NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from White  House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on President  Biden’s Travel to Germany and  Angola

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. will travel to Germany and Angola, from October 10 to 15. In Germany, President Biden will meet with German leaders to further strengthen the close bond the United States and Germany share as Allies and friends and coordinate on shared priorities. The President will reinforce the U.S. and German commitment to democracy and countering antisemitism and hatred, strengthen the enduring people-to-people ties between our countries, and advance cooperation on economics, trade, and technology.  He will also express his appreciation to Germany for supporting Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression, hosting U.S. service members, and contributing to the security of the United States, Germany, and the entire NATO Alliance. On October 13-15, President Biden will travel to Luanda, Angola, where he will meet with President João Lourenço of Angola to discuss increased collaboration on shared priorities, including bolstering our economic partnerships that keep our companies competitive and protect workers; celebrating a signature project of the G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI), which advances our joint vision for Africa’s first trans-continental open-access rail network that starts in Lobito and ultimately will connect the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian Ocean; strengthening democracy and civic engagement; intensifying action on climate security and the clean energy transition; and enhancing peace and security. The President’s visit to Luanda celebrates the evolution of the U.S.-Angola relationship, underscores the United States’ continued commitment to African partners, and demonstrates how collaborating to solve shared challenges delivers for the people of the United States and across the African continent.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Quigley Announce More Than $300 Million in Federal Funding for Transportation Infrastructure Improvements in Chicago

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    September 20, 2024

    [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Quigley (D-IL-05) today announced $305,467,517 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Mega Program. With this federal funding, the Illinois Department of Transportation will receive $209,877,984 for the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program and $95,589,533 for the I-290/IL171 (1st Avenue) Interchange Project. These projects will aim to reduce traffic delays, increase rail junction safety, and improve mobility throughout Chicago.

    DOT’s Mega Grant Program provides federal funding for large projects of regional significance and is funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that the lawmakers worked to pass.

    “Investing in our transportation infrastructure is about more than just improving our roads, bridges and rail lines, it’s about growing our economy and making getting to work, school and throughout our communities faster, safer and more efficient,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to see this federal funding coming to our state today for two critically important projects Senator Durbin and I have been championing for years and with it improvements in these local communities, and an increase in good-paying jobs in our region and more.”

    “Today’s funding is a major investment in the future of our transportation infrastructure.  Chicagoans will be better connected because of these two infrastructure projects, which will improve the safety and quality of our rail system and roadways,” said Durbin. “Senator Duckworth, members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation, and I have long supported these investments, and I’m glad to see these federal dollars go toward improving safety and alleviating congestion in a region that desperately needs it.”

    “This funding announcement is critical to helping CREATE in their mission to improve rail operations in Chicago for both passengers and freight.  As the Ranking Member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, I have an in-depth understanding of the needs facing our freight, commuter, and intercity passenger rail,” said Quigley. “Luckily, the CREATE Program has stepped up to the task and broken ground on numerous rail improvement projects throughout the region. In May, I visited their Forest Hill Flyover site, where I witnessed firsthand the efficiency and safety improvements CREATE is making. From adjacent neighborhoods to the nation’s supply chain, I know that the benefits of this funding will extend far beyond Chicago’s city limits.”

    The CREATE Program brings together the City of Chicago, the State of Illinois, the U.S. Department of Transportation, Metra, Amtrak, and the nation’s freight railroads in a partnership to eliminate transit bottlenecks, boost the economy, and improve overall safety of the Chicagoland area.

    Today’s announced funding will advance the 75th Street Corridor Improvement Project, a three-mile elevated rail corridor on Chicago’s South Side, which approximately 90 freight trains and 30 Metra commuter trains use daily. The project will reconfigure track segments and signals at Belt Junction, add a third track to the Norfolk Southern line, replace and restore 14 aging bridge and viaduct structures, and implement mobility improvements on surface streets throughout the corridor. Durbin and Duckworth have long championed rail improvements, having helped secure $132 million in federal funding to begin this project in 2018.

    The I-290/IL 171 (1st Avenue) Interchange Project will reconstruct portions of I-290, reconstruct and upgrade the 1st Avenue interchange, and implement signalized interchanges at Van Buren Street and Maybrook Drive. It also will install a supplemental trunk sewer along I-290 and a frontage road sewer along Bataan Drive. This work aims to alleviate congestion and address flooding issues.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Govt blind to risks as science cuts leave Kiwis more vulnerable to natural disasters – PSA

    Source: PSA

    ● GNS Science cuts net 59 jobs
    ● Tally of science roles axed by Govt now over 400
    ● Govt ignores pleas of international science community
    GNS Science today confirmed final decisions that will see a net 59 roles, around 10% of its workforce, cut, including principal and senior scientists, geologists, geophysicists, geochemists, technicians and support staff.
    “The Government is wilfully blind to the damage its attack on science is wreaking on our ability to be prepared for future earthquakes or tsunamis,” said Duane Leo, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “GNS Science is losing some of our best and brightest geohazard scientists, some with decades of experience. Some will likely move abroad to countries like Australia, where science is recognised as a vital contributor to the economy.
    “This should be all about protecting New Zealand long term, not saving money in the short term. It’s just more cold, hard evidence of this government’s failure to grapple with the serious challenges we face as a country.”
    GNS scientists play a crucial role in enhancing our understanding of geohazard threats. Their work contributes to the National Seismic Hazard Model, which is key to assessing risks to public safety and the economy, while strengthening New Zealand’s resilience to seismic events.
    As one experienced GNS scientist put it: “The underpinning research we do supports government and industry to understand and plan for risk. The research improves knowledge of how and where to build resilient infrastructure and helps to reduce the impact of natural hazards on people and property.
    “We’re recognised internationally for our foundational research in earth sciences and punch well above our weight. These changes threaten the progress we’ve made.
    “The loss of expertise is a huge blow for our earth science community. How can we keep attracting young talent when experienced scientists are being let go?”
    The Government’s cuts have shocked the international science community – 85 scientists from seven countries have written an open letter to the Government stating that the cuts risk ‘compromising essential geoscientific expertise and partnerships needed to address geohazards risks, which is critical for a country whose economy and community safety is so vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanoes, and climate change’.
    “It’s extremely embarrassing that respected scientists from around the world can see the huge value GNS scientists provide to our country, but the Government can’t,” said Duane Leo.
    “Yet again it proves that these cuts are more about saving money than harnessing the long-term benefits of science and research. The Government would rather give a handout to landlords and big tobacco than a hand up to our scientists. It’s shameful.”
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Old National Team Members Volunteer a Record 7,600 Hours to 196 Organizations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EVANSVILLE, Ind., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Old National Bancorp (“Old National”) set records for team member volunteer participation, hours, and organizations served during its 3rd annual Better Together Days, a two-day volunteer blitz held on Sept. 18-19, 2024, across nine states served by Old National banking centers.

    The two days, where Old National team members signed-up for four-hour volunteer shifts, provided team members across Old National’s Midwest and Southeast footprint with a chance to give back to the communities where they live and work. Virtual volunteer opportunities were also made available. Volunteers served almost 200 nonprofit and other organizations in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.

    In every market that Old National serves, team members were encouraged to sign up for a volunteer shift during the two-day blitz. There were also virtual volunteer opportunities.

    Better Together Days 2024 by the numbers:

    • 2,433 Old National team members participating
    • 7,600 hours volunteering
    • 196 organizations served
    • 9 states hosting volunteer opportunities

    “As a community bank, our annual Better Together Days really keeps us grounded in terms of our mission,” said Kathy Schoettlin, Chief Brand & Culture Officer. “We’re also proud of our team members for making service a vital part of our organizational culture and serving almost 200 nonprofits and organizations throughout the Midwest and Southeast.”

    For high-resolution photos or video inquiries please email rick.vach@oldnational.com.

    ABOUT OLD NATIONAL
    Old National Bancorp (NASDAQ: ONB) is the holding company of Old National Bank. As the sixth largest commercial bank headquartered in the Midwest, Old National proudly serves clients primarily in the Midwest and Southeast. With approximately $53 billion of assets and $30 billion of assets under management, Old National ranks among the top 30 banking companies headquartered in the United States. Tracing our roots to 1834, Old National focuses on building long-term, highly valued partnerships with clients while also strengthening and supporting the communities we serve. In addition to providing extensive services in consumer and commercial banking, Old National offers comprehensive wealth management and capital markets services. For more information and financial data, please visit Investor Relations at oldnational.com. In 2024, Points of Light named Old National one of “The Civic 50” — an honor reserved for the 50 most community-minded companies in the United States.

    Investor Relations:
    Lynell Durchholz
    (812) 464-1366
    lynell.durchholz@oldnational.com

    Media Relations:
    Rick Vach
    (904) 535-9489
    rick.vach@oldnational.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b3e13e50-6fa5-42a2-8ff7-6e772f208548

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Valhalla Partners with Alliance as Official Esports Partner, Expanding Web3 Gaming Horizons

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Floki is proud to announce that Valhalla, an innovative Web3 play-to-earn game, is in a groundbreaking partnership with Alliance, a leading global esports organization. 

    The partnership with Alliance allows Valhalla to tap into the vast esports audience, introducing gamers to the benefits of Web3 while combining exciting gameplay with digital asset ownership.

    Valhalla is an MMORPG that combines open-world exploration with strategic turn-based combat. Players can earn rewards through gameplay and unlock in-game advantages through their skills and strategies.

    “We’re thrilled to join forces with Alliance,” said Mr. Brown Whale, Valhalla’s lead and core advisor. “This partnership is more than just about gaming—it’s about unlocking new ways for players to compete, earn, and engage in the digital economy. Together, we’re redefining what’s possible in competitive gaming.”

    Through this partnership, Valhalla will be featured prominently across Alliance’s digital platforms, live streams, and team jerseys. Fans can look forward to exclusive events, interactive content, and the opportunity to explore the exciting world of Web3 gaming through Valhalla’s strategic gameplay.

    “We’re thrilled to welcome Valhalla into the Alliance family. Their innovative approach to Web3 gaming and blockchain technology offers a new frontier for gamers and fans alike,” said Jonathan “Loda” Berg, CEO and co-founder of Alliance. “We believe this partnership will open up exciting opportunities for our Alliance family to engage, work together, compete and earn rewards.”

    Valhalla’s strategic gameplay allows players to earn rewards based on their in-game achievements, bridging the gap between gaming and digital economies. This partnership paves the way for more gamers to experience the benefits of blockchain while engaging with a vibrant and rewarding gaming ecosystem.

    About Floki

    Floki is the people’s cryptocurrency and utility token of the Floki Ecosystem. Floki aims to become the world’s most known and used cryptocurrency, focusing on utility, philanthropy, community, and marketing. Floki currently has over 490,000 holders and a strong brand recognized globally thanks to strategic marketing partnerships. Learn more at floki.com

    About Valhalla

    Valhalla is a blockchain-based MMORPG inspired by Norse mythology. Players discover, tame, and battle with creatures called Veras, competing in a player-driven economy on a hexagonal battlefield. Learn more at Valhalla.game.

    About Alliance

    Founded in 2013, Alliance is a world-renowned esports organization known for its championship teams and top players. With 57 championship trophies and over 150 tournament wins across 18 esports titles, Alliance continues to lead in the global gaming industry. Learn more at thealliance.gg.

    Contact

    Community Relations Officer
    Pedro Vidal
    Floki
    marketing@fkoki.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Freight Payments Platform Outgo Announces Milestones in Factoring Speeds, $15M from Top VCs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Outgo, the financial hub for freight carriers, today announced several milestones in its mission to fix freight payments for carriers, as well as a previously undisclosed equity fundraise. Outgo’s mission is to increase transparency and eliminate exorbitant rates, hidden fees, and long contracts with the most flexible and intelligent financial products in freight. To power this mission, Outgo revealed a previously undisclosed $15M fundraise from top venture capital investors. The company has deployed this investment to upend the freight payments experience, starting with factoring. Today, Outgo is announcing it is now the industry leader in funding speeds for carriers.

    Founded in 2021, Outgo today announced $15M in previously undisclosed funding led by Gradient Ventures, Construct Capital, with participation from Neo, PSL Ventures, Bezos Expeditions, Fintech Fund, Operator Stack and Upper90. Additionally, the company has secured a $50M credit facility raised from Upper90 for receivables purchasing.

    With this funding in hand, Outgo is rebuilding the entire factoring process and carrier experience with automation and technology at the forefront. This approach stands apart in an industry plagued by slow funding speeds, high fees and a general lack of transparency. Carriers typically wait 30 days or longer to receive payment and legacy factoring companies have not made meaningful improvements in funding speeds. However, Outgo today announced its commitment to four-hour funding speeds for carriers, but also that it over-delivers by approving 50% of invoices within 90 minutes, and 25% within 15 minutes. On top of that, funding is available to carriers 24/7, with no delays for banking holidays or transfer cutoffs.

    “The very purpose of factoring is to get carriers paid faster, but the industry has failed to innovate on speed, flexibility, and customer experience,” said Marcus Womack, Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Outgo. “We have made it our first priority to bring flexibility and control to each and every corner of factoring experience, and to do so with the explicit purpose of accelerating fundings, and lowering carrier cost. We are thrilled to have the support of customers and investors who share our passion for improving carrier financial health.”

    The severe down-cycle in freight has decreased per-mile rates for carriers, and increased competition for work. At the same time, the elevated interest rate environment has led to higher factoring rates. However, Outgo’s dedicated focus on automation has allowed it to continue to offer 1% factoring options to carriers of all sizes, while also bucking the trend of predatory factoring practices by offering publicly posted pricing and low fees.

    “The Outgo team is truly dedicated to improving the lives and businesses that move freight in America,” said Zach Bratun-Glennon, Partner at Gradient Ventures. “The team has technology and fintech expertise to move freight financing into the future, as well as a highly customer-centric perspective from years of leadership at the world’s top logistics and freight companies.”

    “I rely on Outgo to get my funds fast, and at rates I just couldn’t get anywhere else,” said Vildana Hodzic of H&V Transport. “The fact that I can access funds within 15 minutes of completing a delivery feels like magic. Outgo is technically my factoring company, but it feels like something else entirely.”        

    Outgo’s vision is to revolutionize the freight payments experience for carriers, and it continues to rapidly build and launch financial products to help carriers grow their business and succeed.

    ABOUT OUTGO
    Outgo is a modern payments platform for freight. Outgo has rebuilt factoring to put the carrier first, and bundles banking and factoring to make funds instantly available. Founded by former executives at top transportation companies including Uber and Convoy, the company was launched in 2022 and is headquartered in Seattle. To learn more, visit https://www.outgo.com.

    Outgo Inc is a financial technology company, and is not a bank. Banking services provided by TransPecos Banks, SSB and Blue Ridge Bank, N.A., Members FDIC.

    The Outgo Business Visa Debit Card is issued by TransPecos Bank, SSB and Blue Ridge Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from VISA U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa is accepted.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Marshall, Brown, and Reps. Mann, Kaptur Lead Bipartisan Legislation Fighting For Farmers with Biofuel Tax Credit

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. introduced the bicameral and bipartisan Farmer First Fuel Incentives Act requiring the Treasury Department to restrict the eligibility of the 45Z Tax Credit to renewable fuels made only from domestically sourced feedstocks and extending the tax credit to make it a full ten-year credit.  This bill is co-led with Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) with companion legislation introduced by Representatives Mann (R-KS-01) and Kaptur (D-OH-09) in the House of Representatives. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Tina Smith (D-MN) also cosponsored the legislation. 
    The 10-year credit will give the ethanol industry the time and financial incentive to build up the infrastructure needed for the U.S. to be less reliant on foreign fuel, open new markets for farmers, and increase ethanol production across the Midwest. However, we recently learned that 45Z has a glaring flaw that needs to be fixed for farmers wanting to sell feedstocks to the biodiesel and renewable diesel industry. If 45Z goes into effect as is, taxpayers will be massively subsidizing Chinese used cooking oil and would all but eliminate the use of homegrown soy or corn oil in renewable diesel.
    “It’s very tough in farm country with high interest rates and low commodity prices, which is exactly why we can’t have a tax policy that will lower commodity prices even more. While we support free trade and open markets, we do not believe foreign feedstocks should be incentivized through the hard-earned dollars of U.S. taxpayers to the detriment of American farmers,” said Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS). “This legislation puts farmers FIRST to ensure they are the primary beneficiaries of renewable fuel tax incentives and provides businesses a decade of certainty.”
    “American tax dollars should support American farmers – not imported feedstocks. To continue to grow the biofuels industry and open new markets for Ohio farmers, we must stop taxpayer money from subsidizing a surge in Chinese cooking oil or any other foreign feedstock from infiltrating the American market. Our bipartisan bill ensures these investments benefit Ohio farmers and Ohio energy producers.” Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) said.
    “In no world should American tax incentives benefit foreign producers,” said Congressman Tracey Mann (R-KS-01). “While the use of foreign feedstocks can play an important role in producing domestically manufactured ethanol, biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel, we must not displace harvest in America. Our legislation puts American farmers first by ensuring that American tax credits are incentivizing American-grown products.”
    “I joined my colleagues in this important bicameral and bipartisan effort because helping American farmers, producers, and growers goes beyond state and party lines,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture.” We must ensure the Clean Fuel Production tax credit is structured in a way that benefits domestic producers and not one that advantages foreign-produced feedstocks from China or Brazil. Our legislation will extend this credit through 2034 and bolster American energy independence by prioritizing American producers and the production of domestic biofuels.”
    “U.S. soybean farmers have been at the forefront of our domestic clean-energy production through the booming biodiesel and renewable diesel industry over the last decade. The Farmer First Fuel Incentives Act ensures our Kansas soybean growers maintain access to this vital market sector going forward and strengthens the clean fuel production credit for the future,” Kaleb Little, Kansas Soybean Association CEO, said. 
    “We appreciate the efforts of Senator Marshall and his colleagues on this bill to ensure imported feedstocks do not receive tax credits funded by American taxpayers in the 45Z program for Sustainable Aviation Fuel. Companies have a right to import feedstocks from foreign countries, but those foreign producers should not receive tax credits funded by U.S. taxpayers,” said Kansas Corn Growers Association CEO Josh Roe.
    “Ensuring American farmers reach maximum profitability and build resiliency to pass down their farms to the next generation should be our top priority,” said Adam York, Kansas Sorghum Producers CEO. “This legislation helps make sure the intended benefits of this program arrive into our rural economies.”
    “NOPA commends this bipartisan, bicameral legislative effort which puts U.S fuel producers, U.S. crushers and U.S. farmers first. We thank Senators Brown and Marshall and Representatives Mann and Kaptur for their leadership,” said NOPA President and CEO Kailee Tkacz Buller. “We support free trade and open markets but do not believe foreign feedstocks should benefit on the backs of U.S. taxpayers to the detriment of U.S. farmers. Without this fix, the 45Z credit will incentivize the use of foreign feedstocks over those grown by U.S. farmers. Our industry has made significant investments to expand U.S. crush capacity by 30 percent and this fix is pivotal to ensuring these investments are delivered.”
    “Corn growers are making every effort to help the airline industry lower its greenhouse gas emissions through the use of corn ethanol,” said Minnesota farmer and NCGA president Harold Wolle. “We are deeply appreciative of these leaders for introducing legislation that establishes requirements for the tax credit that will level the playing field for America’s corn growers.”
    “Biofuel production paves a key path for our country to be a clean energy leader, and U.S. farmers who grow the crops going into those biofuels take pride in helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting the U.S. economy and energy independence,” said ASA President Josh Gackle, a North Dakota soybean farmer. “However, for continued growth of America’s promising biofuels industry, U.S. farmers need the support of a final 45Z rule that prioritizes domestically sourced feedstock.”
    “The Farmer First Fuel Incentive Act recognizes the vital role of American agriculture in 45Z. This legislation ensures that the guidance is designed and implemented in a farmer-focused manner, supporting domestic clean energy production and stimulating economic growth across rural America,” Craig Meeker, Chairman of National Sorghum Producers, said.
    “This important bill sends a strong signal that extending the 45Z credit is going to be a top, bipartisan priority in this Congress and the next,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We applaud Senators Brown, Marshall, and all our rural champions for working to give biofuel producers and our farm partners the long-term certainty we need to accelerate innovation in America’s bioeconomy. With a longer runway from Congress, and clear, flexible, and timely guidance from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, we’ll have the pieces in place to unlock billions of dollars in new clean energy investments across rural America,” Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, said.
    Background:
    Prior to introducing this legislation, Senator Roger Marshall also led a bipartisan letter calling for the U.S. Treasury Department to restrict the eligibility of the 45Z Tax Credit to renewable fuels made only from domestically-sourced feedstocks, like Kansas soybean oil and corn oil. You may click HERE to read Senator Marshall’s full letter. 
    Representatives Mann and Kaptur led a similar letter in the House.
    A similar letter calling for 45z to be restricted to domestic feedstocks was sent by the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, National Corn Growers Association, and National Farmers Union to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and U.S. Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Sues Visa for Monopolizing Debit Markets

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    The Justice Department filed a civil antitrust lawsuit today against Visa for monopolization and other unlawful conduct in debit network markets in violation of Sections 1 and 2 of the Sherman Act.

    Filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, the complaint alleges that Visa illegally maintains a monopoly over debit network markets by using its dominance to thwart the growth of its existing competitors and prevent others from developing new and innovative alternatives.

    According to the complaint, more than 60% of debit transactions in the United States run on Visa’s debit network, allowing it to charge over $7 billion in fees each year for processing those transactions. The complaint further alleges that Visa illegally maintains its monopoly power by insulating itself from competition. For example, Visa wields its dominance, enormous scale, and centrality to the debit ecosystem to impose a web of exclusionary agreements on merchants and banks. These agreements penalize Visa’s customers who route transactions to a different debit network or alternative payment system. In so doing, the complaint alleges, Visa locks up debit volume, insulates itself from competition, and smothers smaller, lower-priced competitors. Visa also induces would-be competitors to become partners instead of entering the market as competitors by offering generous monetary incentives and threatening punitive additional fees. As the complaint alleges, Visa coopted the competition because it feared losing share, revenues, or being displaced by another debit network altogether.

    “We allege that Visa has unlawfully amassed the power to extract fees that far exceed what it could charge in a competitive market,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Merchants and banks pass along those costs to consumers, either by raising prices or reducing quality or service.  As a result, Visa’s unlawful conduct affects not just the price of one thing – but the price of nearly everything.”

    Debit transactions are an important and popular part of the U.S. financial system. Millions of Americans prefer or must use debit for online and in-person purchases. Visa dominates debit network markets that facilitate these transactions, charging significant fees and stifling competition in the process. Visa’s systematic efforts to limit competition for debit transactions have resulted in billions of dollars in additional fees imposed on American consumers and businesses and slowed innovation in the debit payments ecosystem. Through this lawsuit, the Justice Department seeks to restore competition to this vital market on behalf of the American public.

    “Anticompetitive conduct by corporations like Visa leaves the American people and our entire economy worse off,” said Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “Today’s action against Visa reminds those who would stifle competition rather than competing on price or investing in innovation that the Justice Department will never hesitate to enforce the law on behalf of the American people.”

    “Visa fears competition and innovation, and instead chooses unlawful cooperation and monopolization,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Doha Mekki of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Visa abuses its power over its customers and buys off would-be rivals at the expense of American consumers, merchants, banks, and the competitive process itself. Today’s lawsuit holds Visa accountable for its conduct in a market that forms the backbone of American commerce.”

    Visa maintains enormous scale on both sides of the debit market — with merchants and their banks and with consumers and their banks — and the complaint alleges that Visa’s exclusionary practices extend, deepen, and protect what it refers to as an “enormous moat” around its business. When faced with the possibility that smaller debit networks or new technology entrants would threaten that position, Visa engaged in a deliberate and reinforcing course of conduct to cut off competition and prevent rivals from gaining the scale, share, and data necessary to compete for customers’ business:

    • Smaller Debit Networks: Visa uses leverage based on the large number of transactions that must run over Visa’s payment rails to impose expansive volume commitments on merchants and their banks, as well as on financial institutions that issue debit cards. These agreements are priced so that, unless all or nearly all debit volume runs over Visa’s payment rails, large disloyalty penalties can be imposed on all Visa transactions. Merchants cannot afford to use Visa’s smaller competitors for transactions where options do exist, even when those competitors offer lower per-transaction prices.
    • Tech Entrants: As Visa’s internal documents make clear, Visa feared that some technology companies and fintech startups with “network ambitions” would cut Visa out as the middleman between merchants, consumers, and their banks by offering a better or cheaper payment product. Visa aimed to stop that development by entering into agreements to pay potential competitors to partner instead of innovating. As Visa’s then-CFO put it: “Everybody is a friend and partner. Nobody is a competitor.”

    In 2020, the Justice Department filed a civil antitrust lawsuit to stop Visa from acquiring Plaid, a technology company that powers fintech apps developing disruptive options for online debit payments. The companies abandoned their planned $5.3 billion merger.

    Visa Inc. is a Delaware corporation headquartered in San Francisco. Visa has a global operating income of $18.8 billion and an operating margin of 64% in 2022. North America is among Visa’s most profitable regions with 2022 operating margins of 83%. Visa charges roughly $8 billion in network fees on U.S. debit volume annually. Globally, Visa processes $12.3 trillion in total payment volume.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister LeBlanc launches Canada Community Security Program to protect communities from hate-motivated crimes

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Everyone who lives in Canada deserves to be and feel safe in their communities. These last few years, we’ve witnessed an unacceptable rise in hate incidents experienced by many communities, but especially the most vulnerable. In response, the federal government is sharpening security programs tailored to their needs to keep them safe.

    September 24, 2024

    Ottawa, ON

    Everyone who lives in Canada deserves to be and feel safe in their communities. These last few years, we’ve witnessed an unacceptable rise in hate incidents experienced by many communities, but especially the most vulnerable. In response, the federal government is sharpening security programs tailored to their needs to keep them safe.

    Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, launched the new Canada Community Security Program (CCSP), and announced that the program will be ready to receive funding applications from eligible organizations as of October 1, 2024.

    The CCSP replaces and enhances the Security Infrastructure Program (SIP) to support communities by investing in security measures that will help keep them safe. Eligible measures include security equipment and hardware, minor renovations to enhance security, security and emergency assessments and plans, training to respond to hate-motivated events, and time-limited security personnel.

    The federal government has listened to organizations and partners and has designed the CCSP to be more responsive to community needs and provide more flexibility to organizations seeking financial support. Under the CCSP:

    • Eligibility for funding has expanded to include office and administrative spaces, cemeteries, and child care centres.
    • Up to 70% of a project’s eligible costs may be covered, an increase from 50% of the cost under the SIP.
    • Funding for time-limited third-party licensed security personnel is now a permanent feature of the program.
    • The maximum level – or stacking limit – of total government assistance (across federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal sources) has been removed, which opens up more opportunities for organizations to apply for other sources of funding.
    • Application requirements have been changed to reduce administrative barriers.
    • Organizations can apply for funding at any time throughout the year through a continuous intake application process.
    • Organizations may apply for funding and deliver projects on behalf of affiliated eligible recipients.

    Taken together, these measures will make it easier for organizations to fund their projects and protect their community gathering spaces. 

    “Everyone who lives in Canada deserves to be safe in their communities. The changes we’re bringing forward through the new Canada Community Security Program are informed by what we’ve heard from organizations that have experience in dealing with its predecessor, the Security Infrastructure Program. It is now a more flexible, more generous, and simpler program that will make it easier for vulnerable communities to protect themselves from hate-motivated crimes.”

    – The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs

    • Hate crimes are believed to be one of the most underreported offences. Research suggests that only about one third of hate crime victims in Canada report these crimes to the police. 

    • Additional funding for the Canada Community Security Program was announced in Budget 2023 and Budget 2024.

      • $16 million in 2024-25,
      • $16 million in 2025-26,
      • $11 million in 2026-27,
      • $11 million in 2027-28, and
      • $11 million in 2028-29 and ongoing.

    • The CCSP is one of four programs under the National Crime Prevention Strategy, which supports local, targeted crime prevention initiatives and the development and sharing of knowledge to prevent and reduce crime among at-risk populations and vulnerable communities. The other programs include the Crime Prevention Action Fund, the Youth Gang Prevention Fund, and the Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund.

    • The Security Infrastructure Program (SIP) was originally established in 2007 to support communities at risk of hate-motivated crime through the enhancement of their security infrastructure. This important work will now continue through the CCSP.

    • In total, the Government of Canada has invested over $30 million in funding through the SIP and the Expanded Security Infrastructure Program (ESIP) to over 770 projects to help Canadian communities at risk of hate-motivated crimes protect and strengthen the security of their community centres, places of worship and other institutions.

    • Organizations that currently have an application under SIP will be contacted by Public Safety to discuss the status of the application and their option to continue under the CCSP.

    • To better support communities in need, costs for time-limited security personnel may be eligible for reimbursement as of September 24, 2024 and once the project is approved. 

    •  Organizations interested in staying informed about the upcoming CCSP Call for Applications are encouraged to subscribe to the National Crime Prevention Strategy mailing list.

    • Following the National Summit on Antisemitism and the National Summit on Islamophobia, the Government of Canada committed to exploring adjustments to  SIP. The CCSP will enhance effectiveness and allow the Government of Canada to be more responsive to the security needs of communities.  

    • Budget 2024 provides $273.6 million over six years starting in 2024-25, with $29.3 million ongoing, for Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate. The forthcoming Action Plan will support community outreach and law enforcement reform, tackle the rise in hate crimes and hate incidents, enhance community security, counter radicalization, and increase support for victims. Budget 2024’s additional funding for the Canada Community Security Program is part of the Budget 2024 investment for this first ever whole-of-federal government Action Plan to prevent and address hate. 

    Gabriel Brunet
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc
    Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs
    819-665-6527
    gabriel.brunet@iga-aig.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 4400 candidates get job offer letters at Bijnor Kaushal Mahotsav; Jayant Chaudhary felicitates young achievers

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 10:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Bijnor, September 24, 2024: The Bijnor Kaushal Mahotsav concluded successfully today under the leadership of Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Minister of State, Ministry of Education, Govt of India in Bijnor, reinforcing the government’s commitment to empowering local youth through skill development.

    During a month-long job readiness program, more than 13,500 youth from Bijnor district registered on Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH). Out of these, 3500 candidates were selected and offered jobs after 5 day of rigorous training and career counselling. Today, 6000 youngsters participated in the Kaushal Mahotsav and close to 900 on the spot job offers were distributed.

    The outreach efforts successfully engaged employers from Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring regions, ensuring a diverse array of opportunities for local job seekers. Approximately 4,800 candidates underwent training over four weeks, with significant demand noted across various educational backgrounds.

     

     

    The mega recruitment drive saw major names from industry queueing up to recruit the youth of Bijnor and adjoining areas. Drawn from across a vast swathe of industry ranging from tourism and hospitality, logistics, food processing, IT-ITES, automotive, BFSI and electronics, corporates such as Burger King, Zepto, Quess Corp, Flipkart, Jubilant Foods, Barbeque Nation, Vision India and Yuva Shakti Foundation were among the corporates at the event today.

    The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), under the aegis of MSDE, initiated the ‘Kaushal Mahotsav: Job Readiness Program’ earlier this year to enhance job readiness among Bijnor’s youth. The program aims to establish Bijnor as a central hub for skilled workforce development, capitalizing on the district’s educational institutions that produce a consistent flow of qualified candidates.

    In his address, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Minister of State, Ministry of Education, Govt of India emphasized the critical role of skill development in fostering economic growth and said, “Our government is unwavering in its commitment to equip every young person in Bijnor with the skills essential for success in a competitive economy. Initiatives like Kaushal Mahotsav not only create job opportunities but also bring new industries to your doorstep. I am confident that the youth of Bijnor will once again showcase their remarkable talents and seize every opportunity that arises. It is crucial for them to fully leverage the schemes and benefits offered by the government. With their immense potential and renowned work ethic, the youth of Bijnor are poised to shape a prosperous future.”

    He further added, “Our efforts for every young student will continue and to support that initiative, we have introduced Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) for connecting the youth around the country with the best of Indian industry. An initiative like this will open doors for the youth in Bijnor across a wide spectrum of industry. Our Government has tailor-made schemes for them and it is important that they fully leverage these. With their immense potential and renowned work ethic, the youth of Bijnor are well poised to shape a prosperous future.”

    His remarks underscored the government’s dedication to creating employment opportunities that align with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for a skilled India.

    During his address, Shri Kapil Dev Aggarwal, Hon’ble Minister of Skill Development and Vocational Education, Government of Uttar Pradesh said, “As part of the Skill India Mission, the government is committed to empowering the youth of regions like Bijnor, which are emerging economic hubs, with the skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive environment. I encourage all young people from Bijnor and the adjoining regions to participate in various training programs and initiatives run by the union government in line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of skilling India’s youth.”

    The event was graced by notable attendees including Shri Chandan Chauhan, Hon’ble MP, Bijnor, Shri Chandrashekhar, Hon’ble MP, Nagina, Shri Shail Malge Joint Secretary, MSDE, Prabhat Kumar, Advisor to Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, Colonel Mahendra Singh Payaal, Chief Program Officer (CPO), NSDC.

     

     

    The Kaushal Mahotsav featured a comprehensive 5-day, 40-hour intensive employability training program, which included training on essential soft skills and domain-specific skills for various roles such as Assembly Line Operator and Customer Care Executive. Over 30 companies participated in this recruitment drive from various sectors including electronics, automotive, logistics, banking, IT, and tourism with salaries ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹35,000.

    This initiative not only represents a substantial opportunity for Bijnor’s youth but also aims to stimulate local economic development by connecting skilled individuals with potential employers. The Kaushal Mahotsav stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government bodies and industry leaders in shaping a skilled workforce ready to meet future challenges.

     

     

    As a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), the Kaushal Mahotsav represents a significant step towards enhancing employment prospects for youth on a large scale, with a commitment to speed and high standards in achieving the vision of a ‘Skilled India’.

    About National Skill Development Corporation

    National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) is the principal architect of the skill ecosystem in the country. It is a unique Public Private Partnership (PPP) enterprise working under the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India. NSDC was established to catalyse the skilling ecosystem for private sector participation and be the strategic implementation and knowledge partner to Skill India Mission to build efficient vocational training initiatives, empowering India’s youth. NSDC provides support to enterprises, start-ups, companies, and organizations that are creating an impact by offering a world of opportunities in futuristic skills to the potential workforce. The organization develops appropriate models to enhance, support, and coordinate private sector initiatives in skilling by offering funding support to eligible entities, concessional loans to the candidates along with other innovative financial products and building strategic partnerships.

    *****

    MG/SB/DP

    (Release ID: 2058415) Visitor Counter : 29

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Centre for Good Governances Commences the 6th Training Programme on Public Policy and Governance for Civil Servants of The Kingdom of Cambodia

    Source: Government of India

    National Centre for Good Governances Commences the 6th Training Programme on Public Policy and Governance for Civil Servants of The Kingdom of Cambodia

    39 Senior and Mid-Level Civil Servants from Ministry of Economy and Finance And Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovations are Attending the Programme

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 8:34PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) commenced the 6th Training Programme on Public Policy and Governance for the civil servants of Cambodia today in Mussoorie. The 2-week program is being organized from September 23rd to October 4th, 2024 in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and is hosting 39 senior and mid-level civil servants from Cambodia, representing the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovations. The program offers a platform for policy dialogue and sharing best practices, helping participants gain valuable insights into institutional transformation and citizen engagement.

    The inaugural session was chaired by Shri V. Srinivas, Director General, NCGG & Secretary, Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), Government of India. In his Inaugural address, he emphasized on the importance of longstanding collaboration between India and Cambodia, particularly in area of capacity building. He stressed on importance of finance and technology, which serves as the backbone of governance and is key to drive reforms aimed at national development. Highlighting the impact of transformative initiatives like Aadhaar, which have revolutionized subsidy transfer, he reflected on India’s vision for inclusive governance and the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for prioritizing governance reforms, which focus on digital transformation for better service delivery so as to bring citizens closer to government. He outlined that the goal is to create digitally empowered citizens and technologically transformed institutions. He elaborated that as India works toward India@2047 with focus on being a developed nation, the focus will continue on implementation of priority sector programmes in health, skilling, education, taxes and employment which will be central to achieving good governance.

     

    Speaking about various training programs at the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG), Shri V. Srinivas highlighted the Centre’s increasing global engagement. “This year, NCGG has welcomed delegations from numerous countries and has initiated several first-time programs, including capacity-building initiatives for nations under the FIPIC (Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation), IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association), and Latin American regions. Additionally, we are planning to organize specialized capacity-building programs for BIMSTEC and ASEAN countries, further expanding our international outreach.”

    Mr. Ith Hunly, Deputy Director, Ministry of Science and Technology Innovations, and Head of Cambodia’s delegation, expressed gratitude to the Indian government for organizing a comprehensive program. He acknowledged how the learning’s from the sessions would help participants implement good governance practices in Cambodia.

    Dr. B S Bisht, Associate Professor, NCGG and Course Coordinator of the programme gave detailed information about National Centre for Good Governance and the milestones achieved by the NCGG over the years. In the elaborate presentation he discussed about objectives, activities, achievements and future plans of NCGG and how it has evolved as a Centre for Excellence. It was briefed that NCGG has trained civil servants from 33 countries including Bangladesh, Maldives, Kenya, Tanzania, Tunisia, Seychelles, Gambia, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Laos, Vietnam, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, South Africa, Indonesia, Madagascar, Fiji, Mozambique, Cambodia, Madagascar, Fiji, Indonesia, South Africa among others.

     

    The program is being coordinated by Dr. B.S. Bisht, Course Coordinator along with Dr. Sanjeev Sharma, Co-Course Coordinator, Shri Brijesh Bisht, Training Assistant and Ms. Monisha Bahuguna, YP along with the NCGG’s capacity-building team.

     

    *****
     

    AG

    (Release ID: 2058387) Visitor Counter : 57

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel delivers the keynote address at the “Interactive TB Vaccines Dialogue” organized by STOP TB Partnership on the sidelines of the ongoing 79th session of the UNGA

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel delivers the keynote address at the “Interactive TB Vaccines Dialogue” organized by STOP TB Partnership on the sidelines of the ongoing 79th session of the UNGA

    Reaffirms India’s commitment to Global TB Elimination Efforts; speaks about the Research & Development of TB vaccines in India

    India is progressing against the Sustainable Development Goals at a far greater pace than the global average, with a decline in TB incidence by 16% from 237 per hundred thousand population in 2015 to 199 in 2022 and a decline of 18% in TB deaths during this period: Smt. Patel

    “Till Aug 2024, NTEP has disbursed 373 million USD to more than 10 million TB patients under the Nikshay Poshan Yojana since its inception in 2018”

    “With over 7,767 molecular diagnostic laboratories, cutting-edge treatment protocols, and an 88% treatment success rate, India’s TB program has become a model for the world”

    “The Stop TB Partnership, a beacon of collective strength, has evolved into a global force comprising over 2,000 partners from diverse sectors, all united in our resolve to eliminate TB as a public health problem by 2030”

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 7:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel delivered the keynote address at the “Interactive TB Vaccines Dialogue” event organized by STOP TB Partnerships on the sidelines of the ongoing 79thsession of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City, today. As part of ongoing initiatives to expedite the fight against tuberculosis (TB), the event convened experts, dignitaries, and critical stakeholders from around the globe.

    The objectives of the TB Vaccines Dialogue include: convening key and relevant country and global stakeholders and partners who, now and in the future, will be critical for the practical and realistic development and delivery of TB vaccines; and understanding and start addressing critical misconceptions, questions, and knowledge gaps, including needs, desires, and challenges related to the practical and realistic development and delivery of TB vaccines.

    Delivering an affirming statement of global leadership during the Dialogue, Smt. Patel highlighted India’s role as Chair of the Stop TB Partnership Board and reiterated the nation’s commitment to eliminating TB as a public health problem by 2030 and ensuring a healthier future for all. She highlighted that “India is progressing against the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) at a far greater pace than the global average, with a decline in TB incidence by 16% from 237 per hundred thousand population in 2015 to 199 in 2022 and a decline of 18% in TB deaths from 28 per hundred thousand population in 2015 to 23 in 2022.”

     

    She further added that, “under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has made remarkable strides in TB care and prevention, from infrastructure expansion to financial support for patients”, referencing the National Strategic Plan that has significantly scaled up TB services nationwide. With over 7,767 molecular diagnostic laboratories, cutting-edge treatment protocols, and an 88% treatment success rate, India’s TB program has become a model for the world. India initiated Nikshay Poshan Yojana in 2018 for providing $6 USD/month to support nutrition of TB patients for the entire duration of treatment. Cumulatively, till Aug 2024, NTEP has disbursed 373 million USD to more than 10 million TB patients.”

    Emphasizing the critical need for new vaccines, Smt. Patel stated that “TB has been the worst killer amongst all infectious diseases. While the childhood BCG vaccine has been essential in protecting children, its protective effects diminish with age” and “despite our advances, the world still loses millions of lives to TB. So, the time to invest in innovative vaccines is now.”

    Highlighting the “urgent need for an innovative and effective TB Vaccine”, Smt. Patel emphasized that “the unmet need for a TB Vaccine, and its potential role in TB elimination is where the world is focusing now” and “this forum represents a critical opportunity for us to come together, share knowledge, and accelerate the development of these life-saving vaccines. The past decades have witnessed a reawakening of novel vaccine approaches. Technical advances in molecular genetics and the design of viral vectors and adjuvants have facilitated TB vaccine development.” She further added that “with around 16 vaccines having entered clinical trial assessments, the future of TB vaccine development looks considerably brighter than before.”

    She highlighted India’s Research & Development (R&D) with recombinant BCG VPM1002 and Immuvac, the ongoing trial for evaluation of BCG revaccination in adults, and another trial in Phase IIb with novel vaccine MTBVAC ongoing among adults.

    Underlining the importance of the Stop TB Partnership, Smt. Patel stated that, “the partnership is a beacon of collective strength and has evolved into a global force comprising over 2,000 partners from diverse sectors, all united in our resolve to eliminate TB as a public health problem by 2030.”

     

    Offering to “share India’s experiences and capacities in the area”, Smt. Patel stated that, “as chair of the Stop TB Partnership Board, my call to action is to ensure that the world has at least one new and effective TB vaccine in the next one year”.  She concluded her address by urging the stakeholders to come together for “increased funding for TB Vaccine research; fostering global collaboration of governments, public and private institutions, and donors to ensure that “the vaccines are not only developed but also made available to people equitably, learning from the painful lessons of access to COVID vaccines.”

     

    ***

    MV

    HFW/ MoS Stop TB event at 79th UNGA /24th September 2024/3

    (Release ID: 2058358) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare organizes the National Conference on Implementing Digital Public Infrastructure under the Digital Agriculture Mission in New Delhi today

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare organizes the National Conference on Implementing Digital Public Infrastructure under the Digital Agriculture Mission in New Delhi today

     Conference aims to discuss the implementation of DPI in continuation of the Centre-State collaboration to integrate digital technologies in agriculture

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 7:41PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW), Government of India, organized the National Conference on Implementing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) under the Digital Agriculture Mission in New Delhi today. The conference aimed to discuss the implementation of DPI in continuation of the Centre-State collaboration to integrate digital technologies in agriculture, focusing on the implementation of components of the Digital Agriculture Mission such as Agri Stack, Krishi DSS, soil profile mapping and others to streamline service delivery and enhance the efficiency of agricultural schemes. Senior officials from all parts of the country attended the conference. It was a crucial platform for addressing technical and administrative reforms required to implement the farmer registry, avail the Special Central Assistance (SCA) Scheme funds and synergise national effort with state-level implementations.

    The conference began with a formal inaugural session, where Secretary (DA&FW), Shri Devesh Chaturvedi presented an overview of the Digital Agriculture Mission and the Special Central Assistance (SCA) Scheme, highlighting the government’s vision to revolutionize agriculture through technology enablement. This was followed by a presentation by Secretary Department of Land Resources, Shri Manoj Joshi discussing the synergy between land reforms, the Farmer Registry and the role of States in implementing these reforms.

    The unveiling of the Guidelines of Digital Agriculture Mission and SCA for Farmer Registry implementation and the Farmer Registry Handbook marked a significant milestone for the sustainability of digital agriculture initiatives, signalling a commitment by the Government of India to provide technical and financial support to the States.

    Key Sessions and Discussions:

    Throughout the day, a series of interactive sessions were convened, fostering vibrant discussion that delved deep into the multifaceted landscape of digital agriculture initiatives such as Farmer Registry implementation, Digital Crop Survey etc. These session discussions served as an invaluable platform for stakeholders to exchange perspectives, insights, and experiences, shedding light on the states’ issues and challenges in nurturing a farmer-centric technology ecosystem. The Centre and the States discussed the issues, clarified their doubts and discussed solutions encouraging seamless collaboration between the Centre and the States-

    The session featured an insightful presentation on implementing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and the SCA scheme funds to states on Farmer Registry implementation by Dr Pramod Kumar Meherda, Addl. Secretary (Digital), DoA&FW.

    Smt. Varsha Joshi, Addl Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, spoke about implementing Live Stack (DPI for livestock and animal husbandry sector), while Shri Sagar Mehra, Jt. Secretary (Do Fisheries) provided a vision for Aqua Stack (DPI for the fisheries sector) and integrated digital solutions in fisheries.

    • Session II

    The second session consisted of a context-setting presentation by Shri Rajeev Chawla, Chief Knowledge Officer and Advisor, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Govt. of India.

    The second session consisted of 3 panel discussions-

    • The first-panel discussion was on the State Farmer Registry implementation as part of Agri Stack, chaired by Shri Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary (DA&FW), with participation from senior Central and State officers.

     

    • Dr Pramod Meherda, Additional Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, chaired the second panel discussion with states. The session delved into challenges and opportunities in integrating Farmer Registries, Digital Crop Surveys, and Supporting Registries for enhanced service delivery, data accuracy, and addressing gaps in existing systems.

     

    The second session included a context setting by Smt. Ruchika Gupta, Advisor (DA), Department of Agriculture, on the adoption of Support Registers.

     

    • The third discussion focused on the issues in implementing the Digital Crop Survey (DCS) taken by CKO&A and Advisor (DA). The issues were discussed in detail, and solutions were presented to the states.

     

    Technical Discussions:

    The event concluded with technical discussions led by the Agri Stack Technical Team, emphasizing the operational details and future roadmap for advancing DPI across the agricultural value chain.

    The conference not only facilitated in-depth deliberations on the potential of digital technologies but also underscored the role of Digital Public Infrastructure in achieving the goals of the Digital India Mission.

    Shri Ravi Ranjan Singh, Director (DA), delivered the Vote of Thanks.

    *****

    SS

    (Release ID: 2058352) Visitor Counter : 42

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare organizes the National Conference on Implementing Digital Public Infrastructure under the Digital Agriculture Mission in New Delhi today

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare organizes the National Conference on Implementing Digital Public Infrastructure under the Digital Agriculture Mission in New Delhi today

     Conference aims to discuss the implementation of DPI in continuation of the Centre-State collaboration to integrate digital technologies in agriculture

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 7:41PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW), Government of India, organized the National Conference on Implementing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) under the Digital Agriculture Mission in New Delhi today. The conference aimed to discuss the implementation of DPI in continuation of the Centre-State collaboration to integrate digital technologies in agriculture, focusing on the implementation of components of the Digital Agriculture Mission such as Agri Stack, Krishi DSS, soil profile mapping and others to streamline service delivery and enhance the efficiency of agricultural schemes. Senior officials from all parts of the country attended the conference. It was a crucial platform for addressing technical and administrative reforms required to implement the farmer registry, avail the Special Central Assistance (SCA) Scheme funds and synergise national effort with state-level implementations.

    The conference began with a formal inaugural session, where Secretary (DA&FW), Shri Devesh Chaturvedi presented an overview of the Digital Agriculture Mission and the Special Central Assistance (SCA) Scheme, highlighting the government’s vision to revolutionize agriculture through technology enablement. This was followed by a presentation by Secretary Department of Land Resources, Shri Manoj Joshi discussing the synergy between land reforms, the Farmer Registry and the role of States in implementing these reforms.

    The unveiling of the Guidelines of Digital Agriculture Mission and SCA for Farmer Registry implementation and the Farmer Registry Handbook marked a significant milestone for the sustainability of digital agriculture initiatives, signalling a commitment by the Government of India to provide technical and financial support to the States.

    Key Sessions and Discussions:

    Throughout the day, a series of interactive sessions were convened, fostering vibrant discussion that delved deep into the multifaceted landscape of digital agriculture initiatives such as Farmer Registry implementation, Digital Crop Survey etc. These session discussions served as an invaluable platform for stakeholders to exchange perspectives, insights, and experiences, shedding light on the states’ issues and challenges in nurturing a farmer-centric technology ecosystem. The Centre and the States discussed the issues, clarified their doubts and discussed solutions encouraging seamless collaboration between the Centre and the States-

    The session featured an insightful presentation on implementing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and the SCA scheme funds to states on Farmer Registry implementation by Dr Pramod Kumar Meherda, Addl. Secretary (Digital), DoA&FW.

    Smt. Varsha Joshi, Addl Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, spoke about implementing Live Stack (DPI for livestock and animal husbandry sector), while Shri Sagar Mehra, Jt. Secretary (Do Fisheries) provided a vision for Aqua Stack (DPI for the fisheries sector) and integrated digital solutions in fisheries.

    • Session II

    The second session consisted of a context-setting presentation by Shri Rajeev Chawla, Chief Knowledge Officer and Advisor, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Govt. of India.

    The second session consisted of 3 panel discussions-

    • The first-panel discussion was on the State Farmer Registry implementation as part of Agri Stack, chaired by Shri Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary (DA&FW), with participation from senior Central and State officers.

     

    • Dr Pramod Meherda, Additional Secretary, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, chaired the second panel discussion with states. The session delved into challenges and opportunities in integrating Farmer Registries, Digital Crop Surveys, and Supporting Registries for enhanced service delivery, data accuracy, and addressing gaps in existing systems.

     

    The second session included a context setting by Smt. Ruchika Gupta, Advisor (DA), Department of Agriculture, on the adoption of Support Registers.

     

    • The third discussion focused on the issues in implementing the Digital Crop Survey (DCS) taken by CKO&A and Advisor (DA). The issues were discussed in detail, and solutions were presented to the states.

     

    Technical Discussions:

    The event concluded with technical discussions led by the Agri Stack Technical Team, emphasizing the operational details and future roadmap for advancing DPI across the agricultural value chain.

    The conference not only facilitated in-depth deliberations on the potential of digital technologies but also underscored the role of Digital Public Infrastructure in achieving the goals of the Digital India Mission.

    Shri Ravi Ranjan Singh, Director (DA), delivered the Vote of Thanks.

    *****

    SS

    (Release ID: 2058352) Visitor Counter : 42

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Railways-Wabtec JV’s Marhowra Plant to Begin Exporting Evolution Series Locomotives to Africa by 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Indian Railways-Wabtec JV’s Marhowra Plant to Begin Exporting Evolution Series Locomotives to Africa by 2025

    India Set to Become Global Locomotive Manufacturing Hub with First-Ever Exports from Bihar’s Marhowra Plant

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 6:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Wabtec Locomotive Private Limited, a joint venture between Indian Railways and Wabtec, is expanding the capabilities of its plant to export locomotives to Africa. For the first time, the plant will manufacture locomotives for export to a global customer.

    The plant will supply Evolution Series ES43ACmi locomotives to global customers. The ES43ACmi is a locomotive featuring a 4,500 HP Evolution Series engine, offering best-in-class fuel efficiency and proven performance in high-temperature environments. The Marhowra plant will begin exporting these locomotives in 2025.

    This project is of strategic importance as it positions India as a global locomotive manufacturing hub and aligns with the “Make in India” and “Make for the World” initiatives under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister. It will also enable the Marhowra plant to export standard-gauge locomotives globally, expanding the local supplier footprint and fostering long-term job creation, thereby benefiting the Indian economy.

    The success of the public-private partnership between the Ministry of Railways and Wabtec has positioned the Marhowra plant as a world-class global manufacturing site, utilizing an extensive local supplier base from across India. To date, around 650 locomotives have been manufactured and added to the Indian Railways locomotive fleet. The Ministry of Railways and Wabtec will continue to collaborate to enhance the plant’s capability and competitiveness, positioning it for sustainable, long-term export production work.

    The Marhowra plant, situated on 70 acres in Marhowra, Bihar, was established in 2018 to indigenously manufacture 1,000 state-of-the-art locomotives for Indian Railways. The plant provides employment to about 600 people and has been consistently delivering 100 locomotives annually to Indian Railways. It has also given a significant boost to industrial activities in the state.

    ******

    DT/SK

    (Release ID: 2058323) Visitor Counter : 64

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

     

     ***

    AD/VN/CNAN

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

    MoHUA organizes a workshop on Urban Poverty Alleviation

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

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

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

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

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

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

    About the Workshop and the pilot:

     

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

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

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

    *****

    Sushil Kumar

    (Release ID: 2058299) Visitor Counter : 82

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

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

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    Source: Government of India

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    *****

    SS

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    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    Source: Save the Children

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bill Allen and Richard Smith, Former Officers of VECO Corporation, Sentenced for Roles in Alaska Public Corruption Scheme

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    WASHINGTON – Bill J. Allen and Richard L. Smith were each sentenced in separate hearings today for their participation in a corruption scheme in which they provided approximately $395,000 in corrupt payments to public officials from the state of Alaska, announced Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Criminal Division. Allen and Smith were sentenced in U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska by U.S. District Court Judge John W. Sedwick.

    Allen, 72 , the former chief executive officer of VECO Corporation, was sentenced to 36 months in prison, a $750,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Smith, 64 , the former vice president of community and government affairs for VECO Corporation, was sentenced to 21 months in prison, a $10,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

    Both defendants pleaded guilty on May 7, 2007, to three-count informations charging each with bribery; conspiracy to commit bribery, extortion under color of official right, and honest services mail and wire fraud; and conspiracy to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. According to court documents, Allen and Smith conspired with at least five members of the Alaska legislature to provide illegal financial benefits to several Alaska elected officials in exchange for those officials’ support on legislation pending before the Alaska state legislature. Allen and Smith also pleaded guilty to one substantive count of bribery, and admitted that they provided approximately $395,000 in benefits to public officials from the state of Alaska in connection with the scheme.

    The Allen sentencing was handled by Deputy Chief James M. Trusty of the Criminal Division’s Gang Unit, Trial Attorney Kevin R. Gingras of the Criminal Division’s Appellate Section and Trial Attorney Peter M. Koski of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section. The Smith sentencing was handled by Trial Attorney M. Kendall Day and Deputy Chief Raymond Hulser of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section. The case is being investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former West Point Employee Pleads Guilty in $3 Million Embezzlement Scheme

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    A Highland Falls, N.Y., woman pleaded guilty today for her role in a scheme to defraud and embezzle funds from the U.S. government by authorizing nearly $3 million in payments from the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., to a bogus corporation she controlled.

    Bobbie Cyana Ryan, 51, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly to a three-count information charging her with devising a scheme to defraud, and transmitting funds in interstate commerce for the purpose of executing the scheme; embezzlement and conversion by Ryan of government funds; and executing a financial transaction with criminally derived funds.

    According to court documents filed in U.S. District Court in the District of Columbia, Ryan worked in the Information, Education and Technology division in the Office of the Dean at West Point. Ryan was responsible for coordinating information technology training programs for West Point staff. According to court documents, based on irregularities found during a routine audit, U.S. Army investigators discovered that Ryan, acting as the requesting and approving official, used her government purchase card and cards of her unknowing subordinates to authorize approximately $2.9 million in payments to CWG Enterprises. The payments were purportedly for either on-site training instructors or training reference materials when, in fact, no personnel were ever trained and no materials were ever provided.

    U.S. Army investigators subsequently discovered that Ryan conducted financial transactions and identified herself as doing business as CWG Enterprises. Ryan used a rented mail box as the company address for CWG Enterprises. Based on false invoices created by Ryan, transfers of government funds were allegedly made from a bank in Washington to a bank account in the name of “Bobbie C. Ryan dba CWG Enterprises” at a bank in New Windsor, N.Y. Once the funds arrived in the purported CWG Enterprises bank account, Ryan withdrew the funds and paid personal and family expenses.

    At sentencing, scheduled for Feb. 19, 2010, Ryan faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison a fine of up to twice the pecuniary gain from the scheme.

    The case is being investigated by the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, Hartford Fraud Resident Agency. The case is being prosecuted by Senior Trial Attorney Andrew Levchuk of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: The Eclipse Foundation Launches the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group to Help Open Source Participants Navigate Global Regulations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRUSSELS, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Eclipse Foundation, one of the world’s largest open source foundations, has announced the formation of the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group (ORC WG). This pioneering initiative aims to support participants across the global open source community—including developers, enterprises, industries, and open source foundations—in navigating and adhering to evolving regulatory frameworks. Additionally, the working group will work closely with governments and regulatory bodies to enhance their understanding of the unique open source development model. Supported by prominent open source foundations and global technology leaders, this collaborative effort is dedicated to advancing the open source model in an increasingly regulated software supply chain.

    “Given the impact of software technology on the global economy, it is unsurprising that governments worldwide are enacting new regulations to safeguard privacy, security, and accessibility,” said Mike Milinkovich, executive director of the Eclipse Foundation.“The Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group was created to bridge the gap between regulatory authorities and the open source ecosystem, ensuring organisations and developers can leverage open source technologies while remaining compliant with evolving global regulations.”

    The newly established working group is committed to formalising industry best practices and offering essential resources to help organisations navigate regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions. Additionally, it aims to assist government entities in providing greater legal certainty to the open source ecosystem and software supply chain.

    Through collaboration and guidance, the group seeks to elevate software quality and security in open source projects. Backed by the Eclipse Foundation’s strong commitment to open source supply chain security, the working group leverages a team of expert security professionals and rigorous processes. As a CVE Numbering Authority, the Eclipse Foundation plays a key role in effective vulnerability management, ensuring that security remains a top priority for all contributors, projects, and users within the ecosystem.

    While the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group is chartered to address compliance with open source-impacting requirements in general, its immediate focus is the European Cyber Resilience Act (CRA). With the CRA rapidly approaching implementation, the working group’s immediate efforts are centred on ensuring compliance with this new legislation.

    Current Initiatives:

    1. Process Specifications: Development of cybersecurity process specifications and best practices aligned with the requirements of the CRA.
    2. Collaboration with European Authorities: The working group actively engages with the various European institutions to understand legislative timelines and produce timely compliance materials, with a primary focus on the CRA.
    3. Formalising Standards Participation: Having secured formal liaison status with the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC), the working group is actively pursuing working relationships with other European and National Standards Organizations to expand its contribution on regulatory standards.
    4. Community and Industry Education: A series of webinars with European Commission staff aims to keep the open source community informed about the EU’s legislative process. Recordings and materials, including sessions like “How to Read the CRA” led by Enzo Ribagnac, Associate Director for European Policy at Eclipse Foundation, are available here.
    5. Centralised Information Hub: The working group is developing a central resource to house all relevant CRA-related content, including webinars, glossaries, flowcharts, and FAQs to inform EU guidelines.

    Collaborative Engagement:

    The working group has garnered significant support from a broad range of open source organisations and private companies. As of the date of this announcement, participant organisations include: Apache Software Foundation (ASF), Blender Foundation, Robert Bosch GmbH, CodeDay, The Document Foundation, FreeBSD Foundation, iJUG, Lunatech, Matrix.org Foundation, Mercedes-Benz Tech Innovation GmbH, Nokia, NLnet Labs, Obeo, Open Elements, OpenForum Europe, OpenInfra Foundation, Open Source Initiative (OSI), Open Source Robotics Foundation (OSRF), OWASP, Payara Services, The PHP Foundation, Python Software Foundation, Rust Foundation, SCANOSS, Siemens, and Software Heritage.

    For more information on joining the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group, visit the participation page.

    Member Quotes:

    Apache Software Foundation (ASF)
    “The CRA will impact open source users and producers alike. Legislators will benefit from the brain trust of open source organisations that Eclipse has brought together to ensure that the legislation is crafted in a way that protects all parties. The Apache Software Foundation is committed to safeguarding our digital future by addressing the multifaceted challenges of cybersecurity in the open source ecosystem, and cooperating with and implementing the CRA.” – David Nalley, President of the Apache Software Foundation

    Bosch
    “Bosch supports the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) as a harmonised cybersecurity framework, but also recognizes the crucial role of open-source software (OSS) in its supply chain. Thus, it is vital to regulate the use of OSS in a reasonable way. This requires new processes for OSS due diligence, developed through close collaboration between OSS stewards and manufacturers. We welcome the Eclipse Foundation’s initiative to provide software security specifications aligned with open-source practices. We are convinced that by bringing together industry leaders, SMEs, researchers, and OSS experts, we will be able to develop processes that meet regulations while also supporting open development. We also expect these processes to serve as blueprints for the upcoming EU Data and AI Act and future regulations.” – Dr. Andreas Nauerz – Executive Vice President at Robert Bosch GmbH

    The Document Foundation
    “The Document Foundation participates in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group because it believes that the development of common best practices for the security of open source software is an important factor in the recognition of FOSS as a key element of the global information technology infrastructure and compliance with laws such as the Cyber Resilience Act in the EU.” – Italo Vignoli, Director at The Document Foundation

    FreeBSD Foundation
    The FreeBSD Foundation is proud to participate in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. This initiative is key to helping developers and organisations continue innovating while navigating complex global regulations like the European Cyber Resilience Act. We believe collaboration within the open source community is essential to overcoming these challenges, and we’re excited to contribute to this important effort.” – Deb Goodkin, Executive Director of the FreeBSD Foundation

    Mercedes-Benz Tech Innovation GmbH
    “We support the mission of the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group to help shape the future of secure software development in Europe, together with the European Commission, Open Source foundations and other industry players.” – Jochen Strenkert, Chief Engineer MB.OS

    Nokia
    “Open source communities and the software they produce are ever more important for the whole industry. This is exactly why for Nokia the wellbeing and sustainability of the open source communities is paramount. The European Union Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) brings potential new requirements to the open source communities. Nokia strongly believes that the targets of the EU CRA and the best outcome can only be achieved by the open source community having a strong voice in this process. We believe that the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group is the way to achieve this. Therefore, Nokia is honoured to join the ORC WG. We are looking forward to working as part of the community to ensure getting the best possible outcome of the EU CRA for everybody.” – Jonne Soininen, Head of Open Source Initiatives at Nokia

    Obeo
    “As an SME with open-source in its DNA and a strategic member of the Eclipse Foundation, Obeo is thrilled to join the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. Collaborating with major industry players in critical and strategic sectors, we believe that open innovation is essential for navigating the evolving regulatory landscape. We stress the importance of new regulations recognizing the unique nature of this model to ensure that communities continue to thrive while complying with governmental requirements.” – Cédric Brun, President of Obeo

    The Open Source Initiative (OSI)
    “Compliance with the Cyber Resilience Act and other upcoming legislation poses a new challenge for the Open Source community. The Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group gives us an opportunity to find solutions together, and to work with lawmakers and regulatory bodies to help them better understand Open Source. We very much look forward to contributing to the working group.” – Stefano Maffulli, Executive Director at OSI

    Open Source Robotics Foundation (OSRF)
    “The OSRF is pleased to be involved in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. As well as finding and creating best practices and methodologies for open-source projects to follow when complying with the EU’s new Cyber Resilience Act, the outputs of this working group will enable open-source projects, including in robotics, to also comply with other existing and future regulations that create a safer and more secure world for all. We are honoured to be working with other open-source foundations on this critical task.” – Geoff Biggs, CTO at the Open Source Robotics Foundation

    Payara Services Ltd
    “At Payara, we are proud to be an active participant in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group (ORC WG). By collaborating with other ORC WG members, we will contribute to the development of best practices, guidelines, and standards that will help the open-source community meet evolving regulatory requirements, starting with the European Cyber Resilience Act (CRA). We believe that the implementation of these regulations is essential for ensuring safer software and robust protection for users and enterprises worldwide. Our active participation in this working group underscores our dedication to keeping open-source solutions a trusted choice for companies globally.” – Steve Millidge, Founder at Payara Services Ltd

    The PHP Foundation

    “We’re delighted to be joining the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. With new regulations such as the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) on the horizon, it’s great to be working with other Open Source foundations. We’ll share what we know about building secure software and learn from one another. Our goal is simple: to help make these new regulations work for everyone, without stifling the creativity that makes Open Source so great.” – Roman Pronskiy, Executive Director at the PHP Foundation

    Python Software Foundation

    The safety and security of Python is important to all our users for different reasons, but the recent Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) has created a sharp incentive to work on a collective understanding of best practices for all stakeholders. We appreciate the opportunity to share and collaborate on these topics with our open source peers via the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. — Deb Nicholson, Executive Director at Python Software Foundation

    Rust Foundation
    “The Rust Foundation is delighted to join the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group. We look forward to working collaboratively with key Open Source and Industry stakeholders to ensure that emerging and evolving regulation is high quality, accommodating of the unique and valuable features of Open Source, and fit for purpose.“ – Rebecca Rumbul, Executive Director & CEO, Rust Foundation

    SCANOSS
    “Every day, we see the growing need for regulatory tools and robust supply chain security. SCANOSS is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive Open Source detection and SBOM solution, helping organisations mitigate risk and comply with regulations like the CRA. We are honoured to join the Eclipse Foundation in leading this effort to ensure the security and resilience of the open source software supply chain.” – Alan Facey, CEO at SCANOSS

    Siemens
    “Open source technologies are embedded in and vital to many of our solutions. Through our involvement in the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group, we actively shape standards to ensure compliance with evolving regulations.” – Oliver Fendt, Senior Manager Open Source at Siemens

    Software Heritage
    “The mission of Software Heritage, launched by Inria and in partnership with UNESCO, is to collect, preserve and share all publicly available software source code. With over 50 billion software artefacts secured through the Software Hash Identifier (SWHID) specification, we guarantee long-term availability, ensure integrity, and enable traceability across the entire software ecosystem. As a foundational non profit open infrastructure for software integrity and compliance, we are excited to join the Open Regulatory Compliance Working Group to support the evolving regulatory landscape and ensure the open source ecosystem thrives.” – Roberto Di Cosmo, co-founder and director, Software Heritage

    About the Eclipse Foundation
    The Eclipse Foundation provides our global community of individuals and organisations with a business-friendly environment for open source software collaboration and innovation. We host the Eclipse IDE, Adoptium, Software Defined Vehicle, Jakarta EE, and over 415 open source projects, including runtimes, tools, specifications, and frameworks for cloud and edge applications, IoT, AI, automotive, systems engineering, open processor designs, and many others. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, the Eclipse Foundation is an international non-profit association supported by over 360 members. Visit us at this year’s Open Community Experience (OCX) conference on 22-24 October 2024 in Mainz, Germany. To learn more, follow us on social media @EclipseFdn, LinkedIn, or visit eclipse.org.

    Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

    Media contacts:
    Schwartz Public Relations for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL (Germany)
    Gloria Huppert/Marita Bäumer
    Sendlinger Straße 42A
    80331 Munich
    EclipseFoundation@schwartzpr.de
    +49 (89) 211 871 -70/ -62

    Nichols Communications for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL
    Jay Nichols
    jay@nicholscomm.com
    +1 408-772-1551

    514 Media Ltd for the Eclipse Foundation, AISBL (France, Italy, Spain)
    Benoit Simoneau
    benoit@514-media.com
    M: +44 (0) 7891 920 370

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Holding(s) in Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TR-1: Standard form for notification of major holdings

    1. Issuer Details
    ISIN
    GB00BLDRH360
    Issuer Name
    OSB GROUP PLC
    UK or Non-UK Issuer
    UK
    2. Reason for Notification
    An acquisition or disposal of voting rights
    3. Details of person subject to the notification obligation
    Name
    BlackRock, Inc.
    City of registered office (if applicable)
    Wilmington
    Country of registered office (if applicable)
    USA
    4. Details of the shareholder
    Full name of shareholder(s) if different from the person(s) subject to the notification obligation, above

    City of registered office (if applicable)

    Country of registered office (if applicable)

    5. Date on which the threshold was crossed or reached
    20-Sep-2024
    6. Date on which Issuer notified
    23-Sep-2024
    7. Total positions of person(s) subject to the notification obligation

    . % of voting rights attached to shares (total of 8.A) % of voting rights through financial instruments (total of 8.B 1 + 8.B 2) Total of both in % (8.A + 8.B) Total number of voting rights held in issuer
    Resulting situation on the date on which threshold was crossed or reached 5.160000 0.340000 5.500000 21013776
    Position of previous notification (if applicable) 4.620000 0.380000 5.000000  

    8. Notified details of the resulting situation on the date on which the threshold was crossed or reached
    8A. Voting rights attached to shares

    Class/Type of shares ISIN code(if possible) Number of direct voting rights (DTR5.1) Number of indirect voting rights (DTR5.2.1) % of direct voting rights (DTR5.1) % of indirect voting rights (DTR5.2.1)
    GB00BLDRH360   19665223   5.160000
    Sub Total 8.A 19665223 5.160000%

    8B1. Financial Instruments according to (DTR5.3.1R.(1) (a))

    Type of financial instrument Expiration date Exercise/conversion period Number of voting rights that may be acquired if the instrument is exercised/converted % of voting rights
    Securities Lending     368875 0.090000
    Sub Total 8.B1   368875 0.090000%

    8B2. Financial Instruments with similar economic effect according to (DTR5.3.1R.(1) (b))

    Type of financial instrument Expiration date Exercise/conversion period Physical or cash settlement Number of voting rights % of voting rights
    CFD     Cash 979678 0.250000
    Sub Total 8.B2   979678 0.250000%

    9. Information in relation to the person subject to the notification obligation
    2. Full chain of controlled undertakings through which the voting rights and/or the financial instruments are effectively held starting with the ultimate controlling natural person or legal entities (please add additional rows as necessary)

    Ultimate controlling person Name of controlled undertaking % of voting rights if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold % of voting rights through financial instruments if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold Total of both if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Holdco 3, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Cayman 1 LP      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Group Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Finance Europe Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 1) BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Australia Holdco Pty. Ltd.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 2) BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Holdco 4, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Holdco 6, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Delaware Holdings Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 3) BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, National Association      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 4, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Holdco 6, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Delaware Holdings Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 4) BlackRock Fund Advisors      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Canada Holdings ULC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 5) BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Holdco 2, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock International Holdings, Inc.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BR Jersey International Holdings L.P.      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Holdco 3, LLC      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Cayman 1 LP      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Group Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Finance Europe Limited      
    BlackRock, Inc. (Chain 6) BlackRock Advisors (UK) Limited      

    10. In case of proxy voting
    Name of the proxy holder

    The number and % of voting rights held

    The date until which the voting rights will be held

    11. Additional Information
    BlackRock Regulatory Threshold Reporting Team

    Jana Blumenstein

    020 7743 3650
    12. Date of Completion
    23rd September 2024
    13. Place Of Completion
    12 Throgmorton Avenue, London, EC2N 2DL, U.K.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TransUnion Announces Earnings Release Date for Third Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TransUnion (NYSE: TRU) will publish its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, in a press release to be issued at approximately 6:00 a.m. Central Time (CT) on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. The company will hold a conference call on the same day at 8:30 a.m. (CT) to discuss its financial results. The press release and a live webcast of the earnings conference call will be available on the TransUnion Investor Relations website at http://www.transunion.com/tru.

    About TransUnion (NYSE: TRU)

    TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries. We make trust possible by ensuring each person is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this with a Tru™ picture of each person: an actionable view of consumers, stewarded with care. Through our acquisitions and technology investments we have developed innovative solutions that extend beyond our strong foundation in core credit into areas such as marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for millions of people around the world.

    http://www.transunion.com/business

    E-mail investor.relations@transunion.com
    Telephone 312-985-2860

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First Step assisted purchase housing scheme reopens23 September 2024 The Government has reopened a scheme to help Islanders buy their first home.  First Step, a scheme to help aspiring homeowners onto the property ladder, was launched by the Minister for Housing, Deputy… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    23 September 2024

    The Government has reopened a scheme to help Islanders buy their first home. 

    First Step, a scheme to help aspiring homeowners onto the property ladder, was launched by the Minister for Housing, Deputy Sam Mézec, in February this year, and reopened for a second round of applications in June. It has so far resulted in 51 applicants being offered equity loans.

    First Step is delivered in partnership with Andium Homes and uses £10m of Government funding to help eligible Islanders access a contribution of up to 40% towards the purchase of an open-market property. 

    Applicants have four weeks to apply, with the deadline for applications on 20 October 2024. Applicants must:

    • hold Entitled status
    • not own any property in Jersey or overseas
    • be registered on the Assisted Purchase Pathway 
    • be able to provide a 5% deposit towards the purchase
    • be able to access the maximum lending available to them from one of the scheme’s partnering mortgage lenders
    • not be under offer on another assisted purchase scheme. 

    Islanders not already registered should apply to the Assisted Purchase Pathway before applying for First Step. Applications will be means-tested against the financial criteria.

    It is anticipated that up to 60 households will benefit from the initial £10 million investment. An additional £2 million has been earmarked for the scheme in the proposed Budget for next year, subject to States Assembly approval. 

    The Minister for Housing, Deputy Sam Mézec, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to reopen First Step for a third time this year. This scheme has made a real difference to Islanders who would have otherwise been unable to own their first home. I am hopeful that we will be able to reopen First Step in 2025 to help even more Islanders into home ownership. In the meantime, I would like to thank our Government officials and the team at Andium Homes for their valuable work this year.”

    Andium Homes’ Policy & Stakeholder Engagement Lead, Dominique Caunce, said: “We were delighted with the interest shown in the first and second tranches of the scheme, where the funding available enabled us to make loan offers to 51 first-time buyers. Feedback from previous applicants has been really positive, particularly around the website and application process, and we would encourage all those unsuccessful in the initial tranches to reapply.”

    Islanders wishing to join the Assisted Purchase Pathway, or those wanting to update their details, can do so via First Step (andiumhomes.je)​ ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liverpool Named World’s First “Accelerator City” for Climate Action by UN Climate Change

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool has become the world’s first ‘Accelerator City’ for climate action, under UN Climate Change’s Entertainment and Culture for Climate Action (ECCA) programme.

    The title comes in recognition of Liverpool’s impressive commitment to innovation and smart regulation to rapidly decarbonise the live music and TV/Film production sectors – both vital parts of the city’s economy – following several years of developmental work by ACT 1.5, an artist-led research and action effort, and climate scientists from the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research.

    To mark the launch of this initiative, the following key events and plans were also announced today:

    • A three-night live music series at Liverpool Arena from 28 – 30 November in collaboration with Massive Attack, ACT 1.5 and SJM concerts, to showcase innovations in sustainability and the smart design of live music events.
    • A headline industry event, called Expedition 1, on (29 November) and public event (30 November) in the adjacent ACC Liverpool which will test and showcase eight cross-sectoral pilot projects for rapid decarbonisation across live music, TV and film productions scheduled in 2025, and then invite the public into multiple climate action workshops, live audience podcasts, and performances.
    • The implementation of three initial plans for galvanising decarbonization in the cultural sector: a pioneering integrated public transport and ticketing program (TAG Network); electrification with 100% renewable energy of all key live event and filming locations in the city centre; and a new Paris 1.5-degree compatible sustainability standard that major events will need to meet in order to be granted a land use agreement for an event to proceed.

    This work builds upon the groundbreaking project commissioned by the band Massive Attack and developed over the past four years, culminating in a climate action accelerator event entitled ACT 1.5 in Bristol (UK) in late August.

    The band worked in collaboration with the Tyndall Centre, AGF, and super low-carbon providers to produce what is anticipated to have been the lowest greenhouse gas emissions show of its size ever staged.

    As an ’Accelerator City’ Liverpool, which has just announced huge plans for the future of its music sector, will expand on this use of policy, technology, infrastructure, and transport practices to pilot and then embed decarbonisation methods into the fabric of the city, extending the scope of this work to include national film and television institutions; establishing cross-sectoral solutions with clean, green providers and sustainability-focused event & onscreen producers.

    The world-leading Accelerator City programme is supported by Ecotricity and is comprised of a partnership network of private, public sector, and UN organisations including BBC, BAFTA Albert, BFI, Earth Percent, Equity, BECTU, The European Space Agency, A Greener Future, Association of Independent Festivals, UN Climate Change, UNESCO, ZENOBE Energy, and numerous transport, food and local service providers.

    Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change, said: “I commend the city of Liverpool on its ambitious plans to dramatically speed up decarbonisation in this vital sector. Cities and towns are absolutely essential in picking up the pace and scale of climate action – and the cultural sector plays a vital role in unlocking innovation and promoting sustainable behaviours. I applaud Liverpool’s initiative and look forward to identifying other ‘Accelerator Cities’ in the future.” 

    UK Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy MP, said: “I am proud and delighted that Liverpool – as famous for its cultural exports as it is for its maritime history – will be the UN’s first Accelerator City for climate change action.

    “I would especially like to congratulate the artists, scientists, providers and the city council who have made huge efforts and driven innovative solutions to tackle greenhouse gas emissions and are having their work recognised in this way. Dynamic projects like these are completely in line with our mission for the UK to become global leaders in this action once again, and with our efforts to boost clean, green, highly skilled jobs at home to drive economic growth and achieve clean power by 2030.”

    Robert Del Naja, (3D – Massive Attack), said: “Our recent Bristol show demonstrated beyond question that major live music events can be Paris 1.5 compatible, and that audiences will embrace change enthusiastically. The vast scope of work in Liverpool and UN recognition means we can now concentrate more dynamic pilots and experiments to rapidly phase out fossil fuels. This idea and this insistence are not going back in any box. We’re delighted to see artists like Coldplay testing elements like localised ticket pre-sales and 100% renewable energy as recommended in the Tyndall Centre Paris 1.5 decarbonisation road map and encourage other artists to do so freely. The talking stage is over, it’s time to act.”    

    Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said:  ‘Liverpool has redefined the transformative power of culture over the past 25 years by blending imagination and innovation with a passion to deliver amazing results – be it staging the best-ever Eurovision to playing a leading role in the UK’s recovery from Covid. Now we’re ready to apply all of our best efforts to tackling the biggest challenge humanity faces and we are deeply honoured the UN has recognised our commitment to decarbonise our cultural sector and appointed Liverpool as the World’s First “Accelerator City” for Climate Action.

    “What is so fantastic about this status, is not just the plans we have to help decarbonise music, events and filming, but also the way that this project will educate and motivate audiences through something they really care about – music and entertainment. Liverpool is a city that has always strived to innovate and inspire, and this award recognises that on a global scale.“

    Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “Liverpool has always been a city of firsts but being named the world’s first ‘Accelerator City’ is huge for our region, and another example of how we’re leading the charge on climate action. We’re not just talking about change; we’re making it happen. By bringing innovation to the sectors that define us—like music, film and TV —we’re showing the world how culture can drive real, meaningful climate action. Together, we’re proving that the Liverpool City Region isn’t just making headlines; it’s helping to write the playbook for building a fairer, greener future a reality for everyone.”

    Matt Scarff, Managing Director BAFTA Albert, said: “The screen industries are uniquely placed to help drive forward the vital progress and innovation needed to protect the future of our planet. BAFTA albert is proud to support this brilliant UN initiative and support the city of Liverpool as we work to make it a hub of sustainable creativity for generations to come.”

    Professor Carly McLachlan, Director of Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research, said: “This city level action to transform live music and film and TV production is really exciting in its ambition and the critical combination of collaboration and regulation. We need to move fast on decarbonisation and that means innovation and new ways of working, but crucially it also means sharing learning, getting the right infrastructure in place and ratcheting up minimum standards. Liverpool’s global recognition as such a culturally rich city make it a brilliant location to demonstrate to the world how things can be done differently.”                                                         

    Dale Vince OBE, Founder of Ecotricity, said: “Big congrats to Liverpool, leading the way by adopting Act 1.5 across the city. We’ve been working with Massive Attack on the music side and with partners in film and tv production to show that it’s possible for the live event sector to operate this way – that’s important not just for the sake of its own … footprint but because of the platform it has – we can reach huge amounts of people this way and show them there is another way to live.  I love the scale and the ambition.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UN Human Rights Council 57: Interactive Dialogue on Myanmar

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner for Human Rights on Myanmar. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Location:
    Geneva
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Thank you Deputy High Commissioner for your update. And we thank the High Commissioner for his report.

    The humanitarian and human rights crisis in Myanmar continues to deepen. In August, more than 42,000 people were displaced, and the Myanmar military conducted more airstrikes than in any other month since the coup, targeting villages, schools and hospitals. At the same time, the military continues to obstruct aid, preventing vital supplies from reaching those in need.

    We call on the Myanmar military, and all other actors, to allow safe, unimpeded humanitarian access to vulnerable communities. This is crucial as people suffer from the impacts of flooding, growing food insecurity and shortages of health and sanitation supplies. The UK will provide more than £40 million in assistance this financial year. We encourage other Member States to also consider what more they can do.

    20,000 people remain arbitrarily detained, including journalists, healthcare workers and political prisoners. The IIMM (Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar) has found credible reports of widespread torture and deaths in detention, including physical abuse and sexual and gender-based violence of the most horrific kind, including against children. The military must release all those arbitrarily detained. We also call on Myanmar to comply with the UN Convention against Torture and respect the rights of detainees.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Checking a payment or application status

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Find out how students can check their payments or track the progress of their application and estimated review date.

    The start of the academic year is one of the busiest times at SLC. First term Maintenance Loan payments have been sent to students starting their studies throughout September and these will continue throughout the Autumn.

    SLC phone lines may be busy at times and that’s why students are reminded of their self-service options in their online accounts.  Whether they are shortly receiving their first payment or going through the application process, they can get the information they need quickly by logging in to their account.

    Getting Paid

    Students who need to check when they will be paid can check their payment schedule and status by signing in to their online account.

    It’s easy to check the payment status, just follow these steps:

    1. Sign in to the online account at www.gov.uk/student-finance-register-login.
    2. Select ‘Undergraduate student finance applications’.
    3. Select the application for the payments to be checked.
    4. Under the heading ‘Manage your student finance’, select ‘View your payments’.

    Checking the application status

    For those students who are still in the application process, or have yet to apply for their finance, there is some useful information available in their online account.

    Checking online will show:

    • The progress of the application
    • If there’s anything else that is needed
    • The next estimated review date of the application

    If there’s no estimated review date

    If there’s no estimated review date showing, students can check the current timescales page instead. The page is updated weekly and provides a guideline of when the application will be reviewed.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Students from England can find answers to their questions

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Students from England can use their online account to get their questions answered.

    Students from England can use their online account to get their questions answered without needing to pick up the phone.

    The account feature ‘Common questions’ is located in the menu section of their online account, with a library of over 50 articles to answer questions students, parents and partners are asking us.

    Since SLC launched Common questions in August 2022, the articles have been viewed over 2.4 million times, supporting students, their parents and partners going through the application journey.

    Common questions topics

    Some of the topics we cover are:

    • How to view your payment schedule
    • How to make a change to your application
    • How long will an application take
    • How to upload evidence
    • How to support an application
    • Help with residency and identity evidence

    Tips for getting help

    Our advice to all students who need help with their student finance is to:

    1. Login to their online account
    2. Check the progress of their application
    3. Check ‘Common questions’ to find out more and get help

    Other account features

    Students can do more in their online account, like:  

    • Apply and re-apply for student finance
    • Make changes to their application details, like their university, college or course details if they changed through Clearing.
    • Upload evidence using their online account instead of posting
    • Check their payment dates and amounts using their payment schedule
    • View and download copies of their letters and emails we send them, including their Notification of Entitlement letter which they’ll need when registering with their university or college.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –