Category: Economy

MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2023 Article IV Consultation with El Salvador

Source: IMF – News in Russian

March 19, 2025

Washington, DC: On March 20, 2023, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV consultation^{^[1]} with El Salvador.

Despite a series of adverse external shocks, the Salvadoran economy has fared relatively well to date, and is estimated to have grown by 2.8 percent in 2022. Annual inflation jumped to 7¼ percent, mainly due to high global food prices while fuel price inflation was moderated by large subsidies. Vulnerabilities mounted, with international reserves falling below 2 months of imports. In the context of limited financing options, the fiscal deficit narrowed to 2½ percent of GDP, but fiscal policy is expected to turn expansionary in 2023. Under current policies, public debt is on an unsustainable path.

The economy is expected to grow by 2.4 percent in 2023, but the outlook is fragile, given the macroeconomic imbalances and a less favorable international environment. A comprehensive and credible policy package is urgently needed to put public debt on a firmly declining path and strengthen macroeconomic and financial stability.

Over a year after the adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender, its use has been minimal but risks for financial and market integrity, financial stability, and consumer protection remain and need to be addressed.

Executive Board Assessment^[2]

Executive Directors noted the strong post‑pandemic recovery supported by the authorities’ timely responses to shocks and the improved security situation. Pointing to the fragile outlook amid rising risks and vulnerabilities, Directors urged the authorities to adopt a comprehensive plan to address macroeconomic imbalances, including unsustainable public debt and limited reserve coverage, along with structural reforms to support stronger, inclusive growth.

Directors welcomed recent fiscal efforts but underscored the urgent need for an ambitious fiscal consolidation plan, based on greater revenue mobilization and efficiency of spending, including better targeting energy subsidies and social safety nets and rightsizing the wage bill. This is critical to put public debt on a firm downward trajectory and allow a gradual return to international capital markets. Restoring and upgrading the Fiscal Responsibility Law would also improve the transparency and credibility of fiscal policy. Directors stressed the importance of ensuring the sustainability of the pension system to limit contingent liabilities.

Directors noted that the banking system remains healthy but cautioned against rising exposures to the sovereign and the erosion of liquidity buffers. They called for raising banks’ reserve requirements, enacting promptly the Financial Stability Bill, closing regulatory gaps, and continuing to implement the 2020 Safeguards Assessment recommendations.

Directors underscored the importance of narrowing the scope of the Bitcoin law and removing Bitcoin’s legal tender status. They noted that while Bitcoin has had a minimal impact on financial inclusion, high risks to financial integrity and stability, fiscal sustainability, and consumer protection persist. Directors urged that Bitcoin transactions be transparently disclosed, together with the financial statements of public companies operating in the Bitcoin ecosystem. They also called on the authorities to carefully weigh the implications of the new crypto assets legislation and avoid expanding government exposure to Bitcoin.

Directors stressed the importance of structural reforms to strengthen governance, the investment climate and productivity. They called for continued efforts to strengthen fiscal transparency, public procurement, AML/CFT legislation, and the independence of the judicial system. Directors also stressed the importance of enhancing human capital, infrastructure, and climate resilience, as well as continuing to upgrade the statistical framework.

El Salvador: Selected Economic Indicators

I. Social Indicators
Per capita income (U.S. dollars, 2021)	4,408		Population (million, 2021)				6.5
Percent of pop. below poverty line (2021)	24.6		Gini index (2019)				39

II. Economic Indicators (percent of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)

						Proj.
	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024

Income and Prices
Real GDP growth (percent)	2.4	2.4	-8.2	10.3	2.8	2.4	1.9
Consumer price inflation (average, percent)	1.1	0.1	-0.4	3.5	7.2	4.1	2.1
Terms of trade (percent change)	-3.9	1.7	4.8	-7.6	-1.6	5.0	0.7
Sovereign bond spread (basis points)	424	453	760	837	1,485	…	…

Money and Credit
Credit to the private sector	57.3	59.1	66.3	61.8	63.1	61.2	60.0
Broad money	54.8	59.1	70.4	61.5	58.5	58.5	60.5
Interest rate (time deposits, percent)	4.2	4.3	4.1	3.9	…	…	…

External Sector
Current account balance	-3.3	-0.4	0.8	-5.1	-8.3	-5.4	-5.3
Trade balance	-21.7	-21.2	-21.0	-28.6	-31.4	-27.5	-27.4
Transfers (net)	20.6	21.0	24.4	25.9	24.0	22.9	22.4
Foreign direct investment	-3.2	-2.4	-1.1	-1.1	-0.2	-1.6	-2.2
Gross international reserves (mill. of US$)	3,569	4,446	3,083	3,426	2,440	2,798	3,382

Nonfinancial Public Sector
Overall balance	-2.7	-3.1	-8.2	-5.6	-2.5	-3.4	-3.4
Primary balance	0.9	0.6	-3.8	-1.1	2.2	0.3	0.4
Of which: tax revenue	18.0	17.7	18.5	20.1	20.3	19.0	19.0
Public sector debt 1/	70.4	71.3	89.4	82.4	77.2	76.1	78.3

National Savings and Investment
Gross domestic investment	18.4	18.3	18.9	22.2	20.7	19.8	19.4
Private sector 2/	15.7	15.9	16.9	19.6	18.8	17.4	17.1
National savings	15.1	17.9	19.8	17.1	12.4	14.5	14.2
Private sector	14.7	18.0	25.4	19.5	12.8	14.9	14.9

Net Foreign Assets of the Financial System
Millions of U.S. dollars	2,655	3,372	3,618	3,022	1,114	1,227	1,400

Memorandum Items
Nominal GDP (billions of US$)	26.0	26.9	24.6	28.7	31.6	33.7	35.1

Sources: Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador, Ministry of Finance, and IMF staff estimates.
1/ Gross debt of the nonfinancial public sector.
2/ Includes inventories.

[1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

[2] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chairman of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summing up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

PRESS OFFICER: Meera Louis

Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/03/19/pr25069-el-salvador-imf-executive-board-concludes-2023-article-iv-consultation-with-el-salvador

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Russia News –

March 20, 2025

MIL-OSI: Westport to Issue Q4 and Full Year 2024 Financial Results on March 31, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westport Fuel Systems Inc. (TSX: WPRT / Nasdaq: WPRT) (“Westport” or “The Company”) announces that the Company will release 2024 financial results on Monday, March 31, 2025, before market open. A conference call and webcast to discuss the financial results and other corporate developments will be held on the same day: Monday, March 31, 2025.

Time: 1:30 p.m. ET (10:30 a.m. PT)
Call Link: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BId6a8762a91a74ab1b129f33836d3db21
Webcast: https://investors.wfsinc.com

Participants may register up to 60 minutes before the event by clicking on the call link and completing the online registration form. Upon registration, the user will receive dial-in info and a unique PIN, along with an email confirming the details.

The webcast will be archived on Westport’s website and a replay will be available at https://investors.wfsinc.com.

About Westport Fuel Systems
At Westport Fuel Systems, we are driving innovation to power a cleaner tomorrow. We are a leading supplier of advanced fuel delivery components and systems for clean, low-carbon fuels such as natural gas, renewable natural gas, propane, and hydrogen to the global transportation industry. Our technology delivers the performance and fuel efficiency required by transportation applications and the environmental benefits that address climate change and urban air quality challenges. Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with operations in Europe, Asia, North America, and South America, we serve our customers in approximately 70 countries with leading global transportation brands. At Westport Fuel Systems, we think ahead. For more information, visit www.wfsinc.com.

Investor Inquiries:
Investor Relations
T: +1 604-718-2046
E: invest@wfsinc.com

The MIL Network –

March 20, 2025

MIL-OSI: Wearable Devices Announces Full Year 2024 Financial Results and Provides Corporate Update

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

YOKNE’AM ILLIT, Israel, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wearable Devices Ltd. (Nasdaq: WLDS, WLDSW) (“Wearable Devices” or the “Company”), a technology growth company specializing in artificial intelligence (“AI”)-powered touchless sensing wearables, today announced its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024.

Asher Dahan, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Wearable Devices, commented, “2024 was characterized by strategic capital allocation and the execution of our growth strategy as we delivered our Mudra Band for Apple Watch, and entered into several collaborations with companies and contractors at the forefront of their respective industries. With a strong focus on technological breakthroughs and innovation, we introduced the Mudra Link, a universal gesture control wearable wristband in September 2024. This launch marked a significant milestone in our neural interface technology, enabling seamless, touch-free interaction with a wide range of digital devices. The Mudra Link is open for orders, and we have started to ship the Mudra Link to customers in the first quarter of 2025. We invested significant resources in pursuit of these milestones, mainly due to strategic investments primarily in sales and marketing and research and development as we continue to innovate and showcase our technology, as well as an enhanced focus on business development on the business-to-business (“B2B”) side of our business.”

“Collaborations represent a key part of our business, and we expect our B2B offerings to be a significant driver of revenue for us as we grow. At the beginning of 2024, we launched the B2B Mudra Developer Kit (“MDK”), providing our B2B customers with enhanced capabilities and additional features that improve our B2B offering. The MDK allows original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”) to design new, customized gestures to create a user interface specifically tailored to their needs. At the beginning of 2024, we announced a collaboration agreement with Qualcomm Incorporated (“Qualcomm”), for the development of products using the Qualcomm Snapdragon Spaces XR Developer Platform. In October 2024, we announced an innovative collaboration with TCL-RayNeo™ (“RayNeo”), a leader in augmented reality (“AR”) technology, aiming at bringing mass-market neural interface wristband for AR glasses to life. We anticipate interest in our B2B product to grow as the market for wearable devices and AI-based technology expands, with more and more customers recognizing the value that our products can add to their operations.

“Our business-to-customer (“B2C”) product, the Mudra Band, is an award-winning aftermarket band for the Apple Watch that enables touchless control of multiple Apple devices. In addition, we’re seeing considerable interest in the Mudra Link, and during the first quarter of 2025 we commenced shipment of our first manufacturing batch to Mudra Link customers. 2024 was characterized by strategic capital allocation and the execution of our growth strategy, with a focus on three key areas: technological breakthroughs and innovation, adoption trends and market outlook, and strategic positioning for future growth.

First, we continued to lead in innovation with groundbreaking technologies that enable natural, touch-free interaction. Second, we are witnessing an increasing adoption trend in neural interface solutions, with growing interest from both consumers and business partners. Finally, we are well-positioned for future growth, supported by our marketing efforts, strong presence at leading trade shows such as CES and MWC, and the growing recognition of Mudra Link as a market-defining product. We continue to receive orders for the product and see significant growth potential as our technology and capabilities evolve.”

Mr. Dahan concluded, “We have a comprehensive strategy with innovative B2B and B2C offerings to maximize our presence in what we believe to be a market that is poised for tremendous growth. We are very encouraged by the progress that we made in 2024 and believe that Wearable Devices is positioned for transformation in coming years, as we continue to invest in our operations, bring innovative products to market, and showcase the breadth and depth of our technology.”

2024 and Recent Business Highlights:

Strategic Collaborations & Expansion

Signed a collaboration agreement with Qualcomm to elevate extended reality (“XR”) experiences using Mudra neural technology.
Collaborated with RayNeo to lead the neural control revolution for AR glasses, positioning Mudra ahead of competitors like Meta.
Signed a reseller agreement to scale licensing efforts in South Korea and China.

Product & Technology Innovations

Launched Mudra Link, the first AI Neural Interface Wristband for Android and beyond, expanding accessibility of neural gesture control.
Released the Mudra Developer Kit (MDK) for B2B customers, enabling OEMs to create tailored user interfaces.
Unveiled AI-powered Large MUAP Models to revolutionize gesture control with personalized neural interactions.
Showcased future AI-powered gesture personalization technology, advancing next-gen human-computer interaction.

Market Recognition & Sales Expansion

Awarded the CES 2025 Innovation Award in XR Technologies and Accessories for Mudra Link.
Chosen as Best Wearable of CES 2024 by SlashGear.com.
Featured in Mashable, VentureBeat, and leading tech magazines.

Strategic Deployments

Successfully completed the first-stage deployment testing for a leading XR glasses OEM, meeting key evaluation criteria.
Demonstrated Mudra technology integration with Qualcomm Snapdragon Spaces at CES 2025 and AWE 2024.
Showed positive results on Lenovo’s XR headset, validating Mudra’s neural technology for next-gen spatial computing.

Intellectual Property & Regulatory Progress

Filed a patent application for touchless pinch-to-zoom technology for AR/VR (virtual reality) applications.
Secured a Chinese patent for its AI Gesture-Controlled Interface.
Expanded international IP portfolio with a neural wrist technology patent filing in South Korea.

Full Year 2024 Financial Highlights:

Revenues: Revenues increased from $82 thousand in 2023 to $522 thousand in 2024, marking a significant step forward in the Company’s transition toward a commercially driven business. This growth was primarily driven by increased sales of the Mudra Band, demonstrating early market adoption and growing demand for neural interface technology. While revenues are still at an early stage, the upward trend reflects positive momentum and a foundation for future expansion.
Research and Development Expenses: Research and development expenses decreased by 11% to $3.0 million in the full year of 2024 compared to $3.3 million in the full year of 2023, reflecting the successful completion of key development phases, particularly Mudra Link, and a transition toward production and sales. The Company continued to focus on creating disruptive, industry leading technology that leverages AI and proprietary algorithms, software and hardware.
Sales and Marketing Expenses: Sales and marketing expenses increased by 4% to $2.1 million in the full year of 2024 compared to $2.0 million in the full year of 2023, related to the Company driving awareness of its technology and products across various channels including participation at multiple leading industry conferences.
General and administrative expenses: General and administrative expenses decreased by 1.3% to $2.8 million in the full year of 2024 compared to $2.9 million in the full year of 2023.
Net Loss: Net loss increased to $(7.9 million), or $(24.2) per diluted share, for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to a net loss of $(7.8 million), or $(38.4) per diluted share, for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The per share information reflects the Company’s 1-for-20 reverse share split, which became effective on October 10, 2024, and an additional 1-for-4 reverse share split, which became effective on March 17, 2025.

Cash Position: Cash and deposits as of December 31, 2024 were $4.0 million.
Inventory: Inventory increased to $1.2 million at the end of 2024, as part of the completion of the transition phase from research and development to production and to serve our planned B2C and B2B initiatives in 2025.

About Wearable Devices Ltd.

Wearable Devices Ltd. is a growth company developing AI-based neural input interface technology for the B2C and B2B markets. The Company’s flagship product, the Mudra Band for Apple Watch, integrates innovative AI-based technology and algorithms into a functional, stylish wristband that utilizes proprietary sensors to identify subtle finger and wrist movements allowing the user to “touchlessly” interact with connected devices. The Company also markets a B2B product, which utilizes the same technology and functions as the Mudra Band and is available to businesses on a licensing basis. Wearable Devices Is committed to creating disruptive, industry leading technology that leverages AI and proprietary algorithms, software, and hardware to set the input standard for the Extended Reality, one of the most rapidly expanding landscapes in the tech industry. The Company’s ordinary shares and warrants trade on the Nasdaq market under the symbol “WLDS” and “WLDSW,” respectively.

Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. For example, we are using forward-looking statements when we discuss the benefits, capabilities, advantages and expected demand, an increasing adoption trend in neural interface solutions, with growing interest from both consumers and business partners, momentum and growth of our products and technology, our expectation for the growth of the B2B market and that our B2B offerings will be a significant driver of revenue for us as we grow, our anticipation that interest in our B2B product will grow as the market for wearable devices and AI-based technology expands and our belief that Wearable Devices is positioned for transformation in coming years. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding our strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: our use of proceeds from the offering; the trading of our ordinary shares or warrants and the development of a liquid trading market; our ability to successfully market our products and services; the acceptance of our products and services by customers; our continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for our products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; our ability to successfully develop new products and services; our success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; our ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed on March 15, 2024 and our other filings with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

Investor Contact:

Michal Efraty
IR@wearabledevices.co.il

WEARABLE DEVICES LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

	December 31
	2024			2023
	U.S. dollars in thousands
Assets
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents		3,089			810
Short-term bank deposits		862			4,045
Governmental grant receivable		17			108
Other receivables and prepaid expenses		322			757
Inventories		1,226			1,032
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS		5,516			6,752

NON-CURRENT ASSETS:
Long-term bank deposits		–			54
Right-of-use assets		330			592
Property and equipment, net		130			194
TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS		460			840
TOTAL ASSETS		5,976			7,592

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable		157			410
Advance payments		83			312
Convertible promissory note		770			–
Accrued payroll and other employment related accruals		402			579
Accrued expenses		392			190
Lease liabilities		291			297
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES		2,095			1,788
Lease liabilities		21			278
TOTAL LIABILITIES		2,116			2,066

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Ordinary shares no par value : Authorized 50,000,000 as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023; Issued and outstanding 707,463 shares as of December 31, 2024 and 254,843 shares as of December 31, 2023.		67			57
Additional paid-in capital		32,895			26,692
Accumulated losses		(29,102	)		(21,223)
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY		3,860			5,526
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY		5,976			7,592

WEARABLE DEVICES LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

	Year ended December 31
	2024			2023			2022
	U.S. dollars in thousands (except per share amounts)

Revenues		522			82			45
Cost of revenues		437			(62	)		(10	)
GROSS PROFIT		85			20			35
Research and development, net		(2,964	)		(3,316	)		(2,271	)
Sales and marketing expenses, net		(2,096	)		(2,008	)		(1,370	)
General and administrative expenses		(2,845	)		(2,882	)		(1,948	)
Initial public offering expenses		–			–			(904	)
OPERATING LOSS		(7,820	)		(8,186	)		(6,458	)
Financing income (expenses), net		(52	)		372			(38	)
LOSS BEFORE TAX EXPENSES		(7,872	)		(7,814	)		(6,496	)
Tax expenses		(7	)		–			–
NET LOSS AND TOTAL
COMPREHENSIVE LOSS		(7,879	)		(7,814	)		(6,496	)

Net loss per ordinary shares,
basic and diluted *		(24.2	)		(38.4	)		(42.4	)
Weighted average number of
ordinary shares and pre- funded warrants outstanding basic and diluted *		325,690			202,515			153,465

* The share and per share information in these financial statements reflects the 1-for-20 reverse share split became effective on October 10, 2024 and an additional 1-for-4 reverse share split of our issued and outstanding Ordinary Shares became effective on March 17, 2025.

WEARABLE DEVICES LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

	Year ended December 31
	2024			2023		2022
	U.S. dollars in thousands
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net loss		(7,879	)		(7,814)		(6,496)
Adjustments required to reconcile net loss to net cash used in
operating activities
Depreciation		107			68		23
Interest expenses on convertible promissory note		4			–		–
Accrued interest on deposits		(3	)		(45)		–
Share based compensation expenses		182			241		790
Unrealized gain from foreign currency derivative activities		68			(68)		–
Marketing expenses paid in ordinary shares		100			–		–
Provision for inventory write-off		75			–		–

Changes in operating assets and liabilities items:
Decrease in accounts receivable		–			–		8
Decrease (increase) in inventories		(269	)		(1,026)		5
Decrease (increase) in governmental grants receivables		91			(54)		8
Decrease (Increase) in other receivables and prepaid expenses		357			(136)		(496)
Increase (decrease) in advance payments		(228	)		(41)		79
Increase (decrease) in deferred revenues		–			(12)		(12)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable		(253	)		254		84
Increase (decrease) in accrued payroll and other employment related accruals		(177	)		163		194
Increase in accrued expenses		212			36		99
Net cash used in operating activities		(7,613	)		(8,434)		(5,714)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of property and equipment		(43	)		(194)		(48)
Decrease (Increase) in deposits, net		3,240			(4,054)		–
Prepayments of leasing		–			–		(18)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		3,197			(4,248)		(66)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from issuance of shares issued in the public offering, net of issuance cost		1,578			1,670		–
Proceeds from issuance of units of ordinary shares and warrants in connection with the initial public offering, net of issuance expenses					–		14,319
Proceeds from issuance of SAFEs		–			–		500
Refund to SAFE investors		–			–		(100)
Proceeds from credit line		–			–		800
Repayment of credit line		–			–		(800)
Proceeds from issuance of ordinary shares as a result of exercise of warrants		–			1,449		160
Proceeds from issuance of ordinary shares associated with the SEPA		4,353			–		–
Proceeds from issuance of convertible promissory note		1,920			–		–
Repayment of convertible promissory note		(1,156	)
Net cash provided by financing activities		6,695			3,119		14,879

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		2,279			(9,563)		9,099
Cash and Cash Equivalents at the beginning of year		810			10,373		1,274
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year		3,089			810		10,373
Supplemental Disclosure:
Interest paid		49			–		40
Interest received		(144	)		(305)		–
Conversion of SAFEs to equity		–			–		400
Right-of-use asset recognized against lease liability		–			644		229

The MIL Network –

March 20, 2025

MIL-OSI: Beyond Trust Launches ‘Beyond Card’ to Enhance Security and Accessibility for High-Net-Worth Clients

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Beyond Trust Company Limited launched the Beyond Card, providing high-net-worth clients secure access to liquid assets within trust structures. Equipped with advanced security features, the card enables controlled transactions while maintaining legal protections. This innovation combines financial technology with traditional wealth preservation methods.

HONG KONG, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beyond Trust Company Limited has introduced the Beyond Card, a new financial solution designed to improve asset security and accessibility for high-net-worth clients. The launch of the Beyond Card reflects its ongoing efforts to provide advanced financial solutions that align with global best practices. The card provides controlled access to liquid assets within trust structures while incorporating advanced security features to prevent unauthorized transactions.

As wealth management becomes more complex, high-net-worth individuals require secure and flexible financial tools. The Beyond Card allows clients to access their funds efficiently while maintaining strong legal protections under trust structures. This development aligns with Beyond Trust’s commitment to integrating financial technology with traditional wealth preservation methods.

Beyond Trust recently received a 2025 Global Recognition Award for leadership and innovation in trust services. The award highlights the company’s role in modernizing wealth management through financial technology and structured asset protection. “The Beyond Card gives clients both flexibility and protection. It allows them to manage their assets securely while ensuring that their financial legacy remains intact,” said Stanley Hui, CEO of Beyond Trust.

High-net-worth individuals often face security risks, including fraud and cyber threats. To fight this, the Beyond Card is equipped with multi-layer authentication features, transaction monitoring and strict access controls. These security measures help prevent financial mismanagement and unauthorized account access.

“Our clients need financial security without compromising convenience,” Hui added. “With the Beyond Card, we provide a structured solution that safeguards assets while allowing controlled access when needed.”

The Beyond Card is integrated into Beyond Trust’s wealth management services, offering clients a way to access designated funds while ensuring that trust guidelines are followed. The system prevents unauthorized withdrawals and ensures that all transactions align with the terms of the trust. Its structures are designed to protect wealth across generations. The Beyond Card complements these services by giving trustees and beneficiaries the ability to manage financial transactions without disrupting the long-term financial plan. The card’s system ensures that funds are distributed according to the legal trust framework, reducing risks related to overspending, unauthorized access or disputes over asset control.

By combining financial technology with trust management, Beyond Trust aims to offer a practical tool for wealth preservation.

About Beyond Trust Company Limited

Beyond Trust Company Limited is a licensed trust services provider based in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong. The company specializes in wealth management, inheritance planning, and financial security solutions for high-net-worth individuals and families. Beyond Trust helps clients preserve and manage assets across generations by integrating advanced financial technology with legal trust structures. The firm operates under Hong Kong’s common law framework, providing strong legal protections and strategic advantages for trust services.

Contact Information:

Name: Stanley HUI
Company: Beyond Trust Company Limited
Website: www.beyondtrust.com.hk
Email: stanley.hui@beyondtrust.com.hk

The MIL Network –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI: ArrowMark Financial Corp. Releases Month End Estimated Net Asset Value as of February 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

DENVER, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ArrowMark Financial Corp., (NASDAQ: BANX) (“ArrowMark Financial”), today announced that BANX’s estimated and unaudited Net Asset Value (“NAV”) as of February 28, 2025, was $22.04.

This estimated NAV is not a comprehensive statement of our financial condition or results for the month February 28, 2025.

About ArrowMark Financial Corp.
ArrowMark Financial Corp. is an SEC registered non-diversified, closed-end fund listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “BANX.” Its investment objective is to provide shareholders with current income. BANX pursues its objective by investing primarily in regulatory capital securities of financial institutions. BANX is managed by ArrowMark Asset Management, LLC. To learn more, visit ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com, or contact Destra at 877.855.3434 or by email at BANX@destracapital.com.

Disclaimer and Risk Factors:
There is no assurance that ArrowMark Financial will achieve its investment objective. ArrowMark Financial is subject to numerous risks, including investment and market risks, management risk, income and interest rate risks, banking industry risks, preferred stock risk, convertible securities risk, debt securities risk, liquidity risk, valuation risk, leverage risk, non-diversification risk, credit and counterparty risks, market at a discount from net asset value risk and market disruption risk. Shares of closed-end investment companies may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) their net asset value. Shares of ArrowMark Financial may not be appropriate for all investors. Investors should review and consider carefully ArrowMark Financial’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

The Annual Report, Semi-Annual Report and other regulatory filings of the Company with the SEC are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and on the BANX’s website at ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com.

Contact:
BANX@destracapital.com

The MIL Network –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: High-Ranking MS-13 Leader Arraigned in Long Island Federal Court on Terrorism and Racketeering Charges After His Arrest in Mexico

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Defendant, Who Was Added to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List in February, Was a Founding Member of the Transnational Criminal Organization’s Ranfla en las Calles Leadership Structure

CENTRAL ISLIP, NY – Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Francisco Javier Roman-Bardales, also known as “Veterano de Tribus,” a high-ranking leader of La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as “MS-13,” was arraigned on a four-count indictment charging him, along with a dozen other high-ranking MS-13 leaders, with directing the transnational criminal organization’s unlawful activities in the United States, El Salvador, Mexico, and elsewhere over the past two decades. Roman-Bardales, who had been a fugitive for nearly three years and was added to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List last month, was arrested by the FBI on March 18, 2025 at the San Ysidro Port of Entry in San Diego, California. Roman-Bardales had been located and arrested by Mexican authorities in Veracruz on March 17, 2025, and after it was determined that he was an El Salvadoran citizen with no valid status in Mexico, he was expelled from Mexico. Roman-Bardales is charged with racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to provide and conceal material support and resources to terrorists, narco-terrorism conspiracy, and alien smuggling conspiracy. Today’s proceeding was held before United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack. Roman-Bardales was ordered detained pending trial in the Eastern District of New York.

Pamela Bondi, United States Attorney General, John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Leslie Backschies, Acting Assistant Director in Charge, FBI, New York Field Office, announced the arraignment.

“MS-13 is a terrorist organization and this case reflects the Department of Justice’s ironclad commitment to putting terrorists behind bars,” stated Attorney General Bondi. “Members of MS-13 and similar groups should live in fear knowing that we will hunt them down, prosecute them, and deliver swift American justice for their heinous crimes.”

“The prosecution in the Eastern District of New York of this international fugitive, who is one of the most senior leaders of the MS-13 in the world, is another momentous step in the dismantling of this evil criminal enterprise, whose bloodshed and reign of terror traverses all boundaries,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “Thanks to the relentless and brave work of United States law enforcement, he will soon face reckoning in a courtroom on Long Island where his transnational criminal organization has impacted so many communities.”

Mr. Durham expressed his appreciation to the Suffolk County Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, San Diego (HSI), the FBI’s San Diego Field Office and the Government of Mexico for their assistance.

“FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitive Roman-Bardales has been extradited to the United States to be held accountable for the extreme and depraved violence and terror his leadership of MS-13 allegedly brought to the streets of the United States and across North America,” stated FBI Acting Assistant Director in Charge Backschies. “The FBI, along with our law enforcement partners are committed to eradicating MS-13 and all violent transnational criminal organizations wherever they operate as we protect our nation.”

As set forth in court filings, Roman-Bardales and his co-defendants are part of MS-13’s command and control structure, consisting of the Ranfla Nacional, Ranfla en Las Calles, and Ranfla en Los Penales. They exercise significant leadership roles in the organization’s operations in El Salvador, Mexico, the United States, and throughout the world. Roman-Bardales was himself a founding member of the Ranfla en las Calles and oversaw the “Western Zone” of MS-13 in El Salvador. In the related case of United States v. Henriquez, et al., a grand jury in the Eastern District of New York previously indicted 14 members of the Ranfla Nacional, who functioned as MS-13’s “Board of Directors.” Formal extradition requests have been submitted by the United States and remain pending for 11 of those defendants who either are or were in custody in El Salvador.

As further alleged, the defendants have engaged in a litany of violent terrorist activities aimed at influencing the policies of the government of El Salvador (GOES) and at obtaining benefits and concessions from GOES; targeting GOES law enforcement and military officials; employing terrorist tactics such as the use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and grenades; operating military-style training camps for firearms and explosives; using public displays of violence to intimidate civilian populations; using violence to obtain and control territory; and manipulating the electoral process in El Salvador.

Further, these defendants authorized and directed violence in the United States, Mexico, and elsewhere as part of a concerted effort to expand MS-13’s influence and territorial control. As the leaders of the MS-13 transnational criminal organization, these defendants were an integral part of the leadership chain responsible for supervising MS-13 cliques in the United States that engaged in extreme violence, including countless murders, attempted murders, assaults, and related offenses. For example, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York has prosecuted hundreds of MS-13 leaders, members, and associates for carrying out more than 80 murders in the Eastern District of New York between 2009 and the present.

Several of these defendants, including Roman-Bardales, coordinated MS-13’s expansion into Mexico (the Mexico Program), at the direction of the Ranfla Nacional, which was a coordinated effort to maintain MS-13’s continuity of operations in response to law enforcement pressure previously exerted by the United States and GOES. Additionally, Roman-Bardales and the Mexico Program forged alliances with Mexican cartels, and engaged in narcotics trafficking, immigrant smuggling, extortion, kidnappings, and weapons trafficking. As alleged in the indictment, the MS-13’s Mexico Program murdered some migrants bound for the United States, including suspected members of the rival 18^th Street gang and MS-13 members attempting to flee MS-13 in El Salvador without permission. Drug trafficking was an important part of MS-13’s moneymaking operation, especially in Mexico, and the defendants used MS-13’s large membership in the United States to generate financial support for MS-13’s terrorist activities in El Salvador.

This case was brought by Joint Task Force Vulcan (JTFV), which was created to combat MS-13 and comprised of U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country, including the Eastern District of New York; the Eastern District of Texas; the Southern District of New York; the District of Massachusetts; the District of New Jersey; the Northern District of Ohio; the District of Utah; the Southern District of Florida; the Eastern District of Virginia; the Southern District of California; the District of Nevada; the District of Alaska; and the District of Columbia, as well as the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Criminal Division. Additionally, the FBI; HSI; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the United States Marshals Service; the U.S. Bureau of Prisons; and the United States Agency for International Development, Office of Inspector General have been essential law enforcement partners and spearheaded JTFV’s investigations.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America and an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted of the charges, Roman-Bardales faces up to life in prison or the possibility of the death penalty.

The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division and as part of the work of the Office’s Transnational Criminal Organizations Strike Force. Assistant United States Attorneys Justina L. Geraci, Paul G. Scotti, and Megan E. Farrell are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Kerryanne Ucci and Automated Litigation Specialist Michael Compitello.

The Defendant:

FRANCISCO JAVIER ROMAN-BARDALES (also known as “Veterano de Tribus”)
Age: 47
Ahuachapán, El Salvador and Veracruz, Mexico

E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 22-CR-429 (JMA)

MIL Security OSI –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Women Champion Environmental Justice, Biodiversity, Commission Hears

Source: United Nations 4

In an interactive dialogue on environmental conservation, protection and rehabilitation, the Commission on the Status of Women today heard from speakers who called on Governments to bridge the gap between policy and practice and empower Indigenous women and other marginalized groups in a world where progress is “being slashed by anti-rights actors that are in the league with fossil-fuel industries and tech billionaires”.

The Commission’s two-week annual session has centered on accelerating the implementation of the Platform for Action adopted at the 1995 World Conference on Women in Beijing, where world leaders pledged to achieve gender equality and uphold women’s rights. Today’s panel discussion centred on cultivating a coordinated response to the triple planetary crisis — climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution — while emphasizing the need to reinvigorate efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Another dialogue was held on peaceful and inclusive societies.

Lorena Aguilar, Executive Director at Kaschak Institute for Social Justice for Women and Girls at Binghamton University in New York, said that the discussion will centre on the key barriers Indigenous women face in securing land and resource rights, exploring how Governments and non-State actors, including academia, civil society and international organizations, can more effectively support Indigenous communities in overcoming these challenges. Speakers will also examine the disconnect between policy and practice, particularly the obstacles preventing young women from pursuing education and careers in fields that foster their meaningful participation in the green and blue economies. Looking ahead to 2030, she said, the dialogue will showcase best practices and scalable strategies that align the Beijing Platform for Action with the SDGs, advancing gender-responsive climate and environmental action.

Exclusion of Women from Green, Blue Economies

Manasiti Omar, Founder and Executive Director of Spring of the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, said that, as a young Indigenous woman who has personally encountered the barriers hindering young women’s participation in the green and blue economies, she knows that the promise of a just transition will remain unfulfilled if powerful obstacles persist. Too often, young women especially those from Indigenous, rural and marginalized communities struggle to access education, employment and leadership opportunities in climate and environmental action. “The reality is a system designed to exclude young women,” she said. On paper, many Governments have policies promoting environmental education, technical training and gender inclusion, yet these commitments rarely translate into real, tangible opportunities. Structural inequalities, financial constraints, cultural biases and a lack of mentorship or institutional support create layers of exclusion that prevent young women from fully engaging in the green and blue economies. It is important to dismantle these barriers, bridge the gap between policy and practice, and create pathways that empower young women to lead in climate and environmental action. “I have seen first hand that, when young women are given the right opportunities, we don’t just participate, we transform entire communities, but we cannot do it alone,” she said.

Need to Address Structural Inequalities

Astrid Puentes Riaño, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, said that she is the first woman to serve as a UN Rapporteur and the first person from the Global South in this role, covering not only the environment, but also climate, toxins and water. “This is the kind of changes, of course, that we need,” she added. However, true progress isn’t about checking boxes; it requires a systematic and sustained approach to breaking barriers that have historically excluded women, particularly those from marginalized and Indigenous communities. Looking ahead to 2030 and beyond, she said it is essential to ensure that policies promoting gender inclusion in environmental governance translate into real opportunities. This means addressing structural inequalities, ensuring access to education and leadership roles, and creating pathways for women to actively participate in shaping climate and environmental action. The need for expertise-driven, inclusive leadership is more critical than ever, and only by dismantling these barriers can truly create a just and sustainable future. “Women and girls in marginalized situations are not only victims; we are also key actors for change,” she stressed.

Hopes Slashed by Anti-Rights Actors

“I am angry at what is happening in the world today,” said Sascha Gabizon, Executive Director of Women Engage for a Common Future and Co-Facilitator of the Women’s Major Group on SDGs. She recalled working in Beijing at the fourth World Conference on Women 30 years ago. “We had so much hope that we could make this world a better place,” she added, emphasizing: “But, unfortunately, our work is being slashed by anti-rights actors that are in the league with fossil-fuel industries and tech billionaires that are clearly only interested in their own profit.” Authoritarian regimes are trying to silence and criminalize climate activists and women environmental rights defenders. In the Caucasus, where she works, the Government has rolled back gender equality laws and institutions and silenced feminist and civil society organizations through what they call foreign agent laws, a tactic which is spreading also now in other countries. Half of the CO₂ emissions come from only 36 fossil-fuel corporations annually, she noted. Each year, $700 billion go into subsidies for fossil fuels. “That is where we should be cutting,” she said, adding that “billionaires produce more carbon in 90 minutes than each of you in your entire life”. She urged the need to continue to mobilize and collectively organize, to engage in policy processes, “to claim our seats, to go on strikes, to go onto the streets and to implement gender just solutions on the ground”.

Solar Farming

Valbona Mazreku, Founder and Director of Milieukontakt Albania, said that integrating gender-responsive policies into climate adaptation is crucial. Over 50 per cent of rural women in Albania are engaged in agriculture, yet they have limited access to resources and technology, and “only 8 per cent of agricultural land is owned by women”, restricting their ability to make sustainable land-use decisions. Highlighting the high cost of water, she said her organization worked with a group of farmers from a small village in south-east Albania to develop Piskova Solar Farming, a renewable energy cooperative. It also created a curriculum on renewable energy aimed at young people “to influence women’s career aspirations in the energy sector”, she said. Noting that the organization’s trainers and experts are women, she said: “We not only break down gender stereotypes, but also prepare the next generation for participation in the green economy.” Women should not just be seen as victims of climate change, but as key agents of change, she said, calling on UN-Women to partner with local organizations.

Fisherwomen ‘Guardians of Local Biodiversity’

Yuli Velásquez, Director of the Federation of Artisanal, Environmental and Tourist Fishermen of Santander, Colombia, speaking via video, said that, while her fishing community is male dominated, it is the fisherwomen of the Federation who serve as guardians of local biodiversity. They are on the front lines of fighting for environmental justice, she said, highlighting several examples, including their work gathering evidence about water pollution in the Magdalene River. Highlighting the crucial role of “community water monitoring”, she said: “We are now learning how to do so with technical tools and instruments,” to facilitate this data-collection. Women in her community who spoke out against corruption have received threats. “We have spoken out robustly,” she said, but due to prevailing impunity, the cases are often closed. This demonstrates the need for stronger State institutions to ensure investigation and prosecution of crimes against social and environmental activists.

__________

* The 16^th meeting was not covered.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: 2025-26 Budget: Delivering For You
Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on March 19, 2025

Saskatchewan’s 2025-26 Provincial Budget is delivering for the people of Saskatchewan.

Deputy Premier and Finance Minister Jim Reiter tabled a budget today that delivers on the priorities of Saskatchewan people – affordability, health care, education, safer communities and responsible financial management – while addressing the challenges of a growing province.

“We understand this budget is being delivered at a very volatile time, due to the constantly changing tariff threats from the United States,” Reiter said. “Right now, we do not know what tariffs the U.S. may impose or how long they may last. As a result, it was not possible to build the exact impact of tariffs into the budget.

“However, we are not letting the tariff threat prevent us from following through on our commitments to the people of Saskatchewan. Our strong financial position means we are well-positioned to weather the impact of any tariffs that may be imposed on Canada and Saskatchewan.”

As a signal of strong financial management, the Government of Saskatchewan is delivering a balanced budget in 2025-26, with a surplus of $12 million.

Affordability

In the 2025-26 Budget, the Government of Saskatchewan continues to take action to ensure the province remains the most affordable place in Canada to live, work, raise a family and start a business.

The budget reduces income taxes for every resident, family and small business in the province. It also helps make life more affordable for seniors, families with children, persons with disabilities, caregivers, new graduates, first-time homebuyers and people renovating their homes.

The taxation changes introduced in the 2025-26 Budget, including the initiatives in The Saskatchewan Affordability Act, provide over $250 million in tax savings this year. This is in addition to the more than $2 billion in affordability measures in each and every budget.

The affordability measures in the 2025-26 Budget include those that help make life more affordable and those that support our growing province. Among the measures are:
- Raising the basic personal exemption, spousal and equivalent-to-spousal exemption, dependent child exemption and the seniors supplement by $500 a year, for the next four years – over and above the impact of indexation – for the largest personal income tax reduction in the province since 2008;
- Increasing monthly income assistance benefits by two per cent for Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) and Saskatchewan Assured income for Disability (SAID) clients;
- Increasing the Disability Tax Credit and Caregiver Tax Credit by 25 per cent;
- Doubling the Active Families Benefit refundable tax credit from $150 to $300 per child and doubling the income threshold to qualify to $120,000 to make children’s sports, arts, cultural and recreational activities more affordable for more Saskatchewan families;
- Reinstating the Home Renovation Tax Credit, which will allow homeowners to save up to $420 annually in home renovation expenses, while seniors undertaking home renovations can save up to $525;
- Increasing the Graduate Retention Program benefit by 20 per cent to a maximum of $24,000; and
- Permanently maintaining the small business tax rate at one per cent, benefiting more than 35,000 small businesses in Saskatchewan and saving them over $50 million in corporate income taxes annually.
Property owners will also receive relief in this year’s budget. All education property tax mill rates will be reduced to absorb the increase in property assessment values and ensure this assessment year is revenue neutral for the province in each property class. This change will save property owners in the province more than $100 million annually.

This is in addition to the Government of Saskatchewan extending the carbon tax exemption on home heating, which is expected to save the average Saskatchewan family approximately $480 in 2025.

Health Care

The 2025-26 Budget delivers better patient access and safer, more responsive care for Saskatchewan residents.

Over the last two years, the Government of Saskatchewan has invested $15.7 billion in health care in the province. In the 2025-26 Budget:
- The Ministry of Health receives a record $8.1 billion, an increase of $485 million, or 6.4 per cent;
- The Saskatchewan Health Authority receives an increase of $261 million, or 5.6 per cent, for a record $4.9 billion budget; and
- The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency receives $279 million, an increase of $30 million, or 12.2 per cent.
This funding will provide better access to acute care programs and services to improve patient outcomes, such as:
- Reducing surgical wait times as part of an ambitious plan to perform 450,000 procedures over four years; and
- Realigning services at Saskatoon City Hospital to address inpatient capacity pressures by opening more than 100 beds.
Mental health and addictions programs and services receive $624 million – 7.7 per cent of the overall Health budget – to deliver critical support and investments in Saskatchewan, including an increase of $20 million for targeted initiatives. This includes continued progress on the multi-year Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan, and expanded access to mental health and addictions services and care by delivering on the commitment to add 500 addictions treatment spaces across the province, doubling the public health system’s capacity.

To ensure the professionals are in place to provide health care services, this year’s budget accelerates the hiring of health care professionals through the Health Human Resources Action Plan.

The 25-26 Budget also invests in steady and significant progress on multiple infrastructure projects.

Due to the positive response to the Regina Urgent Care Centre, planning is underway for additional urgent care centres in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert and North Battleford, as well as second urgent care centres in Regina and Saskatoon.

The budget also provides new capital funding for the expansion of Complex Needs Emergency Shelters in new communities, building on the pilot projects in Regina and Saskatoon.

Overall, health capital funding will increase by $140 million, for a total of $657 million – the highest ever capital budget to deliver major health infrastructure projects.

Education

Kindergarten to Grade 12

The 2025-26 Budget delivers increased opportunities and supports for kindergarten to Grade 12 students, parents and teachers across Saskatchewan.

Over the last two years, more than $5 billion has been invested in kindergarten to Grade 12 education. In this year’s budget, the Ministry of Education receives $3.5 billion, an increase of $184 million, or 5.5 per cent, over the previous year. That includes an increase of $186 million, or 8.4 per cent, in school operating funding for a total of $2.4 billion.

The 2025-26 Budget also includes an increase of $130 million to fund the new teacher collective agreement and address growing student enrollment and the challenges facing today’s classrooms.

Building on the success of last year’s pilot project in eight Saskatchewan schools, the budget provides funding for 50 additional specialized support classrooms throughout the province. The specialized classrooms help reduce interruptions by providing additional supports to students who need them.

Student literacy is another area of emphasis in the 2025-26 Budget. Learning to read is one of the most valuable skills developed during childhood and sets the foundation for lifelong academic success. For this reason, this year’s budget provides additional funding to improve kindergarten to Grade 3 reading levels in Saskatchewan.

The budget delivers on the challenges of student enrolment growth by investing in new schools with a $191 million school capital budget. This includes ongoing funding for the 21 new or consolidated schools and three major renovations underway across Saskatchewan, as well as funding to begin planning for one new replacement school and preplanning for four new schools in the Saskatoon area.

Post-Secondary

The 2025-26 Budget also supports students as they advance into post-secondary education. It provides opportunities that will allow students to pursue post-secondary education close to home while focusing on programs that meet the needs of Saskatchewan’s labour force and provincial economy.

The Ministry of Advanced Education receives $788 million in this year’s budget, with $1.6 billion invested in post-secondary education over the past two years. As part of their budget, universities, technical schools, Indigenous institutions and regional colleges will receive $718 million in operating and capital funding.

Health care training is a key priority as part of the province’s Health Human Resources Action Plan. New and expanded programs will help build a stronger health care workforce to meet the needs of Saskatchewan residents, including training seats in areas of critical need. This includes supporting:
- 60 new training seats this year – more than 900 training seats overall – for nurse practitioners, registered psychiatric nurses and medical radiologic technologists; and
- Four new training programs that will be ready to accept students in fall 2025 (physician assistant) and fall 2026 (speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy).
The 2025-26 Budget also delivers work on strategies to address veterinary services in rural and urban communities. This includes working toward an expansion of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in the future.

To help ensure predictable and stable funding for the province’s post-secondary institutions, the 2025-26 Budget extends the current multi-year funding agreement for an additional year. The extension will allow government and post-secondary institutions time to work through the potential impacts of the federal government’s reduction of foreign student visas, before engaging in another multi-year funding agreement.

Community Safety

The 2025-26 Budget delivers safer communities across the province by enhancing the presence of law enforcement in Saskatchewan.

Over the last two years, $2 billion has been invested into community safety. For the upcoming fiscal year, the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety will receive $798 million, including $119 million for the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency, while the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General will receive $271 million.

Increases to the Municipal Police Grant Program will help frontline officers respond to more calls for service, while increased funding for the RCMP will support operations in the province and the RCMP First Nations Policing Program. The budget also includes funding for previous commitments for approximately 100 new municipal police officers, 14 new Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods personnel and funding for the Saskatchewan Police College to train more officers in the province.

This enhanced law enforcement presence extends to the border with the United States. The Saskatchewan Border Security Plan was introduced in January 2025 to mobilize Provincial Protective Services officers to work in partnership with provincial policing services and federal agencies to boost law enforcement near the border.

To complement the increased presence of law enforcement personnel, the 2025-26 Budget includes funding to improve safety for correctional staff, offenders and the public, as well as address capacity concerns at correctional facilities.

Additional investments will be made in interpersonal violence programs and services, including second-stage housing. The budget also delivers funding to create a more accessible court system for municipal bylaw offences and ensuring cases are complete and ready to move to trial more quickly.

Delivering More For You

The 2025-26 Budget delivers on the priorities of affordability, health care, education, community safety and fiscal responsibility. However, it delivers more than that. Some of the other important initiatives in this year’s budget include:
- A record $362 million in municipal revenue sharing, an increase of $22 million, or 6.3 per cent, from 2024-25.
- New funding to start multi-year repair and renovation projects for 285 Saskatchewan Housing Corporation-owned units in Saskatoon, Regina and Prince Albert.
- Funding for expanded homelessness services developed through the Provincial Approach to Homelessness. This includes investments in the Rental Development Program to partner with third-party organizations to develop new supportive housing units for people who need additional support to live independently.
- Over the past two years, funding from the Ministry of Social Services has created 120 new emergency shelter spaces, 155 new supportive housing spaces, new street outreach services and an expanded income assistance mobile workforce serving clients on-site at more than 30 community-based organization locations.
- A grant to the Food Banks of Saskatchewan to fulfill the Government of Saskatchewan’s two-year commitment to help families and food banks with high food costs.
- A $20 million increase across government in funding for community-based organizations.
- The creation of a new Saskatchewan Young Entrepreneur Bursary, which is an annual grant of $285,000 for a maximum of 57 bursaries distributed to support youth entrepreneurship in the province.
- The creation of a new Small and Medium Enterprise Investment Tax Credit, a 45 per cent non-refundable tax credit for individuals or corporations that invest in the equity of an eligible Saskatchewan small and medium size enterprise.
- Introduction of the Low Productivity and Reactivation Oil Well Program to encourage industry to make new capital investments in low-producing and inactive horizontal oil wells.
- Investment in capital projects that will improve our provincial transportation system, including:
  - Passing lanes for Highway 10 between Fort Qu’Appelle and Melville, and Highway 17 north of Lloydminster;
  - Highway 39 twinning at Weyburn;
  - Ongoing corridor improvements on Highway 5 east of Saskatoon; and
  - Improvements of more than 1,000 kilometres of provincial highways.
Fiscal Responsibility

The surplus forecast for the 2025-26 Budget leaves Saskatchewan in one of the strongest financial positions among provinces.

The surplus is driven by forecast revenues of $21.1 billion, an increase of $1.2 billion, or 6 per cent, compared to last year. Total expense is projected to be $21.0 billion, which is an increase of $909 million, or 4.5 per cent, from the 2024-25 Budget.

Non-Renewable Resources revenue accounts for 12.8 per cent of total expense in this year’s budget.

Another sign of Saskatchewan’s strong financial position is the province’s net debt position, which remains the second lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio among Canadian provinces at 14.6 per cent.

The Government of Saskatchewan’s prudent financial management is also reflected in the province’s credit ratings. Saskatchewan currently maintains the second-best credit rating among the provinces when the ratings from the three major agencies – Moody’s Investors Service, Morningstar DBRS and S&P Global – are considered.

Saskatchewan’s strong financial position in this year’s budget is buoyed by the provincial economy’s solid performance in 2024. Building upon this momentum, the Saskatchewan economy is expected to continue to grow in 2025 with real GDP projected to grow by 1.8 per cent according to the average private-sector forecast.

For more information on the 2025-26 Provincial Budget, please review the budget materials and ministry news releases on saskatchewan.ca/budget.

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For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –
March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: 2025-26 Health Budget Delivers Record Funding for Better Patient Access, More Responsive Care
Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on March 19, 2025

The 2025-26 Budget delivers on key health care commitments including better access to acute and emergency care, team-based primary care and continuing care services. This year’s budget also supports progress on the Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan, accelerates health care workforce hiring and continues building on future infrastructure projects, including new hospitals, long-term care homes and additional urgent care centres.

The record Ministry of Health budget is $8.07 billion, an increase of $484.6 million, or 6.4 per cent, over the previous year. The Saskatchewan Health Authority will receive a $261.1 million increase, or 5.6 per cent, for a total record budget of $4.94 billion.

“This year’s budget delivers on key commitments to deliver more timely access to our health care system,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “Our government will provide significant budget investments to increase access to acute care in Saskatoon, perform more surgeries, increase access to specialized diagnostic imaging and invest in programs that connect all Saskatchewan residents to a primary health care provider.

“This budget also expands glucose monitoring coverage to vastly improve quality of life and ease financial impacts for nearly 10,000 Saskatchewan people with diabetes. We will open the highly anticipated Breast Health Centre in Regina to provide a full range of services and wraparound support for women experiencing a challenging diagnosis.”

The 2025-26 Budget provides better access to acute health care services for safer, more responsive patient care with total investment increases of $88.1 million.

Plans to ramp up surgical volumes this year through a $15.1 million investment increase will kickstart ambitious plans to perform 450,000 procedures over four years and reduce surgical wait times. This investment will introduce the innovative robot-assisted surgery program at Pasqua Hospital in Regina and enhance other services to meet this aggressive four-year surgical target.

Optimizing space and realigning services at Saskatoon City Hospital will help address capacity pressures in Saskatoon with a multi-phased approach to open more than 100 acute care beds. This $30.0 million investment will support physical space upgrades to expand acute care and convert outpatient and other spaces to inpatient units.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will receive a $6.6 million increase for additional paramedics in the system and Diagnostic Imaging will receive a $6.0 million boost to increase specialized medical imaging volumes to continue gains made in patient wait times.

Other 2025-26 acute care investment increases include:
- $7.6 million for enhanced and expanded pediatric care, including specialist recruitment in areas of endocrinology, rheumatology and other specialties. The budget will also support additional multidisciplinary staff and physicians in pediatric gastroenterology, allergy and immunology, and cardiology programs, as well as enhancements to physician staffing at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Prince Albert;
- $6.6 million for HealthLine 811’s Virtual ER Physician Program to expand support to a minimum of 25 small-to-medium rural Emergency Department locations;
- $4.3 million to bolster the province’s kidney health programs to better meet patient demand for hemodialysis services closer to home;
- $2.0 million for enhanced laboratory medicine services;
- $1.9 million to complete and fully staff the new Breast Health Centre in Regina; and
- $1.9 million to support operational costs for the Regina Urgent Care Centre.
“Rural and northern Saskatchewan receive important focus in this budget with extensive kidney health enhancements and staffing for satellite hemodialysis services in rural locations, including Meadow Lake, North Battleford, Tisdale and Fort Qu’Appelle,” Rural and Remote Minister Lori Carr said. “A virtual ER physician program demonstrating great success will expand to more rural communities at risk of service disruptions this year, and increases to EMS will improve response times and stabilize services across the province.”

The 2025-26 Budget will deliver better and more prompt patient access to team-based primary care settings and preventative care initiatives to meet the health care needs of Saskatchewan people with a $42.4 million increased investment.

A $5.0 million increase will support primary care improvements, including the expansion of a new model of care called Patient Medical Homes to new communities following a successful pilot in Swift Current that demonstrated better access to primary care for patients.

In addition, a $7.1 million increase is provided for immunizations and program enhancements. Beginning April 1, 2025, nearly 10,000 Saskatchewan patients managing diabetes will benefit from a $23.0 million investment for a Glucose Monitoring Expansion Program for young adults aged 25-and-under and seniors aged 65-plus.

The 2025-26 Budget also includes new funding to support the transition to HPV self-screening for cervical cancer, make progress on a provincial lung cancer screening program, lower breast cancer screening eligibility to age 43 and support operations to add a second mobile mammography bus that will increase capacity for women in rural and northern Saskatchewan.

The 2025-26 Budget will further provincial commitments to accelerate the hiring and growth of the health care professional workforce in the third year of the ambitious, multi-year Health Human Resources Action Plan to recruit, train, incentivize and retain employees.

The College of Medicine will add 10 more in-province physician training seats for family medicine, anesthesia, plastic surgery and other specialties, for a total of 150 provincial seats, as part of a $7.4 million increase.

Supports for 65 new and enhanced permanent full-time nursing positions in 30 rural and northern locations across Saskatchewan for improved nursing stability and reduced reliance on contract nurses will receive a $4.9 million increase.

In addition, this year’s budget includes an additional $94.6 million increase for physician services to support the province’s efforts to recruit and retain doctors, including funding for negotiated Saskatchewan Medical Association fee increases, increased utilization of services and additional physicians.

This year’s budget will continue building momentum on strategic investments and successful programming within the multi-year Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan to improve patient access to professionals and services, delivering the help and support needed to overcome mental health and addictions challenges. This budget provides new capital funding to expand Complex Needs Emergency Shelters into new communities.

Saskatchewan residents will see steady and significant progress throughout the province on multiple infrastructure projects, such as new hospital builds and long-term care facilities, with a total record capital investment of $656.9 million, a $140.1 million increase over last year.

Major infrastructure investments include:
- $322.4 million for Prince Albert Victoria Hospital construction;
- $40.0 million for Regina Long-Term Care Specialized Beds construction;
- $33.8 million for construction of the La Ronge Long-Term Care facility;
- $24.4 million for Weyburn General Hospital construction;
- $10.0 million for Grenfell Long-Term Care project construction; and
- $3.0 million to advance the Saskatoon Urgent Care Centre (UCC), in partnership with Ahtahkakoop Cree Developments.
Due to the success of Regina’s UCC model in reducing emergency room pressures and providing access to thousands of patients, planning is underway for additional UCCs in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert and North Battleford, as well as second UCCs in Regina and Saskatoon.

Additional funding will continue to support ongoing projects, including the Yorkton Regional Health Centre, Rosthern Hospital, Royal University Hospital’s ICU Expansion, Saskatchewan Cancer Agency’s (SCA) Saskatoon Patient Lodge, Esterhazy Integrated Care Facility and long-term care projects in several communities including Regina, the Battlefords, Watson and Estevan.

Other capital investments include leading-edge and upgraded technology, equipment and innovations to shape the future of health care.

The 2025-26 Budget will ensure Saskatchewan people receive strengthened continuing care support to remain at home and within their communities for as long as possible. A $7.1 million increase will fund care for all ages – from children with complex medical needs to seniors – to support individuals of all ages and patients in the most appropriate community setting.

The SCA will continue to deliver access to world-class care with additional funding toward oncology drugs, therapies and treatment options. The SCA will see an increase of $30.4 million, or 12.2 per cent, for a total record budget of $279.3 million.

The 2025-26 Budget also delivers on the Government of Saskatchewan’s commitment to provide a Fertility Treatment Tax Credit to improve affordability for individuals and couples to access fertility treatments.

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For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –
March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Automatic Mutual Recognition expanded in NSW

Source: New South Wales Premiere

Published: 19 March 2025

Released by: Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading

The Minns Labor Government has moved to make it easier for more qualified workers from interstate to operate in NSW after the passing of new laws last night expanding Automatic Mutual Recognition (AMR) to more industries.

From 1 July 2025, conveyancers, real estate and property agents, and automotive industry workers from interstate will be allowed to work in NSW without having to get a separate NSW licence.

The AMR scheme supports workers and businesses across Australia by facilitating worker movement between states by reducing red tape and removing the need to apply and pay for another licence.

Under AMR, interstate licensees must also meet relevant mandatory compensation fund obligations while working here.

The Minns Labor Government has acted carefully to ensure consumers across the state are protected by the same regulatory enforcement as people licenced to work in these industries in NSW.

The laws passed by the Minns Labor Government allow NSW Fair Trading to calculate and collect compensation fund contributions from conveyancers, property and stock agents, and motor dealers and repairers, ensuring customers can seek compensation as a last resort if they suffer a financial loss caused by an interstate operator.

From 1 July 2025, conveyancers, real estate and property agents, and automotive occupations will join the range of trades and professions already covered under the AMR scheme, including electrical, tow trucks, some construction trades, and traffic control industries.

For more information please visit the Browse your occupation webpage.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong:

“This legislation recognises the licenced interstate workers we need and supports both workers and businesses across Australia by removing red tape and reducing costs, which will allow NSW businesses access to a larger employment market.

“With more occupations now added since the Automatic Mutual Recognition scheme was introduced in 2021, it now allows more workers greater movement across industries with similar national standards, while still maintaining and protecting consumer rights.”

MIL OSI News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Hong Kong: Article 23 law used to ‘normalize’ repression one year since enactment – Amnesty International

Source: Amnesty International

Just one year after its passage, Hong Kong’s Article 23 law has further squeezed people’s freedoms and enabled authorities to intensify their crackdown on peaceful activism in the city and beyond, Amnesty International said.

“Over the past year, Article 23 has been used to entrench a ‘new normal’ of systematic repression of dissent, criminalizing peaceful acts in increasingly absurd ways,” said Amnesty International’s China Director Sarah Brooks.

“People have been targeted and harshly punished for the clothes they wear as well as the things they say and write, or for minor acts of protest, intensifying the climate of fear that already pervaded Hong Kong. Freedom of expression has never been under greater attack.”

People convicted and jailed for peaceful expression

The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (known as Article 23) took effect on 23 March 2024. Amnesty International’s analysis shows that 16 people have since been arrested for sedition under Article 23. Five of them were officially charged under the law, and the other 11 were released without charge. None of those arrested is accused of engaging in violence, while the authorities have accused two of them of inciting violence without yet disclosing any details.

Three of the charged individuals – after facing around three months’ pre-trial detention – were convicted for, respectively, wearing a T-shirt and mask printed with protest slogans; criticizing the government online; and writing protest slogans on bus seats. They were sentenced to between 10 and 14 months in prison.

The remaining two charged people have been held in detention awaiting trial since November 2024 and January 2025, respectively. They are accused of publishing “seditious” posts on social media platforms.

Article 23 entrenches denial of bail

The presumption against bail in national security cases, originally imposed by the Beijing-enacted National Security Law (NSL), has now been extended to offences under Article 23. Among the five individuals charged under Article 23, the two who applied for bail had their applications denied because the magistrate believed they may “continue to commit acts endangering national security” – the same reasoning used to deny bail to others prosecuted under the NSL, including newspaper founder Jimmy Lai and opposition politicians.

The remaining 11 individuals arrested under Article 23 are variously accused of publishing “seditious” posts, commemorating the 1989 Tiananmen crackdown and spreading “disinformation”. Despite having been released by the police without official charge, they remain at risk of prosecution at any time because Article 23 does not impose a time limit on bringing criminal charges.

“Article 23 has been wielded by the Hong Kong government as a tool to suppress critical voices with the ultimate aim of eradicating them. Alongside the NSL, it has handed the authorities virtually unchecked power to arrest and jail anybody criticizing the government. The result is a Hong Kong where people are forced to second-guess what they say and write, and even what they wear,” Sarah Brooks said.

“The now default use of pre-trial detention and refusal of bail are alarming examples of how Article 23 has been used to reinforce the repressive tools first introduced under the NSL.”

‘National security’ as a trump card overriding established laws

Article 23 has also been weaponized to impose additional punitive measures against dissidents already serving sentences. Under the existing Prison Rules, last amended in 2014, prisoners with good conduct were eligible for early release after serving two-thirds of their sentences. However, according to new rules set by Article 23, the prison authorities can waive this practice if the release would be “contrary to the interests of national security”.

Notably, at least two jailed activists have been denied early release, despite the fact that they were not convicted under Article 23 and had already begun serving their sentences before its enactment.

One of the activists – who was convicted of incitement to wound, a charge unrelated to any national security legislation – was barred from early release despite Article 23 expressly stating that the new rules apply only to prisoners convicted of offences endangering national security.

“Retroactively denying early release based on vague national security justifications undermines legal certainty and due process. The government’s failure to comply with the very text that it drafted further raises serious concerns about the arbitrary application of Article 23,” Sarah Brooks said.

Extraterritorial application against overseas activists

The worrying impact of Article 23 on human rights is not restricted to Hong Kong. Authorities have invoked Article 23’s extraterritorial scope to penalize a total of 13 Hong Kong activists residing overseas, including in the UK, the US, Canada and Australia. These penalties have included the cancellation of passports, suspension of lawyer licenses, removal from company directorships and prohibition of financial transactions, restricting a range of human rights such as their freedom of movement, right to privacy and right to work.

These measures have been imposed alongside arrest warrants issued under the NSL, each carrying a HK$1 million (US$128,700) bounty, for these 13 individuals and six other overseas activists.

“By sanctioning activists overseas, the Hong Kong government is attempting to extend its draconian laws beyond its borders to target potentially anyone, anywhere. The situation has resulted in a chilling effect on individuals who persist in exercising their freedom of expression, even after departing from the city. The international community cannot afford to ignore Article 23’s intended extraterritorial reach,” Sarah Brooks said.

“We urge the Hong Kong and Chinese governments to immediately repeal Article 23, the NSL and any other legislation which violates international human rights laws and standards. We also call on other governments to safeguard the fundamental rights and freedoms of Hongkongers, in particular those actively defending human rights, within their jurisdictions.

“The rising risk of transnational repression, which Amnesty has documented and which is explicitly tied to Hong Kong’s national security legislation, demands a response by governments worldwide. As a start, that means denouncing incidents of transnational repression and pursuing accountability for criminal acts targeting activists and others in the country of residence.”

Background

On 19 March 2024, Hong Kong’s Legislative Council unanimously voted to pass the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance based on Article 23 of the Basic Law, Hong Kong’s mini-constitution.

The law, which took effect on 23 March 2024, introduced China’s definition of “national security” and “state secrets”, together with other broadly defined offences which further restricted freedom of expression and the right to protest. It also replaced a widely used colonial-era sedition law with its own provisions on sedition which now expressly cover acts or speech which do not incite violence. The maximum prison sentence for sedition was increased from two to seven years, or up to 10 years if involving “collusion with an external force”.

Amnesty International submitted an analysis of its proposals to the government during the consultation period, concluding that the offences and changes to investigatory powers are contrary to Hong Kong’s human rights obligations. After the law was passed, Amnesty International issued a briefing paperproviding an in-depth analysis of the effects of the law on both Chinese and non-Chinese individuals, in particular via its purported extraterritorial application.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) Joins Ecobank and Soto Gallery for 2nd edition of the +234Art Fair to elevate African art and empower artists

SOURCE: Africa Finance Corporation (AFC)

Visitors will experience a wide range of artistic expressions, including painting, sculpture, visual and digital art, installations, and more

LAGOS, Nigeria, March 19, 2025/ — Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the leading infrastructure solutions provider in Africa, has announced its support for the +234Art Fair, coming on as partners for the second year in a row. This aligns with the Corporation’s commitment to empowering and elevating the continent’s youth, with more than 260 young artists expressing interest in exhibiting their works at the second edition of the international art fair, organized by Soto Gallery in collaboration with Ecobank Nigeria Limited, AFC and Craneburg Construction Company.

This meticulously curated five-day event, titled “Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art,” will feature the works of emerging and un-galleried artists. The fair will run from March 27th to March 31st at the Ecobank Pan African Centre, located at 270B1, Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Victoria Island, starting daily at 10:00 AM.

Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of the Africa Finance Corporation, stated, “The +234Art Fair aligns with AFC’s advocacy strategy of empowering and elevating Africa’s youthful population, thereby fostering job creation, skills development, value retention and rapid economic growth. We are proud to continue our collaboration with Ecobank to help drive Africa’s creative industry forward by creating a catalyst for promoting African art and artists locally and on the global stage.”

Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director and Regional Executive, Ecobank Nigeria, shared, “As a Pan-African bank, this fair is an important initiative in our commitment to economic growth and investing in Africa’s next generation of talent. It offers emerging artists a unique opportunity to showcase their works to key decision-makers, influencers, and a global audience.”

Mrs. Tola Akerele, Founder of +234 Art Fair and Soto Gallery Foundation, emphasized, “Patronage in the art world goes beyond financial support; it’s about building relationships that allow artists to grow and sustain their creative practices. The 2025 edition of the +234 Art Fair aims to show how meaningful support can impact an artist’s journey and the broader art ecosystem, fostering essential connections along the way.”

The +234 Art Fair celebrates the dynamic talents of Nigeria’s emerging artists, offering them a vital platform to share their work with a broader audience. Visitors will experience a wide range of artistic expressions, including painting, sculpture, visual and digital art, installations, and more. The fair will also feature interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities for artists, art enthusiasts, and key stakeholders in the creative sector.

The event is expected to draw a diverse group of attendees, including Nigerians, Africans, international residents, government officials, policymakers, diplomats, and global art lovers.

About AFC:
AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC’s approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

Seventeen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 45 member countries and has invested over US$15 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.

www.AfricaFC.org

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Dairy and Business – Fonterra’s momentum delivers strong FY25 interim earnings and dividend
Source: Fonterra

Operating profit: NZ $1,107 million, up 16%

Profit after tax: NZ $729 million, up 8% 

Earnings per share: 44 cents per share, up 10%

Return on capital: 10.2% down from 13.4%

Interim dividend, fully imputed: 22 cents per share

Forecast Farmgate Milk Price range narrows: NZ $9.70 – $10.30 per kgMS

Forecast milk collections: 1,510 million kgMS, up 2.7%  

FY25 full year forecast earnings range: 55-75 cents per share.

Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd today announced a positive FY25 interim result as the Co-op continues to make good progress on implementing its strategy.

Fonterra has reported a half year Profit after Tax of $729 million, earnings of 44 cents per share and a decision to pay an interim dividend of 22 cents per share, alongside a 2024/25 season forecast Farmgate Milk Price midpoint of $10.00 per kgMS.

Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell says it’s pleasing to be able to deliver these results for farmer shareholders and unit holders.

“We’re focusing on driving value which includes delivering strong financial performance while achieving the highest sustainable Farmgate Milk Price,” says Mr Hurrell.

“At the same time, we’re looking ahead as we implement our strategy and continue to invest for the future. We have commenced projects to unlock manufacturing production capacity for our Ingredients and Foodservice channels, with site works now underway at Studholme for high-value protein capacity and at Edendale for a new UHT cream plant.

“We’re also continuing to invest to future proof our operations and supply chain network, with work underway on a new Whareroa coolstore and plans for decarbonisation projects at Clandeboye, Edendale, Edgecumbe and Whareroa to secure energy supply and reduce the Co-op’s emissions.

“As we focus on delivering the strongest farmer offering, we have announced new funding for farmers with lower emissions milk and expanded the Fixed Milk Price programme that farmers can use to get more certainty around the Farmgate Milk Price,” says Mr Hurrell.

Farmgate Milk Price

Fonterra is committed to delivering the highest sustainable Farmgate Milk Price to farmers. For the current season, the forecast Farmgate Milk Price range is narrowing from $9.50-$10.50 per kgMS to $9.70-$10.30, with the midpoint holding at $10.00 per kgMS.

“We’re seeing good demand for our quality products, and our teams have worked hard to optimise our product portfolio to capture value from the market conditions, leaving us well contracted for the season.

“We have also optimised the current season’s Advance Rate Schedule to get cash to farmers sooner, underpinned by our balance sheet strength.

“In terms of milk flows, our forecast milk collections for the year are up 2.7% on this time last year to 1,510 million kgMS. This follows favourable pasture growth across most of New Zealand earlier in the season, noting many parts of the country are currently experiencing very dry conditions,” says Mr Hurrell.

Business performance

Fonterra’s strong half year performance was underpinned by an optimised product mix, designed to capture value across the Co-op’s sales channels.

“Our robust first half performance saw earnings growing alongside the strong Farmgate Milk Price, reflecting the strength of our core business.

“Ingredients channel performance has been a highlight this half, with sales volume down 3.9% and operating profit up $229 million to $696 million, reflecting better margins and improved product mix.

“Our Foodservice channel has seen sales volume growth of 8.3% this half, with Q2 gross margins significantly up on Q1 as pricing adjusted to the higher milk price. Foodservice operating profit for the half was a healthy $230 million, compared to the record high of $342 million in FY24 when input costs were much lower.

“The Consumer channel saw good sales volumes, up 8.5%, and margin growth, despite the higher Farmgate Milk Price,with operating profit largely flat on prior period at $173 million.

“Meanwhile, our IT & Digital transformation project, a once in a generation replacement of the Co-op’s Enterprise Resource Planning software, is progressing well and remains on budget. The project is expected to cost NZ $450-500 million across six years and annual expenditure reaches its peak in FY25 at $130 million. This spend is included in our previously announced earnings forecast and despite this spend, our FY25 results remain strong,” says Mr Hurrell.

Outlook

We have recently increased Fonterra’s FY25 full year forecast earnings range to 55-75 cents per share*, which reflects the underlying strength of our core business as well as the resilience in our Consumer channel.

“The Co-op is in a great shape, with milk collections, the forecast Farmgate Milk Price and earnings performance all up on this time last year.

“As we look to the balance of the year ahead, we’re focused on maintaining this momentum in performance, while progressing delivery of our strategy, including the dual-track Consumer divestment process which is on track as planned,” says Mr Hurrell.

Note: *This forecast earnings range reflects Fonterra’s underlying earnings before any deduction for forecast costs associated with the Consumer divestment. When the Fonterra Board considers the full year dividend for FY25, it will consider, amongst other factors, the nature of the underlying earnings and whether it is appropriate to include any costs associated with asset sales in the financial year.
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Protecting Alberta from unconstitutional federal overreach
[. The Critical Infrastructure Defence Amendment Act, 2025, would make amendments to the CIDA to update the definition of essential infrastructure to include facilities where oil and gas production and emission data and records are held, as well as the two-kilometre-deep border zone north of the Alberta-United States border.

“Our government will continue using every tool we can to defend the best interests of Albertans, our economy, and our industry. These amendments would further assert Alberta’s exclusive provincial jurisdiction to develop its natural resources and ensure our southern border remains secure. We will not tolerate the continuous and unconstitutional overreaches made by the federal government. Alberta will continue its pursuit of doubling our oil and gas production to meet the growing global demand for energy and we will not let Ottawa stand in the way of our province’s future prosperity.”

Danielle Smith, Premier

“Whether securing our border or calling on the federal government to scrap its harmful, job-killing emissions cap, our government will always prioritize public safety and defend Alberta’s interests. These amendments will ensure we have the necessary tools to protect our economy, industry and economic prosperity right now and in the years to come.

Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General

Updating the Critical Infrastructure Defence Act to include facilities where oil and gas production and emission data and records are held will help protect Alberta’s economy and the province’s ability to continue producing responsible energy to meet the world’s growing demands. These amendments are in line with the Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act motion, passed in December 2024, which stated that all emissions data be exclusively owned by the province, and if the federal government’s proposed emissions cap is found to be unconstitutional, federal enforcement officers would have no reason to conduct emissions cap inspections or collect data.

“This production cap will kill tens of thousands of jobs and devastate Alberta’s economy, all while global emissions rise. Protecting Alberta’s emissions data is part of our plan to defend our province if the proposed cap ever becomes law. We will never let the federal Liberal government sacrifice Alberta’s prosperity for their extreme ideological agenda.”

Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

The Critical Infrastructure Defence Act protects essential infrastructure by creating offences under the act for trespassing, interfering with operations or causing damage. Proposed amendments would also explicitly state the act applies to the federal government.

As part of government’s efforts to strengthen security in the area near the international border, a two-kilometre-deep border zone north of the entire Alberta-United States border was designated as essential infrastructure in the Critical Infrastructure Defence Regulation in January 2025. These legislative changes would further enshrine this in legislation.

“The proposed amendments are vital to increasing border security along Alberta’s southern USA border. Let this be a message to all potential traffickers, especially those who traffic deadly fentanyl, that Alberta’s southern border is secure. Anyone caught trespassing in the red zone, interfering with, or damaging essential infrastructure, and those who do not have a lawful right to be on the essential infrastructure will be arrested.”

Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

The Critical Infrastructure Amendment Act will combine the definition of essential infrastructure in one place by including the two-kilometre border zone, as designated in the regulation, into the act. These changes would help protect Alberta’s economy, industry and prosperity and ensure peace officers have the tools needed to strengthen security in the area near the international border.

Related information
- Bill 45: Critical Infrastructure Defence Amendment Act, 2025
Related news
- Protecting Alberta’s economic future from Ottawa (Nov. 26, 2024)
Multimedia
- Watch the news conference
- Listen to the news conference
MIL OSI Canada News –
March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government of India Taking Measures Against Online Pornography

Source: Government of India

Government of India Taking Measures Against Online Pornography

New IT Rules Mandate Faster Removal of Harmful Online Content

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 9:44PM by PIB Delhi

The policies of the Central Government are aimed at ensuring an open, safe, trusted and accountable Internet for its users.

The Information Technology Act, 2000 (“IT Act”) provides punishment for publishing or transmitting obscene material and material containing sexually explicit act in electronic form. The IT Act also has stringent punishment for publishing or transmitting of material depicting children in sexually explicit act in electronic form.

Also, the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (“IT Rules, 2021”) casts obligations on the intermediaries, including social media intermediaries, to observe due diligence and if they fail to observe such due diligence, they lose the exemption from their liability under law for third-party information or data or communication link hosted by them. Such due diligence includes that in case a significant social media intermediary is providing services primarily in the nature of messaging shall enable the identification of the first originator of the information on its computer resource for the purposes of prevention, detection, investigation, prosecution or punishment of an offence related to rape, sexually explicit material or child sexual abuse material.

Such due diligence also includes that intermediaries shall remove within 24 hours any content which prima facie exposes the private area of any individual, shows such individual in full or partial nudity or shows or depicts such individual in any sexual act or conduct. Further, the rules provide for the establishment of one or more Grievance Appellate Committee(s) to allow users to appeal against decisions taken by Grievance Officers of social media intermediary on such complaints.

To ensure a good and healthy entertainment in accordance with the provisions of the Cinematograph Act 1952 and the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules 1983, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), regulates the public exhibition of films including adult films. According to the guidelines issued by them, films which are considered unsuitable for exhibition to non-adults shall be certified for exhibition to adult audiences only.

Further for online publishers of curated content, the IT Rules, 2021 prescribes the code of ethics publishers of online curated content, commonly known as OTT Platforms. This code requires the OTT Platforms to classify content in specified age-appropriate categories, restrict access of age-inappropriate content by children, and implement an age verification mechanism for content classified as “Adult”.

To further strengthen the mechanism to deal with such cybercrimes in a coordinated manner, the Government has also taken several other measures, including the following:

(i) The Ministry of Home Affairs operates a National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in) to enable citizens to report complaints pertaining to all types of cybercrimes, with special focus on cybercrimes against children. The Ministry has also set up the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) to deal with all types of cybercrime, including cybercrime against children, in a coordinated and comprehensive manner.

(ii) The Ministry of Home Affairs has provided financial assistance to States and Union territories under the Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children Scheme for capacity building, including for the setting up of cyber forensic-cum-training laboratories and training of personnel of law enforcement agencies, public prosecutors and judicial officers.

(iii) Government has from time to time blocked websites containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), based on lists from Interpol received through the Central Bureau of Investigation, India’s national nodal agency for Interpol.

(iv) Government has issued an order to Internet Service Providers, directing them to implement Internet Watch Foundation, UK or Project Arachnid, Canada list of CSAM websites/webpages on a dynamic basis and block access to such web pages or websites.

(v) The Dep artment of Telecommunications has requested Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to spread awareness among their subscribers about the use of parental control filters, and has also directed ISPs with International Long-Distance license to block certain websites found to be containing CSAM.

(vi) To spread awareness on cybercrime, the Ministry of Home Affairs has taken several steps that include dissemination of messages on cybercrime through the Twitter handle @cyberDost, radio campaigns and publishing of a Handbook for Adolescents/Students.

(vii) A MoU has been signed between the National Crimes Record Bureau (NCRB), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), USA regarding sharing of Tipline reports on online child explicit material and child sexual exploitation contents from NCMEC. The Tip lines, as received from NCMEC, are being shared with States/UTs online through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal for taking further action.

This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

***

Dharmendra Tewari/Navin Sreejith

(Release ID: 2113098) Visitor Counter : 36

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 20, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government of India Expands AI-Driven Skilling

Source: Government of India

Government of India Expands AI-Driven Skilling
India AI Mission Gains Momentum with 67 Proposals for Indigenous AI Models

Digital India Bhashini Initiative Boosts AI-Powered Vernacular Language Accessibility

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 9:40PM by PIB Delhi

The Government of India emphasizes the concept of ‘AI for All,’ aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision to democratise the use of technology. This initiative aims to ensure that AI benefits all sectors of society, driving innovation and growth.

India is regarded as the skills capital in technology and Artificial Intelligence. The most reliable ranking in AI is placing India among the top countries with AI Skills, AI capabilities, and policies to use AI. Stanford University has ranked India among the top four countries along with the US, China, and the UK in the Global and National AI vibrancy ranking based on 42 indicators. GitHub, which is community of developers has ranked India at the top with the global share of 24% of all projects.

Government is committed to harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for the good of our people in various sectors. At the same time, the Government is cognizant of the risks posed by AI and the need to create guardrails to ensure that AI is safe and trusted.

The Government of Maharashtra has informed that Meta’s AI model is an informational chatbot which is currently in its preliminary stage.

Union Cabinet led by Hon’ble Prime Minister has approved the IndiaAI Mission on 7^th March 2024, a strategic initiative to establish a robust and inclusive AI ecosystem that aligns with the country’s development goals. This mission is driven by a vision to position India as a global leader in artificial intelligence by focusing on seven foundational pillars: IndiaAI Compute, IndiaAIFutureSkills, IndiaAI Startup Financing, IndiaAI Innovation Centre, IndiaAI Datasets Platform, IndiaAI Applications Development Initiative and Safe & Trusted AI.

One of the key pillars of the IndiaAI Mission is IndiaAI Innovation Centre (IAIC), under which IndiaAI on 30^th January, 2025, launched a Call for Proposals inviting proposals from startups, researchers, and entrepreneurs to collaborate on building state-of-the-art foundational AI models trained on Indian datasets. The initiative aims to establish indigenous AI models that align with global standards while addressing unique challenges and opportunities within the Indian context.

In the first month, IndiaAI Mission has received a total of 67 proposals till 15th February 2025 aimed at building India’s foundation models, with contributions from both established startups and new teams of researchers & academia. 22 are focused on Large Language Models (LLMs) & Large Multimodal Models (LMMs), while the remaining 45 are centered on domain-specific models (SLMs). The majority of SLMs target key sectors such as healthcare, education, and financial services. Along with funding support, a wide range of GPUs have been requested by teams submitting these proposals.

Further, Government of India through MeitY implemented the Digital India Bhashini initiative to provide Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven language technology solutions through the Bhashini platform (https://bhashini.gov.in) for all 22 Scheduled Indian Languages including Marathi, providing voice-based access, and to assist in the creation of content in Indian languages. Digital India Bhashini aims to build speech-to-speech machine translation systems for various Indian languages and dialects and to evolve a Unified Language Interface (ULI). This initiative enabled citizens to access digital services in their vernacular languages, further increasing digital inclusion and accessibility, as recommended in SDG 10 (Reduce inequality within and among countries). In collaboration with over 70 research institutes, Bhashini has been at the forefront of developing state-of-the-art language AI models for Indian languages. The platform currently hosts over 350 AI-based language models, encompassing Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR), Machine Translation (MT), Text-to-Speech (TTS), Optical Character Recognition (OCR), and other services like Transliteration and Textual Language Detection, covering over 17+ language services.

Additionally, IndiaAI in collaboration with Meta has announced the establishment of the Center for Generative AI, Srijan (सृजन) at IIT Jodhpur, along with the launch of the “YuvAi Initiative for Skilling and Capacity Building” in collaboration with the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), for the advancement of open source artificial intelligence (AI) in India. The partnership will enable development of indigenous AI applications, advance skill development in AI, boost research capabilities with the aim of contributing to India’s AI mission of ensuring tech sovereignty and the vision of building AI solutions that are tailor-made for India. Through education, capacity building, and policy advisory, the Government of India will be empowering the next generation of researchers, students, and practitioners with the knowledge and tools necessary for the responsible development and deployment of GenAI technologies.

The Government of India is focused to meet the growing demand for professionals in emerging fields like data science and Artificial Intelligence (AI), some of the initiatives by the Government of India to integrate Al and cybersecurity training into existing skill development programs are as under:

MeitY through CERT-In conducts joint cybersecurity training programs in collaboration with Industry partners to upskill the cybersecurity workforce in Government, public and private organizations with the latest skills. Technical training sessions in the area of AI-powered cybersecurity threats were conducted with experts from Industry to help the participants understand the latest threat landscape and best practices. Also, CERT-In provided expert support in the Gen AI Exchange Hackathon organized by industry partners for working professionals, student developers, freelancers and entrepreneurs in October 2024.
MeitY has initiated ‘FutureSkills PRIME’ a programme for Re-skilling/Up-skilling of IT Manpower for Employability in new/emerging technologies namely Artificial Intelligence, Robotic Process Automation, Augmented/Virtual Reality, Internet of Things, Big Data Analytics, Additive Manufacturing/ 3D Printing, Cloud Computing, Social & Mobile, Cyber Security, and Blockchain. Under the FutureSkills Prime program, there are 119 courses specifically focused on the cutting-edge fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
MeitY launched the Visvesvaraya PhD Scheme in 2014 with the objective of enhancing the number of PhDs in the country to compete globally in the knowledge-intensive sectors of Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) and IT/IT Enabled Services (IT/ITES). Under the scheme, financial support is provided to Full-time & Part-time PhD candidates and Young Faculty who are undertaking research and technology development. The Scheme also provides infrastructure support to institutions.

MeitY through IndiaAIFutureSkills Pillar aims to increase the number of graduates, postgraduates, and PhD scholars in the AI domain while establishing Data and AI Labs in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to offer foundational courses in Data and AI. As part of this initiative, IndiaAI Fellowships are awarded to students pursuing relevant undergraduate and postgraduate programs at Private or Centrally Funded Technical Institutes (CFTIs) recognized by AICTE, NBA, NAAC, or UGC. So far, 150 undergraduate students, 48 postgraduate students, and 3 PhD scholars have been selected for the fellowship. Additionally, IndiaAI has set up Data Labs at NIELIT’s Delhi centre and ICIT, Nagaland, with plans to establish 27 more labs in collaboration with NIELIT across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, details of which are placed in Annexure I.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology Shri Jitin Prasada in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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Annexure I

List of Data & AI labs planned by IndiaAI in collaboration with NIELIT in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities across the country:

S.No.	NIELIT Centre	State/UT
1	Gorakhpur	Uttar Pradesh
2	Lucknow	Uttar Pradesh
3	Shimla	Himachal Pradesh
4	Aurangabad	Maharashtra
5	Patna	Bihar
6	Buxar	Bihar
7	Muzaffarpur	Bihar
8	Kurukshetra	Haryana
9	Ropar	Punjab
10	Haridwar	Uttarakhand
11	Bikaner	Rajasthan
12	Tezpur	Assam
13	Bhubaneswar	Odisha
14	Calicut	Kerala
15	Guwahati	Assam
16	Itanagar	Arunachal Pradesh
17	Srinagar	J&K
18	Jammu	J&K
19	Ranchi	Jharkhand
20	Imphal	Manipur
21	Gangtok	Sikkim
22	Agartala	Tripura
23	Aizawl	Mizoram
24	Shillong	Meghalaya
25	Kohima	Nagaland
26	Leh	Ladakh
27	Silchar	Assam

Dharmendra Tewari/Navin Sreejith

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 20, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKETO holds spring reception in Tokyo to celebrate arrival of spring and flower blossom season (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

HKETO holds spring reception in Tokyo to celebrate arrival of spring and flower blossom season
Speaking to guests from various sectors including Japanese political and business circles, academia, media and community groups, the Principal Hong Kong Economic and Trade Representative (Tokyo), Miss Winsome Au, said that Hong Kong and Japan have strengthened economic and trade relations, flourished through collaborations on different fronts, and made shared achievements together in the past year.

She noted that Hong Kong was the fifth-largest inbound tourist source market for Japan, reaching more than 2.68 million tourists for 2024, and remained the second-largest export market for Japanese agricultural, forestry and fishery products in the year.

“With direct connections to 15 airports in Japan, and soon 18, we are confident that our people-to-people exchanges will continue to grow,” Miss Au added.

On the business front, she noted that over 1 430 Japanese companies operate in Hong Kong, making them the largest group from overseas. Notably, Invest Hong Kong has attracted over 500 enterprises outside Hong Kong to set up in the city in 2024, with more renowned Japanese brands expanding their presence.

She also updated the guests of the latest developments of Hong Kong, and shared with them the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s measures to fast-track Hong Kong’s economy through reform and innovation in the 2025-26 Budget and the 2024 Policy Address.

The spring reception was organised by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Tokyo), and supported by Invest Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
Issued at HKT 23:09

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Categories24-7, Asia Pacific, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Government special administrative region, MIL OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Govt Plans Sagarmala 2.0 with New Funding to Bridge Infrastructure Gaps”: Sarbananda Sonowal

Source: Government of India (2)

“Govt Plans Sagarmala 2.0 with New Funding to Bridge Infrastructure Gaps”: Sarbananda Sonowal

“Govt Invests ₹5.79 Trillion under Sagarmala to Develop 839 Projects in India”: Sarbananda Sonowal

Sagarmala Start Up Innovation Initiative (S2I2) Launched at NSAC, to Foster Innovation & Entrepreneurship in Maritime Sector

4th National Sagarmala Apex Committee Meet Decides to Boost Port Led Development

“Modi Government Committed to Maritime Sector Transformation Under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision Roadmap (MAKV 2047)”: Sarbananda Sonowal

“Maritime sector will witness a new wave of RISE — Research, Innovation, Startups, and Entrepreneurship”: Sarbananda Sonowal

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 7:54PM by PIB Delhi

The 4th National Sagarmala Apex Committee (NSAC) meet decided to boost port led development and enhance maritime infrastructure of the country. The meet reviewed the implementation status of key projects under the “Sagarmala” — the flagship programme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW).

The Ministry is executing 839 projects worth ₹5.79 lakh crore under the Sagarmala Programme, with 272 projects already completed at an investment of ₹1.41 lakh crore. Under Sagarmala, 234 port modernisation projects worth ₹2.91 lakh crore are underway, with 103 projects completed, adding 230 MTPA capacity. In connectivity, 279 projects worth ₹2.06 lakh crore are being implemented, with 92 projects completed, boosting 1,500 km of port links. Port-led industrialisation saw 14 projects worth ₹55,000 crore, with 9 completed. Over 310 projects worth ₹26,000 crore under Coastal Community Development and Inland Waterways have benefitted 30,000+ fishermen and coastal infrastructure. The Ministry has also provided ₹10,000 crore for 119 projects across coastal states and UTs under Sagarmala.

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Sagarmala has been a game-changer in unlocking the true potential of India’s maritime sector. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the huge value of maritime sector, that remained neglected for decades, was realised with Sagarmala. As we move towards Sagarmala 2.0, our focus is on bridging critical infrastructure gaps with fresh investments, driving coastal economic growth, and positioning India as a global maritime leader in line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister Modiji’s vision for a Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047.”

Sagarmala 2.0 is a visionary upgrade with a new focus on shipbuilding, repair, breaking, and recycling. Backed by ₹40,000 crore in budgetary support, it aims to catalyse investments worth ₹12 lakh crore over the next decade.

Sagarmala has made India’s ports faster, boosted the coastal economy, revived inland waterways, and improved global logistics rankings. Coastal shipping grew 118% in a decade, Ro-Pax ferries moved over 40 lakh passengers, and inland waterway cargo rose 700%. Nine Indian ports rank in the world’s top 100, with Vizag in the top 20 container ports. Indian ports now outperform many advanced maritime nations on key metrics.

The meet was held under the chairmanship of the Union Minister of MoPSW, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal who was joined by the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Shri Nitin Gadkari; the Vice Chairman, Niti Aayog, Suman Bery. The Chief Minister of Goa, Dr Pramod Sawant as well as ministerial representation from Gujrat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Andaman & Nicobar islands. The meeting witnessed key discussions on the progress and future roadmap of the Sagarmala Programme, aiming to strengthen port-led development and enhance India’s maritime infrastructure.

A major highlight of the meeting was the launch of the Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative (S2I2), a forward-looking program aimed at accelerating innovation and entrepreneurship in the maritime sector. S2I2 aims at empowering startups working in areas such as green shipping, smart ports, maritime logistics, shipbuilding technology, and sustainable coastal development. The initiative will offer funding, mentorship, and industry partnerships to nurture cutting-edge solutions. Through S2I2, the maritime sector will witness a new wave of RISE — Research, Innovation, Startups, and Entrepreneurship — driving economic growth and unlocking transformative technological advancements. Through initiatives like S2I2 and Sagarmala 2.0, India reaffirms its commitment to maritime excellence and sustainable coastal growth.

Over the past 10 years, the Sagarmala Programme has significantly advanced India’s maritime infrastructure. More than 100 port modernisation projects, valued at approximately ₹32,600 crore, have added 230 MTPA to port capacity. Additionally, over 80 port connectivity projects worth around ₹52,000 crore have enhanced 1,500 km of connectivity to ports. Under the Coastal Community Development pillar, fishing harbour projects have positively impacted over 30,000 fishermen. Furthermore, the Ministry has extended financial support to 119 projects worth approximately ₹10,000 crore across coastal States and Union Territories (UT) under the Sagarmala scheme.

Speaking further, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “In line with the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision, our ministry is working to transform India’s maritime sector by 2047 through initiatives such as the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision (MAKV). It aspires to position India among the world’s top five shipbuilding nations by adding 4 million GRT of shipbuilding capacity. It also targets expanding port handling capacity to 10 billion metric tons annually, representing the most significant growth trajectory ever for India’s maritime industry.”

NSAC was constituted in May 2015 for planning and implementation of Port Led Development under Sagarmala project. NSAC is the apex body for policy direction and oversight of the Sagarmala Programme. The 4th NSAC meeting saw review of the implementation status of key projects under the Sagarmala pillars of port modernisation, port industrialisation, port connectivity, coastal shipping and coastal community development. Senior officials from the MoPSW, NITI Aayog, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, and other line Ministries along with senior representatives from the States and UTs participated in the deliberations. The Sagarmala Programme aims to reduce logistics costs for EXIM and domestic trade by enhancing port-led development, improving port efficiency, and promoting coastal economic zones. With the successful conclusion of the 4th NSAC meeting, the Government of India reaffirmed its commitment to maritime excellence, sustainable coastal development, and fostering innovation through targeted interventions such as S2I2 and Sagarmala 2.0.

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GDH/HR

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Four-day Symposium ‘India 2047: Building a Climate Resilient Future’ kick starts in New Delhi

Source: Government of India

Four-day Symposium ‘India 2047: Building a Climate Resilient Future’ kick starts in New Delhi

Important to maintain Growth and Accelerating Welfare while addressing Adaptation Challenges: Vice Chairperson (NITI Aayog), Shri Suman Bery

Need to scale up South-South and Triangular Cooperation to ensure ‘Climate Resilience for All’: MoS (EFCC) Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 6:36PM by PIB Delhi

The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute and The Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability at Harvard University, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India, are organizing a symposium, ‘India 2047: Building a Climate-Resilient Future’. The four-day symposium started today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, beginning with the convening of stakeholders from Union Government, State Governments, scientists, researchers, industry experts, civil society representatives and other relevant stakeholders to deliberate on India’s climate adaptation and resilience priorities as the Nation aspires to be Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The Inaugural Session on Day-1 was presided over by Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog and Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh. Other dignitaries gracing the occasion included Shri Tarun Kapoor, Adviser to the Prime Minister of India, Mr. James H. Stock, Vice Provost of Harvard University and Mr. Tarun Khanna, Director of The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute.

In his address, Shri Suman Bery, emphasized the need for India-centric adaptation strategies. He highlighted the importance of maintaining growth and accelerating welfare while addressing adaptation challenges. He called for flexibility in programme design, particularly in governance dimension, which remains largely unexplored. He stressed the need to empower both the people and the communities. Additionally, he underscored the significance of documenting case studies and fostering intellectual exchange within South Asia.

Stressing on the critical need for stronger adaptation measures across all sectors, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh stated, “India has consistently led climate advocacy for the Global South, ensuring at international climate policies are fair and inclusive. As we move forward, it is crucial to scale up adaptation efforts and ensure that the most vulnerable communities have access to the resources and technologies they need to build resilience”. While India has made significant strides in mitigation through ambitious renewable energy goals and emission intensity reduction commitments, he emphasized that adaptation and resilience remains essential to safeguarding livelihoods, ecosystems, and infrastructure from the impacts of climate change.

The Minister further highlighted the crucial role of climate finance in supporting adaptation initiatives. He stressed that financial resources must be significantly scaled up to meet the needs of vulnerable communities and ensure effective adaptation measures. He underscored the need for innovative financing mechanisms, including blended finance, risk-sharing frameworks, and greater private sector engagement, to complement public finance in driving adaptation efforts. Additionally, the Minister pointed out that adaptation investments must directly benefit those on the frontlines of climate change – farmers, small businesses, and coastal communities. He stated that by strengthening financial instruments such as green bonds, climate-resilient infrastructure funds and concessional financing, India aims to create a sustainable and equitable climate finance ecosystem. “India believes that international climate action must be built on trust, transparency, and equitable growth. We must scale up South-South and Triangular Cooperation to ensure climate resilience for all, accelerate innovation in clean energy transitions, and empower local communities through decentralized governance and ecosystem-based solutions,” the Minister concluded.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Tarun Kapoor emphasized practical climate change solutions that ensure resource flows to individuals and affordable food security. He stressed the importance of delivering forecasts, technology and knowledge where needed. Earlier, in his welcome remarks, Secretary (MoEFCC), Shri Tanmay Kumar, set the tone for the symposium, emphasizing the need for actionable solutions related to adaptation. He said, “This Symposium is not just about identifying challenges – it is about coming together of experts, policy makers, academia, scientists, civil society and communities in developing adaptation strategies that are grounded in research, responsive to local needs, cost effective and scalable for long-term resilience. He highlighted that India’s adaptation strategy is to be built on a foundation of scientific evidence, cross-sectoral integration, and strong institutional frameworks.

In a video address, Mr. Alan M. Garber, President of Harvard University, highlighted the role of The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute as a hub connecting Harvard with India. He introduced The Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability, aimed at developing durable and effective climate solutions. Mr. James H. Stock, Vice Provost of Harvard University, underscored the university’s mission of teaching and research, with interdisciplinary teams working on climate solutions. He emphasized learning from local partners to address climate challenges. Mr. Tarun Khanna, Director of The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute, spoke about the importance of synergizing traditional knowledge and advanced knowledge systems.

Over the period of four days, the symposium will address four key themes that are central to India’s adaptation priorities – climate science and its implications for agriculture and water security, health risks associated with climate change, labor productivity and workforce adaptation, and resilience in the built environment. High-level plenaries, expert roundtables, and technical sessions will explore sector-specific challenges and identify best practices for mainstreaming adaptation across policies and programmes.

The intersection of climate resilience and governance remains a crucial area of focus, with an emphasis on ensuring that adaptation measures are effectively implemented across all levels. Strengthening institutional capacity and fostering coordination among stakeholders will play a pivotal role in translating policies into tangible actions that protect communities, economy, and ecosystems from climate risks. The insights from this symposium could also contribute to the India’s first National Adaptation Plan (NAP) which is under preparation, for which the National Level Stakeholder Workshop was organized by the MoEFCC on 18^th March, 2025. Deliberations will help shape evidence-based policy recommendations that integrate climate adaptation into development planning, safeguarding livelihoods, critical infrastructure, and economic stability.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee on Manufacturing of Heavy Electrical Equipment & Encouragement of Electric Vehicles
Source: Government of India

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 6:29PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, chaired the meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of Ministry of Heavy Industries on 19.03.2025. The meeting was attended by Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries & Steel, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, Members of the Committee, Shri Kamran Rizvi, Secretary, MHI along with Dr. Hanif Qureshi, Additional Secretary, Shri Vijay Mittal, Joint Secretary, MHI, Shri S.J. Sinha, Advisor, NITI Aayog, other senior officials from the ministry.

During the meeting, presentations and discussions were held on ” Manufacturing of Heavy Electrical Equipment” and “Encouragement of Electric Vehicles.” The discussions focused on strategies to accelerate EV adoption, enhance the manufacturing ecosystem, and strengthen the domestic production of heavy electrical equipment to support the growing demand for sustainable transportation and infrastructure.

Addressing the meeting Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy said “Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is making transformative strides in Amrit Kaal, aiming to become a global industrial powerhouse. The “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision positions India as a leading manufacturing and export hub, fostering economic resilience, technological leadership, and industrial self-reliance. Manufacturing contributes 17% to GDP, playing a key role in economic growth, with engineering, capital goods, automotive, and renewables among the high-impact sectors.”

Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy said The Ministry of Heavy Industries is working with the vision statement: “To have a globally competitive, green, and technology-driven heavy industry manufacturing sector, including automotive and capital goods sectors, which propels growth and job creation.” Schemes such as Enhancement of Competitiveness in the Indian Capital Goods Sector (Phase I & II), FAME, PLI for Automotive & Advanced Chemistry Cell, and PM E-DRIVE have been launched with the goal of building a strong domestic manufacturing ecosystem.

During the meeting Union Ministers of State for Heavy Industries & Steel, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma said “A globally competitive manufacturing sector is India’s greatest potential to drive economic growth and job creation. Several key initiatives, such as the National Manufacturing Policy and PLI scheme, have been launched to enhance India’s manufacturing potential.”

Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma said “When it comes to the mobility sector, the Ministry of Heavy Industries has taken deliberate and forward-looking steps to ensure that the transition to electric mobility is seamless, sustainable, and inclusive. A series of progressive initiatives have been instrumental in shaping this transformation, including FAME-II, PM E-DRIVE, PLI schemes for Auto and Advanced Chemistry Cells, the PM e-Bus Sewa-Payment Security Mechanism, and the Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India. Each of these initiatives plays a crucial role in boosting local manufacturing, strengthening charging infrastructure, supporting public transport electrification, and fostering innovation in the EV sector.”

The participants were briefed about-

Manufacturing of Heavy Electrical Equipment:

The Ministry of Heavy Industries continues to play a vital role in strengthening India’s manufacturing ecosystem, particularly in the Heavy Electrical Equipment sector. Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), a key entity under MHI, has been at the forefront of this development, contributing significantly to indigenization and self-reliance in the sector.

Key Highlights:
- The Indian manufacturing sector accounts for 17% of GDP and employs over 27.3 million workers as of FY24.
- Government initiatives such as “Make in India” and the PLI Scheme have catalysed growth in the sector.
- BHEL has developed a comprehensive portfolio of products, including power generation and transmission equipment, along with industrial solutions.
- The company has been actively contributing to the renewable energy sector, particularly in solar and wind energy, in alignment with India’s clean energy goals.
Encouragement of Electric Vehicles:

The Indian automotive industry plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economy, contributing 6.8% of GDP and generating approximately 30 million jobs. The government’s sustained efforts to promote electric mobility have led to remarkable progress, with over 19 lakh EVs registered in 2024, marking a significant increase from 15 lakh in 2023. India’s proactive initiatives are not only accelerating the adoption of EVs domestically but also positioning the country as a key player in the global EV market.

Key Government Initiatives:
- Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) Scheme: Over 7,400 electric buses have been sanctioned under the FAME initiative, significantly enhancing sustainable urban mobility.
- Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: With a total outlay of ₹25,938 crore over five years, the PLI scheme is driving India’s manufacturing competitiveness in the automobile and auto-component sector.
- Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SMEC): This initiative aims to attract investments from leading global EV manufacturers and establish India as a manufacturing hub for electric vehicles.
- PM E-DRIVE Scheme: With an allocation of ₹10,900 crore, this scheme promotes EV adoption while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
The meeting appreciated the government’s commitment to accelerate the transition to clean energy, fostering a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem, as well as positioning India as a global leader in EVs and heavy electrical equipment. The Ministry of Heavy Industries remains dedicated to implementing policies that drive innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.

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TPJ/NJ

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) partners with DigiLocker to reduce unclaimed assets in the Indian securities market and enhances investor protection
Source: Government of India

Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) partners with DigiLocker to reduce unclaimed assets in the Indian securities market and enhances investor protection

DigiLocker now supports demat holdings, mutual fund statements and Consolidated Account Statement (CAS)

Launches nomination facility for legal heirs with SEBI-Regulated by KYC Registration Agencies (KRAs) ensuring smooth asset transition

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 5:34PM by PIB Delhi

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued a circular titled “Harnessing DigiLocker as a Digital Public Infrastructure for Reducing Unclaimed Assets in the Indian Securities Market” to address the issue of unclaimed financial assets. This initiative enables investors to store and access information on their demat and mutual fund holdings through DigiLocker, a key Digital Public Infrastructure, benefiting investors and their families.

Key Highlights of the Initiative
1. Access to Securities Holdings: DigiLocker users can now fetch and store their statement of holdings for shares and mutual fund units from their demat accounts, along with their Consolidated Account Statement (CAS). This expands the existing DigiLocker services, which already include bank account statements, insurance policy certificates, and NPS account statements.
2. Nomination Facility for Seamless Access: Users can appoint Data Access Nominees within the DigiLocker application. In the event of the user’s demise, these nominees will be granted read-only access to the DigiLocker account, ensuring that essential financial information is easily accessible to legal heirs.
3. Automated Notification to Nominees: Upon notification of the user’s demise by KYC Registration Agencies (KRAs) — which are registered with and regulated by SEBI — the DigiLocker system will automatically notify the Data Access Nominees. This access is expected to facilitate the initiation of the transmission process with the relevant financial institutions.
4. Role of KYC Registration Agencies (KRAs): At this stage, KRAs will serve as the primary source for verifying and triggering notifications to Data Access Nominees, ensuring a smooth transition process.
The circular is available on SEBI website at www.sebi.gov.in

SEBI and DigiLocker collaboration

SEBI and DigiLocker are committed to enhancing investor protection through this initiative. By facilitating seamless access to financial records, this mechanism helps minimize unclaimed assets and ensures the identification of assets that might otherwise remain unnoticed.

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Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Terrorism remains an evolving challenge, use of advanced tech necessitates collaborative & action-oriented approach, says Defence Secretary at 14th meeting of ADMM-Plus Experts Working Group on Counter-Terrorism

Source: Government of India

Terrorism remains an evolving challenge, use of advanced tech necessitates collaborative & action-oriented approach, says Defence Secretary at 14th meeting of ADMM-Plus Experts Working Group on Counter-Terrorism

Calls for developing a ‘whole of government and whole of society’ approach to counter radicalisation & violent extremism and enhancing legal & financial frameworks to disrupt terror financing networks

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 5:34PM by PIB Delhi

“India remains steadfast in its zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and believes in an approach that combines robust domestic mechanisms, enhanced intelligence-sharing, and strong regional cooperation,” said Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh during the keynote address at the 14^th meeting of ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) – Plus Experts Working Group (EWG) on Counter-Terrorism in New Delhi on March 19, 2025.

The Defence Secretary stated that terrorism remains a dynamic & evolving challenge, with threats increasingly transcending borders, and the use of advanced technology, cyber tools & unmanned systems by terrorist groups necessitates a cohesive, forward looking and action-oriented approach. He added that the Indo-Pacific region, given its geopolitical and economic significance, is particularly vulnerable to transitional terrorism and violent extremism, which calls for a comprehensive, adaptive, and deeply collaborative response.

Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh emphasised that, through the ADMM-Plus platform, India seeks to build synergy among the defence forces, security agencies, and policy frameworks to address emerging threat effectively. “In the complex, hyper-connected & fast-paced world, social and ecological systems are fragile. It is important to assess this risk to empower the Governments in priority setting and decision making. Terrorism can destabilise governments, undermine civil society, and threaten social & economic development. We have a collective obligation to provide the decision-makers guidance to understand uncertainty and better weigh the impact on decision making,” he said.

The event witnessed the handing over of ADMM-Plus EWG on Counter-Terrorism chairmanship to India and Malaysia from Russia and Myanmar for a three-year cycle. The Defence Secretary voiced the commitment of the new co-chairs towards ensuring that the efforts over this cycle yield practical and meaningful results. “By leveraging our collective expertise, enhancing capacity-building, and fostering deeper trust and cooperation, we can significantly strengthen regional security and counter-terrorism preparedness,” he said.

Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh stated that in the present cycle of EWG on Counter-Terrorism, the focus will be on strengthening regional cooperation and improving interoperability among the Armed Forces through structured joint initiatives. He added that the aim will be to counter the misuse of emerging technologies and addressing threats posed by terrorists through use of AI-driven propaganda, encrypted communications, drone technologies. Strengthening cyber resilience against online radicalisation and recruitment efforts will also be a focus area, he said.

Towards the latter half of the cycle, the Defence Secretary said, work will be carried out together towards capacity building through practical exercises wherein Malaysia will conduct a Table-Top Exercise in 2026, facilitating strategic-level decision making simulations to improve Counter-Terrorism planning and preparedness. In 2027, India will host a Field Training Exercise, aimed at stimulating real-world Counter-Terrorism scenarios, enhancing operational coordination, and testing rapid response mechanisms. He called for developing a whole of government and whole of society approach to counter radicalisation & violent extremism and enhancing legal & financial frameworks to disrupt terror financing networks.

Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh congratulated Malaysia for assuming the chairmanship of ASEAN for the year 2025, extending India’s full support. He acknowledged Malaysia’s effort in effectively steering ASEAN under the current geopolitical scenario with the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’. He added that India is privileged to co-chair this crucial initiative alongside Malaysia, and appreciates the participation of representatives from the ASEAN member states, the Plus nations, the ASEAN Secretariat, and Timor-Leste. “Your presence reaffirms our shared commitment in combating terrorism in all its forms,” he said.

The Defence Secretary termed India’s relationship with ASEAN as a key pillar of its foreign policy, which is at the heart of Act East Policy. He reiterated India’s strong support to a stable and unified ASEAN which serves as an institutional anchor of an important region.

Delegations from 10 ASEAN members (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore and Thailand) and eight dialogue partners (Australia, New Zealand, RoK, Japan, China, USA and Russia) along with Timor Leste and ASEAN Secretariat are participating in the meeting. India is co-chairing the EWG on Counter-Terrorism for the first time.

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VK/Savvy

(Release ID: 2112877) Visitor Counter : 86

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Railways Advances Infrastructure with Dedicated Freight Corridors, Modernization Initiatives, and Enhanced Freight Capacity
Source: Government of India (2)

Ministry of Railways Advances Infrastructure with Dedicated Freight Corridors, Modernization Initiatives, and Enhanced Freight Capacity

Both the Corridors Near Completion: 96.4% of EDFC & WDFC Now Operational

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 5:01PM by PIB Delhi

Ministry of Railways has taken up construction of two Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC) viz. Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (EDFC) from Ludhiana to Sonnagar (1337 Km) and the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) from Jawaharlal Nehru Port Terminal (JNPT) to Dadri (1506 Km). Out of total 2843 Km, 2741 Route Kilometers (96.4%) has been commissioned and operational. The work in balance section has been taken up.

Ministry of Railways has undertaken the work of preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPR) for following three (03) new Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs).

(i) East-Coast Corridor: Kharagpur to Vijayawada

(ii) East-West corridor:

(a) Palghar-Bhusawal-Nagpur-Kharagpur-Dankuni

(b) Rajkharsawan – Kalipahari – Andal

(iii) North-South Sub-corridor: Vijayawada-Nagpur–Itarsi

DPRs of above three corridors are under examination.

None of the above three DFCs have been sanctioned yet. The DFC Projects are highly capital intensive and the final decision regarding the sanction of any DFC Project depends upon many factors such as technical feasibility, financial & economic viability, traffic demand and availability of funds & financial options etc.

Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) Project will have positive impact on transportation and logistics sector as it will enable enhanced movement of Double Stack Container (DSC) trains, higher axle load trains, faster access of northern hinterland by Western Ports and development of new terminals/linkages with industries along the DFC. The Eastern DFC will mostly cater to mineral traffic from Eastern India. These developments will enable reduction in logistic cost.

DFC has contributed to creating additional paths on the conventional network by diverting freight traffic to EDFC and WDFC. Traffic on DFC has increased from 247 average trains per day in 2023-24 to 352 average trains per day in 2024-25 (till Feb.2025). In Feb. 2025, 371 average trains per day were run. As a result, Railways have been able to run additional goods and coaching services over its network with better punctuality. Due to the increase in services, both freight and coaching, Indian Railways’ earnings from train services have gone up.

Modernisation and upgradation of railway infrastructure is a need based and ongoing process subject to operational requirement, technical feasibility, commercial viability, resource availability, etc.

A number of works have been taken up to modernize and upgrade railway infrastructure including rolling stock and signaling system. Some of them are as under:
1. Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (RRSK) has been introduced in 2017-18, for replacement/renewal/upgradation of critical safety assets, with a corpus of ₹1 lakh crore for five years. Currency of the Fund has been extended for another five-year term beyond 2021-22 with GBS support of ₹45,000 Cr. An outlay of ₹ 12800 Cr has been provided in RE 2024-25.
2. Electrical/Electronic Interlocking Systems with centralized operation of points and signals have been provided at 6623 stations up to 28.02.2025.
3. Interlocking of Level Crossing (LC) Gates has been provided at 11089 level Crossing Gates up to 28.02.2025 for enhancing safety at LC Gates.
4. Block Proving Axle Counters (BPACs) systems have been provided on 6126 Block Sections up to 28.02.2025.
5. Automatic block Signaling (ABS) has been provided at 5221 Route Kms up to 28.02.2025.
6. Indian Railway has also gone for implementation of advance technology system ‘Kavach’ as an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system. Kavach is indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system which required safety certification of highest order. Kavach has also been adopted as a National ATP system in July 2020.
7. Crew Video and Voice Recording System (CVVRS) has been provided in Locomotives for post event analysis
8. Head on Generation (HOG) scheme has been implemented in passenger locomotives for feeding electric supply to LHB coaches for train lighting and air conditioning thereby reducing carbon emission, noise level and consumption of fossil fuels.
9. Railways has taken long term plan to acquire new technology 12000 HP electric locomotives and 9000 HP electric locomotives for freight operation. For manufacturing new technology based 9000
High Horse Power Electric Freight Locomotives, a manufacturing unit, having modern World class manufacturing facilities, sanctioned at Dahod.
1. With a view to increase throughput, RDSO has issued technical specification for modern wagons (Modern Open Wagon & Modern Brake Van). In the recent past, multi-purpose and higher carrying capacity wagons have been designed by RDSO. These wagons will help in better utilization of rolling assets and increased throughput per rake.
2. Introduction of IGBT based 3-phase propulsion system with regenerative braking in Electrical Multiple Unit (EMU) trains, Mainline Electrical Multiple Unit (MEMU) trains, Kolkata Metro rakes and Electric Train Sets.
3. Provision of 750 V external power supply at washing/sick lines for maintenance and testing of LHB coaches resulting in significant saving of diesel.
4. In order to modernize and upgrade the track structure, the steps
taken include laying of track structure consisting of 60 kg/90 Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) rails on Pre-stressed Reinforced Concrete (PSC) sleepers with elastic fastening, laying of 130 meter/260 meter longer rails to avoid welding of joints, adoption of better welding technology for rails i.e. Flash Butt Welding, use of thick web switches and Weldable Cast Manganese Steel (WCMS) crossings, using improved fittings, maintenance of track with the help of track machines, Ultrasonic Flaw Detection (USFD) testing of rails, etc.
1. In order to facilitate easy movement of elderly, sick, differently abled passengers and for smooth access to platforms of railway stations and for ease of movement, Lifts and Escalators are provided depending on the relative priority of stations, availability of resources and techno-economic feasibility.
The Average Annual Budget allocation for New Line, Gauge Conversion and Doubling Projects across Indian Railways is given below:

Period

Average Outlay

Increase w.r.t. average allocation of 2009-14

2009-14

₹ 11,527 crore/year

–

2024-25

68,634 crores

Nearly 6 times

To increase the freight handling capacity in IR, ‘Gati Shakti Multi- Modal Cargo Terminal (GCT)’ policy has been launched on 15.12.2021 with the objective of increasing investment from industry in development of additional terminals for handling rail cargo. GCTs are also equipped with facility of mechanized loading / unloading which will, contribute in reduction of transit time and costs for business. So far, 97 GCTs have been commissioned which enable additional freight traffic for Railways. Further In-principle approval (IPAs) for 277 proposals for Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals have already been issued.

Freight loading and revenue during the last five years: –

Year

Freight Loading
(In million Tonnes)

Revenue Earning from Goods

(₹ in Crore)

2019-2024

6952.3

7,02,372.29

This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

*****

Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar

(Release ID: 2112843) Visitor Counter : 15

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: North India’s first Nuclear project coming up in Haryana in a small town called Gorakhpur,

Source: Government of India (2)

North India’s first Nuclear project coming up in Haryana in a small town called Gorakhpur,

Jaitapur Nuclear Plant to Contribute 10% of India’s 100 GW Clean Energy Goal Dr. Jitendra Singh in Lok Sabha

Environmental Concerns Over Jaitapur Addressed, Project on Track

In a significant policy shift, the government is also opening the nuclear energy sector to private participation to accelerate expansion.

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 5:01PM by PIB Delhi

North India’s first Nuclear project is coming up in Haryana in a small town called Gorakhpur.

This was revealed by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh while reaffirming the government’s commitment to the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project, calling it a critical step toward India’s clean energy future.

Responding to concerns raised in the Lok Sabha, Dr. Jitendra Singh clarified that environmental clearance for the project is under renewal and that necessary safeguards are in place to address ecological and safety concerns.

Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that the government remains confident in the safety of the project despite objections from conservation groups and concerns about its location in a seismic zone. He stated that concerns about risks to marine life and local livelihoods have been raised repeatedly, and every time, the government has “tried to allay all these apprehensions that there is no such risk to the marine life, the fisheries, or the people living around, there are ample number of evidence-based studies to prove that.” He further clarified that the environmental clearance had expired in December 2022 due to procedural delays, not because of any new environmental objections. “If there were very serious environmental hazards or any apprehension or evidence, then we would not have got the environment clearance even earlier,” he explained.

Tracing the project’s timeline, the Minister explained that while initial approvals were given in 2008, delays occurred due to shifts in agreements with French stakeholders. With technical agreements now finalized, discussions are ongoing to settle commercial terms with the French side. The Jaitapur plant, once operational, will house six nuclear reactors, each with a capacity of 1,730 MW, totaling 10,380 MW—accounting for 10% of India’s 100 GW nuclear energy target by 2047.

Addressing concerns about nuclear liability, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) framework provides clear safeguards. The primary responsibility rests with the operator, and an insurance pool of ₹1,500 crore has been set up, with additional commitments from the government if required. Furthermore, India has aligned with global compensation mechanisms to ensure financial security in case of an incident.

In a significant policy shift, the government is also opening the nuclear energy sector to private participation to accelerate expansion. Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the upcoming Gorakhpur Nuclear Power Plant in Haryana, marking India’s first nuclear project in North India, as part of this broader vision.

With India aiming for net-zero emissions by 2070, the Jaitapur project is expected to play a crucial role in achieving the country’s clean energy ambitions while strengthening its position as a leader in nuclear technology.

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NKR/PSM

(Release ID: 2112842) Visitor Counter : 33

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Railways Strengthens Crowd Management and Infrastructure to Enhance Passenger Safety Following New Delhi Stampede
Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 4:49PM by PIB Delhi

Each railway station has unique operational challenges due to varying passenger movement patterns during the festivals. For the security arrangements and to streamline passenger flow, station specific plans are made involving all the stakeholders that include Government Railway Police (GRP), Local Police and Local Civil Administration and accordingly action is taken to manage the influx of passengers.

To handle the rush of passengers during Maha Kumbh 2025 at Prayagraj, new infrastructure was created building seven additional platforms, bringing the total to 48 platforms across 9 stations in the Prayagraj area. The approach roads to these stations have also been widened to ensure smooth movement of pilgrims. In total, 17 new permanent Yatri Ashryas were constructed, increasing the holding capacity of these shelters from 21,000 to over 1,10,000. Additionally, 21 new Road Over Bridges (ROBs) and Road Under Bridges (RUBs) have been built, eliminating all level crossings in the region.

A well-coordinated train operation plan was deployed to ensure smooth transportation during the Kumbh. Each station was having its own control room, with a central master control room at Prayagraj Junction. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were developed for train operations and crowd management at stations. To facilitate smooth rush of passenger’s flow, extensive measures have been put in place, including single entry and exit points at stations on major Snan days and unidirectional movement on platforms, foot over bridges (FOBs), and ramps.

Security arrangements for Mahakumbh-2025 were comprehensive, with an emphasis on surveillance and real-time monitoring. A total of about 1200 CCTV cameras, including 116 Face Recognition System (FRS) cameras and Drone cameras were also deployed for surveillance of tracks and crowd management at approach roads to stations.

Additional deployment of 15,000 personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP) and para-military forces were done to ensure security.

Also, additional deployment was made at other sensitive railway stations where high rush of passengers was expected i.e. Varanasi, Ayodhya, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya, Danapur and New Delhi etc.

New Delhi Railway Station has adequate infrastructure. It has 16 nos. of platforms, three foot over bridges (FOBs), access from both Paharganj and Ajmeri gate side, large open spaces in front of the station etc. Large rush of passengers during festivals and events like Kumbh, Chatth, Holi etc. are being handled regularly on New Delhi Railway Station.

Further, redevelopment of New Delhi Railway Station has been sanctioned under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

Amrit Bharat Station Scheme envisages development of stations on a continuous basis with a long-term approach. This scheme involves preparation of Master Plans and their implementation in phases to improve the amenities at the stations like improvement of station access, circulating areas, waiting halls, toilets, lift/escalators as necessary, cleanliness, free Wi-Fi, kiosks for local products through schemes like One Station One Product, better passenger information systems, executive lounges, nominated spaces for business meetings, landscaping etc. keeping in view the necessity at each such station.

The scheme also envisages improvement of building integrating the station with both sides of the city, multimodal integration, amenities for Divyangjans, sustainable and environment friendly solutions, provision of ballast less tracks etc. as per necessity, phasing and feasibility and creation of city centres at the station in the long term.

The plan for redevelopment of New Delhi Railway station, envisages larger new station buildings at both sides, spacious Air Concourse with modern amenities for passenger, Multi Modal Transport Hub connecting different mode of transportation and providing parking and other facilities. The redeveloped station envisages a network of surface and elevated roads to provide access at two levels and to decongest surrounding areas of New Delhi railway station. Adequate security measures like CCTV cameras, access control, movement regulation and waiting space etc are also envisaged.

The details of allocation of funds for development and maintenance of stations are maintained Zonal Railway-wise and not footfall-wise or Work-wise or Station-wise. Passenger amenities are generally funded under Plan Head-53 ‘Customer Amenities’. An allocation of ₹12,994 Crores (Revised Estimate) has been made for the financial year 2024-25 under Plan Head-53. New Delhi railway station in Delhi falls under Northern Railway Zone and the fund allocation to Northern Railway for development and maintenance of stations under Plan Head-53 ‘Customer Amenities’ for the year (RE 2024-25) is ₹ 1531.24 Cr.

To handle heavy rush of passengers at stations, following decisions have been taken by railways –

Permanent holding areas at 60 stations:
1. During the festival season of 2024, holding areas were created outside stations. These waiting areas were able to hold large crowds at Surat Udhna, Patna and New Delhi. Passengers were allowed only when the train came to the platform.
2. Similar arrangements were made during Mahakumbh at nine stations of Prayag area.
3. Based on the experience of these stations, it has been decided to create permanent waiting areas outside stations at 60 stations across the country which periodically face heavy crowds.
4. Pilot projects have started at New Delhi, Anand Vihar, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Ghaziabad stations.
5. With this concept, the sudden crowd will be contained within the waiting area. Passengers will be allowed to go to platforms only when the trains arrive at the platform. This will decongest the stations.
Access control:
1. Complete access control will be initiated at the 60 stations.
2. Passengers with confirmed reserve tickets will be given direct access to the platforms.
3. Passengers without a ticket or with a waiting list ticket will wait in the outside waiting area.
4. All unauthorised entry points will be sealed.
Wider foot-over-bridges (FOB):
1. Two new designs of 12 metre wide (40 feet) and 6 metre wide (20 feet) standard FOB have been developed. These wide FOBs with ramps were very effective in crowd management during Mahakumbh. These new standard wide FOBs will be installed in all the stations.
Cameras:
1. Cameras helped crowd management in a big way during Mahakumbh. A large number of cameras will be installed in all stations and adjoining areas for close monitoring.
War rooms:
1. War rooms at large stations will be developed. Officers of all departments will work in the war room during crowd situations.
New generation communication equipment:
1. Latest design digital communication equipment like walkie-talkies, announcement systems, calling systems will be installed on all heavy crowd stations.
New design ID card:
1. All staff and service persons will be given a new design ID card so that only authorised persons can enter the station.
New design uniform for staff:
1. All staff members will be given new design uniforms so that they can be easily identified during a crisis situation.
Upgradation of station director post:
1. All major stations will have a senior officer as station director. All other departments will report to the station director.
2. Station director will get financial empowerment so that he can take on-the-spot decisions for improving the station.
Sale of tickets as per capacity:
1. Station Director will be empowered to control the sale of tickets as per capacity of the station and the available trains.
CCTV cameras are installed at New Delhi railway station, which is being monitored round the clock. A high-level inquiry committee has been constituted for comprehensive investigation into the incident at New Delhi railway station. The incident of the stampede at New Delhi railway station occurred on 15.02.2025, in which 18 people died and 15 were injured.

This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

*****

Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar

(Release ID: 2112830) Visitor Counter : 12

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Two Days National Seminar cum Exhibition on Organic Farming

Source: Government of India

Two Days National Seminar cum Exhibition on Organic Farming

Safe Food for Healthy Life

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

A “Two Days National Seminar cum Exhibition on Organic Farming” was organized by the National Centre for Organic & Natural Farming (NCONF), Ghaziabad, on 18-19 March 2025 at Ghaziabad. The program and exhibition were inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Sh. K.M.S. Khalsa, Director (Finance) – Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, along with Dr. Gagnesh Sharma, Director, NCONF, and Dr. A.K. Yadav, Advisor, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, in the presence of Dr. Bharat Bhushan Tyagi, Padmashree, Sh. Gopal Bhai Sutariya from Bansi Gir Gaushala, Ahmedabad and officers from NCONF and RCONFs.

The Chief Guest, Sh. K.M.S. Khalsa, in his deliberation, emphasized the significance of organic farming and its growing importance in today’s world. He assured support for the promotion and implementation of proposals related to Organic and Natural Farming will be considered on priority. On this instance “Manual of Organic Farming” and “Souvenir” were released.

Dr. Gagnesh Sharma, Director of NCONF, delivered the keynote address. He outlined the current status and achievements of NCONF in the domain of Organic and Natural Farming. Dr. Sharma also discussed the importance of certification, organic input quality management, and highlighted the potential opportunities for marketing organic and natural products to help in boosting the income of farmer.

Dr. A.K. Yadav shared insights on the status of organic farming in India and motivated farmers and stakeholders to participate in the production and processing of organic produce for both domestic and international markets. He stated, it would be helpful to strengthen farmers as well as nation’s economy.

Padmashree Dr. Bharat Bhushan Tyagi spoke about the promotion of organic farming at the village as a cluster based approach. He emphasized moving beyond a cluster-based approach to improve the adaptability of organic farming and bring more land under organic certification.

Sh. Gopal Bhai Sutariya focused on the importance of cow-based natural farming and its potential. He introduced the “Gaukripa Krishi” model, explaining how farmers can adopt natural and organic farming practices. He assured that this model would be available to all stakeholders free of cost.

The two-day conference featured four sessions altogether eighteen deliberations covering key objectives related to organic farming. These sessions brought together policymakers, researchers, academia, progressive farmers, innovators, entrepreneurs, industries, and other stakeholders. They shared knowledge and experiences on enhancing the role of Farmers’ Producer Organizations (FPOs) and processor groups in sustainable agri-food systems. Discussions also included the use of innovative farmer-friendly technologies, certification, processing, and marketing of organic produce. On this occasion champion farmers across the country were felicitated. On this occasion 23 exhibitors across the country showcased their achievements and activities towards the promotion and creating awareness Organic and Natural Farming.

Officers from Regional Centres of Organic & Natural Farming (RCONFs) in Ghaziabad, Nagpur, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, and Imphal also participated in the event. More than 200 participants, including champion farmers from across the country, attended the program.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the valuable contributions of all speakers and participants.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the valuable contributions of all speakers and participants.

*****

MG/ KSR

(Release ID: 2112796) Visitor Counter : 38

Read this release in: Hindi

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Several steps taken to enhance implementation of NMDFC schemes across the nation
Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 19 MAR 2025 5:05PM by PIB Delhi

The disbursement target of National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC) for the financial year 2024-25 is Rs. 850.00 crore and NMDFC has disbursed Rs. 752.23 crore to over 1,74,148 beneficiaries till 10^th March 2025.

NMDFC has delegated the authority to its State Channelizing Agencies (SCAs) to sanction, disburse & recover loan from beneficiaries. The beneficiaries are selected as per following eligibility criteria for release of concessional credit:
1. Person should belong to notified National Minority viz., Buddhists, Christians, Jains, Muslims, Parsis and Sikhs as per National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992.
2. Person having annual family income of upto Rs. 3.00 lakhs under Credit Line 1 and upto Rs. 8.00 lakhs under Credit Line 2.
The applicants are required to submit the necessary documents for meeting the above eligibility criteria. To ensure that credit support reaches genuine and deserving minority beneficiaries, the SCAs have adopted a multi-level screening mechanism for document verification, background checks & site inspections before sanction of loan. Further, the sanctioned amount is released through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the KYC authenticated beneficiary account.

In order to enhance the implementation of NMDFC schemes across the nation, following steps have been taken by NMDFC:
1. Enhancing the annual family income limit under Credit Line 1 from Rs. 98,000/- in rural areas & Rs. 1,20,000/- in urban areas to Rs. 3.00 lakh per annum in both rural & urban areas.
2. Introduction of new Annual Family Income eligibility criterion of up to Rs.8.00 lakh per annum for greater coverage of persons from the targeted minority communities.
3. Quantum of loan under Term Loan scheme increased from Rs.10.00 lakh to Rs.30.00 lakh while under Micro Finance scheme, it has been increased from Rs.50,000/- to Rs.1.50 lakh per Self Help Group member. Under Education Loan scheme, the quantum of loan has been increased from Rs.5.00 lakh to Rs.20.00 lakh for domestic courses & from Rs.10.00 lakh to Rs.30.00 lakh for courses abroad.
4. Introduction of Virasat Scheme to meet the credit requirement of Artisans belonging to target group.
5. Self-Declaration/Self Certification/Self Attestation of documents is introduced in case of Religion Certificate, Family Income, Residence Proof, Mark Sheet, etc.
6. Transfer of loan directly in Bank Account of Beneficiary through NEFT/RTGS.
7. Insurance of beneficiary and their assets to safeguard against any untoward incident.
8. Signing of MoU with Canara Bank, Union Bank of India, Indian Bank & Punjab Gramin Bank to increase the outreach of NMDFC schemes in the States/UTs where SCAs are non-functional.
9. NMDFC has also developed MILAN Software to streamline and digitize the loan and accounting processes between applicants, State Channelizing Agencies (SCAs) and NMDFC.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Minority Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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SS/ISA

(Release ID: 2112851) Visitor Counter : 13

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE meets Governor of Guangdong Province (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

CE meets Governor of Guangdong Province (with photo)
Mr Lee welcomed Mr Wang and his delegation to Hong Kong. Mr Lee said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government attaches importance to the work on Hong Kong’s integration into the overall national development. Shortly upon the establishment of the current-term Government, the Steering Group on Integration into National Development was set up to take forward and provide a steer from the top level on the work of serving the development of the GBA. He said that Guangdong and Hong Kong are adjacent to each other and interdependent, and have shared an all-round, deep and multidisciplinary co-operative relationship for many years. With the strong support from the Central Authorities, Guangdong and Hong Kong have worked with one mind to promote co-operation in finance, innovation and technology, logistics, healthcare and other fields, and have achieved fruitful results.

Mr Lee highlighted that the People’s Government of Guangdong Province issued offshore Renminbi (RMB) local government bonds in Hong Kong for the first time in September last year. This initiative not only further strengthened Hong Kong’s position as a global offshore RMB business hub, but also promoted the GBA in better serving as the driving force for high-quality development. Welcoming more Mainland local governments to issue offshore RMB bonds and green bonds in Hong Kong, Mr Lee noted that Hong Kong will continue to leverage its advantages in connecting with the international financial system and providing professional services, contributing to the country’s promotion of high-level financial opening up.

Mr Lee said that the HKSAR Government will continue to actively maintain close co-operation with the People’s Government of Guangdong Province, with a view to enhancing the innovation capabilities and influence of the GBA as a region with economic development advantages, as well as achieving complementarity and collaborative development among Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao. It also aims to align with national development strategies and leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages of being backed by the motherland and connected to the world under the “one country, two systems” principle to deepen international exchanges and co-operation, and better integrate into the overall national development.
Issued at HKT 18:48

NNNN

Categories24-7, Asia Pacific, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Government special administrative region, MIL OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Continued Temporary Housing Assistance Available for Those Who Still Require Safe Housing

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: FEMA Continued Temporary Housing Assistance Available for Those Who Still Require Safe Housing

FEMA Continued Temporary Housing Assistance Available for Those Who Still Require Safe Housing

TALLAHASSEE, Fla

– Floridians affected by Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby who have received rental assistance from FEMA and require further rental assistance while they work towards their permanent housing goals should stay in touch with FEMA

Continued Temporary Rental Assistance may be available for those who qualify

Rental Assistance is available as an initial temporary one to two months grant for homeowners and renters to pay for somewhere to live while they repair or rebuild their home

After the first one to two months, survivors can apply for Continued Temporary Rental Assistance based on three months of their actual monthly costs for rent and utilities or the Fair Market Rent, whichever is less for up to 18 months

To be eligible to apply for Continued Rental Assistance, survivors must meet the following conditions: Be awarded initial Rental Assistance and show they used this money to pay for temporary housing,Are unable to return to their pre-disaster residence because it is not safe to live in or is no longer available to them, due to the disaster

Demonstrate a continued disaster-caused financial need

Show that they have established a permanent housing plan and continue to show that they are working toward meeting their goals

If you were initially approved for Rental Assistance, an application for Continued Temporary Housing Assistance may be mailed to you 15 days after the grant is approved

If you do not receive one, please contact FEMA by calling800-621-3362

Return the form to FEMA by either:Uploading it to your FEMA Disaster Assistance account, available online at DisasterAssistance

gov

Mailing the completed form to: FEMA, P

O

Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

Faxing it to 800-827-8112

# # #FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disaster

Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam

For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

gov, on Instagram @Ready

gov or on the Ready Facebook page

lindsay

tozer
Wed, 03/19/2025 – 19:52

MIL OSI USA News –

March 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DR-4861-WV NR-012 A Second Disaster Recovery Center in McDowell County WV Opening Thursday; Over $10 Million in FEMA Assistance Has Been Approved

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: DR-4861-WV NR-012 A Second Disaster Recovery Center in McDowell County WV Opening Thursday; Over $10 Million in FEMA Assistance Has Been Approved

DR-4861-WV NR-012 A Second Disaster Recovery Center in McDowell County WV Opening Thursday; Over $10 Million in FEMA Assistance Has Been Approved

News releaseA Second Disaster Recovery Center in McDowell County, W

Va

Opening Thursday March 20; Over $10 Million in FEMA Assistance Has Been ApprovedCHARLESTON, W

Va

– A second Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be opening in McDowell County at the Board of Education Building at 8:00 a

m

on Thursday March 20, 2025

The opening of this additional DRC coincides with the $10 million milestone in approved FEMA assistance

FEMA encourages all residents of the impacted counties to register for assistance, including homeowners and renters

The center is located at: McDowell County (Welch) Disaster Recovery CenterBoard of Education Building900 Mount View High School RoadWelch, WV 24801 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

m

to 6 p

m

Saturday March 22: 9 a

m

to 1 p

m

, weather dependentSaturday, March 29: 9 a

m

to 1 p

m

, weather dependent Closed on Sundays The DRCs located in the table below remain open

DRCs are open to all, including survivors with mobility issues, impaired vision, and those who are who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Residents of the designated counties can visit any open DRC for assistance

Mercer County Disaster Recovery CenterMcDowell County Disaster (Bradshaw) Recovery Center Lifeline Princeton Church of God250 Oakvale Road Princeton, WV 24740 Hours of operation:Monday to Friday: 9 a

m

– 5 p

m

Saturdays: 10 a

m

– 2 p

m

Closed Sundays Closed March 12, March 22, April 19Bradshaw Town Hall10002 Marshall HwyBradshaw, WV 24817 Hours of operation:Monday to Saturday: 8 a

m

to 6 p

m

Closed SundaysMingo County Disaster Recovery CenterWyoming County Disaster Recovery CenterWilliamson Campus1601 Armory DriveWilliamson, WV 25661 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday, 8 a

m

to 6 p

m

Saturdays: 9 a

m

to 3 p

m

Closed on SundaysWyoming Court House24 Main AvePineville, WV 24874 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

m

to 6 p

m

Saturdays: 9 a

m

to 3 p

m

Closed on Sundays Residents in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Wayne, and Wyoming counties who were impacted by the winter flooding between February 15 – 18, 2025 can visit a DRC to apply for assistance, ask questions about their application, speak with representatives from other agencies, including the Small Business Administration, submit receipts for eligible cleanup and repair costs, and more

Renters may also have eligible costs and should apply for FEMA assistance

FEMA and SBA staff survey damages in the impacted areas of WV following the February 15-18, 2025 winter flooding

(FEMA)As a reminder, FEMA disaster assistance comes in the form of grants, which do not need to be repaid, accepting FEMA funds will not affect eligibility for Social Security – including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, or other federal benefit programs

FEMA assistance does not need to be repaid

Residents should file insurance claims as soon as possible, in addition to submitting an application for FEMA assistance

By law, FEMA cannot cover expenses that have already been covered by other sources like insurance, crowdfunding, local or state programs, donations, or financial assistance from voluntary agencies

FEMA remains dedicated to assisting the residents of West Virginia and encourages everyone in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Wayne, and Wyoming counties who were impacted by the winter flooding between February 15 – 18, 2025 to connect with FEMA to identify next steps in your recovery

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd

wv

gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www

fema

gov/disaster/4861, and www

facebook

com/FEMA

### FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters

Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam

For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

gov, on Instagram @Ready

gov or on the Ready Facebook page

kimberly

fuller
Wed, 03/19/2025 – 17:24

MIL OSI USA News –

March 20, 2025

Period	Average Outlay	Increase w.r.t. average allocation of 2009-14
2009-14	₹ 11,527 crore/year	–
2024-25	68,634 crores	Nearly 6 times

Category: Economy

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

Exclusion of Women from Green, Blue Economies

Need to Address Structural Inequalities

Hopes Slashed by Anti-Rights Actors

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