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Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI: HUMBL, Inc. Secures $500,000 in Strategic Investment From Quail Hollow Capital, LLC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    San Diego, CA, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HUMBL, Inc. (OTC: HMBL) (the “Company”) is pleased to announce a strategic investment from Quail Hollow Capital, LLC, marking a key step in the Company’s efforts to strengthen its financial position and drive future growth.

    Quail Hollow Capital has invested $500,000 in the Company through the purchase of a Convertible Promissory Note, providing capital to support key business initiatives and operations. 

    This investment reflects strong confidence in the Company’s strategic direction as it continues to expand its holding company activities in the North American and Latin American markets.

    “Quail Hollow’s investment will support critical public company operating costs, including audits, accounting, legal, and compliance,” said Thiago Moura, CEO of HUMBL, Inc. “Additionally, this capital allows for strategic growth and sales expansion between our North American and Latin American operations.”

    The Company has significantly lowered its burn rate, reduced debt and remains highly focused on driving revenues, achieving profitability, and uplisting to a senior exchange. The Company is committed to responsible financial management and long-term shareholder value creation.

    About HUMBL, Inc.

    HUMBL, Inc. has transformed into a strategic holding company, operating with a business model centered on high-value joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions, and sales distribution agreements. 

    The company is focused on bridging North American and Latin American markets, leveraging its access to physical assets and distribution networks to create immediate economic opportunities.

    Following the divestiture of its technology assets, HUMBL, Inc. has shifted to a shareholder value-driven approach under the leadership of CEO Thiago Moura, principal of Ybyra Capital, a Brazilian holding company with diversified investments in real estate, commodities and mining. 

    By leveraging Ybyra Capital’s established presence in Latin America, HUMBL, Inc. is uniquely positioned to provide strategic partners with direct market access and growth opportunities.

    About Quail Hollow Capital, LLC

    Quail Hollow Capital is a Texas-based investment firm specializing in strategic growth investments across various industries. The firm partners with high-potential companies to provide capital and expertise that drive long-term value creation.

    HUMBL, Inc. (OTC: HMBL)
    Investor Relations: ir@humbl.com
    Media Contact: media@humbl.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Waldencast Reports Q4 2024 and Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Q4 Net Revenue of $72.1 million, 29.4% Comparable Net Revenue Growth and $11.2 million of Adjusted EBITDA, doubling from Q4 2023

    FY 2024 Net Revenue of $273.9 million, 27.5% Comparable Net Revenue Growth and $40.3 million of Adjusted EBITDA

    Obagi Medical is the fastest growing professional skincare brand1 in the US in 2024

    Milk Makeup expands its distribution to Ulta Beauty

    Waldencast secures a new $205 million credit facility, replacing the current one, enhancing flexibility and extending debt maturity

    LONDON, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Waldencast plc (NASDAQ: WALD) (“Waldencast” or the “Company”), a global multi-brand beauty and wellness platform, today reported operating results for the three months ended December 31, 2024 (“Q4 2024”) and the year ended December 31, 2024 (the “Year Ended 2024”) on Form 6-K to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), which are also available on our investor relations site at http://ir.waldencast.com/.

    Michel Brousset, Waldencast Founder and CEO, said: “We closed a transformative year for the Group, achieving outstanding growth, expanding our brands’ communities, and making significant progress on our strategic priorities. Our business model is driven by a powerful flywheel effect of growth and profitability. This begins with the unique strength of our brands, which is amplified by our ability to enhance operational efficiency. As a result, we can effectively increase investments in sales and marketing to drive profitable growth. In 2024, we achieved a 27.5% increase in Comparable Net Revenue and a 65.1% rise in Adjusted EBITDA, demonstrating our proven ability to expand gross margins and optimize our cost base as we grow.”

    “Our proven ability to innovate significantly contributed to our brands’ growth. This year, Milk Makeup introduced several exciting new products, including the viral and award-winning Cooling Water Jelly Tint Blush + Lip Stain. Obagi Medical also launched a range of successful innovations aimed at both consumers and the professional skincare medical community, most notably the ELASTIderm Lift Up & Sculpt Facial Moisturizer and Elastiderm Advanced Filler Concentrate.”

    “Building on our momentum, we are excited to announce that Milk Makeup will launch in over 600 Ulta Beauty locations this spring, further highlighting the growing demand for our cult-favorite brand. Additionally, Obagi Medical expanded the Suzan Obagi MD® collection with groundbreaking new products, including the Super Antioxidant Serum and the Moisture Restore Hydration Replenishing Cream.”

    ____________________________________

    1 Among the top 10 brands. Kline & Company. (2024). 2024 Kline Professional Skincare: United States market analysis and opportunities.

    “Overall, we are excited about the year ahead and expect another year of significant milestones toward achieving our ambition to build a global best-in-class beauty and wellness multi-brand platform by creating, acquiring, accelerating, and scaling the next generation of high-growth, purpose-driven brands,” concluded Mr. Brousset.

    Q4 2024 Results Overview

    Please refer to the definitions and reconciliations set out further in this release with respect to certain adjusted non-GAAP measures discussed below which are included to provide an easier understanding of the underlying performance of the business, but should not be seen as a substitute for the U.S. GAAP numbers presented in this release.

    For the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the three months ended December 31, 2023:

    Net Revenue increased 30.8% to $72.1 million, a 29.4% increase in Comparable Net Revenue Growth that was attributable to Milk Makeup channel expansion, Obagi Medical accelerated growth in the Physician Dispense channel, and continued success in Obagi Medical e-commerce channels.

    Gross Profit was $49.4 million. Adjusted Gross Profit was $52.6 million, or 73.0% of net revenue, compared to $40.3 million in Q4 2023.

    Net Loss improved from $32.7 million in Q4 2023 to $22.6 million in Q4 2024, driven by operational growth and a reduction in non-recurring costs associated with the restatement and SEC investigation.

    Adjusted EBITDA doubled to $11.2 million (15.5% of net revenue), reflecting a 530 basis point expansion from Q4 2023. This growth was driven by strong top-line performance and operational leverage, as both Obagi Medical and Milk Makeup continued to scale and reinvest in business drivers while maintaining G&A discipline.

    Liquidity: The business maintained strong cash conversion in Q4 2024, driven by effective working capital management and minimal capital expenditure thanks to our asset-light business model. While the Company continues to incur significant non-recurring legal and advisory costs, the level of expenditures has been gradually reducing. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $14.8 million in cash and cash equivalents and $154.2 million of Net Debt.

    New Credit Facility: Waldencast has entered into a new $205 million five-year credit facility, comprising a $175 million Term Loan and a $30 million RCF, that replaces its existing facility. This agreement supports the Company’s strategic priorities by enhancing financial flexibility and extending its debt maturity profile well ahead of the current facilities expiration in July 2026.

    Outstanding Shares: As of February 28, 2025, we had 122,720,911 ordinary shares outstanding, consisting of 112,054,383 Class A shares and 10,666,528 Class B shares. As of December 31, 2024, we had 122,692,968 ordinary shares outstanding, consisting of 112,026,440 Class A shares and 10,666,528 Class B shares.

    (In $ millions, except for percentages)   Q4 2024   % Sales   % Growth   % Comparable
    Net Revenue
    Growth    		     Q4 2023   % Sales
    Waldencast                          
    Net Revenue   72.1   100.0%   30.8%   29.4%     55.1   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   52.6   73.0%   30.7%         40.3   73.1%
    Adjusted EBITDA   11.2   15.5%   99.3%         5.6   10.2%
                               
    Obagi Medical                          
    Net Revenue   42.2   100.0%   30.0%   27.7%     32.5   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   33.2   78.7%   28.0%         26.0   80.0%
    Adjusted EBITDA   9.8   23.3%   23.7%         8.0   24.5%
                               
    Milk Makeup                          
    Net Revenue   29.9   100.0%   31.9%         22.6   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   19.4   64.9%   35.6%         14.3   63.1%
    Adjusted EBITDA   4.8   16.1%   248.0%         1.4   6.1%
     

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Brand Highlights:

    Obagi Medical:

    • Net Revenue reached $42.2 million, from $32.5 million in Q4 2023 with Comparable Net Revenue Growth of 27.7%.
    • Obagi Medical’s strong net revenue growth continued to be driven by increased brand awareness, stronger selling and marketing investments, and continued innovation. The brand continued expanding its international footprint and growing e-commerce sales through its direct website and the move to a first party model with its main e-commerce distributor, implemented in late 2023, with benefits tapering off by Q1 2025.
    • Notably, Obagi Medical was the fastest-growing professional skin care brand among the top 10 in the US in 20241. This historic achievement underscores the strength of our enhanced go-to-market strategy which successfully balances growth in the Physician Dispense channel, our historic stronghold, with the acceleration of our digital channels.
    • Adjusted Gross Margin of 78.7% contracted 130 basis points from Q4 2023 due to a higher weight of inventory liquidations.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $9.8 million, an increase of 23.7% from Q4 2023 with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 23.3%, a decline of 120 basis points from Q4 2023 reflecting the brands continued strategic investment in marketing to drive top-line growth and improved leverage of fixed costs.

    Milk Makeup:

    • Net Revenue reached $29.9 million, up 31.9% from $22.6 million in Q4 2023.
    • Milk Makeup’s Q4 2024 growth reflected the initial shipments to Ulta Beauty in support of the brand’s spring 2025 launch along with increased demand driven by our growing awareness, the continued delivery of sought-after innovation, and international expansion.
    • Adjusted Gross Margin increased by 180 basis points versus Q4 2023, primarily reflecting the positive impact of channel and product mix, as well as margin accretive innovation.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $4.8 million an increase of $3.4 million from Adjusted EBITDA of $1.4 million in Q4 2023. Adjusted EBITDA Margin improved 1,000 basis points to 16.1% versus 6.1% in Q4 2023 as robust sales growth and gross margin expansion drove significant operational leverage despite increased brand investment.

    Year Ended 2024 Results Overview

    For the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023:

    Net Revenue was $273.9 million, a 27.5% increase in Comparable Net Revenue Growth.

    Gross Profit was $191.7 million. Adjusted Gross Profit was $203.6 million, or 74.3% of net revenue, a margin improvement of 530 basis points versus 2023.

    Net Loss was $48.6 million, down from $106.0 million in the Year Ended 2023. The improvement was primarily driven by strong operational growth in the business, a fair value adjustment of the warrants, and reduced non-recurring costs.

    Adjusted EBITDA was $40.3 million, an Adjusted EBITDA Margin of 14.7%, compared to 11.2% in the Year Ended 2023.

    Fiscal 2025 Outlook:

    We expect to deliver mid-teens Net Revenue growth and further expansion of Adjusted EBITDA Margin into the mid-to-high teens.

    Net revenue growth is expected to accelerate throughout the year, starting with relatively flat growth in Q1 due to the anniversary of the highly successful Milk Makeup “Jellies” launch from Q1 2024, as well as inventory adjustment in some of our retail partners.

    Growth is expected to accelerate progressively in the following quarters, driven by our innovation pipeline and the continued expansion of our distribution footprint in the U.S. and internationally, including the launch of Milk Makeup at Ulta Beauty in March 2025.

    Year Ended 2024 Highlights

    (In $ millions, except for percentages)   Year
    Ended
    2024    		   % Sales   % Growth   % Comparable
    Net Revenue
    Growth    		     Year
    Ended
    2023    		   % Sales
    Waldencast                          
    Net Revenue   273.9   100.0%   25.5%   27.5%     218.1   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   203.6   74.3%   35.3%         150.4   69.0%
    Adjusted EBITDA   40.3   14.7%   65.1%         24.4   11.2%
                               
    Obagi Medical                          
    Net Revenue   149.3   100.0%   26.9%   30.7%     117.7   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   118.6   79.4%   41.6%         83.7   71.2%
    Adjusted EBITDA   30.5   20.4%   46.4%         20.8   17.7%
                               
    Milk Makeup                          
    Net Revenue   124.6   100.0%   24.0%         100.5   100.0%
    Adjusted Gross Profit   85.0   68.2%   27.4%         66.7   66.4%
    Adjusted EBITDA   29.1   23.3%   58.0%         18.4   18.3%
     

    Conference Call and Webcast Information

    Waldencast will host a conference call to discuss its year-end and fourth quarter results on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 8:30 AM EDT for the period ended December 31, 2024. Those interested in participating in the conference call are invited to dial (877) 704-4453. International callers may dial (201) 389-0920. A live webcast of the conference call will include a slide presentation and will be available online at https://ir.waldencast.com/. A replay of the webcast will remain available on the website until our next conference call. The information accessible on, or through, our website is not incorporated by reference into this release.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In addition to the financial measures presented in this release in accordance with U.S. GAAP, Waldencast separately reports financial results on the basis of the measures set out and defined below which are non-GAAP financial measures. Waldencast believes the non-GAAP measures used in this release provide useful information to management and investors regarding certain financial and business trends relating to its financial condition and results of operations. Waldencast believes that the use of these non-GAAP financial measures provides an additional tool for investors to use in evaluating ongoing operating results and trends. These non-GAAP measures also provide perspective on how Waldencast’s management evaluates and monitors the performance of the business.

    There are limitations to non-GAAP financial measures because they exclude charges and credits that are required to be included in GAAP financial presentation. The items excluded from GAAP financial measures such as net income/loss to arrive at non-GAAP financial measures are significant components for understanding and assessing our financial performance. Non-GAAP financial measures should be considered together with, and not alternatives to, financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP.

    Please refer to definitions set out in the release and the tables included in this release for a reconciliation of these metrics to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.

    Comparable Net Revenue is defined as Net Revenue excluding sales related to the former Obagi Medical China business (the “Obagi Medical China Business”), which was not acquired by Waldencast at the time of the business combination with Obagi Medical and Milk Makeup (the “Business Combination”) as was presented in previous earnings releases. The sales to the Obagi Medical China Business have a below market sales price for a defined period of time after the acquisition of Obagi Medical pursuant to the Business Combination. As a result of the Business Combination, a below market contract liability was recognized and is amortized based on sales. This adjustment is shown in the Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Gross Profit reconciliations. Management of the Company believes that this non-GAAP measure provides perspective on how Waldencast’s management evaluates and monitors the performance of the business. See reconciliation to U.S. GAAP Net Revenue in the Appendix.

    Comparable Net Revenue Growth is defined as the growth in Comparable Net Revenue period over period expressed as a percentage.

    Adjusted Gross Profit is defined as GAAP gross profit excluding the impact of inventory fair value adjustments, amortization of the supply agreement and formulation intangible assets, discontinued product write-off, and the amortization of the fair value of the related party liability from the Obagi Medical China Business. The Adjusted Gross Profit reconciliation by Segment for each period is included in the Appendix.

    Adjusted Gross Margin is defined as Adjusted Gross Profit divided by GAAP Net Revenue.

    Adjusted EBITDA is defined as GAAP net income (loss) before interest income or expense, income tax (benefit) expense, depreciation and amortization, and further adjusted for the items as described in the reconciliation below. We believe this information will be useful for investors to facilitate comparisons of our operating performance and better identify trends in our business. Adjusted EBITDA excludes certain expenses that are required to be presented in accordance with GAAP because management believes they are non-core to our regular business. These include non-cash expenses, such as depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, inventory fair value adjustments, the amortization and release of fair value of the related party liability to the Obagi Medical China Business, change in fair value of financial instruments, loss on impairment of goodwill and leases, and foreign currency translation loss (gain). In addition, adjustments include expenses that are not related to our underlying business performance including (1) legal, advisory and consultant fees related to the financial restatement of previously issued financial statements and associated regulatory investigation, and the Business Combination; (2) costs to recover and the value of the inventory recovered from the acquisition of the SA distributor, and the associated discontinued products; and (3) other non-recurring costs, primarily legal settlement costs and restructuring costs. The Adjusted EBITDA by Segment for each period is included in the Appendix.

    Adjusted EBITDA Margin is defined as Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net revenue. The Adjusted EBITDA Margin reconciliation by Segment for each period is included in the Appendix.

    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three
    Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Three
    Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Loss   $ (22,597 )   $ (32,731 )   $ (48,648 )   $ (105,968 )
    Adjusted For:                
    Depreciation and amortization     15,013       14,863       60,015       60,498  
    Interest expense, net     4,088       4,276       17,155       18,888  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     4,113       (976 )     110       (6,975 )
    Stock-based compensation expense     2,993       1,677       9,392       9,235  
    Legal and advisory non-recurring costs(1)     3,029       12,949       21,493       32,783  
    Change in fair value of warrants and interest rate collar     443       2,473       (23,679 )     10,443  
    Amortization and release of related party liability(2)     (4,169 )     —       (5,678 )     (4,058 )
    Loss on impairment of goodwill     5,031       —       5,031       —  
    Other costs(3)     3,241       3,083       5,093       9,549  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 11,185     $ 5,613     $ 40,284     $ 24,395  
    Net Revenue   $ 72,083     $ 55,117     $ 273,868     $ 218,138  
    Net Loss % of Net Revenue     (31.3 )%     (59.4 )%     (17.8 )%     (48.6 )%
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin     15.5 %     10.2 %     14.7 %     11.2 %
     
    (1) Includes mainly legal, advisory and consultant fees related to the financial restatement 2020-2022 periods and associated regulatory investigation, and the Business Combination.
    (2) Relates to the fair value of the related party liability for the unfavorable discount to the Obagi Medical China Business as part of the Business Combination.
    (3) Other costs include legal settlements, foreign currency translation losses, product discontinuation costs related to advanced purchases for the SA Distributor, the write-down and subsequent recovery of inventory from the SA Distributor, restructuring costs, amortization of the fair value step-up as a result of the business combination, lease impairments, restructuring and contract termination fees.
       

    Net Debt Position is defined as the principal outstanding for the 2022 Term Loan and 2022 Revolving Credit Facility minus the cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2024.

    (In thousands)   Reconciliation of
    Net Carrying
    Amount of debt to
    Net Debt
    Current portion of long-term debt   $ 29,479  
    Long-term debt     137,137  
    Net carrying amount of debt     166,616  
    Adjustments:    
    Add: Unamortized debt issuance costs     2,339  
    Less: Cash & cash equivalents     (14,802 )
    Net Debt   $ 154,153  
             

    About Waldencast plc

    Founded by Michel Brousset and Hind Sebti, Waldencast’s ambition is to build a global best-in-class beauty and wellness operating platform by developing, acquiring, accelerating, and scaling conscious, high-growth purpose-driven brands. Waldencast’s vision is fundamentally underpinned by its brand-led business model that ensures proximity to its customers, business agility, and market responsiveness, while maintaining each brand’s distinct DNA. The first step in realizing its vision was the Business Combination. As part of the Waldencast platform, its brands will benefit from the operational scale of a multi-brand platform; the expertise in managing global beauty brands at scale; a balanced portfolio to mitigate category fluctuations; asset light efficiency; and the market responsiveness and speed of entrepreneurial indie brands. For more information please visit: https://ir.waldencast.com.

    Obagi Medical is an industry-leading, advanced skin care line rooted in research and skin biology, refined with a legacy of over 35 years’ experience. First known as leaders in the treatment of hyperpigmentation with the Obagi Nu-Derm® System, Obagi Medical products are designed to address the appearance of premature aging, photodamage, skin discoloration, acne, and sun damage. More information about Obagi Medical is available on the brand’s website at www.obagi.com.

    Founded in 2016, Milk Makeup quickly became a cult-favorite among the beauty community for its values of self-expression and inclusion, captured by its signature “Live Your Look”, its innovative formulas, and clean ingredients. The brand creates vegan, cruelty-free, clean formulas and has its Milk Makeup HQ in Downtown NYC. Currently, Milk Makeup offers over 250 products through its U.S. website www.MilkMakeup.com, and retail partners including Sephora globally, Ulta Beauty in the U.S., Lyko in Scandinavia, Space NK and Boots in the United Kingdom and many more.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    All statements in this release that are not historical, are forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements about: Waldencast’s outlook and guidance for 2025; our ability to deliver financial results in line with expectations; expectations regarding sales, earnings or other future financial performance and liquidity or other performance measures; our long-term strategy and future operations or operating results; expectations with respect to our industry and the markets in which it operates; future product introductions; developments relating to the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings; and any assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” and “will” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.

    These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside of our control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: (i) the impact of the material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, including associated investigations, our efforts to remediate such material weakness and the timing of remediation and resolution of associated investigations; (ii) our ability to recognize the anticipated benefits from any acquired business, including the Business Combination; (iii) our ability to successfully implement our management’s plans and strategies; (iv) the overall economic and market conditions, sales forecasts and other information about our possible or assumed future results of operations or our performance; (v) the general impact of geopolitical events, including the impact of current wars, conflicts or other hostilities; (vi) the potential for delisting, legal proceedings or existing or new government investigation or enforcement actions, including those relating to the restatement or the subject of the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors’ review further described in our annual report filed on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2022, (vii) our ability to manage expenses, our liquidity and our investments in working capital; (viii) any failure to obtain governmental and regulatory approvals related to our business and products; (ix) the impact of any international trade or foreign exchange restrictions, increased tariffs, foreign currency exchange fluctuations; (x) our ability to raise additional capital or complete desired acquisitions; (xi) our ability to comply with financial covenants imposed by the new 2025 credit agreement we entered into referenced in the section entitled “New Credit Facility” above and the impact of debt service obligations and restricted debt covenants; (xii) volatility of Waldencast’s securities due to a variety of factors, including Waldencast’s inability to implement its business plans or meet or exceed its financial projections and changes; (xiii) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations, and identify and realize additional opportunities; (xiv) the ability of Waldencast to implement its strategic initiatives and continue to innovate Obagi Medical’s and Milk Makeup’s existing products and anticipate and respond to market trends and changes in consumer preferences, (xv) any shifts in the preferences of consumers as to where and how they shop; (xvi) the impact of any unfavorable publicity on our business or products; (xvii) changes in future exchange or interest rates or credit ratings; (xviii) changes in, and uncertainty with respect to, laws, regulations, and policies, including as a result of the change in the U.S. administration; and (xix) social, political and economic conditions. These and other risks, assumptions and uncertainties are more fully described in the Risk Factors section of our 2023 20-F (File No. 01-40207), filed with the SEC on April 30, 2024, and in our other documents that we file or furnish with the SEC, which you are encouraged to read.

    Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Waldencast expressly disclaims any current intention, and assumes no duty, to update publicly any forward-looking statement after the distribution of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.

    Contacts:

    Investors
    ICR
    Allison Malkin
    waldencastir@icrinc.com

    Media
    ICR
    Brittney Fraser/Alecia Pulman
    waldencast@icrinc.com

    Appendix

    Comparable Net Revenue Growth

        Group   Obagi Medical
    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Revenue   $ 72,083     $ 55,117   $ 273,868     $ 218,138   $ 42,211     $ 32,470   $ 149,266     $ 117,651
    Obagi Medical China Business     735       —     2,804       5,619     735       —     2,804       5,619
    Comparable Net Revenue   $ 71,348     $ 55,117   $ 271,064     $ 212,519   $ 41,476     $ 32,470   $ 146,462     $ 112,032
    Comparable Growth     29.4 %         27.5 %         27.7 %         30.7 %    
                                                     

    Adjusted Gross Profit

        Group
    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Three months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Revenue   $ 72,083     $ 55,117     $ 273,868     $ 218,138  
    Gross Profit     49,450       37,476       191,744       141,577  
    Gross Profit Margin     68.6 %     68.0 %     70.0 %     64.9 %
    Gross Margin Adjustments:                
    Amortization of the fair value of the related party liability(1)     (750 )     —       (2,260 )     (4,058 )
    Amortization of the inventory fair value adjustment(2)     —       —       —       1,691  
    Discontinued product write-off(3)     1,139       —       2,864       —  
    Amortization impact of intangible assets(4)     2,801       2,801       11,205       11,205  
    Adjusted Gross Profit   $ 52,639     $ 40,277     $ 203,553     $ 150,415  
    Adjusted Gross Margin %     73.0 %     73.1 %     74.3 %     69.0 %
                                     

     

    (1) Relates to the fair value of the related party liability for the unfavorable discount to the Obagi Medical China Business as part of the Business Combination.
    (2) Relates to the amortization of the inventory fair value step-up as a result of the Business Combination.
    (3) Relates to the advance purchase of specific products for the market in Vietnam sold through the SA Distributor that became obsolete when the distribution contract was terminated.
    (4) The Supply Agreement and Formulations intangible assets are amortized to cost of goods sold.
       
        Obagi Medical   Milk Makeup
    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Revenue   $ 42,211     $ 32,470     $ 149,266     $ 117,651     $ 29,872     $ 22,647     $ 124,602     $ 100,487  
    Gross Profit     30,050       23,175       106,760       76,582       19,395       14,301       84,984       64,995  
    Gross Profit Margin     71.2 %     71.4 %     71.5 %     65.1 %     64.9 %     63.1 %     68.2 %     64.7 %
    Gross Margin Adjustments:                                
    Amortization of the fair value of the related party liability     (750 )     —       (2,260 )     (4,058 )     —       —       —       —  
    Amortization of the inventory fair value adjustment     —       —       —       —       —       —       —       1,691  
    Discontinued product write-off     1,139       —       2,864       —       —       —       —       —  
    Amortization impact of intangible assets     2,801       2,801       11,205       11,205       —       —       —       —  
    Adjusted Gross Profit   $ 33,239     $ 25,976     $ 118,569     $ 83,729     $ 19,395     $ 14,301     $ 84,984     $ 66,686  
    Adjusted Gross Margin %     78.7 %     80.0 %     79.4 %     71.2 %     64.9 %     63.1 %     68.2 %     66.4 %
                                                                     

    Adjusted EBITDA Margin by Segment

        Obagi Medical   Milk Makeup
    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Three
    months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Loss   $ (12,114 )   $ (8,305 )   $ (31,524 )   $ (32,214 )   $ 230     $ (3,959 )   $ 8,803     $ (5,655 )
    Adjusted For:                                
    Depreciation and amortization     10,397       10,425       41,591       41,984       4,616       4,457       18,424       18,514  
    Interest expense, net     3,068       3,341       12,391       12,644       (3 )     4       (1 )     590  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     3,933       (990 )     (141 )     (6,997 )     25       9       32       10  
    Stock-based compensation expense     465       (317 )     (328 )     726       (338 )     444       1,167       2,352  
    Legal and advisory non-recurring costs     1,061       1,119       5,054       1,702       —       —       —       27  
    Amortization and release of related party liability     (4,169 )     —       (5,678 )     (4,058 )     —       —       —       —  
    Loss on impairment of goodwill     5,031       —       5,031       —       —       —       —       —  
    Other costs     2,166       2,682       4,120       7,027       285       428       639       2,566  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 9,838     $ 7,956     $ 30,516     $ 20,814     $ 4,814     $ 1,383     $ 29,064     $ 18,404  
    Net Revenue   $ 42,211     $ 32,470     $ 149,266     $ 117,651     $ 29,872     $ 22,647     $ 124,602     $ 100,487  
    Net Loss % of Net Revenue     (28.7 )%     (25.6 )%     (21.1 )%     (27.4 )%     0.8 %     (17.5 )%     7.1 %     (5.6 )%
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin     23.3 %     24.5 %     20.4 %     17.7 %     16.1 %     6.1 %     23.3 %     18.3 %
                                                                     
        Central costs
    (In thousands, except for percentages)   Three months
    ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Three months
    ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year ended
    December 31,
    2023
    Net Loss   $ (10,714 )   $ (20,467 )   $ (25,927 )   $ (68,099 )
    Adjusted For:                
    Depreciation and amortization     —       (20 )     —       —  
    Interest expense, net     1,024       931       4,765       5,654  
    Income tax expense     155       4       219       12  
    Stock-based compensation expense     2,866       1,549       8,553       6,157  
    Legal and advisory non-recurring costs     1,968       11,830       16,439       31,054  
    Change in fair value of warrants and interest rate collar     443       2,473       (23,679 )     10,443  
    Other costs     789       (26 )     334       (44 )
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ (3,468 )   $ (3,727 )   $ (19,296 )   $ (14,823 )
    Net Revenue   $ —     $ —     $ —     $ —  
    Net Loss % of Net Revenue     N/A       N/A       N/A       N/A  
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin     N/A       N/A       N/A       N/A  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INITIATIVES UNDERTAKEN TO PROMOTE ORGANIC FARMING

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:08PM by PIB Delhi

    Government is promoting organic farming through the schemes of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) in all the States/UTs and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) scheme is being implemented. Both the schemes stress on end-to-end support to farmers engaged in organic farming i.e. from production to post-harvest management training and capacity building. The main focus of the PKVY and MOVCDNER schemes is to promote natural resource based integrated and climate resilient sustainable farming systems that ensure maintenance and increase of soil fertility, natural  resource conservation, on-farm nutrient recycling and minimize dependence of farmers on external inputs.

    So far, 59.74 lakh ha area has been covered under organic farming since 2015-16. The State wise details of area covered under organic farming National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) (including MOVCDNER) + Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) under PKVY till 2023-2024 is given at Annexure-I.

    Under PKVY scheme, States/UTs are provided financial assistance of Rs. 31,500/ha in total in 3 years in the organic clusters out of which, Rs. 15,000/ha is provided directly to farmers through DBT for on-farm and off-farm organic inputs, Rs. 4,500/ha for marketing, packaging, branding, value addition etc., Rs. 3,000/ha for certification and residue analysis and Rs. 9,000/ha for training and capacity building. Under MOVCDNER scheme, assistance of Rs. 46,500/ha in total in 3 years is provided for creation of Farmers Producer Organizations, support to farmers for organic inputs etc. Out of this, assistance @ Rs. 32,500/ ha is provided to farmers for off -farm /on –farm organic inputs including Rs. 15,000 as Direct Benefit Transfer to the farmers. Farmers can avail assistance for maximum 2ha area under both the schemes.

    Two types of organic certifications systems have been developed to ensure quality control of organic produce as given below:

    • Third Party Certification by Accredited Certification Agency under NPOP scheme under Ministry of Commerce and Industry for development of export market.
    • PGS-India under Ministry of Agriculture and farmers Welfare involves stakeholders (including farmers/ producers) in decision making about the operation of the PGS-India certification by assessing, inspecting and verifying the production practices of each other.

    Under PKVY scheme assistance @ Rs 4,500/ha is provided in total in 3 years to facilitate value addition, marketing and publicity. Assistance is provided for certification & training and handholding & capacity building @ Rs 3.000/-ha for 3 years and Rs 7,500/- ha respectively for 3 years under PKVY for farmers. Whereas under MOVCDNER scheme assistance is provided @ Rs10,000/ -ha in total in 3 years for training, capacity building & certification.

    To ensure market availability States organize seminars, conferences, workshops, buyer-seller meetings, exhibitions, trade fairs, and organic festivals either within their own region or in key markets of other states.

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

    ******

     MG/KSR

    Annexure – I

    State wise details of total cumulative area covered under organic farming NPOP (including MOVCDNER) + PGS under PKVY till 2023-2024

    Area in ha

    S. NO.

    State Name

    NPOP

    PGS under PKVY

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    63,678.69

    3,60,805

    2

    Bihar

    29,062.13

    31,783

    3

    Chhattisgarh

    15,144.13

    1,01,279

    4

    Goa

    12,287.40

    15334

    5

    Gujarat

    6,80,819.99

    10000

    6

    Haryana

    2,925.33

    –

    7

    Himachal Pradesh

    9,334.28

    18748

    8

    Jharkhand

    54,408.20

    25300

    9

    Kerala

    44,263.91

    94480

    10

    Karnataka

    71,085.99

    20900

    11

    Madhya Pradesh

    11,48,236.07

    74960

    12

    Maharashtra

    10,01,080.32

    66756

    13

    Odisha

    1,81,022.28

    45800

    14

    Punjab

    11,089.41

    6981

    15

    Tamil Nadu

    42,758.27

    32940

    16

    Telangana

    84,865.16

    8100

    17

    Rajasthan

    5,80,092.22

    148500

    18

    Uttar Pradesh

    66,391.34

    171185

    19

    Uttarakhand

    1,01,820.39

    140740

    20

    West Bengal

    8,117.80

    21400

    21

    Assam

    27,079.40

    4400

    22

    Arunachal Pradesh

    16,537.53

    380

    23

    Meghalaya

    29,703.30

    900

    24

    Manipur

    32,584.50

    600

    25

    Mizoram

    14,238.30

    780

    26

    Nagaland

    16,221.56

    480

    27

    Sikkim

    75,729.78

    63000

    28

    Tripura

    20,481.36

    1000

    29

    Jammu & Kashmir

    34,746.75

    5160

    30

    Pondicherry

    21.51

    –

    31

    Delhi

    9.60

    –

    32

    Ladakh

    –

    10480

    33

    Daman & Diew

    –

    642

    34

    Dadar & Nagar Haveli

    –

    500

    35

    Andaman & Nicobar

    –

    14491

    Total

    44,75,836.90

    14,98,804

    Grand Total (NPOP + PGS)

    59,74,640.90

    Source: APEDA + PGS

    *******

    (Release ID: 2112405) Visitor Counter : 56

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MITIGATING THE IMPACT OF EXTREME CLIMATE

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:06PM by PIB Delhi

    As per the National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM), the primary responsibility for disaster management, including disbursal of relief assistance on ground level, rests with the State Governments concerned. The State Governments undertake relief measures in the wake of natural calamities, from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) already placed at their disposal, in accordance with Government of India’s approved items and norms. The Central Government supplements the efforts of the State Governments and provides requisite logistics and financial support. Additional financial assistance is provided from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), as per laid down procedure, in case of disaster of ‘severe nature’, which includes an assessment based on the visit of an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT).

    Further, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) along with weather index based Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) provide a comprehensive insurance cover against failure of the crop to farmers suffering crop loss/damage arising out of unforeseen natural calamities.

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

    Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme improves water use efficiency through Micro Irrigation technologies i.e. drip and sprinkler irrigation systems. Rainfed Area Development (RAD) scheme focuses on Integrated Farming System (IFS) for enhancing productivity and minimizing risks associated with climatic variability. Under RAD, crops/ cropping system is integrated with activities like horticulture, livestock, fishery, agro-forestry, apiculture etc. to enable farmers, not only in maximizing farm returns for sustaining livelihood but also to mitigate the impacts of drought, flood or other extreme weather events.  Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), Agroforestry & National Bamboo Mission also aim to increase climate resilience in agriculture.

    The Government has set up National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) in 2008, which provide an overarching policy framework for climate action in the country. The NAPCC outlines a national strategy to enable the country to adapt to climate change and enhance ecological sustainability. One of the National Missions under NAPCC is the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) which evolves and implements strategies to make agriculture more resilient to the changing climate.

    The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has launched a flagship network project namely National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA). The project conducts studies on the impact of climate change on agriculture including crops, livestock, horticulture and fisheries and also develops and promotes climate resilient technologies in agriculture for vulnerable areas of the country. The outputs of the project help the regions to cope with extreme weather conditions like droughts, floods, frost, heat waves, etc. During last 10 years (2014-2024), a total of 2593 varieties have been released by ICAR, out of these 2177 varieties have been found tolerant to one or more biotic and/or abiotic stresses. Risk and vulnerability assessment of agriculture to climate change has been carried out at district-level for 651 predominantly agricultural districts as per Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) protocols. Out of 310 districts identified as vulnerable, 109 districts have been categorized as ‘very high’ and 201 districts as ‘highly vulnerable. District Agriculture Contingency Plans (DACPs) for these 651 districts have also been prepared to address weather aberrations and recommending location specific climate resilient crops and varieties and management practices for use by the State Departments of Agriculture. For enhancing the resilience and adaptive capacity of farmers to climate variability, the Concept of “Climate Resilient Villages” (CRVs) has been initiated under NICRA. Location-specific climate resilient technologies have been demonstrated in 448 CRVs of 151 climatically vulnerable districts covering 28 states/UTs for adoption by farmers. ICAR through its NICRA project, creates awareness about impact of climate change in agriculture among farmers. Capacity building programmes are being conducted to educate the farmers on various aspects of climate change for wider adoption of climate resilient technologies.

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

    ******

     MG/KSR

    (Release ID: 2112402) Visitor Counter : 23

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DRIP AND SPRINKLER IRRIGATION THROUGH PMKSY

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) Scheme is being implemented since 2015-16.  The Scheme focuses on enhancing water use efficiency at farm level through Micro Irrigation, namely, drip and sprinkler irrigation systems.  From 2015-16 to 2021-22, the Scheme was implemented as a component of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY). From 2022-23, the scheme is being implemented under Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PMRKVY).

    From 2015-16 till date, 96.97 lakh ha has been covered under micro irrigation through PDMC scheme, which includes 46.37 lakh ha under drip irrigation and 50.60 lakh ha under sprinkler irrigation.

    Under PDMC Scheme, financial assistance is provided to farmers for installation of micro irrigation systems @ 55% and 45% of the unit cost to small &  marginal farmers and other farmers respectively.

    NITI Aayog conducted an evaluation study of PDMC scheme in the year 2020. The study revealed that the scheme is relevant in achieving national priorities such as improving on-farm water use efficiency, enhancing crop productivity, generating employment opportunities, overall income enhancement of farmers etc. 

    Central Assistance of Rs. 5711.55 crore has been released/sanctioned till date under PMRKVY to the States during current financial year, which includes Rs. 2232.30 crore for PDMC scheme.

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

    ******

     MG/KSR

    (Release ID: 2112401) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INELIGIBLE BENEFICIARIES RECEIVING FUNDS UNDER PM-KISAN

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

    INELIGIBLE BENEFICIARIES RECEIVING FUNDS UNDER PM-KISAN

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:04PM by PIB Delhi

    The PM-KISAN scheme is a central sector scheme launched in February 2019 by the Hon’ble Prime Minister to supplement the financial needs of cultivable land-holding farmers. Under the scheme, a financial benefit of Rs 6,000/- per year is transferred in three equal instalments, into the Aadhaar seeded bank accounts of farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode. Maintaining absolute transparency in registering and verifying beneficiaries, the Government of India has disbursed over Rs 3.68 lakh Cr. through 19 installments since inception. Instalment-wise details is annexed.

    Benefits of the scheme are transferred to the beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode, based on the verified data received from the States/UTs on the PM-KISAN portal. In order to ensure that benefits are released only to the eligible beneficiaries, land seeding, Aadhaar based payment and eKYC have been made mandatory. The benefits of the farmers, who did not complete these mandatory criteria, were stopped. As and when these farmers complete their mandatory requirements, they will receive the benefits of the scheme along with their due installments, if any. Further, States/UTs are mandated to recover any amount transferred to ineligible farmers marked due to higher income groups such as income tax payees, employees of PSUs, State/Central Govt., Constitutional post holders etc. An amount of Rs. 416 Cr. has been recovered from the ineligible beneficiaries so far across the country. 

    Several technological interventions have been introduced under PM-KISAN to improve transparency and efficiency in fund disbursement. A dedicated PM-KISAN portal and mobile app were developed, offering services like self-registration, benefit status tracking, and facial authentication-based e-KYC introduced in June 2023. Farmers in remote areas can complete e-KYC via face scans, with provisions to assist neighbours. Over 5 lakh Common Service Centres (CSCs) have been onboarded to facilitate registrations and meet mandatory requirements. Land seeding, Aadhaar-based payments, and e-KYC were progressively made mandatory from the 12th to the 15th instalment. Additionally, a robust grievance redressal system was established on the portal, and an AI chatbot, Kisan-eMitra, launched in September 2023, provides instant query resolution in local languages regarding payments, registration, and eligibility.

    The Ministry often undertakes saturation drives in coordination with State Governments to ensure that no eligible farmers are left out from the Scheme. The major nationwide saturation drives conducted since 15th November 2023 have resulted in the addition of over 1.5 crore new eligible farmers under the scheme.

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

    The Government is continuously working towards ensuring comprehensive support for farmers by integrating various welfare schemes. PM-Kisan provides direct income support to eligible farmers, and efforts have been made to create synergies with other schemes such as Kisan Credit Card (KCC) for easy access to credit.

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

    ******

     MG/KSR

    Annexure

    Installment-wise details of beneficiaries and amount released under PM-Kisan Scheme

    Instalment No.

    Instalment period

    Number of beneficiaries

    Disbursed amount (In Cr.)

    1

    December, 2018 – March, 2019

    3,16,21,382

    6,324.28

    2

    April, 2019 – July, 2019

    6,00,34,808

    13,272.00

    3

    August, 2019 – November,  2019

    7,65,99,962

    17,526.92

    4

    December, 2019 – March,  2020

    8,20,91,433

    17,942.95

    5

    April, 2020 – July, 2020

    9,26,93,902

    20,989.46

    6

    August, 2020 – November,  2020

    9,72,27,173

    20,476.24

    7

    December, 2020 – March, 2021

    9,84,75,226

    20,474.95

    8

    April, 2021 – July, 2021

    9,99,15,224

    22,415.06

    9

    August, 2021- November, 2021

    10,34,45,600

    22,395.43

    10

    December, 2021- March,  2022

    10,41,67,787

    22,343.30

    11

    April, 2022 – July, 2022

    10,48,43,465

    22,617.98

    12

    August, 2022 – November, 2022

    8,57,37,576

    18,041.35

    13

    December, 2022 – March,  2023

    8,12,37,172

    17,650.07

    14

    April, 2023 – July, 2023

    8,56,78,805

    19,203.74

    15

    August, 2023 – November,  2023

    8,12,16,535

    19,596.74

    16

    December, 2023 – March,  2024

    9,04,30,715

    23,088.88

    17

    April, 2024 – July, 2024

    9,38,01,342

    21,056.75

    18

    August, 2024 – November,  2024

    9,59,26,746

    20,665.51

    19

    December, 2024 – March, 2025

    9,88,42,900

    22,270.45

    ******

    (Release ID: 2112399)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: STUBBLE BURNING

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW)  is primarily supporting the efforts of States of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for combating paddy stubble burning under the Crop Residue Management Scheme being implemented from 2018-19, focusing on both in-situ and ex-situ management of paddy straw.

    Under this scheme, financial assistance @ 50% of the cost of machine is provided to the farmers for purchase of crop residue management machinery and @ 80% for the projects costing up to Rs. 30 lakhs is provided to Rural Entrepreneurs (Rural youth & Farmer as an entrepreneur), Cooperative Societies of farmers, Registered Farmers Societies, Farmers Producer Organization (FPOs) and Panchayats for establishment of Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) of crop residue management machines. The scheme promotes the usage of machines and equipments such as Super Straw Management System, Happy Seeder, Super Seeder, Smart Seeder, Surface Seeder, Zero Till Seed cum Fertilizer Drill etc. for in-situ management of crop residue and Balers & Straw Rakes for collection of straw for further ex-situ utilization.

    With a view to enable efficient ex-situ management of paddy straw generated in these States, provisions have been made to establish projects for paddy straw supply chain with financial assistance @ 65% on the capital cost of machinery costing up to Rs. 1.50 crores. The intervention aims at establishing a robust supply chain of paddy straw for various end user industries in biomass power generation and biofuel sectors.

    Under this scheme, during the period from 2018-19 to 2024-25 (as on 28 February 2025), an amount of Rs. 3698.45 Crore have been released to these States and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).  The States have established more than 41,900 CHCs of crop residue management machines and more than 3.23 lakh crop residue management machines have been supplied to these CHCs and individual farmers of these States.     

    As per the reports released by the Consortium for Research on Agroecosystem Monitoring and Modeling from Space (CREAMS) Laboratory, Division of Agricultural Physics, ICAR – Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, the paddy straw burning events between 15th September to 30th November during the last year in the States of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh were 42962, which have been reduced to 18457 events during 2024 for the same period, which indicates 57 percent reduction in paddy straw burning over the last year.

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

    ******

     MG/KSR

    (Release ID: 2112397) Visitor Counter : 36

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCHEMES FOR AGRI RELATED TOURISM ACTIVITIES

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare does not have any ‘Scheme for Agri Related Tourism Activities’.  However, Development and promotion of tourist destinations and products, including rural tourism is undertaken by the respective State Government/Union Territory (UT) Administration.  The Ministry of Tourism through its central sector schemes of ‘Swadesh Darshan (SD)’, ‘Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)’ and ‘Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development’ complements the efforts of tourism infrastructure development in the country by extending financial assistance to the State Governments/UT Administrations. Rural Circuit has been identified as one of the thematic circuits under Swadesh Darshan Scheme.

    Ministry of Tourism has revamped the Swadesh Darshan Scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD 2.0) with the objective to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations, following a destination & tourist-centric approach.

    Ministry of Tourism has also formulated national strategies for development of rural tourism and promotion of rural homestays in India.”

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

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESENT STATUS OF PEST RESISTANT SEEDS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 5:59PM by PIB Delhi

    Development of location specific high yielding varieties/ seeds is a continuous process and regularly carried out by the crop based All India Co-ordinated Research Projects (AICRPs) as per the norms and guidelines across the National Agricultural Research System (NARES) under the aegis of India Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The varieties/ seeds thus developed are notified in the Gazette of India after thorough examination by the Central Sub-Committee on Crop Standards, Notification and Release of Varieties for Agricultural Crops. During the last 10 years (2014 – 2024) a total of 2900 location specific high yielding field crop varieties have been developed and out of these notified varieties / seeds, crop-wise varieties / seeds developed along with the pest /disease resistant/tolerant varieties / seeds (in parenthesis) are as follows: rice 668 (588); wheat 178 (168); barley 21 (13); maize 239 (229); sorghum 78 (68); pearl millet 81 (75); other millets 115 (95); pulses 437 (402); oilseeds 412 (342); fiber crops 376 (345); forage crops 178 (147); sugarcane 88 (83) and other crops 29 (19). These seeds are included in the seed chain for further supply of quality seed to the farmers.

    Further, to minimize the losses due to insect-pests infestation, various package of practices for control of insect-pests have been recommended, through which farmers are controlling the insect-pests.

    Government of India supports the efforts of States through appropriate policy measures, budgetary allocation and various schemes/ programmes like awareness campaign at village level through crop demonstration and training programmes. The various schemes/ programmes of the Government of India like PM Fasal Bima Yojana, NAMO Kisan Yojana and adoption of integrated crop management practices are meant for the welfare of farmers by increasing production, remunerative returns and income support to farmers. The Government of India has substantially enhanced the budget allocation of Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare from Rs. 21933.50 crore (BE) during 2013-14 to Rs. 1,22,528.77 crore (BE) during 2024-25. The data/details related to suicides Committee by farmers is maintained by respective State Government

    Out of these 2900 developed field crop varieties, 2661 varieties (cereals 1258; oilseeds 368; pulses 410; fibre crops 358; forage crops 157, sugarcane 88 and other crops 22) are tolerant to one or more biotic and/or abiotic stresses.  Of these 537 varieties have been developed specially for extreme climate using the precision phenotyping tools.

    Systematic efforts have been undertaken to produce breeder and quality seeds of these varieties as per the indents received from different agencies.  Breeder seed production in sufficient quality has been planned from Rabi 2024-25 and processing for Kharif 2025 for expediting delivery of seed to the farmers. Since 2014, total 11.85 lakh quintals of breeder seed have been produced and supplied to the various public and private sector seed agencies for its donwstream multiplication to foundation and certified seeds. The share of less than 10 years old varieties in total seed supply is more than 70%.

    All possible efforts are made for creating awareness about these varieties among the seed production agencies and farmers through Doordarshan channels, All India Radio, print, electronic and social media. Frontline demonstrations of these improved crop cultivars are regularly conducted throughout the country by ICAR institutions and SAUs. Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) demonstrates these improved crop cultivars to farmers. Varieties developed are disseminated among farmers for large scale adoption though KVKs, State Department of Agriculture, Doordarshan, ICT tools like mobile apps, etc.

    The Government of India is implementing Seed Village Programme component of the Sub-Mission on Seed & Planting Material (SMSP) under National Food Security & Nutrition Mission. The objective of this scheme is to make available the seeds of climate resilient, biofortified and high-yielding varieties to the farmers at the village. Under this programme, the financial assistance for distribution of foundation/ certified seeds is 50% of seed cost in cereals and 60% in oilseeds, fodder and green manure crops for production of quality seeds for one acre per farmer. National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-OS) has been approved for boosting domestic oilseed production and achieving self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in edible oils during 2024-25 to 2030-31.

    This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Bhagirath Choudhary in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India and New Zealand working on a comprehensive, mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement: Shri Piyush Goyal

    Source: Government of India

    India and New Zealand working on a comprehensive, mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement: Shri Piyush Goyal

    New Zealand Prime Minister and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal address CEOs of India and New Zealand

    I feel incredibly optimistic about the future of both the countries and India for us is a game changer:The Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, PM of New Zealand

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 5:41PM by PIB Delhi

    India and New Zealand are working to finalize a comprehensive and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, said this while addressing the CEOs of India and New Zealand in New Delhi today. The two countries had announced the launch of negotiations for an FTA earlier this week. The event today was attended by the Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand, Hon’ble Mr. Todd McClay, New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment, Agriculture and Forestry, business leaders and senior officers of the two countries.

    Addressing the business leaders, Shri Goyal emphasized the immense potential for collaboration between the two countries. He articulated an ambitious vision for the India-New Zealand partnership, targeting 10x growth in bilateral trade over the next decade.

    Prime Minister of New Zealand, The Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, while addressing the forum, stated that businesses play a critical role in both economies and in strengthening bilateral relations. The Prime Minister further emphasized the need to explore new frontiers and sectors where New Zealand holds a competitive advantage. “I feel incredibly optimistic about the future of both India and New Zealand. India for us is a game changer. As a smaller country in the world, India is a really consequential relationship for us. We all recognize that there is a lot more that these two countries should be doing together. When we look at the trading relationship today at $3 billion, there’s a huge opportunity for us here,” he added.

    The Commerce Minister called on business leaders from both countries to contribute towards achieving this goal. “There are hardly any areas where we compete with each other, and the few areas of sensitivity can be navigated with mutual respect. Given our different levels of development, there are limitless possibilities for cooperation in agri-tech, dairy, food processing, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, critical minerals, forestry, horticulture, tourism, and sports,” he said.

    Discussing global challenges, Shri Goyal emphasized the importance of trusted partnerships. “The world is going through a lot of problems. A defining partnership between our two nations can serve as a model for how trusted partners work together. It’s not about the size of an economy; it’s about collaboration and shared values,” he said. He noted that India’s economy, currently at $4 trillion, is poised to grow to $30-35 trillion in the next 22-25 years, presenting immense opportunities for collaboration.

    Shri Goyal highlighted the role of tourism in fostering stronger relations between India and New Zealand. He praised the Prime Minister of New Zealand for his commitment to enhancing ties between the two nations and noted that their partnership could create significant economic opportunities. “Together, we can make a significant difference to our economies. Both countries will emerge as winners through this partnership,” he stated.

    Drawing a parallel with cricket, Shri Goyal described the partnership as “aggressive yet graceful, passionate but well-composed, and creating a strong innings.” He expressed confidence that India and New Zealand are ready to step up for a brighter future.

    The Minister underscored the importance of working with democracies where the rule of law prevails and businesses get fair opportunities. He mentioned the strong people-to-people linkages between India and New Zealand, citing Papatoetoe in Auckland as “Little India.” He expressed optimism about Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, stating that they would be vibrant and add more depth to the relationship.

    He also stressed the importance of education and research in bringing people closer, highlighting the potential of New Zealand’s innovation to reach the world through India. He suggested that manufacturing in India for global markets at competitive prices could take the partnership to greater heights.

    Speaking on connectivity, Shri Goyal reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening financial and digital linkages, as well as facilitating swift mobility of manpower and technical talent. He noted that India produces the highest number of STEM graduates annually, with 43% of them being women, showcasing the diversity and strength of India’s workforce.

    “Our two countries have decisive leaders, and India’s young, aspirational population of 1.4 billion, combined with New Zealand’s innovative spirit, will create a potent partnership that the world will look up to. Walking into the future while respecting the past—this perfectly captures the essence of our collaboration,” he concluded.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: California strengthens its position as the global AI leader with new working report issued by experts and academics

    Source: US State of California 2

    Mar 18, 2025

    What you need to know: With the release of a new draft working report by leading artificial intelligence experts, California continues to lead in advocating for the responsible use of emerging AI technology and the study of its impacts and opportunities. 

    SAN FRANCISCO – California’s leadership in the AI industry is helping to guide the world in the responsible implementation and use of this emerging technology. Today, a group of world-leading AI academics and experts, convened at the request of Governor Newsom, released a new draft report on workable guardrails based on an empirical, science-based analysis of the capabilities and attendant risks of frontier models — which will help pave the way for the use of AI for the benefit of all Californians. 

    “The future happens in California first – including the development of powerful AI technology. As home to over half of the world’s top AI companies, our state carries a unique responsibility in leading the safe advancement of this industry in a way that improves our communities, maintains our economic dominance, and ensures that this fast-moving technology benefits the public good.” 

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    AI is already changing the world, and California will play a pivotal role in defining that future. As the fifth-largest economy in the world and the birthplace of the tech industry, California continues to dominate this sector as the leader in AI. The state is home to 32 of the 50 top AI companies worldwide. In addition to championing responsible use of this emerging industry, California is harnessing its potential to increase efficiency and support state operations.  

    Studying AI’s risk and opportunities 

    Today’s working report is a result of the Governor’s convening of leading experts on artificial intelligence and policy to help California develop workable guardrails for deploying generative AI (GenAI), focusing on developing an empirical, science-based trajectory analysis of frontier models and their capabilities and attendant risks. Authors include the  “godmother of AI,” Dr. Fei-Fei Li, Professor of Computer Science at Stanford University and Founding Co-Director of Stanford’s Human-Centered AI Institute;  Mariano-Florentino “Tino” Cuéllar, President of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and member of the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Social and Ethical Implications of Computing Research; and Dr. Jennifer Tour Chayes, Dean of the College of Computing, Data Science, and Society at UC Berkeley.

    The working report includes recommendations on ensuring evidence-based policymaking, balancing the need for transparency with considerations such as security risks, and determining the appropriate level of regulation in this fast-evolving field.  As a working white paper, the authors invite public participation. Academics, experts, and other stakeholders can submit comments or suggestions regarding their recommendations here. 

    California’s AI global leadership 

    California has launched efforts to help the state take advantage of this emerging technology, while also creating responsible policy guardrails to protect Californians, businesses, and workers. In 2023, Governor Newsom signed an executive order laying out California’s measured approach to state GenAI procurement. That EO has shaped the future of ethical, transparent, and trustworthy GenAI deployment, all while California remains the world’s GenAI leader. 

    Harnessing the power of AI

    In 2024, Governor Newsom announced the state’s efforts to help utilize GenAI technologies to solve challenges, everything from reducing traffic to helping address homelessness.

    Governor Newsom also co-hosted a GenAI summit in May 2024 with leaders across academia, industry, civil society, and government to discuss how the state can best use this transformative technology on behalf of Californians.  

    First-of-its-kind effort with NVIDIA 

    In August 2024, the state partnered with NVIDIA to launch a first-of-its-kind AI collaboration. The initiative, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom and NVIDIA founder & CEO Jensen Huang, aims to:

    • Train students, educators and workers
    • Support job creation and promote innovation
    • Use AI to solve challenges that can improve the lives of Californians

    Among other goals, it strives to bring new AI resources into community colleges from NVIDIA – including curriculum and certifications, hardware and software, AI labs and workshops, and more – to open new pathways for students, educators, and workers to learn new skills and advance their careers.

    Staying ahead of threats 

    Last year, Governor Newsom also signed a series of bills to crack down on sexually explicit deepfakes and require AI watermarking, protect performers’ digital likenesses, and combat deepfake election content. 

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Mar 17, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the death of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Hector Cuevas Jr.:“Jennifer and I are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Deputy Cuevas. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his…

    Mar 17, 2025

    News Lo que necesita saber: California tiene un nuevo compañero en Sonora, México para impulsar el desarrollo de recursos energéticos renovables, la resiliencia de la cadena de suministro y el transporte limpio. To read this release in English, click here. Sacramento,…

    Mar 17, 2025

    News What you need to know: California has a new partner in Sonora, Mexico to boost the development of renewable energy resources, supply chain resilience, and clean transportation. Para leer este comunicado en español, haga clic aquí. Sacramento, California –…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Ban on animal testing and revision of the REACH Regulation – E-002727/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Placing on the market of cosmetic products or products with ingredients tested on animals for the purpose of meeting the safety requirements of the Cosmetic Products Regulation (CPR)[1] is prohibited. The ban under the CPR has been fully implemented since 2013.

    Cosmetics ingredients are also subjected to the regulation on registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH)[2], which may require animal testing, only as a last resort, to address risks to the environment or to workers ensuing from manufacturing the substances.

    Such risks are not covered by the CPR. Judgments[3] on legal challenges of the decisions of the Board of Appeal confirmed that the request of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to test the two mentioned substances does not violate the animal testing ban under the CPR.

    The understanding of ECHA and the Commission on the relationship between the two regulations is also made public in a communication[4] and an ECHA factsheet[5].

    Phasing out animal testing is a priority of the Commission, as highlighted in the response to the European Citizens’ Initiative ‘Save cruelty-free cosmetics — Commit to a Europe without animal testing’[6].

    The roadmap towards phasing out animal testing for chemical safety assessments, which the Commission is preparing, will lay out actions aiming to reach this goal.

    The Commission also remains strongly involved in the European partnership for alternative approaches to animal testing[7]. It will continue to stimulate investments in alternative methods. M ore than EUR 1 billion in research funding was provided in the EU in the last 20 years for this purpose.

    The Commission is also exploring opportunities to further reduce animal testing in the context of the forthcoming REACH revision.

    • [1] Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on cosmetic products (Text with EEA relevance), OJ L 342, 22.12.2009, p. 59-209.
    • [2] Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), OJ L 396.
    • [3] Judgments of 22.11.2023 in cases T-655/20 (https://curia.europa.eu/juris/liste.jsf?num=T-655/20&language=en) and T-656/20 (https://curia.europa.eu/juris/liste.jsf?language=en&num=T-656/20).
    • [4]  COM(2013) 135: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52013DC0135
    • [5] ECHA-14-FS-04-EN: https://echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/13628/reach_cosmetics_factsheet_en.pdf/2fbcf6bf-cc78-4a2c-83fa-43ca87cfb314
    • [6] Communication C(2023)5041 — https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2023-07/C_2023_5041_1_EN_ACT_part1_v6.pdf
    • [7] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/chemicals/european-partnership-alternative-approaches-animal-testing_en
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Breach of the contract terms of the bi-communal waste water treatment plant project in occupied Mia Milia in Nicosia – E-001004/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001004/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Costas Mavrides (S&D)

    The Nicosia Waste Water Treatment Unit began operations in 2013, using advanced membrane technology to produce safe, recycled water for irrigation purposes. It treats waste water from the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. The project, which has a total cost of around EUR 29 million, is being co-financed by the Nicosia Sewerage Council (70 %) and the European Commission (30 %) and is being implemented by the United Nations Development Programme.

    Since the start of the project, the two communities have worked together so that this water can be reused for agricultural irrigation. However, for some time now, a large part of the recycled water produced has ended up coursing down the Pedieos river into the sea close to the occupied area of Famagusta. This is because the occupying authorities have prevented repayment of the debt to the managing company. The value of the lost water for the 2020-2024 period alone is estimated to be EUR 28 million.

    In view of this, can the Commission say:

    • 1.Is it aware of the stance taken by the occupying regime and, if so, what steps has it taken to put an end to this unfortunate development?
    • 2.Has the European Court of Auditors been informed of the breach of the project contract terms, given that the project is being co-financed by European funds?

    Submitted: 7.3.2025

    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ECI meets with Election Commissioner of Bhutan Ugyen Chewang

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 9:36PM by PIB Delhi

    Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar along with ECs Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi met the Election Commissioner of Bhutan Mr. Ugyen Chewang during his call on at ECI today.

    The interaction was held under the auspices of a 2-week residential capacity development programme on election administration for 40 senior and mid-level officers from Bhutan in IIIDEM, New Delhi. The Hon’ble Election Commissioner of Bhutan is also participating in the programme. The programme is being conducted by IIIDEM from 10th to the 21st of March, 2025.

    The interactive, case-study based training programme covers key aspects of election management, including democracy fundamentals, voter registration, strategic and operational planning, party finance, and campaign expenditure. Topics for training included poll day arrangements, voter education, IT applications, gender inclusivity, result transmission, electoral integrity, etc. A leadership development module is also part of the programme. Sessions are led by CEOs, senior Election Commission experts, National Level Master Trainers (NLMTs) and independent experts amongst others.

    Such international training programs are a regular part of IIIDEM under the Election Commission of India.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Despite heavy rush, passenger demand & special trains during Holi, Diwali, Chhath, Summer and Maha Kumbh, Most Railway Divisions Maintain Over 90% Punctuality

    Source: Government of India

    Despite heavy rush, passenger demand & special trains during Holi, Diwali, Chhath, Summer and Maha Kumbh, Most Railway Divisions Maintain Over 90% Punctuality

    Holi Special Trains Surge from 241 in 2021-22 to 1,107 in 2024-25

    Total Number of Trains Operation Now Exceeds Pre-COVID Levels

    Under ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ Indian Railways Exports Rolling Stock, Including Vande Bharat Components, to Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 7:36PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, addressed the Lok Sabha today. He highlighted various aspects of Indian Railways, including infrastructure development, punctuality, environmental sustainability, exports, employment and financial position. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making Indian Railways a modern, efficient, and environmentally sustainable transport system, enhancing both passenger experience and economic growth.

    While speaking about punctuality of trains operation in the Lok Sabha today, the Union Railway Minister stated that Indian Railways has achieved an on-time performance of over 90% through the adoption of advanced signaling systems, real-time monitoring, AI-driven scheduling, and predictive maintenance. As highlighted by the Minister, out of 68 railway divisions, 49 have already surpassed 80% punctuality, while 12 divisions have impressively reached 95%. This enhanced efficiency has resulted in smoother train operations, benefiting both passengers and freight services. Currently, Indian Railways operates more than 13,000 passenger trains, including 4,111 Mail and Express trains, 3,313 Passenger trains, and 5,774 Suburban trains. Notably, the total number of trains in operation has now exceeded pre-COVID levels, reflecting the railway’s commitment to reliability and improved service delivery.

    To manage passenger demand during peak festive seasons, Indian Railway has operated a record number of special trains. Last year, during Holi, 604 special trains were operated to accommodate the surge in travelers. During the summer vacation period, around 13,000 special trains were introduced to facilitate smooth travel. Similarly, for Chhath and Diwali, 8,000 special trains were deployed. A remarkable effort was made during the Mahakumbh, with 17,330 special trains running to ensure seamless travel for devotees from across the country. This year, for Holi alone, 1,107 special trains have been arranged, reflecting the unwavering commitment of Indian Railways to passenger convenience and efficient travel management.

    The list of Special trains for Holi festival for the last four years.

    Year

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2024-25

    Holi spl No

    241

    527

    604

    1,107

    While talking about historic infrastructure expansion taking place across the railway network, the Minister emphasized the fulfillment of long-standing projects, such as connecting Jammu to Srinagar through engineering marvels like the Anji and Chenab bridges, with the latter standing 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower. With the completion of the CRS inspection and implementation of recommendations, train services between Jammu and Srinagar will soon commence. He also underscored the transformation of the Dedicated Freight Corridor, which has gone from being a mere proposal to an operational reality under the present government. Today, 350 freight trains run daily, reducing transit time from 24 to just 12 hours, significantly improving logistics. The Gati Shakti initiative has further bolstered freight operations, with 97 cargo terminals completed and 257 more under development. Tunnel construction in the railway network has seen a fourfold increase since 2014, with 460 km of new tunnels built, and innovations such as the Himalayan Tunneling Method and domestic production of Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) in Tamil Nadu showcasing India’s growing self-reliance in infrastructure technology.

    The Minister also highlighted the modernization of railway stations, with 129 stations already completed and many more to be operational by 2025-26 as part of the world’s largest station redevelopment program. Bridges across major rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Kosi have been constructed, improving connectivity in key regions. The Northeast has witnessed unprecedented rail expansion, with new lines in Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura. Indian Railways has also taken steps to address waterlogging in underpasses through extensive corrective measures. Shri Vaishnaw reiterated the government’s commitment to equitable development, emphasizing record budget allocations for all states, in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.’ However, he pointed out challenges such as slow land acquisition in states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, which continue to hinder progress. He further highlighted the significant expansion of the Kolkata Metro, where 38 km of metro lines have been added in just a decade, compared to 28 km in the previous 42 years. He also emphasized on the ambitious Bullet Train project as a transformative step toward modern, high-speed rail connectivity, ensuring world-class infrastructure for future generations.

    In line with the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, Indian Railways has taken several initiatives towards environmental sustainability with its ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero Carbon Emission (Scope 1) by 2025. Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw reiterated the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions through electrification, afforestation, and modal shift strategies. Net Zero for Indian Railways means offsetting or eliminating carbon emissions across various sectors, including railway traction, non-traction operations, vehicle fleets, and infrastructure such as Railway colonies and hospitals. A major step in this direction has been the transition from diesel to electric traction, with 97% of railway operations already electrified, and the remaining 3% nearing completion. To further support this goal, Indian Railways has undertaken massive afforestation efforts, planting 9 crore trees between 2014-15 and 2023-24, which contribute to offsetting 5 lakh tonnes of carbon emissions annually. Additionally, the shift from road to rail freight has led to an emission reduction of 17 lakh tonnes between 2021-22 and 2023-24. With projected emissions for 2024-25 estimated at 20 lakh tonnes and available offsets reaching 22 lakh tonnes, Indian Railways is well-positioned to meet its Net Zero target ahead of schedule. Beyond direct emissions, the railway is also shifting to non-fossil fuel-based power sources, further reducing indirect emissions. As the largest contributor to India’s green transportation sector, Indian Railways not only provides a low-carbon alternative to road transport but is also driving the transition to sustainable energy sources, reinforcing its role as a leader in the country’s journey toward environmental sustainability.

    Shri Vaishnaw also outlined the steps taken to boost exports, positioning Indian Railways as a global player in railway technology and manufacturing. Under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, Indian Railways has successfully exported rolling stock, including Vande Bharat train components, to countries in Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. India has also emerged as a key supplier of locomotives and coaches to international markets, strengthening its role in global railway infrastructure development.

    The Minister highlighted the significant employment opportunities created through railway projects, benefiting millions across the country. Over three lakh direct jobs have been generated through station redevelopment, track expansion, and new railway projects, alongside large-scale recruitment drives for loco pilots, technicians, station masters, and track maintenance workers. Other initiatives like the Rail Kaushal Vikas Yojana have played a crucial role in skilling thousands of young Indians in railway-related trades, enhancing their employability. A total of 1.26 crore candidates participated in the recruitment examination, which was conducted over 68 days in 133 shifts across 211 cities and 726 centers in 15 languages, with complete transparency and no incidents of paper leaks. More recently, 18.4 lakh candidates appeared over five days in 15 shifts across 156 cities and 346 centers, also in 15 languages,in the ALP exam and it was conducted smoothly without any issues. Regarding Exam centers being located outside candidates’ hometowns, the Minister clarified that this is a nationwide policy implemented uniformly to ensure smooth execution and maintain the integrity of the exams. In response to concerns about reservations, he reaffirmed that all reservation policies and regulations have been strictly adhered to in the recruitment of these five lakh jobs without any deviation. For the first time in 60 years, an annual recruitment calendar has been introduced in the railways to ensure a structured and timely hiring process, which is being effectively implemented for both 2024 and 2025, he added.

    While speaking about the financial position of Indian Railways, the Minister stated that despite the challenges faced during COVID, the Railways has now reached a healthy financial state. Currently, almost all expenses are being met through its own revenue. The major components of railway expenditure include staff costs of ₹1,16,000 crore, pensions for around 15 lakh pensioners amounting to ₹66,000 crore, energy costs of ₹32,000 crore, and financing costs of ₹25,000 crore. The total expenditure stands at ₹2,75,000 crore, while the total income is around ₹2,78,000 crore. Since COVID, the Railways has been covering its expenses from its revenue every year, and efforts will continue to further strengthen this financial position.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Update on Maternal and Child Health Indicators under NHM

    Source: Government of India

    Update on Maternal and Child Health Indicators under NHM

    India’s Maternal Mortality Ratio drops significantly from 130 to 97 per lakh live births

    Neonatal Mortality Rate drops 65%, outpacing global average

    Infant Mortality Rate in India falls by 69%, significantly exceeding global decline of 55%

    Under-5 Mortality Rate plummets 75% in India, surpassing global reduction of 58%

    India’s out-of-pocket expenditure as a share of Total Health Expenditure has fallen from 64.2% in 2013-14 to 39.4% in 2021-22

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 7:32PM by PIB Delhi

    As per the Sample Registration System (SRS) released by the Registrar General of India (RGI), the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) of the country has significantly declined by 33 points from 130 in 2014-16 to 97 in 2018-20 per lakh live births.

    Similarly, as per Sample Registration System (SRS) 2020, the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) of the country has declined from 39 per 1000 live births in 2014 to 28 per 1000 live births in 2020. Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR) has declined from 26 per 1000 live births in 2014 to 20 per 1000 live births in 2020. Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) has declined from 45 per 1000 live births in 2014 to 32 per 1000 live births in 2020.

    Over the past 30 years, as per United Nations Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group report (UN-MMIEG 1990-2020), the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) in India has declined by 83%, compared to the global reduction of 42%. Similarly, the Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR) in India has reduced by 65%, compared to 51% globally, Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) declined by 69% in India compared to 55% globally and Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) declined by 75% in India surpassing the global reduction of 58%.

    The key technological advancements introduced under NHM for facilitating patient care are follows:

    • U-WIN (Digital Vaccination Platform): The U-WIN Portal, launched in October 2024, is developed for the complete digitization of vaccination services and maintaining vaccination records for pregnant women and children from birth to 17 years under the Universal Immunization Programme.
    • Tele-MANAS (Mental Health Helpline): The Government has launched a “National Tele Mental Health Programme” on 10th October 2022, to further improve access to quality mental health counselling and care services in the country.
    • MMU Monitoring Portal: Tracks Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) via GPS, enhancing field healthcare services.

    To ensure the availability of essential drugs, diagnostics and to reduce the Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) of the patients visiting the public healthcare facilities including marginalized communities, the Government of India is providing financial support by implementing Free Drugs Service Initiative (FDSI) and Free Diagnostic Service Initiatives (FDSI) under National Health Mission (NHM) across all States and UTs.

    As per the National Health Accounts Estimates, the Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) as percentage of Total Health Expenditure (THE) has declined from 64.2 % in 2013-14 to 39.4% in 2021-22.

    The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel stated this in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    ****

    MV

    HFW/ Update on Maternal and Child Health Indicators under NHM /18 March 2025/2

    (Release ID: 2112476) Visitor Counter : 18

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews Mission Mausam and Other Projects of IMD, Pushes for Enhanced Weather Forecasting

    Source: Government of India

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Reviews Mission Mausam and Other Projects of IMD, Pushes for Enhanced Weather Forecasting

    India to Expand Doppler Radar Network for Better Weather Forecasting: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Directs IMD to Boost Public Outreach of Weather Alerts via Social Media

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:41PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, reviewed the progress of key meteorological initiatives, including “Mission Mausam”, pushed for enhanced weather forecasting and assessed the status of Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) installations across India.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the importance of real-time and impact-based weather forecasting, emphasizing that no weather hazard should go undetected or unpredicted. The expanding Doppler Weather Radar network of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) was a key highlight, with the Minister reviewing site selections for upcoming installations in Bengaluru, Raipur, Ahmedabad, Ranchi, Guwahati, Port Blair, and other locations.

     

    With 73 Doppler Weather Radars set to be operational by 2025-26 and 126 by 2026, the network aims to enhance India’s capability in tracking extreme weather events, benefiting disaster response teams and the general public, the Minister was informed.

    The Minister also instructed IMD to strengthen public outreach by leveraging social media for disseminating timely weather forecasts and warnings. Stressing the need for better citizen engagement, he directed officials to explore digital platforms and mobile applications such as Mausam, Meghdoot, and Umang, which provide weather updates and agro meteorological advisories.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to modernizing weather monitoring systems, highlighting the role of satellite meteorology, numerical weather prediction models, and radar-based forecasting in enhancing accuracy. The meeting also reviewed financial allocations and pending approvals for weather infrastructure projects, ensuring steady progress in India’s meteorological advancements.

    With extreme weather events becoming more frequent, the government’s focus on expanding radar coverage and improving dissemination mechanisms marks a crucial step in safeguarding lives and livelihoods. The discussion at the review meeting set the stage for faster implementation of weather monitoring projects, reinforcing India’s leadership in climate resilience and disaster preparedness.

    The review meeting, attended by Secretary, MoES, Dr. M. Ravichandran, DG, IMD Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra and other senior IMD officials, focused on improving weather forecasting accuracy and expanding outreach to the public.

    ****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2112434) Visitor Counter : 39

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Violation of European legislation due to discrimination in maternity leave for substitute teachers in Greece – E-001020/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001020/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elena Kountoura (The Left)

    In Greece, there is a serious issue of discrimination regarding maternity leave for substitute teachers, who are only entitled to 119 days of parental leave[1]. Because of this, many women are forced to return to work early or even resign[2], with multiple negative consequences for their family as well as for their financial and professional situation. The Greek Government’s refusal to equalise maternity leave for this category of workers raises a serious problem, both for the protection of women’s rights and for the country’s compliance with European law.

    Taking into account: a) the Commission’s letter of formal notice to Greece for the incorrect transposition of Directive 1999/70/EC[3] into national law, setting a two-month deadline for Greece to eliminate discrimination between workers, b) Article 5(1) of Directive (EU) 2019/1158 on work-life balance, which stipulates that every worker is individually entitled to four months of parental leave[4], c) the deadline for equalising leave for substitute and permanent staff by the end of September 2024[5], d) the fact that substitute teachers are not entitled to leave in the event of threatened miscarriage, and e) the fact that the Greek Government has ignored all of the above:

    • 1.What actions does the Commission intend to take to ensure the protection of female workers and the country’s full compliance with European law?
    • 2.How does the Commission intend to support Member States in protecting gender equality in the workplace?

    Submitted: 10.3.2025

    • [1] In contrast to the nine months provided for permanent teachers, see Article 142 of Law 3655/2008, as amended by Article 43 of Law 4997/2022 (https://www.kepea.gr/uplds/file/2022/n4997%202022.pdf) and Article 33 of Law 4808/2021 (https://www.minedu.gov.gr/publications/docs2021/adeies_anaplirotwn_ekpaideutikwn.pdf).
    • [2] It is noted that resignation is accompanied by a two-year exclusion from recruitment competitions, https://www.minedu.gov.gr/publications/docs2018/N4589FEK13.pdf.
    • [3] The directive prohibits discrimination against workers with fixed-term contracts.
    • [4] Member States shall put in place the necessary measures to ensure that each worker is individually entitled to four months of parental leave to be taken before the child reaches a certain age, up to the age of eight, to be determined by the Member State or by collective agreements, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EL/TXT/?uri=CELEX:02019L1158-20190712.
    • [5] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/el/inf_24_3228.
    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The 28th legal regime – E-001019/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001019/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez (Renew)

    The Competitiveness Compass published by the European Commission provides that a proposal for a 28th legal regime will be presented between the fourth quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026, the aim of which is to make it possible for innovative companies to benefit from a single, harmonised set of EU-wide rules.

    The Autonomous Community of the Basque Country and the Autonomous Community of Navarra are special cases in terms of their taxation system. The Basque Economic Agreement and the Navarra Economic Accord are recognised in the first additional provision to the Spanish Constitution, which establishes that taxation and financial relations between the Spanish State and these Communities will be governed by the traditional foral system in the form of the Basque Economic Agreement or the Navarra Economic Accord. The EU respects and accepts this state of affairs.

    Given that our cases are unique in nature and legally recognised as historic rights:

    • 1.Does the Commission see this proposal as a second legal regime for the Member States?
    • 2.Is the option of choosing between the two regimes – one of them being the regime laid down in national legislation and the other the regime agreed between European co-legislators and applicable once transposed into national law – being considered as a possibility?
    • 3.What is the state of play with this proposal?

    Submitted: 10.3.2025

    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: CEB and EIB sign agreement to facilitate co-financing and boost investment impact

    Source: European Investment Bank

    The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) deepened their long-standing partnership by signing a Mutual Reliance Agreement today to strengthen co-operation, facilitate co-financing and enhance the impact of public sector projects in countries of operation outside of the European Union.

    A key element of this approach is the mutual recognition of each institution’s procurement policies and procedures, thus reducing transaction costs and administrative burden. By streamlining project preparation and implementation, the agreement will allow both the CEB and the EIB to focus on delivering tangible benefits for their member countries.

    The agreement also aligns with the recommendations of the G20 Roadmap for Better, Bigger, and More Effective Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), which calls on MDBs to enhance country-level coordination and co-financing, including through mutual reliance agreements for greater development financing efficiency.

    “As Chair of the Heads of MDBs Group this year, the CEB is committed to fostering stronger collaboration among multilateral development banks to increase our collective impact. This CEB-EIB agreement is a concrete example of how MDBs are working together more effectively as a system, to deliver financing where it is most needed. By tightening our cooperation, we can accelerate support for sustainable development, social cohesion and economic resilience in our countries of operation to benefit the communities we serve,” said CEB Governor Carlo Monticelli.  

    EIB Group President Nadia Calviño said: “ It is more important than ever that we join forces in mobilising investment and supporting a strong European voice in the world. The agreement we signed today with the Council of Europe Development Bank reflects our strong partnership, financing projects that build stronger communities and improve lives across the European Union and beyond.”

    The CEB and EIB have a strong track record of co-financing projects that drive social and economic development across Europe. Recent examples of collaboration include financing vital water irrigation investments in Greece; jointly supporting a landmark cultural, social and educational hub in Cyprus; and investing in water and wastewater facilities in Serbia. Projects in the healthcare sector are also being jointly appraised in the Western Balkans region.  

    The agreement will enable both institutions to co-finance larger and more complex projects that no single lender could undertake alone, leveraging their collective financial strength and expertise to maximise the impact of strategic investments.

    Background information

    EIB   

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world.  

    About the CEB

    The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) is a multilateral development bank, whose unique mission is to promote social cohesion in its 43 member states across Europe. The CEB finances investment in social sectors, including education, health and affordable housing, with a focus on the needs of vulnerable people. Borrowers include governments, local and regional authorities, public and private banks, non-profit organisations and others. As a multilateral bank with an excellent credit rating, the CEB funds itself on the international capital markets. It approves projects according to strict social, environmental and governance criteria, and provides technical assistance. In addition, the CEB receives funds from donors to complement its activities.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The state of EU relations with Algeria following the arrest of Boualem Sansal – E-000089/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    EU-Algeria relations are framed by an Association Agreement[1] (2005) and Partnership Priorities[2] (2017), which have been extended. Recently, the Algerian authorities publicly expressed their intention to renegotiate the Association Agreement; however, no concrete proposals have yet been received by the EU.

    Through the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI), the EU finances projects in the field of governance and institutional capacity-building (including decentralisation), with a total budget of EUR 27 million.

    These ongoing projects are implemented in the country by European public bodies, development agencies and private companies.

    Additional projects focusing on protection of children in vulnerable situations, youth participation, women’s empowerment, and fight against sexual and gender-based violence are implemented by international organisations and civil society organisations.

    The EU has been closely monitoring the case of the Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal since his arrest and, in full coordination with the French authorities, has raised the matter with Algerian authorities in both Algiers and Brussels. The EU remains fully engaged on this issue.

    While the EU is committed to addressing human rights concerns, it believes that constructive dialogue is the most effective approach. It will continue to advocate for the respect of human rights, including freedom of expression, while maintaining engagement with Algeria.

    This will also be pursued through the institutionalised dialogue on human rights, notably within the Sub-Committee on Political Dialogue, Security and Human Rights, which was established under the EU-Algeria Association Agreement.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=CELEX%3A22005A1010%2801%29
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2017/03/13/eu-algeria/

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal alien guilty of stealing U.S. citizen’s identity

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A 42-year-old Mexican national has entered a guilty plea to using the identity of a U.S. citizen to fraudulently obtain a passport and identification, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Carlos Bedolla Sanchez, who illegally resided in Houston, admitted to making a false statement in application and use of passport and aggravated identity theft. 

    On May 19, 2022, Sanchez attempted to renew an expired passport he received in 2009 using the identity of a Puerto Rican-born U.S. citizen. As part of the identity theft, he provided the name, Social Security number, date of birth and birthplace on the passport applications and fraudulently certified he was a citizen or non-citizen national of the United States. 

    “Nearly everyone knows somebody who has had their identity stolen, or perhaps has even been a victim themselves,” said Ganjei. “The theft of identity for financial gain is bad enough, but stealing a person’s identity to make other fraudulent identification documents raises tremendous public safety and national security concerns. Let this case be a warning to those with ideas similar to Mr. Sanchez.”

    The investigation revealed Sanchez began using the victim’s identity in approximately March 2009 to obtain state driver’s licenses and other U.S. identification, including a passport. 

    U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison accepted the plea and set sentencing for June 3. At that time, Sanchez faces up to 10 years imprisonment for the false statement conviction as well as another two-year mandatory term of imprisonment for aggravated identity theft which must be served consecutively to any other prison term imposed. 

    He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing. 

    Department of State – Diplomatic Security Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Franklyn prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Long Island Business Owner Charged with Orchestrating $22 Million Health Care Fraud, Kickback and Money Laundering Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Took Advantage of Elderly Immigrants from the Former Soviet Union to Solicit Bribes from Health Care Providers and Defraud Medicare of Millions of Dollars

    Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, an indictment was unsealed charging Oleg Beretsky with conspiring to commit health care fraud, violating the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, conspiring to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute and money laundering conspiracy.  Beretsky was arrested this morning in Naples, Florida.  He will be arraigned in the Eastern District of New York at a later date.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York,  Naomi Gruchacz, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Michael Alfonso, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI New York), and Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, New York (IRS-CI), announced the arrest and charges.

    “As alleged, elderly individuals trusted the defendant to help them with their health care decisions.  Rather than look out for the interests of some of the most vulnerable members of our community, he sold access to those who trusted him to the highest bidder,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “The defendant compounded his crimes by encouraging doctors and health care providers who became part of his scheme to cheat Medicare by billing for work that was not needed or never performed. My Office is committed to protecting both patients and taxpayers from this terrible form of greed.”

    Mr. Durham expressed his appreciation to HSI’s Fort Myers, Florida, office and the New York City Police Department for their assistance on the case.

    “Violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute can divert much-needed federal health care program funds and corrupt the medical decision-making process,” stated HHS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Gruchacz.  “HHS-OIG works diligently with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations that owners and other providers engage in fraud schemes that prioritize greed over the provision of appropriate health care services to patients.”

    “The defendant and his co-conspirators are accused of pocketing more than $12 million while exploiting the unknowing, innocent public, including victims from immigrant communities,” stated HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Alfonso.  “As alleged, he took advantage of people with whom he had forged relationships — only to manipulate them into using certain doctors and services for his lucrative benefit.  HSI New York’s El Dorado Task Force is unmatched in its ability to draw from the strengths and equities of all partners involved, with one unified goal being the safety and security of Americans. I commend our partners, including HHS-OIG, IRS-CI, NYPD and HSI’s Fort Meyer’s personnel, for placing the wellbeing of the public above all else.”

    “Millions of dollars were stolen from the American benefits system, and Oleg Beretsky is charged with the crime.  He’s accused of taking advantage of a vulnerable population and funneling stolen Medicare money into his and his co-conspirators’ pockets. IRS-CI is charged with securing trust in the American financial system and actively investigates anyone looking to make a quick buck by stealing from the American public,” stated IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Chavis.

    As alleged in court filings, from January 2017 to April 2024, Beretsky and co-conspirators engaged in a health care fraud, kickback and money laundering scheme.  Beretsky was the owner of Obest, Inc., a company in Plainview, New York, that purported to provide health care professionals with billing, consulting and support services.  In reality, Obest’s principal business consisted of referring elderly Medicare patients to doctors and other health care professionals in exchange for kickbacks and bribes.  Many of these patients were immigrants from the former Soviet Union, who Beretsky identified through an employee of a nonprofit social service agency that provided housing and other services to senior citizens in Brooklyn and Queens. Beretsky cultivated relationships with many of these patients, which he used to gain control over decisions regarding their health care providers.  Beretsky then used that control to ensure that only doctors and other providers—including social workers, pain specialists and diagnostic companies—who were willing to pay him would have access to the patients.  On at least one occasion, Beretsky threatened a patient who wanted to continue seeing a provider who had stopped paying illegal kickbacks to the defendant.

    The fee charged by Beretsky was typically based either on how many patients Beretsky referred to the provider or how much Medicare reimbursed the provider for services purportedly rendered to the patients.  To generate more fees for himself and his co-conspirators, Beretsky often encouraged or directed providers to bill Medicare for patients who did not need the services those providers rendered, and in some cases, services that were not rendered at all.  In total, doctors and providers who participated in Beretsky’s scheme billed more than $22 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare.  Of that more than $22 million, Medicare paid more than $12.4 million in claims, which was distributed to Beretsky and his co-conspirators.  To hide the illegal source of funds Beretsky received from the conspiracy, Beretsky frequently directed co-conspirators to pay his relatives in cash and transferred money to multiple accounts held in the names of his family members.

    The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted of the charges, Beretsky faces up to up to 20 years in prison on the money laundering conspiracy count; up to 10 years each on the health care fraud conspiracy and kickback counts; and up to five years on the kickback conspiracy count.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section.  Assistant United States  Attorney Joshua B. Dugan is in charge of the prosecution with the assistance of Paralegal Specialists Liam McNett and Timothy Migliaro.

    The Defendant:

    OLEG BERETSKY
    Age:  67
    Naples, Florida

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-91 (RPK)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal alien indicted in multi-year smuggling conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAREDO, Texas – A 26-year-old Mexican national illegally residing in Laredo has been charged with conspiracy to smuggle and harbor illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Originally charged by criminal complaint, Giovana Lozano Hernandez is expected to appear for her arraignment before a U.S. magistrate judge in the near future.

    The charges allege she was an alien smuggler in an ongoing conspiracy. Law enforcement took her into custody Feb. 19.

    Hernandez allegedly used multiple cellular devices to facilitate the smuggling conspiracy. One such failed event allegedly occurred Oct. 28, 2024. Authorities identified numerous digital images of paper ledgers and illegal aliens in relation to that event on the devices, according to the charges. There were also numerous voice messages allegedly exchanged between Hernandez and coconspirators detailing the human smuggling activity including numerous illegal aliens who had already been transported and housed for whom there needed to be financial accountability. Law enforcement also found video messages depicting the transportation of illegal aliens, according to the allegations.

    If convicted, Hernandez faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 maximum possible fine on each of the two counts in the indictment.  

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, Border Patrol and Texas Department of Public Safety conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Laredo Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Scott Bowling is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Principals of Aerospace Start-Up Charged with Fraud and Tax Crimes

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    An indictment was unsealed today charging five former principals of Theia Group Inc., a Washington, D.C.-based aerospace start-up company, with conspiracy and fraud.

    According to the indictment, Erlend Olson, John Gallagher, Stephen Buscher, Joseph Fargnoli, and Jamil Swati held various executive positions at the company, including chief executive officer, executive vice president, chief financial officer, chief technology officer, and head of strategic investment, respectively. They allegedly perpetrated a multi-year scheme to defraud investors and lenders out of $250 million, and Olson evaded more than $3.9 million in personal federal income taxes.

    According to the indictment, Theia planned to launch 112 satellites starting in 2022 at a cost of $10 billion to $15 billion. Theia’s principals allegedly originally planned to raise the requisite funds from various nation-states by promising perpetual data and analytics for an upfront payment of $2 billion. However, from Theia’s founding in 2015 through its placement into receivership in 2021, Theia was allegedly unsuccessful in obtaining any funding except for approximately $250 million in loans and investments received from institutional and individual investors and lenders. To secure the funding, Olson, Gallagher, Buscher, Fargnoli, and Swati’s fraud scheme allegedly included making materially false statements about revenue from non-existent government contracts, providing multiple false financial statements, including a fake $6 billion escrow account statement, and making false representations about Theia’s technical capabilities.

    The indictment further alleges that the IRS assessed over a million dollars in taxes, penalties, and interest against Olson for tax years 2009 through 2011, which Olson acknowledged in 2018. Instead of paying the outstanding debt to the IRS, which he acknowledged he owed, Olson allegedly directed his compensation from Theia to a nominee entity. Olson then allegedly used the nominee entity to pay personal expenses such as a private jet membership, $64,500 annual rent payments for his home, a new Land Rover, personal debts, and a pair of condominiums in Las Vegas. Olson now allegedly owes $1.6 million to the IRS related to those years. In addition, Olson allegedly also used the nominee entity to conceal his income from the IRS for 2018 through 2020.

    Olson, Gallagher, Buscher, Fargnoli, and Swati are each charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud for the overall scheme, and additionally charged with multiple wire or mail fraud counts arising from their various misrepresentations to investors. Olson is also charged with four counts of attempted tax evasion.

    If convicted, they each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiracy and for each wire fraud or mail fraud count. Olson would face a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each tax evasion count. Each would also face a period of supervised release, restitution, monetary penalties, and forfeiture. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Interim U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. for the District of Columbia made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the FDIC Office of Inspector General are investigating the case.

    Senior Litigation Counsel Nanette Davis and Trial Attorney Alexis Hughes of the Tax Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Ross and Joshua Gold for the District of Columbia are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Principals of Aerospace Start-Up Charged with Fraud and Tax Crimes

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    An indictment was unsealed today charging five former principals of Theia Group Inc., a Washington, D.C.-based aerospace start-up company, with conspiracy and fraud.

    According to the indictment, Erlend Olson, John Gallagher, Stephen Buscher, Joseph Fargnoli, and Jamil Swati held various executive positions at the company, including chief executive officer, executive vice president, chief financial officer, chief technology officer, and head of strategic investment, respectively. They allegedly perpetrated a multi-year scheme to defraud investors and lenders out of $250 million, and Olson evaded more than $3.9 million in personal federal income taxes.

    According to the indictment, Theia planned to launch 112 satellites starting in 2022 at a cost of $10 billion to $15 billion. Theia’s principals allegedly originally planned to raise the requisite funds from various nation-states by promising perpetual data and analytics for an upfront payment of $2 billion. However, from Theia’s founding in 2015 through its placement into receivership in 2021, Theia was allegedly unsuccessful in obtaining any funding except for approximately $250 million in loans and investments received from institutional and individual investors and lenders. To secure the funding, Olson, Gallagher, Buscher, Fargnoli, and Swati’s fraud scheme allegedly included making materially false statements about revenue from non-existent government contracts, providing multiple false financial statements, including a fake $6 billion escrow account statement, and making false representations about Theia’s technical capabilities.

    The indictment further alleges that the IRS assessed over a million dollars in taxes, penalties, and interest against Olson for tax years 2009 through 2011, which Olson acknowledged in 2018. Instead of paying the outstanding debt to the IRS, which he acknowledged he owed, Olson allegedly directed his compensation from Theia to a nominee entity. Olson then allegedly used the nominee entity to pay personal expenses such as a private jet membership, $64,500 annual rent payments for his home, a new Land Rover, personal debts, and a pair of condominiums in Las Vegas. Olson now allegedly owes $1.6 million to the IRS related to those years. In addition, Olson allegedly also used the nominee entity to conceal his income from the IRS for 2018 through 2020.

    Olson, Gallagher, Buscher, Fargnoli, and Swati are each charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud for the overall scheme, and additionally charged with multiple wire or mail fraud counts arising from their various misrepresentations to investors. Olson is also charged with four counts of attempted tax evasion.

    If convicted, they each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiracy and for each wire fraud or mail fraud count. Olson would face a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each tax evasion count. Each would also face a period of supervised release, restitution, monetary penalties, and forfeiture. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Interim U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. for the District of Columbia made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the FDIC Office of Inspector General are investigating the case.

    Senior Litigation Counsel Nanette Davis and Trial Attorney Alexis Hughes of the Tax Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Ross and Joshua Gold for the District of Columbia are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Climate Tech Companies Adopt NVIDIA Earth-2 for High-Resolution, Energy-Efficient, More Accurate Weather Predictions and Disaster Preparedness

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GTC — NVIDIA today announced the NVIDIA Omniverse Blueprint for Earth-2 weather analytics to accelerate the development of more accurate weather forecasting solutions.

    Climate-related weather events have had a $2 trillion impact on the global economy over the last decade. The new Omniverse Blueprint equips users with the latest technologies to help global organizations improve risk management and disaster preparedness.

    The NVIDIA Omniverse Blueprint for Earth-2 weather analytics offers reference workflows — including NVIDIA GPU acceleration libraries, a physics-AI framework, development tools and microservices — to help enterprises go from prototyping to production with weather forecast models.

    Easy-to-deploy NVIDIA NIM™ microservices for NVIDIA Earth-2 are also part of the blueprint, including CorrDiff for downscaling and FourCastNet for predicting global atmospheric dynamics of various weather and climate variables. These are already being used by weather technology companies, researchers and government agencies to derive insights and mitigate risk from extreme weather events.

    “We’re seeing more extreme weather events and natural disasters than ever, threatening lives and property,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. “The NVIDIA Omniverse Blueprint for Earth-2 will help industries around the world prepare for — and mitigate — climate change and weather-related disasters.”

    Ecosystem Support
    Industry-leading climate tech companies including AI company G42, JBA Risk Management, Spire and others are using the blueprint to develop unique AI-augmented solutions.

    When combined with proprietary enterprise data in the $20 billion climate tech industry, the NVIDIA Earth-2 platform helps developers build solutions that deliver warnings and updated forecasts in seconds rather than minutes or hours with traditional CPU-driven modeling.

    G42 is integrating various components of the Omniverse Blueprint with its own AI-driven forecasting models for Earth-2 to provide the UAE’s National Center of Meteorology with AI technologies for advanced weather forecasting and disaster management.

    “G42 is advancing AI-powered forecasting to help governments and enterprises strengthen resilience against extreme weather in a rapidly changing world,” said Andrew Jackson, CEO of Inception, a G42 company. “Using high-resolution weather and climate modeling, we are transforming how organizations anticipate and respond to severe weather conditions with precision and speed. Building on NVIDIA’s CorrDiff model, we have developed a custom AI-driven system that downscales coarse weather data into hyper-local forecasts, enabling faster predictions at an unprecedented scale. Combined with the Earth-2 Blueprint, this technology equips decision-makers with actionable intelligence to protect communities, safeguard infrastructure and plan for a more resilient future.”

    Spire Global used AI components from the blueprint as reference to develop new AI products that integrate its proprietary satellite data and deliver medium-range and sub-seasonal forecasts out to 45 days. Powered by NVIDIA GPUs and the Omniverse Blueprint for Earth-2, Spire’s models run 1,000x faster than traditional physics-based models, enabling large ensemble forecasts that capture the full range of possible weather outcomes.

    In addition to the Central Weather Administration of Taiwan and The Weather Company, other companies adopting or exploring Earth-2 include 3D mapping company Ecopia, spatial analytics company ESRI, green energy company GCL Power, flood risk management company JBA Risk Management, aerospace company OroraTech, and Tomorrow.io, a leading resilience platform powered by proprietary space data and weather intelligence.

    Groundbreaking Generative AI for Climate Tech
    The Earth-2 platform offers tools, microservices and an array of state-of-the-art AI weather models for visualizing and simulating the globe.

    CorrDiff, part of the Omniverse Blueprint, is available as an NVIDIA NIM microservice. Compared with CPUs, it can be 500x faster and 10,000x more energy-efficient in delivering high-resolution numerical weather predictions.

    The Omniverse Blueprint for Earth-2 allows independent software vendors to develop and deploy AI-augmented solutions and use observational data to make their solutions faster and more accurate.

    Esri, a leader in geospatial technology, is collaborating with NVIDIA to connect its ArcGIS platform to Earth-2 through the blueprint. OroraTech is exploring connecting its data platform to the Omniverse Blueprint for Earth-2.

    Tomorrow.io contributed its near-real-time proprietary satellite data to help create an NVIDIA digital twin of Earth for next-generation AI model training, inference and reinforcement.

    A key component of the new blueprint is NVIDIA Omniverse™, a platform for developing OpenUSD-based 3D workflows and applications. The Omniverse Blueprint for Earth-2 showcases how developers can use Omniverse software development kits and microservices to build NVIDIA RTX™-powered visualization pipelines for rendering geospatial and weather data.

    NVIDIA DGX Cloud-Powered Compute
    The Omniverse Blueprint for Earth-2 taps into the NVIDIA DGX™ Cloud platform to demonstrate full-stack acceleration for AI-augmented weather forecasting. Running on NVIDIA DGX GB200, NVIDIA HGX™ B200 and NVIDIA OVX™ supercomputers, the blueprint provides a path to simulating and visualizing the global climate simulations at exceptional speed and scale.

    Learn more by watching the NVIDIA GTC keynote and register for sessions from NVIDIA and industry leaders at the show, which runs through March 21.

    About NVIDIA
    NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) is the world leader in accelerated computing.

    For further information, contact:
    Cliff Edwards
    Enterprise Communications
    NVIDIA Corporation
    +1-415-699-2755
    cliffe@nvidia.com

    Certain statements in this press release including, but not limited to, statements as to: the benefits, impact, availability, and performance of NVIDIA’s products, services, and technologies; third parties adopting NVIDIA’s products and technologies and the benefits and impact thereof; and the NVIDIA Omniverse Blueprint for Earth-2 helping industries around the world prepare for — and mitigate — climate change and weather-related disasters are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause results to be materially different than expectations. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include: global economic conditions; our reliance on third parties to manufacture, assemble, package and test our products; the impact of technological development and competition; development of new products and technologies or enhancements to our existing product and technologies; market acceptance of our products or our partners’ products; design, manufacturing or software defects; changes in consumer preferences or demands; changes in industry standards and interfaces; unexpected loss of performance of our products or technologies when integrated into systems; as well as other factors detailed from time to time in the most recent reports NVIDIA files with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, including, but not limited to, its annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Copies of reports filed with the SEC are posted on the company’s website and are available from NVIDIA without charge. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and speak only as of the date hereof, and, except as required by law, NVIDIA disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances.

    Many of the products and features described herein remain in various stages and will be offered on a when-and-if-available basis. The statements above are not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as a commitment, promise, or legal obligation, and the development, release, and timing of any features or functionalities described for our products is subject to change and remains at the sole discretion of NVIDIA. NVIDIA will have no liability for failure to deliver or delay in the delivery of any of the products, features or functions set forth herein.

    © 2025 NVIDIA Corporation. All rights reserved. NVIDIA, the NVIDIA logo, NVIDIA NIM, NVIDIA Omniverse, NVIDIA OVX, NVIDIA DGX, NVIDIA HGX and NVIDIA RTX are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of NVIDIA Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. Other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability and specifications are subject to change without notice.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8b94536e-e49f-4a2c-a364-07c68495e476

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cortez Masto Joins Colleagues in Demanding Trump Administration Reverse Major Cuts to Food Assistance for Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) joined Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) and 29 of their colleagues in demanding the Department of Agriculture reverse its cancellation of food purchase programs across the United States, warning of the harmful impacts this move will have on both families and American farmers. Nevada utilizes these federal funds to support the state’s food bank network and school nutrition programs by purchasing local foods from farmers and producers in Nevada, benefiting students, families, and the local economy.
    “We write to express serious concerns regarding the cancellation of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs supporting local and regional food purchases providing assistance to those in need,” wrote the Senators. “These successful programs, the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS), allow states, territories, and Tribes to purchase local foods from nearby farmers and ranchers to be used for emergency food providers, schools, and child care centers.”
    “At a time when food insecurity remains high, providing affordable, fresh food to food banks and families while supporting American farmers is critical,” they continued. “We have grave concerns that the cancellation of LFPA and LFS poses extreme harm to producers and communities in every state across the country.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto have been vocal opponents of the Trump Administration’s efforts to cut critical programs Nevadans rely on all while trying to give further tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy. The Senators have pushed multiple Departments under the Trump Administration for detailed, public information regarding the impacts of President Trump’s federal funding freeze, hiring freeze, and terminations on Nevada – including to the Department of the Interior, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Nuclear Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Agriculture, and the General Services Administration. Earlier this year, Rosen and Cortez Masto urged the Department of the Interior to immediately cease its freeze of Inflation Reduction Act funding for the Lower Colorado River System Conservation and Efficiency Program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, DeLauro, Baldwin Demand Detailed Answers on Trump Admin’s Sweeping Mass Firings at Department of Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Top appropriators press McMahon on how the Department will carry out requirements of federal law and its critical responsibilities despite far-reaching, illegal firings of approximately 50% of staff

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee and the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Subcommittee, and Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Subcommittee, sent a letter to the Department of Education (ED) demanding detailed answers about the mass firings it has conducted and how it is carrying out requirements of federal law and its critical responsibilities despite the sweeping reductions in force.

    “We write to request your immediate response to questions we have raised about actions taken by the Department of Education and additional questions related to the massive reduction in force announced on March 11,” write the lawmakers. Citing the wide scope of responsibilities the Department is required by bipartisan laws to undertake to help students learn and thrive, the top appropriators in the Senate and House add: “Recent actions of the Department appear to undermine the Department’s obligation under these laws.”

    “The staff at the Department provide real services that impact the daily lives of students and their families from enforcing students’ civil rights and providing transparent information on how our schools are doing to processing critical aid such as Pell Grants to helping low-income students all over our nation attend college and further their careers,” Murray, DeLauro, and Baldwin write. “Firing the people that ensure states, school districts, and institutions of higher education live up to their legal obligations is neither efficient nor accountable.”

    In the letter, the lawmakers note that the Department’s staffing levels have largely remained flat in recent years despite significant growth in the programs it administers and the responsibilities it carries out. They write that the mass layoffs and other detrimental actions risk major reductions in support for and oversight of our nation’s K-12 schools and institutions of higher education and threaten vital support for students with disabilities, access to Pell Grants and other financial aid, oversight of student loan servicers, scrutiny of for-profit colleges, and more.

    The letter follows an earlier March 6 letter the lawmakers sent alongside colleagues demanding answers about the chaotic, harmful actions taken by ED since January—which the Department has yet to respond to.

    “Given the profound change to staff, budgets, and agency operations promised by this administration, it is critical that we receive additional information on these staffing reductions and changes to agency operations,” conclude Murray, DeLauro, and Baldwin before posing a series of detailed questions. “The President’s disregard for appropriations and other laws and the need for stability and productivity in government creates an imperative for the Department to provide accurate, timely responses on its use and planned use of taxpayer resources provided by the laws passed by Congress.”

    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:

    The Honorable Linda McMahon Secretary U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC  20202 Dr. Matthew Soldner Acting Director Institute of Education Sciences 550 12th Street, SW Washington, DC 20024

    Dear Secretary McMahon and Acting Director Soldner:

    We write to request your immediate response to questions we have raised about actions taken by the Department of Education (“the Department”) and additional questions related to the massive reduction in force announced on March 11, 2025.  We believe the Department plays a critical role in fulfilling the purpose of our Constitution to “promote the general welfare of the United States” and strongly support the purposes Congress established for the Department to ensure equal access to educational opportunity, including by administering education programs and carrying out important functions established in law and funded each year by Congress.  However, recent actions of the Department appear to undermine the Department’s obligation under these laws, despite your statement on March 11th that “Today’s reduction in force reflects the Department of Education’s commitment to ensuring efficiency, accountability, and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: students, parents and teachers.”[1]

    According to the Department’s most recent Congressional justifications and prior to this administration’s personnel actions, staffing levels at the Department were largely unchanged from 2016 despite the fact that the discretionary budget for the Department’s programs increased by 16.5 percent and the federal student loan portfolio grew by more than 30 percent between 2016 and 2024.[2] Further, the Department has the smallest staff of the 15 cabinet agencies despite representing the government’s third largest discretionary budget after the Department of Defense and the Department of Health and Human Services.[3] The Department also said that it had been tasked with “addressing some of the greatest challenges facing public education today: academic acceleration, students’ well-being and mental health, chronic absenteeism, school safety, and emerging and changing pathways from high school to college and career,” and, “modernizing and improving the entire student aid process to better help students and families, as well as implementing major legislation, including the FAFSA Simplification Act and FUTURE Act.”[4] The staff at the Department provide real services that impact the daily lives of students and their families from enforcing students’ civil rights and providing transparent information on how our schools are doing to processing critical aid such as Pell Grants to helping low-income students all over our nation attend college and further their careers. Firing the people that ensure states, school districts, and institutions of higher education live up to their legal obligations is neither efficient nor accountable.

    We are very concerned that the Department’s staffing reductions will result in significant reductions in the support and oversight of critical Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) requirements for state and local educational agencies (SEAs/LEAs) to provide school report cards on the achievement of students, qualifications of teachers, and per-pupil spending in understandable and uniform formats. This is critical information parents, families, and communities need to have about their public schools and public school options that might be available.  The ESEA also requires states to use a portion of Title I-A for grants to implement school support and improvement activities in the lowest performing schools and in schools with historically underserved student subgroups performing significantly lower than other subgroups of students, including through evidence-based interventions.  However, the Department’s recent elimination of federally supported assistance used by SEAs and LEAs to effectively implement these requirements and limited state capacity will likely prevent effective implementation in many states and schools .[5][6][7][8] When combined with these massive staffing reductions, we are concerned that the Department’s ability to monitor or support implementation of the law will be nearly non-existent, leaving students and families with the long-term consequences for the Department’s short-sighted actions. 

    We are concerned that students with disabilities will also be harmed by the Department’s actions.  The Department is required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to monitor and support effective implementation of IDEA requirements.  This includes the evaluation of results and outcomes for infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities through the State Performance Plan and Annual Performance Report processes intended to improve results and outcomes for more than seven million children with disabilities.[9] It is not clear to us how effective oversight will be conducted at the significantly lower staffing levels created by the Department’s recent actions.

    The Department is also required by law to operate federal student aid programs and conduct oversight and enforcement of colleges and universities to ensure access to postsecondary education for our nation’s students and to help make college more affordable for American families.[10] Some of these responsibilities include ensuring students can apply for Pell grants and other financial aid to go to college, ensuring colleges and universities have the information and resources they need to disburse such aid to students, ensuring colleges and universities protect students’ civil rights, certifying universities compliance with administrative and fiscal rules to ensure low-quality colleges and universities cannot participate in Title IV aid programs, overseeing and approving accreditors, and protecting students and taxpayers from fraudulent universities that leave students with worthless degrees and debt. The vast reduction in force across the office of Federal Student Aid (FSA), the Office of General Counsel (OGC), and other offices puts all of this work in jeopardy.

    However, your stated commitment to ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most rings hollow to us.  Our actions should absolutely start with supporting students, just as we have directed through our federal education laws. The guiding purpose is to direct federal resources so all students have access to a high-quality education and schools close achievement gaps.  For example, our laws include maintenance of effort requirements that generally prohibit SEAs and LEAs from reducing their support for education after receiving federal funds and only use federal funds to supplement, not supplant other funds.[11] It’s the Department’s statutorily required job to enforce these responsibilities.[12][13]  Moreover, ESEA requires school districts receiving Title I-A funds to reserve a sufficient amount of these funds to identify and meet the needs of students experiencing homelessness. The Department has taken important steps in recent years to increase oversight of this provision and planned additional monitoring and technical assistance in fiscal year (FY) 2025.[14]  Without the effective oversight and support of Department staff, we are concerned that students may not benefit from the additional federal resources Congress requires to be made available to identify and meet their needs.

    The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces the nation’s civil rights laws in federally-funded education programs.  Disability discrimination is typically the most frequent complaint received by OCR.[15] While OCR received the highest number of complaints in its history last year—and nearly three times the level in 2009—its staffing declined from 629 to 588 during this period.[16]  Reporting also indicates that a change in priorities at OCR since January 20, 2025, has stalled work on investigations of disability complaints, preventing timely consideration of such complaints and appropriate remedies.[17]  We are greatly concerned that the Department’s personnel actions will only add to delays in remedies that would provide students with disabilities the access to free appropriate education in the least restrict environment as required by federal law.

    Given the profound change to staff, budgets, and agency operations promised by this administration, it is critical that we receive additional information on these staffing reductions and changes to agency operations.[18] The President’s disregard for appropriations and other laws and the need for stability and productivity in government creates an imperative for the Department to provide accurate, timely responses on its use and planned use of taxpayer resources provided by the laws passed by Congress. Finally, we expect all of the questions below are ones the Department itself would have already considered before making significant staffing reductions. We request you provide written answers to the following questions as soon as possible, but not later than, March 21, 2025:

    1. For each program office[19] and in total by appropriation, please provide the number of staff terminated as a result of the March 11, 2025 reduction in force.
      1. What are total expected savings in salaries and benefits in FY2025? 
      2. What share of the Department’s FY2024 budget do these savings represent?
      3. How many remaining staff at the Department were assigned additional duties as a result of staffing reductions since January 20, 2025?
      4. What is the average number of new duties assigned to remaining staff?
      5. Please provide a complete list of office teams terminated as a result of the March 11, 2025 staffing reductions and other staffing reductions and the specific responsibilities of those terminated teams transferred to other office teams.
    1. Please explain how the reduction in force announced on March 11, 2025 reflects a commitment to each of the following as claimed in Secretary McMahon’s statement accompanying the announcement:
      1. How will these staff reductions ensure “that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents, and teachers”?  Please provide three examples and the analysis supporting the expected changes.      
      2. How do these reductions reflect the Department’s “commitment to… accountability”?  Please provide three examples and the analysis supporting the expected changes.
      3. How do these reductions reflect the Department’s “commitment to efficiency”?  Please provide three examples and the analysis supporting the expected changes.  Further, please explain how the Department’s decisions to cancel evaluation contracts that help us understand what is working and terminate Department grants and contracts that support the development and implementation of evidence-based solutions to challenges identified by state and local education leaders promotes efficiency. 
    1. For the Office for Civil Rights, please provide the number of investigative staff on board after all of the Department’s personnel actions taken since January 20, 2025, including the March 11, 2025 reduction.
      1. Please provide the number of such staff in total and for each region for the immediately preceding pay period to the date including January 20, 2025.
      2. Please provide the average caseload for such staff for the immediately preceding pay period to the date including January 20, 2025 and after all of the Department’s personnel actions taken since January 20, 2025, including the March 11, 2025 reductions.
      3. Please provide the number of complaints pending investigation as of March 11, 2025.
      4. Please provide the number of resolution agreements requiring monitoring for implementation of corrective actions as of March 11, 2025 and September 30, 2024.  What is the average caseload for such work as of September 30, 2024 and after implementation of staffing reductions?    
      5. Please describe any changes planned to OCR’s current Case Processing Manual and explain how each change would improve civil right protections for students attending federally-funded educational institutions.
      6. Please describe any organizational changes planned and explain how each change would improve civil right protections for students attending federally-funded educational institutions. 
    1. In FY2024, the Department was directed to increase its monitoring efforts in order to ensure compliance with the ESEA. However, it appears, as of today, the Department has only completed three consolidated monitoring reports conducted in FY2024 and none in FY2025.[20]
      1. How many ESEA consolidated monitoring visits did the Department complete in FY2024?  When can we expect to see those consolidated monitoring reports made public in order to understand compliance with the law?
      2. How many ESEA consolidated monitoring visits is the Department conducting in FY2025?  When can we expect to see those consolidated monitoring reports made public in order to understand compliance with the law?
      3. How many ESEA consolidated monitoring visits is the Department planning to conduct in FY2026?  When can we expect to see those consolidated monitoring reports made public in order to understand compliance with the law?
      4. How many ESEA targeted monitoring visits is the Department conducting in FY2025?  On what specific requirements of ESEA is the Department conducting this monitoring, and in how many states?  If no such monitoring is planned, please explain why the Department is not conducting targeting monitoring necessary to understand compliance with the law?
      5. How many ESEA targeted monitoring visits is the Department planning to conduct in FY2026? On what specific requirements of ESEA is the Department planning to conduct this monitoring, and in how many states?  If no such monitoring is planned, please explain why the Department is not conducting targeting monitoring necessary to understand compliance with the law?
      6. Please update the monitoring findings in the August 29, 2024 Report to Congress on school improvement[21] to include the status of implementation of each of the actions required and recommendations in the report. 
    1. For the last five years, the Department has conducted an annual review in January of each state’s website to check whether the state has posted state and local report cards, reviewed a subset of ESEA requirements, and followed up with states on noncompliance with requirements. This information is essential to help parents and families understand the resources available at each school, the quality of the school’s educator workforce, and performance of their school.
      1. Has the Department completed this review of each state’s website this year as it has for each of the past five years?  If not, why not?  If so, which subset of requirements was the focus of its review?
      2. How many states has the Department identified the need for corrective actions and engaged states on its findings and plans to remedy noncompliance?   If none, please explain why.
      3. What is the expected timeline for redress of each instance of noncompliance?
    1. The reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act requires states that receive ESEA Title I funding to participate in state National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) assessments in reading and mathematics at grades 4 and 8 every two years.  This is important information for parents, families, state and local education policymakers, and federal policymakers on performance of students. In fact, has been cited by this administration as it argues the low NAEP test results are a result of Democrats diverting attention from American students.[22]
    1. Please provide copies of all documents, electronic communications, records, and meeting notes of Department staff from January 20, 2025 through the date of this letter that relate to NAEP.
    2. Please provide an assurance that none of the Department’s actions since January 20, 2025 were inconsistent with the requirements of National Assessment of Educational Progress Authorization Act.
    3. Please provide an assurance that no federal funds will be used in contravention of the requirements of the National Assessment of Educational Progress Authorization Act.
    4. Please provide an assurance that none of the Department’s actions since January 20, 2025 will alter the validity or reliability of NAEP assessments on the currently approved schedule, including the national assessment required under section 303 of the National Assessment of Educational Progress Authorization Act.
    5. Please explain the unprecedented decision made earlier this year to cancel the scheduled long-term trend assessment outside of a period of a national emergency.
    1. The Department has critical oversight, support, and technical assistance obligations under the IDEA.
      1. Please provide the number of staff on-board whose job includes responsibilities for Results Driven Accountability activities as of the pay period including January 1, 2025 and the number of such staff upon full implementation of the Department’s March 11, 2025 staffing reductions.
      2. Please identify the timeline for completion of the 2025 and 2026 determinations under IDEA.
    1. The Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018 ushered in critical changes about the effective use of data and timely development and use of relevant evidence in federal policymaking.  We have consistently supported the Department’s work, which has been recognized for its progress and achievement in this area.[23]
      1. Please provide the number of staff in the Grants Policy Office of the Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development as of September 30, 2024 and after the staffing reductions announced on March 11, 2025.  Please describe the specific actions supported by the revised staffing level to undertake work required to advance evidence based policy making, the inclusion of priorities for evidence in discretionary grant programs, support for the use of evidence in formula grant programs, and building of staff capacity to support a culture of evidence at the Department.
      2. Please identify any changes to the staffing, policies, and work of the Evidence Leadership Group as compared to September 30, 2024.  Please share analysis, as applicable, related to the Department’s belief that these changes will better promote the development and use of evidence in the Department’s policymaking and formula and discretionary grant programs.
    1. In 2020, Congress passed the FAFSA Simplification Act to modernize and streamline the FAFSA to make it easier for students and their families to apply for federal financial aid to attend postsecondary education. Initial implementation of the law was flawed and led to a chaotic launch of the 2024-2025 FAFSA. Due to a lot of hard work by dedicated Department staff, the roll out of the 2025-2026 FAFSA went more smoothly, yet more remains to be done to ensure the effective implementation of the FAFSA Simplification Act and the FUTURE Act. Your staff indicated that the March 11th reduction in force would not impact the ability of students to apply for financial aid,[24] but in reality, it took very little time to show how cuts to Department staff could hurt the functionality of the FAFSA. On March 12th, the FAFSA form had an unscheduled outage of approximately five hours and fired staff had limited access to their computers or phones to help get FAFSA back online.[25] The Department stated the cause of the outage was ”Planned Maintenance,” but when the entire team responsible for systems supporting the FAFSA form[26] was subject to the reduction in force, it calls into question whether that is an accurate representation of what happened to the FAFSA on March 12. Additionally, former Department staff have noted that among those fired on March 11th was a team that worked on FAFSA completion workshops, among other responsibilities, also calling into question whether critical work to boost FAFSA completion rates under the previous administration will continue.[27]
      1. Please describe how the staff reductions will impact the ability of students to apply for financial aid or limit the full functionality of the FAFSA form, including FAFSA processing, school receipt of processed FAFSAs, processing of paper FAFSAs, and FAFSA correction functionality for applicants, institutions of higher education, and states.
      2. Given the substantial cuts to Department staff who manage vendors that implement critical parts of the FAFSA, please describe how remaining Department staff will adequately manage, coordinate across, and oversee these vendors so that functionality for the FAFSA and its data center is maintained.
      3. Please describe how the Department will continue developing the 2026-2027 FAFSA and ensure an October 1st launch as required by Congress.
      4. Please describe how the Department will engage in communication efforts with students and their families to ensure they know federal financial aid is available to them and the FAFSA form is available to fill out.
      5. Please describe how you will continue to report on important FAFSA submission and completion data and maintain monthly briefings for Congress.
      6. Given the large cuts to FSA in this week’s reduction in force, please provide a staffing plan that details which staff will be reassigned to cover the work of those employees who are departing and involved in implementation of the FAFSA to ensure that student aid will continue to be disbursed without interruption.
      7. Please describe how any changes in availability of the call center, including weekend and evening hours, will be sufficient to answer questions from FAFSA applicants and students with questions about their student loans.
      8. Please describe how the Department will meet its statutory requirements to support applicants in the most common languages spoken in the United States?
    1. In FY24, FSA oversaw the disbursement of more than $120 billion in federal financial aid to more than 9 million students across the country and managed $1.6 trillion in student loans held by approximately 45 million borrowers.[28] To help implement the FAFSA and provide student loan services, the Department contracts with vendors and is responsible for ensuring the quality of the work those contractors provide.
      1. According to public reporting, many of the Department staff who oversee these contractors were terminated through the reduction in force.[29] How does the Department plan to oversee the vendors and contractors who are providing these services to student borrowers?
      2. Please describe how the Department will work to uphold strong loan servicing standards across the agency’s vendors.
      3. Reports also indicate that Department staff have met with staff from the Treasury Department to discuss moving the student loan portfolio to the Treasury Department,[30] a change that only Congress can make.[31] Please describe organizational changes being contemplated as they relate to the student loan portfolio and how they comply with current statutory requirements.
    1. Reports indicate that the Ombudsman Group, which helps resolve discrepancies with student loans, helps students identify the right loan repayment option for them, and helps settle disputes between student loan borrowers and their servicers, among other issues,[32]  was deeply affected by the March 11th reduction in force.[33] In the last year, over 130,000 complaints[34] were submitted to FSA and the Student Loan Ombudsman.
      1. What are the Department’s plans to ensure that student loan borrowers are still able to get the support they need when with the wide variety of issues the Ombudsman Group handled?
      2. Will the Department maintain the online portal for student borrowers to submit complaints regarding their student loans and if so, which office at the Department will be tasked with responding to those complaints?
    1. The Borrower Defense to Repayment unit also appears to have been severely impacted by the March 11th reduction in force.[35] As you know, these Department staff review student loan relief applications from student borrowers who were misled or defrauded by the school. Borrower Defense to Repayment is a protection that has been authorized by Congress in the Higher Education Act[36] and provides student borrowers relief from their federal student loans that were taken out under fraudulent, misleading, or illegal acts of their schools. As of 2023, approximately 770,000 student borrowers applied for Borrower Defense to Repayment.[37]
      1. What is the Department’s plan to ensure that it will carry out the statutory requirement to adjudicate the current remaining Borrower Defense to Repayment claims?
      2. With such severe cuts to the people who worked in the Borrower Defense to Repayment unit, please describe how the Department will ensure that current and future student borrowers will be able to submit claims and have them adjudicated in a timely fashion going forward.
      3. What proportion of the remaining staff will be responsible for fulfilling the Sweet settlement, and how will the Department ensure borrowers not included in the settlement are also able to file claims and have them resolved accordingly?
    1. The Higher Education Act requires the Department to carry out numerous oversight responsibilities over the thousands of institutions of higher education that seek to participate in the Title IV program, including eligibility and certification requirements, program reviews, and enforcement of program participation agreements. These requirements help ensure institutions of higher education are on sound financial footing and abide by all requirements of Title IV.
      1. Please describe how the Department will continue to carry out the work of the School Eligibility and Oversight Service Group (SEOSG), including ensuring institutions of higher education can submit initial and updated applications, recertifications, letters of credit, and documents related to program reviews.
      2. Please describe how the reductions in the SEOSG will impact the caseloads of remaining staff at the Department conducting this important oversight work and not lead to increased waste, fraud, and abuse in the Title IV program.
      3. How many program reviews does the Department estimate remaining staff will be able to conduct in FY2025, given the staffing cuts?
    1. For the Office of Institutions of Higher Education Oversight & Enforcement, please provide the number of staff on board after all of the Department’s personnel actions taken since January 20, 2025, including the March 11, 2025 reduction.
      1. Please provide the number of such staff in total and for each work unit under the Office of Enforcement and the Office of Partner Participation and Oversight for the immediately preceding pay period to the date including January 20, 2025.
      2. Please describe any changes planned to investigations and oversight responsibilities under the Investigations Group, the Administrative Actions and Appeals Service Group, and the Resolutions and Referral Management Group, and explain how each change would protect students and taxpayers from misconduct by institutions.
    1. The Office of Student Service is responsible for administering the TRIO, GEAR UP, and other discretionary grant programs. TRIO and GEAR UP implementation takes a significant amount of work due to the large number of grantees nationwide.
      1. Please provide the number of staff on board for the Office of Student Service after all of the Department’s personnel actions taken since January 20, 2025, including the March 11, 2025 reduction.  
      2. Please provide the number of such staff in total and for each work unit under the Office of Student Service for the immediately preceding pay period to the date including January 20, 2025.
    1. The Department enforces an ESEA requirement that must be met by a State, SEA, or LEA that receives ESEA funds to prevent an SEA, LEA, school, or individual acting on behalf of one of those entities from assisting an employee, contractor, or agent who has engaged in sexual misconduct with a minor or student in violation of the law in obtaining new employment. As directed in the Department’s 2024 appropriation, the Department has taken initial steps to improve compliance with this provision of law.[38]  More must be done.
      1. How many staff are actively working on the 2024 directive after all personnel actions taken through March 11, 2025? 
      2. Please provide a description of actions planned and the associated timeline for meeting this directive and assuring compliance with section 8546 of the ESEA. 
    1. The FY2025 Major Management Challenges report issued by Education’s Office of Inspector General found the Department has “established progress” in improving monitoring and oversight of its grantees.[39]  The report further noted “the Department developed plans to address this Management Challenge that included improving its training and technical assistance and broadening consolidated monitoring efforts. These activities have been substantially implemented.”
      1. Please provide the number of staff with responsibilities for implementing grantee monitoring and oversight as of September 30, 2024 and after all personnel actions taken through March 11, 2025.

    Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We look forward to your prompt response.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dome Manufacturer to Create 72 New Jobs, Invest $4.6 Million in Fayetteville for Manufacturing Facility

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Dome Manufacturer to Create 72 New Jobs, Invest $4.6 Million in Fayetteville for Manufacturing Facility

    Dome Manufacturer to Create 72 New Jobs, Invest $4.6 Million in Fayetteville for Manufacturing Facility
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Josh Stein announced Yeadon Fabric Domes, LLC, a manufacturer of air supported structures, will create 72 new jobs in Cumberland County. The company will invest $4.6 million to build a manufacturing facility in Fayetteville.

    “We are delighted to welcome Yeadon Fabric Domes to Cumberland County,” said Governor Stein. “Our manufacturing leadership and textile legacy woven with our strategic location and excellent quality of life will continue to attract innovative, global companies to our great state.” 

    Yeadon Fabric Domes is a leading designer and manufacturer of climate-controlled domed structures. From professional sports to swimming pools, the company’s air-supported facilities provide large, open spaces for a variety of sporting venues and applications. Yeadon Fabric Domes have been installed in more than 30 countries for customers including several professional football teams, University of Pennsylvania and Marquette University. Headquartered in Minnesota, Yeadon will build its own 72-foot-tall domed structure in a 50,000-square-foot space production site at the Fayetteville Regional Airport, adding more manufacturing capacity and service space for its operations.

    “Yeadon Domes is thrilled to be expanding our operations to Fayetteville,” said Matt Mejia, CEO of Yeadon Fabric Domes. “Throughout the process, it has become clear that Fayetteville is the perfect place to build our manufacturing facility, and to continue producing world-class air-supported domes. We’re grateful for the support of Governor Stein, and our many partners throughout North Carolina. We look forward to joining the community and expanding Yeadon’s 55-year legacy in Cumberland County.”

    “North Carolina is one of the fastest growing states in the nation as it continues to be recognized as the top state to do business in America,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Yeadon Fabric Domes will benefit from a friendly business environment, a world-class workforce, and a rewarding lifestyle in Cumberland County, and we believe they will find great success here.”

    While salaries for the new positions will vary, the average annual salary will be $47,734, exceeding the Cumberland County average of $47,175. These new jobs could create a potential annual payroll impact of more than $3.4 million.

    A performance-based grant of $225,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help the company locate to Cumberland County. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All OneNC grants require a matching participation from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

    “We welcome Yeadon Fabric Domes and its investment to our region,” said N.C. Senator Val Applewhite. “They will greatly benefit from our transitioning military families which offer a uniquely skilled and prepared workforce that a company of this impact will need.”

    “This is a great win for Cumberland County and the entire state,” said N.C. Representative Diane Wheatley. “We extend our sincere appreciation to the partnership of state and local officials and the economic development professionals that supported Yeadon Fabric Domes in making its next home in Fayetteville.”

    In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Cumberland County, the City of Fayetteville, and the Fayetteville Cumberland County Economic Development Corporation. 

    Mar 18, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –