Category: Economy

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Surajkund International Crafts Mela realizing the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat’ – Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Source: Government of India

Surajkund International Crafts Mela realizing the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat’ – Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

India is presently hosting two major events that are drawing global attention Maha Kumbh Mela and the Surajkund International Crafts Mela, which showcases India’s unity, culture and artistic heritage – Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Inaugurates the 38th Surajkund International Crafts Mela

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 6:33PM by PIB Delhi

The 38^th Surajkund International Crafts Mela was inaugurated today with great grandeur in Surajkund, district Faridabad. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat graced the occasion as the chief guest and formally inaugurated the event.

Haryana Chief Minister, Shri Nayab Singh Saini, Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, Shri Vipul Goel, Social Justice, Empowerment, Scheduled Castes & Backward Classes Welfare and Antyodaya (SEWA) Minister, Shri Krishan Kumar Bedi, Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Shri Rajesh Nagar and Minister of State for Sports attended the opening ceremony.

The Surajkund International Crafts Mela will be organized from February 7^th to February 23^rd showcasing extraordinary art, craftsmanship, and talent from artisans and artists across India and the world.

Speaking on this occasion, Union Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that India is presently hosting two major events that are drawing global attention that is the Maha Kumbh Mela and the Surajkund International Crafts Mela, which showcases India’s unity, culture and artistic heritage. He emphasized that Surajkund Mela is not just a marketplace for crafts but a significant platform for craftsmen and artisans to showcase their ancient skills. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the vision of Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat that we envision is being realized through this fair.

Shri Shekhawat said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has transformed in the past decade, transforming its old image of poverty and underdevelopment. With the successful implementation of various welfare schemes at the grassroot level, Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has brought 25 crore people out of below poverty line. Today, India is the world’s fastest-growing economy, he added.

He further said that the cultural and creative economy are now formally recognized worldwide as the “Orange Economy.” He believes that the Surajkund Mela will help Indian craftsmen find new opportunities in both domestic and international markets. The minister said that India’s tourism industry is reaching new heights, with a boost in both domestic and international travel.

Immense Potential of MICE tourism in Haryana

The Union Minister said that Haryana has advantage due to its proximity to Delhi and has its potential to become a hub for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism. He said that the state should explore this opportunity to the fullest. He also suggested further expanding Surajkund Mela’s reach via digital marketing. Inviting YouTubers, photographers, and social media influencers to cover the Mela could significantly enhance its global appeal and provide artisans with new business opportunities.

The minister said that India will emerge as a developed nation in the next 25 years and urged the younger generation to take pride in contributing to the country’s progress. Surajkund Mela is a reflection of India’s Cultural Identity and Global Brotherhood

Speaking on the occasion, Haryana Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini said that Surajkund and the ongoing International Crafts Mela have become a unique symbol of not just Haryana but the entire nation. The mela exemplifies the ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ and provides a platform to showcase Indian crafts and culture to the world.

He extended best wishes to the Haryana Tourism Department, the Union Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Ministries of Textiles, Culture, and External Affairs, and the Surajkund Mela Authority for successfully organizing this grand event.

Live : उद्घाटन समारोह 38वां सूरजकुण्ड अन्तर्राष्ट्रीय हस्तशिल्प मेला https://t.co/8GqahAkTSB

— Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (@gssjodhpur) February 7, 2025

***

Sunil Kumar Tiwari

tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2100768) Visitor Counter : 43

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cabinet approves extension of the tenure of National Commission for Safai Karamcharis for three years beyond 31.03.2025

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 8:43PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the extension the tenure of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK) for three years beyond 31.03.2025 (i.e. upto 31.03.2028).

The total financial implication for the extension for three years of the NCSK would be approximately Rs.50.91 crore.

IT would help in facilitating socio-economic upliftment of sanitation workers, improving the working conditions in the sanitation sector and aiming to achieve zero fatalities while performing hazardous cleaning.

Mandate of the NCSK is to:

(a) recommend to the Central Government specific programmes of action towards elimination of inequalities in status, facilities and opportunities of Safai Karmacharis;

(b) study and evaluate implementation of the programmes and schemes relating to the social and economic rehabilitation of Safai Karmacharis and scavengers in particular;

(c) investigate specific grievances and take suo-motu notice of matter relating to non-implementation of (i) programmes or schemes in respect of any group of Safai Karmacharis, (ii) decisions, guidelines etc. aimed at mitigating the hardships of Safai Karmacharis; (iii) measures for the social and economic upliftment of Safai Karmacharis etc,

(d)     study and monitor the working conditions, including those relating to health safety and wages of Safai Karmacharis,

(e)     make reports to the Central or State Government on any matter concerning Safai Karmacharis, taking into account any difficulties or disabilities being encountered by Safai Karmacharis; and

(f)      any other matter which may be referred to it by the Central Government.

Under the provisions of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 (MS Act 2013), NCSK shall perform the functions namely:

             i.        to monitor the implementation of the Act;

            ii.        to enquire into complaints regarding contravention of the provisions of this Act and to convey its findings to concerned authorities with recommendations requiring further action;

           iii.        to advice the Central and State Govt for effective implementation of the provisions of this Act; and

           iv.        to take suo-motu notice of matter relating to non-implementation of this Act.

Background:

The National Commission for Safai Karamcharis Act, 1993, was enacted in September, 1993 and a statutory National Commission for Safai Karmcharis was first constituted in August, 1994.

*****

MJPS/BM

(Release ID: 2100849) Visitor Counter : 87

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cabinet Approves Continuation and Restructuring of Skill India Programme

Source: Government of India

Cabinet Approves Continuation and Restructuring of Skill India Programme

Programme to Strengthen Workforce Development & Make skilling the backbone of country’s economic growth

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 8:40PM by PIB Delhi

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today approved the continuation and restructuring of the Central Sector Scheme ‘Skill India Programme (SIP)’ till 2026 with an overlay outlay of Rs.8,800 crore from the period 2022-23 to 2025-26.

This approval underscores the government’s commitment to building a skilled, future-ready workforce by integrating demand-driven, technology-enabled, and industry-aligned training across the country.

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0), the Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS), and the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme – the three key components, are now combined under the composite Central Sector Scheme of “Skill India Programme”. These initiatives aim to provide structured skill development, on-the-job training, and community-based learning, ensuring that both urban and rural populations, including marginalized communities, have access to high-quality vocational education. Under the three flagships schemes of Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, there are more than 2.27 Crore beneficiaries till date.

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0:

PMKVY 4.0 scheme provides NSQF aligned skill development training through Short-Term Training (STT) including Special Projects (SP) and reskilling and upskilling through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) with its target beneficiary being 15-59 years of age. The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0) has undergone transformational changes to make skill development training industry oriented, aligned with national priorities with increased accessibility. A key shift under the scheme is the integration of On-the-Job Training (OJT) within short-term skilling programs, ensuring that trainees gain real-world exposure and industry experience. To keep pace with evolving industry demands and advent of new age technology, 400+ new courses on AI, 5G technology, Cybersecurity, Green Hydrogen, Drone Technology, have been introduced, focusing on emerging technologies and future skills.

The blended and flexible learning model now incorporates digital delivery, making training more flexible and scalable. To provide targeted, industry-relevant skills, enabling learners to upskill, reskill, and enhance employability in high-demand job roles, the program introduces micro-credential and National Occupational Standards (NoS)-based courses ranging from 7.5 to 30 hours.

To maximize cross utilization of existing infrastructure and to expand access to quality training, Skill Hubs have been established across premier academic institutions, including IITs, NITs, and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs), Kendriya Vidyalayas, Sainik Schools, Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS), PM Shri Schools, Toolrooms, NILET, CIPET etc. PMKVY 4.0 ensures industry-aligned training with curriculum available in multiple regional languages, making skilling more inclusive and accessible. Over 600 trainee and trainer handbooks have been translated into eight regional languages to enhance learning outcomes.

To strengthen quality training and assessments, a national pool of one lakh assessors and trainers is being developed, ensuring standardization and expertise across training centers. Industry partnerships ensure access to employment opportunities through Recruit Train Deploy (RTD) training.

Additionally, the scheme places a strong emphasis on international mobility, ensuring Indian workers are equipped with globally recognized skills. Ministry has Mobility Partnership Agreements (MMPAs) and MoUs with various countries and has conducted necessary sectorial skill gap studies. Under the scheme, enablement of training in domain skills, joint certifications, language proficiency, and soft skills have been initiated to enhance the international mobility opportunities for our workforce.

Under PMKVY 4.0, a whole-of-government approach has been adopted to drive inter-ministerial convergence, ensuring the seamless execution of skilling initiatives across sectors. The scheme caters to the skilling components of various skill development and entrepreneurship schemes, maximizing impact and resource efficiency. Key collaborations include PM Vishwakarma under the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, and the National Green Hydrogen Mission of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, NAL JAL Mitra etc.

To enhance efficiency, procedural changes have been introduced, including the realignment of the demand assessment strategy to better identify sectoral skill gaps and industry needs. A key reform in PMKVY 4.0 is the “Ease of Doing Business” approach, which has significantly reduced the compliance burden, making participation in the scheme more streamlined and efficient.

PM National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS):

The National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, 2015 focuses on apprenticeship as one of the key components for creating skilled manpower in India. Apprenticeship training can play a major role for on-the-job vocational training where youth can acquire skills by working at actual workplace and earn some stipend, at the same time, to financially support himself. Apprenticeship is considered, globally as well, as the best model for skill acquisition and earning while learning.

The Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS) supports seamless transition from education to work, ensuring apprentices gain industry-specific skills through real-world exposure. To support both apprentices and establishments in India, 25% of the stipend, up to Rs.1,500 per month per apprentice, will be provided through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) during the training period, provided by the Central Government. The scheme is designed for individuals aged 14 to 35 years, ensuring inclusive access to skill development opportunities across various demographics.

NAPS encourages apprenticeship opportunities in prevailing manufacturing including emerging fields such as AI, robotics, blockchain, green energy, and Industry 4.0 technologies. This aligns skilling initiatives with futuristic job markets and industry trend. The scheme also encourages enrolment of apprentices in small establishments especially Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and those located in the underserved areas such as aspirational districts and North-East Region.

Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) scheme:

The Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) scheme is a community-centric skilling initiative designed to make vocational training accessible, flexible, and inclusive, particularly for women, rural youth, and economically disadvantaged groups and caters to the age group of 15 -45 years of age. By delivering low-cost, doorstep training with flexible schedules, JSS ensures that skilling opportunities reach those who need them the most, fostering both self-employment and wage-based livelihoods. Beyond skill development, the program plays a vital role in social empowerment, creating awareness on health, hygiene, financial literacy, gender equality, and education within communities JSS is linked with key initiatives of the Government like: PM JANMAN, Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society (ULLAS), etc. to promote inclusive skilling.

Aligned with national frameworks, all certifications under the Skill India Program are mapped to the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) and seamlessly integrated with DigiLocker and the National Credit Framework (NCrF), ensuring formal recognition of skills and enabling smooth transitions into employment and higher education.

With the continuation of the Skill India Programme, the government seeks to reinforce its commitment to lifelong learning, recognizing the importance of continuous upskilling and reskilling in today’s rapidly changing employment landscape. The initiative will directly contribute to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data, ensuring that workforce development policies remain aligned with economic and industrial trends.

The Skill India Programme plays a crucial role in equipping India’s workforce with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy. By integrating industry-relevant training, emerging technologies, and international mobility initiatives, the program aims to create a highly skilled and competitive workforce. As a key driver of economic empowerment, Skill India contributes to employment generation, entrepreneurship, and productivity enhancement across sectors. The Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) remains committed to strengthening vocational education, expanding apprenticeship opportunities, and fostering lifelong learning, ensuring that India’s workforce is future-ready and positioned as a global leader in skill-based employment.

(For more details, visit: https://www.skillindiadigital.gov.in/home)

*****

MJPS/BM

(Release ID: 2100847) Visitor Counter : 46

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IMPACT OF UNSEASONAL RAINFALL AND EXTREME WEATHER ON AGRICULTURE

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 6:30PM by PIB Delhi

As per the National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM), the primary responsibility for disaster management, including disbursal of relief assistance on ground level, rests with the State Governments concerned. The State Governments undertake relief measures in the wake of natural calamities, from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) already placed at their disposal, in accordance with Government of India’s approved items and norms. The Central Government supplements the efforts of the State Governments and provides requisite logistics and financial support. Additional financial assistance is provided from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), as per laid down procedure, in case of disaster of ‘severe nature’, which includes an assessment based on the visit of an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT). The financial assistance provided under SDRF and NDRF is by way of relief and not for compensation.

Data regarding crop losses due to any natural calamities is not maintained centrally. However, as per information received from States, the details of crop losses due to hydro-meteorological disasters during 2024-25 are at ‘Annexure’.

The details of funds allocated and released under SDRF/NDRF during the current financial year i.e. 2024-25 available at the website of this Ministry i.e. www.ndmindia.mha.gov.in.

Government has introduced yield-based Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and weather index based Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) from Kharif 2016 to provide financial support to farmers suffering crop loss/damage arising out of natural calamities, adverse weather incidence and to stabilize the income of farmers etc. Comprehensive risk insurance is provided under the scheme from pre-sowing to post-harvest losses.

The PMFBY/RWBCIS scheme is being implemented on Area Approach basis and claims are worked out as per designated formula based on the season end yield data submitted by the concerned State Government irrespective of reasons of crop loss/ claims. Claims are required to be paid within 21 Days from calculation of claims on NCIP irrespective of whether Insurance Companies have raised the demand for 2nd or final tranche of premium subsidy and whether the verification and Quality Check has been completed by Insurance Companies. Failing which, penalty shall be auto calculated and levied as per relevant provisions through NCIP.

Since inception of the schemes in 2016, the amounts of claims paid under PMFBY and RWBCIS is Rs. 172138 crores to 19.59 crore no. of farmer applications.

Details of damages as reported by State/UT due to hydro-meteorological disasters during the year 2024-25

Provisional (as on 27.01.2025)

S. No.	State	Cropped Area affected (in lakh ha.)
1	Andhra Pradesh	0.11
2	Arunachal Pradesh	–
3	Assam	1.38
4	Bihar	–
5	Chhattisgarh	–
6	Goa	–
7	Gujarat	–
8	Haryana	–
9	Himachal Pradesh	–
10	Karnataka	2.86
11	Kerala	–
12	Madhya Pradesh	–
13	Maharashtra	–
14	Manipur	0.01
15	Meghalaya	0.01
16	Mizoram	0.21
17	Nagaland	0.03
18	Odisha	0.22
19	Punjab	–
20	Rajasthan	–
21	Sikkim	–
22	Tamil Nadu	4.00
23	Telangana	–
24	Tripura	–
25	Uttar Pradesh	3.95
26	Uttarakhand	0.05
27	West Bengal	1.38
28	Delhi	–
29	Jammu & Kashmir	0.02
30	Puducherry	0.01
	Total	14.24

This information was given by Minister of State the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

******

MG/KSR

(Release ID: 2100762) Visitor Counter : 66

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PROVISION OF MARKET FACILITY UNDER DAM

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 6:28PM by PIB Delhi

The government has approved the Digital Agriculture Mission on 2nd September 2024 with an outlay of Rs. 2817 Crore. The mission seeks to enable a robust digital agriculture ecosystem in the country for driving innovative farmer-centric digital solutions and making available timely and reliable crop-related information to all the farmers in the country. The Mission envisages the creation of Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture such as AgriStack, Krishi Decision Support System, Comprehensive Soil Fertility & Profile Map and other IT initiatives undertaken by Central Government/State Governments. AgriStack project is one of the major components of this Mission, which consists of three foundational registries or databases in the agriculture sector, i.e., the Farmers’ Registry, Geo-referenced village maps and the Crop Sown Registry, all created and maintained by the State Governments/ Union Territories. The government is providing administrative and technical support to all the states for implementation of the mission. AgriStack provides comprehensive and useful data on farmers’ demographic details, land holdings, and crops sown, enabling farmers to digitally identify and authenticate them for accessing benefits and services such as credit, insurance, procurement etc. It also enables state to design solutions that open access for farmers to the digital economy such as Purchase and Sell of Inputs and Produce online in a trustful manner.

Further, Government is implementing National Agriculture Market (e-NAM), a virtual platform integrating physical wholesale mandis/ markets of different States/ Union Territories (UTs) to facilitate online trading of agricultural commodities through transparent price discovery method to enable farmers to realize better remunerative prices for their produce. As on 31stDecember, 2024, 1410 mandis of 23 States and 04 Union Territories (UTs) have been integrated with e-NAM platform.

This information was given by Minister of State the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

******

MG/KSR

(Release ID: 2100759) Visitor Counter : 54

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Assessment of impact of PM-KISAN

Source: Government of India

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

Assessment of impact of PM-KISAN

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 6:27PM by PIB Delhi

The PM-KISAN scheme is a central sector scheme launched in February 2019 by the Hon’ble Prime Minister to supplement the financial needs of land-holding farmers. Under the scheme, a financial benefit of Rs 6,000/- per year is transferred in three equal instalments, into the Aadhaar seeded bank accounts of farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.

A farmer-centric digital infrastructure has ensured the benefits of the scheme reach all the farmers across the country without involvement of any middlemen. Maintaining absolute transparency in registering and verifying beneficiaries, the Government of India has disbursed over Rs 3.46 lakh Cr. in 18 installments since inception.

The Government of India is committed to include all eligible left out farmers in the Scheme and to saturate the scheme with all eligible farmers, the Government has launched several campaigns. A major saturation drive was taken up from the 15^th Nov 2023, under the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, with more than 1 Cr. eligible farmers included under the scheme. The Government of India also undertook another saturation drive from June, 2024 and within first 100 days of the new Government, over 25 lakh eligible farmers were included in the Scheme. With the significant efforts taken by the Government, the number of beneficiaries who have received benefits in the 18th instalment increased to 9.59 Cr.The State-wise details of the beneficiaries benefited through the 18^th instalment of the PM-Kisan is attached at Annexure-1.

An independent study conducted by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) in 2019. According to the study, funds disbursed under the PM-KISAN have acted as a catalyst in rural economic growth, aided in alleviating the credit constraints of farmers, and increased investments in agricultural inputs. Further, the scheme has enhanced farmers’ risk-taking capacity, leading them to undertake riskier but comparatively productive investments. The funds received by recipients under PM-KISAN are not only helping them with their agricultural needs, but it is also catering to their other expenses such as education, medical, marriage, etc. These are the indicators of the positive impact of the scheme on the farmers of the country. PM KISAN has truly been a game changer for the farming community of our country.

Annexure

Number of beneficiaries benefitted under PM-KISAN during 18^th instalment (August 2024-November 2024)

State Name	No. of Beneficiaries
ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS	12,832
ANDHRA PRADESH	41,22,499
ARUNACHAL PRADESH	90,464
ASSAM	18,87,562
BIHAR	75,81,009
CHANDIGARH
CHHATTISGARH	25,07,735
DELHI	10,829
GOA	6,333
GUJARAT	49,12,366
HARYANA	15,99,844
HIMACHAL PRADESH	8,17,537
JAMMU AND KASHMIR	8,58,630
JHARKHAND	19,97,366
KARNATAKA	43,48,125
KERALA	28,15,211
LADAKH	18,207
LAKSHADWEEP	2,198
MADHYA PRADESH	81,37,378
MAHARASHTRA	91,43,515
MANIPUR	85,932
MEGHALAYA	1,50,413
MIZORAM	1,10,960
NAGALAND	1,71,920
ODISHA	31,50,640
PUDUCHERRY	8,033
PUNJAB	9,26,106
RAJASTHAN	70,32,020
SIKKIM	28,103
TAMIL NADU	21,94,651
TELANGANA	30,77,426
THE DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI AND DAMAN AND DIU	11,587
TRIPURA	2,29,362
UTTAR PRADESH	2,25,78,654
UTTARAKHAND	7,96,973
WEST BENGAL	45,03,158
Grand Total	9,59,25,578

This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

******

MG/KSR/489

(Release ID: 2100758)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary launches Swavalambini, a women entrepreneurship programme, for the Northeast

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary launches Swavalambini, a women entrepreneurship programme, for the Northeast

‘Swavalambini’: An initiative to nurture entrepreneurial aspirations of women in Higher Education Institutes

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 6:27PM by PIB Delhi

In a significant push towards promoting women entrepreneurship in the northeast, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), in collaboration with NITI Aayog launched Swavalambini – a Women Entrepreneurship Programme – in Assam, Meghalaya and Mizoram. This initiative is aimed at empowering female students in select Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the northeast by equipping them with the essential entrepreneurial mind-set, resources, and mentorship they need to succeed in their entrepreneurial journey.

For the first time MSDE through Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) in collation with NITI Aayog, a structured stage-wise entrepreneurial process—from awareness to development, mentorship, and funding support, has been introduced. Those who successfully build their ventures will be recognized and awarded, ensuring that their success stories inspire others. This initiative will define a clear process for how we nurture and scale women-led enterprises in India.

The virtual programme witnessed the inauguration of the initiative in 9 colleges and universities by Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Minister of State, Ministry of Education, Govt of India. Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, MSDE along with other senior officials of the Ministry were also present during the launch.

The program is being implemented across several HEIs, including Gauhati University, North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Kiang Nangba Government College, RiBhoi College, Mizoram University, Government Champai College, Lunglei Government College, Handique College and Dispur College, among others.

Speaking on the transformative initiative, Shri Jayant Chaudhary stated: “The Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme is a commitment to empower, enable, and elevate young women as job creators and leaders of tomorrow. The program aims to nurture talent focusing on a region brimming with potential and will provide the support necessary to scale their ideas into sustainable businesses.”

“Our government has consistently championed women-led entrepreneurship through key programs like Start-Up India, Stand-Up India, PM Mudra Yojana, and the Women Entrepreneurship Platform. The recently announced Union Budget 2025 further reinforces this commitment, with increased funding and policy support for start-ups, including a 10,000 crore fund and an extension of the 100% tax exemption on start-up profits for another five years. By providing targeted support, mentorship, and funding, Swalambini represents a new chapter in our journey towards women-led entrepreneurship, which is critical to India’s transformation,” he added.

The initiative aims to provide structured training through the Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme (EAP) which introduces 600 female students to entrepreneurship as a viable career option through a 2-day session covering basic entrepreneurial concepts and opportunities. For 300 selected students, the Women Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) offers an intensive 40-hour training covering crucial business aspects such as training and skilling, access to finance, market linkages, compliance and legal support, business services, and networking opportunities. This will be followed by six months of mentorship and handholding support to help participants translate their ideas into sustainable prospects.

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has already laid the foundation for an entrepreneurship-driven curriculum by emphasising skill integration, industry collaboration, and hands-on experience. Swalambini will build on this framework, ensuring that young women particularly in North-Eastern states receive the necessary guidance and financial backing to transform their ideas into scalable businesses, unlocking the immense entrepreneurial potential of women in these regions.

Recognising the critical role of educators in promoting an entrepreneurial mind-set, the program will also focus on upskilling the faculty in the HEIs with a 5-day Faculty Development Programme (FDP), enabling them to effectively train and mentor students in entrepreneurship. Faculty members will undergo specialised training modules designed to provide them with the latest industry insights, business incubation strategies, and hands-on coaching techniques.

A unique aspect of the program is the Award to Rewards Initiative, which will celebrate and recognise successful women entrepreneurs emerging from Swalambini. This will act as an inspiration for the next generation of female business leaders, reinforcing the message that women-led enterprises are instrumental in shaping India’s economic future. This program will also utilise workshops, mentoring support, and seed funding to create sustainable women-led enterprises.

The Swavalambini Programme is set to create avenues for women in business, aspiring to see 10% of EDP trainees launch successful enterprises. By instilling a culture of entrepreneurship within HEIs, this initiative is a significant step in the right direction to celebrate and uplift the next generation of women leaders.

***

PSF

(Release ID: 2100760) Visitor Counter : 53

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority fixes ceiling prices in respect of the drugs specified in Schedule-I to Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013
Source: Government of India

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority fixes ceiling prices in respect of the drugs specified in Schedule-I to Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013

NPPA has fixed ceiling prices of 131 scheduled anticancer formulations under National List of Essential Medicines to make cancer drugs affordable and accessible to the masses

NPPA has also fixed retail prices of 28 anti-cancer formulations of applicant manufacturing and marketing companies, under the DPCO, 2013 provisions relating to fixing of retail prices of new drugs

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 5:40PM by PIB Delhi

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) under the Department of Pharmaceuticals fixes ceiling prices under the provisions of Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 (DPCO, 2013) in respect of the drugs specified in Schedule-I to DPCO, 2013. Manufacturers of scheduled medicines (both branded and generic) are required to sell their products within the ceiling price (plus applicable Goods and Service Tax) fixed by NPPA. In addition, NPPA fixes the retail price of new drugs as defined in DPCO, 2013. The retail price of a new drug is applicable to the applicant manufacturer and marketer, who are required to sell the new drug within the price notified by NPPA. In case of non-scheduled formulations, a manufacturer is at liberty to fix the maximum retail price (MRP) of drugs launched by it. However, as per DPCO, 2013, a manufacturer is required to not increase MRP of a non-scheduled drug by more than 10% of MRP during the preceding 12 months. In addition to the above, the ceiling price of a drug may also be fixed under certain circumstances, in public interest.

The aforesaid Schedule to DPCO, 2013 consists of the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM), 2022 notified by the Department of Health and Family Welfare. NLEM, 2022 includes 63 anti-cancer drugs, including immunosuppressives and medicines used in palliative care.

Various measures have been taken to make cancer drugs affordable and accessible to the masses, including, among others, the following:
1. NPPA has fixed ceiling prices of 131 scheduled anti-cancer formulations under NLEM. These include 111 formulations whose prices were fixed under the NLEM, 2015. Refixation of the same under NLEM, 2022 has resulted in reduction of around 21% from the ceiling prices fixed under NLEM, 2015, leading to annual savings of around ₹294.34 crore to patients.
2. NPPA has fixed retail prices of 28 anti-cancer formulations of applicant manufacturing and marketing companies, under the DPCO, 2013 provisions relating to fixing of retail prices of new drugs.
3. In addition, NPPA has put a cap of 30% trade margin on 42 non-scheduled anti-cancer medicines, in public interest, which has resulted in reduction of MRP of 526 brands of these medicines by an average of around 50% and annual savings of around ₹984 crore to patients.
4. Government reduced customs duty to nil and GST rates from 12% to 5% for three anti-cancer drugs in the financial year (FY) 2024-25 and NPPA has issued directions to companies to reduce MRP to pass on the tax benefit to consumers.
5. Exemption/concessions in customs duty on identified anti-cancer medicines has also been announced in the budget for FY 2025-26.
With the objective of promoting domestic manufacturing of drugs, the Department of Pharmaceuticals is implementing the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Pharmaceuticals with total financial outlay of ₹15,000 crore with scheme tenure till the financial year 2027-28. 54 anti-cancer drugs are being manufactured under this scheme.

Under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), health assurance/insurance cover of ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary or tertiary care hospitalisation to about 60 crore beneficiaries is being provided. The treatment packages under AB-PMJAY are comprehensive and cover various treatment related aspects, including drugs and diagnostic services. Further, under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, quality medicine are offered through Jan Aushadhi Kendras at rates that are typically 50% to 80% lower than the prices of branded medicines available in the market. In addition, under the Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) initiative of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, medicines for treatment of cancer, cardiovascular and other diseases, implants, surgical disposables and other consumables etc. are provided at significant discounts of up to 50% of market rates through AMRIT Pharmacy stores set up in some hospitals/institutions. Moreover, financial assistance is provided to poor patients belonging to families living below poverty line, who suffer from major life-threatening diseases including cancer, under the umbrella scheme of Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi and the Health Minister’s Discretionary Grant (HMDG). Financial assistance of up to ₹15 lakh is provided under the Health Minister’s Cancer Patient Fund under the umbrella scheme of RAN, and assistance of up to ₹1.25 lakh is provided under HMDG to defray part of the treatment cost.

This information was given by the Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Smt Anupriya Patel in Lok Sabha in written reply to a question today.

*****

MV/AKS

(Release ID: 2100720) Visitor Counter : 59

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Over 284 Crore Aadhaar Authentications in January 2025; 32% jump y-o-y sign of g͟rowth of digital economy with Aadhar playing an integral role in daily life

Source: Government of India (2)

Over 284 Crore Aadhaar Authentications in January 2025; 32% jump y-o-y sign of g͟rowth of digital economy with Aadhar playing an integral role in daily life

Aadhaar’s AI-powered Face Authentication becoming popular with 12 Crore transactions recorded in January in sectors spanning finance, health, telecommunications, etc.

Union and State Departments embracing Aadhaar Face Authentication for swift delivery of citizen centric s ervices

Expanding Digital Frontiers: Aadhaar e-KYC transactions cross 43 crore in January 2025

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 5:08PM by PIB Delhi

In January 2025, Aadhaar holders conducted more than 284 crore authentication transactions, highlighting the continued expansion of the digital economy in India. This significant number demonstrates the g͟rowth of digital economy in the country.

The authentication transactions in January 2025 have recorded a growth of over 32% when compared with January 2024, when 214.8 crore such transactions were carried out.

Growing adoption and utility of Aadhaar

On an average over nine crore authentications are taking place every day. This shows the growing adoption and utility of Aadhaar in the daily lives of people. Nearly 550 entities are using Aadhaar authentication service.

Aadhaar face authentication transactions too are getting good traction. In January, almost 12 crore Aadhaar face authentication transactions were carried out. Cumulatively, Face Authentication transaction numbers have crossed 102 crore, since it was first introduced in October 2021. Nearly 78 crore of the total face authentication transactions were recorded in the past 12 months alone.

The AI/ML based face authentication solution, developed in house by the UIDAI, is being used across diverse sectors including finance, insurance, fintech, health and telecommunications. Several Government departments both at the centre and states are using it for smooth delivery of benefits to targeted beneficiaries.

Crucial role of Aadhaar e-KYC servic

Aadhaar e-KYC service continues to play an important role for banking and non-banking financial services by providing transparent and improved customer experience, and helping in ease of doing business.

More than 43 crore eKYC transactions were carried out during January this year. By the end of January 2025, the cumulative number of Aadhaar e-KYC transactions gone past 2268 crore.

****

Dharmendra Tewari/ Kshitij Singha

(Release ID: 2100685) Visitor Counter : 62

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri Rammohan Naidu meets Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 5:05PM by PIB Delhi

Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu met Union Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi today and discussed the problems being faced by red chilly farmers in Andhra Pradesh. During the meeting Senior officers from the Ministry of Agriculture were also present. Later, speaking to the media Shri Rammohan Naidu said the Government of Andhra Pradesh is planning to procure red chilies and he urged the Union Agriculture Minister to provide financial support to the state government under various schemes. Stating that Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan responded positively to the request of Andhra Pradesh Government.

Shri Rammohan Naidu said he had handed over a letter from Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Shri Chandrababu Naidu explaining the problems of red chilli farmers to Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

*****

MG/KSR

(Release ID: 2100682) Visitor Counter : 82

Read this release in: Hindi

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: First Merchants Corporation Announces Cash Dividend

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MUNCIE, Ind., Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Merchants Corporation declared a cash dividend on February 7, 2025 of $0.35 per share. The dividend is payable on March 21, 2025, to common shareholders of record as of March 7, 2025. For purposes of broker trading, the ex-date of the cash dividend is March 6, 2025.

About First Merchants Corporation:

First Merchants Corporation is a financial holding company headquartered in Muncie, Indiana. The Corporation has one full-service bank charter, First Merchants Bank. The Bank also operates as First Merchants Private Wealth Advisors (as a division of First Merchants Bank).

First Merchants Corporation’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market System under the symbol FRME. Quotations are carried in daily newspapers and can be found on the company’s Internet web page (http://www.firstmerchants.com).

FIRST MERCHANTS and the Shield Logo are federally registered trademarks of First Merchants Corporation.

For more information, contact:
Nicole M. Weaver, First Vice President and Director of Corporate Administration
765-521-7619
http://www.firstmerchants.com

The MIL Network –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall in USTR Nominee Hearing: How Can We Build on President Trump’s Trade Success?

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. participated in the nomination hearing for President Trump’s U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Nominee, Jamieson Greer, in the Senate Finance Committee this week.
Senator Marshall questioned Mr. Greer on President Trump’s history of tariffs and trade, and how he will properly utilize United States trade relations to prioritize American interests.
Jamieson Greer has a storied career dedicated to the military, trade, and international relations. He also served in Kansas as an officer in the United States Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps and was deployed to Iraq as Chief of Military Justice. He worked in private firms focusing on trade law and international trade. As Chief of Staff to the previous USTR, Robert Lighthizer, he has the experience and the record of playing a pivotal role in President Trump’s successful trade negotiations across the world.
[embedded content]
You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full line of questioning.
Highlights from Mr. Greer’s nomination hearing include:
On Joe Biden’s vs. President Trump’s history of fair, reciprocal trade agreements:
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D.: “…Under President Trump, he gave us [the United States-Mexico-Canada] Agreement. He gave us South Korea to improve Japanese trade agreement, so important to American beef and China Phase One. Mr. Greer, what trade agreements were accomplished under Joe Biden?”
Mr. Jamieson Greer, Nominee, U.S. Trade Representative: “Senator, I’m not aware of any.”
Senator Marshall: “Okay, I want to compare and contrast a little bit here more. Let’s talk about Mexico. I think it’s one of the simpler ones to understand…Under Joe Biden, Mexico undermined American farms. He harmed commerce. He bullied U.S. companies. He shut down the GMO corn exports, forcing a huge dispute. Mexico hampered U.S. energy protection under Joe Biden, and Mexico seized a U.S. mining company operation near Cozumel. What can you do? What can we do to reverse this behavior?”
Mr. Greer: “…any trade agreement we have is only as valuable as the enforcement behind it. And so my view is, all these issues you talked about with Mexico, whether it be energy or corn, et cetera, we need to enforce that. I know that, you know, there’s a case that was done on the corn issue. I’m going to enforce that. I know that there were consultations open on energy. We’re going to we’re going to bring that up with the Mexicans as well. Listen, good fences make good neighbors. If we want to have good, ongoing trade relations with folks, we have to hold them accountable.”
On leveling the global trade playing field for American biofuels:
Senator Marshall: “Let’s talk about biofuels for a second. I’ve never seen such an uneven playing field for American biofuels. The U.S. is subject to 18% tariffs going into Brazil with biofuels, yet Brazil enjoys virtually free access to the U.S., and in many cases, thanks to some scientific voodoo, they’re actually giving Brazil a preference over American biofuels as well.”
“The EU continues to be protectionist against us, ethanol. Chinese used cooking oil exports. You’re familiar with how they’re abusing that. You would think that if we’re going to give tax credits, we would make sure they’re not going to benefit foreign entities, especially those who wish to harm us. What can you do to help the biofuels industry and try to level that playing field?”
Mr. Greer: “Well, Senator, this is the specific kind of unfairness that drives me crazy. And it’s not just me. The President himself, he sees these kinds of unfairnesses and the unlevel playing field. And it’s so it’s so obvious, it’s so blatant. It’s gone for so long. You know, again, in the first instance, you can certainly go to somebody like the Brazilians and say, you need to fix this, but it has to be followed up with or else, right? I mean, that’s a little crude, but we need to have leverage, and if we need to gain leverage by taking investigatory actions or other actions, we’ll do that. It would be much better to do this on a negotiating basis, but we’ll do whatever we need to do to try to fix the situation.”
On ensuring Chinese compliance with President Trump’s Phase One trade deal:
Senator Marshall: “Let’s talk about China for a second…How can we build on President Trump’s success under Phase One with China?”
Mr. Greer: “We need to start by reviewing it and actually assessing whether or not the Chinese have complied with it, or to what degree. In fact, the President has already directed the office of the USTR to do this…We want to be able to very clearly see where they did or did not comply. And then from there you move to dispute settlement, and you move to enforcement if you need to. And again, hopefully, this is an area where countries will understand the unfairness and change because they know that President Trump is serious about this, that I’m serious about this. If they don’t, then you move for that last part of enforcement.”
On utilizing tariffs as a tool to advance American interests:
Senator Marshall: “…You know, under President Trump, he used tariffs, but we saw minimal inflation – so at the end of the day, those tariffs were not passed on to Americans in the big picture… the big picture is for one reason or another, those tariffs were used properly, and we were able to not pass that on to American consumers. Mr. Greer, is there a way to do that going forward as well, to effectively use, these tariffs as a weapon, as a tool?”Mr. Greer: “I agree 100% with that. What we learned from the first term is that President Trump and his economic team are very good at managing the economy. And we saw real median household income go up by $7,000 over three years before the pandemic hit – and this was at a time when we were imposing tariffs in a way we hadn’t done in many years. And when we look at inflation under the Biden administration that happened in 2022, it wasn’t about tariffs. It was about health care and housing and food, things we don’t import from China, right? So we know that we can manage this. We know we have a strong economic team, and if I’m confirmed, I expect to be able to take strong trade action while helping ensure that the economy is growing for average Americans.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Future of EU long-term financing: Post-2027 needs and how to finance them – 07-02-2025

Source: European Parliament

The adoption of the next multiannual financial framework (MFF) for the period from 2028 will be one of the second von der Leyen Commission’s defining projects. Striking a delicate balance between the EU’s growing financial needs and many Member States’ reluctance to shoulder higher payments to the EU has always been a challenging task. However, never before have the EU’s many financial needs been greater – and, at the same time, Member States’ budgets are under heavy constraints. On the expenditure side, several costly projects are on the horizon. The EU’s next long-term budget will have to finance the principal repayment of Next Generation EU (NGEU) grants from 2028 onwards, as well as borrowing costs that are higher than originally planned owing to a rise in interest rates. Other major expenditure items will include further financial support for Ukraine in its defence against Russia’s war of aggression and the subsequent contribution to recovery and reconstruction, the need to enhance the EU’s defence, security and preparedness, and the cost of EU enlargement. In addition, the EU must continue to invest in high-growth projects and its green and digital transformation in order to remain competitive, as recently underlined by the former president of the European Central Bank, Mario Draghi, in his high-level report on competitiveness. To finance the repayment of the NGEU debt, the European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission have agreed to introduce new own resources. However, although the Commission presented a proposal, approved by Parliament, no significant progress has so far been made on new own resources in the Council. Some Member States consider increased gross national income-based own resources as a simpler and fairer solution, which they want to combine with savings in existing areas as a way to balance the budget. Parliament has started shaping its position for the forthcoming debate on the next MFF with a draft initiative report, ‘A revamped long-term budget for the Union in a changing world’, presented by co-rapporteurs Siegfried Mureșan (EPP, Romania) and Carla Tavares (S&D, Portugal).

MIL OSI Europe News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Funding for the water supply of the Municipality of Volos, which was affected by the natural disasters – E-000364/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000364/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Georgios Aftias (PPE)

Thessaly – and especially Magnesia – has been hit by the recent natural disasters, resulting in a major water supply problem in the region.

The Municipality of Volos has drawn up a specific water resources management plan with scientific precision, as emphasised by the municipal authority. That work indicates projects that need to be implemented, ensuring the sustainable and proper management of the 40-year old water supply problem. The scientific study, as described by the Municipality of Volos, processed and evaluated the area’s geological, hydrological and qualitative data, along with the water requirements for urban, touristic, irrigation and industrial uses.

In light of the above,

1.Can the Commission indicate whether the work can be financed with European funds and in what way?

2.Can the Commission indicate whether the work can be included in the Thessaly Region 2025 emergency works, given that the Regions take a leading role in subsidising projects?

Submitted: 28.1.2025
Last updated: 7 February 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Green transition and RRF: assessment of how climate action resources have been used – E-000422/2025
Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-000422/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Marco Squarta (ECR), Antonella Sberna (ECR), Francesco Ventola (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Giovanni Crosetto (ECR), Ruggero Razza (ECR), Stefano Cavedagna (ECR), Daniele Polato (ECR), Elena Donazzan (ECR), Carlo Ciccioli (ECR), Alessandro Ciriani (ECR), Mario Mantovani (ECR), Francesco Torselli (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Paolo Inselvini (ECR)

According to European Court of Auditors report 14/2024, the billions of euros allocated through the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) to support the green transition do not seem to have generated significant results in terms of climate impact.

The court notes gross inefficiencies, including overestimations in climate coefficients, lack of transparency in reporting and difficulties in identifying clear and precise indicators, despite at least 37 % of national allocations being earmarked for climate action.

These findings highlight the limits of an ideological environmental policy, which risks directing large amounts of public resources to ineffective initiatives and diverting them from the goal to boost the EU’s competitiveness, all while creating more red tape for businesses, citizens and public administrations.

In the light of the above:
- 1.How does the Commission justify the use of public funds for measures which, according to the European Court of Auditors, have not achieved tangible results in the green transition?
- 2.Would it be willing to reconsider its priorities, putting more emphasis on the economy and growth with a view to achieving pertinent milestones and targets, while ensuring more flexibility for Member States?
Submitted: 30.1.2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: Self Inspection Secures $3 Million to Accelerate AI-Powered Vehicle Inspections for Car Loans and Fleet Management
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Self Inspection, an AI-powered platform for the $30 billion automotive inspections market, announced today that it closed a $3 million seed round. The round was co-led by Costanoa Ventures and DVx Ventures, with participation from Westlake Financial, one of the largest financial institutions for automotive loans.

“Vehicle inspections are expensive, can take weeks to complete, and rely on outdated methods with a significant margin of error,” said Constantine Yaremtso, founder and CEO of Self Inspection. “Slow, inaccurate and expensive inspections create obstacles and a poor experience in millions of mobile transactions. Our tech completes inspections with greater speed, accuracy and customization, which can save financial institutions millions of dollars and speed up a sales process by weeks.”

Millions of cars require inspection after a car rental, to be sold after a lease return, trade or repossession, or to create an accurate condition report to accelerate a sale. If one inspection is not done correctly or at all, it can result in arbitration when a car is sold (or increased rental fees), reversing transactions and costing thousands of dollars in expenses and time.

Self Inspection provides standardized condition reports in minutes with increased real-time accuracy, a significant improvement compared to the current manual process. Key highlights from the company’s progress so far:
- Avis, the third largest rental car provider in the U.S., uses it to facilitate rental inspections and car transactions. Alaska Rent A Car, Inc. an Avis Licensee, is the first state to fully deploy it.
- CarOffer, a leading digital wholesale platform, part of CarGurus (CARG), uses Self Inspection as part of its vehicle appraisal process.
- Westlake Financial, the largest privately held finance company in the automotive industry, handles over a million vehicle transactions annually and now exclusively relies on Self Inspection to deliver condition reports to dealers during trade-ins, re-marketing and repossession processes.
Most inspections requiring an on-site visit can take days to weeks and often lack critical information like subtle defects, cost estimates, etc. Self Inspection’s AI-enhanced inspection platform quickly creates a detailed report of the entire vehicle, including exterior, interior, tires and mechanical components, with 99% accuracy based on advances in computer vision and AI models.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Self Inspection team to bring this product to life. Westlake Financial is already integrating Self Inspection across our business units, and have seen significant value to detect and assess issues, as well as substantial savings that we can pass to our consumers,” said Ian Anderson, president of Westlake Financial. “We need to maintain accurate records of a vehicle’s condition to ensure correct valuations, manage risk effectively, prevent fraud and determine fair prices for our customers. Self Inspection allows us to streamline and standardize our processes, ensuring accurate vehicle assessments with precise, data-backed reports at scale.”

Self Inspection is significantly more accurate than current photo-based models, which cannot effectively detect subtle defects or mechanical issues. In contrast, Self Inspection’s proprietary AI models are trained on one of the largest datasets of damaged vehicles to quickly detect and assess damage severity. This data is used to provide detailed cost estimates for repairs, resulting in one of the most thorough vehicle inspection reports available in the industry.

“We are excited to support the Self Inspection team in their mission to transform the vehicle inspection industry through AI. The traditional vehicle inspection process is ripe for innovation, and Self Inspection’s solution addresses a critical need by providing accurate, efficient and scalable inspections,” said Karim Bousta, partner at DVx Ventures and automotive industry expert. “This technology not only streamlines operations for auto lenders, dealerships and rental companies but also sets a new benchmark for quality, reliability and a seamless digital experience in the $30 billion vehicle inspection market.”

“Innovation that can modernize a massive traditional industry, like automotive, and solve a critical need through AI is poised for long-term growth,” said Greg Sands, managing partner at Costanoa Ventures. “Self Inspection built a reliable AI-powered vehicle inspection platform that ensures data-backed trust every time a vehicle changes hands. This will prove radically useful as the industry evolves.”

Yaremtso, a Ukrainian immigrant, founded the company in 2021 with former leaders from Apple, NVIDIA and Coinbase who bring significant AI and automotive experience. Self Inspection plans to use the funds to expand its engineering team in both Ukraine and the U.S. to accelerate product development and enhance machine learning algorithms to optimize and expand use cases.

For more information and to keep up with the latest news from Self Inspection and its traction in the automotive industry, visit https://www.selfinspection.com/.

About Self Inspection
Headquartered in San Diego, Self Inspection was founded in 2021 and is an AI-powered solution in the automotive industry dedicated to revolutionizing the $30 billion vehicle inspection industry. The platform leverages cutting-edge AI technology to deliver unparalleled accuracy and efficiency in vehicle inspections to cut costs and save time through automated, self-guided inspections. Founded by industry veterans with extensive experience in AI, software development and the automotive industry, the company is backed by Costanoa Ventures, DVx Ventures and Westlake Financial. For more information, visit https://www.selfinspection.com/.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9fd9346e-be1c-46e1-9c70-bb2c00af106b

The MIL Network –
February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Colleagues Push to Expand Access to Job Training Programs

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Susan Collins (R-ME) to introduce the Jumpstarting Our Businesses by Supporting Students (JOBS) Act, bipartisan legislation to help more Americans get good-paying jobs by allowing students to use federal Pell Grants –– need-based education grants for lower-income individuals –– to pay for shorter-term job training programs for the first time.

Currently, Pell Grants can only be used at two- and four-year colleges and universities. By expanding Pell Grant eligibility, the JOBS Act would help close the skills gap by opening access to job training that students might otherwise be unable to afford but need for careers in high-demand fields.

“Increasing the supply of workers ready and able to fill in-demand jobs is exactly what our economy needs to thrive. As more students choose to pursue skills-based careers, we can ensure this pathway is open to everyone including those who need financial assistance to start that journey. I’m pleased to champion this bipartisan effort that can help more Americans receive job training,” Boozman said.

“No one should be priced out of an education—including a technical education—but I hear from many Virginians that access to high-quality job training programs that align with their goals is out of reach because of financial barriers,” said Kaine. “Simultaneously, I hear from employers throughout the Commonwealth about their struggles to fill skilled labor positions. With these Virginians in mind, I wrote the JOBS Act to help remedy these issues and provide more workers with the skills they need to get good-paying jobs and provide for their families. This bill is good for workers, good for employers, and good for our economy as a whole.”

“Job training programs are proven, successful tools that help people gain the skills they need to prepare for rewarding careers,” said Collins. “By helping students in Maine and across the country access this career pathway, this bipartisan legislation would assist young people with obtaining good-paying jobs and make it easier for businesses to find qualified workers.”

The JOBS Act would allow Pell Grants to be used for high-quality job training programs that are at least eight weeks in length and lead to industry-recognized credentials or certificates. Under current law, Pell Grants can only be applied toward programs that are over 600 clock hours or at least 15 weeks in length, rendering students in shorter-term, high-quality job training programs ineligible for crucial assistance.

Specifically, the JOBS Act would amend the Higher Education Act by:
• Expanding Pell Grant eligibility to students enrolled in rigorous and high-quality, short-term skills and job training programs that lead to industry-recognized credentials and certificates and ultimately employment in high-wage, high-skill industry sectors or careers.
• Ensuring students who receive Pell Grants are earning high-quality postsecondary credentials by requiring that the credentials:
o Meet the standards under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), such as meaningful career counseling and aligning programs to in-demand career pathways or registered apprenticeship programs;
o Are recognized by employers, industry or sector partnerships;
o Align with the skill needs of industries in the state or local economy; and
o Are approved by the state workforce board in addition to the U.S. Department of Education.
• Defining eligible job training programs as those providing career and technical education instruction at an institution of higher education, such as a community or technical college that provides:
o At least 150 clock hours of instruction time over a period of at least eight weeks;
o Training that meets the needs of the local or regional workforce and industry partnerships;
o Streamlined ability to transfer credits so students can continue to pursue further education in their careers; and
o Licenses, certifications, or credentials that meet the hiring requirements of multiple employers in the field for which the job training is offered.
The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dan Sullivan (D-AK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Roger Wicker (R-MS) and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

The JOBS Act is supported by Advance CTE, the American Association of Community Colleges, the Association for Career and Technical Education, the Association of Community College Trustees, the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, Business Roundtable, the Center for Law and Social Policy, the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance, Higher Learning Advocates, HP Inc., the Information Technology Industry Council, Jobs for the Future, the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, NAF, the National Association of Workforce Boards, the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals, the National Skills Coalition, the Progressive Policy Institute and Rebuilding America’s Middle Class.

Click here to view text of the bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Doechii’s Thom Browne look at the Grammys bridged street culture and luxury fashion

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Pierre-Yann Dolbec, Associate Professor of Marketing, Concordia University

American rapper Doechii turned heads on the Grammy Awards red carpet on Feb. 2 in a striking Thom Browne ensemble: an off-the-shoulder corset suit dress with exaggerated hips, paired with a crisp white shirt and grey tie.

The look was both classic and undeniably subversive — a fitting image for the transformation of the fashion world since the early 2000s. Not too long ago, the idea of a rap artist spotlighting a luxury tailor’s creation would have seemed jarring.

Streetwear and high fashion once lived in separate worlds. Luxury brands sold exclusivity; haute couture, hand-stitched gowns and fine tailoring. Streetwear, on the other hand, was about authenticity and everyday life, with deep ties to subcultures around skateboarding and hip-hop.

While designers at major high fashion houses occasionally took inspiration from street style in the 1990s and early 2000s — for instance, borrowing stylistic innovations from hip-hop and grunge — high fashion brands kept streetwear brands and designers at a distance.

When Harlem designer Daniel R. Day — better known as Dapper Dan — repurposed Louis Vuitton and Gucci prints into custom streetwear pieces in the late 1980s, luxury labels sued him out of business. When Supreme used Louis Vuitton’s monogram on its skateboards in 2000, the fashion house hit them with a cease-and-desist order.

Yet, Doechii’s four custom Thom Browne looks for the Grammys highlight how close hip-hop culture and high fashion now are.

The birth of luxury streetwear

The clear divide between streetwear and luxury fashion didn’t happen by accident. In the early 2010s, designers such as Virgil Abloh, Jerry Lorenzo and Shayne Oliver bridged the gap between streetwear and high fashion by pioneering what came to be known as “luxury streetwear.”

This emerging style blended streetwear staples with luxury fashion production, values and beliefs. Designers crafted hoodies in Italy, integrated sneakers and tees into showstopping runway presentations. Like high fashion houses, they anchored their collections around artists and elevated conceptual work, transforming streetwear-inspired design into an art form.

By mixing streetwear’s authenticity with high fashion exclusivity, brands like Fear of God, Hood by Air and Off-White gained the respect of luxury consumers and critics alike while retaining street culture’s cool factor.

High fashion embraces streetwear

By the mid-2010s, the same high-fashion elite that once kept streetwear at a distance began to see its commercial and cultural potential. Major fashion houses like Burberry and Dior experimented with limited-edition collaborations with streetwear designers, borrowing not just an aesthetic but also distribution tactics like “drops” — a limited, time-sensitive product release by fashion brands.

The luxury streetwear shift came full circle when Gucci collaborated with Dapper Dan and when Louis Vuitton joined forces with Supreme in 2017. These collections sold out in hours and also served to draw in younger consumers initially uninterested by high fashion.

Leading fashion houses started hiring luxury streetwear designers in top creative positions and, in some cases, acquiring established luxury streetwear brands.

This strategy not only refreshed their brand image, but also expanded their appeal to new audiences. It reflected a broader culture shift where luxury is increasingly characterized by authenticity, shared community and pop culture relevance, rather than old-money status signals.

These shifts opened the door for artists and figures from hip-hop and adjacent creative fields to take on prominent roles. Artists Rihanna, Frank Ocean and Kendrick Lamar have fronted high fashion campaigns, and rappers like A$AP Rocky and Travis Scott have walked the runway for high fashion houses and worked on high fashion collections, leading critics to claim that “rappers are fashion’s new royalty.”

Doechii’s watershed moment

The influence of streetwear on luxury was on full display at this year’s Grammys. When Doechii accepted her groundbreaking award — becoming only the third female artist to earn a Grammy for Best Rap Album — she wore another Thom Browne creation: a cropped, short-sleeved grey jacket with a tie, paired with dramatically structured and tiered balloon pants.

Once considered an unlikely pairing, Doechii’s choice of a luxury label famed for its avant-garde suits reflected the dismantling of a boundary long separating high fashion from hip-hop culture.

During her acceptance speech, Doechii addressed tearing down another boundary:

“So many Black women out there that are watching me right now and I want to tell you … Don’t allow anybody to project any stereotypes on you, that tell you that you can’t be here, that you’re too dark or that you’re not smart enough or that you’re too dramatic or you’re too loud. You are exactly who you need to be, to be right where you are, and I am a testimony.”

Her fashion choice and her message ran in parallel: just as her Thom Browne looks reflected a broader cultural shift, one in which a once-marginalized culture has claimed space at the pinnacle of luxury, her words underscored the continued need to break down societal barriers that have sidelined Black women.

Tensions behind the scenes

Despite the celebratory tone surrounding luxury’s embrace of streetwear, deeper tensions persist behind the scenes. The key question is not just about influence but about who wields control and reaps the financial benefits.

Rather than merely adopting streetwear’s aesthetics, high fashion has strategically absorbed it, spotlighting select designers to project an image of inclusivity while ensuring that the status hierarchy remains intact.

This process offers genuine opportunities for a few, but ultimately reinforces existing power dynamics, allowing luxury brands to appear progressive while maintaining their dominance and capturing the value created by the less powerful.

As the fashion industry evolves, it must address issues of cultural appropriation and elite capture to and ensure that the voices behind these influential styles receive due recognition and compensation.

But for consumers on the outside looking in, Doechii’s Grammys moment illustrates a power shift. High fashion, once sealed-off and hierarchical, has become more open, fluid and reflective of diverse backgrounds and artistic visions.

Pierre-Yann Dolbec receives funding from Concordia University, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, and the Fonds de Recherche du Québec.

– ref. Doechii’s Thom Browne look at the Grammys bridged street culture and luxury fashion – https://theconversation.com/doechiis-thom-browne-look-at-the-grammys-bridged-street-culture-and-luxury-fashion-249334

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, Colleagues Introduce Antitrust Legislation To Take On Algorithmic Price Fixing, Bring Down Costs
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

February 07, 2025
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined their Senate colleagues in introducing the Preventing Algorithmic Collusion Act to prevent companies from using algorithms to collude to set higher prices. As recent reporting, a Justice Department lawsuit, and multiple private lawsuits have shown, big corporations are using algorithms to raise prices and limit competition, including companies like RealPage that have facilitated collusion to increase rents by more than $3 billion in 2023 alone. This legislation would make such collusion illegal to lower costs for families and support small businesses.

“These pricing algorithms are just one more tactic corporations use to get around the law and screw regular people. It’s how the poultry industry colludes to keep the price of chicken high,” said Murphy. “If we really care about lowering costs and disrupting the corrupt status quo, this is the kind of bill that Congress should pass.”

“Predatory algorithms significantly suppress competition in today’s markets and allow companies to collude to raise prices to unaffordable levels. The Preventing Algorithmic Collusion Act will eliminate coercive anticompetitive software and empower consumers,” said Blumenthal.

Price fixing and other forms of collusion are illegal under current antitrust laws. However, current antitrust laws may be insufficient when competing companies delegate their pricing decisions to an algorithm without agreeing to fix prices. Current law requires proof of an agreement to fix prices before condemning the conduct. When pricing decisions of multiple competitors are delegated to a single algorithm, that agreement may not exist even though the use of the algorithm may have the same effect as a traditional agreement to fix prices. This type of conduct has already occurred in rental housing, and we must ensure that it does not spread to other sectors of our economy with the proliferation of algorithmic pricing.

To strengthen current price fixing law, this legislation would:

Close a loophole in current law by presuming a price-fixing “agreement,” when direct competitors share non-public information through a pricing algorithm to raise prices;

Increase transparency by requiring companies that use algorithms to set prices to disclose that fact and give antitrust enforcers the ability to audit the pricing algorithm when there are concerns it may be harming consumers;

Ban companies from using non-public, competitively sensitive information from their direct competitors to inform or train a pricing algorithm; and

Direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to study pricing algorithms’ impact on competition.

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) also cosponsored the legislation.

The Preventing Algorithmic Collusion Act is endorsed by Consumer Reports, the Open Markets Institute, and Accountable.US.

Full text of the legislation is available HERE.
MIL OSI USA News –
February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Efficiency − or empire? How Elon Musk’s hostile takeover could end government as we know it

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Allison Stanger, Distinguished Endowed Professor, Middlebury

Elon Musk, right, has moved to take the reins of the U.S. government. Brandon Bell/Getty Images

Elon Musk’s role as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency, also known as DOGE, is on the surface a dramatic effort to overhaul the inefficiencies of federal bureaucracy. But beneath the rhetoric of cost-cutting and regulatory streamlining lies a troubling scenario.

Musk has been appointed what is called a “special government employee” in charge of the White House office formerly known as the U.S. Digital Service, which was renamed the U.S. DOGE Service on the first day of President Donald Trump’s second term. The Musk team’s purported goals are to maximize efficiency and to eliminate waste and redundancy.

That might sound like a bold move toward Silicon Valley-style innovation in governance. However, the deeper motivations driving Musk’s involvement are unlikely to be purely altruistic.

Musk has an enormous corporate empire, ambitions in artificial intelligence, desire for financial power and a long-standing disdain for government oversight. His access to sensitive government systems and ability to restructure agencies, with the opaque decision-making guiding DOGE to date, have positioned Musk to extract unprecedented financial and strategic benefits for both himself and his companies, which include the electric car company Tesla and space transport company SpaceX.

One historical parallel in particular is striking. In 1600, the British East India Company, a merchant shipping firm, began with exclusive rights to conduct trade in the Indian Ocean region before slowly acquiring quasi-governmental powers and ultimately ruling with an iron fist over British colonies in Asia, including most of what is now India. In 1677, the company gained the right to mint currency on behalf of the British crown.

As I explain in my upcoming book “Who Elected Big Tech?” the U.S. is witnessing a similar pattern of a private company taking over government operations.

Yet what took centuries in the colonial era is now unfolding at lightning speed in mere days through digital means. In the 21st century, data access and digital financial systems have replaced physical trading posts and private armies. Communications are the key to power now, rather than brute strength.

A security officer blocks U.S. Sen. Ed Markey, right, from entering the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency headquarters on Feb. 6, 2025, in an effort to meet with DOGE staff.
Al Drago/Getty Images

The data pipeline

Viewing Musk’s moves as a power grab becomes clearer when examining his corporate empire. He controls multiple companies that have federal contracts and are subject to government regulations. SpaceX and Tesla, as well as tunneling firm The Boring Company, the brain science company Neuralink, and artificial intelligence firm xAI all operate in markets where government oversight can make or break fortunes.

In his new role, Musk can oversee – and potentially dismantle – the government agencies that have traditionally constrained his businesses. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has repeatedly investigated Tesla’s Autopilot system; the Securities and Exchange Commission has penalized Musk for market-moving tweets; environmental regulations have constrained SpaceX.

Through DOGE, all these oversight mechanisms could be weakened or eliminated under the guise of efficiency.

But the most catastrophic aspect of Musk’s leadership at DOGE is its unprecedented access to government data. DOGE employees reportedly have digital permission to see data in the U.S. government’s payment system, which includes bank account information, Social Security numbers and income tax documents. Reportedly, they have also seized the ability to alter the system’s software, data, transactions and records.

Multiple media reports indicate that Musk’s staff have already made changes to the programs that process payments for Social Security beneficiaries and government contractors to make it easier to block payments and hide records of payments blocked, made or altered.

But DOGE employees only need to be able to read the data to make copies of Americans’ most sensitive personal information.

A federal court has ordered that not to happen – at least for now. Even so, funneling the data into Grok, Musk’s xAI-created artificial intelligence system, which is already connected with the Musk-owned X, formerly known as Twitter, would create an unparalleled capability for predicting economic shifts, identifying government vulnerabilities and modeling voter behavior.

That’s an enormous and alarming amount of information and power for any one person to have.

Candidate Donald Trump speaks at a key cryptocurrency industry conference in July 2024.
AP Photo/Mark Humphrey

Cryptocurrency coup?

Like Trump himself and many of his closest advisers, Musk is also deeply involved in cryptocurrency. The parallel emergence of Trump’s own cryptocurrency and DOGE’s apparent alignment with the cryptocurrency known as Dogecoin suggests more than coincidence. I believe it points to a coordinated strategy for control of America’s money and economic policy, effectively placing the United States in entirely private hands.

The genius – and danger – of this strategy lies in the fact that each step might appear justified in isolation: modernizing government systems, improving efficiency, updating payment infrastructure. But together, they create the scaffolding for transferring even more financial power to the already wealthy.

Musk’s authoritarian tendencies, evident in his forceful management of X and his assertion that it was illegal to publish the names of people who work for him, suggest how he might wield his new powers. Companies critical of Musk could face unexpected audits; regulatory agencies scrutinizing his businesses could find their budgets slashed; allies could receive privileged access to government contracts.

This isn’t speculation – it’s the logical extension of DOGE’s authority combined with Musk’s demonstrated behavior.

Critics are calling Musk’s actions at DOGE a massive corporate coup. Others are simply calling it a coup. The protest movement is gaining momentum in Washington, D.C., and around the country, but it’s unlikely that street protests alone can stop what Musk is doing.

Who can effectively investigate a group designed to dismantle oversight itself? The administration’s illegal firing of at least a dozen inspectors general before the Musk operation began suggests a deliberate strategy to eliminate government accountability. The Republican-led Congress, closely aligned with Trump, may not want to step in; but even if it did, Musk is moving far faster than Congress ever does.

Destroy the republic, build a startup nation?

Taken together, all of Musk’s and Trump’s moves lay the foundation for what cryptocurrency investor and entrepreneur Balaji Srinivasan calls “the network state.”

The idea is that a virtual nation may form online before establishing any physical presence. Think of the network state like a tech startup company with its own cryptocurrency – instead of declaring independence and fighting for sovereignty, it first builds community and digital systems. By the time a Musk-aligned cryptocurrency gained official status, the underlying structure and relationships would already be in place, making alternatives impractical.

Converting more of the world’s financial system into privately controlled cryptocurrencies would take power away from national governments, which must answer to their own people. Musk has already begun this effort, using his wealth and social media reach to engage in politics not only in the U.S. but also several European countries, including Germany.

A nation governed by a cryptocurrency-based system would no longer be run by the people living in its territory but by those who could could afford to buy the digital currency. In this scenario, I am concerned that Musk, or the Communist Party of China, Russian President Vladimir Putin or AI-surveillance conglomerate Palantir, could render irrelevant Congress’ power over government spending and action. And along the way, it could remove the power to hold presidents accountable from Congress, the judiciary and American citizens.

All of this obviously presents a thicket of conflict-of-interest problems that are wholly unprecedented in scope and scale.

The question facing Americans, therefore, isn’t whether government needs modernization – it’s whether they’re willing to sacrifice democracy in pursuit of Musk’s version of efficiency. When we grant tech leaders direct control over government functions, we’re not just streamlining bureaucracy – we’re fundamentally altering the relationship between private power and public governance. I believe we’re undermining American national security, as well as the power of We, the People.

The most dangerous inefficiency of all may be Americans’ delayed response to this crisis.

Allison Stanger receives funding from the Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society, Harvard University

– ref. Efficiency − or empire? How Elon Musk’s hostile takeover could end government as we know it – https://theconversation.com/efficiency-or-empire-how-elon-musks-hostile-takeover-could-end-government-as-we-know-it-249262

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Pushes Back on Trump’s Plan to Dismantle Education Department

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and her colleagues are pushing back on the Trump Administration’s reported plans to unilaterally dismantle the Department of Education and called out Elon Musk’s access to Americans’ most sensitive data, including at the Department of Education. Baldwin is calling on the acting Secretary of Education for answers on recent actions taken to put federal workers on administrative leave, coerce employees into leaving their jobs, provide access to students’ sensitive data, and illegally freeze vital funding. Wisconsin received approximately $630 million last fiscal year from the Department of Education to directly support school operations, pay teachers, and support students. If the Department of Education were to shutter, it could threaten this year’s funding and risk cuts programs, layoffs for teachers, and less funding for classrooms.
“Over the course of two weeks, the Trump Administration issued sweeping executive orders and sought to broadly and illegally freeze federal financial assistance,” wrote Baldwin and the lawmakers. “Federal employees have been targeted, in some cases for simply following the law. Elon Musk is attempting to shut down the work of entire agencies while gaining access to some of the federal government’s most far reaching and sensitive data systems. Media reports indicate a similar effort may be underway at the Department of Education.”
In their letter, they request information about access to the Department’s sensitive data and steps taken to safeguard it, communications and details regarding Department employees who have been placed on leave and confirmation that no awards have been blocked or terminated.
“We will not stand by and allow this to happen to the nation’s students, parents, borrowers, educators, and communities. Congress created the Department to ensure all students in America have equal access to a high-quality education and that their civil rights are protected no matter their zip code,” continued the lawmakers. “We urge you to provide information on the steps the Department is taking to ensure the continuity of programs that Americans depend on, the ability of the Department to effectively administer programs for their intended purposes without waste, fraud and abuse, and the safeguards in place to protect student data privacy.”
A full version of this letter is available here and below.
Dear Acting Secretary Carter,
We write with serious concerns about actions at the U.S. Department of Education (the Department), in light of the troubling developments across the federal government since January 20, 2025.
Over the course of two weeks, the Trump Administration issued sweeping executive orders and sought to broadly and illegally freeze federal financial assistance. Federal employees have been targeted, in some cases for simply following the law. Elon Musk is attempting to shut down the work of entire agencies while gaining access to some of the federal government’s most far reaching and sensitive data systems.
In just the last few days security officials at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) were put on leave after refusing non-government workers access to sensitive personnel information and classified systems. On Monday morning, USAID staff were told not to report to the agency and more than 600 employees were locked out of their computer systems and put on leave. Media reports indicate a similar effort may be underway at the Department of Education. Media reports are all we can rely on at this point because the Department has not shared any information on its plans with the authorizing Committees of jurisdiction responsible for establishing the Department, its organizational structure and programs; or the Committees on Appropriations responsible for funding it.
The Department has been a target of President Trump and his unelected advisors since even prior to his inauguration. And recently, the Department has put workers on administrative leave for attending trainings promoted by former Secretary Betsy DeVos, once touted among results achieved by the Department, and coerced employees into leaving their jobs.6 Workers at the Department—like those across the government—have been made to fear their jobs will be reclassified so that they lose employment protections. Some staff from the entity referred to as the Department of Government Efficiency have reportedly gained access to internal Department data systems, including financial aid systems that include personally identifiable information on millions of students. These actions appear to be part of a broader plan to dismantle the federal government until it is unable to function and meet the needs of the American people.
We will not stand by and allow the impact that dismantling the Department of Education would have on the nation’s students, parents, borrowers, educators, and communities. Congress created the Department to ensure all students in America have equal access to a high-quality education and that their civil rights are protected no matter their zip code. The Department is in the middle of implementing the FAFSA for the 2025-2026 school year and cannot afford any disruptions to that critical work. The Department also oversees vital federal aid programs that help students from low-income backgrounds, students with disabilities, student veterans, students experiencing homelessness, rural students, educators, and parents in need of childcare across the country. To further these activities, the Department maintains sensitive, personally identifiable information about these students and their families, which must be protected from people bent on ending these critical programs created over decades through bipartisan laws passed by Congress.
We urge you to provide information on the steps the Department is taking to ensure the continuity of programs that Americans depend on, the ability of the Department to effectively administer programs for their intended purposes without waste, fraud and abuse, and the safeguards in place to protect student data privacy. We therefore request the following by Friday February 7th, 2025.
Provide a list of all individuals, including their job titles and offices and whether they are federal government employees, who have been granted access to personally identifiable or sensitive information since January 20, 2025, the training provided to such individuals on the requirements for handling personally identifiable or sensitive information, the specific information to which they have they been granted access and the legal purpose to granting them access to that information, and whether students have been notified that their personally identifiable or sensitive information has been accessed.
Provide an explanation of all steps the Department has taken to protect sensitive, personally identifiable data in the Department’s control, including but not limited to the National Student Loan Data System, the Common Origination and Disbursement System, and the FAFSA Processing System. a. Provide information on how those steps have been communicated to each individual with access to that data.
Provide a list of all individuals placed on administrative leave or terminated from the Department since January 20, 2025, including their job title, duties and responsibilities, office, and the reason for the leave or termination.
Provide all communications to Department employees who have been placed on administrative leave or terminated since January 20, 2025.
Confirm that the Department has not frozen, paused, impeded, blocked, canceled, or terminated any awards or obligations since January 20, 2025 (other than the cancellation of training and service contracts announced in the Department’s January 23, 2025 Press Release).

MIL OSI USA News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Tax Season Underway

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

Q: What should taxpayers keep in mind during tax season?

A: The IRS officially kicked off tax season and started accepting and processing federal individual tax returns for the 2024 tax year. The federal tax-collecting agency this year expects more than 140 million individual tax returns. Don’t procrastinate, the tax filing deadline is April 15.

At kitchen tables across the country, taxpayers will gather necessary documents to file their tax returns, including income information from paycheck stubs, W-2’s and 1099 forms. Whether you file on your own or have tax preparation assistance, be sure to gather all records and receipts, including for expenses required for credits and deductions, such as education and dependent care expenses, clean energy credits, retirement contributions and charitable donations. The IRS anticipates more than half of all tax returns will be filed with the help of a tax professional.

As a former chairman of the tax-writing Senate Finance Committee, I encourage taxpayers to be mindful of scams and schemes. Choose a reputable tax professional to protect your personal and financial information. Keep in mind, even if you use a tax preparer, you are legally responsible for the information provided on the tax return. You can search an online directory of different types of federal tax preparers in your local area. Ask in advance about service fees. Avoid choosing tax preparers who base their fees on a percentage of your tax refund. Any refund should go directly to the taxpayer, not the tax preparer. Take care to double check the routing and bank account number on the completed return for accuracy. The IRS advises taxpayers to take precautions for fraud and liability. Specifically, if a paid preparer does not sign the tax return, either on paper or digitally, that’s a red flag for unscrupulous behavior. More importantly, never sign a blank or incomplete tax return. Anyone paid to prepare a federal tax return must have a Preparer Tax Identification Number. By law, paid preparers must sign and include their tax identification number on any tax return they prepare.

The IRS offers free electronic filing for taxpayers with federal adjusted gross income of $84,000 or less. IRS Free File allows eligible taxpayers to use guided tax preparation software free of charge to file a federal tax return. You can choose from IRS partner tax software companies here. The Free File Alliance is a nonprofit coalition serving 100 million American taxpayers. Taxpayers above that income threshold may use the free fillable forms– electronic federal tax forms – to fill out and file on your own.

Q: What other programs are available in local communities for tax preparation assistance?

A: The IRS coordinates services with local volunteers in communities across the country to help eligible taxpayers prepare their tax returns for free. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs support residents with participating partner organizations. These programs are designed to reach low-to-moderate income individuals, persons with disabilities, elderly and limited English speakers. VITA tax preparation services are available for individuals and families earning $67,000 or less. Find participating organizations in your local area here, https://irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep/. Be sure to bring the required documents to your appointment. If you would like to volunteer in your local community as a tax preparer, greeter, interpreter or computer specialist, learn more at irs.gov/volunteers.

Q: What assistance can your Senate office provide?

A: My Senate office may not help you file taxes. However, my office may help Iowans resolve issues and get answers from the IRS through the Taxpayer Advocate Service. For assistance, Iowans first need to complete a request form to allow my staff to get involved on your behalf with federal agencies. Print and sign the form and return via email at caseworker_grassley@grassley.senate.gov. Or mail to my Des Moines office at 721 Federal Building, 210 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50309.

As a taxpayer watchdog, I keep a tight leash on the IRS to protect sensitive taxpayer information and fight for taxpayer rights. For decades, I’ve led a crusade to secure tax fairness, strengthen taxpayer rights, improve customer service and strengthen our system of voluntary tax compliance. As the co-author of the first-ever Taxpayer Bill of Rights in 1988 and one of four members who served on the National Commission on Restructuring the IRS during the Clinton administration, I’ve kept my nose to the grindstone to strengthen our system of voluntary compliance, as well as strengthen the IRS whistleblower program that’s helped recover more than $6 billion. The best way to narrow the tax gap is to help taxpayers do the right thing and improve taxpayer service. Tax cheats ought to be held accountable; honest taxpayers ought to pay every dime owed, not a penny more.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Kennedy Fight to Protect Veterans’ Second Amendment Rights

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Judiciary Committee member John Kennedy (R-La.) and 15 Republican colleagues in introducing the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. This bill would permanently end onerous reporting requirements that cause veterans who receive help managing their Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits to be stripped of their Second Amendment rights without due process. Rep. Mike Bost (R-Ill.), Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, leads companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“I take the constitutional right to bear arms very seriously. Our bill would preserve due process for veterans and put a stop to unelected bureaucrats unjustifiably stripping away the Second Amendment rights of those who’ve served,” Grassley said.

“Our veterans should not receive less due process rights than other Americans just because they served our country and asked the federal government for a helping hand. Under the VA’s interpretation of the law, however, unelected bureaucrats punish Louisiana and America’s veterans by forcing them to choose between their Second Amendment rights and getting the help they need as they manage their financial affairs. I’m proud to introduce the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act to stand up for veterans’ constitutional rights by ending this unfair practice,” Kennedy said.

The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act is endorsed by the National Rifle Association, the Gun Owners of America, AMAC Action, Vietnam Veterans of America, the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, the Black Veterans Empowerment Council, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Turning Point Action, the Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, the National Disability Rights Network and the National Association for Gun Rights.

Find bill text HERE.

Background:

Under current law, any veteran who appoints a fiduciary to help manage their VA benefits is immediately reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), restricting their Second Amendment right to legally purchase and own a firearm. The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act would end this practice by prohibiting the VA from transmitting veterans’ personal information to NICS unless there is a judicial determination that the individual is a danger to themselves or others.

-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on January Labour Force Survey results

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, has issued the following statement on the release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey for January 2025:

“We’re standing strong and defending British Columbians, workers, and industries against tariff threats from the United States. We are encouraged by the news that there will be a 30-day pause on the tariffs. Now, it’s full steam ahead on strengthening our economy to defend B.C. from this threat.

“We are fast-tracking major economic projects to deliver good paying, family-supporting jobs throughout the entire province and we are working hard to get B.C. goods to new markets, including the ongoing push to knock down trade barriers within Canada. So many people are coming together to buy B.C. and support Canadian products first.

“As B.C.’s minister of jobs, economic development and innovation, I met with my ministerial counterparts on the federal Committee on Internal Trade on Jan. 31 in Toronto to discuss expediting negotiations to reduce barriers to trade across the country. Increasing trade across the country is a key part of B.C.’s tariff-response strategy.

“B.C. has continued to show strength with a gain of 10,300 private-sector jobs in January – the third largest increase among provinces. B.C. has gained 178,900 private-sector jobs since July 2017.

“B.C. has also gained 19,900 full-time jobs since December 2024, the second-highest increase in full-time jobs among provinces.

“B.C.’s unemployment rate is 6.0%, one of the lowest unemployment rates among provinces and below the national average of 6.6%. B.C.’s average hourly wage is $37.53, the highest among provinces.

“Today’s Labour Force Survey data shows a growth of 8,700 jobs in manufacturing, 6,100 in retail trade and 5,200 in construction, among other types of jobs. Construction has gained 24,500 jobs, compared to this time last year.

“The current global uncertainty posed by potential tariffs from the United States puts all of this at risk. That’s why we’re taking action to defend B.C. jobs in the face of this threat. The Committee on Internal Trade meeting last Friday provided an opportunity to boldly move forward to unlock markets and the flow of goods and services between provinces and territories.

“Right now, the provinces have conflicting regulations and rules, causing barriers to trade across the country. B.C. is working with our provincial counterparts to create a list of regulatory requirements in each jurisdiction, with the intention of achieving an agreement where regulations can be mutually recognized that will cover all goods and services sold or used in Canada.

“British Columbia has been a leader in reducing internal trade barriers and is one of the founding parties of the New West Partnership Trade Agreement, a regional trade enhancement agreement that surpasses the Canadian Free Trade Agreement in terms of ambition, coverage of economic sectors and lack of exceptions.”

Learn More:

To learn more about Clean and Competitive: A Blueprint for B.C.’s Industrial Future, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Clean_and_Competitive.pdf

To find out more about the Stronger BC Economic Plan, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/plan/

MIL OSI Canada News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on the Japan – UK Women’s Economic Empowerment Seminar
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Japan hosted a virtual seminar for British women entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners seeking to increase trade and investment with Japan
On 6 February 2025, with the support of the Department for Business and Trade, the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted a virtual seminar for UK women entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners seeking to increase trade and investment with Japan.

This continues an ongoing series of collaborative activities between the UK and Japan to uphold the commitments set out in the Women’s Economic Empowerment chapter of the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). It supports the delivery of the joint commitment to enhancing women’s ability to fully access and benefit from the opportunities created by this Agreement, and to reduce the systemic barriers faced by women seeking to trade internationally.

During the seminar, participants heard from Japanese government and non-government led organisations about programmes and initiatives that support women in trade. These included the Japanese Cabinet Office, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Japan External Trade Organization. They shared valuable information on the Japanese market and the support and tools available to British women entrepreneurs, business owners and investors interested in growing their businesses by expanding, exporting to and investing in the Japanese market.

The audience also heard from the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan on the support it can provide on navigating differences in business customs, as well as from two Japanese venture capital firms: ANRI, focused on seed stage investments, having a track record of supporting female-founded startups in IT and DeepTech, and NEXTBLUE, dedicated to empowering women founders in the field of women’s wellbeing. These venture capital firms offered their support for the expansion of UK female-led companies.

The audience also heard directly from two British women business owners and entrepreneurs. The CEOs of Celtic English Academy and Evolve Organic Beauty shared valuable insights on their experiences of entering and successfully trading in the education and retail markets in Japan.

Increasing women’s participation in the economy not only strengthens gender equality but also holds huge potential in boosting economic growth. Through the effective implementation of the women’s economic empowerment provisions in the UK’s trade agreement with Japan, we seek to uphold gender equality by ensuring that women business owners and entrepreneurs interested in expanding their business by entering new markets have sufficient knowledge of the opportunities and benefits on offer to them.

The UK has successfully included trade and gender equality provisions in newly negotiated Free Trade Agreements including with Japan, Australia and New Zealand, and will continue working with trading partners to explore and develop the best strategies and practices to break down barriers to trade for women, support the fair and open trade and benefit the wider UK economy.

In the lead up to the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, the UK will continue a programme of engagement with Japan. Further, the UK will be showcasing its work on diversity and inclusion at the UK Pavilion, including the work we are doing on gender equality and women’s economic empowerment.

For more information on the first UK-Japan Women’s Economic Empowerment seminar, please follow this link.

For more information on the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership, please follow this link.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Published 7 February 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Shaheen Condemns Trump Actions as Deliberate Effort to Undermine Critical Functions of Government Over Lowering Costs for Granite Staters

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) condemned Trump for undermining critical government functions instead of working to lower costs for Granite Staters like he promised during his campaign. Shaheen pointed to the President’s misguided tariff plan, chaotic effort to halt federal funding for grants and loans, the dismantling of U.S. foreign assistance and his enabling of billionaire Elon Musk to access Americans’ sensitive information at the U.S. Department of Treasury. You can read more here.

The full article from the Union Leader is available here and below.

Shaheen takes aim at Trump’s actions on spending, tariffs

In some of her strongest language to date, U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen said President Donald Trump’s actions on spending, tariffs and shutting down foreign assistance programs appear to be a “deliberate effort to undermine the critical functions” of the federal government.

Shaheen, a three-term senator whose term is up in 2026, said her office is receiving complaint calls at a level only met during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many hold the view that Trump’s actions bear little resemblance to his focus as a presidential candidate, Shaheen said.

“It is creating frustration and concern across the board. This is not what they signed up for,” Shaheen said during an interview. “When Donald Trump was campaigning, he was talking about addressing inflation, lowering costs for people on food, rent and prescriptions. None of that is in his agenda since he got inaugurated.”

For his part, Trump said he told voters that Elon Musk, the world’s wealthiest man, would be a trusted adviser on how to reduce federal spending by up to $2 trillion.

Musk leads the new Department of Government Efficiency, whose employees got access to payroll information of the Department of Treasury and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

“He should not have access to this. They are going into classified spaces without appropriate clearances,” said Shaheen, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, which is dealing with the Department of Agriculture, rural development and Food and Drug Administration.

Shaheen said Musk’s moves to close down USAID will collapse vital assistance to vulnerable people around the world and only invite U.S. adversaries to step in and try to control affairs in struggling countries.

“In fact, there’s evidence that is already beginning to happen,” Shaheen said.

Shaheen noted Musk seeks to reduce the size of a federal government that at one pivotal point rescued him with financial relief.

“The irony is this guy would have been out of business but for the U.S. government bailing him out in Space X,” Shaheen said. “The fact he is trying to deny that kind of access and help to individuals and business that need it is just unacceptable and shameful.”

Earlier Wednesday, Shaheen hosted a conference call with leaders of chambers of commerce and other regional officials who raised concerns about the proposed tariffs with Canada that are on a 30-day pause but have not been rescinded.

“Their number one issue is the uncertainty and the chaos that is happening under this president’s very hand,” Shaheen said.

U.S. Rep. Maggie Goodlander, D-N.H., signed on to a letter to Trump Wednesday, along with 60 House Democrats, calling for him to cancel any Canadian tariff plans.

“These actions, this rhetoric has consequences that people are already seeing in their everyday lives,” Shaheen added.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Daines, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Unleash American Energy, Hold Lease Sales in Gulf

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Steve Daines (R-MT), and 10 Republican colleagues reintroduced the Supporting Made in America Energy Act to make sure the United States maintains and grows its energy independence. It requires the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) to hold four onshore oil and gas lease sales in the top oil and gas producing states, and also requires two annual offshore oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of America and six sales over a ten-year period in Alaska’s Cook Inlet.
“Louisiana fuels the world,” said Dr. Cassidy. “When we unleash American energy, we are supporting our allies, keeping Louisianans employed, and strengthening our economy. This bill will help us do that.”
“Now that we have a President who supports our energy industry instead of pushing a radical environmental agenda, it’s time to get to work on real change to unleash American energy and ensure that we remain dominant on the world stage. These bills will have a huge impact on creating Montana jobs, boosting our economy and protecting our national security, and I’ll work with my colleagues every step of the way to get them over the finish line,” said Senator Daines.
Cassidy and Daines were joined by U.S. Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS), Jim Risch (R-ID), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Mike Crapo (R-ID), John Curtis (R-UT), John Barrasso (R-WY), and John Hoeven (R-ND) in introducing the legislation.
Background
In January, Cassidy led his colleagues in introducing the Offshore Energy Security Act of 2025. The legislation requires the DOI to hold two offshore oil and gas lease sales per year for 10 years.
During the last administration, Cassidy released a landmark energy policy outline in response to President Biden’s assault on domestic energy. The outline details how we can successfully reset U.S. energy policy, including Cassidy’s plan for an Energy Operation Warp Speed to cut permitting red tape and unleash domestic energy and manufacturing.
He also pushed back on disastrous proposals from the Biden administration to limit development in the Outer Continental Shelf by introducing the WHALE Act.
Under the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) and the Louisiana State Constitution, revenues from offshore leasing are dedicated to coastal restoration. 2024 was the first year without an offshore oil and gas lease sale in the Gulf of Mexico since 1965.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Trading volume on the Moscow Exchange’s SFI market increased by 70% in 2024

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

Trading volumes on the Moscow Exchange standardized derivatives market increased by 77% in 2024, from 8.3 trillion to 14.7 trillion rubles.

Today, 85 Russian financial sector companies conclude transactions on the DFI market, of which 20 companies entered the market in 2024. In particular, non-state pension funds and insurance companies received the opportunity to conduct transactions with over-the-counter derivatives with a central counterparty (CCP) last year.

Today on on the Moscow Exchange’s SPF market Interest rate swaps, currency swaps, currency-interest rate swaps, currency forwards with a maturity of three days to 10 years depending on the type of instrument are traded. The instruments of the SPFI market provide the opportunity for the most flexible management of currency and interest rate risks in transactions on the markets of the underlying asset.

Transactions on the SFD market are concluded with the CCP, which allows combining the flexibility of over-the-counter derivatives and the reliability of the Moscow Exchange settlement infrastructure. This also frees financial market participants from the need to assess the risks of each counterparty and sign general agreements with all of them, reduces capital costs and takes advantage of unified clearing and collateral with other Moscow Exchange markets.

Since its launch in 2013, the SFI market has developed in two directions – exchange and over-the-counter. Since 2019, the trading activity of participants has been concentrated exclusively in over-the-counter transactions with a central counterparty. In connection with this, a decision was made to terminate the functioning of the exchange segment of the SFI market., and May 13, 2022 was set as the last trading day on which exchange contracts could be concluded on the SFD market.

Moscow Exchange will continue to develop tools for managing various types of risks. In December 2024, the SFI market was launched new trading and clearing system “SAPFIR”, which combines advanced trading and clearing solutions, as well as technological and methodological services in the field of risk management of the NCC. The peculiarity of the new TCS is the ability to quickly launch new over-the-counter instruments at the request of participants, which allows for an effective response to changes and market needs. Thanks to this opportunity, participants will be able to hedge credit, commodity and other types of risks in the future.

The Moscow Exchange Group operates the only multifunctional exchange platform in Russia for trading shares, bonds, derivatives, currencies, money market instruments and commodities. The Group includes a central depository and a clearing center that acts as a central counterparty in the markets, which allows Moscow Exchange to provide its clients with a full cycle of trading and post-trading services.

Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom

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

Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.MOM/N77485

MIL OSI Russia News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan’s Year Starts Off Strong with the Lowest Unemployment Rate Among Provinces and 9,900 New Jobs

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on February 7, 2025

According to the latest labour force survey numbers from Statistics Canada, Saskatchewan started off 2025 tied for the lowest unemployment rate among provinces at 5.4 per cent, below the national average of 6.6 per cent. The province also added 9,900 new jobs year-over-year for the month of January.

“Saskatchewan continues to regularly have one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation as our economy continues to create more jobs and more opportunities,” Deputy Premier and Immigration and Career Training Minister Jim Reiter said. “Our government is committed to ensuring that Saskatchewan continues to grow and that is why we are focused on growing access to health care and educational spaces while taking action to make life more affordable for Saskatchewan people.”

Year-over-year full-time employment increased by 3,000, an increase of 0.6 per cent. Female employment is up 4,300, an increase of 1.5 per cent, and male employment is up 5,400, an increase of 1.7 per cent.

Major year-over-year job gains were reported for construction, up 6,300 (+16.6 per cent), health care & social assistance, up 5,900 (+6.5 per cent), and agriculture, up 3,500 (+15.3 per cent).

Saskatchewan’s two biggest cities also saw year-over-year growth. Compared to January 2024, Saskatoon’s employment was up 10,400, an increase of 5.4 per cent, and Regina’s employment was up 1,200, an increase of 0.8 per cent.

Saskatchewan also saw strong growth across other economic indicators. The province ranked second in year-over-year retail trade growth with a 5.1 per cent increase from November 2023 to November 2024. Saskatchewan ranked second in the nation for month-over-month growth in building construction investment with an increase of 5.7 per cent. The province also saw an 11.8 per cent increase in year-over-year construction investment from November 2023 to November 2024.

This economic growth is backed by the Government of Saskatchewan’s recently released Building the Workforce for a Growing Economy: The Saskatchewan Labour Market Strategy, a roadmap to build the workforce needed to support Saskatchewan’s strong and growing economy, and Securing the Next Decade of Growth: Saskatchewan’s Investment Attraction Strategy, a plan to increase investment in the province and to furth advancing Saskatchewan’s Growth plan goal of $16 billion in private capital investment annually.

-30-

For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –

February 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Secures Agreement with Oklahoma City Public Schools to Resolve Alleged Discrimination Against U.S. Air Force Reserve Member

Source: US State of North Dakota

The Justice Department announced today that a federal judge in Oklahoma City has approved an agreement with Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) to resolve allegations that OKCPS violated Air Force Reserve Staff Sergeant Michael J. McCullough’s rights under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA). The department’s lawsuit alleged that OKCPS violated USERRA when it failed to renew Mr. McCullough’s employment contract because of his military deployment and then failed to reinstate him on his return.

“When servicemembers answer their nation’s call — leaving home and work to serve and protect us — federal law protects them against employment discrimination and unjust termination,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Kathleen Wolfe of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Veterans must be able to serve their country free from worry about jeopardizing civilian career opportunities.”

“We owe it to our service members to safeguard their employment rights when they are deployed,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “Doing so shields the service member and their families from suffering financial and other hardships extending beyond the term of the deployment. My office will continue to vigorously defend the rights justly earned by military veterans who serve our country.”

According to the complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma, Mr. McCullough was employed as a music teacher at OKCPS’s Fillmore Elementary School in January 2022. He was under contract for the remainder of the school year, and his principal told him that she wanted him to return to teach the following year. In February 2022, Mr. McCullough was ordered to perform military service. When he notified his principal, she suggested it would be easier if he just resigned his teaching position. Less than a month later, during his deployment, OKCPS advised Mr. McCullough that his contract would not be renewed for the 2022-2023 school year. Prior to and on his return from active military duty, OKCPS refused Mr. McCullough’s repeated requests for reemployment, despite available positions.

Under the agreement, OKCPS will pay Mr. McCullough monetary damages, and it will revise its polices, practices, and trainings to prevent violations of USERRA.

USERRA is a federal statute that prohibits employment discrimination based on military status, service, or obligation and protects the rights of uniformed servicemembers to retain their civilian employment following absences due to military service obligations. The Justice Department gives high priority to the enforcement of servicemembers’ rights under USERRA. Additional information about USERRA can be found on the Justice Department’s websites at https://www.justice.gov/crt/laws-we-enforce and www.justice.gov/servicemembers, as well as on the Department of Labor’s website at www.dol.gov/vets/programs/userra.

The Department of Labor referred this matter to the Justice Department following an investigation by its Veterans’ Employment and Training Service.

Senior Trial Attorneys Robert Galbreath and Kathleen Lawrence of the Civil Rights Division’s Employment Litigation Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Fagan for the Western District of Oklahoma are handling this case.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 8, 2025

Category: Economy

Cabinet Approves Continuation and Restructuring of Skill India ProgrammeProgramme to Strengthen Workforce Development & Make skilling the backbone of country’s economic growth

Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary launches Swavalambini, a women entrepreneurship programme, for the Northeast‘Swavalambini’: An initiative to nurture entrepreneurial aspirations of women in Higher Education Institutes

The birth of luxury streetwear

High fashion embraces streetwear

Doechii’s watershed moment

Tensions behind the scenes

The data pipeline

Cryptocurrency coup?

Destroy the republic, build a startup nation?

Share this page

Updates to this page

Cabinet Approves Continuation and Restructuring of Skill India Programme

Programme to Strengthen Workforce Development & Make skilling the backbone of country’s economic growth

Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary launches Swavalambini, a women entrepreneurship programme, for the Northeast

‘Swavalambini’: An initiative to nurture entrepreneurial aspirations of women in Higher Education Institutes