Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Advocates Global Action on Chemicals and Waste at BRS COPs 2025

    Source: Government of India

    India Advocates Global Action on Chemicals and Waste at BRS COPs 2025

    Union Minister for Environment Forest & Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav leads Indian Delegation at high-level Segment in Geneva

    Shri Yadav emphasizes India’s Regulatory Framework and Global Leadership on Plastic Pollution

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:27PM by PIB Delhi

    An Inter-Ministerial delegation from India, led by the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, is participating in the Conference of the Parties (COPs) to the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions, taking place in Geneva from 30th April to 1st May, 2025. The theme of this year’s high-level segment is “Make visible the invisible: Sound management of chemicals and wastes.”

    During his address in opening ceremony, Shri Bhupender Yadav emphasized that the theme reflects the global imperative of addressing the often-unseen threats of chemical and waste mismanagement. He reiterated India’s commitment to environmentally sound policies, underpinned by a robust legal and institutional framework.

    Key Interventions and Bilateral Engagements

    At the ministerial roundtable on ‘Means of Implementation’, Shri Yadav highlighted that the effective execution of the BRS Conventions relies significantly on access to finance, technology transfer, capacity-building, technical assistance, and strengthened international cooperation. He outlined India’s integrated approach to implementing the conventions through national legislation such as the Environment (Protection) Act, the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, and the E-Waste Management Rules, 2016, which are supported by sustained investments in institutional and technical infrastructure.

    On the sidelines of the COPs, the Union Minister Shri Yadav participated in a consultation meeting organized by Norway on the work of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) on Plastic Pollution. He apprised participants of India’s domestic initiatives such as the ban on identified single-use plastic items and the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic packaging.

    Shri Yadav further underlined India’s pioneering role in international environmental governance under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, highlighting that India introduced a resolution on single use plastics at UNEA-4, bringing the issue to the center of global discourse.

    During the bilateral meeting with Ms. Katrin Schneeberger, Director of the Federal Office for the Environment, Switzerland, Shri Yadav discussed matters related to the development of a legally binding international instrument on plastic pollution, and India’s support for the establishment of a Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals and Waste, as mandated by UNEA resolutions.

    Forward-Looking Engagement

    The High-Level Segment of the BRS COPs features ministerial roundtables and interactive dialogues focused on collaborative global action.

    India remains steadfast in its commitment to multilateral environmental cooperation and will continue to advocate for the interests of developing countries while ensuring equitable, science-based, and sustainable solutions for the planet.

    *****

    GS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Day One of National Ayush Mission Conclave Witnesses Dynamic Participation from State & UT Ayush/Health Ministers, Paving Way for Strengthened Ayush Collaboration

    Source: Government of India

    Day One of National Ayush Mission Conclave Witnesses Dynamic Participation from State & UT Ayush/Health Ministers, Paving Way for Strengthened Ayush Collaboration

    Our Goal is ‘Illness to Wellness’ leading to Happiness: Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush Prataprao Jadhav

    11.56 crore benefit from Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) in 2024: Union Ayush Minister

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:24PM by PIB Delhi

    Reaffirming its commitment and highlighting the strides taken by various States and Union Territories in the Ayush sector, the National Ayush Mission (NAM) Conclave 2025 commenced today at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala (Maharashtra). The event sets the stage for a future roadmap to consolidate and expand the outreach of Ayush services across the nation.

    Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Union Minister of State, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare inaugurated the two-day conclave, along with Ayush/Health Ministers and senior officials from various State and UT governments including Dr. Prem Chand Bairwa, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister-in-charge of Ayush, Government of Rajasthan; Shri Y. Satya Kumar Yadav, Minister of Health, Family Welfare, and Medical Education, Government of Andhra Pradesh; Dr. Dayashankar Mishra ‘Dayalu’, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush, Food Safety, and Drug Administration, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Medical Education, Government of Chhattisgarh; Shri Yadvinder Goma, Minister of Ayush, Youth Services & Sports, and Law, Government of Himachal Pradesh;  Shri G.T. Dhungel, Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Culture, Government of Sikkim; and Smt. Pi Lalrinpuii, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Mizoram.

    Organised by the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, the conclave has brought together Ayush experts, policymakers, health professionals, researchers, and innovators. It aims to strengthen the integration of traditional Indian systems of medicine into mainstream healthcare—making wellness more accessible, affordable, and evidence-based for the common citizen.

    Setting the tone of the conclave, the Union Ayush Minister said, “It is noteworthy that the Ministry had organised a NAM Conclave in 2023, where the Ministers and senior officials from various States and UTs shared valuable insights for the effective implementation of the NAM scheme. That dialogue resulted in the formulation of an action plan to improve the execution and outcomes of the National Ayush Mission. The initiative of establishment of 12,500 Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) has significantly enhanced healthcare availability, with the number of beneficiaries rising from 1.5 crore in 2021 to more than 11.5 crore in 2025. As a result, there has been a remarkable improvement in the accessibility of Ayush healthcare services, driven by improved infrastructure, availability of medicines, trained manpower, and strengthened educational institutions.”

    Encouraged by the previous success, the Union Minister added, “I am confident that this second edition of the National Ayush Mission Conclave will serve as a robust platform for both States/UTs and the Central Government to jointly review the Mission’s progress, strengthen governance systems, promote innovation, streamline financial processes, and ensure rapid and effective implementation of programmes at the grassroots level. On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt best wishes for the success of the Conclave to the teams working tirelessly at both the State/UT and Central levels. I also express my sincere gratitude to the dedicated and committed team of Kaivalyadhama for their tireless efforts.”

    Delivering the welcome address, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Union Ministry of Ayush, emphasized the growing significance of the Ayush sector through NAM, and stated, “Since its inception in 2014 with an initial budget of ₹78 crore, the National Ayush Mission has witnessed a remarkable increase in allocation, reaching ₹1275 crore in 2025–26—reflecting the immense success of the scheme and the unwavering commitment of the Government of India towards strengthening Ayush healthcare across the country. Ayush systems are gaining prominence due to their holistic approach, personalized care, and increasing global interest, backed by strong government support. According to NSSO (2022–23), nearly 95% of rural and 96% of urban Indians are aware of Ayush, with millions regularly practicing Yoga—signifying growing trust and nationwide acceptance”, the Secretary further added.

    Dr. Dayashankar Mishra, Minister of Ayush, Uttar Pradesh, lauded the efforts of the Union Government to boost the integrative healthcare infrastructure of the state through progressive schemes such as the National Ayush Mission. The Minister also mentioned, “Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in the world, has made remarkable progress in the Ayush sector. Currently, the state has 3,959 operational Ayush hospitals, offering facilities with capacities of 4 beds, 15 beds, 25 beds, and 30 beds.”

    Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Chhattisgarh mentioned, “Integrated Medicine offers a meaningful solution by combining Ayush and modern medical systems, providing dual benefits to patients.”

    Shri Prem Chand Bairwa, Deputy Chief Minister, Rajasthan, mentioned, “Through the joint efforts of Hon’ble Union Ayush Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Ayush Secretary, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, and the State Government, Ayurveda is being brought to the grassroots level. The two-day Conclave is expected to be a milestone in the development of Ayurveda. The State Government is preparing a comprehensive Ayush policy aimed at the integrated growth of all Ayush systems.

    Shri Yadvinder Goma, Minister of Ayush, Himachal Pradesh highlighted how with the support through National Ayush Mission the healthcare infrastructure continues to grow. He also stated, “Himachal Pradesh has developed an integrated model in the Ayush sector, combining traditional knowledge with modern technology, ensuring outreach to rural areas, focusing on women’s health, and enhancing transparency through digital solutions. This progress is a meaningful step towards realising Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Ayushman Bharat’.

    Smt. Pi Lalrinpuii, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Mizoram, stated  “I am pleased to note that since the establishment of our Ayush Wellness Centers, various Ayush systems have gained considerable popularity in just a few years. This progress is largely due to the unwavering support we receive from the Ministry and the relentless efforts of our dedicated teams at state and central level.”

    Shri G.T. Dhungel, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Sikkim, appreciated the assistance of the Union Government through the National Ayush Mission and said, “The Government of Sikkim has been constantly working to ensure delivery of healthcare in all areas of the state and the NAM scheme has helped developing the integrative healthcare infrastructure in the state to greatly complement these efforts.”

    Speaking on the themes of the Conclave, Ms. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, shared key milestones: “Additionally, 5.6 crore beneficiaries have availed services at Ayush tertiary care institutions. NABH entry-level certification for 1,372 Ayush Health and Wellness Centres, and the establishment of 189 Integrated Ayush Hospitals reflect our commitment to quality and accessibility. ”

    A key highlight of the inaugural session was the release of the Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) on Metabolic Disorders in Ayush Systems of Medicine by the Hon’ble Union Minister and other dignitaries. Developed by the Ayush Vertical in collaboration with various Research Councils, these guidelines cover five major metabolic disorders—Diabetes Mellitus, Obesity, Gout, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), and Dyslipidemia. Vetted by Allopathic experts, the STGs integrate Yoga, disease-specific dietary protocols, and standardized clinical procedures to serve as a comprehensive reference for practitioners, educators, and primary healthcare providers across the country.

    The inaugural session was followed by a roundtable discussion among the participating Ayush/Health ministers from various states/UTs focused on the way forward for strengthening Ayush services in the country through NAM activities in their respective states. The session was chaired by Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Hon’ble Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush wherein the ministers and concerned officials from states and UTs exchanged their experiential wisdom while pointing out respective future strategies to address the challenges and negotiate the opportunities.

    During the program a special Y-Break session was also organised with enthusiastic participation from all led by Honourable Ministers and senior officials.

     

    About the National Ayush Mission (NAM):

    The flagship program National Ayush Mission launched in 2014 and it has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting India’s traditional systems of medicine and their integration into the mainstream healthcare system. It aims to enhance the availability, accessibility, and quality of Ayush healthcare services across the country through Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) as part of Government of India’s Ayushman Bharat scheme.

    In the last edition of NAM Conclave held in 2023, several key resolutions were adopted, including expansion of Ayush Health and Wellness Centres (now AAM-Ayush), integration of Ayush services with National Health Programs, and capacity building of Ayush practitioners. The 2025 edition aims to build upon these achievements, with renewed focus on innovation, standardisation, and international outreach.

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    MV/AKS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Post Payments Bank Reiterates its Commitment to the Labour Force of India, this Labour Day

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:22PM by PIB Delhi

    • IPPB introduced Antyodaya Shramik Suraksha Yojana in 2023, an affordable insurance scheme aimed at providing comprehensive coverage and protection to the unorganized sector workers.

    On the occasion of Labour Day, India Post Payments Bank reiterates its commitment to the welfare of Shramiks or labourers. IPPB launched the Antyodaya Shramik Suraksha Yojana (ASSY) for unorganised sector workers, a visionary and affordable insurance scheme aimed at providing comprehensive coverage and protection to the unorganized sector workers. The scheme was launched by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat on 8th July 2023 at Kheda, Gujarat.

    Since the inception of ASSY, a total of 6,97,531 policies have been issued to labourers or Shramiks. A total of 355 claims have been settled and claim amount of Rs. 5,41,17,754 has been disbursed. The scheme is being offered through IPPB & issued by its six insurance partners including New India Assurance, Bajaj Allianz general Insurance, TATA AIG General Insurance, Niva Bupa Health Insurance, Aditya Birla Health Insurance and Start Health.

    Sharing his thoughts on Labour Day, Mr. R. Viswesvaran, MD & CEO, India Post Payments Bank said “We are committed to the welfare and upliftment of labourers. For this reason, we had implemented the Antyodaya Shramik Suranksha Yojana for the labourers which has helped lakhs of Shramiks improve their quality of life and well-being”.

    With such initiatives IPPB strives to bring life changing experience and access to digital banking at the doorstep of every household of India. IPPB has been set up with the vision to build the most accessible, affordable and trusted bank for the common man in India. The fundamental mandate of India Post Payments Bank is to remove barriers for the unbanked & underbanked and reach the last mile leveraging the Postal network comprising ~1,65,000 Post Offices (~140,000 in rural areas) and ~3,00,000 Postal employees.

    About India Post Payments Bank

    India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) has been established under the Department of Posts, Ministry of Communication with 100% equity owned by Government of India. IPPB was launched on September 1, 2018. The bank has been set up with the vision to build the most accessible, affordable and trusted bank for the common man in India. The fundamental mandate of India Post Payments Bank is to remove barriers for the unbanked & underbanked and reach the last mile leveraging the Postal network comprising ~1,65,000 Post Offices (~140,000 in rural areas) and ~3,00,000 Postal employees.

    IPPB’s reach and its operating model is built on the key pillars of India Stack – enabling Paperless, Cashless and Presence-less banking in a simple and secure manner at the customers’ doorstep, through a CBS-integrated smartphone and biometric device. Leveraging frugal innovation and with a high focus on ease of banking for the masses, IPPB delivers simple and affordable banking solutions through intuitive interfaces available in 13 languages to 11 Crore customers across 5.57 lakh villages & towns in India.

    IPPB is committed to provide a fillip to a less cash economy and contribute to the vision of Digital India. India will prosper when every citizen will have equal opportunity to become financially secure and empowered. Our motto stands true – Every customer is important, every transaction is significant and every deposit is valuable.

     Reach us at:  www.ippbonline.com  marketing@ippbonline.in

    Social Media Handles:

    Twitter – https://twitter.com/IPPBOnline

    Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/ippbonline

    LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/indiapostpaymentsbank

    Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ippbonline

    YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@IndiaPostPaymentsBank

    ***

    Samrat/Allen

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: AI Meets Creativity: Industry Leaders Outline India’s Role in the Future of Digital Expression at WAVES 2025

    Source: Government of India

    AI Meets Creativity: Industry Leaders Outline India’s Role in the Future of Digital Expression at WAVES 2025

    “AI isn’t here to replace jobs—it’s a means to an end.” — Richard Kerris, NVIDIA

    “Creativity has transformed every industry.” — Shantanu Narayen, Adobe

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:52PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, May 1, 2025

     

    WAVES 2025 witnessed a convergence of innovation, creativity, and cutting-edge technology with Artificial Intelligence at the heart of the discourse. Three sessions held on the inaugural day of the Summit in Mumbai today, led by global industry figures, mapped the dynamic intersection of AI with media, storytelling, and digital production—reaffirming India’s rising stature in this creative-technological evolution.

    “Creativity has transformed every industry.” — Shantanu Narayen, Adobe

    In the keynote address on “Design, Media and Creativity in the Age of AI”, Adobe Chairman and CEO Shantanu Narayen offered an expansive perspective on the evolving creative economy. Tracing the digital journey from the internet to mobile and now to artificial intelligence, Narayen pointed to India’s growing role in content creation, with over 500 million Indians consuming online content and a significant shift towards regional languages.

    He stressed that AI is not replacing creativity but amplifying it. “Generative AI is enabling Indian creators to transcend traditional mediums,” he said, noting how it supports diverse storytelling across imaging, video, and design. From cinema to real-time mobile storytelling, the creative potential is expanding.

    Highlighting India’s unique position in building AI-powered frameworks—from applications to data infrastructure—Narayen outlined a four-fold strategy: supercharge creativity and production, innovate business models, lead an AI-skilled workforce, and foster entrepreneurship. He concluded by thanking the Government of India and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for creating a visionary platform through WAVES.

    “AI isn’t here to replace jobs—it’s a means to an end.” — Richard Kerris, NVIDIA

    In a thought-provoking fireside chat titled “AI Beyond Work”, Richard Kerris, Vice President at NVIDIA, and Vishal Dhupar, Managing Director, NVIDIA India, explored how AI is redefining personal computing and creative productivity.

    Reflecting on the evolution of the PC era, Dhupar remarked, “PCs used to sleep after office hours. But humans don’t.” He explained how NVIDIA’s early vision—imagining PCs as creative companions—now resonates in a world powered by AI.

    Kerris provided a historical view, recalling the complexities of mastering 3D animation in the past. “Now, with generative AI, we can go from idea to creation much faster,” he said. Yet, he cautioned against losing touch with fundamentals: “Just because we all have a camera on our phone doesn’t make us all great photographers.”

    The speakers agreed that AI enhances human creativity rather than replacing it. “AI puts tools in your hands—but knowing the craft, the basics, that’s still essential,” Kerris stressed. Dhupar concluded: “Creative people live their work. AI doesn’t replace that—it enables it.”

    “Bringing Stories to Life with Gen AI” — Anish Mukherjee, NVIDIA

    The third session, a masterclass by Anish Mukherjee, Solutions Architect at NVIDIA, focused on the practical applications of generative AI in media. Titled “Bringing Stories to Life with Gen AI”, the session spotlighted NVIDIA’s platform approach, moving beyond hardware to transformative tools.

    Mukherjee demonstrated AI-powered solutions including converting static images to digital humans, multilingual voice-overs, and audio-based character animation. Using NVIDIA’s Fugato model, he showcased AI-generated music and realistic lip-syncing for dubbing. He also introduced Cosmos, a suite of foundational models for video generation and simulation-based training via the Omniverse platform.

    Explaining the convergence of large language models with AI animation and DLSS, he noted their role in creating immersive storytelling experiences, especially in game development. “AI-powered characters that respond intelligently to players are redefining narrative engagement,” he said.

    Mukherjee closed with a call to harness compute power, rich datasets, and algorithmic strength to unlock generative AI’s full potential. NVIDIA’s open-source ecosystem, including Nemostack, empowers creators to develop custom models, furthering innovation across industries.

    WAVES 2025: Setting the Stage for AI-Led Creative Transformation

    As discussions unfolded across the sessions, a unifying message emerged—AI is a tool for empowerment, not replacement. Whether in design, film, animation, or storytelling, the future belongs to those who understand the basics, harness new tools responsibly, and build systems rooted in ethics, creativity, and inclusion. WAVES 2025 thus stands as a testament to India’s pivotal role in the global creative and technological landscape.

    ***

    TEAM PIB WAVES 2025 Rajith/Lekshmi Priya/Poushali/Edgar/Nikhitha/CShekhar |136

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary presides over the 69th Foundation Day of Directorate of Enforcement (ED), in New Delhi, today

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary presides over the 69th  Foundation Day of Directorate of Enforcement (ED), in New Delhi, today

    Contribution of Directorate of Enforcement will be extremely important in an economically secure India: MoS Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary

    Between 2014 to 2024, 5,113 new PMLA investigations initiated: ED Director Shri Rahul Navin

    ASG Shri S.V. Raju urges ED officers to stay abreast of changing ML scenarios and elaborated on using the various tools available under PMLA

    Shri Chaudhary also releases the ED Annual Report for FY 2024-25

    ED also confers 23 awards under various categories to its officers and Zonal Units

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 6:28PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary presided over the 69th Foundation Day of Directorate of Enforcement (ED) in New Delhi, today.

    Also present on the dais were Shri S.V. Raju, Additional Solicitor General; Shri Rahul Navin, Director, ED; Shri Subhash Aggarwal and Shri Prashant Kumar, Special Directors, ED; and Shri Naval Kishore Ram, Joint Secretary, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.

    The 69th Foundation Day celebrations were also attended by ex-Directors of ED; heads of various investigative agencies; international delegates from various organisations; all India officers of JD and above level; senior officials of Government of India; and also from Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.

    In his address on the occasion, Shri Chaudhary said, “The vision of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is that no economic offender should be able to deprive the common and poor citizens of their rights, and prevention is essential for this as well as ensuring that the offender receives appropriate punishment. The role of the Enforcement Directorate is extremely important in both areas.”

    Shri Chaudhary also stated that as India is marching towards achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the nature of the economy and economic activities will also change, and complexities will also increase, which might result in evolution of the nature of economic crimes. The Minister emphasised on the critical role the Enforcement Directorate will play in the future.

    “The vision of a developed India inherently includes the vision of a secure India. The contribution of the Enforcement Directorate will be extremely important in an economically secure India,” the Minister added.

    In his address on the occasion, Shri Navin emphasised on the significant step-up in enforcement activity from 2014 to 2024, with 5,113 new PMLA investigations were initiated averaging more than 500 cases per year. Building on this momentum, Shri Navin noted that in the Financial Year 2024-25, 775 new PMLA investigations were launched, 333 Prosecution Complaints were filed, leading to 34 individual convictions.

    During this period, Shri Navin said that ED has issued 461 provisional attachment orders valued at Rs. 30,036 crore – a 44% increase in the number of attachments and a striking 141% rise in their total value compared to the previous year. As on 31st March, 2025, the total value of assets under provisional attachment stood at Rs. 1,54,594 crore.

    Shri Navin also apprised the gathering that with the approval of the courts, restitution of Rs. 15,261 crore was done in 30 cases during F.Y. 2024-25 and this process is likely to accelerate in FY2025-26. 

    “The ED has filed 333 prosecution complaints last year, taking the total cases under various stage of trial to 1,739 as on 31st March, 2025; and of the 47 cases decided so far, there have been only 3 acquittals, yielding a commendable conviction rate of 93.6%,” Shri Navin added.

    In his address on the occasion, Shri S.V. Raju highlighted the growing use of cryptocurrency and hawala traders as tools for Money Laundering (ML) and urged the ED officers to stay abreast of the changing ML scenarios and elaborated on the tools under PMLA.

    On the occasion, Shri Chaudhary also released the Annual Report for FY 2024-25.

    CLICK HERE TO ACCESS ED ANNUAL REPORT FOR FY 2024-25

    During the celebrations, the officers of the ED were also conferred various awards under the following categories:

    1. President’s Medal for Meritorious Service: Shri Abhishek Goyal, former Special Director, ED, was handed over the President’s Medal for Meritorious Service on the occasion of Independence Day, 2024 for his exemplary investigation work.
    2. CATEGORY I: Rendering dutiful and exemplary service over a long period of time:

     

    1. Shri Sujit Sadhak, Joint Director, Chennai Zonal Office-II
    2. Shri Suram Chandra, Sepoy, Jammu Sub-Zonal Office

     

    1. CATEGORY II: Displaying exceptional intelligence gathering/investigation skills leading to successful search/seizure and post action:

     

    1. Shri Manoj Mittal, Deputy Director (INT-I), Headquarters Office
    2. Shri Sudhir Kumar, Deputy Director, Gurugram Zonal Office
    3. Shri Chetan Krishna H.G., Deputy Director, Gurugram Zonal Office
    4. Shri Deovrat Jha, Deputy Director, Kolkata Zonal Office-II
    5. Shri Gaurav Saini, Assistant Legal Advisor, Headquarters Office
    6. Shri Ravindra Dahiya, Assistant Director, Kolkata Zonal Office-I
    7. Shri Gaurav Dabas, Assistant Director, Co-ordination/ FATF
    8. Shri Anshul Roy, Assistant Director, Jaipur Zonal Office
    9. Shri Bhupesh, Assistant Director, Patna Zonal Office
    10. Ms. Suman, Assistant Director, Chandigarh Zonal Office-I
    11. Shri Bhola Ram Jaat, Enforcement Officer, Ahmedabad Zonal Office
    12. Ms. Deepika, Enforcement Officer, Western Regional Office
    13. Shri Ganpati K., Enforcement Officer, Southern Regional Office
    14. Shri Sagar Chauhan, Assistant Enforcement Officer, Chennai Zone-II
    15. Shri Vinod Kumar Pandey, Sr. Sepoy, Allahabad Sub-Zonal Office
    16. Shri Sunil Kumar S.K., Sr. Sepoy, STF, Headquarters Office
    17. Shri Abhishek Kumar Jha, Sepoy, Headquarters office

     

    1. CATEGORY III: Exhibiting extraordinary valour and courage without paying heed to their safety and security in the line of their duty:

     

    1. Jalandhar Zonal Office: Under the supervision of Shri Ravi Tiwari, Additional Director, the highest number of convictions have been secured by Jalandhar Zonal Office during the Financial year 2024-25.
    2. Hyderabad Zonal Office: Under the supervision of Shri Rohit Anand, Joint Director, the highest number of Prosecution Complaints were filed by Hyderabad Zonal Office during the Financial year 2024-25.
    3. Gurugram Zonal Office: Under the supervision of Shri Navaneet Agrawal, Joint Director, the highest value of properties were provisionally attached by Gurugram Zonal Office during the Financial year 2024-25.

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    NB/KMN

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Olympians Satwik-Chirag receive Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award from Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya

    Source: Government of India

    Olympians Satwik-Chirag receive Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award from Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya

    Union Minister Lauds Indian Pair’s Achievement; Says Standing on the Podium with the Tricolour is a Proud Moment for the Nation

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 6:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Olympians Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty received the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award from Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya in New Delhi today. The ace badminton pair, who reached the No. 1 rank in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) rankings in 2023 and clinched the Asian Games gold medal in Hangzhou, were shortlisted for the Khel Ratna award in 2023. However, they were unable to receive it due to tournament commitments at the time.

    Praising the current World No. 11 duo, the Dr. Mandaviya said: “Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna is the highest sporting honour of the country. Satwik and Chirag, both of you, have brought honour to the country by winning medals in international competitions through extraordinary skills and sheer hard work. When you stand on the podium along with the Tricolour to receive the prestigious medals, it not only an honour for you but for the entire nation. For raising the pride of the country and for enhancing the honour of the Tricolour, both of you have been honoured by the Khel Ratna.”

    Expressing his joy on receiving the Khel Ratna, Chirag Shetty said that the honour was long due. “Finally, we received it today. It was long due. It was announced in 2023. So, we are very happy to get the Khel Ratna from our honourable Sports Minister. The support from the Government of India has been tremendous since the time me and Satwik were paired together. All our big wins – whether becoming the World No. 1, winning Asian Games gold or clinching the Thomas Cup title – a lot of credit goes to the Indian government for their continuous support.”

    Echoing the sentiments, Satwik said: “We couldn’t go to the Rashtrapati Bhavan to receive the Khel Ratna award last year. Finally, to get it now is a huge boost for our confidence as we are going off-track and not playing for the next few months. It motivates us to get back and do well in the upcoming tournaments. The government is playing a huge role as the youngsters today are being supported through a lot many schemes and initiatives – Khelo India, Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) etc. Intially, when I and Chirag started playing we struggled financially. Later, government came to our support and there was no looking back.”

    The Indian pair finished on the podium twice – at the Malaysia Open and India Open in New Delhi – this January to begin their season on a decent note. However, niggles and minor injuries have pegged them back. Their next assignment is the Singapore Open (May 27 – June 1) and Indonesia Open (June 3-8).

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    Manish Gautam/Divyanshu Kumar

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DoSJE-UNDP Agreement signed to enable Improved Access to Finance and Relevant Technologies, along with Safe and Sustainable Work Environment

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

    On the occasion of Labour Day 2025, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) has taken a landmark step by signing a Letter of Agreement (LoA) with UNDP, for recognizing and strengthening the wastepickers’ contribution in waste collection, recovery and recycling. The initiative would be providing them improved access to finance and relevant technologies along with safe and sustainable work environment.

    The LoA was exchanged between Dr. Angela Lusigi, Resident Representative for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in India and Shri Amit Yadav, Secretary, Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE). Smt. Yogita Swaroop, Sr. Economic Advisor, DoSJE, and Shri P.K. Singh, Managing Director, National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC), were also present at the LoA signing ceremony.

    The UNDP has stepped forward to provide crucial financial support for the establishment of State Project Management Units (PMUs) across various States under the NAMASTE Scheme. This strategic intervention by UNDP will significantly streamline coordination between Central authorities and State governments, ensuring more effective and timely implementation of the scheme’s objectives thereby improving  outcomes for all stakeholders involved in the scheme.

    Wastepickers have been added as a component under the National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Scheme from the financial year 2024. NAMASTE is being implemented by MoSJE for broadening the formal inclusion of waste pickers across India, with an aim to enumerate 2,50,000 waste pickers nationwide.

    The NAMASTE Scheme’s wastepicker component aims to enumerate and recognize them through a nationwide digital profiling and registration drive. The focus is to provide occupational photo ID cards to ensure formal identity and access to government benefits. It aims to offer health insurance coverage under Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY, skill upgradation training, provision of PPE kits, and capital subsidies for waste collection vehicles. It will also facilitate the formation and strengthening of wastepicker collectives, enabling them to manage Decentralized Waste Collection Centers (DWCCs) and improve their livelihoods.

    Since the scheme’s rollout, over 5,000 wastepickers have been profiled across multiple States, marking a significant milestone in the formal recognition and integration of this workforce. The profiling is being carried out using a dedicated NAMASTE mobile application, ensuring a robust and accessible database for extending scheme benefits.

    *****

    VM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: SkyCrest Capital Launches SkyAlpha X 2.0 AI System and Innovative SkyFund Protocol (SKF)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Denver, CO, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SkyCrest Capital, a global fintech innovator headquartered in Manhattan, today announced the official launch of its next-generation artificial intelligence system, SkyAlpha X 2.0, along with the unveiling of its decentralized finance infrastructure, the SkyFund Protocol (SKF). Together, these breakthroughs mark a new chapter in the evolution of asset management—uniting artificial intelligence, blockchain, and decentralized governance into one intelligent financial ecosystem.

    Founded in 2019 by Nathaniel Ross, a financial and tech visionary with experience at Goldman Sachs and Bridgewater Associates, SkyCrest Capital has quickly risen to prominence. SkyCrest Capital, established in 2019, is a global fintech leader, blending artificial intelligence with asset management, based in New York. The firm provides high-net-worth clients with strategies in equities, cryptocurrencies, and DeFi, managing $1.2 billion in assets while adhering to SEC and MSB compliance standards. This robust regulatory backing ensures global market credibility, offering clients a secure and reliable investment environment. Serving over 600 high-net-worth clients worldwide, SkyCrest operates offices in New York, Singapore, and Dubai, delivering smart equity trading, crypto quant contracts, family office planning, and multi-market arbitrage strategies.

    The driving force behind SkyCrest’s success is its SkyAlpha X AI system, fully upgraded to version 2.0 in 2025, which revolutionizes traditional finance by eliminating reliance on human intuition. SkyAlpha X 2.0 integrates on-chain data, social media sentiment, and macroeconomic signals, dramatically enhancing market prediction accuracy and precision.

    SkyCrest’s latest breakthrough, SkyFund Protocol (SKF), launched in 2025 on the Solana blockchain, positions itself as a bridge between TradFi and DeFi. With a total supply of 1 billion tokens, SKF enables global investors to stake USDT, ETH, or BTC, participate in SkyAlpha X 2.0-driven trading strategies, and share profits and governance rights. Users can bind strategy nodes to unlock premium signals and exclusive asset pools, reaping periodic dividends. SKF’s smart oracles and AI-driven rhythm validation optimize strategy triggers, minimizing market noise and ensuring execution efficiency, fully showcasing the high-precision capabilities of version 2.0.

    SkyCrest’s success hinges on its world-class team. Founder Nathaniel Ross, guided by his “cognition over profit” ethos, drives the SkyAlpha Financial Education Program, empowering young traders and clients. Chief AI Scientist Dr. Elena Chen leads SkyAlpha X algorithm development, Chief Investment Officer James Whitaker excels in multi-asset management, and Head of Client Relations and Assistant Audrey Sinclair ensures personalized service for 600 clients. All strategy data and profit distributions are openly shared, reflecting SkyCrest’s commitment to transparency.

    Looking ahead, SkyCrest aims to position SkyFund Protocol as the world’s leading decentralized asset management platform. By 2026, the firm plans to launch AI strategy NFTs, enabling strategy authorization trading, and integrate with ETFs and real-world assets (RWA) for on-chain mapping. SkyAlpha X’s next-generation upgrade (Alpha 3.0) will introduce even sharper sentiment modeling, collaborating with DePIN and AI Agents to power cross-platform strategy execution. SkyCrest’s vision extends beyond wealth creation—it seeks to build a smart, transparent, and inclusive financial ecosystem, ensuring every investor benefits from AI and blockchain’s transformative potential.

    SkyCrest Capital’s success is anchored by its world-class team. Founder Nathaniel Ross, guided by his “cognition over profit” philosophy, champions the SkyAlpha Financial Education Program, empowering young traders and clients. Chief AI Scientist Dr. Elena Chen spearheads SkyAlpha X algorithm development, Chief Investment Officer James Whitaker excels in multi-asset management, and Head of Client Relations and Assistant Audrey Sinclair ensures personalized service for 600 clients. All strategy data and profit distributions are shared openly, reflecting SkyCrest’s unwavering commitment to transparency.

    Looking ahead, SkyCrest Capital aims to position SkyFund Protocol as the world’s premier decentralized asset management platform. By 2026, the firm plans to launch AI strategy NFTs, enabling authorized strategy trading, and integrate with ETFs and real-world assets (RWA) for on-chain mapping. SkyAlpha X’s next-generation upgrade (Alpha 3.0) will introduce sharper sentiment modeling, collaborating with DePIN and AI Agents to empower cross-platform strategy execution. SkyCrest’s vision extends beyond wealth creation—it seeks to build a smart, transparent, and inclusive financial ecosystem, ensuring every investor reaps the benefits of AI and blockchain innovation.

    SkyCrest Capital invites global investors to join this financial revolution. For more information, contact our teams in Manhattan, Singapore, or Dubai, or visit our website to explore our innovative journey.

    About SkyCrest Capital SkyCrest Capital is a global fintech leader, blending artificial intelligence with asset management, headquartered in New York. The firm serves high-net-worth clients with equity, crypto, and DeFi strategies, managing $1.2 billion in assets with a global presence.

    Company Name: SkyCrest Capital
    Website: https://www.skyskinla.com/
    Contact: Audrey Sinclair
    Email: service(at)skyskinla.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson Commemorates May Day in Chicago

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jonathan Jackson – Illinois (1st District)

    Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL 01) Commemorates May Day in Chicago

    May 1, 2025 – Chicago, IL

    Today, we honor “May Day”—International Workers’ Day—a moment of reflection, resistance, and recommitment to the labor movement’s enduring fight for dignity, equity, and justice.

    May Day has deep roots in Chicago’s history. In 1886, tens of thousands of workers took to our city’s streets demanding an eight-hour workday, culminating in the tragic Haymarket Affair. The courage of those early organizers, who faced brutal repression simply for asserting their humanity, sparked a global movement. That history is not distant to me; it is personal. I was raised in a home where the fight for workers’ rights, civil rights, and economic justice were inseparable. My father, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, marched with striking workers and championed their cause alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who gave his life in Memphis while supporting sanitation workers demanding fair wages and respect.

    Nearly 140 years after Haymarket, the struggle continues. In 2025, over 60% of American workers still live paycheck to paycheck, and more than 30 million workers in the U.S. earn less than $15 an hour. While CEO pay has risen by over 1,200% since 1978, compared to just 15% growth in average worker wages. The gig economy, corporate union-busting, and attacks on collective bargaining threaten to erode the progress generations have fought to build. In Illinois alone, tens of thousands of low-wage workers, particularly Black, Latino, and immigrant communities, continue to face unsafe conditions, wage theft, and systemic inequality.

    That is why I stand in full solidarity with the workers of Chicago and beyond who are mobilizing today for a living wage, safe workplaces, healthcare, and the right to organize without fear.

    May Day is not just about honoring the past. It is about defending the present and building a future where every worker, no matter their job, immigration status, or zip code, is treated with dignity. I applaud the labor unions, grassroots organizers, and everyday people who are showing up today and every day to demand that America live up to its promise.

    On this May Day, I renew my commitment in Congress to champion the PRO Act, fight for a federal living wage, ensure universal paid family and medical leave, and protect the sacred right to organize.

    An injury to one is an injury to all. The labor movement is the heartbeat of democracy.

    In unity and struggle,

    Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson
    Illinois’s First Congressional District

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Announces Legislation to Lower Taxes for Hardworking New Mexicans

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Senate Democrats Introduce Tax Breaks for Working Families While GOP Pushes Tax Scam for Nation’s Wealthiest

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M), a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, cosponsored the Tax Cut for Workers Act, legislation to give thousands of New Mexicans a much-needed tax break. The bill would make permanent the American Rescue Plan Act’s expansions of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), continuing one of the largest-ever tax breaks for the middle class.

    The American Rescue Plan Act, which Senator Luján championed into law, made several critical expansions of the EITC, including nearly tripling the maximum EITC benefit for workers without children from roughly $540 to roughly $1,500 and raising the income limit from about $16,000 to $21,000 for single filers and from about $22,000 to $27,000 for married filers. It also made individuals aged 19 to 24 and 65 and older newly eligible for the credit. While the American Rescue Plan’s EITC provisions expired the end of 2021, they had a significant impact, increasing disposable income among America’s working families.

    “As President Trump’s reckless economic agenda continues to increase costs, we must find ways to make life more affordable for hardworking New Mexicans,” said Senator Luján. “That is why I am cosponsoring the Tax Cut for Workers Act to bring a tax break for New Mexicans that need it most. I am committed to lowering costs and will fight so that hardworking New Mexicans – who contribute to our economy – are the beneficiaries of any tax break, not the nation’s wealthiest.”

    The Tax Cut for Workers Act will cut taxes for 111,000 New Mexicans by expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit to workers without children. The bill also extends eligibility for the tax cut to workers under the age of 25 and over the age of 64.

    In addition to Senator Luján, the legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    The full text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Tillis, Smucker, Sewell Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Americans Save for Retirement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    Bipartisan, bicameral Retirement Savings for Americans Act would make saving for retirement attainable for American workers

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Thom Tillis and Representatives Lloyd Smucker and Terri Sewell reintroduced the Retirement Savings for Americans Act (RSAA) to help working Americans build wealth and save for retirement.

    “Americans who work hard their entire lives deserve to retire with dignity,” said Hickenlooper. “This bill helps low-income workers enjoy a secure retirement and fulfill their American dream.’’

    “Roughly 50 million Americans lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan, which represents a significant roadblock to achieving financial security for their retirement,” said Tillis. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act tackles this real problem by establishing a pathway for savings for Americans lacking retirement options.”

    “Too many hard-working Americans are not able to prepare financially for retirement. Over half of working employees lack access to the tax-advantaged retirement benefits that many higher-income earners take advantage of to save. Additionally, as the workforce continues to innovate and more Americans become categorized as “gig workers,” the reliance on traditional employer-sponsored plans causes too many workers to slip through the cracks. Hard-working Americans deserve a modern pathway to find financial security in their retirement. I am proud to join in this bipartisan and bicameral effort to advance the Retirement Savings for Americans Act, to help millions of Americans save for their retirements. I will continue to advocate for policies which help hard workers live their American Dream, including a well-earned and financially stable retirement,” said Smucker.

    “Every Alabamian and every American should be able to retire with dignity after a lifetime of work,” said Sewell. “Democrats and Republicans alike recognize the urgent need for Congress to address the gaps in our retirement system and make it easier for low- and middle-income workers to save for retirement. I am proud to once again work with my House and Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance the Retirement Savings for Americans Act which would level the playing field for working families and build a stronger economy for all Americans.”

    The bill would establish a new program that gives eligible workers access to portable, tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts. It would also allow the federal government to match contributions for low- and middle-income workers, with the match beginning to phase out at median income.

    “Nearly 1 out of 4 Americans has no retirement savings, and more than half of all Americans report they are concerned they will not achieve financial security in retirement. We know that Americans are much more likely to save when they have access to retirement savings options at work. Today nearly half of all private-sector employees do not have access to an employer-sponsored retirement savings program. The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would help more families across the country save for retirement,” said Bill Sweeney, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, AARP.

    “Creating this kind of program meets an obligation we all share to help every working American build financial security and well-being in retirement. I also know it will offset future support we surely would have to provide if we don’t help more people begin to build that security today. And in true American spirit, it isn’t a giveaway, but an incentive for working individuals to begin helping themselves and their families,” Charles R. Schwab, Founder and Chairman, Charles Schwab Corporation.

    “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would create a healthier retirement system, a more financially secure workforce, and a stronger economy for all Americans,” said John Lettieri, President and CEO, Economic Innovation Group. “By ensuring that all workers — regardless of their employer or income — have the opportunity and incentives to build long-term financial security, the RSAA would boost the wealth of the working class and significantly reduce the strain on the social safety net over time. EIG is proud to have worked closely with Senators Hickenlooper and Tillis and Representatives Smucker and Sewell on this important legislation, and we applaud them for their bipartisan leadership on behalf of American workers.”

    Specifically, the Retirement Savings for Americans Act contains the following provisions:

    • Eligibility and Auto Enrollment: Full- and part-time workers who lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan would be eligible for an account, and they would be automatically enrolled, contributing 3% of their income. They could choose to increase or decrease their withholding, or opt out entirely at any time. Independent workers (including gig workers) would also be eligible.
    • Federal Contribution: Low- and moderate-income workers would be eligible for a 1% automatic contribution (as long as they remain employed) and up to a 4% matching contribution via a refundable federal tax credit. This would begin to phase out at median income.
    • Portability: Accounts would remain attached to workers throughout their lifetimes, and workers would be able to stop and start contributions at will.
    • Private Assets: The accounts would be the property of the worker and the assets could be passed down to future generations to help them build wealth and financial security.
    • Investment Options: Much like the current Thrift Savings Plan, participants would be given a menu of simple, low-fee investment options to choose from, including lifecycle funds tied to a worker’s estimated retirement date, or index funds made of stocks and bonds.

    View a one-page explainer of the bill HERE.

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Questions Commerce Deputy Sec Nominee on Drastic NOAA Cuts: “We Are Going to Hold This Administration Accountable.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    05.01.25

    Cantwell Questions Commerce Deputy Sec Nominee on Drastic NOAA Cuts: “We Are Going to Hold This Administration Accountable.”

    At committee hearing, Cantwell takes Dabbar to task over admin’s decision to slash 2.5K employees from NOAA NOAA’s core functions like weather forecasting, predicting climate change impacts, and fishery stock assessments are crucial to the PNW

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, grilled Paul Dabbar – President Trump’s nominee to serve as Deputy Secretary of Commerce – on the administration’s plans to gut the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) during a hearing before the Commerce committee.

    “The Department continues to slash essential workers at NOAA, with approximately 2,500 employees of the 12,000-person workforce fired or otherwise departing since the start of this administration. These staffing shortages are already impacting NOAA’s core functions, including reduced and suspended weather balloon launches at many of our weather forecast offices — and I can’t tell you how important this is for us, particularly related to fire season, these NOAA weather activities are giving us essential data about how best to prepare for fire season — and further cuts are expected in the coming weeks.

    “On top of that, the Trump administration is pursuing a 2026 budget proposal that would reduce NOAA’s budget by more than 27%, including a 75% cut to the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, the closures of all its weather climate labs, and an 85% cut to the Office of Space Commerce.

    “I can tell you this, Mr. Dabbar, as somebody who ran a science organization, that we are going to hold this administration accountable for the cuts in science. It is not acceptable. Innovation is the way we’re going to grow our economy. It is the way we are going to protect our industries that exist today.

    “At the same time, the administration is calling for major reorganizations of NOAA, including moving part of the National [Marine Fisheries] Service to the Department of Interior. I’m not sure why the most important management resource we have for our fisheries, having our science management system, we would give up to the Department of Interior.

    “I’m particularly shocked to see this proposal, given that Mr. Lutnick promised to me during this confirmation hearing that ‘I have no interest in separating NOAA.’ And that breaking up NOAA ‘is not on my agenda.’ What changed?” Sen. Cantwell said.

    In February, Sen. Cantwell voted against confirming Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, citing – among other issues – his “tepid support” for NOAA. She then sent a letter to Lutnick directly following his confirmation calling on him to exempt the National Weather Service (NWS) from the federal hiring freeze, and protect all NOAA workers from firings “that would jeopardize the safety of the American public.”

    NOAA provides critical services to the nation including weather forecasts, extreme storm tracking and monitoring, tools to enable communities to adapt to sea level rise and climate change, supporting fisheries management, and conserving marine mammals and other protected species.

    Sen. Cantwell is a champion of NOAA and helped secure $3.3 billion in NOAA investments in the Inflation Reduction Act to help communities prepare for and adapt to climate change, boost science needed to understand changing weather and climate patterns, and invest in advanced computer technologies that are critical for extreme weather prediction and emergency response. Her Fire Ready Nation Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen NOAA’s ability to help forecast, prevent, and fight wildfires, passed the Commerce committee unanimously earlier this year and now heads to the full Senate for consideration.

    Video of Sen. Cantwell’s remarks in the hearing today can be watched HERE; audio is HERE; and a transcript is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Applauds House Passage of Resolutions to Repeal California’s Radical EV Mandate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, applauded the House of Representatives’ passage of joint resolutions of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to repeal California’s EV waivers that prohibit the sale of new gas-powered light-duty vehicles by 2035, and set unrealistic and stringent requirements for heavy-duty trucks and heavy-duty diesel engines. Chairman Capito and U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) have introduced identical resolutions in the Senate.

    “I congratulate my House colleagues for taking this important step towards eliminating the radical California waivers and displaying the bipartisan support behind reversing the EV mandate. We know these rules would not only eliminate consumer choice, but also create harmful impacts across multiple sectors of our economy that would lead to major job losses felt far outside of California. I continue to work with my colleagues and Senate Republican leadership to address all options available in the Senate to repeal these rules,” Chairman Capito said.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Freedom in an age of climate crisis and trade wars: Lessons from philosopher Immanuel Kant

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Rafael Ziegler, Professor, Department of Managment, HEC Montréal

    A decade ago, the majority of nations committed to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, pledging to “leave no one behind” by 2030 and reach net-zero emissions globally by 2050.

    Ten years on, the sentiment regarding such aspirations is skeptical and the mood gloomy. With the rise of autocracies and the influence of libertarian tech-billionaires on politics, goals such as development for all and climate neutrality seem to be relics of the past.

    The United States, the most powerful country in the world, is at the heart of this shift. In 1776, the U.S. declared independence and was founded on the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. Today, however, it is increasingly known for its disregard of life, legislative attacks on civil liberties and creating global insecurity through tariffs.

    In the midst of all this, it’s important to remember ours is not the first generation to face dark times. As my recent research argues, Immanuel Kant’s philosophy can offer us valuable tools for navigating today’s challenges.

    Kant’s vision of possible progress

    A painted portrait of German philosopher and Enlightenment thinker Immanuel Kant circa 1790.
    (Wikimedia Commons)

    In 1776, the same year the U.S. was founded, Kant was preparing his breakthrough critical philosophy and lecturing on freedom and pragmatic anthropology, all while living in the absolutist monarchy of Prussia.

    At the time, Prussia was using its military to expand its territory and enforce internal colonization over land and peoples.

    Amid this, Kant observed the contradictions of human nature — people who acted both good and bad, cruel and respectful of others — and described humanity as “crooked timber.” Yet Kant insisted on viewing this “crooked timber” through the lens of freedom.

    At the centre of Kant’s universalist, freedom-focused vision for the future was the idea of a world where all people lived in dignity. It is focused on autonomy as the capacity to self-legislate. Freedom served as his North Star for what is today called “backcasting,” or thinking backward from a desired future to identify possible paths toward achieving it.




    Read more:
    Explainer: the ideas of Kant


    In this spirit, Kant observed the rise of competitive markets that rewarded selfishness and greed, and argued that law and international co-operation — what he called a federation of republics — could turn antagonism into springs of progress. In other words, he analyzed the discord and conflict of his present for signs of possible progress.

    Crucial for the identification of such possibilities was the freedom of public reason: people thinking for themselves and contributing to public debate.

    Thinking long-term about freedom

    What can we learn from Kant about navigating today’s multiple crises?

    First, focus on freedom from a long-term perspective. The current trade war will likely reduce economic growth, but they may also advance the re-regionalization of economies — an idea long supported by post-growth economists seeking sustainable prosperity.

    However, regional production is not inherently good. Rather, we need a public discussion about which essential goods — food, for example — are best mostly supplied regionally, by whom and where international co-operation is called for.

    The climate crisis requires plans not fixes

    Second, Kant’s insights remind us that freedom must be pursued within the reality of a shared, finite planet. Climate change is not a problem that can be solved overnight. Emissions don’t care about the threats and angry fits of autocrats. It’s a global, complex challenge that requires long-term planning processes.

    There are signs of progress in this regard: in 2024, the United Kingdom reported greenhouse gas emissions to be at their lowest levels since 1872 thanks to long-term planning. Canada, after opting out of the Kyoto Protocol in 2011, finally saw emissions start to fall in 2025 following a renewed commitment to international climate goals and planning.

    But this progress is fragile. The chaos of Trump’s tariff wars must not lead our politicians and policymakers to prioritize short-term economic and political gains over long-term climate strategies.

    Prime Minister Mark Carney and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s support for pipelines, for instance, is at odds with evidence that fossil fuel expansion will lock in emissions.

    It also diverts public money away from cheaper sources of renewable energy and supporting citizens through a just energy transition. With trade wars and economic insecurity, inflation will likely increase costs of living. This will hit poorer households harder, making this a matter of both environmental and social justice.

    Rebuilding the public sphere

    Third, for Kant, current lifestyle expectations are no guide for the core of future freedom. So if the American treasury secretary asserts that “cheap goods are not part of the American dream,” can we, paradoxically, detect an unexpected sign of possible progress?

    The answer is yes — if we take that example as evidence that worthwhile aspirations cannot be captured by consumerism but call for a more sustained effort.

    While modern consumers are willing to make big efforts — such as for daily gym and running routines — can similar energy be released to collective dreams of progress and saving the planet? For Kant, future freedom requires seeing beyond individual to collective aspirations. This relies on shared goals that can be articulated through foresight and supported by a vibrant, critical public sphere.

    In Kant’s time, the public sphere mainly consisted of the Republic of Letters, a network made of intellectuals and writers in the late 17th and 18th centuries engaging in open debate.

    Today, by contrast, much of our communication takes place on social media platforms that prioritize short-form formats, reward anger over analysis and are owned by a few global corporations structured to maximize profits rather than the quality of public deliberation. To counter this trend, regionally diverse, independent news providers are needed along with decentralized, open source social media.

    But above all, in an era of climate crisis, political polarization and economic instability, Kant reminds us of what he called a “Denkungsart:” an “art of thinking” or mindset based on freedom and possibility in a long-term perspective.

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

    ref. Freedom in an age of climate crisis and trade wars: Lessons from philosopher Immanuel Kant – https://theconversation.com/freedom-in-an-age-of-climate-crisis-and-trade-wars-lessons-from-philosopher-immanuel-kant-254442

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Peters, Cassidy Announce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen the Resiliency of U.S. Power Grids

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) announced new bipartisan legislation to strengthen the resiliency of power grids across the country. The senators’ Preventing Power Outages Act would reauthorize two U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grant programs that help states and utilities invest in modernizing their grid infrastructure to ensure the power stays on even in the face of extreme weather and natural disasters. The bill would also update these programs to ensure that sufficient funding goes to states whose grids are least reliable and require the most investment.  

    “Thousands of Michigan households lost power for weeks on end after the catastrophic ice storm that recently hit Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, and our dedicated lineman are still working to fully restore power in some communities. This devastating storm was just one of many severe weather events in recent years that significantly disrupted our electrical grid and, as a result, risked the safety of Michiganders. It’s clear that our power infrastructure is in dire need of upgrades in order to keep our residents safe, keep energy costs down, and meet the growing demands of our communities,” said Senator Peters. “I’m leading this bipartisan bill to help ensure Michigan can access the federal resources we need to strengthen our power grid to reduce outages, improve reliability, and deliver affordable power to every Michigan household.” 

    “I was at an event this week where President Trump emphasized the need for growth and power generation to fuel our future economy. He specifically spoke of the problems with our grid,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This is one more step in addressing those problems that President Trump was speaking of.”

    Many states, including Michigan and Louisiana, are in need of long-term, strategic investment to improve the resiliency of their grid infrastructure and deliver reliable power to households and businesses. However, without federal assistance, grid repair costs often ultimately fall to the very consumers that are being impacted by rising energy rates, poor reliability, and long service restoration times. 

    The Preventing Power Outages Act would reauthorize and update DOE’s Grid Resilience State/Tribal Formula Grants Program and Grid Resilience Utility and Industry Grants Program – which have spurred historic investment in much-needed grid improvements in recent years but are set to expire in 2026. Funding from these programs can be used for undergrounding electrical equipment, utility pole management, relocating power lines, and more. It can also be used to acquire innovative technologies including weatherization equipment, fire-resistant technologies, and fire prevention systems. Without reauthorization, states that require significant grid upgrades could go without the necessary investments to address ongoing challenges. The senators’ legislation aims to protect these critical federal resources and ensure Americans across the country have access to safe, reliable, and affordable power. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Leads Introduction of the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act to Protect Vermont Waterways

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Vermont Congressional Delegation, U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and U.S. Representative Becca Balint (VT-At Large) this week reintroduced the bicameral Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act. This bill would protect the ecological, recreational, and economic value of Northern Vermont waterways by commissioning a study to determine whether the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream could be included in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.  “Keeping Vermont’s rivers healthy is crucial to the success of our outdoor recreation and tourism industries. We’re proud to once again introduce this legislation as a Delegation help protect our State’s natural beauty and boost our economy,” said the Vermont Congressional Delegation. “This bill is an important step forward in preserving and protecting the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream for future generations of Vermonters to enjoy.”  The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System protects free-flowing rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, or recreational value. Since its creation in 1968, the system has grown to encompass more than 13,400 miles of rivers across the country, including segments of the Missisquoi and Trout Rivers in Vermont. Depending on their characteristics, rivers may be classified as wild, scenic, or recreational. Wild and Scenic rivers are managed to maintain their free-flowing condition, high water quality, and outstanding recreational opportunities, from rafting to fishing. 
    The Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act is supported by a broad coalition of local municipalities, cultural and regional organizations, and environmental conservation groups, including American Rivers, the Connecticut River Joint Commission, Connecticut River Conservancy, Essex County Conservation District, Nature Conservancy, Northeastern Vermont Development Association, Northern Forest Canoe Trail, Nulhegan Band of the Coosuk – Abenaki Nation, Trout Unlimited (including the David and Francis Smith Northeast Kingdom Chapter), Vermont Chapter of the Native Fish Coalition, and the Vermont River Conservancy.  Last Congress, Senator Welch led the Vermont Congressional Delegation in introducing the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2023, which was passed out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources with bipartisan support. In December 2024, the Senate unanimously passed the Delegation’s bill.  Learn more about the Nulhegan River and Paul Stream Wild and Scenic River Study Act of 2025. 
    Read the full text of the bill.  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: The Search Is on for 2025’s Most Investible Canadian Cleantech Ventures

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Foresight Canada is now accepting applications for its fifth annual Foresight 50, a comprehensive spotlight on the 50 most investible cleantech companies across Canada to investors around the world. The initiative highlights companies with solutions to tackle the world’s biggest environmental and economic challenges.

    Since 2021, the Foresight 50 program has been instrumental in connecting promising Canadian cleantech ventures with a global network of investors, ensuring crucial injections of capital to multiply the impact of their solutions. Collectively, past honourees have raised over $2.25B in capital, fueling the growth of innovative solutions that enhance productivity in key global industries and accelerate Canada’s transition to a prosperous future economy.

    Companies selected for the Foresight 50 will benefit from:

    • Investor networking: Opportunities to connect with relevant investment firms.
    • International public relations: Increased visibility through Foresight-led media campaign.
    • Participation in the Foresight 50 Showcase: An in-person celebration for networking and investor connections.
    • Invite-only Investor Forum: Exclusive access to networking and panel sessions on the future of cleantech capital.

    Foresight 50’s panel of judges is composed of leading cleantech investors, including: Olivia Hornby (Spring Impact Capital), Moien Giashi (GreenSky Ventures), Cheri Corbett (BDC), Nikhil Nayer (Rogue Insight Capital), and Dania Moazzam (RBCx). These investors will select this year’s 50 ventures based on their investability, potential economic and job growth impact, leadership team, environmental impact, and probability of success. Winners will be announced at the ceremony in Calgary, November 2025.

    Who Should Apply?

    Canadian cleantech ventures with strong leadership, a clear growth trajectory, and a bold vision for environmental and economic impact. Foresight is looking for:

    • Companies across all cleantech sectors—from clean energy and sustainable agriculture to carbon capture and beyond.
    • Ventures at any funding stage, from seed to post-Series B.
    • Teams seeking strategic connections with international investors.
    • Innovators looking for visibility, credibility, and accelerated growth on the global stage.

    Submit your application by June 30, 2025.

    Quotes

    “Marking our fifth year of celebrating cleantech through our Foresight 50 underscores a vital reality: shining a bold spotlight on groundbreaking Canadian innovation is crucial now more than ever. Their ingenuity is beyond inspiring; they are the engine driving clean productivity across our nation, building a stronger and more sustainable future economy for Canada and the world.” —Jeanette Jackson, CEO, Foresight Canada

    About Foresight Canada:

    Foresight Canada helps the world do more with less, sustainably. As Canada’s largest cleantech innovation and adoption accelerator, they connect public and private sectors to the world’s best clean technologies, de-risking and simplifying the adoption of innovative solutions that improve productivity, profitability, and economic competitiveness, all while addressing today’s most urgent climate challenges.

    The 2025 Foresight 50 Showcase is presented by Foresight Canada and Export Development Canada (EDC). Media sponsor: Carbon Life Media.

    Image: 2024 Foresight 50 Honourees, Carbon Life Media.

    Heather Kingdon
    Communications Manager
    Foresight Canada
    hkingdon@foresightcac.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/03d7b8db-fd67-4010-b7f9-793e643e7fc3

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: The United States Files False Claims Act Complaint Against Three National Health Insurance Companies and Three Brokers Alleging Unlawful Kickbacks and Discrimination Against Disabled Americans

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The United States filed a complaint today under the False Claims Act (FCA) against three of the nation’s largest health insurance companies — Aetna Inc. and affiliates, Elevance Health Inc. (formerly known as Anthem), and Humana Inc. — and three large insurance broker organizations — eHealth, Inc. and an affiliate, GoHealth, Inc., and SelectQuote Inc. The United States alleges that from 2016 through at least 2021, the defendant insurers paid hundreds of millions of dollars in illegal kickbacks to the defendant brokers in exchange for enrollments into the insurers’ Medicare Advantage plans.

    Under the Medicare Advantage (MA) Program, also known as Medicare Part C, Medicare beneficiaries may choose to enroll in health care plans (MA plans) offered by private insurance companies, such as defendants Aetna, Anthem, and Humana. Many Medicare beneficiaries rely on insurance brokers to help them choose an MA plan that best meets their individual needs. Rather than acting as unbiased stewards, the defendant brokers allegedly directed Medicare beneficiaries to the plans offered by insurers that paid brokers the most in kickbacks, regardless of the suitability of the MA plans for the beneficiaries. According to the complaint, the broker organizations incentivized their employees and agents to sell plans based on the insurers’ kickbacks, set up teams of insurance agents who could sell only those plans, and at times refused to sell MA plans of insurers who did not pay sufficient kickbacks.

    The United States further alleges that Aetna and Humana each conspired with the broker defendants to discriminate against Medicare beneficiaries with disabilities whom they perceived to be less profitable. Aetna and Humana allegedly did so by threatening to withhold kickbacks to pressure brokers to enroll fewer disabled Medicare beneficiaries in their plans. The United States alleges that, in response to these financial incentives from Aetna and Humana, the defendant brokers or their agents rejected referrals of disabled beneficiaries and strategically directed disabled beneficiaries away from Aetna and Humana plans.

    “Health care companies that attempt to profit from kickbacks will be held accountable,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Michael Granston of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We are committed to rooting out illegal practices by Medicare Advantage insurers and insurance brokers that undermine the interests of federal health care programs and the patients they serve.”

    “It is concerning, to say the least, that Medicare beneficiaries were allegedly steered towards plans that were not necessarily in their best interest – but rather in the best interest of the health insurance companies,” said U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley for the District of Massachusetts. “The alleged efforts to drive beneficiaries away specifically because their disabilities might make them less profitable to health insurance companies are even more unconscionable. Profit and greed over beneficiary interest is something we will continue to investigate and prosecute aggressively. This office will continue to take decisive action to protect the rights of Medicare beneficiaries and vulnerable Americans.”

    The lawsuit was originally filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the FCA. Under the FCA, private parties can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the recovery. The FCA permits the United States to intervene in and take over the action, as it has done here. If a defendant is found liable for violating the FCA, the United States may recover three times the amount of its losses plus applicable penalties.

    The Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts are handling the matter, with valuable assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General and the FBI.  The case is captioned United States ex rel. Shea v. eHealth, et al., No. 21-cv-11777.

    Trial Attorneys David G. Miller, Anna H. Jugo, Diana E. Curtis, and Sara B. Hanson of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles Weinograd and Julien Mundele for the District of Massachusetts are handling the matter.

    The investigation and prosecution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud.  One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the FCA.  Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to HHS at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    The claims asserted in the complaint are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability. 

    Note: Read the complaint here

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: The United States Files False Claims Act Complaint Against Three National Health Insurance Companies and Three Brokers Alleging Unlawful Kickbacks and Discrimination Against Disabled Americans

    Source: United States Attorneys General 12

    The United States filed a complaint today under the False Claims Act (FCA) against three of the nation’s largest health insurance companies — Aetna Inc. and affiliates, Elevance Health Inc. (formerly known as Anthem), and Humana Inc. — and three large insurance broker organizations — eHealth, Inc. and an affiliate, GoHealth, Inc., and SelectQuote Inc. The United States alleges that from 2016 through at least 2021, the defendant insurers paid hundreds of millions of dollars in illegal kickbacks to the defendant brokers in exchange for enrollments into the insurers’ Medicare Advantage plans.

    Under the Medicare Advantage (MA) Program, also known as Medicare Part C, Medicare beneficiaries may choose to enroll in health care plans (MA plans) offered by private insurance companies, such as defendants Aetna, Anthem, and Humana. Many Medicare beneficiaries rely on insurance brokers to help them choose an MA plan that best meets their individual needs. Rather than acting as unbiased stewards, the defendant brokers allegedly directed Medicare beneficiaries to the plans offered by insurers that paid brokers the most in kickbacks, regardless of the suitability of the MA plans for the beneficiaries. According to the complaint, the broker organizations incentivized their employees and agents to sell plans based on the insurers’ kickbacks, set up teams of insurance agents who could sell only those plans, and at times refused to sell MA plans of insurers who did not pay sufficient kickbacks.

    The United States further alleges that Aetna and Humana each conspired with the broker defendants to discriminate against Medicare beneficiaries with disabilities whom they perceived to be less profitable. Aetna and Humana allegedly did so by threatening to withhold kickbacks to pressure brokers to enroll fewer disabled Medicare beneficiaries in their plans. The United States alleges that, in response to these financial incentives from Aetna and Humana, the defendant brokers or their agents rejected referrals of disabled beneficiaries and strategically directed disabled beneficiaries away from Aetna and Humana plans.

    “Health care companies that attempt to profit from kickbacks will be held accountable,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Michael Granston of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We are committed to rooting out illegal practices by Medicare Advantage insurers and insurance brokers that undermine the interests of federal health care programs and the patients they serve.”

    “It is concerning, to say the least, that Medicare beneficiaries were allegedly steered towards plans that were not necessarily in their best interest – but rather in the best interest of the health insurance companies,” said U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley for the District of Massachusetts. “The alleged efforts to drive beneficiaries away specifically because their disabilities might make them less profitable to health insurance companies are even more unconscionable. Profit and greed over beneficiary interest is something we will continue to investigate and prosecute aggressively. This office will continue to take decisive action to protect the rights of Medicare beneficiaries and vulnerable Americans.”

    The lawsuit was originally filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the FCA. Under the FCA, private parties can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the recovery. The FCA permits the United States to intervene in and take over the action, as it has done here. If a defendant is found liable for violating the FCA, the United States may recover three times the amount of its losses plus applicable penalties.

    The Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts are handling the matter, with valuable assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General and the FBI.  The case is captioned United States ex rel. Shea v. eHealth, et al., No. 21-cv-11777.

    Trial Attorneys David G. Miller, Anna H. Jugo, Diana E. Curtis, and Sara B. Hanson of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles Weinograd and Julien Mundele for the District of Massachusetts are handling the matter.

    The investigation and prosecution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud.  One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the FCA.  Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to HHS at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    The claims asserted in the complaint are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability. 

    Note: Read the complaint here

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer, Warner Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Authorize Remote Online Notarizations Nationwide

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    ***Click here for audio.***
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Despite significant advancements in digital technology, remote notarization has yet to be fully deployed and accepted on an interstate basis. While nearly every state allows for remote electronic notarization, regulations and recognition vary between states.
    U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced their bipartisan Securing and Enabling Commerce Using Remote and Electronic (SECURE) Notarization Act. This bill would permit the nationwide use of Remote Online Notarizations (RON), enabling notaries and signers to complete the process from different physical locations. It authorizes every notary in the United States to perform RON and provides certainty for interstate recognition of RON. The SECURE Notarization Act requires tamper-evident technology and fraud prevention measures through the use of multifactor authentication.
    “We’ve made a lot of progress toward much more widespread use of online notarizations in the past few years, particularly through the pandemic,” said Cramer. “But this patchwork of state regulations really leaves consumers without consistent access to some notary services. Quite honestly, I think it violates, certainly, the spirit of interstate commerce. Our bill simply makes sure online notarizations are valid across [state] lines and allow every notary to perform them, and perform them in a very secure way.”
    “It’s time to finally bring the notarization process into the 21st century,” said Warner. “Remote notarizations have proven to be a safe and convenient way for individuals to complete essential services such as executing wills, completing financial documents, and buying or selling a home online. This legislation would continue to modernize this system by permitting nationwide use of Remote Online Notarization to complete important documents.”
    The SECURE Notarization Act will complement state regulations, including those in North Dakota, which already allow for remote notarizations.
    The bill is endorsed by American Land Title Association (ALTA), Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), National Association of REALTORS (NAR), and American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI).
    “Senators Cramer and Warner have been longstanding champions in recognizing the clear benefits of extending RON access to all Americans and leading this bipartisan legislation, which offers a safe and secure path to remotely close real estate and mortgage transactions,” said Diane Tomb, CEO of ALTA. “By passing the SECURE Notarization Act, Congress will embrace a proven innovation and modernize the notarization process with a secure system that meets consumer needs and expectations, including those of our military heroes overseas, the elderly, and homebuyers seeking convenience.”
    “The SECURE Notarization Act would make the mortgage closing process more convenient for consumers by creating federal minimum standards to allow notaries in all states to perform remote online notarization (RON) transactions,” said Bill Killmer, Senior Vice President of Legislative and Political Affairs at MBA. “MBA appreciates Senator Cramer and Warner’s commitment to enable nationwide use of RON technology. Their continued diligence and hard work on this critical issue will greatly simplify and improve mortgage transactions for all borrowers.” 
    “The National Association of REALTORS applauds Senators Cramer and Warner for reintroducing the SECURE Notarization Act,” said Shannon McGhan, EVP & Chief Advocacy Officer for the National Association of REALTORS. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill will modernize an essential part of real estate transactions by allowing nationwide use of secure, remote online notarization. Reliable, accessible notarized records are the bedrock of real estate, and this technology ensures Americans can continue to buy, sell, and finance property with confidence in today’s digital age.”
    “Senators Cramer and Warner understand that families need practical, modern tools to plan for their financial futures,” said David Chavern, President and CEO of the ACLI. “During COVID, life insurers demonstrated how well remote online notarization works for consumers. Allowing its use nationwide is a smart, commonsense step to bring the notarization process into the 21st century.”
    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Statement on Republican Attacks on California’s Clean Air Act Waivers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Statement on Republican Attacks on California’s Clean Air Act Waivers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Rules Committee and a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, issued the following statement after House Republicans erroneously voted to strike down three California Clean Air Act waivers, which authorize California’s clean cars and trucks programs. The Senate Parliamentarian and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) have already determined that California’s Clean Air Act waivers are not subject to the simple majority threshold in the Congressional Review Act (CRA) and therefore would require 60 votes to secure Senate passage.

    “House Republicans’ misguided and cynical attempts to gut the Clean Air Act and undercut California’s climate leadership ignores the reality of California’s strength as the fourth largest economy in the world. I will continue to defend our state’s authority to protect our residents, clean our air, lower costs, and transition to a clean energy economy.

    “Let me also be clear about process. The Senate parliamentarian has already upheld decades of precedent and determined these CRAs are not allowed by Senate rules. If Senate Republicans take up these measures under the Congressional Review Act, they will be going nuclear by overruling the Parliamentarian, all to baselessly attack California.”

    Senator Padilla has been outspoken in pushing back against Republican attacks on California’s Clean Air Act waivers and welcomed the Senate parliamentarian’s decision that waivers are not subject to the CRA. He also joined Senators Schiff and Whitehouse in blasting Trump and Zeldin’s weaponization of the EPA when the GAO had already found that California’s Clean Air Act waivers are not subject to the CRA. Padilla and Schiff also slammed the Trump Administration’s intent to roll back dozens of the EPA’s regulations that protect California’s air and water.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New legislation will deliver key infrastructure faster, strengthen economy

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Candy Ashdown, board chair, Langley School District –

    “Langley has experienced rapid growth in recent years, and we are working hard to build the schools that families need. Legislation that offers new tools to accelerate the construction of classrooms and schools is a positive step for our community. We look forward to working closely with government on continuing to ensure students have the high-quality learning environments they need to thrive.”

    Everett Baker, mayor, City of Grand Forks –

    “After the City of Grand Forks experienced catastrophic flooding in 2018, our main focus was on taking care of our community. In the years following, we completed over 40 different permitting processes to build back stronger. I hope this legislation could be used to help more communities rebuild what they’ve lost in a faster, more streamlined way, so municipalities can stay focused on supporting people and not lengthy or overlapping approval processes.”

    Vivian Eliopoulos, president and chief executive officer, Vancouver Coastal Health –

    “This new legislation is an important step forward in helping hospitals and health-care sites get built more efficiently and effectively. It will provide the tools to improve services, modernize infrastructure and better support the health and wellness of the communities we serve.”

    Neil Fassina, president, Okanagan College –

    “Post-secondary institutions across B.C. and throughout Canada are facing increased cost pressures as we work to meet the needs of our students, employees and communities. This legislation will support colleges, like Okanagan College, to move more quickly to build required facilities for students to get the training and education they require to be job ready.”

    Colleen Giroux-Schmidt, vice-president, Innergex –

    “This new legislation shows us that advancing critical infrastructure and upholding strong environmental standards are not mutually exclusive. It provides a clear path to get vital projects built and deliver the clean energy, modern grid systems and resilient communities the B.C. needs to anchor our prosperity without compromising our commitment to environmental stewardship.”

    Patrick Johnstone, mayor, City of New Westminster –

    “The infrastructure projects act is a good step toward accelerating the infrastructure our communities need to support growth. It will allow for greater collaboration between the Province and municipalities so we can work together delivering the schools, hospitals and other critical infrastructure our residents demand. This legislation provides a framework for prioritizing the needs of people in our growing communities and streamlining to deliver projects more efficiently.”

    Geoffrey W. Payne, president and vice-chancellor, University of Northern British Columbia –

    “Colleges and universities in B.C need the facilities to equip students for the future and the changing needs of the workforce, but we’re facing growing financial pressures as we try to do that. This legislation will allow us to work closer with government on projects that our students need so we can deliver faster and help strengthen our communities.”   

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Pressley Shares Powerful Story of Family from Republican District at Risk from Proposed Medicaid Cuts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Mary from Michigan: “I’m a hospice nurse who works four days a week. My son, Michael, was diagnosed with autism when he was two years old… These politicians don’t care about people like my son. They would rather that people like my son would just die. They don’t think that he contributes to society or is worth anything. But as his mom, I know that is so, so, so, wrong.”

    Pressley Also Introduced Amendments to Strengthen CFPB, Expose Harmful Impact of DOGE

    Video (YouTube)

    WASHINGTON – In the House Financial Services Committee’s markup of the Republican reconciliation bill, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) condemned the bill’s proposed cuts to Medicaid and shared the story of Mary Marinelli, a 70-year-old hospice nurse from a Republican district in Michigan whose family depends on Medicaid to care for their autistic son. Congresswoman Pressley also introduced several amendments to the legislation to strengthen the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and expose the harmful impact of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

    Congresswoman Pressley’s amendments to the reconciliation bill would:

    • Ensure the CFPB remains fully funded so that it may continue returning billions of dollars to consumers by charging risk-based assessments to the largest banks and non-bank financial companies, including big tech payment providers and payday lenders
    • Ensure the CFPB remains fully funded by changing its funding structure so that any company found to have violated a consumer financial protection law since 2010 would pay annually to fund the CFPB through an annual assessment.
    • Conduct a study on the types and amounts of sensitive data that DOGE has been provided access to, and to assess whether such information sharing has undermined data privacy, competition, cybersecurity or other financial stability considerations.
    • Conduct a study to evaluate the damage and risk posed to our financial systems by DOGE cuts, as well as the concerning impacts on consumer and investor protection

    Republicans rejected every amendment proposed by Pressley and her Democratic colleagues.

    A transcript of the Congresswoman’s testimony on behalf of Ms. Marinelli is below and the video is available here.

    Transcript: Pressley Condemns Reconciliation Bill, Shares Heartbreaking Story of Family from GOP District at Risk from Medicaid Cuts

    House Financial Services Committee

    April 30, 2025

    Democrats have been sounding the alarm on the hurt and harm this Republican bill will unleash. 

    In my district, the Massachusetts 7th, I’ve been holding town halls, listening to my constituents who oppose this bill for many reasons, but especially the Medicaid cuts.

    Republicans were told to not host town halls, and they definitely haven’t been listening to the people in their district. It’s gotten so bad that people living in Republican districts are now reaching out to my office to have their voices heard.

    Here is a letter from a constituent of Rep. McClain’s, who sits on this very committee. These are the words of Mary Marinelli:

    “I’m a hospice nurse who works four days a week. My son, Michael, was diagnosed with autism when he was two years old. He’s non-verbal. He cannot be left alone and needs to be supervised 24/7. Through Medicaid, my youngest son, Sean, gets paid to be a caretaker for Michael, which really helps us out. 

    “When Michael became 18, he got on Medicaid and Medicare. It pays for his medication, treatment, hospital stays, and allows us to do some different therapies with him. He’s also on Social Security, which he started receiving at the age of 18. It gives us extra money, about $900 a month, to take care of him. 

    “I am 70 years old. I am still working as a hospice nurse four days a week. If they take Medicaid away, I don’t know what I’ll do. I’d have to get a second job. I received a letter on Friday. They want me to come into the Social Security office to talk about Michael’s benefits. They’ve never done that before, and I was in despair all weekend, worried about them taking away his benefits. 

    “I don’t know how we would function without Medicaid. It’s already stressful enough, even with these services. I can’t imagine how much worse things will get. It would be a death sentence. 

    “As a nurse, I can talk about a lot of different angles to this, the physical ramification of patients falling more between the cracks. These politicians don’t care about people like my son. They would rather that people like my son would just die. They don’t think that he contributes to society or is worth anything. But as his mom, I know that is so, so, so, wrong. 

    “Michael is a wonderful person who brings so much. I don’t know what I would have done without Medicaid.”

    I don’t know if Rep. McClain is here and has anything to say to Mary, her constituent, communicating to you through me. 

    Silence.

    The American people do not support this bill, and that includes those living in Republican districts.

    Mr. Chair, I’m grateful for the reconciliation survival kit that you gifted to members. I only wish I had one for the American people.

    I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: T-Max Lending LLC Relocates Headquarters to Sacramento to Support Growth, Innovation, and Enhanced Client Service

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SACRAMENTO, Calif., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — T-Max Lending LLC, a leading provider of innovative lending solutions, is proud to announce the strategic relocation of its corporate headquarters from 4727 Executive Dr, San Diego, CA 92121 to a new, state-of-the-art facility at 801 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814. This move represents a significant milestone in the company’s growth and its commitment to improving client service, operational efficiency, and technological advancement in the lending industry.

    The relocation to Sacramento places T-Max Lending at the heart of California’s government and financial regulatory activity, providing improved access to policymakers, industry stakeholders, and a growing pool of financial technology talent. This strategic positioning enhances T-Max Lending’s ability to collaborate with policymakers, stay ahead of industry trends, and serve its diverse clientele more effectively.

    “This move is more than geography, it is a key step in scaling our operations and improving the accessibility and responsiveness of our service” said Kenneth Richard, CEO of T-Max Lending LLC. “This move enables us to be closer to decision-making centers and provides a fertile ground for technological and operational expansion. More importantly, it reflects our dedication to providing better, faster, and more secure services to our clients across the state and beyond.”

    Operational Enhancements to Better Serve Clients

    In tandem with the headquarters relocation, T-Max Lending has implemented significant upgrades to its office operations, loan origination processes, and customer service frameworks. Central to these changes is the adoption of cutting-edge AI technologies, which are set to revolutionize the lending process by making it faster, more accurate, and secure.

    AI-Driven Loan Origination and Processing: The integration of advanced artificial intelligence technology is streamlining the loan application and approval process. By automating routine tasks and leveraging predictive analytics, the company can now offer faster pre-approvals, enhanced fraud detection, and personalized loan recommendations.

    Enhanced Client Service Model: The company has redesigned its internal operations to prioritize rapid response, transparency, and customer empowerment. A newly implemented digital portal offers clients real-time updates, streamlined document uploads, and secure communication with loan officers.

    Cybersecurity and Data Integrity Upgrades: As part of its technology overhaul, T-Max Lending has adopted state-of-the-art encryption and cybersecurity frameworks to ensure that all client data remains secure and confidential throughout the lending lifecycle.

    Workplace Modernization: The new Sacramento office has been designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and wellness. Equipped with smart technologies and eco-friendly design, the space supports hybrid work models and positions the company to attract top talent in fintech and client services.

    Sacramento’s status as California’s capital gives T-Max closer access to lawmakers, housing authorities, and regulatory agencies, supporting quicker compliance adaptation and fostering new policy collaboration opportunities.

    “Our clients are at the center of everything we do,” added Kenneth. “Our new headquarters and AI-driven innovations reflect our unwavering commitment to serving our clients better, faster, and more securely. We are confident that these changes will enhance our ability to deliver exceptional lending solutions while setting a new standard for the industry. Our goal is to make borrowing simpler, smarter, and more secure.”

    T-Max Lending looks forward to welcoming clients, partners, and team members to its new Sacramento location and continuing to lead the charge in responsible, technology-driven lending.

    New Headquarters Address:

    T-Max Lending LLC

    801 K St. Sacramento, CA 95814

    For media inquiries, interviews, or more information, please contact:

    Press Contact:

    Mason Simmons
    Director of Communications
    info@tmaxlending.com
    www.tmaxlending.com
    (619) 259-0177

    About T-Max Lending LLC

    T-Max Lending LLC is a forward-thinking lending institution offering a wide range of residential and commercial loan products. Committed to innovation, integrity, and customer-first service, T-Max is redefining how people access capital with smarter technology and streamlined processes.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Best Tribal Loans For Bad Credit Direct Lenders Guaranteed Approval – IOnline Payday Loans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHERIDAN, Wyo., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tribal loans are credit products offered by tribal lenders, typically based on Native American reservations. These lenders operate under tribal laws rather than the laws of the state in which the consumer resides. Tribal loans can encompass various types, including short-term loans, payday loans, installment loans, and personal loans.

    >> Click Here to Apply for No Credit Check Loans >>

    While there are benefits to tribal loans for bad credit, such as less stringent eligibility requirements and faster approval times, they are often associated with high-interest rates and fees that may be considered predatory.

    This article provides an in-depth look at tribal loans for credit direct lenders, explaining how they function, their potential advantages, as well as their disadvantages and risks. It also details the application process for tribal payday loans and offers guidance on selecting the best options, including a review of IOnline Payday Loans, a well-known tribal loan brand.
    Key Takeaways:

    Tribal loans are a specific type of loan that is available to individuals with bad credit.

    These loans differ from traditional loans as a tribal loans direct lender guaranteed approval

    provides them and have different application requirements.

    IOnline Payday Loans is a trusted brand that stands out for providing tribal loans online guaranteed approval, offering benefits such as lower interest rates and flexible repayment options.

    >> Click Here to Apply for No Credit Check Loans >>

    Tribal Loans for Bad Credit

    Tribal loans for bad credit are specialized loan products offered by tribal lenders to individuals with poor credit histories. These loans can assist people facing financial emergencies by providing the necessary funds to cover unexpected expenses, ensuring borrower protection.

    Offered by Native American tribes that have established their own lending institutions, these loans can be processed quickly and often come with flexible repayment options due to the tribal sovereign immunity under which these institutions operate.

    >> Click Here to Apply for No Credit Check Loans >>

    Typically, tribal loans direct lender guaranteed approval no teletrack are short-term, unsecured personal loans. Compared to traditional banks or credit unions, tribal lending institutions are generally more willing to extend credit to borrowers with bad credit due to flexible loan requirements.

    This accessibility provides borrowers with competitive interest rates and can help them break free from the cycle of predatory lending and its associated risks.

    What Are Tribal Loans?

    Easiest tribal loans to get no credit check represent a unique form of lending primarily offered by Native American tribes, leveraging their sovereign status to provide financial products that may not be accessible through traditional banking systems. These loans are specifically designed to assist individuals in urgent need of funds, such as those facing emergency expenses or unexpected financial difficulties.

    Among the various types of tribal loans are payday loans, personal loans, and installment loans, each tailored to meet different emergency cash needs.
    Unlike conventional lenders, tribal loans often have more flexible eligibility requirements, making them accessible to a wider range of borrowers. For instance, individuals with less-than-perfect credit histories may still qualify, providing a vital lifeline during times of crisis.

    Emergency cash needs are met with quick access to funds for medical bills, car repairs, or urgent home repairs. Borrowers also benefit from specific legal protections established under tribal law and tribal court, which can differ significantly from state regulations. Furthermore, these loans can serve as stepping stones for individuals seeking to rebuild their financial stability and economic growth.

    It is essential for potential borrowers to thoroughly understand the terms of these loans and consider their repayment capabilities to ensure that they serve as a beneficial solution rather than a financial burden.

    How Do Tribal Loans Differ from Traditional Loans?

    Tribal loans differ from traditional loans in several significant ways, with the primary distinction being the legal framework of tribal sovereign immunity. This allows Native American tribes to provide lending services that are not subject to many federal laws governing lending. As a result, tribal loans can better meet borrowers’ needs by offering faster access to funds, more flexible repayment terms, and often no credit checks compared to traditional banks and lenders.

    When comparing traditional loans to tribal loans, several key differences in lending services emerge:

    • Loan Approval Processes: Tribal lenders typically offer much quicker loan approval processes, and their applications are often simplified, eliminating much of the paperwork required by traditional banks.
    • Interest Rates: While tribal loans may seem to have higher interest rates, they are often competitively priced for borrowers with low credit scores. Traditional banks frequently impose hidden fees that can significantly increase the effective interest rate.
    • Repayment Schedules: Tribal loans often feature repayment schedules that can be tailored to the borrower’s financial situation. They are particularly beneficial for those with poor credit, as tribal lenders focus on current income and repayment ability rather than past credit history.

    Additionally, the online application process for tribal loans allows borrowers to receive funds much more quickly than they would at a traditional bank or credit union, which generally take longer to process loans. This flexibility makes tribal loans a viable alternative to traditional loans when urgent financial needs arise.

    What is Bad Credit?

    Bad credit refers to a low credit score that typically indicates a history of poor financial management, including late payments, defaults, or bankruptcy. Individuals with bad credit often face challenges in securing financial assistance, as many traditional lenders, such as banks and credit unions, view their credit profiles as high-risk, affecting the loan application process.

    As a result, these lenders may either deny their loan applications or offer loans with unfavorable terms.

    How Does Bad Credit Affect Loan Approval?

    Bad credit significantly impacts loan approval since most lenders use credit checks to assess the likelihood of an individual repaying borrowed funds. Those with poor credit scores face significant challenges when applying for financing, often being denied personal loans or offered extremely high-interest rates that exacerbate their financial difficulties.

    This situation creates a cycle in which a person’s financial options become increasingly limited. Traditional lenders, such as banks and credit unions, have stricter requirements that many applicants cannot meet.

    In contrast, tribal lending organizations typically have more lenient criteria, allowing individuals with bad credit to obtain funds. However, such loans may come with complications, including higher interest rates or predatory terms. It is essential for borrowers to weigh these risks against their immediate financial needs.

    While bad credit may close many doors, tribal loans can represent an alternative option that requires careful consideration.

    Why Consider Tribal Loans for Bad Credit?

    Yes, individuals with bad credit should consider tribal loans, as these loans are specifically designed to assist those facing financial emergencies.

    Tribal lending institutions offer quick approval times and flexible repayment terms, allowing individuals to access emergency cash without the stringent requirements typically associated with traditional loans.

    What Are the Benefits of Tribal Loans for Bad Credit?

    The benefits of tribal loans for individuals with bad credit include access to funds for emergency expenses, competitive interest rates, and the flexibility to customize a repayment schedule based on their financial circumstances. These advantages make tribal loans an appealing option for those who have faced challenges with traditional financing due to low credit scores.

    Along with providing immediate financial assistance, tribal loans offer numerous compelling advantages. Borrowers can benefit from no credit checks, which allows them to secure funding without the concern of their credit history being evaluated. Loan rollover options provide additional flexibility, enabling borrowers to manage repayments more comfortably. Furthermore, protection under tribal law enhances the security of these loans, safeguarding borrowers from predatory practices often associated with payday lending.

    By utilizing tribal loans, individuals can effectively break the cycle of debt and improve their financial stability, leading to a significant transformation in their overall economic well-being.

    What Are the Risks of Tribal Loans for Bad Credit?

    Tribal loans can assist individuals with bad credit; however, they come with certain risks, particularly high-interest rates and the potential for hidden fees. Borrowers must be mindful of these drawbacks to make informed decisions and fully understand the total cost of borrowing. It is crucial to recognize that tribal loans can lead to cycles of indebtedness, especially when consumers do not fully comprehend the terms associated with these financial products.

    To ensure a safer borrowing experience, consumers should:

    • Read all loan agreements thoroughly.
    • Consult with financial advisors if there is any uncertainty regarding the terms.
    • Be aware of the consequences of loan rollovers, which can significantly increase debt levels and impact borrower protection.

    Neglecting these important factors can result in undue hardship and further deterioration of one’s financial and credit standing.

    How to Apply for Tribal Loans for Bad Credit?

    Tribal loans for bad credit can be easily applied for, often through online applications that improve the lending experience. Borrowers can quickly submit their loan applications, ensuring they meet the necessary criteria for approval while avoiding the lengthy waiting periods typically associated with traditional lenders.

    What Are the Requirements for Tribal Loans for Bad Credit?

    The requirements for tribal loans for individuals with bad credit are typically less stringent than those for traditional loans, making it easier for those in need of financial support to qualify. Lenders often prioritize the borrowers’ ability to repay over their credit history, resulting in quicker approval times for tribal loans.

    This accessibility allows individuals who may feel excluded from the conventional banking system to find viable options without facing the harsh rejections often encountered with banks. When applying for a tribal loan, applicants should ensure they meet the following general requirements:

    • Proof of income to demonstrate a stable source of earnings
    • A minimum age of usually 18 years
    • Proof of residency, which typically involves having a valid address

    Along with these basic requirements, tribal lending often emphasizes community and developmental aspects, which are less significant in standard bank lending.

    How to Increase Chances of Approval for Tribal Loans for Bad Credit?

    To increase the chances of having $500 tribal installment loans direct lenders only, borrowers should demonstrate financial acumen and submit a thorough application. Understanding what tribal lenders require and developing a realistic repayment plan can provide lenders with added confidence that borrowers will repay their loans responsibly. There are several proactive steps that individuals can take to enhance their loan application experience.

    One of the most effective ways to improve the likelihood of receiving a loan is by enhancing financial literacy. Familiarizing oneself with key concepts such as interest rates, loan terms, and potential fees associated with tribal loans can give the power to applicants to make informed decisions. To achieve this, borrowers should start by checking their credit reports for errors and disputing any inaccuracies. Creating a detailed budget can also illustrate financial responsibility, demonstrating to lenders both the amount the borrower can borrow and their ability to repay it.

    Additionally, it’s beneficial to research various lenders to find those with positive reviews and favorable terms. Equally important is taking the time to thoroughly read and understand the terms and conditions of any loan agreement before accepting and signing it, ensuring that the terms are manageable.

    Choosing the Best Tribal Loans for Bad Credit from Reputable Loan Providers

    The best tribal loans bad credit are selected based on the interest rates offered, the terms and conditions of the loans, and the reputation of the lenders, including Native American Tribal courts. By evaluating these factors, borrowers can find the most suitable tribal loans for their circumstances and avoid potential negative consequences.

    What to Look for in a Tribal Loan Lender?

    When selecting a tribal loan lender, it is important to consider their reputation, customer reviews, specific loan terms, and loan eligibility. A reputable lender will communicate clearly about all fees and borrower protections, ensuring a safe and beneficial borrowing experience. Additionally, you should prioritize how responsive the lender is to customer inquiries and concerns. An ideal lender will be easily reachable and provide prompt answers to questions, demonstrating their dedication to client satisfaction.

    The level of transparency in the loan agreement is also crucial, as greater transparency allows borrowers to make informed decisions without encountering hidden surprises. Thoroughly researching lenders is essential. Important factors to consider include:

    • Customer testimonials: Customer reviews can provide insight into a lender’s trustworthiness and reliability.
    • Terms and conditions: Reviewing the specific terms and conditions ensures they align with your personal financial needs.
    • Licensing and regulatory compliance: Regulatory oversight protects customers against predatory practices.

    By taking the time to consider these factors, you can increase your chances of having a positive borrowing experience.

    How to Compare Different Tribal Loan Options?

    Comparing tribal loan options is essential for borrowers seeking a financial solution that best suits their specific needs. By evaluating interest rates, repayment schedules, and other fees across various lenders, borrowers can identify the tribal loan that aligns with their circumstances. With the widespread availability of the internet, numerous tools and resources are at borrowers’ disposal to facilitate this comparison process. For instance, online comparison websites serve as valuable resources, allowing prospective borrowers to swiftly explore a wide range of tribal loan options from multiple lenders, thereby simplifying the often daunting task of making informed decisions.

    When comparing tribal loan options, the following factors should be considered:

    • Total Repayment Costs: This is typically the most crucial factor, as it significantly impacts long-term financial health.
    • Lender’s Reputation: Understanding how a lender operates, including aspects like customer service and reliability, can be important when choosing between options.
    • Flexibility of Repayment Terms: The availability of various repayment options regarding cost, schedule, and pre-payment penalties is beneficial for borrowers.

    By utilizing these resources and taking these factors into account, borrowers can find a loan that meets their specific financial needs.

    IOnline Payday Loans as a Trusted Brand for Tribal Loans for Bad Credit

    IOnline Payday Loans is a reputable and trusted brand in the realm of tribal loans for bad credit, offering various high-interest loans. As a legitimate tribal lender, IOnline Payday Loans offers borrowers a straightforward and user-friendly application process, along with the assistance necessary to secure the funds they need as quickly as possible.

    What Makes IOnline Payday Loans Stand Out for Tribal Loans?

    IOnline Payday Loans is a distinctive lending service for tribal loans, known for its commitment to customer support and interest rates that are suitable for borrowers with bad credit. The IOnline Payday Loans brand is centered around delivering a positive borrowing experience, ensuring that borrowers fully understand all aspects of their loan before signing any contracts.

    What sets this service apart is its focus on borrower education, which distinguishes it from many competitors that offer little guidance, often leaving borrowers feeling confused and frustrated. IOnline Payday Loans provides valuable educational resources and customer support, give the power toing clients to make informed financial decisions.

    Customers have shared success stories that highlight how the knowledgeable staff at IOnline helped them navigate potentially challenging situations. One customer remarked, “I wasn’t even sure I was going to take a loan at first, but the staff helped me understand the process and explained what documents I needed. Because of that, I got through a rough month.”

    These testimonials illustrate the brand’s dedication to building trust and transparency while delivering an essential service.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are tribal loans for bad credit and how do they work?

    Tribal loans for bad credit are short-term loans that are offered by Native American tribes, often through online lenders. These borrowing options are designed to help individuals with poor credit scores. These loans are designed to help individuals with poor credit scores who are not able to secure traditional loans. Tribal loans are a viable part of consumer lending. The loan process typically involves filling out an online application and receiving the funds directly into your bank account if approved.

    What makes tribal loans a good option for individuals with bad credit?

    Tribal loans can be a good option for those with bad credit because they do not usually require a credit check. This loan type is based on other factors such as income and employment stability. Instead, these loans are based on other factors such as income and employment stability. This makes it easier for individuals with poor credit to get the financial assistance they need and avoid debt cycles.

    What are the eligibility requirements for obtaining the best tribal loans for bad credit?

    The specific eligibility requirements may vary depending on the lender, but in general, you must be at least 18 years old, have a regular source of income, and have a valid bank account. Financial knowledge is also important for managing these loans. Some lenders may also require a minimum credit score, but this is not always the case with tribal loans.

    Which online lender offers the best tribal loans for bad credit?

    IOnline Payday Loans is a leading online lender that offers some of the best tribal loans for bad credit. CreditNinja is another popular lender in this space. They have a quick and easy application process and offer competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options. The Native American Financial Services Association ensures fair lending practices.

    Can I use a tribal loan for bad credit to improve my credit score?

    Yes, you can use a tribal loan for bad credit as a way to improve your credit score. By making timely payments on your loan, you can demonstrate responsible financial behavior and potentially boost your credit score over time.

    Is there a limit on the amount of money I can borrow with a tribal loan for bad credit?

    The maximum loan amount may vary depending on the lender and your specific financial situation. The loan value typically reflects your ability to repay. However, most tribal loans for bad credit typically range from $500 to $2,500. It is important to only borrow what you can comfortably repay to avoid getting into further financial trouble.

    Disclaimer: This announcement contains general information about Ionline payday loan services and should not be considered financial advice. Ionline Payday Loans does not guarantee loan approval, and loan terms may vary by applicant and lender requirements. Loans are available to U.S. residents only.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a27af229-25c4-44a5-8062-3fa344fc10a6

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Introduces Legislation to Stimulate Investments into American Manufacturing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today lead 19 of her colleagues in introducing the Building Advanced Semiconductors Investment Credit (BASIC) Act to increase and extend the advanced manufacturing investment credit. 

    This legislation increases the advanced manufacturing investment credit from 25% to 35% and extends its availability through December 31, 2030. Semiconductors are essential to nearly every modern technology and producing these domestically is foundational to both America’s economy and its national security. Extending this tax credit will promote further investment in establishing new production facilities to manufacture semiconductors, which will spur job growth in advanced science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing, as well as ensure that the United States can compete globally and maintain its technological dominance over adversaries like China. Extending this critical tax incentive signals long-term U.S. commitment to tech leadership and levels the playing field for American companies ensuring the United States does not fall behind in this critical strategic sector.

    Additional original cosponsors of this legislation include Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Mike Carey (R-OH), Joe Morelle (D-NY), John Mannion (D-NY), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Tim Kennedy (D-NY), Josh Riley (D-NY), Mike Simpson (R-ID), Jen Kiggans (R-VA), Joe Neguse (D-CO), Young Kim (R-CA), Becca Balint (D-VT), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Steven Horsford (D-NV), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Ro Khanna (D-CA), and Suhas Subramanyan (D-VA).  

    “To restore America as a manufacturing powerhouse, we must empower American companies with the tools they need to succeed. The BASIC Act extends and expands the manufacturing investment credit, encouraging investment in the U.S. economy and enabling companies like Micron to build factories right here in New York. This legislation works hand in hand with the Trump administration to revitalize American manufacturing and bring jobs back to the United States,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

    “Bringing semiconductor manufacturing to the United States is both a critical national security priority and massive economic opportunity for the next generation of American workers,” said Congressman Carey. “Increasing and extending this tax credit will help our economy grow and create a reliable supply chain for critical semiconductors. I am proud to join with my colleagues on this legislation and look forward to it passing.” 

    “Bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to the United States is critical not only for our national security but also to ensure we no longer rely on adversaries like Communist China for this vital industry that powers nearly every modern technology. Extending and enhancing this tax credit will strengthen our domestic supply chain, create good-paying American jobs, and help our nation remain competitive on the global stage. I thank my friend Rep. Claudia Tenney for leading this important effort,” said Congresswoman Malliotakis. 

    “Securing America’s economic and national security starts with rebuilding our domestic supply chains. By strengthening and extending the semiconductor investment credit, the BASIC Act will empower American innovators, bolster advanced manufacturing, and help ensure the United States—not China—leads the future of technology,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick.

    “The Building Advanced Semiconductors Investment Credit (BASIC) is critical legislation to advance semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S. BASIC will generate additional economic activity across the semiconductor ecosystem in the U.S. over the next four years to meet economic and national security goals,” said Sanjay Mehrotra, Micron Chairman, President and CEO. “Micron is appreciative of the leadership from Rep. Tenney and Members of Congress to ensure semiconductor companies can make cost-competitive, long-term investments in advanced U.S. manufacturing.

    “As the historic investment being made by Micron moves forward, partners at every level of government must continue to work together to do everything we can to expedite this critical investment – especially for our national security. The Building Advanced Semiconductors Investment Credit (BASIC) is vital for semiconductor manufacturers like Micron in order to maintain global competitiveness and create certainty in their construction timelines. I want to thank Congresswoman Tenney for her leadership in advocating for the expansion of BASIC and passionate advocacy to help Central New York and Upstate New York become the hub for memory technology manufacturing in the world,” said Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon.  

    “Extending and expanding the Advanced Manufacturing Investment Credit is crucial for growth of U.S. semiconductor manufacturing to strengthen national and economic security. The Building Advanced Semiconductors Investment Credit legislation will help GlobalFoundries continue to expand and modernize our facilities in Upstate New York and Vermont, as well as to ensure that the U.S. semiconductor industry maintains global competitiveness. GlobalFoundries is proud to be making chips in America and we would like to thank Congresswoman Tenney and the co-sponsors of this legislation for their continued support for domestic semiconductor manufacturing,” said Dr. Thomas Caulfield, Executive Chairman of GlobalFoundries.

    “The statutory extension of IRC §48D past its December 31, 2026 expiration is an essential factor that supports TSMC’s continued expansion in Arizona, specifically our recently announced plans to build three additional chip fabrication plants, two back-end packaging facilities, and a major semiconductor R&D center. TSMC’s overall U.S. investment now stands at $165 billion. The company is deeply grateful to Representative Tenney and her cosponsors for leading this important legislation,” said Peter Cleveland, SVP, Global Government Affairs, TSMC.

     “This legislation is a timely and essential measure to secure long-term investment in the U.S. semiconductor sector and ensure our domestic industry remains competitive in an increasingly aggressive global marketplace. By increasing the investment tax credit to 35% and prolonging the eligibility period, this bill addresses the structural cost disadvantages that U.S.-based manufacturers face—especially compared to Asia—where faster permitting, cheaper labor, and state-backed subsidies give foreign competitors an unfair edge. BASIC directly offsets these imbalances and provides semiconductor manufacturers the financial certainty needed to move forward with building new fabrication facilities here in the United States over the next four years. I commend Representative Tenney and the co-sponsors of this legislation for their leadership and foresight,” said Jason Hsu, Senior Fellow, Hudson Institute.

    “To win the chip race, the U.S. must continue to reinforce domestic chip production and advance innovation. The BASIC Act is a welcome effort to strengthen this proven driver of investment by increasing the credit’s rate and extending its duration, spurring continued investment in America’s growing ecosystem. This proposal, along with the expansion of the credit to include chip R&D and design, is critical to America’s competitiveness and sustained technology leadership,” said John Neuffer, President and CEO of the Semiconductor Industry Association.

    “The CHIPS Act has spurred a massive resurgence in American semiconductor production. We lost our global leadership in chips, a technology we invented, because other countries pursued effective industrial strategies while we did nothing. The United States has finally woken up to the fact that we can fight back, and we have hundreds of billions of dollars in new domestic semiconductor investment to show for it. Rep. Tenney and her colleagues deserve tremendous credit for their continued focus on smart public policy that strengthens American industry,” said Chris Griswold, Policy Director, American Compass.

    “The advanced manufacturing investment credit is a vital tool to support domestic manufacturing and growth of key industries like semiconductors, microelectronics and more,” said Robert M. Simpson, president of CenterState CEO, in Syracuse. “This legislation to increase the tax credit to 35% and extend its availability through 2030 will further support Central New York’s ability to lead in the domestic production of chips that we rely on every day, making the region an essential hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation, while supporting national and economic security.” 

    “This bi-partisan legislation is a home run for New York and its goal of being the leader is semiconductor manufacturing. We applaud Congresswoman Tenney for getting the support of 17 colleagues behind the bill. We urge all of congress to support this legislation that will undoubtedly create jobs and grow New York’s economy for years to come,” said Heather Mulligan, President & CEO, The Business Council of New York State Inc.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, Williams, Loeffler Bring Back “Made in America”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams (R-Texas) are introducing key bipartisan legislation with Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) to continue unleashing American industry.
    Manufacturing loans are already up 74% under President Trump and by doubling the individual loan limit for 7(a) and 504 small manufacturing loans from $5 million to $10 million, the Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act will allow small businesses to access the capital they need to invest in new equipment, hire new employees, and grow their businesses.
    “In Iowa and across the country, Main Street is roaring back under President Trump,” said Ernst. “I am proud to work with Administrator Loeffler and Chairman Williams to continue unleashing American industry by allowing small manufacturers to grow and equipping Iowa small business to lead the way. Today marks a major step in bringing back ‘Made in America.’”
    “I want to thank Administrator Loeffler and Senators Ernst and Coons for their partnership on this crucial legislation, as we support America’s small businesses, which make up nearly 99% of all U.S. manufacturers,” said Williams. “The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act provides small business owners the capital they need to expand, modernize, and compete. We must continue to support and empower the job creators who keep our communities thriving. Together, we will continue driving the America First agenda forward and creating an environment where the success of Main Street is a priority.”
    “On Liberation Day, President Trump made a clear promise to fight for our businesses and workers by bringing back the jobs and supply chains that built this nation—and today, we’re delivering,” said Loeffler. “The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act will double SBA loan limits for small manufacturers, supercharging the return of American industry by giving small businesses the capital they need to expand, hire, and compete. I’m grateful to Senator Ernst and Representative Williams for leading this bipartisan effort that will empower our small businesses to reclaim our economic independence and rebuild the foundation of American power.”
    “Every big business started as a small business that just needed a little help to grow,” said Coons. “This bipartisan bill builds on years of work to give small manufacturers access to the funding they need to invest in their American dream. This is how we keep manufacturing jobs in America and help communities up and down Delaware thrive.”  
    Click here to view the bill.

    Background:
    After discussing undoing the damage of the Biden administration and fixing the financial integrity of the 7(a) loan program with Administrator Kelly Loeffler during her confirmation hearing, Ernst praised Loeffler for restoring financial responsibility to SBA’s loan programs.
    These responsible reforms were a great relief to Ernst and Williams, who previously raised concerns that the Biden administration’s rapid expansion of the 7(a) lending program was leaving taxpayers on the hook for risky lending practices by non-bank lenders.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Available to Indiana Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by September Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP)organizations of the May 30, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning Sep. 24, 2024. 

    The disaster declaration covers Dearborn, Decatur, Fayette, Franklin, Jefferson, Jennings, Ohio, Ripley, Rush, Switzerland and Union counties in Indiana, as well as Boone County in Kentucky, and Butler and Hamilton counties in Ohio. 

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises. 

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. 

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”  

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition. 

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. 

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is May 30, 2025. 

    ### 

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration 

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s Ukraine mineral deal finally lands as US economy shivers

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Rachael Jolley, International Affairs Editor

    Donald Trump promised he could sort out a peace deal for the Ukraine war in 24 hours. It still hasn’t happened. Instead the US administration has taken 100 days just to sign a mineral deal with Ukraine.

    This agreement will give the US access to revenue from Ukrainian natural resources, including 100 major deposits of critical minerals. It also has huge symbolism. Ukrainians see it as a sign that the US is committed to staying involved in their country, and also as a warming of the relationship between Ukraine’s president and Trump. It will also be a signal to Russia that what hurts Ukraine could also hurt the US economy.

    Of course, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt calls the deal “historic” and puts its brilliance down to Trump’s amazing negotiation skills.

    However, in the week that Trump celebrated 100 days in office, others would argue that Trump’s deal-making skills are nowhere near as astute as he thinks they are. That he gave Russia way too much room to manoeuvre in the early months of 2025 by leaning so clearly in Putin’s direction, allowing the Russian leader to think he could pretty much do anything he fancied and win as much of Ukraine as he desired.

    US and Ukraine sign a mineral deal.

    But US national security advisor Michael Waltz, who has announced he is standing down, has signalled that the balance may now be shifting, when he said the minerals deal was “a momentous step” and: “Russia needs to come to the table.”

    As Bridget Storrie from UCL’s Institute for Global Prosperity has pointed out, this deal was all about what the global super power was going to get as justification for its support in the war, rather than about how it could increase prosperity in a war-torn country.




    Read more:
    Ukraine minerals deal: the idea that natural resource extraction can build peace has been around for decades


    Andrew Gawthorpe, a lecturer in history and international studies at Leiden University, has looked at the details and believes Kyiv is getting more than many expected, and more than was on offer earlier in the year, when Trump fell out so publicly with Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, at a White House press conference. As part of the deal Ukraine will retain ownership of its natural resources. All profits are to be invested in Ukraine for ten years after the agreement comes into force. It also looks like Washington will contribute new military aid.




    Read more:
    US-Ukraine minerals deal looks better for Kyiv than expected – but Trump is an unpredictable partner


    Presidential power

    Trump’s first 100 days have been tumultuous, not just for the US, but for most of the world. His “liberation day” tariffs on international goods have turned existing economic balances and expectations upside down.

    Countries that have long seen themselves as confident allies of the US – Canada, Denmark and Germany, for instance – now see the landscape somewhat differently, given the high US tariffs that have landed on their doorsteps. No longer convinced of the strength of their relationship with the world’s superpower, many are rethinking both their economic plans and their alliances.

    Meanwhile, China, the main focus of Trump’s tariffs, can see opportunities opening up to forge stronger relationships with, and sales to, other countries also looking for new markets. China has not crumbled yet under the weight of 145% US tariffs. And China’s president, Xi Jinping, is showing no sign of blinking first and heading to Washington to negotiate as Trump was clearly expecting.

    Trump now swings daily from claiming he is negotiating with China and that their tariffs can come down, to stating that Beijing will cave. All that sound and fury sounds a good deal like wavering. And with US supermarket bosses warning of empty shelves around the corner, and US ports expecting traffic from China to significantly slow this month, as Nottingham University’s Chee Meng Tan sets out, there is every reason to expect Trump will cave and open negotiations before Xi Jinping does.




    Read more:
    China has identified how to fight back against Trump’s tariffs, and is not ready to back down


    Many nations now see the US as a far less trustworthy partner now than in the past. The most obvious of these is Canada, which just elected the leader of a party that was 20 percentage points behind in the polls in January and expected to be beaten badly not long ago. But when Trump decided that he wanted Canada as the 51st state, normality went out the window over its northern border.

    This week, newly elected Canadian prime minister Mark Carney said he would seek meetings with Trump with the “full knowledge that we have many, many other options than the United States”, promising to strengthen relations with “reliable partners” in Europe, Asia and elsewhere.

    “We are over the shock of America’s betrayal,” he said. He is ready to write a new foreign policy. He’s not the only one.


    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.


    Two of the US’s firm friends for decades, South Korea and Taiwan, are now not so sure that they see Washington as a dependable ally, according to a report from research organisation the Brookings Institution. It saw a significant jump in the numbers of people who saw the US as untrustworthy from July 2024, to March 2025.

    This matters, as Steve Dunne, a political scientist at the University of Warwick points out, because without trust people and nations are likely not to honour their commitments. After the second world war, the western allies decided to create a series of international bodies to avert such a disaster happening again, and to encourage nations to follow a set of rules that would encourage democracy and trust in each other.

    In his first 100 days, says Dunne, Trump broke the compact of trust with countries that had a long alliance with the US, and that could have a deep impact on the trust that has existed for decades between western nations.




    Read more:
    Donald Trump’s first 100 days have badly damaged trust in America both economically and as an ally


    Global power reducing?

    Declining trust in the US could well reduce other forms of its global power. As well as financially and politically, in the post-war decades the US has influenced the world, by exporting its culture, its films, its television programmes and its ideas, as well as importing tourists to visit its national treasures, from Yosemite national park to New York City.

    In the past 100 days, international tourists are reported to be cancelling their bookings, partly worried about the welcome, or the lack of it, they may encounter at the border. Summer airline bookings from Canada (21%), Germany (17%) and the Netherlands (12%) to the US have fallen significantly for this year, although other countries such as UK show only a minor fall.

    Admittedly, Trump told voters that he wanted to put “America first”. However, at his inauguration, the president declared he wanted to make America the “most respected nation on earth”. That achievement is looking quite far off at the moment. In fact, in many countries it is going the other way.

    That international respect took a significant hit at one of the most remarkable moments of the past 100 days, when Trump proceeded to take Zelensky to task publicly for a range of offences including not being grateful enough for US support and not wearing a suit.

    So what has Trump achieved domestically in his first 100 days and how does that match up against the promises he made? Let’s look at some of the plans he set out in his inauguration speech.

    Trump said he wanted to increase US wealth. But current economic indicators are more than a bit shaky, with US stock markets falling and rising on a regular basis as they follow Trump’s on-and-off-again announcements on tariff negotiations with various countries. On April 30, the day after Trump’s big 100 days rally, stocks fell after data was released showing a contraction in the GDP of the US in the first quarter.

    But Trump has told his supporters that, in the long term, tariffs will work and manufacturing jobs will benefit. So far, Republican voters still believe in Trump’s policies on jobs and the economy, with 82% approving, according to a recent Economist/YouGov poll. Only 8% of Democrats and 32% of independent voters do though.

    Many of the big decisions we have seen playing out in the first 100 days – including the Elon Musk-led dismantling of some parts of government and Trump’s swing at driving down immigration – were detailed in the Project 2025 document, published the conservative think-tank the Heritage Foundation before the election, says Dafydd Townley of the University of Portsmouth. But it also hints at what may come next, including more legislation restricting American women’s access to abortion further.




    Read more:
    How Project 2025 became the blueprint for Donald Trump’s second term


    On January 20 Trump thought that Americans stood “on the verge of the four greatest years in American history”. For many Americans worried about their pensions, savings and the cost of groceries, the future is not looking so great right now. But for those who were sharp focused on cutting immigration, Trump may have made the great start they were hoping for.

    ref. Trump’s Ukraine mineral deal finally lands as US economy shivers – https://theconversation.com/trumps-ukraine-mineral-deal-finally-lands-as-us-economy-shivers-255747

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Join Senate Democrats to Warn Americans About Republicans Cutting SNAP Benefits to Give Tax Breaks to Billionaires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    May 15, 2025
    In an open letter to the American public, Senate Democrats emphasize that Republicans’ plan to give tax breaks to billionaires will decimate funding for SNAP
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, joined Senate Democrats, led by U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), in sending an open letter to the American public warning that congressional Republicans are trying to cut Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in order to give tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans.  After promising to lower prices for families, Republicans in Congress are instead raising grocery costs and making it harder for families to put food on the table.
    “Congress should not give tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans by taking away food assistance from millions of Americans,” wrote the Senators.
    “SNAP supports 42 million Americans, including nearly 8 million seniors, 16 million children, 4 million people with disabilities, and 1.2 million veterans, in putting food on their tables each month. Cuts of this magnitude—or anything close to it—would be devastating to American families in every state,” the Senators continued.
    Along with Duckworth, Durbin and Klobuchar, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mark Warner (D-VA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Chris Coons (D-CT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Gary Peters (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tina Smith (D-MN),  Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT), John Fetterman (D-PA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD).
    Earlier this week, Durbin joined leaders from the Lessie Bates Davis Foodbank to discuss the impact of the Trump Administration’s cuts to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on food pantries.  USDA has halted $1 billion from the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program (LFPA), which reimburses states for purchasing fresh produce from local farmers, which is then distributed to food pantries like the St. Louis Area Foodbank. Without this federal funding, the IL-EATS program, which is funded through USDA’s LFPA program, has been suspended, causing more than 175 small Illinois farmers and hundreds of food banks throughout the state to be left in the lurch.
    The full text of the letter is below and can be found here.
    April 14, 2025
    An open letter to the public:
    The Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans are planning to give another round of tax handouts to the ultra-wealthy and corporations paid for by gutting the food assistance that helps American families pay for groceries at a time when they are struggling to afford food, health care, housing, and other household basic needs. If enacted, cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will have severe consequences for millions of veterans, seniors, children, and hard-working farmers.
    We write to make our position on this legislation perfectly clear: Congress should not give tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans by taking away food assistance from millions of Americans.
    Earlier this year, both the House and the Senate passed budget bills that pave the way for deep cuts to SNAP. The House budget bill would require at least $230 billion in cuts. The Senate bill sets a floor of $1 billion in cuts with nothing to prevent it from going as high as the House bill. This would be a more than 20 percent cut to a program that helps millions of struggling families afford groceries.
    SNAP supports 42 million Americans, including nearly 8 million seniors, 16 million children, 4 million people with disabilities, and 1.2 million veterans, in putting food on their tables each month. Cuts of this magnitude—or anything close to it—would be devastating to American families in every state. SNAP benefits currently average only $6.20 per person per day. At a time when people across the country are struggling with the high cost of groceries, a cut of this magnitude could result in an immediate increase in food costs, dropping the annual, per person SNAP benefit by over $500 per year per person.
    Congressional Republicans might claim that their plan is to merely require states to pay for a portion of food benefits for the first time. In truth, such an unprecedented cost shift could force states to cut benefits, severely restrict program eligibility, or both. If combined with a similar Medicaid cost shift, these unfunded mandates could decimate state budgets and cut healthcare and food assistance for millions of Americans.
    Taking away SNAP would also hurt the farmers who grow our food, the manufacturers that package it, truckers who distribute it, and small businesses in our communities that sell it. Each SNAP dollar stimulates the economy: every $1.00 in food assistance provided by the program in a weak economy generates an additional $1.50 in economic activity. Because adequate nutrition is so important for children’s health and development, the long-term return on investment is even greater: every $1.00 invested in SNAP for children returns $62 in value. In 2020 alone, SNAP supported 200,000 grocery industry jobs and created nearly 45,000 new jobs in supporting industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, and municipal services.
    Republicans are writing the most consequential tax and budget legislation in decades entirely behind closed doors. That’s because Trump and Congressional Republicans must hide the ugly truth—their legislation feeds corporate and wealthy individuals’ greed by taking food assistance away for tens of millions of Americans. You, your family, and your neighbors deserve far better.
    Democrats are fighting to protect Americans’ ability to feed their families from Republican cuts.
    Join us and keep up the fight.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News