NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival weekend, the Khorgos checkpoint saw an increase in passenger traffic

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    URUMQI, May 29 (Xinhua) — The passenger flow at Horgos Port on the China-Kazakhstan border in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has increased ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, the port administration said.

    According to her data, the daily number of border crossings through the checkpoint currently exceeds 3,000 people. It is expected that during the above-mentioned weekend the figure will reach approximately 4,000 people.

    Since the introduction of the visa-free regime between China and Kazakhstan in November 2023, there has been an increase in the number of border crossings through Khorgos. According to Ge Jianhua, an employee of the checkpoint administration, this year the incoming and outgoing tourist flow at the Khorgos checkpoint has exceeded 500 thousand people-times.

    Meanwhile, the number of tourists crossing the Chinese-Kazakh border by car is growing. There are currently 7 bus routes connecting Xinjiang with various regions of Kazakhstan.

    The Dragon Boat Festival falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar. This year, it will be celebrated on May 31, and the days from May 31 to June 2 will be declared holidays in the country. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Death in custody – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force (NTPF) is continuing to investigate the death of a 24-year-old man in police custody earlier this week.

    Around 1:10pm on Tuesday, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a male had been involved in an altercation with a security guard at the Coles supermarket in Alice Springs.

    It is alleged a 24-year-old Aboriginal male was placing items down the front of his clothing when he was confronted by security guards.

    One of the security guards was assaulted and there were two police officers, who were in plain clothes at the time, in the supermarket who rendered assistance to the security guards.

    The man was placed onto the ground by those police officers, and lost consciousness a short time later.

    Initial first aid was provided, including CPR.

    St John Ambulance attended the scene, and the man was conveyed to Alice Springs Hospital where he was pronounced deceased shortly after 2:20pm.

    The NTPF Major Crime Section Detectives are in Alice Springs investigating the death with oversight from the Professional Standards Command. Police are also investigating this matter on behalf of the Coroner.

    The cause of the man’s death is currently undetermined, and the forensic pathologist is required to complete further investigation to provide any substantive cause of death.

    Police believe the man was involved in an incident near the Commonwealth Bank on Gregory Terrace just prior to the incident at Coles. It is alleged that during this incident the 24-year-old has assaulted a woman who was not known to him. Police have since identified this woman and investigations remain ongoing.

    Detectives are urging anyone who witnessed the incident at Coles or on Gregory Terrace to make contact on 131 444. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    Assistant Commissioner Travis Wurst said “Detectives have collected a considerable amount of evidence and the public can be assured that a full and thorough investigative report will be prepared for the Coroner.

    “Police are in contact with the man’s family and are providing support through our Cultural Reform Team and I have visited the community of Yuendumu today to provide an update. We are also providing welfare support, alongside the NT Police Association, to the members involved. 

    “Our thoughts are with the deceased’s family, our members and the entire Alice Springs Community and we thank them for their patience as we work through this investigation.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Washington Men Sentenced to 70 Years in Prison for Producing and Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that on May 27, 2025, Tony J. Bolen, age 44, and Casey Allen Greer, age 48, were sentenced for Production of Child Pornography, Conspiracy to Produce Child Pornography, and Commission of a Felony Sex Offense by an Individual Required to Register as a Sex Offender. Greer was additionally sentenced for Distribution of Child Pornography, and Bolen was sentenced for Receipt and Transportation of Child Pornography. Bolen and Greer were convicted of these crimes on November 25, 2024, following a jury trial. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced both men to 70 years in prison, followed by a life term of supervised release.  Judge Dimke also imposed a $5,000 assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, as to both men, and ordered Greer to pay $18,500 in restitution to victims.

    According to court documents and information disclosed at trial and sentencing, beginning in October 2021, and continuing to December 2021, Bolen and Greer worked together to produce image and video files depicting the sexual abuse of a young child that Greer had sexually abused as early as May 2021. Bolen and Greer discussed when Greer would have access to the minor and how Greer would medicate the victim to ensure the victim’s compliance during the sexual abuse. During one such communication, Greer advised that the medication he had administered to the victim had not worked.  He stated that he needed something like chloroform to keep the victim from fighting him.  Nonetheless, Greer repeatedly sent images and videos of the sexual abuse to Bolen. In written text messages, Bolen directed Greer to sexually abuse the victim in a specific way, record the abuse, and send it to him.

    Bolen and Greer both have prior Washington State convictions for Child Molestation. Because of these convictions, Bolen and Greer were required under state and federal law to register as sex offenders at the time of the above-listed offenses.

    At sentencing, Judge Dimke advised both defendants that the conduct they engaged in was heinous and victimized both the child involved, the child’s family, and the community at large.  She stated that the intention of the 70-year sentence imposed for each defendant is to ensure that neither man was ever released back into the community.  She spoke directly to the victim and the victim’s family, thanking them for their confidence and patience with the justice system.  Judge Dimke also spoke directly to the victim, stating, “You are strong.  You are brave…this does not define you.  You have a very bright future ahead of you.”

    “The defendants’ actions in this case were nothing short of horrific. They subjected a young child to unspeakable abuse, using sleep-inducing substances to control and exploit their victim,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. I am deeply grateful to Assistant United States Attorneys Ann Wick and Laurel Holland, whose tireless efforts and personal sacrifices were instrumental in bringing these offenders to justice. Trials like this one are emotionally grueling, but AUSAs Wick and Holland remained unwavering in their commitment to the victim and to the pursuit of justice. Because of this extraordinary dedication, Mr. Bolen and Mr. Greer will never again have the opportunity to harm another child.”

    AUSA Ann Wick, one of the lead prosecutors, added, “I am profoundly moved by the bravery of victims in cases like this one. Their courage in this case has ensured that two repeat sex offenders will no longer have the chance to harm innocent children. Justice was served because of the victim’s strength.”

    “These significant sentences represent a step toward justice for the immense harm these two individuals inflicted on the victim and their family,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Seattle acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Murphy. “HSI and our partners remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting the most vulnerable, and we will continue to ensure that those who commit such heinous crimes are held fully accountable.”

    “Exceptional sentencing is appropriate for exceptionally heinous criminal acts.  Certainly, those who take sexual advantage of our young and vulnerable must be removed from our streets and communities and the Washington State Patrol appreciates the many agencies involved in the successful investigation, capture, and prosecution of these dangerous individuals,” stated Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste. 

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    This case was investigated jointly by Homeland Security Investigations, the Washington State Patrol, and Spokane Police Department, as part of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ann T. Wick and Laurel J. Holland.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Greece pawn shop owner pleads guilty for his role in retail theft ring involving hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of stolen merchandise

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Dominic Sprague, 41, of Greece, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to conspiracy to transport stolen goods in interstate commerce. According to the plea agreement, Sprague faces up to 72 months in prison when sentenced. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that between December 2021 and October 17, 2024, Sprague, who was the owner and operator of the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop in Greece, engaged in a conspiracy with larcenists, Amanda Reeves, Shabon Banks, Chad Lewis, Jr., and pawn shop manager James Civiletti, to buy and sell stolen goods.

    As part of the scheme, Reeves, Banks, and Lewis stole new-in-box items from store shelves on a weekly and sometimes daily basis, both alone and in concert with one another. They then sold the stolen goods to the pawn shop, which was managed by Civiletti, for a fraction of their actual retail value. The pawn shop then resold the stolen merchandise on eBay at much higher prices, resulting in significant profits. In total, the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop purchased 37,936 stolen new-in-box items from Reeves, Banks, and Lewis on more than 670 occasions, for which they were paid $290,000.00, which was approximately 25% of the actual retail value of the stolen items. This resulted in actual losses to the victim-retailers of approximately $1,160,000.00.

    Banks, Reeves, Lewis and Civiletti were previously convicted and are awaiting sentencing.

    The plea is the result of an investigation by the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood; the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter; Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan, and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Harry Chavis.     

    Sentencing is scheduled for September 23, 2025, before Judge Wolford.         

    # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bloods Gang Leader Convicted of Narcotics Distribution Resulting in Three Overdoses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A federal jury yesterday in Central Islip convicted Gary Johnson, a Bloods gang leader, on 22 counts of a second superseding indictment charging him with narcotics distribution, including distribution that resulted in three non-fatal overdoses, as well as a firearms-related crime.  The verdict followed a four-week trial before United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack. When sentenced, Johnson faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison and up to life in prison.

    Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York  Field Office (FBI); and Kevin Catalina, Commissioner, Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), announced the verdict.

    “Johnson peddled his potentially lethal drugs across Long Island while lining his pockets with profits, causing life threatening injuries to several members of our community in the process,” stated United States Attorney Nocella.  “This Office, along with our law enforcement partners, remains committed to finding, arresting, and prosecuting the drug traffickers and gang members who seek to profit from the ongoing opioid crisis and stopping all of the devastating effects these narcotics have brought with them.”

    “For years, Gary Johnson, a Bloods gang leader, carelessly supplied potentially lethal quantities of heroin and fentanyl to turn a profit,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia.  “By distributing highly addictive narcotics, Johnson demonstrated a disregard to communal health and endangered countless residents, even causing three individuals to overdose.  With the assistance from our law enforcement partners, the FBI will never cease its mission to disrupt all criminal enterprises poisoning our communities with dangerous drugs.”

    “While nothing can take away the suffering of those who experienced life-threatening impacts caused by Johnson’s greed, let this sentence bring some solace that his crimes will not go unpunished,” stated SCPD Commissioner Catalina. “We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to ensure narcotics trafficking is ceased.”

    As proven at trial and set forth in court filings, between June 2013 and November 2020, Johnson, a leader in the G-Shine set of the Bloods based in Suffolk County, sold fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin throughout Long Island.  The drugs the defendant sold resulted in multiple victims experiencing overdoses, including three overdoses in March and May 2020.  The jury returned a verdict convicting Johnson of multiple counts of distributing heroin, cocaine, and/or fentanyl.  In connection with the overdoses, Johnson was convicted of three counts of narcotics distribution resulting in serious bodily injury.

    Johnson was also convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm.  This charge arose from evidence recovered from Johnson’s residence when law enforcement executed a search warrant and recovered a semi-automatic firearm.  

    The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Long Island Division.  Assistant United States  Attorneys Meredith A. Arfa, Stephen Petraeus and Mark E. Misorek are in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Paralegal Specialists Dejah Turla, Rebecca Roth, and Adam Bernard, as well as Victim Witness Specialist Stephanie Marroquin.

    The Defendant:

    GARY JOHNSON
    Age:  41
    Bellport, New York

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 20-CR-518 (S-2) (JMA)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Utah Felon Indicted after Alleged Carjacking with Victim Inside

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a felon with a violent crime after he allegedly threatened a victim with a weapon and forced the victim to drive him out of a contained area where police were actively searching for him for a separate incident.

    Joseph Anthony Kingston, 27, of West Valley City, Utah, was charged by complaint on May 1, 2025.

    According to court documents, on April 30, 2025, West Valley City Police Department officers responded to a call for service requesting assistance to get Kingston to leave a West Valley City residence. During a records check, officers discovered that Kingston had an active felony warrant and was restricted from possessing a weapon. Upon officers’ arrival at the residence, they witnessed Kingston fleeing on foot. A police containment was established for several blocks, which was searched by drone and K9 officers, but Kingston was not located, and the containment area was shut down.

    As alleged in the complaint, approximately 20 minutes later, West Valley City Police Department receive a call from an adult male who stated he was the victim of carjacking. The victim was completing a landscaping job in the area of the police containment, and upon returning to his work truck, he found a male, later identified as Kingston, laying on the floorboard of the victim’s truck. According to the victim, Kingston produced a knife and told him to “drive” and “go,” to get Kingston out of the contained area. The victim reported that Kingston remained on the floorboards until they passed the police containment. The victim drove Kingston to a different area before Kingston then proceeded to steal medical supplies and food from the truck before leaving. Subsequently, Kingston was located that same day by West Valley City Police Officers and taken into custody following a foot pursuit. At the time of his arrest, he was allegedly in possession of medical supplies from the stolen work truck.

    Kingston is charged with carjacking. His initial appearance on the indictment is May 29, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by an FBI Task Force Officer with the West Valley City Police Department.

    Assistant United States Attorney Carlos A. Esqueda of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

    An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump’s global trade plans are in disarray, after a US court ruling on ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Stone, Credit Union SA Chair of Economics, University of South Australia

    A US court has blocked the so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs that US President Donald Trump imposed on imported goods from around 90 nations. This puts implementation of Trump’s current trade policy in disarray.

    The Court of International Trade ruled the emergency authority Trump used to impose the tariffs could not override the role of Congress, which has the right to regulate commerce with other countries.

    Tariffs imposed via other legislative processes such as those dealing with cars, steel and aluminium continue to stand. But the broad-based “reciprocal” tariffs will need to be removed within 10 days of the court’s ruling. Trump administration officials have already filed plans to appeal.

    The ruling calls into question trade negotiations underway with more than 18 different nations that are trying to lower these tariffs. Do these countries continue to negotiate or do they wait for the judicial process to play out?

    The Trump administration still has other mechanisms through which it can impose tariffs, but these have limits on the amount that can be imposed, or entail processes which can take months or years. This undermines Trump’s preferred method of negotiation: throwing out large threats and backing down once a concession is reached.

    Emergency powers were a step too far

    The lawsuits were filed by United States importers of foreign products and some US states, challenging Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977.

    The lawsuits argued the national emergencies cited in imposing the tariffs – the trade deficit and the fentanyl crisis – were not an emergency and not directly addressed by the tariff remedy. The court agreed, and said by imposing tariffs Trump had overstepped his authority.

    The ruling said the executive orders used were “declared to be invalid as contrary to law”.

    The act states the president is entitled to take economic action in the face of “an unusual and extraordinary threat”. It’s mainly been used to impose sanctions on terrorist groups or freeze assets from Russia. There’s nothing in the act that refers to tariffs.

    The decision means all the reciprocal tariffs – including the 10% tariffs on most countries, the 50% tariffs Trump was talking about putting on the EU, and some of the Chinese tariffs – are ruled by the court to be illegal. They must be removed within 10 days.

    The ruling was based on two separate lawsuits. One was brought by a group of small businesses that argued tariffs materially hurt their business. The other was brought by 12 individual states that argued the tariffs would materially impact their ability to provide public goods.

    Some industry tariffs will remain in place

    The ruling does not apply to tariffs applied under Section 201, known as safeguard tariffs. They are intended to protect industries from imports allegedly being sold in the US market at unfair prices or through unfair means. Tariffs on solar panels and washing machines were brought under this regulation.

    Also excluded are Section 232 tariffs, which are applied for national security reasons. Those are the steel and aluminium tariffs, the automobile and auto parts tariffs. Trump has declared all those as national security issues, so those tariffs will remain.

    Most of the tariffs against China are also excluded under Section 301. Those are put in place for unfair trade practices, such as intellectual property theft or forced technology transfer. They are meant to pressure countries to change their policies.

    Other trade investigations are still underway

    In addition, there are current investigations related to copper and the pharmaceuticals sector, which will continue. These investigations are part of a more traditional trade process and may lead to future tariffs, including on Australia.

    The Trump administration is still weighing possible sector-specific tariffs on pharmaceuticals.
    Planar/Shutterstock

    Now for the appeals

    The Trump administration has already filed its intention to appeal to the federal appeals court. This process will take some time. In the meantime, there are at least five other legal challenges to tariffs pending in the courts.

    If the appeals court provides a ruling the Trump administration or opponents don’t like, they can appeal to the Supreme Court.

    Alternatively, the White House could direct customs officials to ignore the court and continue to collect tariffs.

    The Trump administration has ignored court orders in the past, particularly on immigration rulings. So it remains to be seen if customs officials will release goods without the tariffs being paid in 10 days’ time.

    The administration is unlikely to lay down on this. In addition to its appeal process, officials complained about “unelected judges” and “judicial overreach” and may contest the whole process. The only thing that continues to be a certainty is that uncertainty will drive global markets for the foreseeable future.

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

    – ref. Trump’s global trade plans are in disarray, after a US court ruling on ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs – https://theconversation.com/trumps-global-trade-plans-are-in-disarray-after-a-us-court-ruling-on-liberation-day-tariffs-257812

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: UNESCO expresses ‘utmost concern’ at the state of the Great Barrier Reef

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jon C. Day, Adjunct Principal Research Fellow, College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University

    UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee has again raised grave fears for the future of the Great Barrier Reef, highlighting the problems of water pollution, climate change and unsustainable fishing.

    The committee this week released draft decisions regarding the conservation of 62 World Heritage properties. This included the Great Barrier Reef, for which it noted:

    Overall, while progress has been made, significant challenges remain in achieving water quality targets, managing extreme climate impacts, and ensuring the long-term resilience of the property.

    The comments confirm what experts already know too well: despite substantial investments from successive Australian governments, threats to the Great Barrier Reef remain.

    Climate change is the greatest threat to the Great Barrier Reef and other coral reefs around the world. But water pollution is the most significant local threat. That issue, along with unsustainable fishing, is entirely within Australia’s control.

    The World Heritage Committee will consider the draft decision at its next meeting in Paris in July. It may amend the decision, but the concerns are now on the public record.

    What’s all this about?

    The Great Barrier Reef has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage list for more than 40 years. The listing recognises outstanding natural and cultural places around the world.

    The reef is jointly managed by the Australian and Queensland governments. UNESCO’s draft decision expressed “utmost concern” at the findings of last year’s outlook report, published by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. It noted:

    the overall outlook for the property remains one of continued deterioration due largely to climate change, while the long-term outlook for the ecosystem of the property also remains ‘very poor’.

    Poor water quality persists

    Poor water quality is a major issue on the Great Barrier Reef. It is caused when sediment, nutrients, pesticides and pollution from land-based activities, such as land clearing, farming and coastal development, are carried into the ocean.

    In its draft decision, UNESCO noted with “regrets” that the latest water quality targets for sediment and nitrogen – a key component of fertilisers – were not achieved. UNESCO said the updated water quality plan should ensure targets and actions “are sufficiently ambitious and funded”.

    As the below graph shows, actions from 2009 to now have reduced pollution only by about half the desired amounts. At the existing rate of progress and funding commitments, the targets will not be met until 2047 (for sediment) and 2114 (for dissolved inorganic nitrogen).

    Huge gaps exist between current pollutants levels and the water quality targets. These and some other targets are well out of reach under existing funding levels.

    The draft decision also requests a halt to illegal land clearing while strengthening vegetation laws – both fundamental to reducing water pollution.

    Severe weather events exacerbate the water quality problem. In February this year, for example, floodwaters from ten major rivers merged to form extensive flood plumes along 700 kilometres of coastline from Cairns to Mackay, and up to 100 kilometres offshore.

    Such plumes can remain present for months after a flood. They can smother seagrass and corals, and cause damaging algal growth.

    Queensland’s floods in February discharged large plumes of sediment-laden floodwaters towards the Great Barrier Reef. This Sentinel 2 satellite image shows sediment from the Burdekin River estuary south of Townsville.
    Tropwater, CC BY-NC-ND

    The wicked problem of climate change

    UNESCO’s draft decision noted “the overall outlook for the property remains one of continued deterioration due largely to climate change”.

    Ocean heatwaves can lead to coral bleaching and potentially death. Mass bleaching occurred again this year on the Great Barrier Reef – the sixth such event since 2016.

    UNESCO described as “deeply concerning” preliminary results showing heat stress was the highest on record during the 2023–24 mass bleaching event.

    Climate change is also expected to produce more frequent and intense extreme weather events such as tropical cyclones, which can damage reefs and island ecosystems.

    UNESCO called on Australia to align its policies with the global goal of “limiting global temperature to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels”, and to take steps to mitigate negative impacts from extreme weather events.

    The challenges of fishing

    Unsustainable fishing practices damage the Great Barrier Reef. UNESCO’s draft decision noted progress in eliminating gillnet fishing, which is on track for the target of 2027.

    The fishing method involves mesh nets which can accidentally kill other wildlife, including threatened species such as dugongs, turtles, dolphins and sawfish.

    But smaller nets can still be used throughout much of the World Heritage area, so some threats to threatened species remain.

    UNESCO also urged Australia to expand electronic monitoring of commercial fishing vessels, and to ensure the targets in its Sustainable Fisheries Strategy are met. It also called for a comprehensive review of coral harvesting, which primarily supplies the global aquarium trade.

    What next?

    Despite the significant resources and management efforts Australia expends on the Great Barrier Reef, serious threats remain.

    The Great Barrier Reef is struggling under the cumulative impacts of a multitude of threats. The problems outlined above are not isolated challenges.

    Both the Queensland and Australian governments could do far more to boost the health of the reef. Clearly, more funding is needed. Without it, the future of the Great Barrier Reef is in jeopardy, and so too its tourism and fishing economies, and thousands of jobs.

    UNESCO has now asked Australia to provide more comprehensive results from the recent mass bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef, along with an updated plan to improve water quality. Its draft decision maintains the spotlight on conservation concerns for this precious natural asset.

    Jon Day previously worked for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority between 1986 and 2014, and was one of the Directors at GBRMPA between 1998 and 2014. He also represented Australia as one of the formal delegates to the World Heritage Committee between 2007-2011.

    Scott F. Heron is the co-developer of the Climate Vulnerability Index; he receives funding from Australian Research Council.

    – ref. UNESCO expresses ‘utmost concern’ at the state of the Great Barrier Reef – https://theconversation.com/unesco-expresses-utmost-concern-at-the-state-of-the-great-barrier-reef-257638

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • Operation Sindoor outreach: Sule-led delegation conveys India’s resolute stance against terrorism in South Africa

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation led by NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule held extensive meetings with South African leadership in Cape Town, reiterating India’s firm and united stand against terrorism.

    According to a statement from the High Commission of India in Pretoria, the delegation met with South African Deputy Minister Kenneth Morolong and conveyed India’s counter-terrorism approach, which includes holding both terrorists and their enablers accountable through prompt and decisive action.

    The Deputy Minister assured that the matter would be brought to the attention of the South African Presidency, said the Indian mission.

    The delegation also held a detailed discussion with John Steenhuisen, Leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Minister of Agriculture, along with other senior DA members.

    “DA expressed solidarity with the victims of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and supported India’s resolve to fight cross-border terrorism,” the High Commission stated.

    Another key engagement was with the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa, chaired by Supra Obakeng Ramoeletsi Mahumapelo.

    During the meeting, the Indian MPs provided details of the Pahalgam terror attack and emphasised that Operation Sindoor was a focused and non-escalatory response aimed at neutralising the threat posed by cross-border terrorism.

    The visit began with a meeting hosted by P. (Les) Govender, Deputy Chairperson of South Africa’s National Council of Provinces (NCOP). During the session, a minute of silence was also observed in remembrance of the Pahalgam attack victims.

    The parliamentarians highlighted India’s unified approach and zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. Members of NCOP expressed their solidarity with India and condemned terrorism in all its forms.

    Earlier, marking the start of the engagements, the delegation interacted with members of the Indian community in Johannesburg.

    “All-party delegation led by MP Supriya Sule interacted with the Indian community in South Africa. They emphasised India’s national consensus and collective resolve against terrorism in all its forms. Commended the wholehearted support of Indian diaspora to eradicate the scourge of terrorism,” the Indian High Commission posted on X.

    In addition to Sule, the delegation includes BJP leaders Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Anurag Thakur and V. Muraleedharan, Congress leaders Manish Tewari and Anand Sharma, Telugu Desam Party’s Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu, Aam Aadmi Party leader Vikramjeet Singh Sawhney, and former diplomat Syed Akbaruddin.

    The delegation arrived in South Africa following a successful visit to Qatar. The visit is part of India’s global outreach to raise awareness about the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, India’s calibrated military response.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Nepal takes game to new heights with T20 league

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Glamorgan all-rounder Dan Douthwaite was not alone among the foreign players in being unsure what to expect when he headed to the Himalayas to take part in the inaugural Nepal Premier League (NPL) late last year.

    Taking up a playing contract in the mountainous nation of 30 million was always going to be a novel challenge for the Englishman, not least because the Twenty20 league was staged at a ground some 1,350 metres above sea level.

    “I thought I was going to be constantly out of breath or struggling, but it wasn’t actually as bad as I thought it was going to be,” the 28-year-old recalled of his time playing for the Kathmandu Gurkhas.

    “I think I noticed it more so with sixes. When they got the ball it absolutely went miles. A lot of balls … kept going and going and going.

    “When you think you’ve hit one straight up and it’s a 70-metre six.”

    Apart from the extra flight of the ball at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground near Kathmandu, Douthwaite’s other big takeaway from the experience was the enthusiasm of the Nepali fans.

    “Cricket in Nepal is probably like the Premier League in England … there’s a kind of almost Indian cricket feel about the way people appreciate and love the game,” he told Reuters.

    This was the third attempt by Nepal, which became an ICC associate member in 1996 and has qualified for the T20 World Cup twice, to follow in the path of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by launching its own Twenty20 league.

    The NPL hopes the passion of the fans, combined with the country’s unique geography and society, will carve out a niche in a landscape dominated by the likes of the IPL and Australia’s Big Bash League.

    “We’re rich in terms of nature,” said Sandesh Katwal, the chief executive of the Gurkhas, one of eight NPL franchises.

    “It’s a beautiful country and we’re a friendly, welcoming people. The weather, the hospitality suits international players.”

    Former England batting all-rounder and IPL veteran Ravi Bopara, who turned out for Chitwan Rhinos, said it was a great experience, even if he turned down the offer of a helicopter trip to Everest Base Camp.

    GROWING PAINS

    A modest budget meant the NPL could not attract the really big names in the sport.

    All eight NPL franchises fetched a combined price of under 169 million Nepali rupees ($1.23 million) at an auction held last September. Prize money for the champions, Janakpur Bolts, was around $81,000.

    By contrast, India’s Rishabh Pant, the highest-paid player in the IPL, commanded over $3 million in the league’s player auction for the 2025 edition.

    A rushed first season also made it difficult to recruit international players, Katwal said.

    “Everything happened within a one to two-month period … most international players were already occupied. Many didn’t know about this tournament,” he added.

    “Since Christmas was near, many overseas players were in a hurry to return. From the second season I think we can plan to start a bit earlier, October or November.”

    Nevertheless, the NPL proved to be an effective proving ground for Nepal’s domestic talent, Bopara said.

    “There was a group of players who were full of potential but lacked experience,” he added.

    Katwal said he hoped the NPL would provide that valuable competitive experience, as the IPL has done for young Indian talents.

    “It’s a dream come true for Nepali players … sharing practice sessions with the foreign players, they definitely learned a lot. We also had coaches from India, Sri Lanka, England and elsewhere,” he said.

    “Since the IPL has started, you can see young players getting opportunities and it has paid off. The NPL is also an opportunity for Nepali players, a starting point.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: China Film outlines its achievements, ambitions

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

    China Film Co. Ltd. has been named one of China’s top 30 cultural enterprises for the 17th time in a list jointly released by Guangming Daily and Economic Daily.

    Fu Ruoqing, chairman of China Film Co. Ltd., poses for a photo after a ceremony recognizing China’s top 30 cultural enterprises for 2025, Beijing, May 26, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Film Co. Ltd.]

    Fu Ruoqing, chairman of China Film Co. Ltd., accepted the award at a ceremony in Beijing on May 26. The company also released a press release underscoring its remarkable achievements over the past year along with its innovations and global ambitions.

    The statement noted that behind this significant honor lies the company’s steadfast role as a national leader in cinema, demonstrating its commitment to innovation across multiple fronts including quality productions, technological advancement and market revitalization.

    China Film Co. Ltd. maintains a people-centered creative approach, emphasizing meaningful themes, compelling storytelling and high-quality productions, according to the press release. In 2024, the company released 46 films, accounting for 70.19% of China’s total domestic box office revenue. Nine of these titles ranked among the year’s top 10 highest-grossing Chinese films. The productions have earned more than 140 domestic and international honors.

    Notable releases include “The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death,” portraying the heroic efforts during the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea; the visually poetic dance film “A Tapestry of a Legendary Land,” adapting traditional Chinese culture through cross-media artistry; the dramas “Promise of Decades” and “Revisit,” commemorating the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return; and “Snow Leopard,” winner of multiple international awards.

    The film company is driving reform to boost productivity and innovation, integrating its operations in investment, development, production and distribution through deep convergence of production and operational systems. This creative-centered approach unleashes youthful vitality and a pioneering spirit. Through its Young Filmmakers Initiative, the company is fostering a new generation of creative studios and empowering young directors to boldly create and innovate.

    China Film Co. Ltd. said it has consistently led technological innovation in cinema amid the convergence of technology and culture. In 2024, the company unveiled a two-year film technology innovation plan and achieved several breakthroughs in core technologies, developing China’s own high-format cinema system covering projection equipment, production processes and front-end shooting. Its 10-meter Cinity LED screen became the world’s first DCI-certified LED projection system, marking China’s leadership in direct-view display technology. Following the opening of the Cinity LED Mastering Center in Beijing, an overseas counterpart has also been completed and put into operation in Hollywood. Over 200 Cinity theaters operate domestically, with more than 30 overseas. On May 16, the world’s first 14-meter Cinity LED screen debuted in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, delivering groundbreaking audiovisual experiences.

    China operates the world’s most extensive digital film distribution network covering both urban and rural areas. As the country’s largest distributor, China Film Co. Ltd. has implemented a range of measures to ensure robust film supply. In 2024, the company handled distribution for 646 films, accounting for 87.52% of China’s total box office revenue. Notably, it distributed all of the 10 highest-grossing domestic films and 98% of imported foreign titles, further solidifying its market dominance.

    The company has actively responded to policies for stimulating consumption and domestic demand to unlock market potential. In 2024, it partnered with China Media Group to pioneer cinema live broadcasts, holding over 1,000 screening events that attracted 64,000 viewers. The “Games Wide Open” initiative, bringing Olympic events to cinemas, became a cultural phenomenon.

    The company has also accelerated global outreach, with several films receiving overseas releases and selection at international film festivals. Through its alliance booths at various film events and festivals, it has facilitated 68 participating organizations in exhibitions and negotiations, brokered 11 international cooperation deals and promoted nearly 200 films. The addition of new documentary and stage art film categories further diversified China’s cinematic exports.

    As the vanguard of China’s film industry, China Film Co. Ltd. stated it will continue to advance high-quality development through proactive measures in production, distribution, exhibition, technology and services.

    China Film Co. Ltd., China Publishing Group, Tencent, iQiyi, iFlytek and 25 other enterprises were named to this year’s list of China’s top 30 cultural enterprises. These industry leaders reported total net assets of 695.2 billion yuan in 2024, with combined operating revenue of 639.8 billion yuan from their core businesses — breaking the 600-billion-yuan threshold for the first time.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Harbin embraces sci-fi-themed events

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

    A sci-fi-themed-book fair was held in Harbin, Heilongjiang province from May 22 to 26 alongside the 2025 Children Science Fiction Convention. Writers, publishers, editors and industry professionals examined developments in the children’s publishing sector.

    Publishing leaders and event organizers launch a sci-fi book fair in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, May 23, 2025. [Photo/China.org.cn]

    During the fair, themed forums, reading lectures, book launches and signing sessions created a platform to promote public reading and showcase achievements in this field. This not only marks a strategic enhancement of Harbin’s soft power, but pioneers a new model for China’s sci-fi creation and the promotion of nationwide reading among children.

    At the opening ceremony, six authors launched a public reading initiative, alongside six institutions releasing the 2024 list of outstanding Chinese popular science books. Additionally, the Taofen Foundation donated books valued at 2 million yuan (about $277,808) to primary and secondary schools in Harbin. 

    In recent years, children’s science fiction writing has flourished in China. To better summarize the experiences, events like the Children Science Fiction Convention have also been launched. This not only gives enthusiasts something to look forward to, but serves as a great enabler for future industry development. 

    “The era of sci-fi has truly arrived,” said Bai Yunpeng, an organizer and chairman of Harbin Huiwen Academy Cultural Media Group and president of the Harbin Publication Distribution Industry Association. “We’ve now entered an age where science, science fiction and popular science education form an integrated three-in-one.”

    Bai expected that the authors, critics, publishers, and reading promoters participating in this inaugural sci-fi book fair will come up with fresh content, formats, and ideas through intellectual exchanges, providing valuable experience for future exhibitions.

    A photo captures the China International Communications Group booth at a sci-fi book fair in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, May 23, 2025. [Photo/China.org.cn]

    Yin Chuanhong, deputy secretary of the Chinese Science Writers Association, observed that contemporary children’s sci-fi is demonstrating both diversified genres and a convergence of science and culture. 

    “This genre pushes beyond traditional boundaries, evolving from sensory narratives dominated by scientific wonders to more complex expressions rich in cultural depth and intellectual substance that embody Chinese characteristics and contemporary spirit.” he said, “It provides fertile ground for Chinese sci-fi’s cultural identity and academic framework in the new era.”

    Popular science and science fiction leader Dong Renwei, founder of the Children’s Science Fiction Nebula Awards, delivered a work report for the Children’s Science Fiction Reading Promotion Alliance, which he also chairs. He highlighted the achievements of the alliance, including collaborating with 11 publishers and 39 established and emerging Chinese science fiction authors to produce original and innovative works. The alliance also published award-winning titles from the Children’s Science Fiction Nebula Awards while expanding reading promotion programs to 20 provincial-level regions across China.

    Participants gather for a group photo during the 2025 Children Science Fiction Convention held in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, May 23, 2025. [Photo/China.org.cn]

    He said the Children’s Science Fiction Nebula Awards aim to strengthen the key position of children’s science fiction in the broader industry ecosystem. The event aims to build multidimensional collaboration platforms, promote the development of Chinese and global children’s science fiction, amplify China’s voice in the international sci-fi community, and contribute Chinese solutions to the joint effort of building a beautiful future for humanity.

    The 2025 Children’s Science Fiction Nebula Awards were presented on May 23 in Harbin, with prominent writers Chen Qiufan and Wu Yan receiving top honors in the novel and short story categories.

    Sci-fi critic Cui Xinping, vice chair of the Shanxi Writers Association, highlighted children’s science fiction in China shows three trends: The first is how Chinese sci-fi works integrate elements from popular science, mythology, history, and military education. The second is the support from awards and talent programs for both new and experienced writers. The third, symbolic of Chinese long-term planning, where publishers develop expansive sci-fi universes around award-winning authors, allowing for rapid serialization and continued growth. All of this expands narrative boundaries and pushes for cross-genre innovation. 

    A photo captures “The Three-Body Problem” booth at a sci-fi book fair in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, May 23, 2025. [Photo/China.org.cn]

    Roundtable forums with the themes of “Focusing on Sci-fi, Strengthening Collaboration, and Seeking Growth” and “The ‘Sci-fi Vision’ in Children’s Science Fiction,” along with new book launches, were also held later that day.

    Zheng Zhong, president of Zhejiang Juvenile and Children’s Publishing House, said science and literature have long been promoted in China. “If we were to identify a literary genre that unifies and embodies both scientific and humanistic literacy, it would be science fiction. That’s why science fiction literature is an essential nutrient for the growth of children in the new era and is absolutely indispensable.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Elon Musk leaving US govt role

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

    Tesla CEO Elon Musk said Wednesday that he is leaving his government role as an adviser to U.S. President Donald Trump.

    “As my scheduled time as a Special Government Employee comes to an end, I would like to thank President Trump for the opportunity to reduce wasteful spending,” Musk posted on X.

    “The DOGE (the Department of Government Efficiency) mission will only strengthen over time as it becomes a way of life throughout the government,” he said.

    U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson on Wednesday thanked Musk for his work and promised to pursue more spending cuts in the future, posting on X that “Elon Musk and the entire DOGE team have done INCREDIBLE work exposing waste, fraud, and abuse across the federal government.”

    “The House is eager and ready to act on DOGE’s findings so we can deliver even more cuts to big government that President Trump wants and the American people demand,” Johnson wrote.

    The billionaire will rededicate himself to companies like Tesla and rocket manufacturer SpaceX. Musk said earlier that he will step back from political spending, because “I think I’ve done enough.”

    In an interview with CBS News on Tuesday, Musk criticized Trump’s “One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act,” describing the legislation, a mix of tax cuts and enhanced immigration enforcement, as a “massive spending bill” that increases the federal deficit and “undermines the work” of DOGE.

    Trump on Wednesday defended his bill, saying, “I’m not happy about certain aspects of it, but I’m thrilled by other aspects of it.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Operation Sindoor outreach: Panama backs India’s stance against terrorism during Tharoor-led delegation’s visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Panama President Jose Raul Mulino Quintero on Thursday (Indian time) extended his support to India’s resolute stand against terrorism during a meeting with an all-party Indian parliamentary delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor.

    The meeting took place at the Presidential Palace in Panama City and marked a key moment in India’s global outreach to garner international backing in the fight against cross-border terrorism.

    “The Indian delegation had a constructive and productive discussion with the President of Panama, Jose Raul Mulino Quintero, at his palace this afternoon. The President graciously expressed his understanding and support for India’s fight against terrorism,” Tharoor posted on X.

    In addition to the meeting with the President, the delegation held discussions with Panamanian Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha and Vice-Minister Carlos Hoyos on Operation Sindoor and India’s determination to counter Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Panama’s Foreign Minister backed India for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council.

    “Had an excellent and constructive conversation with Panamanian Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha at his Ministry today, followed by discussions over lunch. He was accompanied by several of his colleagues, including Vice-Minister Carlos Hoyos, as well as two MPs – a tribute to the regard in which India is held here,” Tharoor shared on X.

    “A fruitful meeting of Indian Parliamentary delegation with the President of Panama Jose Raul Mulino at Presidential Palace in Panama City. FM Javier Martinez-Acha Vasquez and senior officials were present. President underlined Panama’s support for India and opposition to terrorism,” posted delegation member and former Indian diplomat Taranjit Singh Sandhu.

    As part of the visit, the delegation paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi by laying floral offerings at his bust at the University of Panama and planting a mango sapling in his memory. Members of the Indian diaspora were also present during the ceremony.

    National Assembly President Dana Castaneda, who met the delegation earlier, also affirmed Panama’s support for India’s efforts.

    Speaking to reporters after the meeting, she said, “The message, which they have conveyed, has been very clearly understood by us. Panama wants to stand with India in this campaign for peace, and we hope that we can defeat terrorism.”

    The delegation’s visit to Panama marked the third leg of Shashi Tharoor-led parliamentarians who are a part of India’s global outreach campaign following the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 civilians were killed by Pakistan-linked terrorists.

    In addition to Tharoor, the delegation includes – Shambhavi of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Sarfaraz Ahmad of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Milind Murli Deora of the Shiv Sena, and BJP leaders Shashank Mani Tripathi, Bhubaneswar Kalita, and Tejasvi Surya, along with GM Harish Balayogi of the Telugu Desam Party.

    (With agency inputs)

  • Eventful day for Bengal over PM’s twin events in Alipurduar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    West Bengal is heading for a politically eventful day on Thursday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to attend two major events—one administrative and the other political—in Alipurduar district, located in the northern part of the state.

    This will be the Prime Minister’s first official visit to both Alipurduar and West Bengal after the Lok Sabha elections last year. Prior to the elections, he had visited the state multiple times to campaign for the BJP.

    At the administrative programme, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the City Gas Distribution (CGD) project in the Alipurduar and Cooch Behar districts.

    The project, worth over ₹1,010 crore, aims to provide Piped Natural Gas (PNG) to more than 2.5 lakh households and over 100 commercial establishments and industries. It will also provide Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) by establishing around 19 CNG stations in line with the Minimum Work Program (MWP) targets stipulated by the Union Government.

    The administrative event will be followed by the Prime Minister’s address at a political rally in Alipurduar, where he is expected to speak about the success of ‘Operation Sindoor’, a military strike in which Indian armed forces successfully demolished several terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

    Political observers feel that Alipurduar has been strategically chosen as the venue for the Prime Minister’s post-‘Operation Sindoor’ programmes due to its geographical significance, with the Chicken Neck corridor on one side and the Seven Sisters of the North-East on the other.

    At the political rally, PM Modi is also expected to launch a scathing attack on the West Bengal government and the ruling Trinamool Congress, as hinted by the Prime Minister in a post on X on Wednesday.

    “I will be addressing a BJP West Bengal public meeting in Alipurduar tomorrow afternoon. Over the last decade, the various schemes of the NDA Government have been greatly appreciated by the people of West Bengal. At the same time, they are tired of the corruption and poor administration of the TMC,” the Prime Minister’s message on Wednesday read.

    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – A general survey of development policy – 28-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament 2

    Development policy lies at the heart of the European Union’s external policies. It aims to reduce and ultimately eradicate poverty and it is central to the EU’s response to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (the 2030 Agenda). Its objectives include fostering sustainable growth, defending human rights and democracy, achieving gender equality, promoting peace and inclusive societies and tackling environmental and climate challenges. The EU works on a global scale and is the world’s largest donor of development assistance. Cooperation with EU Member States and alignment with the 2030 Agenda facilitate the efficient delivery of aid.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Transatlantic relations: the United States and Canada – 28-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament 2

    The EU, the United States and Canada remain close partners, united by democratic values and shared historic ties. Despite navigating complex global challenges, including trade tensions, they prioritise dialogue and cooperation in areas such as foreign policy, security and regulatory affairs. The EU emphasises sustaining these relationships and adapting them to shared challenges, thus ensuring stability and resilience while upholding the international rules-based order.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – The European Union and its trade partners – 28-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament 2

    Over the years, the EU has been moving away from the production of labour-intensive, low-value products in order to specialise in higher-value, branded goods. With its open economy, trade is essential to the EU, which is a founder of and key player in the World Trade Organization (WTO). In addition, to overcome trade barriers and level the playing field for its businesses, the Union negotiates a number of free trade agreements (FTAs).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Development Contributions Policy approved

    Source: Auckland Council

    A new Development Contributions Policy has today been adopted by Auckland Council’s Governing Body.

    The policy ensures the cost of growth-related infrastructure is fairly shared between developers and ratepayers.

    The Contributions Policy 2025 enables the council to recover development contributions from those undertaking development. The policy supports a 30-year plan for growth-related infrastructure in the investment priority areas in Auckland.

    Auckland Council Mayor Wayne Brown said council had a rational debate and sorted this one out fairly fast.

    “At the end of it, growth pays for growth; developers must pay their fair share of the cost of infrastructure,” said Mayor Brown. “Auckland ratepayers shouldn’t be expected to shoulder a disproportionate share of the cost of growth, especially during times when households are struggling. 

    “Given there are often complaints on both sides of this, and we received over 300 pages of robust advice to support our decisions, I’m confident we have landed in the right place. 

    “This is a very significant policy for council, one that enables approximately $10 billion of investment in priority areas across Auckland. We’re doing what we need to support growth in the right places, within the constraints in front of us.” 

    Matching pace and scale of growth

    Auckland Council financial strategy general manager Michael Burns said the council is grateful for feedback on the policy, as it has helped inform a final policy that will enable infrastructure investment to match the pace and scale of Auckland’s growth.

    “This is a complex but significant piece of policy that ultimately affects both current and future Aucklanders. It ensures the cost of new infrastructure is fairly shared between developers and ratepayers, and the council appreciates the feedback from a range of stakeholders that has helped get the balance right,” says Mr Burns.

    “The new policy is informed by our long-term plan adopted last year and also supports a 30-year, $10.3 billion infrastructure investment programme in parts of Auckland where significant growth is expected and delivers quality urban environments.”

    At today’s Governing Body, councillors endorsed a 30-year programme of infrastructure investment required to support the expected development in the identified Investment Priority Areas in Auckland, and adopted the new Contributions Policy 2025 – the two collectively enabling strategic infrastructure investment across Auckland.

    The plans help meet the needs of Auckland’s forecast population growth, as 200,000 more Aucklanders are expected by 2034 and a further 400,000 by 2054. The contributions policy helps fund stormwater, transport, parks and community facilities in new and existing developments.

    The 30-year programme focuses on investment in the Inner Northwest (Redhills, Westgate and Whenuapai), Drury, Māngere, Mount Roskill and Tāmaki.

    The proposed contributions policy was revised following feedback during consultation and takes account of updated information on project requirements, developer and central government plans.

    “Auckland has experienced substantial growth in the last decade and that is expected to continue. The scale of growth means the council needs to plan now for the investment required to support that growth and to plan how it will be funded,” says Mr Burns.

    Investment priority areas

    The increased investment the council is committing to is reflected in an increased development contributions price in some areas. This is particularly so in investment priority areas – Inner Northwest, Tamaki, Mt Roskill, Mangere and Drury – where the scale of growth requires aligned funding.

    Some feedback suggested that it would be fairer for development contribution prices to increase over time rather than remain flat. The council has considered this and agreed that, while still recovering the full costs of infrastructure over time, prices should start lower and increase at 2 per cent annually. This ensures earlier developers pay a similar cost, in real terms, as those who develop later on.

    On average, development contributions in the investment priority areas, paid in the 2025/2026 financial year, will be $48,000. This is down from the $68,000 that was consulted on.

    Development contributions across the rest of Auckland (outside of investment priority areas) will remain on average $20,000 per household equivalent for the 2025/2026 year, less than the $32,000 that was consulted on.

    The policy will come into effect on 1 July 2025.

    For more information, visit aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/developmentcontributions

    – ends –

    Further information

    What is the new pricing for development contributions?
    Development contributions pricing will vary depending on a range of factors, including location, timing and investment levels by area.

    Within the period of the Long-term Plan 2024-2034, areas outside of investment priority areas will see a $8.9 billion capital investment, with $1.5 billion from development contribution at $20,000 on average (per household unit equivalent).  

    Over a 30-year period, there is a $10.3 billion of capital investment in the investment priority areas, with $4.8 billion recovered from development contributions at $48,000 on average (per household unit equivalent).  

    The table below shows the development contribution prices.

    Development contribution costs

      Previous 2022 policy
    (average cost per household unit equivalent)    		 Consultation proposal
    (average cost per household unit equivalent)    		 New 2025 policy
    (average cost per household unit in 2026 financial year increasing by 2 per cent each year)
    Inner Northwest $25,000 $98,000 $72,000
    Tāmaki $31,000 $119,000 $71,000 (with a stormwater connection)$51,000 (without a stormwater connection)
    Mt Roskill $20,000 $52,000 $33,000
    Māngere $18,000 $29,000 $27,000
    Drury $70,000 $83,000 $64,000
    Elsewhere in the Auckland region $20,000 $32,000 $20,000

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC May 29, 2025 0600 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 290551

    Day 2 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1251 AM CDT Thu May 29 2025

    Valid 301200Z – 311200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS ACROSS PARTS OF
    THE EASTERN GULF COAST STATES…GEORGIA…CAROLINAS AND VIRGINIA…

    …SUMMARY…
    Scattered severe storms with wind damage, large hail, and a couple
    tornadoes will be possible Friday afternoon and evening from parts
    of the Eastern Gulf Coast to the Mid-Atlantic.

    …Georgia/Carolinas/Mid-Atlantic/Gulf Coast States…
    At mid-levels, a trough will move across the Ohio and Tennessee
    Valleys, as a jet streak translates eastward across the Southeast.
    Ahead of the trough, a moist and unstable airmass will be in place
    from the central Gulf Coast northeastward into the Carolinas and
    Mid-Atlantic. Surface dewpoints in the mid to upper 60s F will
    likely result in moderate destabilization across much of this
    airmass by midday. Scattered thunderstorm development, aided by
    topographic forcing, is expected to take place in the southern and
    central Appalachians during the early afternoon. Convection will
    move eastward into the lower elevations of the Atlantic Coastal
    states during the mid to late evening, where a severe threat will
    likely develop. The increase in large-scale ascent and deep-layer
    shear associated with the approaching mid-level jet will be a driver
    for the severe threat Friday afternoon and evening.

    NAM forecast soundings along the instability axis during the
    afternoon suggest that MLCAPE will peak near 1500 J/kg, and that 0-6
    km shear will increase into the 50 to 60 knot range. While the
    low-levels are forecast to remain veered to the southwest, strong
    speed shear will be present in the 850 to 500 mb layer. This will be
    favorable for supercells and bowing line segments. 0-3 km lapse
    rates are forecast to peak near 7.5 C/km, which will support a
    potential for damaging wind gusts. Supercells will also be capable
    of producing isolated large hail, especially in areas where the
    maximum potential for surface heating is realized. Although
    low-level shear is not expected to be that strong, any supercell
    that becomes intense could produce a brief tornado. The severe
    threat is expected to move eastward onto the Atlantic Coastal Plain
    in the late afternoon, and toward the Atlantic Coast during the
    evening.

    …Western Great Lakes…
    At mid-levels, flow is forecast to become north-northwesterly over
    the upper Mississippi Valley and western Great Lakes, in the wake of
    an exiting trough. At the surface, a post-frontal airmass will be
    located over the western Great Lakes, where flow will be
    northwesterly. A pocket of locally higher surface dewpoints is
    forecast from eastern Wisconsin into lower Michigan. Within this
    pocket, weak instability is expected to develop along the western
    edge of the higher surface dewpoints, along and inland from the
    western shore of Lake Michigan. Along this north-to-south corridor,
    surface heating and low-level convergence will make convective
    initiation likely during the afternoon. Forecast soundings at 21Z
    from Chicago to Milwaukee have 0-3 km lapse rates peaking near 8.5
    C/km, which will be favorable for isolated marginally severe gusts.
    In addition, 500 mb temps will be relatively cold near -17C, which
    could also support a potential for hail with the stronger updrafts.

    ..Broyles.. 05/29/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS02 PTSDY2 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 2 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1730Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC May 29, 2025 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 290559

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1259 AM CDT Thu May 29 2025

    Valid 291200Z – 301200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FOR PARTS OF
    CENTRAL/WEST TX INTO EXTREME SOUTHEAST NM…AND ALSO FROM SOUTHEAST
    GA INTO SC…

    …SUMMARY…
    Large hail, damaging winds, and possibly a tornado or two will be
    possible this afternoon and evening from the Texas-New Mexico border
    eastward into central Texas. Storms with isolated to scattered wind
    damage are possible later today across parts of the Southeast.
    Isolated hail, damaging wind, and possibly a tornado are possible
    across the Ozarks and Mid-South vicinity into this evening.

    …Synopsis…
    A broad mid/upper-level trough covering much of the central/eastern
    CONUS is forecast to amplify through the period, as a vigorous
    shortwave moves through the base of the trough from the Ozarks
    towards the Mid-South. In advance of this shortwave, a
    lower-amplitude midlevel trough will move from the lower MS Valley
    into the Southeast and Carolinas. Later in the period, a surface low
    will gradually deepen and move from the Ozarks into TN/KY, as a
    trailing cold front moves southward across parts of the southern
    Plains and lower MS Valley.

    …Parts of west/central TX and eastern NM…
    Strong heating is expected later today near and south of the cold
    front from parts of eastern NM into west-central TX. Relatively rich
    low-level moisture and steep midlevel lapse rates will support
    MLCAPE near/above 2500 J/kg by mid/late afternoon, with 35-45 kt of
    effective shear sufficient for organized convection. Initial
    supercell development will be possible by late afternoon near the
    front across west-central TX, with increasing storm coverage and
    clustering possible this evening. Large to very large hail and
    localized severe gusts will be possible, along with some potential
    for a tornado or two, especially in the vicinity of the surface
    boundary. Any upscale growth could result in an increasing
    severe-wind threat during the evening.

    Farther east, guidance generally depicts more isolated coverage of
    storms near the front from southern OK into north TX. However,
    moderate to strong instability and sufficient deep-layer shear will
    support a conditional risk of large hail and damaging wind with any
    sustained storms in this region as well.

    Isolated strong to severe storms will also be possible from the
    Raton Mesa vicinity southward across eastern NM, within a modestly
    unstable but favorably sheared environment. The strongest storms
    could pose a threat of isolated hail and strong to severe gusts
    during the afternoon and evening.

    …Southeast…
    Extensive convection may be ongoing at the start of the period from
    near the Gulf coast into parts of AL, in advance of the
    mid/upper-level trough moving eastward across the region. Some
    enhancement to deep-layer flow/shear associated with the trough
    could support strong to locally severe storms during the morning.

    Downstream of the morning convection and approaching trough, diurnal
    heating of a moist airmass will result in moderate buoyancy by
    afternoon, with MLCAPE increasing to around 1500-2000 J/kg where
    stronger heating occurs. Strong to locally severe storms may either
    persist from ongoing morning convection, or initiate within the
    weakly capped environment across south GA into SC. Low-level flow
    will likely remain rather weak, but some strengthening of flow at
    700 mb and above could support one or more loosely organized
    clusters capable of isolated to scattered wind damage, and perhaps
    isolated hail. A 15% wind area/Slight Risk has been included for
    parts of GA/SC, where confidence is currently greatest in stronger
    pre-convective heating/destabilization and steepening of low-level
    lapse rates.

    …Ozarks into the Mid-South…
    Some low-level moistening is expected through the day from parts of
    northern AR/southern MO into the Mid-South, in association with the
    approaching mid/upper-level shortwave trough and developing weak
    cyclone. Relatively modest heating and weak midlevel lapse rates may
    tend to limit buoyancy, but ascent attendant to the approaching
    shortwave trough may support scattered thunderstorm development
    along/ahead of the front from late afternoon into the evening.
    Increasingly favorable wind profiles could support a few stronger
    cells despite the modest instability, and at least a low probability
    threat of damaging wind, hail, and a tornado could evolve by
    evening. Greater probabilities may need to be considered for parts
    of this region, if trends support greater destabilization than
    currently expected.

    ..Dean/Thornton.. 05/29/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1300Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Thu May 29 06:05:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Thu May 29 06:15:03 UTC 2025 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No watches are valid as of Thu May 29 06:05:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Convective Watches (View What is a Watch? clip)Updated:  Thu May 29 06:16:06 UTC 2025 No watches are currently valid

    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Operation Sindoor outreach: Baijayant Panda-led delegation underlines India’s anti-terrorism stance in Riyadh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The all-party Indian parliamentary delegation, led by BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda met Mushabab Al-Qahtani, Director General of Prince Saud Al Faisal Institute of Diplomatic Studies in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday and underlined India’s commitment towards combating terrorism.

    The Embassy of India in Riyadh shared on X: “The All-Party delegation led by @PandaJay met H.E. Dr. Mushabab Al-Qahtani, DG, Prince Saud Al Faisal Institute of Diplomatic Studies @KSAPSAIDS & conveyed India’s unwavering commitment to combat terrorism in its all forms. The delegation also discussed India-Saudi Arabia strategic ties.”

    The delegation highlighted the significance of Operation Sindoor and India’s continued fight against Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism in Riyadh after concluding successful engagements in Kuwait and Bahrain.

    “India’s stand on terrorism is resolute and uncompromising – a message we bring to Saudi Arabia with our all-party delegation. Appreciate the warm welcome by Abdulrahman Alharbi, Chair of the Saudi Arabia-India Friendship Committee of the Sura Council, as we begin key engagements to strengthen our growing partnership,” Panda posted on X.

    The delegation arrived in Riyadh early on Wednesday (Indian time) and later interacted with India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Khan, at the India House.

    The delegation also offered floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh.

    “Along with my colleagues from the all-party delegation, offered floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, honouring his timeless message of peace, non-violence & tolerance. We also had a detailed interaction with Ambassador Suhel Khan, reaffirming India’s resolute stand against terrorism and commitment to global peace,” Panda posted on X.

    During the three-day visit, the delegation will interact with a cross-section of political dignitaries, government officials, thought leaders, business and media representatives. They will also engage with members of the Indian community, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh said in a statement.

    As part of their concluding day of engagements in Kuwait on Tuesday, the delegation undertook a series of media engagements and cultural visits aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and highlighting India’s united stance against terrorism.

    “The delegation concluded its highly productive visit to Kuwait by effectively conveying India’s message of ‘Zero Tolerance’ and ‘New Normal’ against terrorism to a variety of interlocutors in Kuwait, including the Government, civil society, media, think tanks, opinion-makers and members of the Indian community,” said the Indian Embassy in Kuwait.

    The delegation also includes BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, BJP MP Phangnon Konyak, BJP MP Rekha Sharma, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Asaduddin Owaisi, BJP MP Satnam Singh Sandhu, Ghulam Nabi Azad and former Indian diplomat Harsh Vardhan Shringla.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Operation Sindoor outreach: Ravi Shankar Prasad-led delegation heads to Denmark after concluding Rome visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A nine-member Indian parliamentary delegation led by BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad will reach Denmark on Thursday after concluding a diplomatic outreach visit to Italy, where they emphasised India’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism.

    In Copenhagen, the Indian parliamentarians will highlight the significance of Operation Sindoor and India’s continuing battle against Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism.

    The delegation will interact with Danish parliamentarians, political parties, members of the media, and the Indian diaspora to share the country’s position on global terror challenges.

    During the Italy leg of the visit, the delegation engaged with key Italian leaders, think tanks, strategic experts, and news agencies to underline India’s zero-tolerance and ‘new normal’ policy toward Pakistan-facilitated cross-border terrorism.

    The meetings included discussions with Stefania Craxi, Chairperson of the Italian Senate’s Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee, who echoed India’s concerns and proposed stronger bilateral cooperation to address the global threat of terrorism.

    “During our visit to Italy, my colleagues from the all-party delegation and I had the privilege of meeting Senator Stefania Craxi, Chair of the Senate’s Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee. We apprised her of India’s firm stance against terrorism in all its forms, underscoring our zero-tolerance policy towards cross-border terrorism. Senator Craxi echoed our sentiments, emphasising the need for a unified global response to terrorism and proposing enhanced cooperation between India and Italy to tackle this pressing challenge,” Prasad posted on X.

    The delegation also engaged with the Indian diaspora and highlighted India’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism.

    The Indian delegation includes, Daggubati Purandeswari (BJP), Priyanka Chaturvedi (Shiv Sena-UBT), Ghulam Ali Khatana (BJP), Amar Singh (Congress), Samik Bhattacharya (BJP), M. Thambidurai (AIADMK), former Union Minister M.J. Akbar, and former Ambassador Pankaj Saran.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Security: CTG 73.6 Divers Complete Micro Spirit Removal in Yap, Federated States of Micronesia as part of Pacific Partnership 2025, May 14, 2025

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    YAP, Federated States of Micronesia – Commander, Task Group 73.6 (CTG 73.6), U.S. 7th Fleet’s deployed salvage force, successfully completed the wreck-in-place and the at-sea disposal of an abandoned derelict vessel (ADV) in Yap, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), as part of Pacific Partnership 25, May 14, 2025.

    The U.S. Navy divers from CTG 73.6, collaborated with multiple agencies; including the Navy’s Supervisor of Salvage (SUPSALV), SMIT Salvage, Singapore Salvage Engineering (SSE), Center Lift, FSM U.S. Embassy office, and Yap local agencies to remove the MV Micro Spirit. The team installed roller bags to relocate the wreck and employed a salvage chisel to conduct wreck-in-place operations into smaller sections for disposal. The sections were then transported to an at-sea designated disposal site approved by the Yap State government for its final resting place.

    Micro Spirit was one of six Japanese-built cargo vessels procured by the FSM government under a Japanese grant aid scheme between 1976 and 1978. The vessels were used by FSM to ferry passengers and cargo between the outer islands of the country. It is estimated that the vessel had been abandoned in place for over 10 years exposed to the elements. Micro Spirit developed severe structural problems – including an 11- degree starboard list and active seal leaks until it deteriorated beyond repair becoming an environmental and safety hazard.

    “The Micro Spirit’s disposal addresses significant environmental and safety concerns posed by the vessel’s presence in Colonia Harbor.” said Senior Chief Navy Diver Melissa Nguyen-Alarcon, Master Diver assigned to CTG 73.6. “Simultaneously, our divers were able to learn invaluable knowledge from their commercial counterparts from SMIT Salvage, SSE and Center Lift.”

    CTG 73.6 divers and personnel from SMIT Salvage and SSE worked together to remove hazardous materials including oil, lubricants, and large quantities of garbage and debris. Their efforts ensured that Micro Spirit was environmentally ready for disposal.

    “Over the years, the Micro Spirit accumulated substantial amount of debris and was cluttering the shores of Yap,” said Lt. Erik Jorde, Officer-in-Charge assigned to CTG 73.6. “Our team collaborated with SSE, SMIT, Center Lift and with local Yapese government agencies to successfully remove the vessel. This is a crucial step for the upcoming MILCON projects.”

    Micro Spirit was ultimately disposed at a pre-designated site, approved by the Yap Governor’s office, located approximately 11 nautical miles northwest of Yap.

    The removal of Micro Spirit contributed to the strong relationships and enduring trust between the United States and the FSM.

    “This mission has allowed CTG 73.6 to further develop their collective expertise and experience,” said LT Kahra Kelty, Acting U.S. 7th Fleet Salvage Officer. “As the designated Executive Agent for salvage and diving operations at CTF-73, it is our responsibility to continually enhance our organic capabilities while also strengthening our relationships with our partners in FSM.”

    CTG 73.6 is currently deployed to Yap, FSM. Renowned as the U.S. Seventh Fleet’s premier maritime emergency response and salvage force, CTG 73.6 exemplifies the U.S. Navy’s commitment to aiding communities in need and providing swift assistance during times of crisis. They will be removing a total of two ADVs while deployed in Yap.

    -30-

    Date Taken: 05.14.2025
    Date Posted: 05.29.2025 01:22
    Story ID: 499143
    Location: FM
    Web Views: 1
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, CTG 73.6 Divers Complete Micro Spirit Removal in Yap, Federated States of Micronesia as part of Pacific Partnership 2025, May 14, 2025, by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Result of the Daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction held on May 29, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 1-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 25,000
    Total amount of bids received (in ₹ crore) 3,335
    Amount allotted (in ₹ crore) 3,335
    Cut off Rate (%) 6.01
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 6.01
    Partial Allotment Percentage of bids received at cut off rate (%) NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/426

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • US judge blocks Trump from suspending Biden-era migrant ‘parole’ programs

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A U.S. federal judge on Wednesday ordered President Donald Trump’s administration to resume processing applications from migrants seeking work permits or more lasting immigration status who are living in the country temporarily under “parole” programs.

    The ruling by District Judge Indira Talwani in Boston will provide relief to thousands of migrants from Afghanistan, Latin America, and Ukraine who were granted a two-year “parole” to live in the country under programs established by Democratic former President Joe Biden’s administration.

    The same judge had previously blocked the Trump administration from revoking the parole status of hundreds of thousands of Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans. The administration has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to pause her decision.

    Talwani, an appointee of Democratic former President Barack Obama, rejected the Trump administration’s claim that suspending the parole programs was within its broad discretion to direct immigration policy.

    Federal law still requires agencies under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to follow a lengthy process for granting or denying parole and other immigration relief, she wrote in siding with migrants pursuing a class action lawsuit.

    “We are pleased that the court has again rightly recognized the harm the government’s arbitrary decision-making has inflicted on innocent people,” Anwen Hughes, a lawyer for the plaintiffs at Human Rights First, said in a statement.

    The Homeland Security Department did not respond to requests for comment.

    The ruling came on the same day as a U.S. trade court decision to block Trump’s tariffs from going into effect, delivering simultaneous blows to two of the president’s core agendas around trade and immigration.

    The decision came in a lawsuit challenging a pause on the processing of applications from Ukrainian, Afghan, Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, and Venezuelan migrants either seeking to be granted entry through the parole process or who have already been granted that status and are seeking to stay.

    Talwani’s decision focused on policies adopted after Trump on his first day back in office on January 20 signed an executive order directing it to end the Biden-era parole program.

    In a memo that day, Acting Homeland Security Secretary Benjamine Huffman directed agencies under his purview to pause, modify or terminate any categorical parole programs, which he asserted were not authorized by law as parole could only be granted on a case-by-case basis.

    DHS officials subsequently stopped processing new parole applications and in mid-February barred staff from considering requests from migrants from Ukraine and Latin America who had already been granted parole to pursue other forms of immigration status, such as asylum or temporary protected status.

    (Reuters)

  • PM Modi chairs PRAGATI meeting, reviews infra projects worth over ₹62,000 crore

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesdy, chaired the PRAGATI meeting, the ICT-based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation, involving the Centre and state governments, where projects worth over Rs 62,000 crore were reviewed.

    These projects span critical sectors including Road Transport, Power, and Water Resources, and are being implemented across several States and Union Territories.

    The Prime Minister stressed on the need for removing implementation bottlenecks and ensuring timely completion. He underlined that delays in such projects lead to cost escalations and hinder the delivery of essential infrastructure and services to the public. He called for greater efficiency and accountability from all stakeholders.

    The Prime Minister also reviewed the status of public grievances related to the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA). He directed State Governments to ensure that all eligible real estate projects are mandatorily registered under the RERA Act. Emphasising the importance of strict compliance with the law, the Prime Minister said timely and quality grievance redressal is crucial to protecting the interests of homebuyers and restoring trust in the housing sector.

    During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi also reviewed best practices in India’s growing semiconductor ecosystem. He encouraged the adoption of successful initiatives and models across States and Union Territories to further strengthen the National Semiconductor Mission.

    So far, a total of 373 projects, with a cumulative value of around ₹20.64 lakh crore, have been reviewed in PRAGATI meetings. The platform continues to play a key role in enhancing governance and accelerating infrastructure development across the country.

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Domestic violence and firearm offences – Leanyer

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Strike Force Lyra, with specialist assistance from the Territory Response Group and Dog Operations Unit, have arrested a 27-year-old male in relation to domestic violence and firearm offences in Leanyer yesterday afternoon.

    On Saturday, the male attended a residence in company of two other persons and allegedly demanded money from a female victim before threatening to shoot and kill her. The victim is believed to be known to him. The offender allegedly continued assaulting and threatening the victim for some time and demanded the victim to remove her jewellery before he fled the scene.

    Later that day, the alleged offender returned to the victim’s residence and made further threats.

    On 28 May 2025, police executed a coordinated high-risk apprehension resulting in the alleged offender being apprehended in Leanyer without incident. During the arrest, the offender was located in possession of a firearm and a machete, concealed within his clothing.

    He has since been charged with:

    • Aggravated assault
    • Assault with intent to steal – Aggravated
    • Make a threat to kill a person
    • Trespass
    • Drive Unlicenced
    • Possess / Carry / Use Controlled Weapon
    • Possess / Use Firearm while Unlicensed
    • Possess Unregistered Firearm
    • Going armed in Public

    He was remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

    Strike Force Lyra continues to actively seek out those who commit Domestic and Family Violence offences. Domestic and Family Violence has no place in our community, and we appreciate the brave victim-survivors and witnesses who report these incidents to Police.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News –