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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI: JA MINING: BTC & XRP Enthusiasts Explore Potential Rewards Through Bitcoin Mining

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, April 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin (BTC) and Ripple (XRP) have both shown strong momentum in the past 24 hours. BTC prices stabilized above $94,000, 24-hour trading volume exceeded $20.5 billion, and net inflows of spot ETF funds hit a new high this year, demonstrating the continued favor of institutional investors for crypto assets. At the same time, XRP benefited from the stabilization of the US regulatory situation and the boost of market optimism, and its price performance stabilized and is expected to usher in a new round of breakthroughs.

    As Bitcoin established an upward trend and XRP was ready to go, global investors’ interest in the cryptocurrency market has rapidly heated up. Faced with the growing market heat, cloud computing power mining has become an ideal choice for low-threshold layout of the Bitcoin network. As an industry-leading cloud mining platform, JA Mining helps users easily participate in mining without purchasing equipment with its advantages of green energy mines, daily income settlement, and flexible investment plans, and seize the golden window of digital asset value growth.

    Recently, JA MINING announced its latest development plan in the field of mineral resources, aiming to push the mining industry to new heights through technological innovation and sustainable development strategies. Users can achieve a potential income on the JA MINING platform. As a leading company dedicated to the development of global mineral resources, JA MINING has always been known for its efficient, safe and environmentally friendly operating model.

    Advantages of the JA MINING platform
    ● Hands-free operation: No professional knowledge and expensive mining machines are required, just purchase a cloud mining contract package with one click and start mining immediately!
    ● Daily settlements: Returns are distributed automatically each day.
    ● Safe and reliable: regulated by FCA, funds are safe, and mining income is settled daily.                                                                                                                                             
    ● Flexible and convenient: Supports a variety of mainstream currencies (BTC, ETH, USDC, DOGE, XRP, etc.), and you can choose a variety of cryptocurrencies to deposit and withdraw freely at any time.

    How to start free cloud mining with JA MINING 
    1. Register now to get a $100 bonus 
    2. Choose a contract: After successfully registering, the next step is to choose a mining contract that suits your goals and budget. JAMining offers a variety of contracts to meet different needs, whether you are a beginner or an experienced miner. 
    Choose the contract that suits your investment strategy:

    How to potentially make more money with JA MINING 
    The JA MINING platform has the affiliates function. Users can make money on JA MINING by inviting your friends.Every time the user you recommend purchases a contract, you can get the corresponding promotion reward.
    For more details, please check the platform for more information

    Summary of JA MINING 
    JA MINING  is a leading platform focused on Bitcoin cloud mining, known for its superior AI technology, global mining pool network and user-friendly mobile applications. The platform is committed to providing users with high-yield, low-risk investment opportunities while ensuring financial security and quality services.

    JA MINING is your trusted cryptocurrency cloud mining partner! Join now to seize the opportunity and earn passive income! For more details, please visit:

    Company website: https://jamining.com/
    Company email: info@jamining.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. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risk. There is potential for loss of funds. 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: AFSCME’s Saunders: A historic and relentless assault on working people and unions underscore the first 100 days of this administration

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement marking the first 100 days of the second Trump administration this week:

    “During the campaign, Trump promised to put working people first, lower rising costs on groceries and gas and preserve our earned benefits and health care. Instead, the first one 100 days of this billionaire-run administration have been fueled by lies, broken promises, and a relentless assault on working people and unions.

    “He has handed over the reins of government to billionaires — appointing the wealthiest cabinet in American history, kicking off a trade war that is raising prices on everyday goods, attacking Social Security and Medicaid, cutting wages for workers, and stripping collective bargaining rights from more than 1 million federal employees. The White House claimed it had nothing to do with Project 2025, yet it has already implemented over one-third of the anti-worker agenda, often sidestepping Congress and the courts to do so.

    “The fallout has been immediate. Retirees are left wondering how to navigate Social Security as staff are laid off, offices are closed, and services are cut. People are watching their retirement savings shrink. Lifesaving health and safety regulations have been put on hold. Students with disabilities are losing vital support from the Department of Education. The Department of Health and Human Services is clawing back funding from states, cities and towns to fight infectious diseases as measles is on the rise, and it’s just the beginning. It is clear that Medicaid cuts are next on the agenda, kicking millions of retirees, children and working people off their health care and upending our entire health care system.

    “This administration refuses to reverse course, because its No. 1 goal is to hand out massive tax breaks to billionaires by robbing our communities of public services and workers of our power. Make no mistake — this will devastate our economy.

    “In response, workers across the country are organizing with AFSCME to build real people power. Tens of thousands of public service workers have joined AFSCME since the start of the year. They are getting organized — hosting town halls, mobilizing their co-workers, and flooding Congress with thousands of letters, calls and petitions demanding action to rein in this hostile takeover.

    “In the courts, AFSCME is fighting to stop the mass firings of federal employees, safeguard Americans’ Social Security data, block the unlawful shutdown of federal agencies, challenge cuts of federal grants to state and local governments that fund essential public services, contest the elimination of collective bargaining rights, and more.

    “No matter how this administration attempts to reframe and erase history, we will never forget: It is working people who are the backbone of this nation. We built the middle-class. We built this country, and we will fight to protect our freedom to thrive.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Faculty Group and Ghaf Capital Announce Strategic Merger to Launch Web3 Powerhouse, Ghaf Group

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, April 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a landmark move, Faculty Group and Ghaf Capital today announced their merger to form Ghaf Group, a vertically integrated Web3 advisory business. This strategic union leverages Faculty Group’s full-stack Web3 execution capabilities alongside Ghaf Capital’s elite access to capital markets, sovereign networks, and strategic enterprise relationships across the MENA region and beyond.

    With operations spanning capital allocation, product development, token advisory, liquidity management and marketing, Ghaf Group is uniquely positioned to drive the next wave of blockchain and Web3 growth. The new entity unites over 100 experts across eight subsidiaries under a single, scalable platform committed to delivering institutional-grade solutions and unlocking long-term value across the Web3 economy.

    James Childs, newly appointed CEO of Ghaf Group, commented:

    “This merger is not just an evolution, it’s an inflexion point. Faculty Group has always focused on high-conviction execution in Web3. Now, as Ghaf Group, we bring together global delivery capability with regional strategic access to capital, creating a new category of partner for protocols, corporates, and governments alike.”

    Feras Al Sadek, Chairman of Ghaf Group, added:

    “We’re combining best-in-class infrastructure with unparalleled strategic reach. Ghaf Group will be the trusted bridge between East and West, unlocking capital and capability at scale. This is a defining moment for Web3, and we’re just getting started.”

    The group’s new visual identity, rooted in the symbolism of the resilient Ghaf tree native to the UAE, reflects a commitment to strength, longevity, and organic growth. Ghaf Group is already in advanced discussions with sovereign entities, institutional investors, and emerging protocols as it builds out a robust pipeline for 2025 and beyond.

    Looking ahead, Ghaf Group will accelerate its footprint across MENA and Asia, explore strategic acquisitions, and begin laying the groundwork for a potential UAE-based IPO, positioning itself as a publicly accountable and globally trusted vehicle for Web3 advancement.

    About Ghaf Group

    Ghaf Group is a global Web3 venture platform formed through the merger of Faculty Group and Ghaf Capital. The firm provides integrated services across advisory, token design, venture capital, market-making, marketing, and blockchain development. With strong roots in the Middle East and a global vision, Ghaf Group partners with ambitious founders, forward-looking institutions, and sovereign stakeholders to catalyse the next era of decentralised innovation.

    Media Contact:
    Arvin Nathan
    Head of PR
    an@faculty.group
    hello@ghaf.group

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Ghaf Group. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2754af90-6bf1-4635-b157-7bb32c691abb

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Luis de Guindos: Presentation of the ECB Annual Report 2024 to the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs of the European Parliament

    Source: European Central Bank

    Introductory remarks by Luis de Guindos, Vice-President of the ECB, at the ECON Committee of the European Parliament

    Brussels, 28 April 2025

    It is a pleasure to present the ECB’s Annual Report for 2024 to this esteemed Committee. Concurrently, we are also publishing our response to the European Parliament’s resolution on our previous Annual Report. These elements – our Annual Report, today’s discussion and our response to your resolution – are central to the ECB’s accountability to the European Parliament and highlight the open dialogue between our institutions.

    In my remarks today, I will discuss the economic and financial stability landscape and consider the challenges that lie ahead. I will share the ECB’s assessment and underline the need to invest in measures to enhance Europe’s resilience amid a volatile external environment and an uncertain outlook.

    Economic developments and monetary policy

    As highlighted in the Annual Report, economic activity in the euro area began to recover gradually in 2024. Incoming data suggest modest growth in the first quarter of 2025. However, risks have intensified amid exceptional uncertainty, largely related to trade. Euro area exporters are now facing new barriers, and tensions in financial markets and geopolitical uncertainty will likely weigh on business investment. In this environment, consumers may become cautious about the future and hold back spending.

    In the medium term, a resilient labour market, higher real incomes and the impact of our monetary policy easing should support spending. Moreover, recent policy initiatives focused on defence spending and infrastructure investment at both national and EU levels are expected to positively affect activity and strengthen long-term growth.

    Turning to inflation, headline figures fell further towards the ECB’s 2% target in 2024, supported by our then restrictive monetary policy. Looking ahead, inflation is expected to hover around our target. However, global trade disruptions are adding uncertainty to the inflation outlook. Declining energy prices, further wage moderation and a stronger euro could dampen inflation, potentially amplified by weaker demand for euro area exports and a re-routing of other countries’ exports into the euro area. Conversely, a fragmentation of global supply chains could raise import prices and hence inflation.

    Following a period of holding interest rates steady in early 2024, the ECB started reducing its key interest rates in June. So far, we have lowered the rate on the deposit facility by 175 basis points to 2.25%, in view of the disinflation process being well on track. We are determined to ensure that inflation stabilises sustainably at our 2% medium-term target. Especially given current uncertainty, we will continue to follow a data-dependent and meeting-by-meeting approach to setting the appropriate monetary policy stance, and we are not pre-committing to a particular rate path.

    Maintaining financial stability

    Let me also say a few words on financial stability in the light of recent developments.

    The recent trade policy upheaval has triggered the most significant financial market turmoil since the pandemic. While euro area banks’ valuations have also been affected, their fundamentals remain robust and they are well positioned to withstand potential shocks thanks to their sizeable capital and liquidity buffers.

    But despite the resilience of our financial sector, these developments warrant careful monitoring. Sharp adjustments in financial markets could become disorderly, particularly if they are amplified by the growing size and influence of non-bank financial institutions. In addition, trade conflicts could pose challenges for both households and corporates, translating into rising credit risk for banks and non-banks alike. Finally, a combination of weaker growth and heightened spending needs could increase pressures on government finances.

    To ensure our banking system remains resilient in this environment, we need a regulatory framework that is fit for purpose. Decisive action is required to move us closer to completing the banking union. This includes an effective crisis management and deposit insurance framework that extends to small and medium-sized banks, and progress on a European deposit insurance scheme. The recent financial market turmoil also highlights that non-banks must be subject to robust rules, and that gaps in the regulatory framework need to be closed so they are not treated differently to regular banks.

    The ECB supports efforts to simplify the regulatory framework. However, this should not be confused with deregulation. The resilience of our financial system can largely be attributed to the rules established since the global financial crisis. Financial stability is a global public good – it is in everybody’s interest and must remain the long-term goal.

    Europe’s future policy priorities

    A strong and resilient financial sector will also play a crucial role – alongside the public sector – in financing Europe’s key policy priorities as we confront a series of generational challenges.

    The defence investments foreseen in the EU will have an impact on national public finances. By spending jointly through EU-level initiatives, we can achieve greater scale, reduce costs and strengthen our strategic autonomy – all while supporting long-term growth and fiscal sustainability.

    In addition to the pressing security challenges, investing in the green transition and digital innovation remains vital to boosting Europe’s competitiveness and closing the productivity gap with our global peers.

    Finally, the evolving global landscape underscores the need to strengthen trade within the EU’s Single Market, as emphasised by the European Commission.[1] A more integrated and deeper Single Market is essential if we are to achieve the scale required for European firms to thrive and expand, thereby enhancing our resilience against external shocks. We also need to ensure that innovative firms can access the financing they need in order to grow. In this context, completing the savings and investment union is both urgent and essential.

    Conclusion

    Faced with a complex and uncertain landscape, the ECB remains firmly committed to its primary mandate of maintaining price stability. This is the most important contribution we can make towards fostering a strong and prosperous Europe.

    I know that both our institutions are united by our commitment to serve the people of Europe, within our respective mandates. Our dialogue today is testament to this.

    I now look forward to your questions.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Non-Proliferation, Financing for Development & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Financing for Development
    Deputy Secretary-General
    Victims of Terrorism Associations’ Network
    Trust Fund in Support of Victims of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse
    International Court of Justice
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon/Israel
    Yemen
    Sudan
    Afghanistan
    Myanmar
    Security Council
    International Day
    Resident Coordinator – Samoa
    Financial Contribution
    Briefings Today

    FINANCING FOR DEVELOPMENT
    This morning, the Secretary-General, as you heard, spoke at the Economic and Social Council Forum on Financing for Development.
    He said that, as we prepare for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla in July, we are facing some harsh truths: donors are pulling the plug on aid commitments, the Sustainable Development Goals are dramatically off track and high borrowing costs are draining away public investments.
    But, the more dangerous truth is that collaboration is being questioned with the ongoing trade wars. The Secretary-General said trade is a prime example of the benefits of international cooperation, and trade barriers are a clear and present danger to the global economy and sustainable development.
    These are tough times, he said, but it is in difficult periods that the imperative for responsible, sustainable investment is even more critical.

    DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL
    The Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed is in Montevideo, Uruguay. Today, she met with the President of Uruguay, Yamandú Orsi, to discuss the country’s development priorities and their alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.
    Later today, she will meet with several Government Ministers to discuss the partnership between the United Nations and Uruguay. She is also meeting youth groups, civil society, and of course the country team of the United Nations.
    And over the weekend, she chaired the annual regional retreat with UN Resident Coordinators from across Latin America and the Caribbean.
    Ms. Mohammed will leave Uruguay later today and will be back here tomorrow evening.

    VICTIMS OF TERRORISM ASSOCIATIONS’ NETWORK
    This morning, our friends at the Office of Counter-Terrorism launched the Victims of Terrorism Associations’ Network. This is an initiative that brings together victims of terrorism and victims’ associations from across the globe to drive collective action to support victims’ rights and needs.
    The network aims to provide a safe space for victims and survivors of terrorism to support each other, build resilience and engage as advocates, as educators, and as peacebuilders.
    The development of the network was supported by a financial contribution from Spain.
    The network was launched during an event this morning – and it is already available on UN Webtv. More information on the website of the office of Counter-terrorism.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=28%20April%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMJiomcK2rY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: New Economy Forum Workshop: AI and GovTech in Public Finance

    Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)

    Fiscal institutions in ministries of finance worldwide have been advancing the digital transformation of public finance, recognizing the potential of digital technologies to enhance their operations. Among these technologies, AI has sparked particular interest, with governments exploring its applications across various areas. Governments must grapple with both the potential of AI and the complexities of scaling its implementation effectively and responsibly.

    At the same time, governments, especially in emerging and developing economies, face challenges that hinder progress in digitalizing fiscal operations, including outdated systems, limited interoperability, and difficulties to establish governance frameworks. This workshop comprises two panels to explore how governments are leveraging technologies and how the surge in AI interest has accelerated innovation and raised new expectations, including with AI use cases, setting up projects effectively, and approaching AI responsibly.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBH10woRtR8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Financial support for Georgian civil society and independent media – E-000508/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU has been one of the largest supporters of civil society in Georgia since its independence and remains firmly committed to supporting civil society and independent media in the country.

    Since last summer, the EU has withheld over EUR 120 million worth of bilateral assistance to the Georgian authorities. These funds are currently being redistributed within the Eastern Partnership region based on strategic priorities.

    For Georgia, the Commission tripled its support to civil society organisations (CSOs) and independent media in 2024, i.e. from EUR 5 million originally planned to EUR 15 million.

    This additional funding will come from 2024 allocation as well as reallocation of existing funds and complements the ongoing support for civil society of around EUR 50 million. The Commission is in the process of implementing this support.

    The implementation of financial assistance for civil society and independent media is closely coordinated with Member States and like-minded partners on the ground.

    The Commission will continue to closely monitor and take into account the impact of the latest legislative initiatives on CSOs and independent media. Further support will be made available from 2025-2027 programming funds.

    Last updated: 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Documents required by financial institutions when entering into contracts with clients – E-000321/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Article 18 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union prohibits discrimination on grounds of nationality within the scope of application of the Treaties. Sectorial EU legislation may additionally include specific provisions to prevent discrimination.

    In the area of consumer credits, the Consumer Credit Directive[1] obliges Member States to ensure that the conditions for being granted credit do not discriminate against consumers on the grounds of nationality or place of residence.

    Article 15 of the Payment Accounts Directive[2] prohibits banks from discriminating against consumers, on grounds such as nationality or place of residence, as regards access to bank accounts. However, different documents may be required from consumers for compliance with other EU legislation, for instance Anti-Money Laundering (AML) rules.

    The AML Directive[3] requires obliged entities[4] to adopt a risk-based approach, granting discretion on the measures applied to mitigate customer, geographic and other risks.

    Discriminatory practices would however run counter to the spirit of the directive[5]. Should the alleged discrimination result from national transposing measures and their implementation, note that Member States must act within the limits of EU law and comply with general principles of EU law, including non-discrimination[6].

    Regarding telecommunications activities, the European Electronic Communications Code[7], includes a non-discrimination provision for reasons related to end-users’ nationality or place of residence or of establishment[8].

    Customers may consider directing their concerns to national authorities responsible for alternative dispute resolution in financial services, such as FIN-NET[9] members, consumer affairs or telecommunications.

    • [1] OJ L, 2023/2225, 30.10.2023.
    • [2] Directive 2014/92/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 July 2014 on the comparability of fees related to payment accounts, payment account switching and access to payment accounts with basic features Text with EEA relevance, OJ L 257, 28.8.2014, p. 214-246.
    • [3] OJ L 141, 5.6.2015, p. 73-117.
    • [4] The obliged entities that are subject to Directive (EU) 2015/849 are listed in Article 2 of that directive.
    • [5] Please refer to recitals (65) and (66). Recital (66) emphasises that Member States must ‘ensure that this directive is implemented, as regards risk assessments in the context of customer due diligence, without discrimination’.
    • [6] Judgment of 17 November 2022, SIA ‘Rodl & Partner’, C-562/20, paragraph 49.
    • [7] Directive (EU) 2018/1972 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 establishing the European Electronic Communications Code (Recast), OJ L 321, 17.12.2018, p. 36-214.
    • [8] Article 99 of the European Electronic Communications Code (EECC), states that ‘providers of electronic communications networks or services shall not apply any different requirements or general conditions of access to, or use of, networks or services to end-users, for reasons related to the end-user’s nationality, place of residence or place of establishment, unless such different treatment is objectively justified’. Such ‘objectively justifiable differences in costs and risks’ (as explained in Recital (256) of the EECC) could, for example, be linked to the provision of services at the end-user’s location or refer to a situation where services are denied for reasons of public security.
    • [9] https://finance.ec.europa.eu/consumer-finance-and-payments/retail-financial-services/financial-dispute-resolution-network-fin-net/make-complaint-about-financial-service-provider-another-eea-country_en#what-is-a-financial-services-provider

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Borrowers of loans in Swiss francs – E-000367/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Directive 93/13/EEC[1] requires Member States to ensure that consumers are not bound by unfair contract terms. I t applies to all contracts on the purchase of goods and services[2] including financial services .

    Under Directive 93 /13/EEC as interpreted by the Court of Justice of the European Union , i t is for Greek authorities and courts to assess, based on the circumstances of each case, whether Greek banks comply with their obligations regarding the fairness and transparency of contract terms such as those exposing the borrower to a foreign exchange risk[3], and draw conclusions in each case .

    In particular, contracts continue to be binding without the unfair terms[4] unless this is impossible under national law. The practical consequences of the invalidity of a mortgage loan contract on account of unfair terms are also governed by national law, provided that it allows to restore the situation which the consumer would have been in without the contract[5].

    Finally, remedies enabling consumers to rely on the unfairness of contract terms must be available under conditions which do not hamper the obtention of the protection sought, including through interim measures[6].

    The Commission does not have powers to intervene in individual consumer disputes, to review decisions of national authorities and courts or to order the suspension of property auctioning.

    Regarding Directive 2014/17/EU[7], it introduced specific rules to protect consumers where the credit is dominated in a foreign currency (e.g. explanations for the implications to consumers, right to convert the credit agreement into an alternative currency).

    The directive only applies to mortgage credit contracts concluded as from March 2016, not offering protection for contracts prior to this date.

    • [1] Council Directive 93/13/EEC of 5 April 1993 on unfair terms in consumer contracts, OJ L 95, 21.4.1993, p. 29-34.
    • [2] See Section 5 of Commission Notice — Guidance on the interpretation and application of Council Directive 93/13/EEC of 5 April 1993 on unfair terms in consumer contracts, OJ C 323, 27.9.2019, p. 4-92, COM(2019) 5325 final. However, pursuant to Article 1(2) of Directive 93/13/EEC, the directive does not apply to contract terms that reflect national mandatory statutory provisions, which are applicable independently of the parties’ choice or which are supplementary and apply in the absence of other arrangements between the parties; see for example the judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union of 21 December 2021 in Case C-243 /20 Trapeza Peiraios AE.
    • [3] See for example the judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union of 10 June 2021 in Joined Cases C-776/19 to C-782/19 BNP Paribas Personal Finance SA.
    • [4] Article 6(1) of Directive 93/13/EEC.
    • [5] See for example the judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union of 15 June 2023 in Case C-520/21 Bank M.
    • [6] See for example the judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union of 10 September 2014 in Case C-34/13 Kušionová.
    • [7] Directive 2014/17/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 February 2014 on credit agreements for consumers relating to residential immovable property and amending Directives 2008/48/EC and 2013/36/EU and Regulation (EU) No 1093/2010 Text with EEA relevance, OJ L 60, 28.2.2014, p. 34-85.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Removal of Panama from the list in the annex to Directive (EU) 2018/843 – E-000815/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is committed to adopting an updated EU Anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) list of high-risk third countries as soon as possible.

    The Commission welcomes the constructive dialogue with the European Parliament in late January 2025 and is committed to continue this dialogue with Members of the European Parliament on the EU AML list.

    The Commission is dedicated to improving the efficiency of the AML list update process. Following the entry into force of the new Regulation (EU) 2024/1624[1], the Commission will review its methodology for identifying third countries that present risks for the EU’s financial system.

    The current focus remains on optimising the existing process to ensure it remains robust and responsive to evolving global risks. The Commission values ongoing dialogue with the co-legislators to achieve this objective effectively.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/1624 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 May 2024 on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing, OJ L, 2024/1624, 19.6.2024.
    Last updated: 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Position on initiatives to restructure the external debt of developing countries and reform special drawing rights (SDRs) – E-001569/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001569/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Fabio De Masi (NI)

    Does the Commission support global initiatives within the G20 and the IMF[1][2][3] to restructure the external debt of developing countries and reform the system SDRs?

    Submitted: 17.4.2025

    • [1] https://www.t20brasil.org/media/documentos/arquivos/TF03_ST_02_Reallocating_Specia66e19a93d2b08.pdf
    • [2] https://www.uneca.org/stories/transforming-the-global-financial-architecture-new-report-advocates-for-imf-reforms-to
    • [3] https://aercafrica.org/imf-isnt-doing-enough-to-support-africa-billions-could-be-made-available-through-special-drawing-rights/
    Last updated: 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU dependence on critical raw materials and impact on European industry – E-000995/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Critical Raw Materials Act[1], which entered into force in May 2024, is the main framework to stimulate extraction, processing and recycling of critical raw materials in the EU. It allows the Commission to identify and support strategic projects linked to extraction, processing and recycling of strategic raw materials. Such projects will help develop European value chains and reduce EU dependencies. The Commission adopted a first Decision listing 47 strategic projects in the EU on 25 March 2025[2].

    2. Among the selected strategic projects, three are in Romania and concern the extraction of copper, graphite and magnesium. These strategic projects will benefit from a pre-set permitting timeline of 27 months maximum as well as coordinated support for access to finance and to industrial off takers.

    3. The Critical Raw Materials Act is the main framework to create an integrated European supply chains industry. It is complemented by other initiatives, such as the Net Zero Industry Act[3], the Chips Act[4] and the Automotive Action Plan[5] for other segments of the value chain. These initiatives contribute to the strengthening of European supply chains, the reduction of strategic dependencies and the promotion of EU industrial competitiveness.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1724 and (EU) 2019/1020 (Text with EEA relevance).
    • [2] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/raw-materials/areas-specific-interest/critical-raw-materials/strategic-projects-under-crma/selected-projects_en
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2024/1735 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on establishing a framework of measures for strengthening Europe’s net-zero technology manufacturing ecosystem and amending Regulation (EU) 2018/1724 (Text with EEA relevance).
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2023/1781 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 September 2023 establishing a framework of measures for strengthening Europe’s semiconductor ecosystem and amending Regulation (EU) 2021/694 (Chips Act) (Text with EEA relevance).
    • [5] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions Industrial Action Plan for the European automotive sector https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025DC0095
    Last updated: 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas title company employee sent to prison for orchestrating $350,000 real estate wire fraud scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 55-year-old McAllen resident has been ordered to prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Mayela Saby Cantu pleaded guilty Dec. 20, 2024.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has ordered Cantu to serve 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $350,000 in restitution. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that detailed Cantu’s role in the scheme. The victim also reported the significant loss due to Cantu’s actions and asked the court for a sentence that would operate as a deterrent for others. In handing down the prison term, the court noted the complexity of the scheme and emphasized that Cantu’s role as an escrow officer allowed her to facilitate the scheme.

    At the time of her plea, Cantu admitted she knowingly participated in a scheme that used falsified lien payoff statements, fraudulent warranty deeds and deceptive emails to mislead lenders, title companies and property buyers.

    From November 2020 until her arrest, Cantu defrauded buyers and lenders in multiple property transactions while working at a McAllen title company. Using her position of trust, she facilitated closings backed by falsified documents. In one notable case, she directed others to create a fraudulent email address resembling that of a legitimate lienholder. Cantu then used the fake account to send false payoff amounts via interstate wires, leading a title company to improperly disburse more than $350,000.

    Cantu facilitated additional fraudulent property transactions, including arranging closing on properties that had already been sold and accepting undisclosed cash payments. By concealing the true nature of these deals, she caused significant financial harm to the affected parties.

    She was permitted to remain on bond pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    The FBI, McAllen Police Department and Texas Department of Insurance conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose Garcia prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Independence of the Spanish Independent Authority for Fiscal Responsibility (AIReF) – E-001554/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001554/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Fernando Navarrete Rojas (PPE), Dolors Montserrat (PPE)

    On 18 February 2025, the Spanish Government adopted Royal Decree 100/2025, which unilaterally imposes on the Independent Authority for Fiscal Responsibility (AIReF) the conditions for assessing the ‘closure clause’ of the pension reform negotiated with the Commission.

    AIReF has complained that this Decree ‘undermines its supervisory capacity and its independence’, as it establishes biased methodological criteria. Against this background, it has been forced to publish a second independent opinion on the sustainability of public finances.

    AIReF’s independence is protected by Regulation (EU) No 473/2013, which requires that fiscal institutions are structurally independent and do not take instructions from national budgetary authorities or from other public or private bodies.

    Imposing biased assessment conditions violates this rule and constitutes an attack on AIReF’s independence.

    We would therefore like to ask the Commission the following question:

    What measures will the Commission take to curb the attack on AIReF’s independence under EU law?

    Submitted: 16.4.2025

    Last updated: 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Support for farmers affected by low temperatures in March 2025 – E-001579/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001579/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    In March 2025, Romania was hit by late frosts and sub-zero temperatures after many farmers had already sown their spring crops. These adverse weather conditions caused significant losses, severely affecting agricultural production and farmers’ incomes.

    Late spring frosts also constitute a major threat to fruit growing, especially during the flowering season, when fruit trees are extremely vulnerable. Sub-zero temperatures at this critical stage of development are liable to seriously compromise this year’s production.

    • 1.Given that in February 2025 the Commission allocated EUR 98,6 million from the agricultural reserve to support farmers in certain Member States affected by natural disasters and extreme weather events, would it not consider it appropriate to extend these measures to Romanian farmers affected by the frosts in March 2025?
    • 2.What concrete measures is the Commission considering to financially support farmers in Romania affected by these exceptional climatic conditions?

    Submitted: 18.4.2025

    Last updated: 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 4 resources to enrich Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the classroom

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: 4 resources to enrich Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the classroom

    Discover engaging AAPI Heritage Month 2025 classroom activities to explore the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of AAPI communities.

    In the US, we dedicate the month of May to Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month—a time to honor and celebrate the deep histories, rich cultures, and significant contributions of these communities. Explore our list of AAPI Heritage Month classroom activities, designed to make learning impactful and engaging. Our focus remains on fostering a workplace that reflects the global communities we engage with, driving innovation and delivering meaningful outcomes for our partners and customers.

    Discover four ways to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month 2025 and foster a broad perspective on the contributions and achievements of AAPI communities. These resources help inspire curiosity, support critical thinking, and connect students to the powerful stories of AAPI individuals who have shaped our world.

    1. Immerse your classroom in the culture of Ngā Motu

    Use Minecraft Education to explore vast worlds outside of your classroom. In Ngā Motu (The Islands), students learn about the indigenous culture of the Māori people, from language to architecture, arts, and economics. Take an immersive visit from the maunga (mountain) to the ākau (shore) and everything in between to learn about the Māori language and culture. Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Ngā Motu and discover the wonders of Māori culture!

    Explore Ngā Motu

    Classroom connection: Before getting started, review the supporting resources on the Ngā Motu lesson page. You’ll find a lesson plan, an introductory video, and a resource pack that includes traditional pā (settlement) and ride waka hourua (boats) to enhance the experience for students.

    2. Explore AAPI topics through targeted reading practice

    Reading Coach is a free, standalone Learning Accelerator that helps students develop reading fluency skills through personalized, AI-powered reading practice. When students read aloud, Reading Coach provides real-time feedback on pronunciation, syllabification accuracy, and reading progress.

    Use Reading Coach to seamlessly blend AAPI topics into reading practice while supporting each student’s literacy growth. Students can use the “Add your own passage” mode to upload texts, like assigned articles, textbook excerpts, or their own writing. You can tailor practice to individual learning needs and objectives with Reading Coach, while enhancing engagement with AAPI heritage and history. Help learners discover the joy of reading with Reading Coach.

    Get started with Reading Coach

    Classroom connection: Browse this collection of AAPI books for inspiration and ideas on finding relevant passages for your students. Reading Coach also has built-in passages for each reading level that students can read to learn more about AAPI cultures.

    3. Develop communication skills while learning AAPI heritage

    Communication skills are essential for success. As students explore AAPI figures, culture, and history, they can develop multimedia presentations to showcase their findings. Use Speaker Progress and Speaker Coach, two Learning Accelerators, to help develop your students’ public speaking skills.

    Use Speaker Progress to create presentation assignments and track your students’ growth at the individual, class, grade, and school levels. Then have your students use Speaker Coach to complete the assignment, while receiving real-time, AI-powered feedback on pacing, pitch, clarity and more. Discover how Speaker Progress and Speaker Coach can help build communication confidence in your classroom.

    Explore Speaker Progress and Speaker Coach

    Classroom connection: Have students present on influential AAPI figures like Suni Lee, Senator Tammy Duckworth, or Shohei Ohtani. They can develop their communication skills and build their confidence by independently practicing their presentation with Speaker Coach before presenting to their class or community.

    4. Enhance lesson planning with Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat

    Copilot Chat can help you create customized materials, activities, and lessons. Use it to design engaging content that connects students with the history and contributions of AAPI communities.

    Try Copilot Chat

    Streamline and innovate your lesson planning process by starting with one of these ready-to-use prompts in Copilot Chat and customizing it for your needs:

    • Design a STEAM lesson plan for elementary students that explores traditional AAPI art or inventions. Include hands-on activities that connect art and science, step-by-step instructions, and reflection prompts to help students connect culture to creativity and innovation.
    • Create a 1-week high school ELA or Humanities lesson plan where students research and analyze the impact of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander artists and writers on contemporary culture. Include learning objectives, suggested artists/authors (e.g., Ruth Asawa, Yo-Yo Ma), and key discussion questions.
    • Help me update an existing lesson plan to include meaningful perspectives from Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. I want to keep the original learning objectives intact but integrate AAPI voices, content, or activities into the texts, resources, and activities sections. [Attach a lesson plan or provide subject, grade, and learning objectives]

    Try using Copilot Chat for lesson planning, brainstorming, creating images, getting quick answers to your questions, and more. Build your competency with AI and Copilot with the Copilot Chat learning module.

    Start the learning module

    Honor AAPI Heritage Month by exploring the remarkable people, vibrant cultures, and significant contributions that have enriched our world. Use the time to design engaging, immersive learning experiences that foster essential skills like literacy, communication, and critical thinking. Inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation both in and beyond your classroom with AAPI Heritage Month classroom activities from Microsoft Education.

    The code of us

    At Microsoft, we believe different perspectives lead to a brighter future. Discover stories of innovation and inspiration from Microsoft employees and artists. The Code of Us isn’t just what we create—it’s who we are. Employees, their stories, and their truths are what power Microsoft. This Heritage Month, The Code of Us is all about celebrating the vibrant culture and incredible impact of the AAPI community at Microsoft.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Reps. Frost, Garcia, Ansari, and Dexter Arrive in El Salvador to Pressure Trump Administration To Abide By Supreme Court Order And Facilitate Return of Wrongly Deported Maryland Man, Kilmar Abrego Garcia

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)

    April 20, 2025

    San Salvador, El Salvador – Today, U.S. Representatives Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Robert Garcia (D-CA), Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ), and Maxine Dexter (D-OR) announced that they have arrived in El Salvador to pressure the Trump Administration to abide by a Supreme Court order to facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man with protected legal status who was unlawfully deported by the Trump Administration. Mr. Abrego Garcia is currently detained in El Salvador despite having no criminal conviction in the United States, a direct violation of due process protected by the Constitution. 

    The Congressional Members are in El Salvador to bring attention to President Trump’s illegal defiance of the binding and unanimous Supreme Court decision in Noem v. Abrego Garcia that demands the Administration facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return and due process in the United States. 

    This visit comes after the Trump Administration admitted that Mr. Abrego Garcia’s detention was an “error” but refused to abide by a federal judge and the Supreme Court’s orders to facilitate Mr. Abrego Garcia’s return home. Members will also advocate for other detainees who are being held without due process. 

    This trip is not being financed by taxpayer dollars and comes after Chairman James Comer refused to approve Garcia and Frost’s request for an official CODEL.

    “Donald Trump and his Administration are running a government-funded kidnapping program– illegally arresting, jailing, and deporting innocent people with zero due process. Kilmar Abrego Garcia is Trump’s latest victim,” said Congressman Maxwell Frost. “As Members of Congress it is our responsibility to hold the President and Administration accountable for defying the constitution of the United States. Donald Trump and ICE are not above the law. Today it’s Kilmar, but tomorrow it could be anyone else. We cannot and will not let Donald Trump get away with this.”

    “While Donald Trump continues to defy the Supreme Court, Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia is being held illegally in El Salvador after being wrongfully deported,” said Congressman Robert Garcia. “That is why we’re here– to remind the American people that kidnapping immigrants and deporting them without due process is not how we do things in America. We are demanding the Trump Administration abide by the Supreme Court decision and give Kilmar and the other migrants mistakenly sent to El Salvador due process in the United States.”

    “My parents fled an authoritarian regime in Iran where people were ‘disappeared’ – I refuse to sit back and watch it happen here, too. Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s illegal abduction and President Trump’s complete disregard of due process and a unanimous Supreme Court ruling are deeply disturbing. We should all be appalled by this treatment by the United States government,” said Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari. “I’m in El Salvador to advocate for the Trump Administration to facilitate his safe return home, and make sure Trump’s attack on our Constitution and due process stops now. Trump has already threatened to illegally deport ‘home-growns’ and American citizens. If this can happen to Mr. Abrego Garcia, it can happen to any of us. This is a constitutional crisis. ”

    “What happened to Kilmar Abrego Garcia is not just one family’s nightmare—it is a constitutional crisis that should outrage every single one of us,” said Congresswoman Maxine Dexter. “We will not rest while due process is discarded, and our constitutional rights are ignored. We will be loud in demanding that the Trump Administration abide by the Supreme Court’s decision and uphold the rule of law. Because if this can happen to Mr. Abrego Garcia, it can happen to anyone.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint Chairs appointed for Caithness Committee

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    First thing on the agenda at today’s Caithness Committee was to elect a new Chair to take over from Cllr Ron Gunn who has held the role since July 2022. The committee have taken the decision to have a joint chair arrangement between Councillor Andrew Jarvie and Councillor Karl Rosie. 

    The duty of chairing the regular Caithness Committee meetings will currently fall to Councillor Andrew Jarvie.

    He said: “I am honoured to be given this opportunity to serve Caithness as joint chair and I would like to thank Councillor Gunn who has held the role since 2022.

    “I stood for election in Caithness because I saw so many tremendous opportunities for the County and abundance of highly skilled people, despite the mood music from too many organisations being rather negative about Caithness’s prospects. I have only seen the odds of those opportunities begin to come a financial reality with the Highland Investment Plan, so I cannot think of a more exciting time to take on this role.

    “There is not much time remaining in my Council term, so getting on with doing what matters and not hosting endless meetings is my priority. It is also why I wanted two people to take this on as co-chairs, because there is more work to be done outside of Committee meetings than in them.

    “The priorities are simple, making best use of the Highland Investment Plan to fix our roads and build the future infrastructure, encouraging economic development and improving connectivity for both business and leisure – such as the Wick Airport PSO.”

    Joint Chair, Councillor Karl Rosie added: “I too look forward to serving in my new role and working to represent Caithness’ best interests.”

    All Council Wards receive a discretionary budget, and it is for Ward Councillors to consider what they wish to commit funds to, in line with Highland Council objectives and outcomes.

    During today’s meeting the Committee reflected on the Discretionary Awards they have allocated to applicants over the last financial year.

    Today’s Chair Councillor Jarvie said: “It is always a privilege and a pleasure for Ward Councillors to make discretionary budget awards. One of the most rewarding aspects is that it allows members to utilise their local knowledge and work with local organisations to make positive improvements to our communities.

     “On behalf of the Committee, I’d like to wish all the successful applicants the very best with their projects.”

    Thurso and Northwest Caithness Ward Discretionary Budget applications approved 1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025

    • Community Food Initiatives North East – Fareshare in Highland – £1,690.00
    • Caithness Chamber of Commerce – Caithness Transport Forum – £500.00
    • Pentland Firth Yacht Club – Replacement Windows – £1,450.00
    • Highlife Highland – Active School Coaching & Equipment – £1,500.00
    • Sidh Chailleann Art – “Industrial Caithness” Exhibition – £1,000.00
    • Thurso Youth Club SCIO – Holiday Activities £1,000.00
    • Thurso Community Council – Thurso Town Centre initiative 2024 – £400.00
    • Association of Caithness Community Council – Village officer Funding – £3,200.00
    • Connecting Carers Caithness – £1,916.00
    • Caithness Voluntary Group – Winter Support 24/25 – £1000.00

    Wick and East Caithness Ward Discretionary Budget applications approved 1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025

    • Community Food Initiatives North East – Fareshare in Highland – £2,763.00
    • Caithness Chamber of Commerce – Caithness Transport Forum – £500.00
    • Highlife Highland – Youth Session Resources – £999.00
    • Argyll Square Area Association – Replacement Litter Bin – £561.60
    • Association of Caithness Community Council – Village officer Funding – £5,300.00
    • Caithness Voluntary Group – Winter Support 24/25 – £2,000
    • Dunbeath & District Centre – Back Office Support £2,276.40

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: HIREP unveils ten-year strategy for regional growth

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Issued by Highlands and Islands Enterprise on behalf of HIREP 

     A partnership of public, private and academic organisations in the Highlands and Islands has unveiled its ten-year strategy to deliver sustainable economic growth across the region.  

    The Highlands and Islands Regional Economic Partnership (HIREP)’s Regional Economic Strategy 2025-2035 presents a vision of a thriving, resilient and inclusive region in 2035. 

    Aligning with the goals of member organisations, the strategy addresses the challenges affecting the region’s businesses and communities, including high cost of living, population and connectivity.  

    It sets out the importance of regional-scale collaborative actions necessary to address those challenges while capitalising on ‘once-in-a-generation’ opportunities that could deliver thousands of jobs and millions of pounds into the economy.  
    Informed by research, analysis, stakeholder surveys and a consultation, it spells out a commitment to deliver high quality, affordable housing as well as enhanced transport and digital infrastructure.  

    There’s a focus on renewable energy and the need to maximise economic and community benefits while driving the region’s transition to net zero emissions.  

    The need to enhance skills and workforce capabilities to meet future demands is emphasised. 

    Current chair of HIREP is Cllr Raymond Bremner, Leader of The Highland Council. He said: “The Highlands and Islands is a region with tremendous potential. Realising that potential and building a vibrant economy and leading Scotland’s transition to net zero requires collaboration on a very broad scale. 

    “That’s what this strategy is all about. It’s a major step in our joint efforts to build a dynamic, connected, resilient and prosperous Highlands and Islands. I very much look forward to working with the HIREP partners to deliver the actions that will make a real and lasting difference.” 

    HIREP was established in 2021 to bring together public, private, academic and third sector interests in pursuit of economic opportunities and addressing challenges across the region. It is one of eight Regional Economic Partnerships in Scotland. Since its inception, it has worked across several policy areas including housing, population attraction and retention, skills, childcare, and community wealth building, as well as sectoral opportunities.  

    It emphasises collaboration, community benefit and leveraging regional strengths to address unique challenges and opportunities. HIREP plays a key role in a developing a regional vision for delivery of the Scottish Government’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET). 
    Membership of the HIREP includes local authorities, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Skills Development Scotland, Scottish Funding Council, UHI, NatureScot, VisitScotland, Bord na Gaidhlig, HITRANS, Cairngorm National Park Authority, the Crofting Commission, business representatives and third sector organisations. 

    The full strategy is available on the HIREP website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IEPFA Hosts Preparatory Meeting with Stakeholder Companies for ‘Niveshak Shivir’ Initiative

    Source: Government of India

    IEPFA Hosts Preparatory Meeting with Stakeholder Companies for ‘Niveshak Shivir’ Initiative

     “Niveshak Shivir” is an Initiative with dedicated Company Kiosks to help Investors Claim Unclaimed Dividends

    Pilot Phase of ‘Niveshak Shivir’ Will be  Launched in Mumbai and Ahmedabad in May 2025, with One-Stop Helpdesks for KYC Updates and Claims Assistance

    Posted On: 28 APR 2025 8:21PM by PIB Delhi

    In a step forward to enhance investor services and streamline the claims process, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the aegis of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, convened a preparatory meeting with Nodal Officers of stakeholder companies through video conference on April 28, 2025 chaired by Smt. Anita Shah Akella, Chief Executive Officer, IEPFA. This meeting was aimed at finalizing operational details for “Niveshak Shivir” – a collaborative initiative of IEPFA and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). It was decided that Niveshak Shivir will be organised in the cities having large number of investors whose dividends are lying unclaimed with Companies for a period of six to seven years. As part of this initiative, selected companies with highest number of investors in unclaimed dividend account will be invited to set up dedicated kiosks at these events to assist investors directly.

     

    “Niveshak Shivir” has been conceived to simplify procedures for claiming unclaimed dividends and shares, improve financial literacy among investors, and ensure direct and transparent access to investor services. By facilitating direct interaction with companies and Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTAs), and by offering immediate grievance redressal support, this initiative is set to significantly reduce investors’ dependency on intermediaries and mitigate risks of fraud and misinformation.

    The strategic meeting outlined the pilot phase of the initiative, which will be launched in Mumbai and Ahmedabad in May 2025. These camps will serve as one stop comprehensive helpdesks where investors can update their KYC and nomination details, check the status of their unclaimed assets and receive guided assistance for reclaiming their investments – whether assets are still with companies or have been transferred to IEPFA.

    Officials from IEPFA, SEBI, companies, and RTAs will be present on ground to assist investors, ensuring a robust and supportive framework. Pre-registration for the camps will be enabled through a QR code-linked Google Form, with additional logistic support extended by regional offices of ICAI and SEBI.

    About IEPFA

    The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) is committed to promoting investor awareness and protection in India through various educational initiatives and strategic collaborations, ensuring an informed and secure investing populace.

    Find out more at: https://www.iepf.gov.in/content/iepf/global/master/Home/Home.html

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Aadhaar authentication surges past 2,707 crore in 2024-25; UIDAI’s face authentication gains momentum

    Source: Government of India

    Aadhaar authentication surges past 2,707 crore in 2024-25; UIDAI’s face authentication gains momentum

    UIDAI wins Prime Minister’s Award for innovation as Aadhaar face authentication sees record adoption

    Aadhaar e-KYC transactions cross 44.63 crore in March 2025, boosting ease of business across sectors

    Posted On: 28 APR 2025 5:51PM by PIB Delhi

    In a clear sign of its growing adoption and utility, Aadhaar number holders carried out more than 2,707 crore authentication transactions in 2024-25 including 247 crore such transactions in March alone.

    Aadhaar has been an enabler of digital economy and the increasing adoption shows its growing role across sector including banking, finance, telecom, and for the smooth delivery of benefits under various government schemes and services.

    The total number of authentication transactions in March 2025 (246.75 Cr) is higher than the transactions clocked during the same period last year as well as in February 2025.  Since inception, the cumulative number of authentication transactions have crossed over 14,800 crore.

    The AI/ML based Aadhaar Face Authentication solutions developed in house by UIDAI has been witnessing significant growth. In March more than 15 crore such transactions took place, indicative of the growing usage, adoption of this authentication modality and how it is benefiting Aadhaar number holders seamlessly. More than 100 entities both in government and private sector are using face authentication for smooth delivery of benefits and services.

    On 21 April, UIDAI received the prestigious Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration. This was presented under the Innovation category for UIDAI’s Face Authentication modality.

    Aadhaar e-KYC service continues to play a crucial role in improving customer experience and adding ease of doing business in sectors including banking and non-banking financial services.

    The total number of eKYC transactions (44.63 Cr) carried out during March 2025 is over 6% more than the numbers during the same period last year. The cumulative number of e-KYC transactions has touched 2356 crore as on 31 March 2025.

    Similarly, 20 lakh new Aadhaar numbers were generated in March 2025 and over 1.91 crore Aadhaars were updated successfully following submissions from Aadhaar number holders.  

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh Calls for Infrastructure Boost, Sustainable Practices in the Fisheries Sector at Coastal States Fisheries Meet 2025 in Mumbai

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 APR 2025 6:38PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 28 April 2025

     

    While inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for key fisheries projects worth Rs. 255 crores at the Coastal States Fisheries Meet in Mumbai today, Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh highlighted the creation of the Regional Fisheries Council, progress under schemes like the Blue Revolution, Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Fisheries Infrastructure Development Fund and emphasized on tapping India’s vast marine resources. The coastal States Fisheries Meet saw extensive participation from across all coastal states and UTs across the country. The event was graced by Ministers of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Shri George Kurian. Dignitaries attending the event also included Shri Nitesh Neelam Narayan Rane, Minister of Fisheries, Government of Maharashtra, Raghavjibhai Patel, Minister of Fisheries, Government of Gujarat, Shri. Nilkanth Halarnkar, Minister of Fisheries, Government of Goa, Shri Mankala S Vaidya, Minister of Fisheries, Government of Karnataka, along with officials from the Department of Fisheries, State Fisheries Departments, ICAR Institutes and Bay of Bengal Programme (BoBP).

    In his address, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, emphasized on developing infrastructure in Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, enhancing value addition in exports, promoting conservation measures in the fisheries sector while discouraging harmful fishing practices. Key initiatives including deploying artificial reefs, creating climate-resilient villages, providing safety transponders, sanctioning Kisan Credit Cards, and supporting women’s empowerment through mariculture and seaweed farming, underlining the importance of Centre-State cooperation for the sector’s growth were also outlined by the Union Minister.

    Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, said that the significant progress made under the Blue Revolution and PMMSY, as lead to India becoming the second-largest fish producer globally. The substantial investments made in infrastructure and livelihoods through schemes like PMMSY and PMMKSY, which have led to a doubling of fish production and a rise in exports were also highlighted by him. Prof. Baghel spoke about the role of innovative farming methods, development of digital platforms, and empowerment of women in the sector. He stressed the need for continued cooperation between the Centre and states to promote sustainable practices, enhance marine culture, and position the fisheries sector as a key contributor to the national economy.

    Shri George Kurian, laid emphasis on the need for  strong collaboration between the Centre and States in advancing the fisheries sector. Highlighting the Blue Revolution and Prime Minister  Narendra Modi’s vision of the “blue chakra” symbolizing the ocean economy’s vast potential, the Minister of State noted that various departmental initiatives have strengthened the sector, improved nutrition and is driving economic growth for nearly 3 crore people in the country. He also highlighted that in future fisheries resources within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone will be harnessed and seaweed farming will be further promoted. expanding artificial reef deployment, distributing 1 lakh safety transponders to fishermen, and developing 100 climate-resilient coastal villages was also outlined.

    Dr Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, MoFAH&D, stated that the Indian fisheries sector has grown significantly with a 9.8% growth since 2014-15. He said that the underutilized potential of India’s 11,000 km coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone, particularly the untapped tuna resources in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep need to be harnessed. Dr. Likhi stressed the need for enhanced infrastructure, including the development of smart harbours and the amendment of the Marine Fisheries Regulation Act to address the modern infrastructural challenges. Issues of expanding mariculture activities like seaweed farming and cage culture, enhancing security measures through biometric IDs and transponders, and state governments to utilize the extended PMMSY funding for further sectoral growth  were also highlighted by him.

    The Coastal States Fisheries Meet 2025 featured key technical sessions including Strengthening Marine Fisheries Governance: Integrating Marine Fisheries Regulation Acts (MFRAs), Monitoring, Control & Surveillance (MCS), and Sea-Safety; Model Mariculture SOPs; Standard Operating Procedure of the Vessel Communication and Support System (VCSS); Export Promotion – Processing, Value Chain & Quality Improvements; and Promotion of Traceability and Certification in Marine Capture Fisheries.

    This meeting provided a crucial platform for the  Fisheries Ministers of all coastal states and Union Territories, along with government officials and key fisheries stakeholders, to engage in meaningful and constructive dialogue. It served as an important opportunity for the participants to share insights on the successes and advancements made by various coastal states in the fisheries sector, highlighting best practices and innovative solutions that have been implemented so far. The discussions focused not only on the achievements but also on the persistent challenges faced by the sector, such as infrastructure gaps, resource management issues, and the need for modernized fishing techniques. The focus was on strengthening fisheries governance, enhancing infrastructure, fostering innovation, and improving market linkages, all of which contributed to increased productivity, enhanced livelihoods, and sustained economic growth in coastal regions.

     

    * * *

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IEPFA Signs MoU with Kotak Mahindra Bank to Enhance Investor Education through Digital outreach

    Source: Government of India

    IEPFA Signs MoU with Kotak Mahindra Bank to Enhance Investor Education through Digital outreach

    MoU strengthens Strategic Partnership to step up Investor Awareness 

    Posted On: 28 APR 2025 8:25PM by PIB Delhi

     In a significant move to enhance investor education and protection, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the aegis of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL), one of India’s premier financial institutions. This strategic partnership aims to amplify the dissemination of critical investor awareness messages through Kotak Mahindra Bank’s extensive physical and digital network across the country.

    The collaboration will see IEPFA’s curated investor education content being prominently featured on Kotak Mahindra Bank’s ATMs, kiosks, websites, mobile apps and social media platforms. Digital banners, short films, and educational videos produced by IEPFA will be showcased to raise awareness on responsible investing, financial fraud prevention, and the protection of investor’s rights.

    This initiative is designed to be rolled out during the current financial year 2025-2026, with no financial obligation on IEPFA. The partnership leverages Kotak Mahindra Bank’s widespread domestic presence of 2000+ branches and 3000+ ATMs, ensuring impactful outreach to diverse segments of the population.

    Under the leadership of Smt. Anita Shah Akella, CEO of the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) and Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, IEPFA continues to drive innovative collaborations for financial empowerment. Smt. Samiksha Lamba, Deputy General Manager, IEPFA, and Mr. Vishal Agarwal, Senior Vice President and Head at Kotak Mahindra Bank, exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reinforcing trust in our financial ecosystem.

    Since its inception, the IEPFA has conducted several Investor Awareness Programmes aimed at increasing financial literacy and empowering investors to protect themselves from financial fraud.

    About IEPFA

    The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority, established under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, safeguards investor interests by promoting financial literacy and protecting investor rights.

    About Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited

    Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited, one of India’s premier financial institutions, serves millions of customers through its extensive network of over 2,000 branches and 3,000 ATMs, offering innovative banking and financial solutions.

    *****

     NB/AD

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DARPG organized the 5th National Workshop on “Sevottam and Effective Redressal of Public Grievances”, at the Institute of Management in Government (IMG), Kerala.

    Source: Government of India

    DARPG organized the 5th  National Workshop on “Sevottam and Effective Redressal of Public Grievances”, at the Institute of Management in Government (IMG), Kerala.

    More than 100officials from ATIs and State Governments participated in the workshop held on 25th April, 2025 at the Institute of Management in Government (IMG), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

    Workshop formulated the roadmap forward for Capacity Building and Effective Redressal of Public Grievances in line with the directions of the Prime Minister

    Posted On: 28 APR 2025 4:05PM by PIB Delhi

    In line with the Prime Minister’s emphasis on effective grievance resolution as a cornerstone of transparent and accountable governance, the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) organized the5thNational Workshop on “Sevottam and Effective Redressal of Public Grievances” on April 25th, 2025, at the Institute of Management in Government (IMG), Kerala.

    The Workshop commencedin the presence of Shri K. Jayakumar, Director, Institute of Management in Government (IMG), Shri V Srinivas, Secretary, DARPG , Jaya Dubey, Joint Secretary, DARPG and other participants from various State Government ATIs and AR Departments.  The inaugural session featured a keynote presentation by Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary, DARPG, which outlined key reforms in grievance redressal including multilingual support via Bhashini, advanced CPGRAMS features, and strengthened monitoring, aimed at enhancing citizen satisfaction. 18 Speakers from Government of Kerala, Government of India, non-profit foundations and technological organisations apart from NIC and NeGD attended the event.

    The workshop unfolded across five sessions, each featuring practitioner oriented presentations regarding best practices in public grievances, use of technology tools and role of non-profit organisations in grievance redressal. Separate sessions were held by the Administrative Staff College of India (ASCII) who in their role as knowledge partner of which were supposed to suggest model capacity building modules for ATIs. Certain draft Sevottam rules were also opened for discussion with various State Governments by Professor Nirmalaya Bagchi of ASCII. Shri Chakravarthy T. Kannan, Secretary General, Quality Council of India, shared insights on the evolving categorization framework in CPGRAMS and its impact in simplifying grievance filing – making the process more intuitive, accessible, and citizen-centric.Centre for Good Governance, Hyderabad released their draft model for ranking of State Governments on Grievance Redressal. Suggestion on both the above points wererequested from all State ATIs and State Governments. Representatives of Government of Kerala includedSmt. Anu Kumari, District Collector Trivandrum, Smt. Veena Madhavan, Special Secretary Administrative Reforms, and Shri Sreeram Sambasiva Rao, Special Secretary, IT. Shri Amitabh Nag, CEO Bhashini, Shri K Krishnakumar, CTO, e-Gov Foundation, Shri Varun Hemachandran Team Lead Agami and Shri Nisheeth Srivastava, Professor, IIT Kanpur also spoke in the event. Key areas of focus included policy reforms, best practices, capacity building, and innovative solutions aimed at enhancing service delivery and boosting citizen satisfaction.

    Under this Sevottam Scheme, DARPG provides financial support to State ATIs/CTIs for setting up Sevottam Training Cells. Over the past three financial years (2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25), as part of Sevottam, 756 training courses have been conducted, training 24,942 officers from various State Governments. In the past financial year 2 National Workshops on “Effective Redressal of Public Grievances” on November 18, 2024, in New Delhi and February 20, 2025, in Bhopal, with participation from Central Ministries, State Governments, and State Administrative Training Institutes (ATIs) were already conducted. The National workshop served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, bringing together diverse stakeholders to deliberate on best practices, innovative strategies, and key reforms in grievance redressal.

    ***

    NKR/PSM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Coastal States Fisheries Meet 2025: Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh Launches Projects Worth Rs.255 Crores in Mumbai; Awards First Ever Aqua Insurance to Fisherfolk

    Source: Government of India

    Coastal States Fisheries Meet 2025: Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh Launches Projects Worth Rs.255 Crores in Mumbai; Awards First Ever Aqua Insurance to Fisherfolk

    5th Marine Fisheries Census Goes Digital: VyAS-NAV App Enabled Tablets Distributed; Guidelines on Turtle Excluder Device & SOP for Vessel Communication and Support System Issued

    Posted On: 28 APR 2025 4:33PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 28 April 2025

     

    A “Coastal States Fisheries Meet: 2025” was organized today on 28th April 2025 in  Mumbai under the chairmanship of Union Minister, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D) and Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh. The event also saw the gracious presence of Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Shri George Kurian, Minister of State, MoFAH&D and Ministry of Minority Affairs along with Governors and  Fisheries Ministers of several coastal states and UTs. On this occasion, Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, inaugurated and laid the foundation for key projects for 7 coastal states and UTs with a total outlay of Rs.255 crores under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Key initiatives like the 5th Marine Fisheries Census Operations, PMMSY Guidelines on Turtle Excluder Device and release of Standard Operating Procedure for Vessel Communication and Support System were also launched at the Coastal States Fisheries Meet. The Union Minister also distributed tablets enabled with Digital Application VyAS-NAV  and awarded the first ever aqua insurance (One Time Incentive Sanction-cum-Release Order) to beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) on this occasion. Today marks the beginning of the 5th Marine Census operations which involves training of the supervisors, recruitment and training the village wise data enumerators, followed by the actual census activity spread across 3 months. The entire operation will be completed by December 2025.

     

    5th Marine Fisheries Census Goes Digital: VyAS-NAV App

    In a major preparatory step for India’s 5th Marine Fisheries Census (MFC 2025), a mobile application VyAS-NAV has been launched for the digital based data collection with an aim to boost transparency and efficiency. Marking a shift from traditional method to a geo-referenced, app-based digital system, the MFC 2025 will cover a 1.2 million fisher households nationwide bringing in real-time validation. This mammoth exercise is coordinated by the Department of Fisheries (DoF) of the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). VyAS-NAV was developed by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) which is the nodal agency for implementing the marine fisheries census in nine coastal states. VyAS-NAV app will be used by supervisors for field verification of fishing villages, fish landing centres and fishing harbours. This is a foundational step towards ensuring comprehensive coverage and accuracy of the census frame.  This app has features to record summary picture of villages based on primary and secondary sources. The supervisors are staff of CMFRI, Fishery Survey of India and the Fisheries Departments across the coastal states.

     

    About Marine Fisheries Census-2025

    The Marine Fisheries Census (MFC) -2025 focuses on the exhaustive, precise, and timely documentation of every marine fisher family, fishing village, fishing craft and gear, as well as infrastructure facilities associated with fishing harbours and fish landing centres across the country. Unlike in the past, customized mobile and tablet-based applications created by CMFRI will be used for data collection in a bid to reduce manual errors and accelerate data compilation for policy-level use. This MFC is a process that starts with the signaling of field operations and ends with the reporting. The reference period where the household enumeration takes place is the core activity. In this case it is November – December 2025. Various constituents of this process are referred to as census operations. As of now, many such activities are planned in the pre core census phase. The first of it is, validation of Marine Fisheries villages is inaugurated today. This will be followed by a round of workshops followed two rounds of training. These all, form part of the Marine Fisheries Census. Roughly 3500 villages and 1.2 million households will be covered in this exercise at various points in time. The village enumeration will be finalized by May- June, while family level data and other facilities will be covered during Nov-Dec, which will be done by enumerators from the village and probably fishing community. In nutshell the operations span from April to December. The village list finalization and landing centres data will be covered by staff of CMFRI, FSI and DoF and the same has started from today. The core activity, scheduled for November–December 2025, involves trained enumerators preferably from the local community, visiting each marine fisher household with smart devices. This is preceded by a robust preparatory phase. Emphasis will be given to record finer details of fishers like their demographic and socio-economic status, alternative livelihood options, and how and where government schemes can influence their status, all collected through a robust online digital platform. Officials will train enumerators in digital data collection and will validate village and infrastructure details using VyAS-NAV.

     

    Summary of Activities and Timeline:

    Timeline

    Activity

    Nov 21, 2024

    Official announcement and approval during World Fisheries Day celebrations

    Nov 2024 – April 2025

    Preparatory work: schedule finalization, development of VyAS-NAV application and preliminary groundwork

    April 2025 – Nov 2025

    Pre-census marine fishing village list validation, enumerator identification, staff recruitment, training of supervisors/enumerators, App development and testing, craft & gear census (across harbours and landing centres)

    Nov – Dec 2025

    45-day full-scale Marine Fisheries Census field exercise – Enumerators will visit each marine fisher household in the identified marine fishing villages under supervision at district, state, regional, and national levels

     

    No. of marine fishing villages, Census 2016

    State

    Fishing
    villages

    West Bengal

    171*

    Odisha

    739

    Andhra Pradesh

    533

    Tamil Nadu

    575

    Puducherry

    39

    Kerala

    220

    Karnataka

    162

    Goa

    41

    Maharashtra

    526

    Gujarat

    280

    Daman & Diu

    12

    Lakshadweep

    10

    Andaman & Nicobar

    169

    Total

    3477

    * Subsequent reference to villages actually means Gram Panchayat in West Bengal

    About Aquaculture Insurance

    The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), a sub-scheme launched under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana offers a comprehensive aquaculture insurance. The aquaculture insurance focuses on mitigating risks and extending financial incentive particularly to small and marginalized farmers. Through the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP), the Sub-scheme offers seamless digital access to insurance, helping safeguard the incomes of fishers and fish farmers against unexpected losses while also promoting better tracking and formalization within the fisheries sector. Eligible beneficiaries include registered aquafarmers, firms, companies, societies, cooperatives, Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs), and other entities involved in the fisheries value chain as identified by the Department of Fisheries. For intensive aquaculture systems such as recirculatory aquaculture systems, the premium is capped at ₹1 lakh per farmer for 1800 m³. Farmers can choose between Basic Insurance, which covers losses from natural calamities and other parametric risks, and the Comprehensive Insurance, which includes Basic Insurance and disease coverage. Additionally, Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and women beneficiaries are eligible for an extra 10% incentive, further promoting inclusivity. The insurance covers one crop cycle only thereby stabilizing income and encouraging investment in aquaculture.

    Notably, the government has introduced Aqua Insurance for the first time, offering dedicated financial protection to aquafarmers. This landmark initiative ensures targeted insurance coverage, digital accessibility, and focused support for marginalized communities in the fisheries sector. The beneficiaries awarded today were Shri D.R.Ravikumar, Tamil Nadu, Shri Mohan Sathiyamoorthy, Tamil Nadu, Shri Sivaramakrishnan, Tamil Nadu, Shri Gandhi Palanivelu, Tamil Nadu, Shri Patnala Subrahmanyam, Andhra Pradesh, Shri Penki Ravi Kumar, Andhra Pradesh, Shri Chiluvuri Ravi Teja, Andhra Pradesh and Shri Korapati Venkata Subba Lakshmi, Andhra Pradesh.

     

    For PMMSY Guidelines on Turtle Excluder Device: Click Here

     

    * * *

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEC Publishes New Market Data, Analysis, and Visualizations

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission’s Division of Economic and Risk Analysis (DERA) has published new data and analysis on the key market areas of public issuers, exempt offerings, Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (CMBS), Asset-Backed Securities (ABS), money market funds, and security-based swap dealers (SBSD) in an effort to increase transparency and understanding of our capital markets amongst the public.

    “These reports reflect important information that is valuable to investors, other market participants, and academics,” said Robert Fisher, Acting Chief Economist and Director of the SEC’s Division of Economic and Risk Analysis. “Understanding these markets is critical because Americans rely on them to fund their retirements, educations, and other priorities.”

    DERA has issued the following reports:

    • Counts of Reporting Issuers Subject to the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Public Firms in 2023 analyzes the number of reporting issuers that in 2023 were either registered under the Exchange Act of 1934 or registered offerings under the Securities Act of 1933 and filed Forms 10-K, 10-KT, 20-F, or 40-F. This study then divides the 8,351 registered issuers into different categories that can be used to determine different counts of public companies based on various definitions and methodologies.  
    • Market Statistics of Exempt Offerings under Regulations A, D, and Crowdfunding provides updated statistics through calendar year 2024 for these regulations, including the number of offerings by type and year and the total amount of capital raised.
    • Issuance and Credit Rating Activity in the CMBS Market provides information on approximately $1.6 trillion of CMBS issuances over a nine-year period, including the number of new CMBS deals and the types of offerings, and considers and analyzes the CMBS rating activity of SEC-registered nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (NRSROs).
    • Asset-Backed Securities Markets: Issuance and Structure examines data on approximately $6 trillion of U.S. ABS issuances between 2014 and 2024, providing information about the size and structure of ABS markets, statistics on new ABS deals, and analysis of the ABS rating activity of NRSROs for the relevant period. 
    • Influences on Money Market Fund Price Variations During the March 2020 Market Dislocation presents an analysis of Form N-MFP submissions between December 2019 and December 2020 for all money market funds, including the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on weekly fluctuations in fund prices, and identifies factors that influenced market prices.
    • Security-Based Swap Dealer Statistics analyzes the population of conditionally registered SBSDs as of December 31, 2024.

    DERA integrates financial economics and rigorous data analytics into the SEC’s core mission. It conducts detailed, high-quality economic and statistical analyses to advise on Commission matters and helps identify and respond to issues, trends, and innovations in the marketplace.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Lightspark: Built for the Next Century of Money

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, April 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Three years ago, Lightspark started with a simple conviction: The way money moves should match the speed, openness, and intelligence of the Internet itself. Since then, the world has responded to a new kind of value — digital, borderless, and instant. But the infrastructure to move that value remains outdated, closed, cumbersome, and expensive.

    Everything Lightspark does aims to change that.

    Today, Lightspark unveils a bold new identity that reflects who they are and where they’re going. It’s a system designed for developers ready to move beyond the constraints of legacy infrastructure and toward faster, more innovative, and more open payments.

    A Brand Built for the Network Lightspark’s Building

    Lightspark’s new identity reflects how money is evolving. Not just a new logo or color palette – it’s a design system built to move as dynamically as the network behind it. Lightspark has rethought everything — from typography to motion — to echo the principles that drive us: open access, instant settlement, global reach. This is the new face of a faster financial future. Powered by Bitcoin and built on the Money Grid.

    Lightspark’s technology is already powering some of the most important financial experiences in the world:

    • Instant Bitcoin payments on Coinbase
    • Seamless payouts via UMA between the US, Mexico, Latin America, Asia and Europe
    • Real-time settlement for exchanges, wallets, and digital banks
    • Stablecoin issuance on Bitcoin via Spark

    The New Mark: Beyond the Bolt

    Lightspark is moving beyond the lightning bolt. The new mark signals the origin point of the Money Grid — inspired by the Cartesian co-ordinate system’s X, Y, and Z axes and the Right-Hand Rule from physics, a principle used in electromagnetism that connects to light waves—a nod to Lightspark’s name and mission. The design symbolizes precision, direction, and interconnected movement, reinforcing the role in powering a more efficient and intelligent global financial network. More than a symbol. It’s a navigation point for the Money Grid.

    Typography: Precision, Clarity, and Scale

    At the foundation of Lightspark’s new identity is Suisse Int’l—a modern interpretation of the classic Swiss Grotesk. Chosen for its clean geometry, timeless clarity, and international versatility, it reflects the qualities Lightspark values in the infrastructure built: strength, reliability, and precision.

    Suisse Int’l brings a functional elegance that allows information, not decoration, to lead. Its wide range of weights, global character support, and structural harmony make it ideal for scaling across surfaces, from product UIs to international campaigns. It’s a typographic system built for clear communication at scale, designed to move as fluidly as the Money Grid Lightspark is powering.

    A Palette Built to Move

    Money doesn’t stop at borders — and neither does Lightspark’s color system. Designed to be bold, expressive, and highly functional, Lightspark’s palette reflects the extensible nature of the Money Grid itself. This is a working color system from high-visibility colors used in interfaces and signals, like Spark, Universal Money Address, and Connect, to a range of neutral tones for structure and contrast. One that scales across products, touchpoints, and cultures. The palette is clean where it needs to be, and loud when necessary. It’s built for scale and flexible enough to adapt to how color is seen, felt, and used across cultures.

    Bringing it all Together

    The future doesn’t need to be imagined; it’s here. With Lightspark’s partners – digital banks, crypto exchanges, non-custodial wallets, developers, marketplaces, and the entrepreneurs shaping the Money Grid – Lightspark is just getting started.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Trump is prompting China to change its relationship with the world

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ming Gao, Research Scholar of East Asia Studies, Lund University

    China has spent much of the past two months shoring up friendships both near and far. Two rounds of ministerial meetings with regional rivals Japan and South Korea took place in Tokyo and Seoul at the end of March.

    And earlier in April the red carpet was rolled out for the Spanish prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, for his second visit to Beijing in less than seven months. This came shortly before the Chinese president, Xi Jinping, embarked on his first overseas trip of 2025 – a charm offensive to Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia.

    Central to these diplomatic moves is Donald Trump, whose return to the White House has clearly unsettled the boundaries between friend and foe.

    China, Japan and South Korea have historically approached one another with caution. This is a legacy of imperial aggression, unresolved territorial disputes and diverging security alignments with the US.

    But the unpredictability of the Trump administration, which has most recently been demonstrated by the imposition of sweeping trade tariffs, seems to be bringing the three countries closer together.

    At the ministerial meeting in Tokyo in March, their respective governments agreed to extend the tenure of the secretary-general and deputy secretaries of the Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat from two years to three. This still relatively unknown international organisation was established in 2011 in an effort to promote cooperation between the three countries.

    The decision, while seemingly a minor administrative adjustment, symbolises a growing mutual trust between these nations. China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi, has explicitly acknowledged that the extension represents a full endorsement of the organisation’s role. And China has now called on Japan for a coordinated response to US tariffs.

    This renewed momentum in regional cooperation set the stage for Xi’s broader diplomatic offensive through south-east Asia, where China sought to reinforce strategic ties and assert its leadership.

    China rolled out an elaborate diplomatic programme for Xi’s stop in Vietnam. It aimed to reaffirm ideological ties of “comrades and brothers” and counter Hanoi’s recent deepening relations with Washington.

    Following talks with Xi, the general secretary of the Communist party of Vietnam, To Lam, said that his country has always regarded developing relations with China as “a strategic choice and top priority”.

    Malaysia, on the other hand, is one of the earliest supporters of Xi’s signature belt and road initiative. It officially joined the Brics group of emerging economies as a “partner country” in 2025 and currently holds the rotating chairmanship of the Asean group of south-east Asian states. This gives Malaysia a central role in coordinating China’s relations with the bloc.

    During Xi’s visit, the Malaysian prime minister, Anwar Ibrahim, made the alignment between the two countries clear. He stated that Malaysia “stands with China” in the face of US threats. Malaysia is one of China’s main trading partners.

    Cambodia is also considered one Beijing’s most loyal partners in south-east Asia. In May 2024, it even named a road in the capital, Phnom Penh, “Xi Jinping Avenue” to thank China for its contribution to Cambodia’s development.

    The authorities pulled out all the stops for Xi’s latest visit. Cambodia’s king, Norodom Sihamoni, personally greeted Xi at the airport in an unprecedented break from protocol. And the two countries elevated their ties to an “all-weather” partnership, a label signalling that their relationship is resilient to external shifts.

    Relations with Europe

    Sánchez’s April visit to Beijing, meanwhile, marked an important point in relations between China and the EU. Following the ramping up of US tariffs, Xi called for the EU and China to “jointly resist unilateral bullying”. This appears to have resonated in Madrid.

    The Spanish delegation carried a message that Washington’s tariff hikes were “neither fair nor just” and had harmed the EU economy. It also said that Europe must “strengthen unity and coordination to safeguard its own interests”.

    This message appears to be filtering through wider European circles, with some leaders signalling their interest in stabilising ties with Beijing. Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, for example, has engaged in “constructive” discussions with Chinese premier Li Qiang to address potential trade disruptions from US tariffs.

    Yet the EU faces an obvious dilemma: whether to engage China as an alternative economic partner or push back against a likely surge in redirected Chinese exports that would threaten European industries and deepen existing political tensions.

    Spain, for its part, has its own strategic calculations. Sánchez’s return to China highlights Madrid’s interest in positioning itself as the European leader in renewable energy, with Chinese investment expected to play a central role in this transition.

    This helps explain why, when asked about the EU’s tariff policy on China during a press briefing in September 2024, Sánchez remarked that “Europe needs to reconsider this decision”. Spain ultimately chose to abstain in the EU’s vote on imposing tariffs on the Chinese EV industry.

    China’s message to the world is clear. It is a stable partner and a defender of free trade. Whether China can persuade the world to trust its leadership amid deepening geopolitical uncertainty remains an open question.

    Ming Gao receives funding from the Swedish Research Council. This research was produced with support from the Swedish Research Council grant “Moved Apart” (nr. 2022-01864). Ming Gao is a member of Lund University Profile Area: Human Rights.

    – ref. How Trump is prompting China to change its relationship with the world – https://theconversation.com/how-trump-is-prompting-china-to-change-its-relationship-with-the-world-253567

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The ‘cortisol belly’ myth: when diet culture is rebranded as ‘wellness’

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nadia Maalin, Lecturer in Psychology, Birmingham City University

    Prostock-studio/Shutterstock

    The latest viral wellness trends – “cortisol belly” and “cortisol face” – promise a calmer, leaner, more radiant you … if you can just lower your stress hormones. With attention-grabbing claims like “You don’t have a belly fat problem. You have a cortisol problem,” creators promote 30-day transformations that supposedly shrink waistlines and slim faces by targeting cortisol.

    These posts often feature hashtags like #cortisolreset, #hormonehealth, and #nervoussystemregulation, along with before-and-after photos claiming reduced bloating, flatter stomachs, and tighter jawlines. The secret? They suggest techniques like cold plunges, cutting caffeine, or taking trendy supplements. However, the truth is that cortisol can’t cause such dramatic physical changes that quickly. The real “secret” is likely a mix of marketing and exaggerated claims.

    Cortisol – often called the “stress hormone” – is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. This can include everything from daily frustrations (like traffic jams or looming deadlines) to major life changes (like illness or divorce), or persistent stressors such as financial strain.

    Cortisol plays a vital role in our fight-or-flight response – an evolutionary function designed to help us respond to threats. It mobilises energy, regulates blood pressure and blood sugar, reduces inflammation and helps control our sleep-wake cycle. Cortisol naturally peaks in the morning to help us wake up, then decreases throughout the day.

    While short bursts of cortisol are helpful, chronic (long-term or frequent recurring) stress can keep levels elevated over time – and that’s when it can start to cause health problems.

    Sustained cortisol elevation can affect appetite, sleep, cravings (especially for high-calorie comfort foods) and how fat is stored in the body. These factors can contribute to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.

    Abdominal fat includes both subcutaneous fat (just beneath the skin) and visceral fat, which surrounds internal organs. While both may increase under chronic stress, visceral fat is more strongly linked to health risks such as cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance.

    Yes, reducing stress is good for your health – both mentally and physically. But framing stress management as a path to visible cosmetic changes – flatter stomachs, sharper cheekbones – reduces a complex health process to an aesthetic issue.

    And that’s exactly what many of these viral trends are doing.

    Old ideas in new packaging

    The appearance-related concerns supposedly “solved” by cortisol regulation – puffiness, belly fat, bloating – closely align with western beauty ideals: thin, toned bodies with flat stomachs and sculpted faces. These ideals are especially gendered, targeting women with the ever elusive hourglass figure: slim waist, fuller breasts and hips.

    Internalising these ideals has been consistently linked to body dissatisfaction, disordered eating and poorer psychological wellbeing.

    Influencers and wellness brands often co-opt the language of health to sell what are essentially beauty ideals – repackaged as “empowerment” and “self-care”. In this way, wellness culture subtly continues the legacy of diet culture, just with a more palatable aesthetic. Today’s message? Don’t count calories – regulate your hormones.

    Many of the quick-fix solutions being promoted – from adaptogenic teas (teas containing herbs, roots and other plant substances believed to help the body adapt to stress and restore balance) and cold plunges to “no-coffee-before-breakfast” rules – are based on limited or inconsistent scientific evidence. While these practices may help reduce stress for some people, their ability to visibly reshape your body in 30 days is unlikely.

    Claims that you can “spot-reduce” fat or lose fat in targeted areas (like the belly or face) are not supported by scientific consensus. That said, there are evidence-based ways to lower cortisol and support mental and physical wellbeing – such as mindfulness and meditation or emotion regulation strategies. These practices activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” state), which slows the heart rate, reduces blood pressure and decreases cortisol. They can also help manage anxiety, sleep and inflammation.

    But again, these are not weight-loss hacks – and definitely not quick fixes for belly fat.



    Read more:
    No, you can’t blame all your health issues on ‘high cortisol’. Here’s how the hormone works

    The idea that stress alone can be responsible for face puffiness or belly fat oversimplifies complex physiological processes. Many factors, not just cortisol, influence how and where we store fat, including sex, genetics, hormones – such as insulin and oestrogen – diet and exercise, age, and individual differences in physiology.

    Managing stress is important. It supports immune function, sleep, mental clarity, and emotional regulation. But when stress regulation is marketed as a tool to transform your appearance, it risks reinforcing the same body ideals that diet culture thrives on – just under a shinier, more “mindful” label.

    Instead of focusing on what cortisol does to your waistline, we should be talking about what chronic stress does to your health, relationships and wellbeing. Instead of striving for a flatter stomach through wellness hacks, we might aim for a healthier, more balanced life – regardless of what we look like.

    Nadia Maalin 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. The ‘cortisol belly’ myth: when diet culture is rebranded as ‘wellness’ – https://theconversation.com/the-cortisol-belly-myth-when-diet-culture-is-rebranded-as-wellness-254362

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: How CBO Supports the Congress in the Reconciliation Process

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The House and Senate recently agreed to a budget resolution that kicks off the reconciliation process, which allows the Congress to expedite consideration of bills that would change laws affecting spending, revenues, or the debt limit. That budget resolution, H. Con. Res. 14, includes reconciliation instructions directing committees to propose legislation aimed at having a specified effect on the federal budget.

    Throughout the reconciliation process, the Congressional Budget Office, in collaboration with the staff of the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), assists the Congress by providing nonpartisan analysis and cost estimates for legislative proposals as they are developed and finalized. As the committees move forward with reconciliation, the information that CBO provides about legislative proposals may be considered in determining whether the bills comply with the rules governing the process. The Congress is responsible for enforcing those rules.

    CBO will update its Reconciliation page as it publishes estimates and other related analyses.

    Cost Estimates During Reconciliation

    CBO will publish cost estimates for bills as they are ordered reported by the relevant Congressional committees. To ensure that its analysis is timely, the agency anticipates that those estimates will be conventional—that is, they will not incorporate any effects that the legislation might have on the size of the economy. As required by law, JCT will provide estimates for legislation that would affect the Internal Revenue Code. After the bills are combined, CBO and JCT will work together to provide an estimate of that broader reconciliation package that accounts for the interactions among the separate bills’ provisions.

    CBO and JCT also expect to work together on dynamic estimates—that is, estimates that reflect the budgetary effects of changes in the size of the economy and in other macroeconomic variables that would stem from enacting the legislation. Such dynamic estimates are required, to the extent practicable, by the House rules for the 119th Congress.

    By law, CBO develops cost estimates that show budgetary effects in relation to its baseline budget projections, which reflect the assumption that current laws governing taxes and spending generally remain unchanged. The Congress chooses which information to use and the baseline against which to enforce points of order during the legislative process.

    Some lawmakers have called for using a baseline that reflects current tax policy—one in which certain provisions of the 2017 tax act (Public Law 115-97) that are set to expire under current law, many at the end of 2025, are extended. If the Chairmen of the Budget Committees specify the details of such a baseline and direct CBO to provide information about the budgetary effects of legislation relative to that baseline, the agency will do so.

    The Roles of CBO and JCT

    CBO and JCT collaborate to support the Congress and will continue to do so throughout the reconciliation process. When it comes to legislation involving changes to the Internal Revenue Code, CBO is required by law to incorporate estimates produced by JCT into its cost estimates. Thus, JCT is responsible for any estimates of the effects of tax provisions included in reconciliation legislation.

    For example, JCT provided estimates of the budgetary effects of the tax provisions of the 2022 reconciliation act (P.L. 117-169), including the cost of energy-related tax credits, which CBO reported in its cost estimates. If this year’s reconciliation legislation makes further changes to those provisions—and thus to the Internal Revenue Code—JCT will once again provide the estimates.

    With each new baseline, CBO includes updated projections of tax revenues to reflect new legislation, newly available data, and updated projections of the economy, including any information that has become available since JCT made its initial estimate for the new legislation.

    The baseline projections that CBO published in February 2024, for example, included substantial upward revisions to the cost of clean vehicle and energy-related tax credits. Those revisions reflected a rule proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency that would change standards for vehicle emissions, guidance from the Treasury about certain provisions of the 2022 reconciliation act, and market developments.

    Compliance With Senate Rules

    The nonpartisan analysis that CBO and JCT provide can inform lawmakers as they look to ensure that reconciliation legislation complies with Senate rules that govern the process. An example of such a rule is the “Byrd rule,” which limits the provisions that can be included in a reconciliation package. CBO does not enforce those rules—that responsibility is left to the Senate.

    Phillip L. Swagel is CBO’s Director.

    MIL OSI USA News –