PIB Delhi

    IndiaAI- Independent Business Division (IBD) is inviting nominations of B.Tech & M.Tech students for IndiaAI fellowship. Subsequently, IndiaAI is also inviting Top 50 National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranked research institutes to share their approval to participate in IndiaAI Fellowship for new PhD intakes researching in Artificial Intelligence.

    Nominations for B.Tech & M.Tech students

    Nominations for IndiaAI Fellowship are invited by IndiaAI from all B.Tech & M.Tech who are undertaking projects in AI. This fellowship support will supplement any existing fellowships and will cover the duration of the project one year for B.Tech. students, and two years for M.Tech. students.

    Students may submit their nominations on – https://indiaai.gov.in/article/proforma-for-submission-of-nominations-for-indiaai-fellowship-under-the-indiaai-mission  as per the prescribed guidelines by 30th September 2024.

    Fellowship opportunities for AI researchers in top institutes

    IndiaAI is offering fellowships to full time PhD scholars researching in the areas of Artificial Intelligence in the top 50 NIRF ranked Research Institutes. IndiaAI – IBD is inviting top 50 ranked research institutes to share their approval to participate in IndiaAI Fellowship and intake new PhD scholars in Artificial Intelligence. These scholars should not receive any scholarship / salary from any other organization at the time of enrolment into IndiaAI PhD Fellowship.

    Top 50 NIRF ranked Research Institutes are requested to submit their approval on the official letterhead signed and stamped by institute’s head agreeing to intake new PhD scholars as per the IndiaAI PhD fellowship guidelines to Smt. Kavita Bhatia, Sci ‘G’ & GC (AI & ET) on kbhatia@meity.gov.in by 30th September, 2024.

    Selection criteria for IndiaAI fellowship

    The actual selection of suitable candidates for the award of the IndiaAI Fellowship will be done by IndiaAI based on eligibility, relevance of the research proposal, profile of the student and availability of fellowships at the national level.

    About IndiaAI

    IndiaAI, an IBD under the Digital India Corporation (DIC) of the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), is the implementation agency of the IndiaAI Mission, which aims to democratize AI’s benefits across all strata of society, bolster India’s global leadership in AI, foster technological self-reliance, and ensure ethical and responsible use of AI.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2058277) Visitor Counter : 11

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Big boost to Anime & Manga culture and Creator Economy in India

    Source: Government of India

    Big boost to Anime & Manga culture and Creator Economy in India

    Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and Media & Entertainment Association of India launch WAVES Anime & Manga Contest

    Contests to cultivate healthy competition among students & professionals and elevate Indian talent on a global stage: Secretary, Ministry of I&B, Shri Sanjay Jaju

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:36PM by PIB Delhi

    In a landmark initiative to promote anime and manga culture in India, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), has officially launched the WAVES Anime & Manga Contest (WAM!). This innovative contest is part of the “Create in India Challenge”, aiming to nurture local talent and tap into the growing interest in Japanese manga and anime among Indian audiences.

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Railways, and Electronics & Information Technology, unveiled the Create in India Challenge—Season One at New Delhi on 22nd August, 2024. This challenge serves as a precursor to the upcoming WAVES summit, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Design in India, Design for the World,” articulated during the 78th Independence Day address.

    About WAM!

    WAM! offers a unique opportunity for Indian creators to produce localized versions of popular Japanese art styles, catering to both domestic and international audiences. By providing substantial marketing support and opportunities for global recognition, the contest aims to establish a strong platform for creative expression in manga and anime.

     

    WAM! features three categories, each offering a unique platform for creative expression:

    1. Participation Verticals
      1. Manga (Japanese style comics)- Individual Participation for Student and Professional Category
      2. Webtoon (Vertical comics for digital mediums) – Individual Participation for Student and Professional Category
      3. Anime (Japanese style animation) – Team (of upto 4 people) Participation for Student and ProfessionalCategory
    2. Format & Delivery – script provided on the spot. Participants to generate:
      1. Manga (Student, Individual) – 2 pages manga with at least 4 panels each, inkand color (physical / digital)
      2. Manga (Professional, Individual) – 2 pages manga with at least 4 panels each,ink and color (physical / digital)
      3. Webtoon (Student, Individual): 7 panels with ink and color
      4. Webtoon (Professional, Individual): 10 panels with ink and color.
      5. Anime (Student, Teams) – 10 seconds of anime as per the provided script
      6. Anime (Professional, Teams) – 15 seconds of anime as per the provided script

     

    Competition Structure and Schedule

    Participants can compete individually or in teams (of upto 4 people), with separate categories for students and professionals. The event is structured in two levels: state-level competitions across eleven cities and a national-level finale.

    Each state-level event begins with registration at 9:00 a.m., followed by a welcome and briefing session at 9:30 a.m. The competition runs from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., featuring a bustling expo and job fair that connects participants with industry opportunities. The day concludes with a wrap-up and celebration from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with activities such as cosplay competitions, musical performances, voice acting sessions and exciting giveaways.

     

    Key Dates and Locations for WAM!

     

    •   WAM! Bangalore: October 27, 2024

    •   WAM! Chennai: November 10, 2024

    •   WAM! Kohima: November 22, 2024

    •   WAM! Kolkata: November 24, 2024

    •   WAM! Bhubaneswar: November 26, 2024

    •   WAM! Varanasi: November 28, 2024

    •   WAM! Delhi: November 30, 2024

    •   WAM! Mumbai: December 15, 2024

    •   WAM! Ahmedabad: December 17, 2024

    •   WAM! Nagpur: December 19, 2024

    •   WAM! Hyderabad: December 21, 2024

    Registration is open on WAM! website www.meai.in/wam and participation is free of charge for all categories.

    The WAM! Finale will take place as part of the WAVES summit from February 5 to 9, 2025, at the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. Winners will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Anime Japan and similar international events, supported by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

     

    Webtoons, Anime & Manga

    Talking about the immense potential of Webtoons, Anime & Manga in India and the world, the Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju said “With its rich storytelling, creative styles and vibrant artistry, WAM! has the capability of elevating Indian talent on a global stage, inspiring a new generation to dream boldly and connect deeply with the global tapestry of creativity. The potential also lies in catering to the high demand among Indian consumers for such creatively weaved stories, enriching our creative landscape”. Talking about the WAM! contest verticals across 10 States, Shri Jaju said “This will cultivate healthy competition among students and professionals, encouraging innovation and skill development. By providing platforms for showcasing their talent, we can inspire excellence and effectively identify emerging talent within the industry.”

    Secretary of Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), Shri Ankur Bhasin added, “The launch of WAM! marks a significant step in bringing the vibrant culture of anime and manga to the forefront in India. By providing a platform for talented creators to showcase their work and reach global audiences, we are not only fostering creativity but also strengthening the ‘Create in India’ vision. This initiative reflects our commitment to nurturing local talent and building a thriving ecosystem for the AVGC-XR and media sectors in the country.”

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2058285) Visitor Counter : 70

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Big boost to Anime & Manga culture and Creator Economy in India

    Source: Government of India

    Big boost to Anime & Manga culture and Creator Economy in India

    Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and Media & Entertainment Association of India launch WAVES Anime & Manga Contest

    Contests to cultivate healthy competition among students & professionals and elevate Indian talent on a global stage: Secretary, Ministry of I&B, Shri Sanjay Jaju

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:36PM by PIB Delhi

    In a landmark initiative to promote anime and manga culture in India, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), has officially launched the WAVES Anime & Manga Contest (WAM!). This innovative contest is part of the “Create in India Challenge”, aiming to nurture local talent and tap into the growing interest in Japanese manga and anime among Indian audiences.

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Railways, and Electronics & Information Technology, unveiled the Create in India Challenge—Season One at New Delhi on 22nd August, 2024. This challenge serves as a precursor to the upcoming WAVES summit, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Design in India, Design for the World,” articulated during the 78th Independence Day address.

    About WAM!

    WAM! offers a unique opportunity for Indian creators to produce localized versions of popular Japanese art styles, catering to both domestic and international audiences. By providing substantial marketing support and opportunities for global recognition, the contest aims to establish a strong platform for creative expression in manga and anime.

     

    WAM! features three categories, each offering a unique platform for creative expression:

    1. Participation Verticals
      1. Manga (Japanese style comics)- Individual Participation for Student and Professional Category
      2. Webtoon (Vertical comics for digital mediums) – Individual Participation for Student and Professional Category
      3. Anime (Japanese style animation) – Team (of upto 4 people) Participation for Student and ProfessionalCategory
    2. Format & Delivery – script provided on the spot. Participants to generate:
      1. Manga (Student, Individual) – 2 pages manga with at least 4 panels each, inkand color (physical / digital)
      2. Manga (Professional, Individual) – 2 pages manga with at least 4 panels each,ink and color (physical / digital)
      3. Webtoon (Student, Individual): 7 panels with ink and color
      4. Webtoon (Professional, Individual): 10 panels with ink and color.
      5. Anime (Student, Teams) – 10 seconds of anime as per the provided script
      6. Anime (Professional, Teams) – 15 seconds of anime as per the provided script

     

    Competition Structure and Schedule

    Participants can compete individually or in teams (of upto 4 people), with separate categories for students and professionals. The event is structured in two levels: state-level competitions across eleven cities and a national-level finale.

    Each state-level event begins with registration at 9:00 a.m., followed by a welcome and briefing session at 9:30 a.m. The competition runs from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., featuring a bustling expo and job fair that connects participants with industry opportunities. The day concludes with a wrap-up and celebration from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with activities such as cosplay competitions, musical performances, voice acting sessions and exciting giveaways.

     

    Key Dates and Locations for WAM!

     

    •   WAM! Bangalore: October 27, 2024

    •   WAM! Chennai: November 10, 2024

    •   WAM! Kohima: November 22, 2024

    •   WAM! Kolkata: November 24, 2024

    •   WAM! Bhubaneswar: November 26, 2024

    •   WAM! Varanasi: November 28, 2024

    •   WAM! Delhi: November 30, 2024

    •   WAM! Mumbai: December 15, 2024

    •   WAM! Ahmedabad: December 17, 2024

    •   WAM! Nagpur: December 19, 2024

    •   WAM! Hyderabad: December 21, 2024

    Registration is open on WAM! website www.meai.in/wam and participation is free of charge for all categories.

    The WAM! Finale will take place as part of the WAVES summit from February 5 to 9, 2025, at the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. Winners will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Anime Japan and similar international events, supported by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

     

    Webtoons, Anime & Manga

    Talking about the immense potential of Webtoons, Anime & Manga in India and the world, the Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju said “With its rich storytelling, creative styles and vibrant artistry, WAM! has the capability of elevating Indian talent on a global stage, inspiring a new generation to dream boldly and connect deeply with the global tapestry of creativity. The potential also lies in catering to the high demand among Indian consumers for such creatively weaved stories, enriching our creative landscape”. Talking about the WAM! contest verticals across 10 States, Shri Jaju said “This will cultivate healthy competition among students and professionals, encouraging innovation and skill development. By providing platforms for showcasing their talent, we can inspire excellence and effectively identify emerging talent within the industry.”

    Secretary of Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), Shri Ankur Bhasin added, “The launch of WAM! marks a significant step in bringing the vibrant culture of anime and manga to the forefront in India. By providing a platform for talented creators to showcase their work and reach global audiences, we are not only fostering creativity but also strengthening the ‘Create in India’ vision. This initiative reflects our commitment to nurturing local talent and building a thriving ecosystem for the AVGC-XR and media sectors in the country.”

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    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EC reviews poll preparedness for forthcoming assembly elections in Jharkhand

    Source: Government of India

    EC reviews poll preparedness for forthcoming assembly elections in Jharkhand

    Ensure strict implementation of law and ECI guidelines without any bias; EC cautions state & district administration against partisan conduct

    Zero-tolerance against inducements; Stringent directives to enforcement agencies to curb money power

    EC directs to expedite Assured Minimum Facilities at all polling stations

    Engage voters with SVEEP activities involving local culture, sports & influencers

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:21PM by PIB Delhi

    CEC Shri Rajiv Kumar along with ECs Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. S. S. Sandhu held a detailed & comprehensive review of the poll preparedness for the forthcoming Assembly Elections in Jharkhand at Ranchi. The term of State Assembly in Jharkhand is due to expire on 5th January, 2025 and elections are scheduled for 81 ACs (44 General; 09 SC; 28 ST) in the State.

    During the two-day review visit of the Commission on September 23-24, representatives of national and state political parties namely Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, Bharatiya Janata Party, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Indian National Congress, National People’s Party, AJSU Party, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and Rashtriya Janta Dal came to meet the Commission. All political parties conveyed their appreciation for successful & peaceful conduct of Lok Sabha Elections 2024.

    The main issues raised by political parties included:

    1. Most parties unanimously requested consideration of various festivities like Diwali, Chhath, Durga Pooja and state foundation day in the month of October and November, before deciding on the election schedule for enhanced participation in election process. It was informed that many voters in the state will be travelling during Chatth pooja.
    2. Many parties also requested for a single-phase election.
    3. Parties requested for an error free electoral rolls and to ensure a free and fair elections with non-partisan action by local civil and police administration for a level playing field.
    4. A proper mix of CAPF and State police for appropriate deployment at sensitive and rural booths, monitored by an IG Level Officer.
    5. 100 % Webcasting in all polling stations.
    6. Regarding polling stations, one of the parties requested availability of ramps and sufficient lights in all polling stations, along with priority in voting for elderly, PwDs and pregnant women.
    7. All polling stations to be set up in proximity of residential areas for convenience of voters. Pick and drop facility may be provided for polling stations set-up farther from residential areas. Accessibility Observer may be deployed for ensuring facilities at polling stations.
    8. One of the parties raised a concern that in some cases, members of same family residing together were allotted different polling stations and some polling stations have more than 1500 electors.
    9. To avoid any undue harassment by authorities, few parties raised need for clear guidelines and demarcation of area for setting up of polling desks near polling station by parties on poll day.
    10. One of the parties also raised concern regarding deletion of name of voters in certain constituencies in previous elections, after final publication of the electoral roll.
    11. One of the parties requested enquiry of a sudden increase of voters in certain Assembly Constituencies.
    12. Some parties raised concerns on Hate Speech during campaigning. One of the parties requested ban on raising sub-judice matters like illegal immigrants in the state during campaigning.
    13. Strict vigil and action on use of illicit cash, liquor and freebies to sway voters. A grievance that administration is slow to cooperate/proceed with complaints of opposition parties/candidates and there is a need for swift action on any such complaints.
    14. Monitoring of campaigning by candidates 24×7 for any violations and prohibiting campaigning through IVRS calls on poll day
    15. More awareness on ECI directions regarding display of party flags by voters voluntarily in their home after election announcement to avoid misuse of Public Defacement Act by authorities.
    16. Details of EVM to be used at polling stations to be given to parties/candidates. Reserve EVMs to be made available at all polling stations for smooth voting process
    17. Voter Information Slip to be distributed in advance for awareness
    18. Videography of counting of postal ballots
    19. Other demands included the timely sharing of voter lists with candidates; curb diversion of funds received by certain NGOs for development work towards election related campaigning and reduction in nomination fee for the contesting candidates.  

     

    The Commission assured the representatives that it has taken cognizance of suggestions and concerns of the political parties and ECI is committed to conduct free, fair, participative, inclusive, peaceful and inducement free elections in the state. The Commission after reviewing these issues, decided and conveyed the following to state and district administration:

    1. Beyond the Commission’s mandate of webcasting in 50% polling stations, webcasting will be done in all polling stations, wherever feasible technically.
    2. Assured minimum facilities including ramps, sufficient lighting, wheelchairs, and volunteers for elderly and PwD voters will be provided at all polling stations.
    3. Priority voting for elderly, PwDs and Pregnant women would be ensured
    4. Polling stations will be on the ground floor and within 2 kms of the residence of the voters. Pick and drop facility would be provided for few polling stations beyond 2km range.
    5. All divisional commissioners are directed to assess and ensure compliance of AMFs at polling stations.
    6. None of the polling station will have more than 1500 electors.
    7. Clear demarcation of area i.e. 200mt from the periphery of the polling station premises, where Polling Parties can set up their desks on poll day would be ensured.
    8. There would be no undue harassment of persons under Public Defacement Act. DEOs and SPs directed that law should be implemented equally and without any bias.
    9.  As per ECI guidelines, EVM & VVPAT details will be shared with all contesting candidates after first and second randomization. FLC & First randomisation is done in presence of recognized parties. Second randomization of EVMs and VVPATs is conducted, before commissioning of EVMs and VVPATs, in the presence of contesting candidates to allocate polling station wise and reserve machines.
    10. Video recording of counting of postal ballots would be ensured as per ECI guidelines.
    11. District Administration would ensure vigil and prohibition on campaigning/advertisement using bulk SMS and IVRS calls during silence period.
    12. Voter information slips will be distributed timely
    13.  DEOs were specifically told to be equally accessible to all political parties and to ensure prompt resolution of their complaints and grievances, apart from meeting them regularly through periodic meetings.

     

    During the review meeting with nearly 20 central and state Enforcement agencies like DRI, NCB, State & Central GST, RPF, RBI, State Police, Income Tax, Enforcement Directorate, etc., the Commission underscored its focus for an inducement-free elections. Without mincing words, the Commission conveyed its zero tolerance towards use of money power in the elections. However, CEC Rajiv Kumar also cautioned the officials to avoid any undue harassments to the public in the name of checking during elections. The following directions were given to enforcement agencies:

    1. All enforcement agencies to work in a coordinated manner to curb illicit liquor, cash, and drugs inflow in the state.
    2. Agencies to synchronise and update their route maps of flow of inducements with actual sensitivity on the ground.
    3. SPNO to ensure Joint teams of police, transport, State GST, Excise and forest for coordinated and synergistic action.
    4. Police and excise department to focus on action against liquor and drug kingpins and establish backward linkages for wider deterrence.
    5. Review inter-state border and Naka arrangements, particularly those which lie on illicit liquor and drugs inflow. Special focus on border with West Bengal, Odisha and Bihar.
    6. 24×7 CCTV monitoring at critical check posts on interstate borders and feeds to be followed up earnestly. 
    7. Focus on movement of synthetic drugs apart from rigorous monitoring of Ganja and poppy cultivation and destruction. Special watch of destruction of illegal poppy cultivation in districts of Palamu, Chatra, Hazaribagh, Latehar, Gumla and Khunti.
    8. National Highways particularly connecting Jharkhand with Odisha and West Bengal to be kept under close watch.
    9. Apart from road routes, rail and forest routes to be kept under close watch.
    10. Enforcement Agencies to mutually share intelligence and work in a coordinated manner.
    11. State Level Bankers Committee to ensure cash transfers only in designated vehicles during designated hours.
    12. Strict vigil over illicit online cash transfers through wallets.
    13. Special vigil on cargo movement through airstrips and helipads.

    During its two-day review, the Commission also held meeting with the Chief Secretary & Director General of Police to review the overall poll preparedness and law and order matters. Commission directed CS that AMF should be ensured in all polling stations. DGP was directed to ensure regular co-ordination meetings with counterparts in border states. Jharkhand shares a long border with 5 states namely Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh. CEC Rajiv Kumar highlighted that implementation of law and ECI guidelines should be in letter and spirit without any bias.

    On the second day, detailed review with DEOs/SPs/Divisional Commissioner’s/IGs was held on every aspect of election planning and conduct. The Commission specifically reviewed all the issues and concerns raised by the political parties during their meeting. CEC Rajiv Kumar emphasized that all DEOs/SPs to ensure free and fair elections, maintaining highest standards of impartial conduct for a level playing field. He emphasised that district administration needs to create a festive and comfortable voting experience for voters.

    DEOs to engage voters through innovative voter awareness and outreach activities for enhanced voter turnout. He emphasised that DEOs should organize SVEEP activities using local culture and sports like archery and hockey. Paintings competitions can be organized with local tribal folk themes. Local influencers/icons to be roped in for awareness activities. DEOs were told to intensify outreach activities in urban areas like Bokaro, Dhanbad, Ranchi, etc to address urban apathy noticed in previous elections. All DEOs and SPs were instructed to monitor social media for fake news and to respond swiftly with appropriate legal action, if required.

    The Chief Electoral Officer and State Police Nodal Officer gave a detailed overview of the poll preparations, including the Special Summary revision of Electoral Rolls in the state with respect to July 1, 2024 as the qualifying date. The final electoral roll was published on August 27, 2024, a copy of which was provided to all recognized parties free of cost. The details are summarised in Annexure A. The Commission reviewed in detail the law and order and requirement of forces with CEO & SPNO in for smooth and peaceful conduct of election.

    Senior officials from the Commission were also present during the review meetings.

    Annexure- A

    Electors

    CEO Jharkhand informed 2nd SSR in the state with respect to July 1, 2024 as the qualifying date has been completed and electoral roll was published on August 27, 2024 and copies of the same were provided to political parties. With continuous updation of the electoral roll and as on 20.09.2024, a total of 2.59 crore electors are registered in the state with approx. 1.31 crore male, 1.28 crore female electors. Over 11.05 lakh first time voters (18-19 years); 1.14 lakh 85+ senior citizens and 3.64 lakh PwD voters are registered in the state. More than 1845 voters are 100+ years old.  There is 100% enrolment (1.78 lakhs) of the 8 PVTGs in the electoral roll. With focus on inclusive and participative elections, all DEOs were directed to enhance participation of PVTGs and tribal groups in the elections. The state Electoral gender ratio is 978.

    Polling Stations

    While giving an overview of the polling stations during the review, CEO Jharkhand informed that a total of 29,562 polling stations will be set up on 20,276 locations in assembly elections. While 24,520 of these will be in rural areas, 5,042 will be urban polling stations with an average of 872 voters per polling station.

    1271 PS will be managed solely by women and 139 will be youth managed (young employees) to promote voting amongst the key demographics of women and youth. 48 Polling stations will be manned by persons with disabilities.

    Assured Minimum Facilities at Polling Stations

    All DEOs assured that polling stations across the state will have Assured Minimum Facilities like ramps, drinking water, toilets, electricity, shed, chairs etc. for convenience of voters.

     

    Technology

    DEOs informed that they will use an ecosystem of IT Applications to facilitate all stakeholders including voters and political parties.

    cVIGIL: This app empowers citizens to report any electoral violations and malpractices. Flying squads are deployed to address the complaints raised through an easy to use, intuitive app which preserves the anonymity of the complainant and assures a response within 100 minutes.

    SUVIDHA: It is a single window app for candidates to raise requests for permissions for meeting halls, booking grounds for political rallies etc. The technology is a step towards ensuring a level playing field as permissions are accorded on a first in first out basis, without any discretion.

    KYC or Know Your Candidate App is a step to promote an informed and aware electorate. The app contains the criminal antecedents, if any, of the candidates in the electoral fray and their assets and liabilities, educational details. 

    Saksham App is specially designed for PwD voters with various accessibility features built-in. One can request for Pick-n-Drop facility, wheelchair assistance, or volunteer assistance at the polling booth through this app to make the voting experience smooth for PwD voters.

    Inclusive & Accessible Elections:

    For the first time in State Assembly Elections in Jharkhand, Senior Citizens over 85+ years and PwDs with 40% benchmark disability will be provided an option to vote from the comfort of their homes. Home Voting facility is optional. If an elector is willing to visit the polling station physically to cast their vote, necessary assistance will be provided at the polling station. Application form 12D is distributed and collected by BLO within 5 days of the notification, from such electors who opt for this facility and deposit it with the Returning Officer. The complete process is videographed and representatives of political parties/candidates are always involved in the entire process of voting from home.

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    PK/RP

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan starts a series of dialogues with farmers and farmers’ organizations in Delhi today

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan starts a series of dialogues with farmers and farmers’ organizations in Delhi today

    As discussions starts with different farmer organizations, I meets today around 50 farmer leaders: Shri Shivraj Singh

    We have received many suggestions from farmers, we will try our best to solve these suggestions by working out: Shri Chouhan

    A lot of research has been done on stubble management, there is no need to burn stubble after cutting the stubble, it becomes wealth instead of waste: Union Minister

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:22PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan started a series of dialogues with farmers and farmers’ organizations in Delhi today. Chouhan stated, as I have said before, agriculture is the backbone of India’s economy and farmers are its soul and serving farmers is like worshiping God for us. He said that last time when I was discussing the achievements of 100 days, I decided that I will start a series of meetings with farmers or farmer organizations every Tuesday because many times we do not understand the problems while sitting in the office. It is our duty to directly communicate with those who have problems, discuss them and if any issue comes up, solve it. Officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) were also present during the dialogue.

    Union Minister Shri Chouhan said that continuous work is being done under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the overall development of the agriculture sector. Many schemes related to agriculture have been implemented in the last 10 years and this sequence is continuing. So far, 7 major schemes have been approved in the first 100 days of the third term of the Modi government. The central government will spend Rs 15 thousand crore on these schemes, which will benefit the farmers. Rs 2817 crore will be given for the Digital Agriculture Mission and agricultural reforms will continue through technology. Decisions are being taken in the interest of farmers and the country; efforts are being made to solve their problems by sitting together with the farmers.

    Shri Shivraj Singh said that today I have started talking to different farmer organizations. Today I met about 50 farmer leaders, we have received many suggestions from them, some of them are related to the price of crops and some are about the crop insurance scheme. Some suggestions are also about the problem of stray animals and the losses caused by them. He said that many suggestions have also come about which decisions should be taken when the new crop arrives.

    He has said that he will sit with the officials and work out all the suggestions seriously and after working out, he will try his best to do whatever is possible. We will leave no stone unturned for the welfare of the farmers and their upliftment. He further said that discussions have been held with the farmers’ organizations in a cordial atmosphere and the farmers have praised many decisions of the Modi government.

    The Union Minister said that we will sit with the team of officials and work out all the suggestions and after working out we will try our best to do whatever is possible. He said that discussions have been held with the farmers’ organizations in a cordial atmosphere and the farmers have praised many decisions of the Modi government.

    He said that the import duty on palm oil has been increased to 27.5%, minimum export price has been removed from Basmati, export duty on onion has been reduced from 40% to 20%, the government will buy all tur, urad and masoor etc. Many recent decisions were appreciated by farmers.

    Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that the dialogue we have started with the farmers has won everyone’s heart and this dialogue will continue. We will talk to our own farmers and will also try to solve their problems honestly.

    Regarding stubble management, he further said that a lot of research has been done, machines have also been made, stubble will not have to be burnt after cutting the stubble, it becomes wealth instead of waste. We will make better use of it and we will try to convince the farmers by creating awareness.

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    SS

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    Read this release in: Hindi

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DECLARATION OF RESERVE LIST FOR COMBINED GEO-SCIENTIST EXAMINATION, 2023

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 5:01PM by PIB Delhi

    The Result of the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination, 2023 was declared vide Press Note dated 12.01.2024  recommending 258 candidates in the order of merit for appointment.

    2.  The Commission, in accordance with Rule 16 (iv) & (v) of the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination, 2023, had also maintained a Consolidated Reserve List in order of merit below the last recommended candidate.

    3. Now as per the requisition placed by the Ministry of Mines, the Commission hereby recommends 06 candidates which comprises 5 candidates ( EWS- 02, OBC-03) of Geophysicist, Group ‘A’ / Scientist ‘B’ (Geophysicist), Group ‘A’ and 01 candidate (OBC-01) of Chemist, Group ‘A’/ Scientist ‘B’ (Chemical), Group ‘A’ for the Combined Geoscientist Examination, 2023 from the candidates of Reserve List. A list of these candidates is enclosed. The Ministry of Mines will communicate directly with these recommended candidates.

    Click here to download Result in English.

    Click here to download Result

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ayush SHS Campaign in full swing with 500 plus activities nationwide

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 4:59PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Ayush, together with its councils and institutes nationwide, initiated the 502 activities nationwide under ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign. The 15 day campaign was started on September 17, 2024 which will continue until October 1, 2024. The campaign has been designed on the basis of three key pillar ‘Swachhhata Mein Jan Bhagidari, – The first pillar, ‘Swachhhata Mein Jan Bhagidari,’ ‘Sampoorna Swachhata,’ ‘Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir’. Under ‘Swachhhata Mein Jan Bhagidari, ministry has created total 227 activities till date, emphasizing public participation, increasing awareness and making cleanliness a shared responsibility. Under the second domain, ‘Sampoorna Swachhata,’ has successfully created 90 activities aimed at addressing cleanliness issues in neglected areas. With the third pillar, ‘Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir,’ 185 activities are under execution. These activities have been focused on improving the working and health conditions of sanitation workers.

    The Minister of State Ayush (Independent Charge) Shri Prataprao Jadhav stated “Cleanliness is not just a duty, but a devotion to our nation. Every citizen has the power to build a healthier and stronger India by embracing cleanliness in every action. With Swachhata Hi Seva campaign let us unite to make India cleaner, greener, and healthier for future generations.”

    The Ministry of Ayush is successfully running with the campaign supported and initiated by of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Ministry of Jal Shakti, aiming to enhance cleanliness and sanitation across the country. The theme of the campaign, ‘Swabhav Swachchata, Sanskar Swachchata,’ focuses on fostering behavioral and cultural shifts, both.

    The campaign is built around three key pillars, each designed to promote greater public involvement and drive meaningful impact through collective action. The first pillar, ‘Swachhhata Mein Jan Bhagidari,’ emphasizes public participation and raising awareness, making cleanliness a shared responsibility. The Ministry has created 227 activities under this pillar to fulfill its objectives. Since the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission, its success has been driven by collective responsibility, with every citizen playing a crucial role.

    The second pillar, ‘Sampoorna Swachhata,’ focuses on cleanliness drives under the Sampoorna Swachhata initiative. This aims to transform neglected or challenging locations, often referred to as black spots, into clean and healthy spaces. These areas are typically difficult to manage during regular cleanliness efforts, posing significant health and environmental risks. The campaign has successfully completed 90 activities to address these issues.

    The campaign encourages local bodies, especially in villages, to identify and tackle these black spots through Mega Cleanliness Drives, mobilizing both citizens and partner organizations.

    The third pillar, ‘Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir,’ prioritizes the health, safety, and well-being of sanitation workers, commonly known as Safai Mitras. To support their efforts, 185 activities are completed to improve their working conditions. Under the initiative for Preventive Health Checkups, health camps will be organized to ensure that Safai Mitras and their families have access to necessary healthcare services.

    The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign is currently in progress and will run until October 1, 2024. The Ministry of Ayush invites all citizens to actively participate in this vital initiative, fostering a culture of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the nation.

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    SK

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India attends Ministerial Meeting of Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity

    Source: Government of India

    India attends Ministerial Meeting of Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity

    IPEF partners welcome upcoming entry into force of the Clean Economy Agreement, Fair Economy Agreement, and IPEF Overarching Agreement under Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity

    IPEF partners commit to continued progress at virtual Ministerial Meeting

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 3:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal along with 13 other IPEF Ministers virtually attended the third Ministerial meeting focused on IPEF Pillar II, III, and IV.                

    In particular, Minister Goyal along with other IPEF Ministers welcomed the upcoming entry into force of the Clean Economy Agreement, Fair Economy Agreement, and the Overarching Agreement on IPEF on October 11, 2024, October 12, 2024, and October 11, 2024, respectively, and emphasized the significant opportunities to further deepen economic cooperation and deliver concrete benefits under the IPEF agreements through ongoing collaboration.

    Supply Chain Resilience

    In the virtual meeting, IPEF Ministers reviewed and appreciated the substantive progress made to operationalize the Supply Chain Agreement, deepening cooperation to build more competitive and resilient supply chains, better prepare for, prevent, and respond to supply chain disruptions when they happen, and ensure that regional supply chains raise up workers and respect labor rights.  They outlined concrete next steps for the upcoming months, building on the progress made by the Supply Chain Agreement’s three bodies: the Supply Chain Council, Crisis Response Network, and Labor Rights Advisory Board.  IPEF partners also highlighted the meaningful collaboration taking place under the Supply Chain Agreement which includes:

    The IPEF Ministers noted that the three supply chain bodies – the Supply Chain Council (Council), the Crisis Response Network (Network), and the Labor Rights Advisory Board (LRAB) – met virtually in July to elect leadership in which India was elected as Vice Chair of the Council with US as Chair; Korea as Chair and Japan as Vice Chair of the Network; and the United States as Chair and Fiji as Vice Chair of the LRAB.

    Minister Goyal noted that the formation of Action Plan teams in the first in person meeting of supply chain council held in Washington last week, for three critical sectors – semiconductors, critical minerals with a focus on batteries, and chemicals which are highly relevant today given their supply/production concentration and the experience learned from disruptions faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

     

    The world has witnessed exponential growth in demand for clean energy solutions to meet respective climate goals. The paradigm shift towards a sustainable and low-carbon future has brought to the forefront of the critical importance in securing a reliable supply of minerals which are critical for green transition.

    The use of specific minerals is indispensable for the sectors including clean energy, electronics, defence, transportation, telecommunications, fertilisers, and pharmaceuticals. One of the key challenges in supply chains is risk on account of concentration of global capacities or resources, which can add to price volatility and supply uncertainty. The work under the Action Plan team needs to address this global concentration of supply chains in any form.

    The growing population puts immense pressure on limited agricultural land for higher yields and in this context, the importance of resilient supply chains for Agro-chemicals has become extremely important. According to an estimate, the Global Agrochemicals Market (fertilizers, pesticides, adjuvants, and plant regulators) is projected to reach USD 282.2 billion by 2028 from USD 235.2 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 3.7%.

    Minister Goyal emphasized that healthcare including pharmaceuticals and medical devices is an extremely relevant area due to over concentration of global production of APIs and Key Starting Materials (KSMs) which can severely impair supply chain resilience and impact our capacity to address the healthcare needs of our economies. Besides, the multimodal transport systems including multimodal transport corridors, upgrades of logistics infrastructure, enhanced technological interoperability and data flows among freight and logistics enterprises, are some of the key areas which need to be focused upon.  

    Minister Goyal noted that IPEF’s focus on Logistics and Movement of Good aligns perfectly with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Gati Shakti initiative, which aims to improve logistics and transportation infrastructure across India through evidence based integrated planning. Further, data and analytics on one hand will help identify new opportunities for collaboration for better resilience amongst IPEF supply chains and on other will help identify structural and systemic risks, enhancing the Council’s ability to address current challenges. He emphasized the workforce development which is a key cross cutting component of building resilient supply chains across the IPEF region should include efforts to identify skill gaps, support reskilling and upskilling, and ensure skill qualification comparability across the region to facilitate workforce mobility.

     

     

    Crisis Response Network

    IPEF Ministers emphasized the importance of collaboration under the Crisis Response Network to help partners timely understand risks in their supply chains. They also reflected on the emergency simulation exercise conducted during the Crisis Response Network (CRN) in person meeting to assist partners in creating tailored systems for real-time monitoring and crisis preparedness.

    Clean Economy

    Agreement on Clean Economy intends to accelerate efforts of IPEF partners towards energy security and transition, climate resilience and adaptation, GHG emissions mitigation; find/develop innovative ways of reducing dependence on fossil fuel energy; promote technical cooperation, workforce development, capacity building, and research collaborations; and collaborate to facilitate development, access, and deployment of clean energy and climate-friendly technologies.  The IPEF partners welcomed the progress made on the eight Cooperative Work Programs (CWPs), which serve as one of the primary mechanisms under the Clean Economy Agreement for facilitating cooperation among participating IPEF partners on priority topics. Each CWP, as developed by the proposing IPEF partner or partners, in consultation with the other IPEF partners, has different objectives and workstreams to carry forward the collaborative work.  During the virtual Ministerial, the IPEF partners commended the progress made on the Clean Economy Agreement since the successful Ministerial and inaugural Clean Economy Investor Forum in June.

    The IPEF partners welcomed the continued efforts to build and sustain longer-term cooperation among various groupings of interested partners on a range of climate solutions through the CWP mechanism, in furtherance of the overarching goals of the IPEF Clean Economy Agreement, especially w.r.t hydrogen, carbon markets, and small modular reactors (SMRs) and e-waste urban mining proposed by India.

    IPEF Ministers expressed great satisfaction over the very successful first IPEF investor Forum held in Singapore which provided a common platform to the investors and the project proponents together and facilitated them to gainfully engage on a wide array of investment opportunities including innovative ideas in the space of climate friendly technologies.

    Fair Economy

              By strengthening anti-corruption efforts and enhancing the efficiency of tax administration, the IPEF partners are demonstrating their commitment to increased transparency and predictability, and thereby will be better positioned to expand their trade, investment ties and ensure the benefits of trade are broadly shared throughout their economies.

    The IPEF partners welcomed the next steps to implement the Agreement, including operationalizing the Technical Assistance and Capacity Building Coordination Group that will coordinate technical assistance and capacity building (TACB) under the Agreement’s Capacity Building Framework. Some of the TACB initiatives highlighted include:-

    • The US Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP)’s  two-year program will offer IPEF partners TACB to help with implementation of the anti-corruption provisions of the Agreement, primarily focused on enforcement training centered on foreign bribery, corporate liability, and compliance.
    • In August 2024, the US Treasury Department’s Office of Technical Assistance (OTA)’s virtual workshop served as a forum for the IPEF partners to discuss the importance of effective tax administration to support economic and development objectives.
    • In October 2024, the US State Department, with the Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, will hold an IPEF workshop focused on the implementation and enforcement of foreign bribery laws and another IPEF workshop on preventing corruption in public procurement, including tools to improve the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms, appeal systems, and potential remedies and legal options.

    Minister Goyal underscored that peer learning, knowledge sharing and capacity building initiatives under the Fair Economy agreement will remain key to achieving its objectives. India, under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has established a robust anti-corruption regime and has already implemented several legislative, administrative, and regulatory measures to address both corruption and promote tax transparency. 

    Minister Goyal emphasized that the full potential of IPEF can only be realised if each partner country brings their respective strengths to the table whether it is technological advancements or investment capacity or market potential or requisite resources including skilled workforce, to address various challenges of supply chain resilience or green transition.

    The IPEF partners agreed that the Ministers will continue to monitor the progress made to further operationalize the Supply Chain Agreement, the Clean Economy Agreement, the Fair Economy Agreement, and the IPEF Overarching arrangement, and look forward to the first meetings of the ministerial-level IPEF Council and IPEF Joint Commission established under the IPEF Overarching  Agreement .

    About IPEF

    IPEF was launched on 23 May 2022 at Tokyo, Japan, comprising 14 countries – Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and USA. The IPEF seeks to strengthen economic engagement and cooperation among partner countries with the goal of advancing growth, economic stability and prosperity in the region.

    The framework is structured around four pillars relating to Trade (Pillar I); Supply Chain Resilience (Pillar II); Clean Economy (Pillar III); and Fair Economy (Pillar IV). Agreement on Supply Chain Resilience (Pillars II) was signed in November 2023 and is in force since February 2024. Agreement on Clean Economy (Pillar-III), Agreement on Fair Economy (Pillar- IV) and the IPEF Overarching Agreement were signed by India early this week in Delaware, USA in the presence of the Prime Minister during his 3-day visit to the US.  India has maintained an observer status in Pillar-I.

    These agreements were negotiated in consultation with line Ministries/Departments including the Ministry of External Affairs and other relevant stakeholders.

     ***

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Reportage: ‘Decolonize Oceania! Free Guåhan!’: Communicating resistance at the 2016 Festival of Pacific Arts

    Source: Pacific Media Centre

    Headline: ‘Decolonize Oceania! Free Guåhan!’: Communicating resistance at the 2016 Festival of Pacific Arts – Analysis published with permission of PMC

    It’s time we confronted the fact that, for nearly 400 years, the state of the island has also been colonial.  It is the unchanged and unrepentant shadow cast upon our unshackled destiny.  (Pacific Daily News, ‘Transcript of Gov. Calvo’s remarks during the annual State of the Island Address,’ March 31, 2016, http://www.guampdn.com.)

    Guåhan (Guam) Governor Eddie Baza Calvo made these remarks during the annual State of the Island Address delivered on March 7, 2016.  His speech also mentioned issues such as: self-determination, the US military buildup plans for the island, and the 12th Festival of the Pacific Arts. Calvo’s speech focused on the Festival, held in Guåhan from May 22-June 4, 2016:

    Over 3,000 Pacific artists will join ours in the world’s most beautiful display of solidarity, fellowship, and progress. This is a time for us, my dear people, to rediscover our roots and bond in the glory of our history and our customs.  Celebrate the talent and courage of Guam’s greatest thinkers and masters of our traditions. Discover just how brilliant this Pacific Ocean shines with the cultures and talents of islanders throughout.

    Calvo’s words touch on colonialism, culture, history, and tradition.  Such discourse at once signals the specificity of the struggle for Guåhan to face and confront its colonial political status and ongoing militarization, while also marking FestPac as an event that would hold expansive possibilities for connecting the island with other peoples throughout Oceania. 

    Oceania Resistance

    Researcher profile

    Na’puti, Tiara R. & Frain, Sylvia C. (2017). ‘Decolonize Oceania! Free Guåhan!’ Communicating resistance at the 2016 Festival of Pacific Arts. Amerasia Journal, 43(3), 2-34. Paper available at: https://doi.org/10.17953/aj.43.3.

    Monday, March 19, 2018

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Lower Hutt Comes Together at Inaugural City Summit

    Source: Hutt City Council

    The inaugural Lower Hutt City Summit has united more than 200 community representatives to shape a shared vision for the future of Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai Lower Hutt.
    Those involved come from businesses, government agencies, community groups, sports clubs, non-government organisations and local residents.
    The summit, held at the Lower Hutt Events Centre, started public engagement for Tō Tātou Tāone 2055/Our City 2055, an ambitious strategy setting out 30-year aspirations for our people and place.
    Mayor Campbell Barry says now is the right time to unite the community.
    “Times are tough, and people are feeling the strain. That’s why it’s vital we come together now – not just to tackle our current challenges, but to lay the foundation for a future that our tamariki and mokopuna will thank us for.
    “The summit brought together a wide range of perspectives and experiences from across the city, showing that collaboration is key to overcome the challenges we face. There was a lot of optimism in the room, with clear pride in being from the Hutt.
    “With the collective wisdom, and more importantly, the collective action of our people – we can flip our biggest challenges into our biggest opportunities and create a future to be proud of.”
    Those attending the summit took part in interactive workshops centred around the question “what can we do today that future generations will thank us for?”
    They also heard from speakers Mayor Barry, Tumu Whakarae | Chief Executive Officer Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika Kara Puketapu-Dentice, WelTec student Huliana Whonu Fanua, and Victoria University Adjunct Professor Girol Karacaoglu.
    Huliana Whonu Fanua spoke to the importance of strengthening the identity and culture of our youth.
    “A thriving city doesn’t just look like economic growth, lots of people or flash new infrastructure. It’s a city where its people feel valued,” she said.
    “I want this for the youth of today. I want their identity to drive them to where they’re meant to be,” she said.
    Their insights, along with contributions from the attendees, laid the foundation for the collective approach that will inform the development of Our City 2055.
    With the launch of engagement for Tō Tātou Tāone 2055 / Our City 2055, Hutt City Council will be continuing to engage with a wide range of people in our community, including Mana Whenua, key stakeholders and Lower Hutt’s diverse communities.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland News – Hapū-led partnership launched to protect globally significant ecosystems and endangered species of the Kaipara

    Source: Auckland Council

    Launch of Poipoia Te Kākano – A groundbreaking hapū-led initiative for the Kaipara

    A partnership agreement to protect the delicate ecosystems and endangered species of the Kaipara catchment, an area of global ecological significance, was signed into effect today between its key partners Te Uri o Hau, Te Roroa, Ngā Maunga Whakahii,  Auckland Council, Northland Regional Council, and the Department of Conservation.

    The historic agreement was signed at Te Hana Te Ao Marama Marae, a significant cultural place that reflects commitment to community-driven conservation.

    The initial aim of the partnership, named Puawai ki Kaipara, is to rid the five pivotal peninsulas (105,000 hectares) encircling the Kaipara Harbour of pest animals, including possums, rats, stoats, weasels, ferrets, pigs, and feral cats. The project then plans to extend into the entire Kaipara catchment area – an additional 543,000 hectares.  

    The area’s delicate ecosystems provide refuge for many endangered species, including the tara iti (fairy tern), mātātā (North Island fernbird), and kiwi. The coastal dunes and dune lakes along the western coast provide habitat for matuku-hūrepo (Australasian bittern), moho pererū (banded rail), tūturiwhatu (New Zealand dotterel), and other species.

    Kaipara Moana is a migratory bird habitat of international significance. Rare species, such as the kuaka (bar-tailed godwit), use the harbour for feeding in summer before returning to the northern hemisphere to breed, while the wetland areas provide feeding and roosting grounds for migratory waders.

    Auckland Council Policy and Planning Committee Chair, Councillor Richard Hills says the support Auckland Council is providing Poipoia Te Kākano will help align community and council activities on this important environmental initiative.

    “Poipoia Te Kākano is about working together for the protection of the special ecosystems inhabited by many endangered indigenous species that are pressured by introduced pest animals,” Cr Hills says.  

    “This initiative will focus on predator control, restoring native species and protecting an ecological sanctuary that acts as a haven for migratory birdlife from all over the world, and as nature’s corridor between Auckland and Northland. What we do to protect this precious area has a flow-on effect for other ecologically significant areas in Aotearoa,” he says.

    Auckland Council General Manager Environmental Services Samantha Hill says the partnership represents a shared goal to protect ecosystems and species that are profoundly important.

    “The dunes, lakes and the surrounding forest and wetlands are of cultural and ecological significance to so many. As caretakers of the natural environment, we have a collective responsibility to protect and restore it, and the taonga species that live within it,” she says.

    “We are uniting in this partnership to align our efforts and resources so that we can make a lasting impact, by working together to more effectively control a range of pest animals that threaten this taonga.”  

    Poipoia Te Kākano Project Lead Victoria Kurupō comments, “Our combined partnership has emerged from one united goal: to combat the predator invasions threatening the region’s biodiversity, and reflects our guiding philosophy, embodied in the whakatauki “Poipoia te Kākano, Kia Puāwai”, meaning “Nurture the seed and it will blossom”.

    “Our work is deeply rooted in the principles of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and mātauranga (traditional knowledge). This initiative is about creating a sustainable future for both our environment and our communities,” she says.    

    “With support from Predator Free 2050 Ltd, we have made significant strides in assessing and planning our predator elimination strategies, and an intensive feasibility study has guided us in identifying the needs of each peninsula.”    

    Ms Kurupō adds that the initial focus on the five Kaipara Peninsulas – Poutō, Hukatere (Tinopai), Puketōtara (Ōneriri), Ōkahukura (Tāporapora), and Te Korowai o Tonga (South Head) is inspired by the legendary taniwha Pokopoko Whiti te Rā.

    Kia Puawai ki Kaipara (the partnership) is a Kaipara Uri-led, Tiriti o Waitangi partnership comprising Te Uri o Hau, Ngā Maunga Whakahii, Te Roroa, Auckland Council, Northland Regional Council, and the Department of Conservation. It is one of two Māori-led Predator Free 2050 projects in Auckland.

    Read this and other stories on OurAuckland: https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Springtime weather continues its vigorous run across New Zealand – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Thursday 19 – Sunday 22 September – MetService is forecasting more active spring weather across Aotearoa New Zealand, with showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds on the horizon. However, for many, Saturday brings a break in the weather and a chance to enjoy the other side of what spring has to offer.  

    The western South Island is set for another round of wet conditions. MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane elaborates, “Many parts of the West Coast and Fiordland have experienced rain nearly every day this month, with year-to-date rainfall already tracking above average. The coming days, including Thursday, Friday, and the weekend, are likely to follow the same pattern with more rain from the west and the possibility of heavier falls during thunderstorms.”

    While the wet weather is approaching from the west, few areas of the country will manage to escape rain or showers in the days ahead. Thunderstorms are also expected to make an appearance. In addition to the western South Island, Tasman and the Marlborough Sounds could see thunderstorms on Friday, while much of the North Island, including Auckland, may experience thunderstorms Friday afternoon or evening. Wellington and the eastern North Island look to be the exceptions.

    Sharp westerly winds have been a common feature of spring 2024 so far and this continues on Thursday and Friday, especially for the North Island. “Road users, especially those in Auckland, may do well to check any impacts to road conditions on Waka Kotahi NZTA’s website,” Makgabutlane advised. Saturday brings a brief respite before things pick up again on Sunday.

    “In fact, Saturday is shaping up to be the pick of the weekend, with the strongest winds easing and the wettest weather largely confined to the western South Island. At this time of year, it’s always a good idea to make the most of any fine weather, as the next spell of unsettled conditions is never far behind,” Makgabutlane says.

    This seems to ring true, as rain and showers look set to spread northwards up the country on Sunday, bringing a damp period for some to end the weekend.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arts – Dr Jacqueline Leckie is awarded the NZSA Peter and Dianne Beatson Fellowship for 2024!

    Source: The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa PEN NZ Inc.

    The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc) congratulates Dr Jacqueline Leckie on winning the NZSA Peter and Dianne Beatson Fellowship 2024 to work on her novel with the working title Meg Campbell (1937–2007): Aroha and Resistance.
    This annual award is made possible by the generosity of the Beatson’s. In establishing this fellowship, they have given NZ authors a valuable opportunity to be economically secure while they bring a project to completion.  It’s a commitment and affirmation for New Zealand Aotearoa writers. The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc) offers its sincere thanks to the Beatson’s.

    The judging panel of Paddy Richardson and Laurence Fearnley said: ” the judges feel that the winning project by Dr Jacqueline Leckie is one of national significance as it is the first biography of poet Meg Campbell, and will add to the history of NZ women’s literature in an original and engaging manner.
     
    The Judges felt each of the projects of the shortlisted writers listed below were of high literary merit and would be of national significance when completed. They said all of this year’s thirty applications were of a very high standard with exciting and promising projects, proposing a wide variety of subjects relating to topics such as social history, place and belonging and concern with the environment. Genres ranged across novels, short story and poetry collections, non-fiction, memoirs and biography.”

    Dr Jacqueline Leckie is honoured to be the recipient of the 2024 Peter and Dianne Beatson Fellowship. This will enable her to research and write the first book length biography of one of Aotearoa’s most original and memorable poets, Meg Campbell (1937–2007), provisionally titled ‘Meg Campbell (1937–2007): Aroha and Resistance.’ Meg’s story has remained within the shadows of her renowned creative husband, Alistair Te Ariki Campbell.

    Jacqui Leckie is a non-fiction writer and researcher based in Ōtepoti. She is an adjunct research fellow with the Stout Centre for New Zealand Studies at Victoria University of Wellington (and a former J. D. Stout Research Fellow there), and a conjoint associate professor at the University of Newcastle, Australia. Jacqui lectured for several decades in anthropology and history at Otago University, the University of the South Pacific and Kenyatta University. She is a co-editor of the Journal of Pacific History.
     
    Jacqui has published extensively, especially on the Pacific, the Indian diaspora and mental health history. Her most recent book is Old Black Cloud. A Cultural History of Mental Depression in Aotearoa. Other books include Invisible. New Zealand’s History of Excluding Kiwi-Indians; A University for the South Pacific; Colonizing Madness: Asylum and Community in Fiji; Indian Settlers. The Story of a New Zealand South Asian Community; and To Labour with the State.

    The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc)  congratulates winner Dr Jacqueline Leckie, along with the shortlisted writers:- Alison Ballance, Chris Bourke, Majella Cullinane, Lee Murray, Vivienne Plumb, and Kerrin Sharpe.

    In 2023 the fellowship was awarded to Laurence Fearnley to work on a novel based on the sense of sight – the fourth of a series of novels based around the five senses.  In previous years, recipients have included: Whiti Hereaka, Siobhan Harvey, Frankie McMillan, Sue Wooton, Paddy Richardson, Tina Makereti, Tim Jones, Emma Neale, Mandy Hager, Carl Nixon, Glenn Colquhoun, Sue McCauley and Marilyn Duckworth.

    The NZSA Peter & Dianne Beatson Fellowship is an annual award open to any NZSA member working on a new fiction, non-fiction, poetry or drama project. Find out more about the fellowship.

    Notes:
    The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa PEN NZ Inc is the principal organisation representing writers in Aotearoa. Founded in 1934, it advocates for the right to fair reward and creative rights, administers prizes and awards, works across the literary sector to make Aotearoa New Zealand writers and books more visible, and runs professional development programmes for writers.
    authors.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: RNZRSA Christmas Parcels head off to deployed New Zealand Defence Force Personnel

    Source: RNZRSA

    Thanks to the RNZRSA, a small piece of New Zealand is on its way to every member of the New Zealand Defence Force deployed overseas this Christmas.

    Those serving personnel can expect some festive cheer from home, thanks to 140 RNZRSA Forces Gift Parcels which are now on the way to deployments around the world including in the Republic of Korea, South Sudan, Egypt, the Middle East and Antarctica.  

    The parcels were packed near Trentham Military Camp yesterday by a busy production line of `elves’ including the Minister for Veterans Hon Chris Penk, Commander Joint Forces New Zealand Major General Rob Krushka, RNZRSA National President Sir Wayne Shelford, staff from the RNZRSA’s National Office and volunteers from the New Zealand Defence Force.  

    Christmas boxes were filled with treats and Kiwi classics donated by the wonderful team from Pams. Each box also contained a poppy and a card handmade by students from Mt Cook and Silverstream Primary Schools in Wellington, to let those serving overseas know the country’s thoughts are with them.  

    Commander Joint Forces New Zealand Major General Rob Krushka, who helped to pack the boxes,  said that these small packages make a big difference to those away from home at Christmas.  

    “We know it’s incredibly tough for our service personnel to be away from their families during special occasions such as birthdays and Christmas. The NZDF are very grateful to the RNZRSA for the packages which bring a little bit of joy to our personnel at what can be a challenging time.”  

    RNZRSA National President, Sir Wayne Shelford said the RNZRSA are proud to continue to support NZDF personnel around the world.  

    “This is the 84th year the RSA has sent these parcels to our military personnel overseas at Christmas. It’s a small thing we can do to thank them for the sacrifice they are making, and to brighten their day a little.  

    We are committed to continuing our support to New Zealand’s veterans of military service, including the more than 60,000 that have served since 1990.”

    Background

    The RSA is incredibly grateful for the generosity of Pams New Zealand and Packaging Products. Pams donate the majority of goodies inside the parcels, and this year included items such as microwave popcorn, party mix lollies, roasted and salted deluxe nut mix, packets of biscuits and much more. Packaging Products print and donate the boxes the goodies are packed in to.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Ara’s Spring graduation marks new beginnings

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

    They all cross the stage proudly in their academic regalia, but Ara Institute of Canterbury graduates are far from ‘one size fits all’.
    Almost 450 ākonga (students) lined up for the institute’s Spring Graduation on Friday, marking significant personal milestones from Master’s degrees to certificates and every level of study in between.
    Their stories are inspiring. Take Tahlia King (Kāi Tahu, Ngāti Maniapoto, and Arowhenua), the former vet nurse who, after a career ending injury, chased her passion for the arts and received a Master of Creative Practice with Distinction. She’s now planning her first solo exhibition.
    Then there’s Dilan Richards, the Sri Lankan refugee who spent his formative years at Australia’s Nauru detention centre, dreaming of becoming a pilot. He got his first taste of tertiary study and “found his community” at Ara through his New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Level 4). He was unable to make Friday’s ceremony – too busy with classes at flying school.
    One graduate there was Deryn Roder, whose 20-plus years in the workforce in management, leadership and recruitment roles was appraised and evaluated through Ara’s Centre for Assessment of Prior Learning (CAPL).
    Roder said achieving her Bachelor of Applied Management (Human Resources Management) was a dream she’d held for a long time.
    “Doing my degree through CAPL has helped me prove I have the knowledge and background to contribute to a degree,” Roder said. “With a year of challenging study, I’ve shown that I am in the right industry, and I have what it takes to advance in it.”
    Student speaker Gezeng Yeki, Bachelor of Applied Management (Human Resources Management) welcomed the cohort for graduation in her indigenous Papua New Guinean Tok Pisin language.
    She congratulated those gathered for their resilience, determination and dedication, and dedicated her own qualification to her eight-year-old son.
    “Although I knew that being a single parent and studying was not going to be easy, I faced the moments of loneliness and uncertainty for him. In those moments I discovered an inner strength that I never knew existed,” Yeki said.
    In all, 60 programmes were represented, many of which have multiple specialist streams. From Level 1 Foundation graduates achieving the New Zealand Certificate in Skills for Living for Supported Learners right though to those achieving their master’s in the disciplines of health, creative practice and sustainable practice.
    Te Pūkenga representative Paora Ammunson congratulated Ara’s graduates one by one, handing them their scrolls to cheers, applause and stirring tautoko from whānau and friends.
    Farewelling those gathered, Ara’s Executive Director Darren Mitchell urged grads to stay in touch.
    “We have cherished our role in your educational path, and we’re proud of the connections we’ve built together. We are here to support you, to celebrate the contributions you will make to our world, and to continue to cheer you on.”
    With personal triumphs at every turn, Ara graduates from all walks of life are striking new paths.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace – Cook Islands civil society calls for ocean protection from deep sea mining during underwater minerals meeting

    Source: Greenpeace

    Rarotonga, Cook Islands – 150 people paddled out into the port of Avarua, Rarotonga, on Wednesday, deploying a floating banner that calls for ocean protection while an international seabed minerals conference is taking place across town. Another 300 people joined the action on Avarua Harbour.
    Civil society groups Te Ipukarea Society, Kōrero O Te Ōrau and Our Ocean Ancestors convened the peaceful flotilla to demonstrate community opposition to deep sea mining – a sentiment echoed by communities across the Pacific.
    Alanna Smith, Director of Te Ipukarea Society, says the sail-out event is an opportunity to highlight to the world that there is local opposition to deep sea mining in the Cook Islands.
    “Te Ipukarea Society supports a precautionary pause to deep sea mining to ensure robust and independent environmental research is being carried out in our ocean, as well as more time being spent towards meaningful information sharing with our people regarding the environmental risks and impacts of deep sea mining.
    “We are still very much in a period of discovering new learnings about how the deep sea functions, for example, very new research highlighting polymetallic nodules being a source of producing dark oxygen in the deep ocean and potential risks to migratory tuna fish stock through pollutants found in excess sediment brought up from the seafloor.”
    The Underwater Minerals Conference is the largest annual convention of mining companies, governments and academics from around the world. It’s sponsored by Moana Minerals and other deep sea mining-linked companies.
    During conference events, Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown reiterated the government’s plan to be at the forefront of seabed mining.
    Greenpeace campaigner Juressa Lee (Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Rarotonga) is in Avarua in solidarity with the groups, and calls for the community to be heard.
    “While this minerals conference is underway, the local community is out here calling for ocean protection, not pillage. Indigenous People of the Cook Islands and the Pacific have thousands of years of Indigenous knowledge, cultural ties to and guardianship of the moana. Today they are calling for the health and protection of the ocean to be the priority.
    “Efforts to start destructive deep sea mining are being led by the same colonial, extractive mindsets that have caused a huge amount of damage and harm to the climate, environment, biodiversity and Indigenous rights, and Pacific Peoples are on the frontline. Communities here in Rarotonga, in Aotearoa and across the Pacific are standing up to protect the ocean for many generations to come, and Greenpeace stands with them in solidarity.
    “These mining companies, governments and greedy investors are promising riches from these deep-sea ‘treasures’, but this cannot be at the expense of a healthy and thriving ocean, on which we all depend.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Save the Children – Young ocean champions called to join global conversation on ocean protection

    Source: Save the Children

    WWF-New Zealand and Save the Children New Zealand are calling for young Kiwi ocean advocates to share their views on how to better protect our ocean – with at least one young Kiwi given the chance to attend a major global ocean summit in France in 2025.
    The two organisations have joined forces to give young Kiwis an opportunity to be part of the global conversation for change, exploring solutions to better protect the world’s ocean and accelerate youth-led ocean action.
    Young New Zealanders are being invited to take part in four online workshops, where they will meet other young ocean champions, build their networks in Aotearoa, and contribute ideas and solutions at a global level on the protection of our ocean.
    The workshop series will explore a range of topics including humanity’s relationship with the ocean and the threats it faces, protecting and restoring marine ecosystems and biodiversity, unlocking ocean-based solutions to climate change and developing a sustainable and equitable ocean economy that supports future generations.
    One young attendee (aged 18+) will be selected to be among the 60 young people from around the globe attending the Ocean Citizen Summit, hosted at Nausicaá in Boulogne sur Mer, France in March 2025.
    Save the Children Chief Executive Heidi Coetzee says this is a unique opportunity for young Kiwis to join a global conversation for ocean action.
    “While our marine environment is an important part of our lives and national and cultural identities, it is facing many threats, with unsustainable fishing, plastic pollution and climate change pushing our marine species and habitats to the brink of extinction.
    “Too often Pacific voices are missed in these conversations. I would encourage young people from all backgrounds to take part and share their views.”
    WWF-New Zealand CEO Dr Kayla Kingdon-Bebb says this is an opportunity for rangatahi in Aotearoa to play a part in addressing the threats to our ocean and protecting the life within.
    “As Kiwis, most of us have a deep connection to the ocean – but we can often feel disconnected from the decisions that get made about how we look after it for the future.
    “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people who care about Aotearoa’s marine environment to have their voice heard on the world stage and play a part in creating a healthy ocean for future generations.”
    The workshops are open to anyone aged between 16 and 30- with a deep interest or involvement in ocean issues.
    Attendees at the workshops in Aotearoa could be selected to join 60 of the most motivated participants from around the world at the Ocean Citizen Summit in France in March 2025, with their travel and subsistence costs paid by Nausicaa.
    At this summit, the chosen representative(s) will share the insights and solutions from Aotearoa New Zealand and have a role in the creation of a global Ocean Citizen Charter, which sets out youth-led solutions to the challenges facing our ocean. They will also be involved in the development of a digital app to engage people in ocean conservation and receive training in ocean advocacy and communications.
    Registrations close 30 September 2024.
    -Anyone between 16-30 y.o. can participate in the workshops, but only participants 18+ are eligible for the travel opportunities.
    About Save the Children NZ:
    Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.
    Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xinjiang’s railway port sees 6,000 China-Europe freight trains this year

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

    URUMQI, Sept. 24 — Horgos Port, a major railway hub in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has facilitated 6,000 China-Europe freight train trips since the beginning of this year, according to local customs officials.

    The port has maintained an average of 22 daily China-Europe freight train trips, with increased exports of daily supplies, electromechanical equipment, electronic products, and agricultural produce to markets in Central Asia and Europe.

    Along with Alataw Pass, another key railway port in the region, the two ports have handled over 10,000 China-Europe freight trains as of late August, according to local railway authorities.

    This figure represents a 9 percent year-on-year growth, data from the China Railway Urumqi Bureau Group Co., Ltd. indicated.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China-ASEAN Expo further drives economic, trade cooperation

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

    NANNING, Sept. 24 — Participants at the 21st China-ASEAN Expo, which kicked off on Tuesday in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, emphasized the importance of deepening economic and trade cooperation between the two sides.

    The opening ceremony attracted about 1,100 participants, including Chinese and foreign leaders, government officials, entrepreneurs, scholars, and representatives from international organizations.

    The theme of this year’s expo focuses on “Upholding amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness for common development, creating a diamond crown new future — promoting development of a China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 and high-quality growth of this region.”

    Speaking at the opening ceremony, China’s Vice Minister of Commerce Li Fei said that the mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation between China and ASEAN countries has reached new levels.

    Bilateral economic and trade cooperation has continued to upgrade over the years, with positive progress achieved in negotiations for version 3.0 of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, Li said.

    The five-day event covers an exhibition area of nearly 200,000 square meters, with Malaysia as the country of honor.

    As part of the 50th-anniversary celebrations of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia, four events related to China-Malaysia enterprise cooperation matchmaking, China-ASEAN commodity trading innovation promotion, and the Malaysian durian shopping festival, will be held.

    In addition, a new section has been introduced to highlight strategic emerging industries, showcasing the latest developments and technologies in fields such as digital technology, new energy and intelligent connected vehicles.

    The expo has been standing as a testament to the enduring friendship, cooperation and shared prosperity between China and the ASEAN countries over the years, said Kao Kim Hourn, secretary-general of ASEAN, adding that since its inception in 2004, the expo has evolved into an important platform for dialogue, cooperation and development, covering sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, technology, education and tourism.

    It has made important contributions to the economic integration between ASEAN and China, facilitating investment flows and cross-border economic opportunities, laying the foundation for building a more connected, resilient and dynamic region, Kao added.

    Since the first China-ASEAN Expo was held in 2004, the event has actively built a platform for ASEAN enterprises to enter the Chinese market.

    Official data shows that China has remained ASEAN’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. In the first seven months of this year, bilateral trade reached 552 billion U.S. dollars, up 7.7 percent year on year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: AMERICA/PERU – To support learning among indigenous populations, there is a lack of bilingual teachers and adequate infrastructure

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Tuesday, September 24, 2024

    Iquitos (Agenzia Fides) – “We need authorities who are committed to defending the rights of girls, boys and adolescents of indigenous peoples, because they cannot continue to be set aside”. It is the voice of Mariluz Canaquiri, leader in Peru of the Amazonian indigenous Kukama Kukamiria, who speaks of the decline in education of indigenous peoples. “The authorities do not care about the education of indigenous children, there is no adequate infrastructure and there are no full-time bilingual teachers to teach them in our language,” emphasizes Canaquiri, who is also president of the Federation of Indigenous Women Kukama Kukamiria. Intercultural bilingual education (IBE) is a current educational policy in the South American country of 33 million inhabitants, with 55 recognized indigenous peoples, four Andean and 51 Amazonian. According to the results of the latest National Evaluation of Learning Outcomes (ENLA), published by the Ministry of Education, only 5.6% of fourth-grade primary school students (10 and 11 years old) of IBE institutions of the Amazonian population have achieved the expected results. “There is no bilingual intercultural education here,” said President Canaquiri. “How could they learn if our identity, our culture, our way of seeing the world are not valued in the school curriculum in any way, and in logistical conditions where the school building is an area covered with branches and trunks of trees with unbearable heat,” the leader stressed in a statement to an international non-governmental organization. Although the first policy in favor of the student population of indigenous peoples arose in 1972, more than half a century ago, it has always received little interest from the State, despite the IBE being part of their individual and collective human rights. “They hire teachers because they speak Quechua, Shipibo, Asháninka or the corresponding language, but when they go to school they do not apply the IBE. Sometimes they teach only in Spanish, other times they speak the children’s native language, but all the rest they read and write in Spanish,” an analyst reported. There are 24,000 schools throughout the country that follow the IBE, where most reinforce the students’ native language and teach them Spanish. The educational policy seeks to ensure that the indigenous school population is bilingual with oral and written skills, but according to studies carried out by local researchers, the country is going backwards. However, despite these precariousness, a small school in the peasant community of Accollya stands out positively, located in the municipality of Soccos, almost 3,400 meters above sea level, in the province of Huamanga, one of the 11 that make up Ayacucho. This is an Andean department that was hit hard by an internal armed conflict that Peru experienced between 1980 and 2000. Supported by an NGO, the school boasts a single teacher with 33 years of experience who has always been committed to bilingual intercultural education, following training and in-depth courses. “I work from Monday to Thursday in Spanish and on Fridays in Quechua, using the notebooks that the ministry sends us for each topic,” said the woman who is the only teacher of 10 pupils in first, second and third grade, aged between six and eleven. “The children’s response is very good, from first grade they acquire reading and writing skills, now it’s September and the youngest are already reading. It’s the advantage of teaching different classes because they motivate each other,” the teacher stressed. Furthermore, we must not forget the important contribution of the Catholic Church in the Amazon in the field of education and healthcare where it has often been a substitute for the State, arriving where it is not, even today. Hundreds of missionaries throughout history have been true promoters of respect for human dignity. Religious and lay people from dozens of countries have given their lives in the most remote places with the aim of making the Amazon a place of coexistence and respect for the dignity and rights of all, especially the most vulnerable, largely indigenous peoples. Among other initiatives in favor of learning and the formation of school libraries in these areas, it is worth highlighting the participation of the ‘yachac’, the wise men of the community, who hold intergenerational meetings encouraging the practice of reading among students and their families. The indigenous school population at the national level is estimated at 1.2 million, the vast majority are Quechua (700,000) and Aymara (300,000) from the Andean areas of the country, and the rest from Amazonian languages such as Asháninka, Shipibo Konibo, Awajún, among others. The Kukama Kukamiria people live mainly in the department of Loreto, the largest of the Peruvian Amazon. According to data from the Ministry of Culture, the population of the Kukama Kukamiria communities is estimated at 37,053 people. Among these, 1,185 declared that they speak the Kukama Kukamiria language, which corresponds to 0.02% of the total native languages at the national level. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 24/9/2024) Share:

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/BANGLADESH – “Student power” must remain within the rule of law, hopes Bishop Subroto Gomes

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Dhaka (Agenzia Fides) – “The situation we are experiencing now, after the political and social crisis of last August, is delicate. There is still tension in society, there are protests especially by young people. The massive student demonstration caused the prime minister to leave and flee abroad. Now the new interim government, led by Mohamed Yunus, has a difficult task: to heal the political, social and economic wounds, restore trust and also maintain the rule of law, because there are also some worrying signs”: explains to Agenzia Fides Mgr. Subroto Boniface Gomes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Dhaka. The Bishop notes some possible “dangers” existing in the expressions of “student power”. “For example – he says – in some Catholic schools in the diocese of Dhaka, students tried to force the dismissal of some teachers – regularly chosen and paid by the school administration – only because, in their opinion, they were not aligned and compliant with the new course, or because they had somehow dared to criticize the student protest. This has generated a crisis within our schools, which are attended by 95% Muslim or non-Christian students. Faced with the attempt to forcefully impose this or other measures, such as accepting girls wearing the burqa at school, the Archbishop, with a sensational choice, decided to close the schools. One was a girls’ school, another is run by the Brothers of the Holy Cross. At that point, the concerted intervention of the parents’ committee, religious leaders and school staff allowed for dialogue, a peaceful solution to the crisis and the reopening of the schools. We could not give in on our values and principles. But it is an example to say that the legitimate rights of students must not encroach on and undermine democracy, the rule of law, or the rights of others,” notes Msgr. Gomes. Another aspect to keep under control, then, “is the return or reorganization of radical Islamic groups and parties that could penalize communities of minority religions or promote an agenda of Islamization. We must be vigilant on this aspect, because the temptation of extremism is just around the corner. It is essential not to polarize society. We trust in the new Yunus government to keep the course straight in terms of respect for democratic principles, respect for the Constitution and fundamental freedoms for all citizens, regardless of religion,” says the Bishop. Last July, thousands of students took to the streets to protest against the Supreme Court’s decision to reintroduce a quota system for access to public employment that allocated 30% of jobs to the children and grandchildren of veterans of the 1971 war of independence. Shehik Hasina’s government responded to the demonstrations by deploying police and paramilitary forces who shot at the crowd. The protest thus turned into a movement against Hasina and her party, the Awami League, who led the country for 15 years, often delegitimizing or arresting political opponents and dissidents. The official toll of the repression is around a thousand dead and hundreds injured. On August 5, the prime minister fled abroad, taking refuge in India. The army intervened by dissolving Parliament and then appointed Muhammad Yunus, known as the “banker of the poor”, an 84-year-old economist, known for the “Grameen Bank”, specialized in the microcredit system, as head of an interim government, for which he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006. The executive is leading a delicate transition phase while waiting for new elections. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 24/9/2024) Share:

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: 24/09/2024 Polonia commits to accepting CARF

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Polonia commits to accept CARF24.09.2024

    The presentation of information on crypto-assets (CARF) is the latest update of information on the OECD.Declaration of the Agreement between Poland and CARF.Declaration of the Agreement between Poland and CARF, a joint statement that obliges the signatories to adopt CARF. Poland has thus joined the 58 countries that will introduce new rules for reporting transactions using crypto-assets. The countries declare that they will start the international exchange of tax information obtained in this regard from 2027.Declaration of the Agreement between CARF is a joint statement constituting a grassroots initiative of the countries of the World Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Tax Information (Foro Mundial sobre Transparencia e Intercambio de Información con Fines Fiscales).The text of the statement is attached.

    MaterialDeclaración conjunta sobre la implementación del marco de presentación de informes sobre criptoactivos (CARF)CARF-signatories-joint-statement.pdf 0.21 MB

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: AFRICA/SOMALIA – Tensions over recent arms supplies to Somalia and Puntland

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Tuesday, September 24, 2024 weapons

    Mogadishu (Agenzia Fides) – Wars (for now?) of words and press releases in the Horn of Africa between Somalia, Somaliland and Ethiopia around recent military supplies that arrived in the region. On September 20, the government of Mogadishu condemned what it called “an illegal supply of weapons” by the government of Addis Ababa to Puntland, an autonomous Somali region that has its own institutions but which has not yet declared its intention to separate from the rest of Somalia. This choice was instead made by Somaliland, a northern region that has declared its independence from Mogadishu since 1991. On January 1, 2024, Somaliland signed a naval agreement with Ethiopia (see Fides 3/1/2024), which aroused the ire of Mogadishu because in exchange for the concession of a naval base and control of a stretch of its coast, Somaliland obtains from Ethiopia to be recognized as an independent state. Addis Ababa thus becomes the great military protector of Somaliland, increasing Mogadishu’s fears for the territorial integrity of Somalia. Concerns now accentuated by Ethiopia’s supply of weapons to Puntland. The authorities of the autonomous region, while recognizing those of Mogadishu, are at loggerheads with the latter, because they claim not to have received from Mogadishu the aid necessary to fight the jihadists present on its territory. These are both groups linked to the Shabaab and the Islamic State. The Ethiopian government therefore seems to be inserting itself into the tensions between Puntland and Somalia to widen its room for maneuver in the area. A few days after the tough stance taken by the government of Mogadishu, protests have arrived from Addis Ababa over the arrival in Somalia of Egyptian military supplies destined for the local armed forces. This is the second delivery of weapons by Cairo under the military agreement signed between Egypt and Somalia in August (see Fides 8/30/2024). According to the Ethiopian Foreign Minister, the supply of weapons by “external forces” risks “exacerbating the fragile security context” and also running the risk that these weapons “end up in the hands of terrorists in Somalia”. “The uncontrolled proliferation of weapons in an already fragile environment increases the risk of an arms race, with various factions probably trying to increase their stockpiles to safeguard their own interests,” echoed his colleague from Somaliland. Tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia regarding the management of the Nile waters have therefore moved to Somalia, with the Somali government, backed by Cairo (but Mogadishu also has important military agreements with Turkey which is currently trying to mediate, see Fides 2/7/2024)) attempted to fuel internal tensions in the neighboring country (see Fides 17/9/2024). (LM) (Agenzia Fides 24/9/2024) Share:

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/CHINA – The memory of the Jesuit Martino Martini still opens up paths of encounter and proximity

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    by Marta Zhao and Laura Gomez RuizHangzhou (Agenzia Fides) – China, the city of Hangzhou and the Chinese Catholic community have never forgotten Martino Martini. The great Jesuit missionary esteemed by the Emperors and welcomed to the Court of the Qing Dynasty, was born in Trento precisely 410 years ago, on 20 September 1614. Even today his story and his testimony arouse unexpected sympathy and ignite surprising closeness. In the program of celebrations promoted by the Italian Embassy in Beijing for the 700 years since the death of the traveler and merchant Marco Polo, the theme “In the footsteps of Marco Polo: Martino Martini” was the first addressed to introduce the series of important Italian personalities who, at different times and in different capacities, contributed to the spread of knowledge of China in the West. Even the President Xi Jinping has publicly expressed his esteem for Martino Martini. In an intervention published in Corriere della Sera on 20 March 2019, on the eve of his official visit to Italy, Xi Jinping cited the Jesuit as a pioneer of the group of Italian Sinologists who «have played a bridging role in relations between China and Europe, starting from the first grammar of the Chinese language written for the West by Martino Martini to “Italy and China” by Giuliano Bertuccioli and Federico Masini”. In Italy, the Study Center named after Martino Martini, based in Trento, promotes, among other things “On the Road to Cathay”, a biannual magazine on cultural relations between Europe and China. In the city of Hangzhou, a park bearing his name has been established around his Mausoleum. That site protected by the body that looks after the cultural heritage of Zhejiang Province has become like a sanctuary for Chinese Catholics. Currently undergoing restoration, the Mausoleum holds the mortal remains of 15 famous Jesuit missionaries who ended their earthly lives near the magnificent Xizi Lake. Among them also include Father Prospero Intorcetta (1626–1696), Father Nicolas Trigault (1577-1629), Father Lazaro Cattaneo (1560-1640) and Father Emmanuel Diaz (1574-1659). In 2018, an exhibition dedicated to the work map by Martino Martini was inaugurated in the headquarters of the China-Italy Center in Hangzhou to commemorate the 375th anniversary of the arrival of the great missionary in that city (Agenzia Fides 13/6/2018). The Catholic community of Hangzhou organized a Conference academic commemorating the 350 years of the construction of the Cathedral. Six well-known academics from Chinese universities and scholars linked to Catholic bodies such as the Faith Institute for Cultural Studies (FICS), the Guang Qi Press of the diocese of Shanghai collaborated in presenting studies on the life and mission of the Jesuit, in the presence of the Italian Consul in Shanghai. Martino Martini’s legacy was presented as “a strong impulse for today’s mission, so that it continues on its path by making its sense of missionary responsibility, his courage and his dedication its own”. (Agenzia Fides 22/01/2010). The affection and devotion that surround the figure of Martino Martini are proportional to the intensity with which he lived his time, donating his existence to the announcement of the Gospel in China. Martino Martini was born on 20 September 1614 in Trento. In 1631 he entered the Society of Jesus as a novice. After studying at the Roman College under the influence of his mentor, the German Jesuit Athanasius Kircher, he joined the Eastern Mission in 1640, traveling by ship from Lisbon in Portugal, via Goa in India (November 1640), up to Macao, China, where he arrived in August 1642. The following year he was sent to the Chinese continent. Thus he began his legendary journey of cultural exchange between China and Europe, a journey that he traveled twice. He wrote the first Chinese grammar in the West and related works, which contributed to cultural exchange and bridged the gap between China and Europe, profoundly influencing the birth and development of Sinology in Italy. The time of his stay in China, at era of the Ming and Qing dynasties, is a period of great social unrest. The Jesuits, after having established good relations with influential sectors of Chinese society and political hierarchy, are beginning to experience concerns about how the situation will evolve. The Chinese name you choose, Wei Kuangguo, includes all its good wishes: it indicates the drive to defend and support the country and the desire to have peace and prosperity in the world. In China, turbulence and conflicts also divide the Jesuits and Spanish and mendicant orders they even infiltrate within the Society of Jesus itself. The controversy over the Chinese translation of the name of God and the possibility that the new Christians continue to practice the cult of the dead according to the methods specific to Chinese culture does not abate, it reaches an intensity that Martini does not manages to contain, both inside and outside the Order. An event that will have a profound impact on the rest of his life. Travel and writing constitute the common thread of the second half of his life. During the first eight years of his stay in China (1643-1650), Martino Martini traveled between the two capitals as well as Hangzhou and Jinhua in Zhejiang. In the fourth year of Shunzhi’s reign (1647), with the help of Zhu Shi, a parishioner of Lanxi in Zhejiang, Martino Martini wrote the Qiu You Zhuan (Treatise on Friendship, Hangzhou, 1661), proceeding on the humanist register already adopted on the other, Jesuit Matteo Ricci in his work of the same name, the first written in Chinese by the Jesuit from Macerata. The southern part of Zhejiang, where Martino Martini is located, is a region in which Spanish monks also operate. He agrees with the indications of his brother Matteo Ricci and well recognizes the differences with the Spanish Cistercians on the question of the Chinese Rites. Furthermore, the Spanish Dominican Juan Bautista Morales (1597–1664) had already traveled to Rome to express his objections regarding the Jesuit position regarding the controversy. When the Jesuit mission in China decides to send their representative to Europe to explain the situation from their point of view, the choice falls on Martino Martini. In 1651 the Jesuit goes to Europe to defend the position of the Society of Jesus on the question of Chinese rites. Thanks also to his good offices, in 1656 the Holy See issued an edict in favor of the Jesuits. During his travels in Europe, Martino Martini published three works in Latin: De Bello Tartarico Historia, Novus Atlas Sinensis and Sinice Historia Decas Prima (of which had also announced the publication of the sequel). These works represented the most systematic, in-depth and effective reports on the Chinese reality circulating in Europe at that time. In 1657 Wei returned to China and continued his mission in Hangzhou, where he completed the construction of the Church of the Redeemer in 1661 and where he died on June 6 of the same year at the age of 47. After being well received by the Qing court and received by the Shunzhi Emperor himself in Beijing. (Agenzia Fides 24/9/2024)[embedded content]Share:

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