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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Lisa D Cook: Opening remarks on productivity dynamics

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Good afternoon. Thank you for moderating, Peter. It is an honor to be with you today, and it is always great to be back at Stanford and at the Hoover Institution. I spent several formative years of my career here, including as a National Fellow, and always enjoy returning. And it is a privilege to share the panel with Dr. Schnabel, and Presidents Musalem and Hammack. I look forward to our discussion.1

    Before that, I would like to briefly discuss a topic I see as critical to the future path of the economy: productivity growth. Productivity growth has been surprisingly strong in recent years, and this has influenced my view of the appropriate stance of monetary policy. I will also explore two ongoing developments that are likely to influence productivity growth moving forward: changes to trade policy and the wider adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). Productivity dynamics are something I have long studied closely and will continue to pay careful attention to as I consider the appropriate stance of monetary policy.

    It is helpful to start by looking back about three years to the middle of 2022. At that point, the global economy had largely reopened after pandemic closures, a historic amount of federal support had been deployed, and unemployment was falling toward a half-century low. But supply disruptions persisted, and the 12-month inflation rate reached its peak at over 7 percent. The challenge for Federal Reserve policymakers was clear: Move inflation back toward its 2 percent target while maintaining the health of the labor market. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), which I joined that year, began to raise the federal funds rate from near zero, ultimately reaching just above 5 percent by mid-2023. Many forecasters predicted that a recession in 2023 was more likely than not. And yet, one did not materialize. Instead, inflation came down considerably, while unemployment remained low. How did this unusual and welcome outcome happen?

    Two notable factors were the unwinding of pandemic-era conditions that previously constrained the supply of both goods and labor in conjunction with restrictive monetary policy that contributed to a moderation in aggregate demand. Today, I would like to call attention to a third factor: a greater-than-usual increase in productivity during the pandemic recovery.

    Prior to the pandemic, from 2007 to 2019, productivity growth in the business sector averaged 1.5 percent annually. In the past five years productivity growth accelerated to 2 percent. While some of the productivity gains may reflect situations unique to the reopening of the economy, it is notable that the level of productivity, as measured by output per hour, remained above trend throughout 2023 and 2024.2 This increase in productivity was partially driven by pandemic labor shortages themselves. When it was difficult to find employees, as many Americans retired or stepped out of the labor force, many businesses innovated. For example, restaurants adopted online ordering apps and retailers accelerated the implementation of self-checkout systems.3 These changes improved efficiency and contributed to an expansion in potential gross domestic product (GDP). As a result, price pressures eased from their peak while demand remained strong.

    Improved productivity is widely beneficial to the economy. It allows workers to receive pay raises without companies needing to further increase prices and helps ensure consumers have access to the products and services they demand. Furthermore, and particularly relevant to me as a monetary policymaker, a rise in potential output lessens the need to use monetary policy to slow demand. This effect is good for the obvious reason that it allows for increasing economic growth without higher inflation. But importantly, it also lowers the risk of a policy overshoot that could cause the unemployment rate to rise.

    Now that I have reviewed the role that productivity growth played in the post-pandemic recovery, I would like to focus on two countervailing forces on productivity that I am currently studying. These are changes to trade policy and the growth of AI.

    I expect to see a drag on productivity in the near term stemming from the recent changes to trade policy and the related uncertainty, for several reasons. First, uncertainty around trade policy is likely to reduce business investment going forward. At this time, firms do not know the ultimate level and incidence of tariffs or their duration. Firms contemplating large investments might observe conditions that could hold under the paradox of thrift, wondering whether they could get a better deal if they just wait. Higher costs of imported materials and components could also cause firms to delay or scale back their investment plans. This reduction in capital formation can lead to slower technological innovation and adoption and decreased overall efficiency in production processes. Second, protectionist trade policies, while intended to support domestic industries, may inadvertently lead to a less competitive environment, if they prop up less efficient firms. And third, any supply-chain disruptions resulting from the policy changes would make production slower and less efficient. These disruptions can lead to inventory mismatches, production delays, and increased costs as firms scramble to find alternative suppliers or redesign their products to accommodate new input constraints. This set of disruptions could pose a particular challenge for monetary policymakers. A reduction in potential GDP means less slack in the economy, which, in turn, means greater inflationary pressure. According to the Taylor Principle, for which no explanation is needed at this conference, taming higher inflation requires a higher policy rate. I believe that keeping inflation expectations credibly anchored is essential. Therefore, all else equal, lower productivity could cause me to support keeping rates at a higher level for longer.

    The second ongoing economic development I see altering productivity is the rapidly expanding use of AI. I view this emerging technology as likely to have a significant positive effect on productivity growth. In fact, I see AI as poised to be at least as transformative as other general purpose technologies, such as the printing press, the steam engine, and the internet. With wider adoption of AI, we could have a surge in potential output.

    As I have discussed in several recent speeches, AI has the potential to revolutionize numerous sectors of our economy.4 We already see AI assistants boosting productivity in customer service, software development, and medical diagnosis. AI’s ability to process and analyze vast amounts of data could lead to breakthroughs in scientific research and innovation, resulting in an increased arrival rate of new ideas, further amplifying its effect on productivity.

    Of course, an AI productivity boom would come with its own set of challenges. If potential output expands too rapidly, it could leave slack in the economy and the labor market. Moreover, the productivity gains from AI may not be uniform across all sectors, job types, or tasks, leading to a transitional period as the labor market adjusts. Despite these challenges, I am optimistic about AI and its potential to drive significant productivity growth in the coming years.

    To summarize, I see an important role for productivity growth to play in assisting FOMC policymakers to achieve our dual-mandate goals. This dynamic played out, alongside other factors, in recent years when inflation eased from historic highs while the labor market remained solid. Two currently unfolding economic events are likely to influence productivity growth in the coming years-specifically, changes to trade policy and the expansion of AI. Those two developments may prove to run counter to each other, but it is too soon to predict precisely. I will be closely monitoring developments in this space. I look forward to engaging with those studying this topic including, I am sure, many in this room.

    Thank you. I look forward to the discussion.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Philip N Jefferson: Economic outlook

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Thank you, President Williams. It is wonderful to be back in New York, and it is an honor to speak to you, the directors and advisers to the Second District. You all play an extremely important role for the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and, indeed, for the entirety of the Federal Reserve System. You, and your peers around the country, inform President Williams and the other Bank presidents about how you see the economy unfolding in your communities and in your industries. The presidents, in turn, share that vital information with all the members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) so that we can make the best monetary policy decisions to benefit all Americans. Thank you for the important contributions.

    In the spirit of sharing information, I thought it would be helpful to share with you my economic outlook. First, I will discuss how I see recent economic activity. Next, I will talk about developments pertaining to both sides of our dual mandate, maximum employment and price stability. Finally, I will offer my current view of monetary policy.

    Economic Activity

    While the economy entered a period of heightened uncertainty this year, the underlying data through the first quarter showed resilience. As you can see in figure 1, gross domestic product (GDP) contracted slightly by 0.3 percent in the first quarter, on an annualized basis, after expanding at a 2.4 percent rate in the fourth quarter of 2024. That change, however, overstates the deceleration in activity. A surge in imports apparently ahead of anticipated changes to trade policy did not seem to be reflected fully in inventory or spending data. That misalignment complicated the interpretation of measured GDP data. Private domestic final purchases, which exclude government spending, inventory investment, and net exports, usually gives a better read than GDP on the underlying momentum in the economy. That came in at a 3 percent rate in the first quarter, consistent with readings from last year.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Steven Maijoor: A race we cannot afford to lose – cybersecurity in an age of geopolitical tensions

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    On April 22 the Dutch Military Intelligence and Security Service reported that it had detected a Russian cyberattack targeted at a Dutch critical public service. It was the first time a state-sponsored cyberattack was reported in the Netherlands. Which is not the same as saying that it happened for the first time.

    Geopolitical tensions have been rising for more than a decade, but over the past few years they have accelerated. Needless to say this is bad news for the world economy and the financial sector. But perhaps in no area is the geopolitical threat so real and acute as in the digital domain.

    State-sponsored cyberattacks are often very well concealed, so we do not have reliable numbers on how often they occur. But anecdotal information from intelligence agencies suggest their number is increasing.

    Traditionally, the financial sector has been targeted by cyber criminals with financial motives. But with the changing geopolitical climate, nation-state cyberattacks on financial institutions have become a realistic possibility. The aim of nation-state actors is usually not financial gain, but disruption. For them, the financial sector is an attractive target. The sector is crucial to the functioning of the economy. Also, many financial firms depend on the same third-party service providers. If one of these suppliers is attacked, large chunks of the financial sector may experience the knock-on effects. As we showed in our latest Financial Stability overview, a quarter of all reported global cyberattacks – so including energy and telecom – can potentially affect the financial sector through this channel.

    Artificial Intelligence is likely to reinforce the cybersecurity threat. AI makes cyber-attacks more sophisticated. At least some of them, like phishing. Also, the scale, access and speed of cyber-attacks will probably go up.

    Recently, we have seen this very clearly in the context of cyber-crime. For example, by enabling very advanced deepfakes. We had the rather spectacular case of a finance worker in Hong Kong, who was tricked into paying out $ 25 million. The fraudsters used deepfakes to pose as the company’s CFO in a videoconference call. Although nation-state actors use AI, we have not yet observed them using these techniques to create large scale disruptions. But what if nation-state actors fully exploit the potential of AI, and use it to disrupt vital processes on a larger scale?

    When we talk about financial institutions in this context, most people will first of all think of banks. But for you, I think Central Counterparty Clearing Houses and other market infrastructures are perhaps just as important. Many of you depend on them for the trading, clearing and settlement of transactions in foreign exchange, securities, options and derivatives.

    Market infrastructures occupy a unique position in the cyberthreat landscape. They seem to be targeted less, but if, for example, CCPs are attacked successfully, the impact could be very high. This is partly because there are relatively few of them. If party A goes down, it can be difficult for party B to compensate. Their attack surface is also relatively smaller because they offer fewer types of services compared to banks. Also, they have fewer public-facing web applications, and fewer customers than banks. However, the systems they do operate are highly advanced and very important for the functioning of the financial system.

    All of these features make them an attractive target for nation-state actors who want to cause maximum disruption. This does not mean that market infrastructure parties are currently being attacked. But given the geopolitical situation, tomorrow’s reality could be different.

    What makes CCPs potentially more vulnerable than banks is that most of them have outsourced part of their cybersecurity. That is understandable. If you are a large bank, having a few hundred cybersecurity experts is an affordable investment. CCPs do not have the resources for this. To them, outsourcing provides access to expertise and higher standards for cyber and information security. But the drawback of course is that it makes CCPs dependent on external parties, and it makes their cyber defence more complex.

    All this means CCPs need to stay alert. Cyber resilience is at least as important for CCPs as it is for other financials.

    Many financial institutions have taken big steps in recent years to boost their cyber resilience. But given the size, urgency and evolving nature of the threat, we need to do even more to keep financial services safe. It seems more and more that we are involved in a digital arms race. A race with a sophisticated and cunning opponent. A race in which we want to be roadrunner, and not the coyote.

    This is why cyber resilience will absolutely be a key focus area in our supervision of the financial industry in the coming years. Our aim as a supervisor is to make financial services and the financial system safer against cyber threats. Not only by increasing the resilience of the financial sector itself, but also by stepping up the robustness of the entire chain of ICT service providers. DORA, the European Digital Operational Resilience Act, that came into effect at the beginning of this year, gives us additional tools to accomplish this aim.

    To start with, under DORA, threat-led penetration tests are mandatory for the largest financial institutions in Europe. In the Netherlands we have been conducting these kinds of tests voluntarily for over eight years with good results, and we are very pleased that it is now becoming the norm at the European level. The largest CCPs within the EU will be part of the group of financial institutions for which the penetration tests will be mandatory.

    But DORA also imposes stricter requirements for managing cyber risks in outsourcing chains. For example, financial firms face stricter rules for conducting due diligence on potential ICT providers. And very importantly, under DORA, European supervisors can conduct inspections of critical third-party ICT service providers in tandem with national supervisory authorities. We expect big techs like Google and Microsoft to be placed under EU-wide supervision. And, just as with the banks, we are going to test their readiness to detect and withstand cyberattacks.

    Despite all efforts, there is no such thing as perfect cyber security. It is therefore vital that financial institutions take measures to recover quickly after cyber incidents. This is crucial to ensure that services can continue and people don’t lose trust in financial firms or the financial sector as a whole.

    The results of the ECB’s 2024 cyber stress test of a group of banks show that there is room for improvement on the recovery front. So it’s a very good thing that DORA also imposes new requirements on institutions’ continuity plans and backup policies. They need to develop a culture where cyber incidents are quickly detected and reported. They need to have their playbooks in place. And they need to have clearly defined management roles and responsibilities. And this includes good crisis communication, which is absolutely essential. These are all key ingredients for an effective response after a cyberattack.

    But even if we all have our own house in order, that is not enough. Because on a digital level the financial sector is so interconnected, and connected to other vital sectors of the economy as well, that some degree of overall coordination and cooperation is necessary.

    Governments should take the lead to improve cross-sectoral cooperation and coordination. They must continue to conduct large-scale cyber-drills and practice activating crisis plans. The insights gained should be used to enhance resilience.

    Under the new legislation supervisors also have an obligation to cooperate closely with other sectors. DNB is putting this into practice by working with sectors that are most critical to the financial sector, such as energy and telecommunications. Within our mandate, we support these sectors with information, cooperation and ethical hacking experience.

    To keep financial institutions and the financial system safe, resilience against cyberattacks has become just as important as holding sufficient capital and liquidity. So we need to do whatever we can to further boost it. Both in terms of detection and recovery. And we need to work together. Governments, banks, market infrastructures, supervisors, telecom, energy and other vital players in the outsourcing chain. Because this is a race we cannot afford to lose.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Inclusion of “The Vishweshwar Sahakari Bank Ltd., Pune” in the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    RBI/2025-26/41
    DoR.RET.REC.21/12.07.160/2025-26

    May 27, 2025

    All Banks,

    Madam / Sir,

    Inclusion of “The Vishweshwar Sahakari Bank Ltd., Pune” in the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934

    It is advised that “The Vishweshwar Sahakari Bank Ltd., Pune” has been included in the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 vide Notification DoR.REG./LIC.No.S75/08.27.300/2025-26 dated April 07, 2025 and published in the Gazette of India (Part III – Section 4) dated May 09, 2025.

    Yours faithfully,

    (Manoranjan Padhy)
    Chief General Manager

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • The Next Decade Will be About India’s Per Capita Income Rise

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Comfortably seated in the world’s top five economies, India is now inviting the envious ire of several economists, who are questioning its per-capita income. The bears expect India not to celebrate its triumph, for its per capita income continues to trail many Western nations.

    Their numbers might be sound, but their rationale remains incomplete. In the last decade, our per capita income has gone from Rs. 80,000-odd to more than Rs. 200,000, and much of this increase has been driven by the overall rural transformation.

    The decades until 2014 were about deadlock. Policymakers in the power corridors realised the need for a change in India’s villages, but were unable to drive any significant change on the ground. The pursuit of food, clothing, and shelter was known to all, but beyond political philosophy, no visible action was taken. Even the self-admission of the lost 85 per cent did not result in any change for the next three decades, until 2014.

    The policies of the Narendra Modi government have been straightforward. Fix the problem. Address the gaps. There are no delays. Implementation is swift, and without leakages. While the previous government saw discontinuation of its pilot DBT programme because of lack of banking penetration, the Modi government facilitated transfer of welfare benefits amounting to more than Rs. 43 Lakh Crore.

    Beyond the DBTs, powered by the JAM trinity (Jan Dhan-Aadhar-Mobile), the villages of India, housing almost 100 Crore people, have witnessed all-round development. From the decades of deadlock, India witnessed the decade of driving change.

    The first big push came in the healthcare sector. Initiated in 2014, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan focused on improving sanitation and cleanliness, particularly for India’s poor, who are most vulnerable to diseases caused by poor hygiene.

    The program has constructed over 12 crore household toilets, achieving 100 per cent open-defecation-free status in rural areas by 2019. This has enhanced the dignity and health of low-income families, especially women, while reducing waterborne diseases. Improved sanitation access has empowered poor communities with safer living environments and better public health infrastructure. As per studies, infant mortality has been progressively reduced through the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan.

    While toilets were being built across the country, the Modi Government then launched the biggest healthcare programme in the world, encompassing over 500 million people, almost 1.6 times the population of the United States of America.

    Ayushman Bharat is a transformative healthcare initiative aimed at providing affordable medical access to India’s poor. Through its Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), it offers up to ₹5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary hospital care.

    The Ayushman Bharat programme has enabled the poor to access critical treatments, reducing out-of-pocket expenses that often push families into debt. By 2024, over 34 crore hospital admissions have been covered, significantly improving health outcomes for marginalized communities.

    To supplement healthcare and hygiene, the Modi Government also improved the coverage of the Jan Aushadi Kendras. Less than 100 in 2014, the pharmacy stores have increased to more than 15,000.

    Jan Aushadhi Kendras provide generic medicines at prices up to 50-90 per cent lower than branded alternatives. This initiative has reduced healthcare costs, enabling low-income families to manage medical expenses without financial distress. It has also created entrepreneurial opportunities for small-scale operators in underserved areas.

    The second big push came through the guarantee of food. This rendered the traditional chase for food futile. The first big change came to the ration cards. The One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) scheme, fully implemented by 2024, allows beneficiaries to access rations anywhere in India, benefiting migrant workers. These upgrades have streamlined access, reduced fake beneficiaries, and ensured equitable distribution for the poor.

    Launched in 2020, the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana was extended to December 2028, providing 5 kg of free food grains per person monthly to 81.35 crore beneficiaries, alongside National Food Security Act (NFSA) subsidies. The additional guarantee of foodgrains allows a surplus ration for India’s economic majority.

    The third big push came in the form of infrastructure. While the capex increased to more than Rs. 10 Lakh Crore in the last few budgets, the last-mile infrastructure has benefited the people in the villages.

    Initiated in 2019, Jal Jeevan Mission seeks to provide safe drinking water through household tap connections to all rural households in India. Over 18 crore rural households now have tap water, up from 3.27 crore in 2019, saving millions of hours daily, especially for women, and improving health outcomes.

    By integrating Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) with Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Swachh Bharat Mission, and focusing on community-driven water management, JJM has alleviated water scarcity for the poor, enhancing their quality of life. The endless pursuits for water for women have to come to an end, leaving them with more productivity hours each day.

    Launched in 2015, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana aims to provide affordable housing to the urban and rural poor. PMAY-Gramin has sanctioned more than 3.5 crore houses, with around 2.8 crore completed, benefiting nearly 15 crore individuals with pucca houses equipped with amenities like toilets and water connections.

    The fourth big push came in the form of boosting entrepreneurship amongst the people in the villages. People who did not have bank accounts a decade ago are today active stakeholders in India’s economy.

    Launched in 2015, the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana provides collateral-free loans up to ₹20 lakh to micro and small enterprises, with over 52 crore loans sanctioned worth more than Rs. 33 Lakh Crore by 2025, 68 per cent benefiting women and 50 per cent supporting SC/ST/OBC communities.

    It has empowered poor entrepreneurs, particularly in manufacturing, trading, and services, by enabling access to formal credit without guarantees, fostering self-employment and small business growth. The scheme’s focus on marginalized groups has enhanced financial inclusion, with average loan sizes rising from ₹38,000 in 2016 to ₹1.02 lakh in 2025.

    Similarly, PM SVANidhi Scheme: Introduced in 2020 to support street vendors during the COVID-19 crisis, PM SVANidhi offers collateral-free loans up to ₹50,000, with interest subsidies for timely repayments, benefiting over 79.55 lakh vendors with ₹10,978 crore disbursed by 2024.

    The scheme, linked to eight welfare programs via SVANidhi Se Samriddhi, helps urban poor access health, housing, and food security benefits, uplifting their socio-economic status. It has enabled vendors, especially in aspirational districts, to sustain and expand their businesses, fostering financial independence.

    The Modi government has strengthened SHGs (Self-Help Groups) through the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). SHGs empower poor women by providing microfinance, skill training, and market linkages, enabling income-generating activities like handicrafts and agriculture.

    Initiatives like Lakhpati Didi aim to make 3 crore SHG women earn ₹1 lakh annually, boosting economic self-reliance and community development.

    In isolation, these are welfare programmes, but when viewed together, these are going to be an economic launchpad for India’s majority population residing in the non-urban areas. The early signs are already there, in the changing consumption patterns driven by more disposable income.

    To view these welfare programmes only from the prism of development is an incomplete exercise, and their role in enabling 100 crore people of India, to chase their dreams, wherever they are across the country, must be applauded. In another decade, India will go from becoming a $4 trillion economy to an $8 trillion economy, but the story is going to be about India’s per capita rise. It’s inevitable.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: London man convicted of possession of two forged SIA licences

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    London man convicted of possession of two forged SIA licences

    A man found in possession of 2 forged SIA licences has pleaded guilty to fraud and been ordered to pay £2,600 in fines and costs.

    On 14 May 2025, Charles Ibikunle pleaded guilty at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court to 2 counts of fraud in relation to a pair of forged SIA licences found in his possession.

    The Metropolitan Police stopped Mr Ibikunle while he was driving a vehicle, at which point they found the 2 licences which were later confirmed to be forged. The Metropolitan Police then referred this case to the SIA.

    The SIA invited Mr Ibikunle to attend an interview about the forged licences, which he declined to attend. This resulted in a court summons.

    In response to his guilty plea, the court ordered Mr Ibikunle to pay a fine of £1,000 for each offence, as well as a victim surcharge of £400 and prosecution costs of £200, totalling £2,600.

    Tara Moutray, SIA Criminal Investigations Manager, said:

    Charles Ibikunle put the public at risk by forging SIA licences. Being responsible for other people’s security is a significant responsibility and requires dedicated training that Mr Ibikunle did not have. I am happy to see that the court imposed a sizeable financial penalty as a result of these offences.

    We’re grateful to our partners in the Metropolitan Police for their support, not just in this case but for the SIA’s work as a whole.

    Background

    By law, security operatives working under contract must hold and display a valid SIA licence. Information about SIA enforcement and penalties can be found on GOV.UK/SIA.

    The offence relating to the Fraud Act 2006 that is mentioned above is: 

    • Section 6 – Possession of articles for use in fraud

    The SIA is the organisation responsible for regulating the private security industry in the UK, reporting to the Home Secretary under the terms of the Private Security Industry Act 2001. The SIA’s main duties are the compulsory licensing of individuals undertaking designated activities and managing the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS).

    Media enquiries

    For media enquiries only, please contact:

    SIA press office

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The training of forensic experts and the production of forensic examinations were discussed at SPbGASU

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Dmitry Ivanov (behind the podium), Andrey Kokin, Oksana Dyakonova and Petr Kozin

    The National (All-Russian) scientific and practical conference “Improving the training of forensic experts and the production of forensic examinations in modern conditions” was held at SPbGASU. Current issues of professional training of forensic experts, modern technical and scientific-methodological support for the production of forensic examinations, as well as issues of legal, informational, financial and organizational support for forensic activities were discussed at a plenary session, two sections and at the podium of young scientists. In total, about 90 specialists and students from different regions of the country spoke.

    Opening the plenary session, Dmitry Ivanov, Chairman of the Organizing and Scientific Committees of the conference, Dean of the Faculty of Forensic Expertise and Law in Construction and Transport at SPbGASU, noted that the scientific community and the industry need to gather at one site, exchange experiences, discuss current problems and consider their possible solutions. He read out an address from the Rector of SPbGASU Evgeny Rybnov, who emphasized the importance of the presence at the conference of representatives of both the professional community, leading scientists, and students, whose ideas and initiatives will contribute to expanding the potential of the conference and successfully solving its tasks. “The conference is intended to become an effective platform for constructive dialogue on issues, including improving the quality of education,” the address said.

    So that there is no subjective opinion

    In his speech, Professor of the Department of Weapons Science and Trace Science of the Educational and Scientific Complex of Forensic Examinations of the Moscow University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia named after V. Ya. Kikot, Chief State Forensic Expert of the Department of Trace and Ballistic Examinations of the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Russian Federal State Center of Forensic Examinations named after Professor A. R. Shlyakhov under the Ministry of Justice of Russia” Andrey Kokin emphasized the factors of subjectivity in forensic examination.

    “Prejudice, that is, a biased or negative attitude, personal opinion or assessment based on stereotypes rather than specific experience or knowledge, has its own reasons in forensic examination. Among them are providing the expert with case materials that are not necessary, violation of the sequence of methodological actions, subordination of forensic units to law enforcement agencies. At the same time, there are ways to minimize the influence of subjectivity on forensic examination. The first is to increase the transparency of all stages of a detailed study, without ignoring points that seem insignificant at first glance. The second involves analyzing the expert’s conclusion by specialists with experience in a specific examination. This analysis must comply with certain principles: the specialist must record the entire course of the study and document his comments in one form or another, for example, in diagrams, graphs, displaying the most important and critical points on the basis of which conclusions can be drawn. In general, the conclusion must be understandable to all participants in the proceedings,” explained Andrey Kokin.

    Professor of the Department of Legal Regulation of Urban Development and Transport at SPbGASU Ivan Ivanov recalled that, according to statistics, 334 people were convicted of false expert opinions under various articles in 2023, and 317 in 2024.

    “Forensic and investigative practice with enviable consistency identifies and examines cases of false expert opinions, prepared intentionally. The scientific community believes that the responsibility of experts for knowingly false opinions is clearly insufficient and needs to be improved. Foreign criminal legislation is much stricter. For example, in France, for a knowingly false expert opinion, they sentence to five years in prison with a fine of 500 thousand euros. We propose introducing into the legislation a punishment in the form of a ban on holding a position and engaging in expert activity for up to three years. I think that in this case, all current legislative measures will be strengthened,” concluded Ivan Ivanov.

    How to improve the quality of education

    Oksana Dyakonova, professor of the forensic examination department at the Moscow State Law University named after O. E. Kutafin, voiced proposals for improving the quality of education in the specialty “Forensic examination”.

    “Firstly, it is necessary to increase the number of hours for fundamental disciplines – forensic science and forensic expertology, while introducing a reasonable combination of lectures and practical classes in different forms: laboratory work, field practical classes at forensic organizations. Secondly, it is necessary to exclude from the educational program disciplines that are not aimed at developing the much-needed competence of a future forensic expert, but are generalized and duplicate the main legal disciplines in content. Thirdly, it is necessary to increase students’ interest in participating in research projects, including under the joint supervision of a university teacher and a practicing expert,” Oksana Dyakonova believes.

    She also proposed to expand the training of forensic experts in master’s programs and programs of additional professional education in certain types and kinds of forensic examinations for persons with basic legal education. The expert doubted that graduates of a bachelor’s degree with a specialized education far removed from expertise would be able to become highly professional experts after completing a master’s degree.

    Professor, senior expert of RMS-OTSENKA LLC Petr Kozin refuted this opinion with his own example: by basic education he is a civil engineer, and he underwent retraining in expert activity. His colleague is a graduate of LISI (now SPbGASU), also an engineer Dmitry Kuznetsov. Based on extensive experience in conducting forensic examinations, the company’s representatives developed a draft of methodological recommendations for forensic cost (appraisal) examination.

    “In our methodology, we defined the type and kind of cost and appraisal expertise, which has not yet been done at the legislative level. Accordingly, there are no methodological recommendations, although in practice, disputes about cost arise most often. However, if conducting a forensic examination is prescribed by law, then conducting an appraisal study is not. Due to the absence of any legal acts, during the research we rely on information from various reference books. In addition, for this reason, we cannot examine a number of objects. Our methodology streamlines this process and assumes a broader approach that the appraiser uses. At the same time, it does not contradict the current legislation,” explained Petr Kozin.

    He proposed a number of recommendations included in the methodology. Thus, in the case of a lack of information for a comparative approach, analogs of relations or properties should be used, including from the practice of past years.

    Neural networks and drones

    In addition to knowledge of forensic expertise itself, a modern specialist needs knowledge in the field of digital technologies, noted Oksana Dyakonova. She recalled that already now in many examinations objects are presented in digital form.

    Professor of the Department of Forensic Science at SPbGASU Valery Kharchenko spoke about the department’s scientific research, which helps to teach students advanced digital competencies, and also allows the use of high-tech research methods in engineering and technical forensic science. Based on experience, the professor explained that, for example, the use of neural networks speeds up the research period, increases their accuracy and accessibility so much that they can be carried out using a regular phone. Professor of the Department of Forensic Technology of the Educational and Scientific Complex of Forensic Science and Research at the Volgograd Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia Olga Dronova told how an unmanned technical vehicle became a tool for technical and forensic support and an object of expert research. The efficiency is similar: accuracy, accessibility, speed.

    Legal Gaps

    Irina Vishnevskaya, Director of the State Autonomous Healthcare Institution “Republican Bureau of Forensic Medical Examination of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Tatarstan”, touched upon the problems of legal regulation of forensic medical activities and ways to solve them in Tatarstan.

    Vadim Epshteyn, Director of Development of the ChEU “City Institution of Forensic Expertise” (St. Petersburg), explained current issues of collecting funds for forensic examinations conducted in civil proceedings.

    “Today, one of the significant problems has become the colossal debts for completed examinations in civil proceedings. For many years, legislative norms were simply ignored, and the problem acquired unimaginable proportions: by the end of 2023, the debt for such examinations to the expert system of the Ministry of Justice reached about 750 million rubles. Obviously, the debt to experts of the non-governmental sector, taking into account their number, is even greater. In 2023, the Constitutional Court identified the existing problem and ordered the legislative authorities to develop recommendations for their elimination. In 2024, amendments were made to the Civil Procedure Code, where a number of norms that contributed to the emergence of these debts were eliminated. For example, now the code clearly states: payment for the examination is made based on the results of the meeting at which the examination was considered,” said Vadim Epshtein.

    Despite all the positive expectations, the problem is getting worse, the expert added. And it is due to the specifics of the work of the courts and the judicial department: in many cases, the parties who are responsible for paying for the examination initially deposit a minimum amount into the account. When it will be possible to receive the remaining amount is a question, since the courts take into account the very fact of depositing funds. There are only a few courts that are engaged in further adjustment of amounts, since the legislation does not oblige them to do so, and therefore the remaining payment is delayed for a long time.

    Tribune of young scientists

    The “Young Scientists’ Tribune” section attracted the largest number of speakers. The fifth-year student of SPbGASU Yulia Sedykh was interested in the conference due to the large amount of information on modern technologies of engineering and technical expertise, and current problems of the industry. The topic of her speech concerned the logical foundations of expert research from the point of view of algorithmization.

    “My work is dedicated to the creation and implementation of algorithms that work with the help of modern technologies, such as CAD – construction design systems, unmanned aerial vehicles with built-in machine vision, neural networks, into traditional methods of expert examination. I offer mechanisms and specific software products for writing modern methods of certain types of forensic examinations,” Yulia explained.

    Third-year student of SPbGASU Anastasia Savintseva in her research examined complex ethical issues – the lack of specificity regarding the essence of expert ethics and its proper consolidation. “I propose to solve this problem by expanding the list of principles presented in Federal Law No. 73, adding such as responsibility, integrity, organization, incorruptibility. Another option is to form such a general principle as the ethics of the activities of a forensic expert. It would allow us to unite all the moral principles that forensic experts should be guided by,” Anastasia said.

    Anastasia noted that the conference allowed her to broaden her horizons both in expertology and in related disciplines, to understand that each study is unique, and to pay attention to some aspects of expert activity that she had not thought about before.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Happy City Day, Saint Petersburg!

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

    Today marks 322 years since the founding of our beautiful city of St. Petersburg.

    Petersburg is not just a point on the map: it is a symbol of Russia’s greatness, a city of rich culture and science, a source of inspiration for many generations. SPbGASU is proud to be a part of its history and a part of its new achievements.

    Our university played an important role in the development of the city: in different historical periods, talented engineers, scientists and architects studied and worked here, leaving a bright mark on the appearance of the Northern capital. Many famous buildings of the city on the Neva were created by students of the oldest technical university in Russia. The St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering continues to work for the benefit of the city today, preserving its historical heritage, constructing new buildings, improving the city infrastructure.

    We wish our city prosperity and well-being, and its residents health, happiness and success in all endeavors!

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LegCo Subcommittee on Matters Relating to the Development of Smart City observes demonstration of “Smart Environment” (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LegCo Subcommittee on Matters Relating to the Development of Smart City observes demonstration of “Smart Environment”  
         Members first received an update on the implementation of “Smart Environment” initiatives under the Smart City Blueprint for Hong Kong 2.0 from representatives of the Government. Members were then briefed on the application of “metamaterial noise barriers” for railway maintenance works and observed demonstrations on the use of various technologies to enhance environmental pollution monitoring, including the use of an “AI robotic dog” and a “mesh network sampling robot squad” to detect pollution sources, an “unmanned water sampling boat” to monitor water quality, and a drone equipped with “miniature sniffing sensor” to detect real-time emissions of air pollutants from ocean-going vessels.
     
         During the visit, Members exchanged views with representatives of the Government on matters such as facilitating the application and the development of technologies for environmental protection.
     
         Members who participated in the visit were the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Matters Relating to the Development of Smart City, Ms Elizabeth Quat, Subcommittee members Mr Andrew Lam, Mr Chan Siu-hung and Professor William Wong; as well as non-Subcommittee member Mr Edward Leung.
    Issued at HKT 17:50

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CSTB announces official names of giant panda twin cubs (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CSTB announces official names of giant panda twin cubs  
    The Giant Panda Twin Cubs Naming Competition, organised by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and co-organised by the Ocean Park Corporation (OPC) earlier, has attracted overwhelming responses. After a review of over 35 700 submissions for the Competition, Jia Jia and De De were selected as the winning entries. The Judging Panel considered the names to be highly meaningful. The elder sister is named Jia Jia, with the Chinese character for Jia (加) conveying the message of support. Having the same pronunciation as the Chinese characters for “home” (家) and “auspices” (嘉) in both Cantonese and Putonghua, Jia also features an element of family and a sense of auspicious grace, embodying the prosperity of families and the nation as well as the happiness of its people. The little brother is named De De. As the Chinese character De (得) means “to succeed”, the name carries the connotation that Hong Kong is successful in everything. Also, De shares the same pronunciation as the Chinese character for “virtue” (德) in both Cantonese and Putonghua, suggesting that giant pandas, as national treasures, possess the virtues cherished by the Chinese people.
     
    At the event for the Announcement of Names of Giant Panda Twin Cubs, Miss Law said, “As the Chairperson of the Judging Panel for the Competition, when reviewing the suggested names submitted by members of the public, I was deeply impressed by their love for the cubs. Many suggested names carried profound meanings, while some were cute and joyful. All of the names suggested are filled with our blessings to the giant panda twin cubs.”
     
         “I, on behalf of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), again express heartfelt gratitude to the Central People’s Government for continuously providing strong support and guidance to Hong Kong on the conservation of giant pandas.” She continued, “Over the years, under the Central Government’s guidance, the HKSAR has been given the opportunity to participate in the important task of national giant panda conservation. This fully demonstrates the Central Government’s support and care for the HKSAR.” In addition, she thanked the experts of the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda (CCRCGP) and the professional animal care team of the OPC for taking excellent care of all giant pandas in Hong Kong all along, particularly for providing professional postnatal care to mother Ying Ying and taking good care of the giant panda twin cubs. 
     
    The Judging Panel members of the Competition include Miss Law; the Chairman of the Board of the OPC, Mr Paulo Pong; the Deputy Director of the CCRCGP and expert for giant pandas, Mr Wei Rongping; Legislative Council Member Mr Kenneth Fok; Hong Kong, China swimming athlete Siobhan Bernadette Haughey; and the Head of Zoological Operations and Conservation of the OPC, Mr Howard Chuk. Details of the Competition can be found on Ocean Park’s dedicated website at www.oceanpark.com.hk/en/park-experience/giant-panda-twin-cubs-naming-competitionIssued at HKT 15:48

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Adjustment in ceiling prices for dedicated LPG filling stations in June 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Adjustment in ceiling prices for dedicated LPG filling stations in June 2025 
         A department spokesman said that the adjustment on June 1, 2025, would reflect the movement of the LPG international price in May 2025, and the average movement of the latest Composite Consumer Price Index and Nominal Wage Index. The overall adjusted auto-LPG ceiling prices for dedicated LPG filling stations would range from $3.61 to $4.53 per litre, amounting to a decrease of $0.05 to $0.06 per litre.
     
         The spokesman said that the auto-LPG ceiling prices were adjusted according to a pricing formula specified in the contracts. The formula comprises two elements – the LPG international price and the LPG operating price. The LPG international price refers to the LPG international price of the preceding month. The LPG operating price is adjusted on February 1 and June 1 annually according to the average movement of the Composite Consumer Price Index and the Nominal Wage Index. The latest year-on-year rates of change of the Composite Consumer Price Index and the Nominal Wage Index are +1.7 per cent and +3.7 per cent respectively.
     
    The auto-LPG ceiling prices for respective dedicated LPG filling stations in June 2025 are as follows:
     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government announces 30 measures to be implemented by Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government announces 30 measures to be implemented by Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy 
         Mr Cheuk said, “Population ageing is becoming an increasingly serious issue around the world, and the situation in Hong Kong is of particular concern. The Census and Statistics Department predicts that by 2043, more than one in every three Hong Kong residents will be an elderly person. In light of this demographic shift, we must actively address the various challenges brought about by an ageing population. At the same time, we should seize development opportunities amid the challenges, explore new industries and new businesses, and break new ground for Hong Kong in a time of change.
     
         “The elderly account for a large proportion of Hong Kong’s population. With favourable financial conditions and purchasing power, they are a huge consumer group that cannot be overlooked, as they create a huge demand for silver economy related products and services. Boosting the silver economy will inject vitality into the local economy and promote overall economic development, as well as spurring the cultivation of high-quality silver products and service modes, so that the elderly can share the fruits of development.”  
     
         The Working Group has proposed 30 measures in five areas, namely: boosting “silver consumption”, developing “silver industry”, promoting “quality assurance of silver products”, enhancing “silver financial and security arrangements”, and unleashing “silver productivity”. This plentiful and practical series of measures involves collaboration across different bureaux and sectors. Jointly promoted by different policy bureaux and multiple organisations from different sectors, the measures aim to boost consumption among the elderly, develop silver products and services, and enhance the recognition of products and services through accreditation to drive sales, make good use of and safeguard the financial resources of the elderly, and attract the elderly to join the labour market, with a view to enhancing social productivity and building a silver-friendly society together. 
     
     (I) Boosting “silver consumption”
     
         Owing to their health conditions and lifestyle practices, the elderly’s consumption needs are different from those of other consumers, with great consumption potential in areas including catering, personal hygiene and healthcare. The Government aims to boost “silver consumption” through various means, including exhibitions and retail concessions, electronic commerce, the Silver Summit, developing catering initiatives for the elderly, and protecting elderly consumers’ rights and interests.
     
         The Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB) will take the lead in boosting “silver consumption”, and the 11 measures include:
      (II) Developing “silver industry”

         The health and daily needs of the silver-haired group have led to a huge demand for products and services. Silver products (including gerontechnology products) have hence come into being.
     
         The work of developing the “silver industry” is led by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau. The four measures are:
     (III) Promoting “quality assurance of silver products”
     
         Quality assurance for products and services can enhance their acceptance and attractiveness, helping to establish brand value and expand sales network.
     
         The work of promoting “quality assurance of silver products” is led by the CEDB. The four measures are:
     (IV) Enhancing “silver financial and security arrangements”
     
         Elderly people in Hong Kong possess a certain degree of wealth, which provides the prerequisite for developing silver finance. The Government’s objective is to assist the elderly to best utilise their financial resources and financial management tools, and to protect their financial resources through a comprehensive package of measures.
     
         There will be seven measures for enhancing the “silver financial and security arrangements”, which will be led by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau:
     (V) Unleashing “silver productivity”
     
         The Government will encourage and assist more elderly persons to join the labour market through employment support and training, as well as the promotion of elderly-friendly employment practices, in a bid to unleash the labour force.
     
         The Labour and Welfare Bureau (LWB) will take the lead in driving the measures for unleashing “silver productivity”, including:
    Mr Cheuk said, “The silver economy holds tremendous business opportunities. With the joint efforts of the Government and various sectors, we can certainly expand the scale and industrial chain of the silver economy, enhance the quality of life for the elderly in all aspects, and increase their sense of contentment and happiness.”
     
         The Chief Executive announced in his Policy Address 2024 the setting up of a Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy, led by the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, to implement measures in five areas, namely: boosting “silver consumption”, developing “silver industry”, promoting “quality assurance of silver products”, enhancing “silver financial and security arrangements” and unleashing “silver productivity”. Other members of the Working Group include the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (Deputy Leader); the Secretary for Labour and Welfare; the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry; the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury; and the Secretary for Health.
    Issued at HKT 18:08

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority meets with Mainland health officials and delegations (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hospital Authority meets with Mainland health officials and delegations  
         The HA participated in meetings between the Health Bureau (HHB) and different delegations, including a delegation led by the Director-General of the Health Commission of Guangdong Province, Mr Liu Liqun. Both parties exchanged views on further strengthening healthcare co-operation and talent exchanges in the Greater Bay Area.
     
         The Chairman of the HA, Mr Henry Fan, said, “The depth and breadth of the Greater Bay Area Healthcare Talents Visiting Programmes, jointly launched by both sides, has been progressively expanding and receiving widespread positive feedback. Moving forward, in alignment with the implementation of the Supplementary Medical Professions (Amendment) Bill 2025, the HA hopes to continue receiving support from the Health Commission of Guangdong Province to explore limited registration arrangements for radiographers to fully participate in clinical work and exchange experiences in Hong Kong.”
     
         In addition to meeting with the Health Commission of Guangdong Province delegation, the HA also participated in other exchange sessions co-ordinated by the HHB. These included meetings with delegations of the Shanghai Municipal Health Commission, the People’s Government of the Tibet Autonomous Region and the Health Commission of the Tibet Autonomous Region.
     
         During the Convention period, the HA also held separate meetings with delegations of the Beijing Municipal Health Commission, the Tianjin Municipal Health Commission, the Health Commission of Zhejiang Province and the Shanghai Hospital Development Centre. These meetings facilitated experience sharing in hospital management, financial management and talent exchanges, etc, deepening co-operation between both sides.
     
         Furthermore, the HA arranged visits for several Mainland delegations to various public hospitals, including Queen Mary Hospital and Kwong Wah Hospital, to understand hospital operations and management, as well as the application of AI and the HA Go mobile application, etc.
     
         The HA also took the opportunity during the visit of the Mainland delegations to hold a welcome ceremony for the doctors and nurses who came to Hong Kong for exchanges, aiming to enhance healthcare standards and expand the healthcare talent pool in both places through mutual learning and complementary strengths. 
    Issued at HKT 17:55

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ivanhoe Mines President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to Speak at African Mining Week 2025

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

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, May 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Marna Cloete, President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Canadian mining firm Ivanhoe Mines will speak at the upcoming African Mining Week.

    During the event, Cloete will participate in the Women in Leadership Forum, Highlighting the vital role women are playing in driving sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth within the mining sector. African Mining Week serves as a critical platform for advancing gender inclusivity in the sector, uniting policymakers, investors, academics, and mining stakeholders to foster a sustainable future for the industry.

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Cloete will join a high-level panel discussion titled Mergers, Acquisitions, and Partnerships: Building Resilience in a Consolidating Industry, exploring the role of partnerships in ensuring supply chain resilience. Under Cloete’s financial leadership, Ivanhoe Mines has achieved several milestones, including partnerships with global players such as Zijin Mining, CITIC Metal, and Itochu; raising $490 million through equity in December 2023; and securing a $750 million debt package in early 2024 to support expansion.

    Her leadership has also been instrumental in the advancement of Ivanhoe Mines’ flagship projects, including the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex – the world’s highest-grade copper project – in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Ivanhoe Mines also reopened the Kipushi Mine, one of the largest copper deposits globally, in the DRC while expanding its African footprint by entering Zambia’s copper-rich North-Western Province and developing the Flatreef platinum group metals project in South Africa. Ivanhoe’s $75 million exploration budget for 2025, with a strong focus on Africa, further underscores its commitment to unlocking the continent’s mineral potential.

    African Mining Week represents an ideal platform for Cloete to share Ivanhoe Mines’ strategic investment approach, champion partnerships, and discuss the firm’s ongoing contribution to African economic growth, employment, and industrialization. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: 10 years ago Kenya set out to fix gender gaps in education – what’s working and what still needs to be done

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Benta A. Abuya, Research Scientist, African Population and Health Research Center

    The Kenyan government launched a big attempt in 2015 to promote gender equality in and through the education sector. This was guided by principles of equal participation and inclusion of women and men, and girls and boys in national development.

    The Education and Training Sector Gender Policy aligned with national, regional and global commitments. This included the constitution, and Sustainable Development Goals 4 on quality education and 5 on gender equality.

    Years later, however, it became clear that the government wasn’t achieving some policy’s objectives. Gaps remained in reducing gender inequalities in access, participation and achievement at all levels of education.

    The government decided to review the causes of these challenges and what could be done differently.

    This led to a two-year joint study in partnership with the African Population and Health Research Center. The study began in 2022. Its overall objective was to provide evidence for action on mainstreaming gender issues in basic education in Kenya. Gender mainstreaming generally refers to being sensitive to gender when developing policies and curricula, governing schools, teaching and using learning materials.

    The study specifically aimed to:

    1. examine how the teacher-training curriculum prepares teachers to implement gender mainstreaming strategies within the basic education sector

    2. examine how gender mainstreaming is practised in classrooms during teaching and learning

    3. assess the relationship between teaching practices and students’ attendance, choice of subjects and academic performance

    4. evaluate the availability of institutional policies, practices and guidelines to mainstream gender issues and the extent to which they influence gender mainstreaming in education.

    I’m a gender and education researcher and was part of the team from the African Population and Health Research Center that collected data for the policy review. This data came from 10 counties with high child poverty rates and urban informal settlements. These indicators highlight an inability to access one or more basic needs or services.

    The study involved teacher trainers and trainees. We also spoke to education officials, and learners in primary and secondary schools. We carried out classroom observations, knowledge and attitude surveys, questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions.

    Read more: 6 priorities to get Kenya’s curriculum back on track – or risk excluding many children from education

    The data showed gaps in teacher training, as well as institutional and teaching practices at the basic education level. Policy wasn’t being carried through in practice.

    The gaps

    Our study found that Kenya needs to review its teacher education curriculum to make it more gender responsive.

    Teachers also need more training to follow practices that are gender responsive. These practices include extending positive reinforcement to girls and boys, maintaining eye contact and allowing learners to speak without interruption.

    Deliberate steps should be taken to ensure that schools and teacher training colleges are gender inclusive in their practices, guidelines and programmes.

    More specifically, our study found:

    • Teacher trainees had a relatively good understanding of gender-equitable teaching and learning practices. But there was a need to place greater importance on this in lesson planning and in supporting girls in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

    • Gender mainstreaming is not built into the teacher training curriculum. It isn’t taught as a standalone unit. Teacher trainees learnt about it mainly from general courses, such as child development and psychology, or private training. And teacher trainees were unaware that they were being tested on this.

    • There were no significant gender differences in how teachers in pre-primary and primary school taught boys and girls. At the secondary level, however, teachers engaged boys more than girls during during literacy and STEM lessons.

    • At both primary and secondary levels, gender-equitable practices positively influenced learning outcomes in English and STEM subjects. These practices improved academic performances in English at the primary level. They led to improvements in biology, English, mathematics and physics at the secondary level.

    • The odds of school attendance increased if teachers treated boys and girls in equitable ways.

    • The odds of boys selecting chemistry and physics at the secondary level increased if the teacher of the subject was approachable and if the subject was considered applicable to future careers.

    • More than 40% of primary and secondary schools didn’t have guidelines on sexual harassment and gender-based violence for teachers and students. And most of the schools that said they had these guidelines couldn’t provide them to the research team. These guidelines help mainstream gender issues in schools and communities.

    What next

    To advance gender equality, Kenya must move beyond policy awareness. It must be more responsive to gender in teacher training, classroom practices and institutional leadership.

    Our study recommends:

    • creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where both boys and girls feel valued, capable, and motivated to learn

    • teaching gender mainstreaming as a standalone unit, or integrating it into the teaching methodology

    • coaching, mentorship and modelling of best practices to trainee teachers

    • financial support for gender mainstreaming in all areas of teacher education

    • encouraging girls to pursue STEM subjects and careers at an early age through formal mentorship programmes

    • encouraging and empowering women teachers and parents to take up leadership positions in schools to provide role models for students.

    Read more: Kenya’s decision to make maths optional in high school is a bad idea – what should happen instead

    Our findings offer a critical evidence base for the education ministry and other stakeholders. They should put accountability mechanisms in place.

    Only through sustained, data-driven action can Kenya achieve a truly inclusive and equitable education system.

    – 10 years ago Kenya set out to fix gender gaps in education – what’s working and what still needs to be done
    – https://theconversation.com/10-years-ago-kenya-set-out-to-fix-gender-gaps-in-education-whats-working-and-what-still-needs-to-be-done-255400

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Bangladesh and New Development Bank Co-Host High-Level Seminar on Accountability and Learning in Development

    Source: New Development Bank

    Dhaka, Bangladesh, 26 May 2025: The Economic Relations Division (ERD) of Bangladesh’s Ministry of Finance and the New Development Bank’s (NDB) Independent Evaluation Office (IEO), Internal Audit Department and Compliance and Investigations Department co-hosted a high-level seminar in Dhaka focused on embedding accountability, evaluation, and integrity at the heart of development projects—key pillars for delivering on Bangladesh’s growth priorities.

    The seminar, titled “Transforming Development: Building a Culture of Accountability through Evaluation, Auditing, and Ethics” highlighted NDB’s approach to sustainable development through integrated evaluation, audit, and compliance systems. With over 150 participants—including senior level policymakers, development experts, private sector leaders and others—it served as a dynamic platform for cross-learning among emerging economies.

    Opening the event, His Excellency Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Honourable Adviser of the Ministry of Finance, underscored Bangladesh’s commitment to strengthening governance in public investment: “The foundation of sustainable development rests on three pillars: accountability, transparency, and ethical governance. These are not abstract ideals-they are practical necessities. Evaluation, auditing, and compliance are the tools that help us build these pillars. They ensure that our policies and projects do not merely exist on paper, but deliver real, tangible benefits to our citizens.”

    Mr. Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, Secretary of the Economic Relations Division, added: “We must learn from international experiences and adapt global best practices to our own context. The presence of distinguished experts and partners from the New Development Bank, as well as from key ministries and agencies, is a valuable opportunity for dialogue and knowledge exchange.”

    The one-day event featured keynote addresses from global leaders in development policy. Nobel Laureate Professor Abhijit Banerjee, of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, emphasised the value of evidence-based policymaking and timely impact evaluations in ensuring that development investments deliver real results.

    H.E. Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, and NDB Governor, shared her country’s efforts to strengthen project transparency through digital monitoring platforms, offering insights relevant to fast-growing economies like Bangladesh.

    Participants also explored key themes including the role of evaluation in accelerating the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), private sector engagement in development interventions, risk-based internal auditing, and ethical standards in development finance. These sessions were led by senior officials from NDB and enriched by perspectives from international partners such as the Asian Development Bank, the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation of South Africa, the Ministry of Finance, Brazil, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development.

    “Good development isn’t just about how much is built, but how well it lasts—economically, socially, and institutionally,” said Mr. Henrique Pissaia, Principal Professional Specialist at NDB’s Independent Evaluation Office. “This seminar showed that accountability and learning are catalysts for better results. Bangladesh’s leadership in this space reflects our shared commitment to making learning, ethics, and South-South knowledge exchange central to impact-driven development.”

    The seminar signalled growing cooperation between NDB and Bangladesh, which joined the Bank in 2021 – the first non-BRICS country to do so. As the Government of Bangladesh continues to scale up its infrastructure ambitions, today’s discussions underscored the importance it places on good governance, evaluability and long-term sustainability, as well as NDB’s commitment to working closely with Bangladesh, financing infrastructure and sustainable development projects that support its national development objectives and commitments under the SDGs.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: CBB Government Development Bond Issue No.40 Oversubscribed

    Source: Central Bank of Bahrain

    Published on 27 May 2025

    Manama, Bahrain –27th May 2025 – The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) announces that the issue of the 3-year Government Development Bond has been oversubscribed by 203%.

    Subscriptions worth BD 507.802 million were received for the BD 250 million issue, which carries a maturity of 3 years.

    The fixed annual coupon rate on the issue, which begins on 29th May 2025 and matures on 29th May 2028, is 6.125%.

    The Government Development Bonds are issued by the CBB on behalf of the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

    This is Government Development Bond issue No.40 (ISIN BH00010U5465).

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Štramberk municipal heritage site on a new CNB gold coin

    Source: Czech National Bank

    The Czech National Bank (CNB) is issuing a CZK 5,000 gold coin featuring a motif of the Town of Štramberk. The coin is part of the Municipal Heritage Sites cycle and will go on sale on 27 May 2025.

    The design of the coin was chosen in an artistic competition. At the recommendation of an expert commission, the CNB Bank Board selected the design submitted by Veronika Prokopová. Her work stood out with its clean execution and meticulous collage of the town’s most significant sights. Oldřich Škrabal, the secretary of Štramberk municipal authority, acted as expert adviser to the commission.

    “The Town of Štramberk is among the most treasured municipal heritage sites in the Czech Republic, owing to thorough cultural heritage preservation and respect for tradition. The significance and value of this town is rightly honoured by the Czech National Bank issuing this gold coin,” said CNB board member Karina Kubelková.

    The obverse side of the coin features a wall painting from the interior of the Jaroňkova útulna building near the Trúba tower in Štramberk. It is located in the upper part of the coin above heraldic animals from the large national coat-of-arms. On the reverse side of the coin, the designer placed a collage of the most significant sights of the Štramberk municipal heritage site – a neo-Renaissance fountain, the Church of St. John of Nepomuk, a one-storey house with a neo-Baroque gable and the ruin of Strallenberg castle with the cylindrical Trúba tower.

    The CNB had a total of 12,800 coins of 999.9 purity gold made (3,800 of normal quality and 9,000 of proof quality). They weigh half an ounce (15.5 g) and have a diameter of 28 mm. They are issued in two versions, normal quality and proof quality, which differ in surface treatment and edge marking. Proof-quality coins have a highly polished field, a matt relief and a plain edge. Normal-quality coins are fully matt and have milled edges.

    The coin’s denomination of CZK 5,000 does not equal the sale price. The latter is higher, reflecting, among other things, the current price of gold and production costs. The coins were minted by Česká mincovna, a. s., in Jablonec nad Nisou and are available for purchase from selected contractual partners. The CNB does not sell numismatic material directly to the public.

    The Štramberk gold coin is the ninth in the Municipal Heritage Sites cycle. The previous coins featured Cheb, Jihlava, Mikulov, Litoměřice, Kroměříž, Hradec Králové, Olomouc and Moravská Třebová. The 2021–2025 cycle will be completed this year with a tenth coin showing motifs of the town of Tábor. The whole schedule of issuance of coins and banknotes is available on the CNB website.

    Štramberk municipal heritage site

    The mountain town of Štramberk in the Moravian-Silesian Region perfectly combines architectural heritage, living traditions and picturesque nature. Its historical heart, designated as a municipal heritage site in 1969, is characterised by town houses, a neo-Renaissance fountain and the Church of St. John of Nepomuk. Other inseparable parts of the town include its narrow, winding alleys lined with authentic timbered cottages, and the majestic ruin of Strallenberg castle with the Trúba cylindrical tower, which completes its distinctive silhouette.

    Besides its historic sites, Štramberk is famous for a confectionery product – the gingerbread “Štramberk ears”, baked here over many centuries in commemoration of the legendary victory of the Štramberk Christians over the Mongolian army on 8 May 1241 on the eve of the Feast of the Ascension.

    Jaroslav Krejčí
    CNB Spokesperson

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Carer who sexually abused disabled child has sentence increased

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Carer who sexually abused disabled child has sentence increased

    A carer who sexually abused a disabled child in his care has had his sentence more than doubled increased following an intervention by Solicitor General.

    Jamil Talukder, 23, from Sheffield, has had his sentence increased by five years after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme. 

    The court heard that Talukder arrived in the UK from Bangladesh in October 2022 to study for a marketing degree.   

    He was employed as a carer and began caring for a severely disabled child in October 2023. However, covert recording by the child’s mum, who became suspicious, revealed that Talukder sexually abused the child on several occasions.     

    Victim personal statements reveal that the child distrusts male carers since his assault by Talukder.  

    The court also heard that Talukder sexually abused another child and was caught out when it was discovered that he had recorded the abuse on his phone.    

    Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:  

    Jamil Talukder preyed on a vulnerable child he was meant to be taking care of, as well as another young child.

    He abused the trust that was placed in him for his own sexual gratification, and I welcome the Court’s increase to his sentence.  I would like to extend my sympathies to his victims and their families.

    On 27 February 2025, Jamil Talukder was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment at Sheffield Crown Court for six sexual abuse offences.  

    On 22 May 2025, his sentence was revised to eight years after it was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Trading Standards close two shops after persistent illegal seizures

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 27th May 2025

    Two premises with a long history of selling illegal tobacco, cigarettes and vapes have been issued with closure notices by Trading Standards.

    Abbey Hulton Supermarket on Leek Road and Easy Shop on Weston Road in Meir both have history of supplying illegal products and have been subject to enforcement action multiple times.

    Since 2021, Abbey Hulton Supermarket has had 17 test purchases of illegal cigarettes and vapes and five seizures, totalling £28,164 in retail value.

    Easy Shop has had 42 interventions by Trading Standards since 2019 and in 2025 alone, illegal products worth £11,309 have been seized.

    This work forms part of Operation Cece – a national operation with HMRC and National Trading Standards to tackle illegal tobacco.

    Councillor Amjid Wazir OBE, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement and sustainability at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We will not tolerate the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes, and I welcome these closures of two persistent offenders.

    “Our Trading Standards teams work hard to remove illegal tobacco and vapes off the streets to keep everybody safe and make sure legal businesses are not being undermined.

    “This work is part of the council’s commitment to creating a cleaner, greener and safer city for all and you will face serious consequences if you choose to sell illegal products.”

    Anyone with concerns about illegal tobacco, vapes and underage sales can contact Trading Standards on the hotline at 01782 238884 or visit www.stoke.gov.uk/tradingstandards

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: St. Leonard’s Place repair work starts Tuesday 27 May

    Source: City of York

    Published Friday, 23 May 2025

    City of York Council has shared travel advice ahead of the urgent repair works on St Leonard’s Place which start next week

    Having completed an inspection on Thursday, and having undertaken essential safety work, the council removed the temporary lights in place. This is so that over the busy bank holiday weekend, when we also have the Queen Street closure at the railway station, two-way traffic can flow on St Leonard’s Place until we begin repair work next week.

    Work to make these urgent repairs will start after rush hour on the morning of Tuesday 27 May. From 9.30am on Tuesday 27 May we will start repairing the underground damage and road surface, which will require a lane closure. These works may take around two weeks, but we will share updates.

    These emergency repairs will mean St Leonard’s place will be closed to inbound traffic from Bootham Bar with diversions in place. Outbound traffic from Museum Street to Bootham/Gillygate will be able to use St Leonard’s place.

    Pedestrian access along St Leonard’s Place in both directions is still open. Inbound cyclists traveling from Bootham or Gillygate, will need to follow the diversion under Bootham Bar. Those travelling towards Bootham from Museum Street will be able to use St Leonard’s Place.

    For drivers coming into the city centre travelling down Bootham there will be diversions in place. We have added travel information, including information about bus diversions to our website which can be found at www.york.gov.uk/StLeonardsPlace

    York, the Theatre Royal and its neighbouring businesses are open for business.

    Cllr Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport said:

    We thank everyone for their patience while we carry out these urgent repairs. Our team will be carrying out repair work between the hours of 8am and 5pm on most days and no work is planned to take place later than 8pm.

    “While we are doing all we can to minimise disruption during these emergency works, we’re expecting the inner ring road to be very busy so we’re asking people to plan ahead and consider other ways to travel to the city centre. That includes getting the bus, walking or cycling. While some buses are being diverted they will continue to serve communities across the city and information is available at www.york.gov.uk/StLeonardsPlace. York is very much open for business throughout these works and we hope the travel information on our website will help those get around the city this half-term.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Support for those in need in Nairnshire 

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Efforts to devote funds to those most in need have been supported by Highland Council’s Nairnshire Area Committee.

    Yesterday (Monday 26 May) the committee agreed to funding of £2,000 from the Nairn and Auldearn Poor Fund to the Nairn and Nairnshire’s ‘People’s Pot’.

    The Nairnshire Area Committee has power to allocate these funds.

    Chair of the Nairnshire area committee, Cllr Michael Green, said: “These funds might seem like a relatively small amount of money, but sometimes that can make a big difference to someone who might be struggling at a specific time in their lives, or who may be in danger of falling into a circle of debt.

    “The Citizens’ Advice Bureau has proven to be well placed to help and identify individuals and families in need. We saw at Christmas the funds were able to ease pressures on several local families.”

    The Nairn and Auldearn Poor Fund is to be used as a form of Hardship Fund to serve the people of Nairn and Nairnshire. Following a successful trial which was approved in November 2004, the committee agreed that the Nairn Citizens Advice Bureau should administer the funds as part of the ‘Peoples Pot’, which the CAB have responsibility for.

    From November 2024 until January 2025 it supported 41 people in Nairn and Nairnshire – among them vulnerable families recognised as requiring support in the run up to Christmas.

    The total amount in the Nairn Poor Fund that is available to be allocated is £9,031.84.

    This fund is one of many administered by the Council which have been bequeathed for public benefit across the Highlands.

    The Council has determined that those funds, which are targeted to benefit specific areas, can be administered by the relevant area committee.

    At Monday’s meeting members also agreed to allocate £12,000 from the Nairn Common Good Fund to support the Nairn Highland Games.

    The Nairn Highland Games is one of the largest and most popular amateur gatherings in the North of Scotland. First held in 1865, the Games have been an annual feature on Nairn’s summer calendar for over 150 years, with interruptions only during the World Wars and the pandemic in 2021/22.

    Members were also updated on the works undertaken relating to the Nairn Common Good Fund over the last 12 months, and agreed an extension to the post of Nairn Common Good Officer for a further two-year period.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students of the State University of Management are laureates of the All-Russian competition for the best scientific article

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    As part of the annual All-Russian scientific conference of young researchers with international participation “Economy Today: Current State and Development Prospects (Vector-2025)”, an All-Russian competition for the best scientific article was held.

    Students from 85 universities in Russia, Belarus, China and Vietnam applied to participate in the conference this year. Young scientists presented their research papers, in which they examined current issues in the industry, regional and global economy, management and marketing, financial management and the labor market.

    Students of the State University of Management Victoria Kostikova and Yulia Popova became laureates of the All-Russian competition for the best scientific article. Their work on the topic “The Impact of Sanctions on BRICS and Countermeasures: New Models of Economic Interaction”, written under the supervision of Associate Professor of the Department of World Economy and International Economic Relations of the State University of Management Ekaterina Karelina, was highly appreciated by the expert committee.

    Young scientists analyzed the impact of sanctions on the BRICS countries, examined emerging models of economic interaction in response to the West’s sanctions policy, and described possible scenarios for economic partnership based on the principles of multipolarity, technological sovereignty, and mutually beneficial long-term cooperation.

    We congratulate our students and wish them further success in the scientific field!

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Peace is secured when you are ever ready for war-VP

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    lign=”center”>For national security, we need indigenous strength-VP
    Sense of Fundamental duties is to prioritise national well-being-VP
    Economic nationalism is business of the people, asserts VP
    Parliament is reflection of 1.4 billion people’s will-VP*

    Vice-President and Chairman Rajya Sabha, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today said that, “For national security, we need indigenous strength. War is best avoided from position of strength. Peace is secured when you are ever ready for war….strength comes apart from technological prowess, conventional arms strength, from people also.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1927283416380162509

    Highlighting the need for the citizens to carry out their duties, he stated, “ The balance has to be maintained. Let us not cherry pick. We’ll go for fundamental rights, claiming them 24 x 7, and be totally oblivious of fundamental duties!…if we focus only on our rights and not on duties, we don’t measure up to the requirement of a citizen in the largest democracy, the oldest, the most functional. There are 11 fundamental duties. These duties were not initially there in the Constitution. And I’ll tell you for a reason. Our founding fathers obviously expected that we will be aligned to these duties. We will respect those duties. But when it was noticed that it is required to spell them out in the Constitution so that people in particular become aware of these. And these were introduced by 42nd Amendment and 86th Amendment. If I have to  give a sense  of fundamental duties, it is to prioritise national well-being. To contribute optimally for public discourse, public order, public discipline, environment,  everything which is known as goodness in life for one and all.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1927276321232609314

    “Sometimes people wonder how can we contribute? Swadeshi is closely connected with economic nationalism. Economic nationalism means we must consume Swadeshi. We must always take into consideration being vocal for local. This will inspire our people also to cater to our needs. But if we start importing from other countries, items that are generated in this country, that can be made in this country, we are immediately inviting three troubles. One trouble, there is an avoidable hole in our foreign exchange reserve, and this is in billions of dollars. Second, when we import items that can be made in this country, we are snatching work from our own people. We are depriving them of work. And thirdly, more importantly, we are blunting entrepreneurship. So every individual can contribute. What clothes he wears, what he eats, what he wears, his shoes also. Everything. These are consumables. We fancy what is abroad. Unmindful of the situation that we are injuring our national economy. I therefore assert economic nationalism is business of the people”, he added.

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1927275191207334163

    Speaking at the inaugural session of Rajya Sabha Internship Program-phase 7 at the Vice-President’s Enclave today, he underscored, “The recent episode, Operation Sindoor, has changed our mindset massively. We are now nationalistic as never before. And this is reflected in participation of all political landscape in delegations that have gone abroad to project our message of peace and our complete intolerance to terrorism. And therefore, having seen recent events, well, we have no choice. We have no other option but to remain united and grow stronger……Like institutions, even political tribes have a moral duty to the national cause, because ultimately all Institutions, the Legislature, the Judiciary, the Executive, the focal point is national growth, national welfare, public welfare, to generate transparency, accountability, honesty. On issues of national security, economic progress, all factions need to put national interest over partisan priorities. I will appeal to everyone in the political spectrum to seriously reflect, come to a conclusion that on issues of national security, on issues of growth, on issues of our internal security, there must be consensus. Sometimes politics get too hot for nationalism and security, something we need to overcome.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1927268049368858686

    Emphasising that Parliament is the ultimate authority to make laws, Shri Dhnakhar stated, “Indian parliament is much beyond a legislative body. It is reflection presently  of 1.4 billion people’s will. It is the only legitimized constitutional platform that reflects authentically  the will of the people, and therefore, Parliament has primacy.  Parliament has primacy not in everything because there are areas where executive has primacy, how to govern. Judiciary has primacy,  how to deal with justice system but parliament has primacy on two counts- it is ultimate authority to make law. Secondly, it holds executive accountable. Because  governance is defined  by some fundamentals and one fundamental is transparency. Second is accountability, and in modern times, we have added a third facet to it. Optimal  performance by institutions to gallop our progress trajectory……Parliament is a place, ultimate place, for debate, dialogue, discussion, and discourse.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1927275554144690525

    Underlining the significance of cooperation and consensus, he said, “Our constitution, boys and girls, is a most sacred document. You will come to know how it was formalised, little less than three years, by our founding fathers who dealt with divisive issues, contentious issues, issues that were highly inflammatory, but they dealt with an approach of coordination, cooperation, consensus, something you have to learn in life. And for that, what is important is that you must always respect the other point of view. Because if you think you alone are right, the other person is wrong, you are depriving yourself of a great benefit of input. And secondly, my own experience is, more often than not, the other point of view is the correct view.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1927274943609241940

    “This document painstakingly evolved has taken note of our civilisational growth also. If you look at the Constitution as signed by framers of the Constitution, you will have the occasion to see it. When you see it, you’ll find it has 22 miniatures. Each miniature reflects our historical past, glorious historical past. It shows Gurukul. It shows Indus Valley boom. It shows Ram, Sita, and Laxman coming back to Ayodhya after triumph of goodness over evil. That is in part three of the Constitution, fundamental rights. When it comes to directive principles of state policy,  you will find Bhagawan Krishna giving discourse to Arjuna at Kurukshetra. And you can keep on going to other facets. You will know about it.  Constitution grants fundamental rights, but Constitution, apart from granting fundamental rights, also ordains every citizen to perform duties. Rights are more meaningful unless they are enforceable. And therefore, boys and girls, note India is amongst very few countries in the world where for enforcement of a fundamental right,  you can knock the door of the highest court of the land. You can access judiciary at the premium level to vindicate your fundamental rights. But every citizen and institution must exercise their powers within constitutional boundaries, upholding constitutional ideals. We can love our neighbor only when we don’t make incursion in the exclusive domain of the neighbour, physical territory and otherwise. This Constitutional domain sanctity is required to be preserved in all situations. If there is any disruption of it. you can sense danger”, he added

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK-born panda twin cubs named

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law today revealed that the first pair of giant panda twin cubs born in Hong Kong have been officially named Jia Jia and De De.

    The names were selected as the winning entries out of more than 35,700 submissions to a naming competition organised by the Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau and the Ocean Park Corporation.

    The judging panel considered the names to be full of meaning. Jia Jia is female and the elder of the twins, with the Chinese character for “Jia” indicating “support”.

    Sharing the same pronunciation as the Chinese characters for “home” and “auspices” in both Cantonese and Putonghua, “Jia” also carries an element of family and a sense of auspicious grace, signifying the prosperity of families and the nation as well as the happiness of its people.

    As for De De, Jia Jia’s little brother, the Chinese character De means “to succeed”, with the name conveying a sense of success for Hong Kong.

    De also shares the same pronunciation as the Chinese character for “virtue” in both Cantonese and Putonghua, which implies that the pandas, as national treasures, possess the virtues cherished by the Chinese people.

    Speaking at an unveiling event held at Ocean Park, Miss Law, who chaired the competition’s judging panel, thanked the Central People’s Government on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Government for the former’s ongoing support and guidance on the conservation of giant pandas.

    “Over the years, under the central government’s guidance, the Hong Kong SAR has been given the opportunity to participate in the important task of national giant panda conservation. This fully demonstrates the central government’s support and care for the Hong Kong SAR.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Temporary closure of Ngong Ping attraction “Wisdom Path” to carry out refurbishment works

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Temporary closure of Ngong Ping attraction “Wisdom Path” to carry out refurbishment worksIssued at HKT 16:37

    ​The Tourism Commission (TC) announced today (May 27) that the “Wisdom Path” will be closed temporarily from June 5 (Thursday) to carry out refurbishment works.

    To reduce disturbances to locals and tourists, the “Wisdom Path” will be gradually reopened by the TC as appropriate before the refurbishment works are fully completed. The TC will announce the gradual opening of the “Wisdom Path” through various channels to facilitate the planning of journey by locals and tourists. Subject to actual weather and site conditions, it is expected that all refurbishment works will be complete in the last quarter of 2026.

    During the refurbishment works, visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the three-dimensional architecture harmoniously integrated with nature from different viewpoints at the viewing platform located at a section of the Lantau Trail near the “Wisdom Path”. Visitors can also scan QR codes at the viewing platform, which will redirect them to the TC’s website for the history and background of the “Wisdom Path”. The location and photo of the viewing platform are set out in Annex.

    The late Professor Jao Tsung-I donated his original calligraphy featuring the “Prajna Paramita Hrdaya Sutra” (Heart Sutra) to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 2002. The calligraphy was reproduced in the form of a large-scale outdoor wood inscription on a natural slope at the foot of Lantau Peak near Ngong Ping on Lantau Island. The timber columns, erected according to the mountain slope and integrated with nature, became a unique large-scale outdoor art piece and was named the “Wisdom Path”. Since its opening in May 2005, the “Wisdom Path” has become one of the tourist attractions on Lantau and has been welcomed by members of the public and visitors. For more details about the “Wisdom Path”, please visit the website: www.tourism.gov.hk/wisdompath.

    Ends/Tuesday, May 27, 2025
    Issued at HKT 16:37

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: No. 3 alarm fire in Tin Shui Wai

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     A fire broke out at a warehouse in Ha Tsuen, Tin Shui Wai at 12.40pm today (May 27) and was upgraded to No. 3 alarm at 1.33pm.

    Firemen are using two jets and mobilising two breathing apparatus teams to fight the blaze.

    ​One person felt unwell and was being sent to Tuen Mun Hospital for treatment.

    Ends/Tuesday, May 27, 2025
    Issued at HKT 13:51

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST visits Toronto and calls on enterprises to develop wealth management and family businesses in Hong Kong (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SFST visits Toronto and calls on enterprises to develop wealth management and family businesses in Hong Kong Issued at HKT 11:38

    The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, started his five-day visit to Canada on May 26 (Toronto Time). His first stop was Toronto, where he met with representatives of two banks and an insurance group immediately after his arrival in the city.

    Mr Hui arrived in Toronto in the afternoon. He started his itinerary with a meeting with the Group Head, RBC Wealth Management, Mr Neil McLaughlin, and Executive Vice President and Global Head, Strategy, Products and Digital Investing, Mr Stuart Rutledge, of the Royal Bank of Canada. He then proceeded to Scotiabank to meet with its Group Head for Global Wealth Management, Ms Jacqui Allard, and Vice President, Strategic Cultural Segments, Mr Amit Brahme.

    Both banks are deeply interested in the development of the wealth management business in Hong Kong. Mr Hui shared that Hong Kong is currently the largest cross-border wealth management hub in Asia, and some anticipate that Hong Kong will leap into first place globally by 2028. The family office business is an important segment of the asset and wealth management sector in Hong Kong. As of end-2023, the size of private banking and private wealth management business attributed to family offices and private trusts clients reached US$185.2 billion (HK$1,452 billion), providing huge business opportunities for the asset and wealth management sector and other related professional services (such as legal and accounting services). Mr Hui also highlighted the diversity of financial products in Hong Kong and the latest passage of the stablecoins legislation, providing investors with numerous investment options. The banks were encouraged to utilise the developmental strengths of Hong Kong’s asset and wealth management industry and establish their presence in Hong Kong.

    Mr Hui also met with the Group Vice President and Head of Asia of Power Corporation of Canada, Mr Henry Liu, this evening. He introduced to him the facilitation and concession provided by the Government to family offices looking to set up or expand their business in Hong Kong, such as no licence being required for a single family office under the Securities and Futures Ordinance if it does not carry on a business of regulated activity in Hong Kong. Single family offices can also enjoy profit tax exemption for qualifying transactions. Mr Hui highlighted the Government’s efforts in enhancing the preferential tax regimes for funds, single family offices and carried interest, including expanding the scope of “fund” under the tax exemption regime, increasing the types of qualifying transactions eligible for tax concessions for funds and single family offices and enhancing the tax concession arrangement on the distribution of carried interest by private equity funds. The Government targets working out the details of the proposals by this year and submitting the legislative proposals to the Legislative Council for consideration in 2026, striving to implement the relevant measures from the year of assessment 2025/26. Mr Hui called on the company to leverage the ideal business environment with stability and predictability to set up family offices in Hong Kong. Power Corporation of Canada operates a wide range of businesses covering North America, Europe and Asia, including insurance, wealth management and investment businesses.

    On May 27 (Toronto Time), Mr Hui will visit two insurance companies, meet with the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (Toronto Chapter) and attend a business luncheon with financial leaders in Toronto. He will also pay a courtesy call to the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Toronto.

    Ends/Tuesday, May 27, 2025
    Issued at HKT 11:38

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Workshop on “The Taxation of the EU’s Financial Sector” – Subcommittee on Tax Matters

    Source: European Parliament

    On Tuesday, 3 June 2025, from 15.00 to 16.00, the Policy Department for Economy and Growth organises a workshop with FISC Members to present a study on “The taxation of the EU’s financial sector – Options and experiences”.

    This study provides a mapping of the existing financial sector taxes applied in EU Member States and summarises the empirical evidence on the various effects associated with individual financial sector taxes.

    It focuses on the taxation of financial transactions, bank taxes, and the taxation of financial services. Financial sector taxes are assessed in terms of their effect on fragmentation and the coherence of the EU financial sector.

    The study also sketches some directions for reform to improve coherence of financial sector taxation

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Workshops – The Taxation of the EU’s Financial Sector – 03-06-2025 – Subcommittee on Tax Matters

    Source: European Parliament

    On Tuesday, 3 June 2025, the Policy Department for Economy and Growth organises a workshop with FISC Members to present a study on “The taxation of the EU’s financial sector – Options and experiences”.

    This study provides a mapping of the existing financial sector taxes applied in EU Member States and summarises the empirical evidence on the various effects associated with individual financial sector taxes.

    It focuses on the taxation of financial transactions, bank taxes, and the taxation of financial services. Financial sector taxes are assessed in terms of their effect on fragmentation and the coherence of the EU financial sector.

    The study also sketches some directions for reform to improve coherence of financial sector taxation

    MIL OSI Europe News –