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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coming up next week at the London Assembly W/C 30 September

    Source: Mayor of London

    PUBLIC MEETINGS

    Thursday 3 October

    2024 Mayor of London and London Assembly Elections

    Elections Review Working Group – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    In the second meeting of its investigation into the planning, conduct and cost of the May 2024 GLA elections, the Elections Review Working Group will ask representatives from London Boroughs, and agents and political organisers about their experiences.

    Panel 1 – Boroughs (10am – 11.30am)

    • Ian Buckle, Head of Electoral and Democratic Services, London Borough of Waltham Forest
    • Zoe Wilkins, Chair of AEA London branch and Electoral Services Manager, Hammersmith & Fulham
    • John Bailey, Vice Chair of AEA London branch and Head of Electoral Services, Barnet

    Panel 2 – Agents and political organisers (11.35am – 12.35pm)

    • Brian Jarvis, Head of Field, London, Conservative Campaign Headquarters
    • Further guests to be confirmed

    MEDIA CONTACT: Josh Hunt on 07763 252 310 / [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British Embassy Launches #GreatBritishStories Phone Booth Library

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The British Embassy is launching the #GreatBritishStories campaign through an interactive literary Phone Booth display at Fully Booked BGC.

    The British Embassy Manila is starting a new chapter with the launch of the #GreatBritishStories campaign, featuring an interactive literary Phone Booth display at Fully Booked BGC from September 28 to October 18.

    Featuring a life-size replica of the iconic British red telephone booth, the phone booth is filled with British stories – from beloved classics like Jane Austen novels to contemporary works, such as books penned by Dolly Alderton.

    With a campaign called #GreatBritishStories, the British Embassy aims to showcase the UK’s rich literary heritage and promote British culture in the Philippines, inviting audiences to explore the depth and diversity of British literature.

    Captured on display is a wide range of British authors and books, with a special emphasis on female characters and writers. By showcasing both classic and contemporary works, #GreatBritishStories demonstrates the enduring appeal and global influence of British literature.

    Laure Beaufils, British Ambassador to the Philippines says,

    I’m thrilled to bring a little piece of Britain to the Philippines with our phone booth library. I hope this will generate a lot of excitement for British literature,

    We’ve got so many authors – classic or modern – to inspire Filipino readers.  I hope they take the time to explore and enjoy these stories, and learn more about the UK and the values that Britain holds dear,

    This collaboration with Fully Booked underscores the strong cultural links between the UK and the Philippines, as well as the universal appeal of great literature.

    Jaime Daez, Managing Director of Fully Booked Philippines says,

    We’re excited to host the phone booth display at our flagship store. This unique exhibit aligns perfectly with our mission to promote a love of reading and literature. It’s like having a small corner of Britain right here in our store, inviting customers to explore the wide range of storytelling the UK has to offer,

    Patterned after the iconic red British phone booth, the design of which turns 100 years old this year, the #GreatBritishStories phone booth will be on display at Fully Booked BGC from September 28 to October 18.

    Everyone is invited to channel their inner Alice in Wonderland, and get curiouser and curiouser about the interactive exhibit by taking the special quiz and getting a photo inside the phone booth to share on social media using #GreatBritishStories.

    The phone booth library even has a phone so visitors can leave an audio message about their favourite British book or author, or even inspire someone else’s next great read.

    Whether you’re a fan of Elizabeth Bennet’s strength, Matilda’s brilliance, or Dolly Alderton’s reflections, the British Embassy Manila invites readers to see things differently through the literary phone booth display. After all, every great reader’s journey starts with a single book.

    The #GreatBritishStories campaign is a prologue to the Great British Festival, happening on 19-20 October at the BGC Amphitheatre. This year’s Great British Festival promises to be one for the books! It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in British culture, from books to music, food, and more.

    Head over to Fully Booked at Bonifacio High Street and celebrate #GreatBritishStories and discover the enduring connection between British literature and Filipino readers.

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    Published 27 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Oxford City Council response to planning inspectors’ findings on its draft Local Plan 2040

    Source: City of Oxford

    Oxford City Council’s plans to tackle Oxford’s housing crisis face a setback as planning inspectors have recommended the withdrawal of its draft Local Plan 2040.

    The Council submitted the plan for public examination by the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) in March. Inspectors then held an initial set of public hearings in June to decide whether the Local Plan 2040 satisfies national planning policy and other legal requirements. 

    The urgent need for homes

    The PINS has accepted the Council’s approach to maximising the number of new homes that can be built within city boundaries by 2040, with 481 a year proposed. 

    However, inspectors have rejected the Council’s assessment that 1,322 homes a year are needed in total, with 841 of these needing to be built outside Oxford’s boundaries. 

    Oxfordshire’s thriving life science and technology sectors mean the county has been one of the few hotspots in a stagnating UK economy for some time. Economic growth creates the need for more homes than allowed for in the National Planning Policy Framework’s (NPPF) default ‘standard method’ for calculating how many homes are needed. 

    Inspectors had previously agreed Oxfordshire’s exceptional circumstances justified the need for more homes. Oxford’s existing Local Plan 2036 and those of its neighbouring districts are based on this foundation and the districts have already agreed to build 14,300 homes to meet Oxford’s needs. 

    The Local Plan 2040 takes a similar approach in using job and population growth forecasts to assess how many homes are needed. The inspectors have now U-turned and said there are no exceptional circumstances justifying the need for more homes, even despite continued strong economic growth.  

    This means the Council would need to use the standard method calculation of 762 homes a year. 

    This is not enough to meet the need for new homes, even if economic factors are disregarded. The need for affordable housing alone would require 700 new homes a year.  

    Oxford is one of the least affordable places to live in the UK, with average house prices more than 12 times household earnings and more than 3,300 households on the waiting list for council housing. 

    The PINS U-turn also flies in the face of the new Labour government’s intention to set new mandatory housing targets requiring a 59% increase in the number of homes to be delivered in Oxfordshire – an extra 1,900 a year countywide. 

    Duty to cooperate

    Despite a long history of collaborative working with stakeholders and neighbouring councils on planning issues affecting Oxfordshire, the PINS has also concluded the council failed to meet its ‘duty to cooperate’ in preparing the Local Plan 2040.  

    This finding relates to a single five-month period in 2022 after the collapse of the Oxfordshire Plan 2050 that involved all five district councils. In this period, the Council was working with Cherwell District Council to commission the HENA as a joint evidence base for their respective plans.  

    Oxfordshire’s other districts declined the invitation to take part in this project. However, they were offered the opportunity to engage with the findings of the work. 

    While the Council strongly disputes the inspectors’ findings as it is confident it engaged appropriately with neighbouring councils, the NPPF provides no mechanism to appeal them. 

    The Council is currently considering its options. However, any amendment to the Local Plan 2040 would mean the need for further public consultation and delay any implementation of the plan.   

    Comment 

    “We are alarmed and extremely disappointed by the recommendation to withdraw our Local Plan 2040 from public examination.  

    “The planning inspectors have failed to grasp the seriousness of Oxford’s housing crisis and the number of new homes we need to tackle this crisis – and don’t appear to have heeded the clear message from government which requires all councils to up their housing delivery ambitions.  

    “The logical outcome of the inspectors’ conclusions will be a delay to proactively planning for the homes we need. The reality is that while the City Council are builders, there are others elsewhere who are blockers. Waiting for a situation where all councils in Oxfordshire are agreed on housing numbers and cross-boundary matters is just not realistic. That’s why the government is planning the reintroduction of mandatory housing delivery targets.” 

    “Our approach hasn’t changed. Yet the PINS now says there are no exceptional circumstances and we should now use the current ‘standard method’ – already rejected by the new government – for working out how many homes we need. This would mean fewer homes being built, and far fewer than we actually need. 

    “The current standard method is not fit for purpose and flies in the face of the government’s policy intention to overhaul a broken national planning system and deliver 1.5 million homes. The current standard method does not even take account of population increases that have already happened in Oxford and across Oxfordshire recorded in the census. Using this discredited method to calculate how many homes we need would make the city’s housing crisis worse.  

    “Oxford City Council also disputes the finding it has not met the duty to cooperate. We have a longstanding history of working collaboratively with neighbouring councils and other stakeholders on planning issues affecting Oxfordshire – including during the preparation of this plan.  

    “The duty to cooperate is not a duty to agree. Nor should it be a charter for those who object the loudest to be able to block the building of desperately needed homes.” 

    Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council

    The inspectors’ recommendation (PDF), the Council’s response (PDF) and a summary briefing note are on the Council’s website. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Europe: B10-0013/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0013/2024

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the attempt by the German Federal Ministry of the Interior to impose a media ban

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Rule 149 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union,

    A. Whereas on 16 July 2024 the German Federal Ministry of the Interior issued a ban on the media associations COMPACT-Magazin GmbH and CONSPECT FILM GmbH;

    B. having regard to the fact that on 14 August 2024 the Federal Administrative Court suspended in part the immediate enforcement of the ban on ‘Compact’ on the grounds that a ban was disproportionate and that less severe means should have been used to guarantee freedom of expression and freedom of the press;

    1. Notes with concern that, in banning ‘Compact’, the German Federal Ministry of the Interior attempted to restrict the freedom to express political dissent;

    2. Warns against governments controlling and restricting the flow of information through legal trickery, for example by imposing media bans by the backdoor in the guise of bans on associations;

    3. Calls for a fundamental debate to be carried out on the threats to freedom of expression and freedom of the press and the arbitrary decisions affecting them, as well as on the successful and unsuccessful media bans in Germany and other Member States of the European Union, in order to raise awareness of the dangers of increasing censorship.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI China: Green becomes defining feature of development in China: official

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

    BEIJING, Sept. 27 — Green is the defining feature of China’s development in the new era and remarkable progress has been made in the country’s green and low-carbon transformation, said Tian Chunxiu, deputy director of the Policy Research Center for Environment and Economy of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment.

    She made the remarks during the China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk platform hosted by Xinhua News Agency, on Friday.

    In the energy sector, for example, China’s annual energy consumption growth averaged 3 percent in the new era since the 18th Communist Party of China (CPC) National Congress in 2012, while its average annual economic growth exceeded 6 percent and its energy consumption per unit of GDP dropped by 26.8 percent, making it one of the countries with the fastest reduction in energy intensity worldwide, she revealed.

    The installed capacity of renewable energy currently exceeds that of thermal power plants in China, and China’s scale of development and utilization of renewable energy ranks first in the world.

    China, in the new era, has created many successful practices, as the world’s largest developing country has managed to effectively protect its ecological environment, while also achieving rapid economic and social development, Tian said, citing significant improvements in China’s ecological environment.

    China has witnessed steady improvement in its air quality, with average PM2.5 density, a key indicator of air pollution, dropping to 30 micrograms per cubic meter in 2023 from 46 micrograms per cubic meter in 2015, she said.

    In terms of water quality, the proportion of surface-water bodies nationwide classified as having “fairly good” water quality had reached 89.4 percent in 2023, she added.

    Using key rivers as examples, Tian said the Yangtze River’s main stream has maintained Grade II water quality for four consecutive years, while the main stream of the Yellow River has maintained the same level for two successive years.

    China has a five-tier water quality system, with Grade V representing the lowest level.

    China has steadfastly advanced its “Beautiful China” initiative, emphasizing ecological and environmental protection as a top priority in its social and economic development.

    During the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee in July 2024, Chinese leadership pledged to “prioritize ecological protection, conserve resources and use them efficiently, and pursue green and low-carbon development.”

    MIL OSI China News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI China: NHC minister meets with health minister of Rwanda

    Source: People’s Republic of China Ministry of Health

    Lei Haichao, minister of China’s National Health Commission (NHC), met with Rwandan Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana on Sept 3 in Beijing. The pair discussed further strengthening bilateral health cooperation.

    During his meeting with Nsanzimana, Lei introduced the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) as well as the goals and key tasks in health reform.

    He said that China is ready to implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and deepen exchanges between the health departments of China and Rwanda under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both countries. 

    China is willing to intensify the work of the medical teams assisting Rwanda and further strengthen cooperation in areas such as hospital management and operations, high-end medical equipment development, big data and artificial intelligence related to healthcare, and personnel training, so as to make a greater contribution to the building of a China-Africa health community, he noted.

    Nsanzimana thanked the Chinese side for presenting the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, and expressed particular appreciation for China’s long-term selfless assistance to Rwanda’s healthcare development.

    He said Rwanda is willing to work on strengthening bilateral health exchanges and cooperation and looks forward to China’s further assistance in promoting the development of Rwanda’s healthcare system.

    Officials of related NHC departments were present at the meeting.

    MIL OSI China News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: García, Democratic Members Introduce Migration Stability Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

    The resolution calls for comprehensive legislation to address the root causes of forced migration and displacement

    WASHINGTON – Today, Representative Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), along with Representative Greg Casar (TX-35), co-founder of the Global Migration Caucus, and U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52)introduced a new resolution calling for comprehensive legislation to address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while affirming the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the United States.

     “Over the past decades, millions of people have been forced to migrate from their homes—and more people are displaced now than ever before. This is the result of converging crises, including climate change, political instability, and violence, some of which are impacted by U.S. policy,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (D-Ill.). “Yet, our immigration and asylum policies have become more restrictive and punitive, disregarding the role our government has played in creating this crisis. It’s time we acknowledge the ways in which U.S. policy has contributed to forced migration and displacement, and advance reforms that address the root causes of migration.”

    Democrats can build an orderly, humane, and stable immigration system. We should create more legal pathways for migration and citizenship, while also changing the failed U.S. policies that cause displacement abroad and force people to flee their home countries,” said Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Let’s tackle the climate crisis. Let’s remove broad-based sanctions that increase poverty. Let’s prioritize policies to support stability abroad while creating a welcoming and predictable immigration process at home.”

    “Too many people around the world face violence, poverty, and persecution and see the United States as a beacon of hope,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.). “We must make the immigration system more humane, more orderly, and more effective to welcome immigrants who come to this country rather than turn them away and to recognize not only the contributions they make to this country, but also the moral duty we have to protect people who come here fleeing horrible conditions. We can and must do better for immigrants.”

    “Republicans’ dangerous rhetoric about immigration endangers our immigrant communities and completely ignores the root causes of migration,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Migration is not just a border issue but a foreign policy issue. With migration on the rise worldwide and conflict, food insecurity, climate change, and political violence driving immigration to the U.S., it’s imperative that we reshape our immigration policy to address these global crises. This resolution calls upon Congress to do just that.”

    “Climate instability, democratic backsliding, economic exclusion, sanctions, and human rights violations are just some of the conditions driving unprecedented levels of global displacement and migration,” said Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Stricter border enforcement, harsh asylum laws, and the vilification of immigrants have consistently failed us and our neighbors. Instead, we need to address how our own policies contribute to the crises and adopt a coordinated regional and global strategy to tackle the root causes of displacement.”

    “It’s past time for comprehensive immigration reform. And a critical piece to this is addressing the factors that force families to flee their home countries in the first place,” said Rep. Juan Vargas (D-Calif.). “From combating climate change to humanitarian assistance, we need to implement productive policies that address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while also working to restore faith in our legal immigration system and creating pathways to citizenship.”

     Specifically, this resolution calls for comprehensive legislation that: 

    • Addresses U.S. policies contributing to forced migration and displacement;
    • Ensures a humane and sustainable immigration system that appropriately addresses the root causes driving migration; and
    • Affirms the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the U.S.

    Over the last few weeks, MAGA Republicans have fabricated xenophobic and racist stories about Haitian immigrant families, adding to a long track record of perpetuating false narratives, conspiracy theories, and racist tropes. This MAGA rhetoric has incited physical violence against many migrant families. Now more than ever, it is important to emphasize the value migrants bring to our communities and to call for policies that will make our immigration system more stable and humane.  

    The following Members are co-sponsors of the resolution: Nanette Barragán (CA-44), André Carson (IN-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-07), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Grace Napolitano (CA-31), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07). 

    It is endorsed by ActionAid USA, Ayudemos por una vida mas digna, Border Vigil of Eagle Pass, CASA, Center for Economic Policy and Research, Center for International Policy, Climate Refugees, Eagle Pass Border Coalition, Global Exchange, Justice is Global, Mira Feminisms and Democracies, Movimiento de los pueblos por la paz y la justicia y México negro ac, National Immigrant Justice Center, National Immigration Project, OXFAM America, Public Citizen, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Transnational Villages Network/Red de Pueblos, United We Dream, and Win Without War. 

    “This resolution is the step forward Congress desperately needs to reframe the issue of immigration towards more productive and effective solutions that will ensure migrants’ lives take precedence over politics,” saidJuliana Macedo do Nascimento, Deputy Director of Federal Advocacy at United We Dream. “The vast majority of Americans want to see a humane, efficient and fair policies that honor everyone’s freedoms to live safely in their homes without being forcibly displaced, whether here or abroad, and provides the opportunity to become citizens in the U.S. Congress has a clear roadmap in front of them with this resolution that proves that safety, humanity, fairness and justice in our foreign policy and immigration system are not contradictory values but instead deeply interconnected.”

    “We need to dig in our heels and end the racism and xenophobia that’s rampant in our immigration and asylum debates in the U.S.,” said Eric Eikenberry, government relations director for Win Without War. “This new resolution lays the groundwork to do just that: welcome people who want to build their lives here, while ensuring that — from arms sales to climate policy and beyond — our government doesn’t create the conditions that force them from their homes and communities.” 

    “For too long, the U.S. approach to migration has focused on barricading our borders rather than addressing the realities compelling people to leave their homes — including crises exacerbated by U.S. policies. We applaud Congressman Casar and his colleagues for taking this critical step to review and move toward better U.S. policies to address the conditions giving rise to increased migration and displacement,” said Dylan Williams, Center for International Policy Vice President for Government Affairs.

    “There’s been a lot of talk over the years about ‘root causes’ of migration, but this is the first legislation of its kind to home in on the elephant in the room: U.S. policy and its role in fueling the involuntary migration and displacement of millions of people in the region and the world,” said Alex Main, Director of International Policy at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. “This groundbreaking resolution helps us all better understand how vulnerable communities in the Global South have been devastated by U.S. broad-based sanctions, U.S.-backed trade agreements that put corporate greed over people, U.S. security assistance that props up repressive governments, and lax gun laws that provide criminals with easy access to U.S. weapons. Most importantly, this legislation proposes bold strategies to undo harmful policies and help truly mitigate ‘root causes’ including through far-reaching reforms to US sanctions policy and foreign assistance, the removal of harmful ISDS provisions from US-backed trade agreements, and the provision of robust support to developing countries fighting inequality and climate change, including through new issuances of debt-free IMF Special Drawing Rights. This resolution is long overdue, and we’re proud and delighted to be supporting it today.” 

    “Rather than ‘blaming the victims’—immigrants, it is important to acknowledge how failed U.S. foreign (or economic and military) policies have contributed to the spiraling poverty and violence from which people have been fleeing for their lives,” Jean Stokan, Justice Coordinator for Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. “Forced migration is often the result of U.S. foreign policies that prioritize the interests of foreign investors over those of impoverished populations. Thus, this resolution importantly names U.S. responsibility to address those root causes and the need for justice-based pathways to citizenship.”

    “To design a just and humane policy response to immigration, we have to ask the question – why are people moving? As an international development organization, ActionAid USA strongly supports this resolution for acknowledging the root causes of migration, including and especially those for which the United States is directly responsible,” said Brandon Wu, Director of Policy and Campaigns for ActionAid USA. “A human rights-based approach to immigration policy should start with fixing harmful foreign policies, ongoing climate inaction, and unjust international economic systems that all contribute to force people to leave their homes.”

    Background: 

    The resolution text can be foundhere.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI China: China strictly follows nuclear policy of no first use of nuclear weapons: Defense Spokesperson 2024-09-26 “China’s nuclear policy is very stable, consistent and predictable. We strictly follow a nuclear policy of no first use of nuclear weapons and pursue a nuclear strategy of self-defense,” said Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang at a press conference on Thursday.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense 2

      BEIJING, Sept. 26 — “China’s nuclear policy is very stable, consistent and predictable. We strictly follow a nuclear policy of no first use of nuclear weapons and pursue a nuclear strategy of self-defense,” said Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, at a press conference on Thursday.

      The spokesperson made the remarks when responding to a media inquiry regarding China’s launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean on September 25.

      The spokesperson pointed out that China strictly follows a nuclear policy of no first use of nuclear weapons and pursues a nuclear strategy of self-defense. China does not seek any arms race.

      “We have promised not using or threatening to use nuclear weapons against no-nuclear-weapon states or nuclear-weapon-free zones. China will continue to keep its nuclear capabilities at the minimum level required for national security,” stressed the spokesperson.

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    MIL OSI China News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Inaugurated High-Performance Computing (HPC) System tailored for Weather and Climate Research

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Inaugurated High-Performance Computing (HPC) System tailored for Weather and Climate Research

    The New HPC Systems named ‘Arka’ and ‘Arunika’ – Reflecting their Connection to Surya, the Primary Energy Source for the Earth System

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 1:42PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi has inaugurated the High-Performance Computing (HPC) system – tailored for weather and climate research, acquired by the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

    The ambitious project represents an investment of ₹850 crore, marking a significant leap in India’s computational capabilities for more reliable and accurate weather and climate forecasting particularly extreme events. Located at two key sites—the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) at Pune and the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) at Noida.

    The IITM system is equipped with an impressive capacity of 11.77 Peta FLOPS and 33 petabytes of storage, while the NCMRWF facility features 8.24 Peta FLOPS with 24 petabytes of storage. Additionally, there is a dedicated standalone system for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning applications with a capacity of 1.9 Peta FLOPS.

    With this augmentation, the Ministry of Earth Sciences will enhance its total computing power to 22 Peta FLOPS, a substantial increase from the previous capacity of 6.8 Peta FLOPS.

    In keeping with tradition, these state-of-the-art systems have been named after celestial entities connected to the sun. Previous systems were named Aditya, Bhaskara, Pratyush, and Mihir. The new HPC systems are aptly named ‘Arka’ and ‘Arunika,’ reflecting their connection to Surya—the sun, the primary energy source for the Earth system.

    The enhanced computational framework will enable the development of sophisticated models leveraging advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, thereby significantly improving the last-mile services rendered to various stakeholders.

    The enhanced computational capabilities provided by the HPC System will allow the Ministry of Earth Sciences to further improve existing data assimilation capabilities and refine physics and dynamics of its global weather prediction models at higher horizontal resolution. Furthermore, regional models will achieve finer resolutions of 1 km or less over select Indian domains. These high-resolution models will significantly enhance the accuracy and lead time of predictions related to tropical cyclones, heavy precipitation, thunderstorms, hailstorms, heat waves, droughts, and other extreme weather phenomena.

    Leveraging these advanced HPC Systems, the Ministry of Earth Sciences aims to significantly improve the precision and reliability of weather forecasts, ensuring better preparedness and response to the challenges posed by climate variability and extreme weather events.

    *****

    AG

    (Release ID: 2059397) Visitor Counter : 43

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Tourism Launches Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi – A National Responsible Tourism Initiative

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 2:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Tourism, Government of India launched a national responsible tourism initiative by the name of ‘Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi’ on September 27th, World Tourism Day,

    Based on the vision of the Prime Minister for enabling tourism as a vehicle for social inclusion, employment, and economic progress – Ministry of Tourism piloted Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi in 6 tourist destinations across India namely – Orchha (Madhya Pradesh), Gandikota (Andhra Pradesh) Bodh Gaya (Bihar), Aizawl (Mizoram), Jodhpur (Rajasthan), and Sri Vijaya Puram (Andaman & Nicobar Islands).

    Through this initiative, Ministry of Tourism aims to elevate the overall experience for tourists in destinations, by having them meet ‘tourist-friendly’ people who are proud Ambassadors & Storytellers for their destination. This is being done by providing tourism related training and awareness to all individuals who interact and engage with tourists in a destination.

    Driven by ‘Athithi Devo Bhava’, cab drivers, auto drivers, staff at railway stations, airports, bus stations, hotel staff, restaurant workers, homestay owners, tour guides, police personnel, street vendors, shop keepers, students, and many more were provided training and awareness on the importance of tourism, general cleanliness, safety, sustainability, and also on the importance of providing tourists with the highest standards of hospitality and care.

    These individuals were also made aware of the local stories of the destination along with its lesser-known tourism wonders, so that every person a tourist interacts with in these destinations, turn out to be local Ambassadors and Storytellers, who strive to create a positive tourist experience in every manner.

    Through Paryatan Mitra & Paryatan Didi, special emphasis is being placed on the training of women and youth to enable them to develop new tourism products & experiences like heritage walks, food tours, craft tours, nature treks, homestay experiences, and other innovative tourism products based on the potential of the destination. It is also envisioned that locals leverage these skills to obtain gainful employment going forward as homestay owners, food & cuisine experience providers, cultural guides, natural guides, adventure guides, and other roles in tourism.

    Tourism-specific training is being followed by general training in digital literacy and digital tools to ensure that the experiences they create are discoverable and visible to tourists, nationally and globally. Since the pilot of this program on August 15th this year, around 3,000 people have been trained in the 6 pilot destinations on the importance of creating a positive experience for tourists, thereby being a Paryatan Mitra.

    Impact

    Due to the efforts of Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi, there has been visible enthusiasm from locals to be a part of tourism training programs and become a part of the tourism ecosystem.

    Going forward, the Ministry will be recognizing Paryatan Mitra’s & Didi’s in destinations with a dedicated badge and identity, offering tourists a way to be assured of an incredible experience when with a Paryatan Mitra.

    On World Tourism Day 2024, Ministry of Tourism has launched Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi across the following 50 tourist destinations in the country:

    State/Union Territory

    Destination 1

    Destination 2

    Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    Sri Vijaya Puram

     

    Andhra Pradesh

    Gandikota

    Tirupati

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Tawang

     

    Assam

    Guwahati

     

    Bihar

    Bodhgaya

    Nalanda

    Chandigarh

    Chandigarh

     

    Chhattisgarh

    Raipur

     

    Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu

    Daman

     

    Delhi

    Delhi

     

    Goa

    Goa

     

    Gujarat

    Ahmedabad

    Kevadia

    Haryana

    Kurukshetra

     

    Himachal Pradesh

    Shimla

     

    Jammu & Kashmir

    Srinagar

     

    Jharkhand

    Ranchi

     

    Karnataka

    Hampi

    Mysore

    Kerala

    Thiruvananthapuram

    Kochi

    Ladakh

    Leh

     

    Lakshadweep

    Kavaratti

     

    Madhya Pradesh

    Orchha

    Ujjain

    Maharashtra

    Aurangabad

    Nasik

    Manipur

    Imphal

     

    Meghalaya

    Shillong

     

    Mizoram

    Aizawl

     

    Nagaland

    Dimapur

     

    Odisha

    Puri

     

    Puducherry

    Puducherry

     

    Punjab

    Amritsar

    Patiala

    Rajasthan

    Jodhpur

    Jaipur

    Sikkim

    Gangtok

     

    Tamil Nadu

    Mahabalipuram

    Thanjavur

    Tripura

    Agartala

     

    Telangana

    Hyderabad

     

    Uttar Pradesh

    Varanasi

    Agra

    Uttar Pradesh

    Ayodhya

     

    Uttarakhand

    Haridwar

    Rishikesh

    West Bengal

    Darjeeling

    Kolkata

     

    The vision of Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi is to welcome one and all to experience Incredible India through Incredible Indians, thereby creating a more welcoming, hospitable, and memorable experience for tourists when in India.

    ****

    BeenaYadav

    (Release ID: 2059407) Visitor Counter : 23

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Signing of MoUs Between Institutes Of Hotel Management (IHMS) and Leading Hospitality Groups

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 2:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Central Institutes of Hotel Management (CIHMs) under the purview of Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, entered dedicated Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with 8 leading national and global hospitality groups – Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, ITC Group of Hotels, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels, Radisson Group of Hotels, and Lemon Tree Hotels, on 27th September, 2024, the World Tourism Day.

    These MoUs were signed and exchanged in the presence of national heads of leading hospitality chains and senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

    With an objective to go global with Indian hospitality and skill in India for the world, in tourism and hospitality, Ministry of Tourism invited interest from hospitality groups across the country to become ‘Industry Partners’ for Institutes of Hotel Management to facilitate student engagement & mentorship, faculty development & exposure, and institutional development. In the 1st phase, 8 hospitality groups were chosen to be declared as ‘Industry Partners’ for specific Central Institutes of Hotel Management.

    As part of the MoU, indicative areas of collaboration and suggestive activities between the ‘Industry Partner’ and the ‘Institute’ have been provided, with the parties free to choose amongst areas of collaboration and suggestive activities, while also adding new areas of collaboration and activities as deemed fit. A snapshot of the same is shared below:

    Area of Collaboration

    Suggestive Activities

    Student Engagement
    • Pairing of students with industry mentors and mentoring sessions
    • Periodic classroom sessions on industry specific skills by experts
    • Masterclasses and bootcamps
    • On-site learning by doing sessions
    • Offering career guidance and counselling
    • Facilitating internships and placement opportunities for students
    • Any other activities to boost quality of skilling & education at ‘Institute’ as per industry needs and requirements

    Faculty Development
    • Training & industry exposure sessions for faculty members
    • Short-term refresher courses for faculty
    • Facilitating access to manuals, guidelines, and case studies that outline best practices in the hospitality and homestays industry
    • Research collaborations with faculty members
    • Any other activity to ensure development of faculty from time to time as per industry trends and requirements

    Short-term tourism & hospitality skilling & education
    • Conduct of short-term courses on tourism & hospitality from time to time for various stakeholders – homestays, MSMEs, local hotels & restaurants, Self Help Groups, faculty of other tourism & hospitality institutes, etc.

    Institutional & Infrastructural Development
    • Assisting in identifying resources and opportunities to improve infrastructure and upgrading facilities as per industry standards
    • Supporting innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives within the institutes
    • Taking up concerns for effectively addressing issues of providing satisfying work environment and compensation at entry level for students
    • Developing recommendations and reforms to develop the institute into a Global Centre of Excellence for tourism & hospitality skilling in India, for the world

    ***

    BeenaYadav

    (Release ID: 2059411) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of Vice-President’s address on the occasion of World Tourism Day 2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 2:12PM by PIB Delhi

    The transformation that has taken place in the last decade by doubling the number of airports, having world-class infrastructure for connectivity railroads, various facets of it, highways, expressways highways that match the best in the world. 

    Diplomats, grateful for your gracious presence, all stakeholders in tourism, and distinguished audience. On the occasion of World Tourism Day, it is very significant for the entire planet because it connects those bonds of humanity which are much needed at the moment, my greetings. 

    This is an event to celebrate the profound impact of tourism on global economic development, social progress, and cultural exchange. Friends, these are just not words, you realise them on the ground. They are reflected tangibly, economic development is intertwined with the tourist industry, with tourism. 

    The theme this year is very thoughtful and bears huge contemporary relevance, tourism and peace. The theme underlines something very deep. It connects amongst human resources, connects amongst people, and people-to-people contact. That is conducive to harmony and generates an ecosystem of exchange of ideas. Therefore, rightly so, tourism contributes massively to peace, the theme is not a day too soon, the entire world is yearning for peace.

    We are traumatised by conflagrations, any conflagration in any part of the globe is torture to every part of the land. It disrupts supply chains, disrupts planning, a pain and therefore, tourism and peace have great relevance. 

    The theme is particularly befitting for Bharat, the largest, vibrant, and functional democracy, home to one-sixth of humanity, tourism globally is a thriving industry. It is so thriving that some countries thrive only on tourism, their economy is sustained by tourism, it is the spine of their economy when it comes to Bharat. A statement was made, taking note of the phenomenal, exponential progress this nation has witnessed in a decade. 

    I go back to more than three decades when I was a Member of Parliament in 1989 and a Minister in the Union Government then, the size of our economy was smaller than that of the city of Paris and London. When I went to Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar, as part of the Council of Ministers, I could not see more than dozens of people on the streets, We were staying at a hotel by Dull lake and now imagine where we have come. Two crore people visited Kashmir as tourists last year. 

    The economy today of Bharat has traversed in a decade from a fragile five to the five largest global economies. In the next two years, by all indications, we will be ahead of Japan and Germany to be the third. That is where Bharat is at the moment. So much has changed in the ecosystem by affirmative governance, technological advancement, transparent, accountable mechanisms in place for every governmental dealing that the International Monetary Fund reflected. India is a favourite global destination for investment and opportunity.

    India, that is Bharat, is favourite global destination for tourism, go to any part of India, and the diplomats present here who have been to various parts, I am sure, will bear me out. We have tourism for all seasons, come to this land of spirituality, land of sublimity, land of knowledge, land of Vedas, and the civilisational ethos of 5000 years. Any time of the year, you will have the occasion to feast on tourist destinations.

    The economic growth engine of this nation, destined to reach 2047 as a developed nation, will be fuelled majorly by tourism and I have no doubt you will leave no effort to tap the potential waiting to be exploited. And why not? All that is needed for the exploitation of our tourist resources and tourism destinations is, one, you need an image of the nation. 

    An image of Bharat in the world is very different from what it was a decade ago, the leadership of Bharat is recognised globally. Which other economy in the world of this size can claim to be rising around 8% GDP annually? and so, predicted for many years to come. Look at 1.4 billion people being serviced with last-mile delivery with respect to toilets, electricity, internet, education, and tap water. ‘हर घर नल, हर नल में जल, जल निश्चित रूप से, जल क्वालिटी का होI, tested him stringently when he called upon me to inaugurate one of his pilot projects.

    I said Mr. Minister, go to Jhunjhunu, my home district, click off the button, go to my Tehsil Chirawa click off the button, I said, go to my village, Kithana click off the button and tell me how many houses have नल with जल. My house had, the name was there. Some houses did not have, and faithfully, they were also reflected with one indicator, the work is in progress.

    Moved by this great achievement, accomplishment, and credentials, he has now been given the daunting task where he will have to deal with everyone. He is very tactful, go to the Civil Aviation Minister here. He will get the Railway Minister, you will have to get all the Ministers. Because, if I say

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu meets Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 1:13PM by PIB Delhi

    Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Shri M.K.Stalin today met with Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

    The Prime Minister’s Office posted on X;

    “Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru @mkstalin, met Prime Minister @narendramodi. @CMOTamilnadu”  

    **********

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2059380) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PMO shares an article by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal titled “The world wants to Make in India”

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 1:15PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister’s Office has shared an article written by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal titled “The world wants to Make in India”.

    Sharing the X post of Union Minister, the Prime Minister’s Office posted;

    “Union Minister Shri @PiyushGoyal highlights how the @makeinindia mission has positioned India as a preferred investment destination, empowering businesses, especially MSMEs, to produce high-quality goods and transforming several sectors from being importers of substandard products to exporters of world-class goods.”

    Union Minister Shri @PiyushGoyal highlights how the @makeinindia mission has positioned India as a preferred investment destination, empowering businesses, especially MSMEs, to produce high-quality goods and transforming several sectors from being importers of substandard… https://t.co/Hq5lEKsvIO

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 27, 2024

    ***********

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2059383) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Power Finance Corporation Ltd. Undertakes Series of Swachhata Initiatives in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 1:21PM by PIB Delhi

    As part of the “Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024” campaign, launched by the Government of India with the theme ‘Swabhaav Swachhata, Sanskar Swachhata,’ the Ministry of Power has organized various activities to integrate cleanliness into daily life.

     Power Finance Corporation Ltd. (PFC), under the initiative, has actively participated by organizing a series of cleanliness drives and public health activities aimed at promoting hygiene and safety in high-traffic public spaces. These activities were carried out in key locations across New Delhi and Bhopal, reaffirming PFC’s dedication to contributing to a cleaner and safer environment for all.

    One of the major initiatives led by PFC was a cleanliness drive outside Shivaji Bridge Railway Station in New Delhi. High-footfall public spaces like this often face waste accumulation, and PFC’s efforts helped significantly improve the cleanliness of the station’s surroundings.

    In addition, PFC distributed safety kits to street vendors in Connaught Place, one of the busiest commercial hubs in Delhi, as part of the “Swachh Food Street” initiative. These kits, consisting of face masks, hair masks, gloves, and sanitizers, were provided to encourage vendors to maintain hygiene while serving the public, contributing to better food safety and health standards in the area.

    ***

    Sushil Kumar

    (Release ID: 2059387) Visitor Counter : 63

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Voter turnout of 57.31 % recorded in Phase-2 of J&K Assembly Elections

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 1:36PM by PIB Delhi

    In continuation of ECI’s two press notes no. 139 & 140 dated 25.09.2024, Voter turnout of 57.31 % has been recorded in phase-2 for 26 ACs in the ongoing J&K Assembly Elections 2024. The gender wise voter turnout figures for phase 2 are given below:

     

    Phase

    Male Turnout

    Female turnout

    Third gender turnout

    Overall turnout

    Phase 2

    (26 ACs)

    58.35%

    56.22%

    30.19%

    57.31%

     

    2. Voting turnout trends at the polling stations on the poll day was facilitated by the Commission through its Voter turnout App, every two hours starting 9:30 am onwards. CEO J&K has confirmed that all polling parties have returned safely and scrutiny has completed in the presence of the candidates/their authorised agents. The Assembly Constituency and gender wise voter turnout data for Phase 2 of J&K Assembly Elections is given at Table 1. Further, a copy of Form 17C is also provided to the candidates through their polling agents.

    1. The voter turnout given in Table 1 is at the polling stations and final votes polled will be available post-counting with counting of postal ballots. Postal Ballots include Postal Ballots given to service voters, absentee voters (85+, PwD, Essential Services etc.) and Voters on Election Duty. Daily account of such Postal ballots received, as per established guidelines, are given to all candidates.

    Table 1: AC wise and Gender wise Voter turnout at polling stations for Phase 2 of J&K Assembly Elections

     

    Sl.

    No.

    AC

    No.

     

    AC Name

    Total

    Electors Count

    Voter Turnout in Percentage

    Male

    Female

    TG

    Total

    1

    17

    KANGAN(ST)

    78904

    72.58%

    71.76%

    Nil

    72.18%

    2

    18

    GANDERBAL

    129114

    61.50%

    52.80%

    Nil

    57.12%

    3

    19

    HAZRATBAL

    113014

    37.08%

    27.71%

    Nil

    32.39%

    4

    20

    KHANYAR

    91294

    30.93%

    21.30%

    0.00%

    26.09%

    5

    21

    HABBAKADAL

    95752

    22.96%

    16.70%

    55.56%

    19.81%

    6

    22

    LAL CHOWK

    107553

    39.12%

    29.22%

    100.00%

    34.15%

    7

    23

    CHANNAPORA

    85806

    34.00%

    25.10%

    100.00%

    29.53%

    8

    24

    ZADIBAL

    113034

    36.08%

    25.47%

    40.00%

    30.78%

    9

    25

    EIDGAH

    62080

    41.09%

    32.76%

    0.00%

    36.95%

    10

    26

    CENTRAL SHALTENG

    108141

    35.96%

    27.67%

    0.00%

    31.84%

    11

    27

    BUDGAM

    125605

    57.42%

    47.01%

    0.00%

    52.27%

    12

    28

    BEERWAH

    98371

    69.01%

    64.80%

    50.00%

    66.95%

    13

    29

    KHANSAHIB

    94319

    71.96%

    72.21%

    25.00%

    72.08%

    14

    30

    CHRAR-i- SHARIEF

    104734

    71.19%

    69.31%

    66.67%

    70.27%

    15

    31

    CHADOORA

    88835

    60.99%

    53.39%

    0.00%

    57.19%

    16

    56

    GULABGARH(ST)

    95388

    72.95%

    74.31%

    50.00%

    73.60%

    17

    57

    REASI

    85311

    70.14%

    74.20%

    100.00%

    72.06%

    18

    58

    SHRI MATA VAISHNO DEVI

    56506

    80.78%

    80.08%

    Nil

    80.45%

    19

    83

    KALAKOTE – SUNDERBANI

    97826

    63.95%

    74.21%

    0.00%

    68.82%

    20

    84

    NOWSHERA

    86608

    68.61%

    77.80%

    0.00%

    73.05%

    21

    85

    RAJOURI(ST)

    89189

    66.59%

    74.85%

    0.00%

    70.57%

    22

    86

    BUDHAL(ST)

    95641

    65.62%

    75.00%

    0.00%

    70.04%

    23

    87

    THANNAMANDI(ST)

    122744

    70.36%

    75.58%

    Nil

    72.88%

    24

    88

    SURANKOTE(ST)

    113572

    71.78%

    78.29%

    Nil

    74.94%

    25

    89

    POONCH HAVELI

    129122

    72.54%

    76.68%

    Nil

    74.56%

    26

    90

    MENDHAR(ST)

    109636

    69.18%

    78.16%

    Nil

    73.56%

    *NIL means there are no registered third gender electors

    ******

    PK/RP

    (Release ID: 2059395) Visitor Counter : 50

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Community-Managed Toilets in Trichy Propel the Swachh Bharat Mission Forward

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Community-Managed Toilets in Trichy Propel the Swachh Bharat Mission Forward

    Community-Managed Toilets in Trichy Propel the Swachh Bharat Mission Forward

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 12:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Click here for more detail:-Community-Managed Toilets in Trichy Propel the Swachh Bharat Mission Forward

    ****

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Saurabh Kalia

    (Release ID: 2059345) Visitor Counter : 15

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Biotechnology conducted ‘Mass Scale Cleanliness Drive’, ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, and ‘Cleanliness Awareness’ under Swachhata Hi Seva- 2024 and Special Campaign 4.0

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 12:02PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Biotechnology has conducted “Mass Scale Cleanliness drive” wherein hundreds of the Department’s employees participated. With a commitment towards “Keep our Nation Clean”, the market area near Dayal Singh College, Lodhi Road, New Delhi was cleaned by DBT’s staff.

    Secretary, Department of Biotechnology led this mass cleanliness drive. Joint Secretary, DBT motivated the staff to do deep cleaning especially at the black spot area. She made the people in and around the market place aware of the benefits of the cleanliness and motivated for a commitment on “Na Gandagi Failayenge, Na Failane Denge.” 

       

     

    With the concept to make the country- Clean and Green, plantation activity was also organised under the program – “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, by the Secretary, DBT and other officers near JLN Stadium Metro Station, New Delhi. The Campaign is being monitored by the senior officers from time to time. Further Joint Secretary, DBT has taken a review meeting regarding progress of preparation/implementation of the activities declared by the divisions/scientific cadre units of DBT and its autonomous institutions & PSUs.  

    *****

    AG

    (Release ID: 2059344) Visitor Counter : 20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Health Ministry Releases Revised Operational Guidelines and Training Manual of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Health Ministry Releases Revised Operational Guidelines and Training Manual of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

    India has taken the lead in recognising NAFLD as a major Non-Communicable Disease: Union Health Secretary

    “NAFLD is rapidly emerging as a major public health concern, closely linked with metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases”

    “The release of these documents will provide a framework for health workers at all levels, from community health workers to medical officers”

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 12:21PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Health Ministry released the revised Operational Guidelines and Training Module of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, here today. These documents are designed to improve patient care and outcomes related to NAFLD through informed, evidence-based practices.

    Addressing the session, Shri Apurva Chandra, Union Health Secretary said that “India has taken the lead in recognising NAFLD as a major NCD”. He said, “NAFLD is rapidly emerging as a major public health concern, closely linked with metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Out of 10, one to three people can have NAFLD which highlights the impact of the disease.”

    Shri Chandra highlighted that “the release of revised operational guidelines and training modules reflects the importance being given by the Union Health Ministry to curb the disease.” He said these documents will provide a framework for health workers at all levels, from community health workers to medical officers. He also emphasized the importance of continuum of care for people who have been diagnosed with NCDs and underlined the need for lifestyle modification for reducing the prevalence of NAFLD.

    Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Officer on Special Duty, Union Health Ministry said that “these guidelines need to reach the grassroot level workers so that the disease is detected early and the burden of NAFLD is reduced.” She said that the release of training module is a significant addition to India’s efforts to build capacities amongst Healthcare professionals to tackle the rising burden of NCDs in India.

    Dr S K Sarin, Director, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) said that the release of the two documents is a momentous step whose results will be reflected in the next few years. He noted that many non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer are linked to liver health, underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy liver.

    Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are accounting for more than 66% of death in the country. NCDs are strongly associated and causally linked with major behaviour risk factors such as tobacco use (smoking & smokeless), alcohol use, poor dietary habits, insufficient physical activity, and air pollution.

    Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Diseases (NAFLD) is emerging as an important cause of liver disease in India. It could be assuming a silent epidemic with community prevalence ranging from 9% to 32%, depending on age, gender, area of residence and socioeconomic status. In other words, we are saying that out of 10 persons 1 to 3 persons will be having Fatty liver or related disease.

    India contributes high numbers for NCDs globally and one of the core causes of metabolic diseases is in liver. Realizing the growing burden and urgent need to address it, India became the first country to integrate the NAFLD in the National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs in 2021.

    Considering the recent evidence-based interventions in the field of NAFLD, there was a dire need to revise the guidelines with updated information for prevention, control and management to equip the medical care providers and help in prevention and control of NAFLD.  

    The guidelines focus on health promotion and early detection which are important for ensuring that patients with NAFLD receive timely and appropriate care. It also advocates for a multidisciplinary approach, integrating the efforts of healthcare providers from various discipline to offer a holistic care to individual affected by NAFLD.

    The effective management of NAFLD requires not only a sound understanding of the disease condition but also a capacity to implement evidence-based interventions at all level of healthcare. The Training Module for NAFLD is developed to complement Operational Guidelines and help in building capacity of healthcare professionals with knowledge and skills necessary to identify, manage, prevent NAFLD particularly at primary level. The module covers a wide range of topic including epidemiology, risk factors, screening, diagnostic protocol and standardized treatment guidelines. It also reinforces the importance of early detection, patient education, lifestyle modification and integrated care strategies to improve health outcomes.

    Shri Jaideep Kumar Mishra, Addl. Secy and Financial Adviser, Health Ministry; Smt. L S Changsan, Addl. Secy, Health Ministry; Smt. Latha Ganpathy, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry and senior officers from the Union Health Ministry were present in the meeting. Representatives from all 36 States/UTs, development partners and experts from WHO, ILBS, AIIMS, CMC Vellore, JIPMER, SGPGIMS, PGIMER and RML Hospital also joined the meeting virtually.

    ******

    MV

    HFW/ Release of NAFLD Guidelines/27th September 2024/2

     

    (Release ID: 2059351) Visitor Counter : 5

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministries/Departments of Government of India Actively Undertaking Preparatory Phase Activities for Special Campaign 4.0

    Source: Government of India

    Ministries/Departments of Government of India Actively Undertaking Preparatory Phase Activities for Special Campaign 4.0

    Union Ministers, Ministers of State and Secretaries spearheading the Ministry/Department’s Implementation Plans and Strategies for a Successful Campaign.

    Large Scale Awareness Generation and Campaign Advocacy resorted through Electronic, Print and Social media with 1562 Tweets, 72 PIB Statements, #Specialcampaign4 Gaining Traction on Social media

    The 3rd Meeting of Nodal Officers held to Review the Significant Progress of Preparatory Phase

    Ministries/Departments to Take Campaign to The Last Mile under Saturation Approach

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 12:44PM by PIB Delhi

    The Special Campaign 4.0 launched by the Government, with Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances as the nodal department, has gained significant momentum in its preparatory phase.  The Special Campaign 4.0 enters the implementation phase from 2nd October to 31st October 2024, preceded by Preparatory Phase from 16th September 2024 to 30th September, 2024. 

    During this phase, Ministries/Departments, nominated nodal officers in each of their campaign offices in attached / subordinate offices/ PSUs / autonomous organizations and trained them on their roles in the campaign. It involved various activities such as mobilizing field functionaries, identifying pending references, finalizing the list of offices for Swachhata Campaign, assessing the volume of electronic/ automobile/ office scrap to be disposed and finalizing the procedures for their disposal. They also undertook plans for enhancement of office spaces, digitization practices, procedures for scrap disposal, sanitation protocols, inclusivity measures and record management practices for weeding of records and preservation of historical records.

    The progress of Special Campaign 4.0 is monitored through a dedicated web-portal (https://scdpm.nic.in/specialcampaign4/). All Ministries/Departments have uploaded targets for the Preparatory phase of the Campaign on the Special Campaign 4.0 web portal. The preparatory phase began on 16th September 2024 and as on 26th September 2024, 55 Ministries/Departments have identified 1,64,268 cleanliness campaign sites; 12,78,740 physical and e-files for review; 4,07,704 pending public grievances and appeals for disposal.

    Union Ministers, Ministers of State, Secretaries of Ministries/Departments have led the Special Campaign 4.0 preparations, and provided leadership on the strategies to be adopted to make the Special Campaign a huge success.  Records due for review have been transferred by the Record Officers from record rooms to the Officers concerned for review. Nodal Officers have inspected record rooms to identify records for historical preservation. An exhibition of historical records transferred to National Archives of India during Special Campaigns 1.0 – 3.0 during the years 2021, 2022 and 2023 would be presented in October 2024.

    The Third Meeting with Nodal Officers of Special Campaign 4.0 for Swachhata and Disposal of Pending Matters was held under the Chairmanship of the Secretary DARPG, Shri V. Srinivas to review the preparatory phase activities. The meeting was attended by 184 senior officers from 84 Ministries/Departments. Special campaign 4.0 implementation roadmap was formulated during the meeting.  All Ministries/Departments are geared up for the Implementation Phase of Special Campaign 4.0 beginning from 2nd October to 31st October 2024.

    Large scale awareness generation and campaign advocacy is resorted through electronic, print and social media and till date, 1562 tweets under the #SpecialCampaign4 and 72 PIB statements have been issued indicating widespread participation in Special campaign 4.0. A collation of best practices under the Special Campaign 4.0 would be brought out by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances as part of Good Governance Week 2024 activities.  

     

    *****

    AG

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    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, and the Asian Development Bank conclude the Climate and Health Solutions India Conclave with Strategic Insights for Future Action

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, and the Asian Development Bank conclude the Climate and Health Solutions India Conclave with Strategic Insights for Future Action

    Discussion on “Climate Resilient and Responsive Health Systems and Infrastructure”, chaired by representatives from 19 states and Union Territories, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu

    The conclave served as vital platform to develop concrete, actionable, and forward-thinking solutions, highlighting the urgency of integrating climate action with public health strategies

    As India stands at a critical juncture, we have the opportunity—not just to respond to the challenges of climate change and public health, but to lead the global agenda on these issues: Union Health Secretary

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 1:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The second day of the Climate and Health Solutions (CHS) India Conclave, co-hosted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), concluded successfully in Delhi. The two-day conclave focused on the urgent intersection of climate change and public health in India, convening policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to develop actionable strategies for the health sector in the face of these pressing challenges.

    The day’s proceedings began with a series of insightful roundtables. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on critical issues, including Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), Mental Health, Nutrition, Climate-Ready Healthcare Human Resources, Blended Finance for Climate-Health Bold Bets, Digital Technologies and Data, and the development of Climate-Resilient and Responsive Health Systems and Infrastructure.

    With over 330 participants at the conclave, one of the highlights of Day 2 was a roundtable discussion on “Climate Resilient and Responsive Health Systems and Infrastructure”, chaired by representatives from 19 states and Union Territories, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. This session emphasized the urgent need for adaptive infrastructure capable of withstanding the increasing frequency of extreme weather events.

    The roundtable on “Non-Communicable Diseases, Nutrition and Mental Health” had key discussions featuring varied contributions. Dr. Cherian Varghese discussed the Kerala floods and how climate change is impacting the social determinants of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly livelihoods, access to healthcare, and the disproportionate impact on the most vulnerable. Dr. Naveen Kumar C discussed mental health implications and its direct and indirect implications, while Dr. Bhuvaneswari Balasubramanian, from the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), highlighted the integration of climate change and nutrition.

    In the session on “Blended Finance for Climate-Health Bold Bets,” Ms. Jaya Singh, Policy and Programme Lead for the Asia Pacific Region at United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth, & Development Office, underscored the government’s role in establishing regulations and safeguards for private sector investors in climate and health. She also called for attractive funding models, such as green catalytic funding and guarantee-based grants, to support targeted sectors including infrastructure, health, and education. Himanshu Sikka, Program Lead, Pahal Samridh, highlighted that despite 25% of the global disease burden being linked to environmental risk factors, only 0.5% of international climate finance goes to health.

    The session also showcased innovations on the conclave sub-thematic areas, such as a Climate Risk Observatory Tool for heat and health mapping and management, Pluss Technologies, Blackfrog Technologies, and Redwings for climate resilient health infrastructure and the work of ARTPARK, IISc Bangalore for climate and health early warning systems.

    Culminating in a focused workshop on climate and health Transformational at Scale led by senior government officials and ADB representatives, participants comprehensively showcased the sub-thematic outcomes of the two-day conclave aligning health systems with climate objectives. The conclave served as a vital platform to develop concrete, actionable, and forward-thinking solutions, highlighting the urgency of integrating climate action with public health strategies. Participants from various states and sectors successfully initiated dialogues and action plans that will shape India’s approach to health and climate in the years to come.

    In his closing remarks at the Valedictory Conclusion, Shri Apurva Chandra, Secretary of MoHFW, expressed gratitude to all participating stakeholders, experts and policymakers. He stated, “As we conclude this significant Climate and Health Solutions Conclave, our focused discussions over the past two days have illuminated the intertwined crises of climate change and public health, showcasing the power of collective action. The solutions presented in our deep-dive sessions have paved the way for actionable strategies that integrate climate-conscious thinking into health policies. As India stands at a critical juncture, we have the opportunity—not just to respond to these challenges but to lead the global agenda on climate and health. Let us translate the insights gained here into tangible actions for a resilient future.”

    Going forward, ADB and MoHFW will publish an outcome document detailing the eight key conclave topics, identified outcomes, and an accompanying bouquet of activities that will inform national, regional and sub-national climate and health action plans. The Climate and Health Solutions (CHS) Multi-Stakeholder Thought and Action India Conclave will serve as a blueprint for future climate-health provincial sprints, bootcamps, and initiatives in India.

    Ms. LS Changsan, Additional Secretary, Public Health, MoHFW, and Ms. Latha Ganapathy, Joint Secretary, Public Health, MoHFW, lauded the gathering as a monumental conclave that is a turning point in India’s health sector. Ms. Ayako Inagaki, Senior Director, Human and Social Development Sector Office, and Dr. Dinesh Arora, Principal Health Specialist, Health Practice Team from the Asian Development Bank echoed that the India experience will serve as a precedent for climate and health agenda building and operationalization initiation across Asia, the Pacific and beyond.

    *****

     

    MV/AKS

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    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government to Install Tourist Feedback

    Source: Government of India

    Government to Install Tourist Feedback

    Mechanism at Airports and Railway Stations across the Country

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 2:43PM by PIB Delhi

    In a bid to engage and involve citizens in tourism development and growth, Ministry of Tourism is introducing mechanisms at airports and railway stations across the country, for tourists to provide their feedback on their visits to tourist attractions and destinations in India.

    Feedback and rating of experiences by is travellers is being done by enabling them to scan a QR code placed at relevant points at airports and railway stations, while spending around 30 seconds to rate their tourist experience and provide any feedback.

    This feedback will be real-time and dynamic in nature allowing the Ministry to address issues in a proactive manner in collaboration with various stakeholders. This will also prove to be a rich source of data and insights for tourism development.

    By installing the QR code provided by Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India and Ministry of Railways, Government of India are collaborating with Ministry of Tourism for setting up of these mechanisms at airports and railway stations across the country, so that over time, they become a reliable source of insight and information for tourism policy and strategy.

    ***

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    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Food Corporation of India (FCI) strengthens Storage and Transportation Infrastructure with Silo Projects

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 11:34AM by PIB Delhi

    As a part of 100 Days Achievements of Department of Food and Public Distribution under Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has successfully developed several state-of-the-art silo projects under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. These projects mark a significant step in modernizing India’s food grain supply chain, ensuring efficient and sustainable storage and movement of essential commodities.

    The latest addition to FCI’s infrastructure includes six operational silos strategically located in different regions of the country. These silo projects, built on a Design, Build, Finance, Own & Operate (DBFOO) or Design, Build, Finance, Operate & Transfer (DBFOT) basis, have been developed with private investment and are now fully operational.

    Key Highlights of the Silo Projects:

    1. Darbhanga Silo Project (Bihar):

    Developed under the DBFOO model by M/s Adani Agri Logistics (Darbhanga) Ltd., this project includes a 50,000 MT storage capacity and a dedicated railway siding. It was completed in Commissioned in April 2024 and is now fully operational.

    1. Samastipur Silo Project (Bihar):

    Similar to the Darbhanga project, this silo in Samastipur was developed by M/s Adani Agri Logistics (Samastipur) Ltd. with a 50,000 MT capacity. Completed in May 2024, the facility is now operational.

    1. Sahnewal Silo Project (Punjab):

    Developed under the DBFOT model by M/s Leap Agri Logistics (Ludhiana) Pvt. Ltd., this project features a 50,000 MT capacity and supports local farmers by improving grain procurement and storage efficiency in Punjab. The project was completed in May 2024.

    1. Baroda Silo Project (Gujarat):

    With a 50,000 MT storage capacity, the Baroda Silo was completed in May 2024 by M/s Leap Agri Logistics (Baroda) Pvt. Ltd. and is operational, enhancing grain storage capabilities in the region.

    1. Chheheratta Silo Project (Punjab):

    Located in Amritsar, this facility was developed by M/s NCML Chhehretta Pvt. Ltd. with a 50,000 MT storage capacity. Completed in May 2024, it now provides essential storage for grains procured from farmers in the region.

    1. Batala Silo Project (Punjab):

    Located in Gurdaspur, the Batala Silo project, developed by M/s NCML Batala Pvt. Ltd., was completed in June 2024. With a 50,000 MT capacity, it further enhances FCI’s storage infrastructure in the region, benefiting numerous local farmers.

    These silos will significantly enhance the Food Corporation of India (FCI)’s ability to ensure food security in several critical ways:

    1. Enhanced Storage Capacity
    2. Better Preservation
    3. Reduced Losses
    • IV. Efficient Handling and Bulk Storage
    1. Automated Systems
    • VI. Enables better quality control of stored grains.
    1. Built with integrated rail and road transportation links,
    2. Facilities designed for mechanized bulk loading and unloading
    • IX. Lower Operating Costs

    These silo projects and transportation initiatives are part of FCI’s broader efforts to ensure food security and reduce losses by improving storage and transportation infrastructure. The silos are equipped with modern technology, ensuring better preservation of grains, reducing losses, and supporting farmers by providing improved procurement facilities.

    ***

    AD/NS

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    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Tourism announces Winners of Best Tourism Villages Competition-2024

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Tourism announces Winners of Best Tourism Villages Competition-2024

    36 villages recognized as winners across 8 categories

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 2:38PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Tourism, Government of India announced winners of the Best Tourism Villages Competition 2024, today, on 27th September, 2024, on the occasion of World Tourism Day.

    To promote tourism to the Soul of India (India’s villages), the Best Tourism Villages Competition was introduced in 2023. The focus was to identify and recognize villages which preserve and promote cultural and natural assets through community-based values and commitment to sustainability in all aspects.

    The first edition of the Best Tourism Villages Competition in 2023 saw applications from 795 villages. In the second edition of the Best Tourism Villages Competition, a total of 991 applications were received from 30 States and UTs, out of which 36 villages were recognized as winners across 8 categories of the Best Tourism Villages competition 2024.

    These 36 are as follows:

    S.No

    Name

    State / UT

    Category

    1

    Dhudmaras

    Chhattisgarh

    Adventure Tourism

    2

    Aru

    Jammu & Kashmir

    Adventure Tourism

    3

    Kuthlur

    Karnataka

    Adventure Tourism

    4

    Jakhol

    Uttarakhand

    Adventure Tourism

    6

    Kumarakom

    Kerala

    Agri Tourism

    7

    Karde

    Maharashtra

    Agri Tourism

    8

    Hansali

    Punjab

    Agri Tourism

    9

    Supi

    Uttarakhand

    Agri Tourism

    5

    Baranagar

    West Bengal

    Agri Tourism

    10

    Chitrakote

    Chhattisgarh

    Community Based Tourism

    11

    Minicoy Island

    Lakshadweep

    Community Based Tourism

    12

    Sialsuk

    Mizoram

    Community Based Tourism

    14

    Deomali

    Rajasthan

    Community Based Tourism

    13

    Alpana Gram

    Tripura

    Community Based Tourism

    15

    Sualkuchi

    Assam

    Craft

    17

    Pranpur

    Madhya Pradesh

    Craft

    18

    Umden

    Meghalaya

    Craft

    16

    Maniabandha

    Odisha

    Craft

    19

    Nirmal

    Telangana

    Craft

    20

    Hafeshwar

    Gujarat

    Heritage

    21

    Andro

    Manipur

    Heritage

    22

    Mawphlang

    Meghalaya

    Heritage

    23

    Keeladi

    Tamil Nadu

    Heritage

    24

    Pura Mahadev

    Uttar Pradesh

    Heritage

    25

    Dudhani

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    Responsible Tourism

    26

    Kadalundi

    Kerala

    Responsible Tourism

    27

    Tar Village

    Ladakh

    Responsible Tourism

    28

    Sabarvani

    Madhya Pradesh

    Responsible Tourism

    29

    Ladpura Khas

    Madhya Pradesh

    Responsible Tourism

    34

    Ahobilam

    Andhra Pradesh

    Spiritual And Wellness

    30

    Bandora

    Goa

    Spiritual And Wellness

    31

    Rikhiapeeth

    Jharkhand

    Spiritual And Wellness

    32

    Melkalingam Patti

    Tamil Nadu

    Spiritual And Wellness

    33

    Somasila

    Telangana

    Spiritual And Wellness

    35

    Harsil

    Uttarakhand

    Vibrant Village

    36

    Gunji

    Uttarakhand

    Vibrant Village

    ****

    BeenaYadav

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    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar to inaugurate the 20th Divya Kala Mela in Pune on 28th September 2024

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar to inaugurate the 20th Divya Kala Mela in Pune on 28th September 2024

    Close to 100 Divyang artisans, artists and entrepreneurs from around 20 States/UTs to showcase a diverse array of products and cultural diversity in the Mela – an embodiment of the ‘Vocal for Local’ movement

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 2:40PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar would be inaugurating the 20th Divya Kala Mela, in Pune, Maharashtra tomorrow. This event will be held from 28th September to 6th October 2024, at PWD Ground, New Sangvi, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune. The Mela is being organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) [DEPwD], under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, through National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC), an apex corporation under the DEPwD.

    The Divya Kala Mela stands as a unique celebration of the craftsmanship, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of Divyang (Persons with Disabilities) artisans, artists, and entrepreneurs from across India. Approximately 100 Divyang participants from over 20 states and Union Territories will showcase an eclectic assortment of products, including home décor, clothing, eco-friendly stationery, toys, and personal accessories. Visitors will also have the chance to explore a range of organic packaged foods, handlooms, and exquisite embroidery work.

    Aligned with the government’s vision to “go vocal for local,” the mela aims to provide a larger platform for Divyang artisans to market and promote their products, fostering their economic empowerment. The event encourages visitors to support these skilled artisans who have overcome physical challenges with inspiring determination and creativity. After earlier successful events in various cities across the country, Pune is set to host another grand celebration of diversity, creativity, and inclusion.

    Running daily from 11:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M., the mela will also offer a vibrant cultural experience, featuring performances by Divyang artists and renowned professionals. The grand cultural highlight, Divya Kala Shakti, scheduled for 6th October, will showcase performances by talented Divyang artists from across the country.

    *****

    VM

    (Release ID: 2059420) Visitor Counter : 74

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    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia leads “North East Trade and Investment Roadshow” in Bengaluru, invites investors to North East

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 26 SEP 2024 11:21PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region (MDoNER) successfully organised Northeast Trade and Investment Roadshow in Bengaluru today. The event commenced on a highly positive note, captured significant attention and attracted a substantial number of participants. The event was graced by Hon’ble Minister of Communications and MDoNER, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, along with senior government officials from the Ministry and eight North Eastern States.

     

    Hon’ble Minister Shri Jyotiraditya. M. Scindia while underlining the immense potential of the North Eastern Region, emphasized that the region holds a tremendous future for Viksit Bharat. He highlighted that under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister, North Eastern Region is the focus point of the Government of India, as a result of which various initiatives such as Act East Policy, UNNATI etc. have been taken for the holistic development of the region. Further, continuous efforts are being made by the Government of India toward strengthening connectivity whether it is rail, road, air, waterways and telecommunication. He mentioned that the fund flow to the region has increased tremendously during the last ten years. The region has huge potential in Agriculture, Healthcare, IT& ITeS, Education, Tourism & Hospitality; Energy; Entertainment & Sports. The North East is home to incredible sporting talent, particularly in boxing, archery, and football, with athletes from the region excelling on national and international stages. Government of India aims to promote regional sports leagues to harness this potential. In tourism, each state in the North East is a jewel. The MDoNER is committed to developing world-class infrastructure in the North Eastern Region. He referred that Bengaluru being the silicon valley of India, has lot of opportunities to explore and replicate in the North Eastern Region in the IT & ITeS sector like IT hubs, centers of excellence in emerging technologies, and opportunities in data analytics etc.

     

    Shri Chanchal Kumar, Secretary of MDoNER, addressed the gathering saying all eight states provide unique opportunities under the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Act East Policy initiative. In the last 10 years, the connectivity in the North Eastern Region has increased manifold. He emphasized that the region has enabling investment ecosystem, which can facilitate the investors. Further, MDoNER as well as the North Eastern States Governments are set to commit for extending necessary support for investing in the region.

     

    Ms. Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary of MDoNER, in her address on advantage North East and Opportunities for Investment and Trade emphasized that North Eastern Region has rich untapped potential. Over the past decade, the government has successfully completed numerous pending projects, benefiting local communities and millions of people through various schemes/initiatives. She also highlighted the opportunities in the region in various sectors like Education, Healthcare, Tourism, IT&ITes, Energy, Sports etc. She state that MDoNER is dedicated to facilitating investment opportunities and enhancing the region’s investment ecosystem. The Northeast region is confident for growth, with strategic investments, and can emerge as a leader in various sectors, benefiting both the local population and the nation as a whole.

    Government officials from North Eastern States, alongside representatives from FICCI (Industry Partner), and Invest India (Investment Facilitation Partner), shared valuable insights into opportunities across focus sectors. Each state presented comprehensive overviews of their unique investment prospects. The event attracted active participation from multiple leading businesses, highlighting strong interest in the region’s investment landscape.
     

    The North East Region boasts a strategic location with easy access to ASEAN economies, offering lucrative opportunities for businesses. Rapid infrastructure development is underway, with the establishment of new technology hubs and industrial parks, further enhancing business potential of the region.

    As part of this summit, successful roundtable events have taken place with various states, including Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Sikkim, and Nagaland. Previous roadshows in Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata garnered encouraging participation, while the State Seminar at Vibrant Gujarat attracted significant interest from potential investors.

    The Bengaluru Roadshow generated considerable interest from investors. Anticipated as a transformative event, the Roadshow in Bengaluru witnessed several B2G meetings generating potential interest from investors in the North Eastern States of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim, and Nagaland.

    *****

    MG/SB/DP

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    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Reaffirms Commitment to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance at the “High-Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance” convened by the President of the General Assembly at the 79th session of United Nations General Assembly

    Source: Government of India

    India Reaffirms Commitment to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance at the “High-Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance” convened by the President of the General Assembly at the 79th session of United Nations General Assembly

    Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel highlights urgent need for global cooperation to address the growing threat of AMR

    AMR poses a critical threat to global public health undermining decades of progress made in the field of modern medicine: Smt. Anupriya Patel

    “Urgent need for integration of AMR containment strategies into the various health programs including those focussed on pandemic preparedness, health system strengthening and universal health coverage”

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 8:23AM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel highlighted the urgent need for global cooperation to address the growing threat of AMR during her intervention at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) today.

    Addressing the gathering, Smt. Patel underscored that “AMR poses a critical threat to global public health undermining decades of progress made in the field of modern medicine”. She called for the “urgent integration of AMR containment strategies into the various health programs including those focussed on pandemic preparedness, health system strengthening and universal health coverage with focus of resource utilisation more on prevention and mitigation than surveillance”.

    The Union Minister highlighted India’s significant strides in combating AMR since the launch of its National Action Plan (NAP AMR) in April 2017. She also underscored the progress made in expanding surveillance networks both in human and animal sector, reducing hospital acquired infections by improving infection prevention & control and promoting responsible antimicrobial use across human and animal health sectors. “Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) has been strengthened through comprehensive and country wide trainings of healthcare workers. Sanitation, hygiene and infection control in healthcare facilities has been improved through programmes under the Clean India Mission”, she said.

    Smt. Patel highlighted that “a nationwide systematic and standardised surveillance of healthcare associated infections (HAI) has been initiated in the country”. “Regulations are in place to ensure prescription-based sales of antimicrobials. To promote judicious use of antimicrobials, National Treatment Guidelines are updated on regular basis”, she further stated.

    It was informed that India has developed an Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) Program to reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions and combat rising AMR. This program is tailored for resource-limited settings and is being adopted by many hospitals in the country.

    India has also prioritized inter-sectoral collaboration as part of its updated NAP-AMR 2.0, which includes budgeted action plans for each sector and well-defined monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. The existing “One Health” frameworks in the country are to be utilised to enhance coordination across human, animal, and environmental sectors in tackling AMR. In addition to innovation, operational research to find solutions to reduce impact of AMR on the environment has been prioritised.

    The Union Minister concluded her remarks by expressing appreciation for the efforts of member states of UN in drafting the High-Level Ministerial Declaration on AMR and reaffirmed India’s commitment to fighting AMR through both national and global efforts.

    “India remains fully committed to addressing the AMR challenge through comprehensive sectoral and inter-sectoral efforts. By working together, we can mitigate the risks posed by AMR and safeguard the future of public health worldwide”, she said.

    ***

    MV

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    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia inaugurates 5G Open RAN testing Lab at CDoT, Bangalore

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia inaugurates 5G Open RAN testing Lab at CDoT, Bangalore

    Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia also inaugurates Wireless Center of Excellence at Tejas Networks

    Encourages young engineers to continue their zeal and passion to innovate for realizing the vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” towards achieving “Viksit Bharat 2047”

    Posted On: 26 SEP 2024 10:59PM by PIB Delhi

    Minister of Communications, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia today visited Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) Bengaluru Campus and inaugurated 5G O-RAN  testing lab. He later inaugurated the “Tejas Centre of Excellence for Wireless Communications” at their Bengaluru Headquarters. He also launched the company’s indigenously designed 32T32R Massive MIMO radio capable of delivering 1+ Gbps download speeds using 5G mid-band spectrum. 

    Visit of Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT)

    Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia inaugurated 5G  O-RAN  testing lab that will benefit the Startups, Academia  and the industry to test various components of 5G open RAN system developed by them. He also witnessed a 5G call using open RAN based 5G radio developed by C-DOT in Bengaluru Campus. The Lab will facilitate development of a complete Indian end-end 5G ecosystem in the areas of core, access, transport, cloud, orchestration and security.

    The Minister started the visit by planting a  tree in the campus of C-DOT. He visited 4G, 5G and Server labs  at C-DOT Bengaluru and lauded the efforts of C-DOT’s scientists in developing low-cost novel indigenous telecom products and solutions. He encouraged the young engineers to continue their zeal and passion to innovate for realising the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister  towards “Atmanirbhar Bharat”  and  progressing to  “Viksit Bharat 2047”.

    During his visit, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia also had a fruitful and motivating interaction with many prominent Bengaluru-based startups and domestic industry partners who are actively engaged in collaborative development of cutting-edge indigenous technologies and solutions, like, Astrome, Astromeda Space, Chipspirit Technologies, Cimware, DeepVisionTech.AI, Elena Geo systems, Fasal Agri Tech, Lekha Wireless, LivNsense Technologies, Tejocell, Nimble Vision, Niral Networks, Niqo Robotics, OptimusLogic, QPIAI, Resonous, Signaltron, SuperQ Technologies, Vacus Tech, Xten Networks, Xoviam Aerospace, etc.  Startups demonstrated their innovations and products to the Minister.

    The Minister lauded C-DOT’s collaborative research initiatives including BharatRAN-1 and BharatRAN-2 for the development of O-RAN compliant disaggregated 5G RAN solution capable of operation in the FR1 and FR2 bands for public & private 5G networks. He assured full policy  support for facilitating research and innovation in Bengaluru, the ‘Silicon Valley’ of India.

     

     

     

     

    Tejas Center of Excellence for Wireless Communications

    While at the Tejas campus, the Minister congratulated the company and said, “it is a demonstration that Indian companies can design and manufacture high-quality, cutting-edge products and successfully compete against the best global players in the telecom sector”.  “I am truly impressed to see the wide range of world-class wireless and wireline products that Tejas has developed in India which form an integral part of all major networks in India and in several countries around the world,” he added.  The Minister also commended the company for its contribution to the ongoing rollout of BSNL’s pan-India 4G/5G network by supplying and installing their indigenous RAN (Radio Access Network) equipment.

    The “Tejas Center of Excellence for Wireless Communications” at Tejas Networks seeks to advance research in frontier technologies, standards and architectures that will underpin next-generation mobile networks as they evolve towards 6G and beyond. The Center of Excellence houses state-of-the-art modeling tools and test infrastructure to design, prototype and commercialize innovative wireless products and solutions that will support emerging usage scenarios and applications as envisaged in ITU-R’s IMT-2030 (International Mobile Telecommunications) framework. The center currently focuses on contributions in emerging areas such as AI/ML, Massive MIMO, Terahertz Communications, Sub-band Full Duplex among others.   

    As part of Minister’s two days visit of Bengaluru and Chennai, Sh Scindia will be inaugurating Cisco’s new manufacturing plant in Chennai tomorrow, 27th September, 2024.This facility will be producing advanced telecom and networking equipment, which is essential for 5G and future technologies.

    *****

    MG/SB/DP

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIAN OCEAN RIM ASSOCIATION SEMINAR

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 27 SEP 2024 9:56AM by PIB Delhi

    The second edition of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) seminar on Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing was conducted at Naval War College, Goa on 25 Sep 24. The seminar reviewed the IUU fishing activities in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), its implications in the economic, environmental and security domain, and the legal voids in tackling these activities that could be pursued by the IORA member states.

    Delegates from 17 IORA countries including Australia, Bangladesh, France, Indonesia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Oman, Somalia, South Africa, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Tanzania participated in the issue based discussions to counter the ever growing menace of IUU Fishing in IOR.

    *****

    VM/SPS                                                                                                    

    (Release ID: 2059304) Visitor Counter : 65

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Press Release – Launching of the Samoa State of Environment 2023 and the National Environment Sector Plan 2023-2027

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    (September 13, 2024 – Taumeasina Island Resort)

    The Government of Samoa through its Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is pleased to announce the official launch of Samoa’s Fourth State of Environment (SOE) 2023 Report and the National Environment Sector Plan (NESP) 2023-2027. This milestone underscores Samoa’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its unique environment and promoting sustainable development in alignment with global and regional goals.

    The State of Environment 2023 provides an in-depth assessment of the current condition of Samoa’s natural resources, ecosystems, and biodiversity showing a mix of good, fair and poor conditions. It highlights both the progress made and the critical challenges faced in four key thematic areas of

    i)Natural Environment,

    ii) Built Environment

    iii) Atmosphere, Climate & Disaster

    iv) Environmental Governance.

    Some of the key indicators assessed the vital environmental components including Terrestrial Biodiversity and Ecosystems, Inland Waters, Forests, Soil and land resources, Invasive species management, Marine and Coastal ecosystems and fisheries, Waste generation and management, sanitation access, potable water management, environment compliance and monitoring, Greenhouse Gas emissions, consumption of Ozone depletion substances, Energy and renewables, physical climate, natural hazards and climate change impacts. Furthermore assessed environment governance and management by looking at the overall government allocation for environment initiatives, gender equality and MEA and international reporting obligations.

    With these findings, the SOE using the DPSIR Model identifies the Drivers – underlying factors that lead to environmental changes, Pressures – actions that directly stress the environment, State – the condition of the environment as a result and Impacts – the effects on the environment. The R of the DPSIR Model is the Response – which are the measures taken to address environmental impacts and improve or manage the state of the environment. Responses include policies, regulations, technological innovations, research, public awareness and so forth.

    The National Environment Sector Plan 2023-2027 is the response framework to address the recommendations and outcomes of the SOE and provides the platform and impetus needed for coordinated action and responsibility amongst us to achieve environmental sustainability, climate and disaster resilience.

    With its overarching goal of, “Securing environmental sustainability and enhanced climate and disaster resilience”, Four Long Term Outcomes (LTO) are prioritized in its pursuit. Within the four LTO’s are thirteen (13) End of Sector Plan Outcomes developed to progress the implementation of the NESP over the five year period.

    Hon. Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Afioga Toeolesulusulu Cedric Salesa Pose Schuster in his keynote address, stressed the importance of this dual launch as a significant milestone in Samoa’s journey towards environmental sustainability.

    The government is confident that through continued cooperation and proactive measures, Samoa can meet the challenges posed by environmental degradation and climate change.

    The Ministry acknowledges with gratitude the continuous technical and financial support from SPREP and UNEP, the close collaboration and exceptional contribution of all Environment Sector stakeholders and partners which made this feat possible.

    END.

    SOURCE – Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Samoa

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    September 27, 2024

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024
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