NewzIntel.com

Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Opens Its Largest Experience Store in Gurugram at DLF CyberHub, Redefining Customer Engagement with Next-Gen Technology

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s leading consumer electronics brand, has announced the launch of its largest Experience Store in Gurugram, located at DLF CyberHub—a centre known for its diverse mix of entertainment, lifestyle, and commerce. This sprawling 3,000 sq. ft. space is where consumers can immerse themselves in Samsung’s most advanced mobile and connected technology offerings.
     
    Located in one of Gurugram’s busiest and most accessible areas, the store is designed to cater to the city’s tech-savvy and innovation-driven community. Visitors can experience hands-on interaction with Samsung’s flagship smartphones, wearables, audio devices, and the SmartThings ecosystem in thoughtfully curated immersive zones.
     
    In addition, the store emphasizes personalized customer engagement, with dedicated experts available to guide visitors through Samsung’s latest products, helping them discover tailored solutions that meet their lifestyle needs.
     
    “Our new Experience Store at DLF CyberHub marks a significant step in Samsung’s journey to bring innovative, seamlessly-integrated technology closer to consumers. This store is more than a retail space, it offers a glimpse into the future of connected living, where our SmartThings ecosystem and mobile experiences converge to improve everyday life. Building on the success of our existing experience stores nationwide, the CyberHub location is set to elevate customer engagement through hands-on demonstrations, personalized consultations, and immersive zones that highlight our latest innovations. We invite consumers to explore and experience the cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of how we live, work, and connect,” said Sumit Walia, Vice President, D2C Business, Samsung India.
     
    Samsung’s new Experience Store is a careful blend of the physical and digital worlds. With a full omni-channel experience, customers can transition effortlessly between browsing in-store and purchasing online through Samsung’s Store+ platform. Whether in-store or online, consumers have access to over 1,200 Samsung products, ranging across Mobiles, Smart TVs, Refrigerators and beyond, all available for home delivery.
     
    Samsung is also taking customer engagement a step further with its ‘Learn @ Samsung’ initiative, offering workshops designed for AI education. This includes topics that focus on consumer passion points and interests such as doodling, photography, fitness and productivity. The new Samsung Experience store will also be providing after-sales service for smartphones and the convenience of booking home service calls for all consumer electronics needs.
     
    To mark the opening, Samsung is rolling out special offers for early visitors, including the Galaxy Fit3 at INR 1,999 on select Galaxy purchases and double SmartClub points on all transactions. These exclusive deals add even more value to the immersive experience awaiting customers at DLF CyberHub.
     
    Samsung invites all tech enthusiasts, shoppers, and innovators to visit the new Experience Store and explore the best in mobile technology, connected solutions, and personalized services—all designed to deliver a premium, future-forward experience.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Atos Sustainable Workplace research finds device lifespan can double while still delighting users

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                                                    Press Release

    Atos Sustainable Workplace research finds device lifespan can double while still delighting users

    Research unveils data-driven, condition-based device refresh approach, supported by remanufacturing, can achieve an 8-10 year lifespan versus a standard 3-5 year device lifespan on a fixed refresh cycle without compromising user experience

    Research also demonstrates employees’ engagement: 75% are happy to keep their device for longer if they understand the environmental benefits of doing so

    Paris, France – November 4, 2024 – Atos today releases its research on digital workplace sustainability, providing valuable insights to help organizations enhance their IT decision-making and corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies. The report, “Increasing digital workplace sustainability: Data-driven strategy to accelerate progress together,” highlights high levels of waste endemic across the IT industry and also identifies a series of actions all can take to turn this around.

    Since 79% of a laptop’s carbon footprint is produced during manufacturing, with each new device creating roughly 338kg CO2eq of carbon before use, life cycle extension can have a huge impact. The report initially points out that device lifecycles can be extended without compromising user satisfaction. For instance, by doing nothing but adjusting the standard refresh cycle from three to four years, enterprises can gain a 25% reduction in related emissions without downgrading device performance or user experience. Further, data-driven, condition-based device refresh combined with remanufacturing can achieve an 8-10 year lifespan.

    Atos research reveals that 76% of large organizations’ laptops can be remanufactured. The remaining 24% of devices could be refurbished or recycled to contribute to the circular economy.

    Atos’ study showcases the key role employees could play in IT sustainability. 75% of employees indicated they would be willing to keep their devices longer if they were aware of the environmental benefits. Nonetheless, 16% of devices are left running continuously without being turned off, emphasizing the need for better employee awareness on energy-saving practices. Additionally, carbon intensity can fluctuate up to 2.3 times during the day, indicating that informing users about the best times to use the electrical grid and switching to battery power could improve energy efficiency.

    Data indicate that 57% of the ICT sector’s carbon emissions originate from devices and workplace environments. Atos, as a global leader in digital workplace, was able to analyze 28.5 million devices used by medium to large organizations, with the help of its partners Nexthink, Tier1 and Circular Computing, to offer crucial recommendations for boosting IT sustainability.

    Leon Gilbert, Senior Vice President Digital Workplace, Atos said: “We wanted to leverage the vast quantities of data available to Atos and our partners to challenge convention and pinpoint new opportunities for enterprises and their IT service providers. Some findings surprised even our experts. We can now see how the financial, environmental and social value of every device can be increased while still delighting users”.

    David Welling, IT Sustainability Governance Lead, National Grid said: “Within our own organization, we are looking at using the data from this study to drive strategic changes in behavior. Today, very few of us would consider using our laptops to impact the demand variability of the grid. Yet nobody would think twice about charging their electric vehicle overnight when demand is lower and energy is greener. If we can connect that kind of demand flexibility with ICT, we have a real opportunity to fundamentally change the greenhouse gas emissions of entire energy systems for entire countries”.

    In summary, Atos research highlights that implementing sustainable management, processes and practices in the workplace doesn’t have to be lengthy or costly. Conversely, organizations may experience swift benefits from the insights provided in the study. Additionally, Atos asserts that “what we can measure, we can change” – which underlines the importance of comprehensive and real-time data to progress toward environmental objectives.

    Atos teams provide end-to-end employee experience solutions through digital collaboration and productivity tools, as well as intelligent customer care services. Atos’ sustainable digital workplace suite includes more than 20 “Tech for Good” services and solutions, encompassing social value and accessibility criteria as well as data analytics and user interfaces. In March 2024, Gartner positioned Atos as a Leader in its 2024 Magic Quadrant for Outsourced Digital Workplace Services (ODWS) for the eighth consecutive year.

    ***

    About Tech Foundations

    Tech Foundations is the Atos Group business line leading in managed services, focusing on hybrid cloud infrastructure, employee experience and technology services, through decarbonized, automated and AI-enabled solutions. Its 41,000 employees advance what matters to the world’s businesses, institutions and communities. It is present in 69 countries, with an annual revenue of c. € 5 billion.

    About Atos

    Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 82,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 69 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Press contact

    Isabelle Grangé | isabelle.grange@atos.net | +33 (0) 6 64 56 74 88

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Music Service offers qualification for learners with support needs

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    The Awards and Certificates in Musical Development are industry first, innovative qualifications which set a new standard for fully accessible, inclusive music assessments. They enable children and young people with learning difficulties to achieve a fully regulated qualification in any music making context.

    Daryl Pardesi, Hub Development Lead for Inclusion and Partnerships at Wolverhampton Music Service, said: “This is a much needed new inclusion opportunity for pupils in SEND settings to gain accreditation, just as their peers have done for a long time in primary and secondary settings.

    “These innovative qualifications celebrate every learner’s journey, recognising musical achievements across all abilities and backgrounds.”

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, added: “These are ground breaking, fully accessible, regulated music qualifications open to all learners – from those with profound learning difficulties to those on the autism spectrum.

    “These qualifications enable everyone to have their musical achievements and progress formally recognised, and I am delighted that we are able to offer them through Wolverhampton Music Service.”

    Although geared towards learners with SEND or additional support needs, the Awards and Certificates of Musical Development are designed to recognise how everyone engages with music and is open to all learners working with the Sounds of Intent Framework, with no age restrictions or other limitations.

    Wolverhampton Music Service provides high quality tuition and musical opportunities for youngsters from schools across the city, including the chance to perform with its flagship groups, Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Wolverhampton Youth Wind Orchestra.

    Last year, it delivered around 500 hours of tuition to nearly 7,000 children in 82 schools across the city every week, and runs 15 free ensembles enjoyed by over 500 children and young people on a weekly basis.

    To find out more visit Wolverhampton Music Service.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Asia+ Festival’s concerts by Kinan Azmeh fuses Arabic music with classical and jazz elements (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         This year’s Asia+ Festival has invited Kinan Azmeh, a core member of Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Road Ensemble and an award-winning clarinettist and composer, to perform in Hong Kong for the first time in November. He will be joined by percussionist John Hadfield and five emerging local musicians in a pair of concerts that showcase a broad range of music. The events are presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department.
     
         Born in Syria and now based in the United States, Azmeh is widely acclaimed for his genre-crossing repertoire that blends Arabic music with Western classical and jazz influences. His work has been hailed by The New York Times as “intensely soulful”, describing him as a “virtuoso”. In 2017, Silk Road Ensemble’s “Sing Me Home”, which he contributed to, won the Grammy Award for Best World Music Album. Within the album is his composition “Wedding”, in which he also appeared as a clarinettist.
     
         Azmeh has performed in many major venues around the world, such as the Bastille Opera House in Paris, Berliner Philharmonie in Berlin and the United Nations General Assembly in New York. In the upcoming Hong Kong concerts, he will perform four compositions of different styles, which will express emotions that are universally shared. “The Fence, the Rooftop and the Distant Sea” portrays the composer’s longing for his hometown, while “Ibn Arabi Postlude” exalts love and freedom, which he deems as sacred as religion. Another piece, “In the Element”, depicts Azmeh’s state of bliss as he becomes one with the natural environment he is familiar with. Lastly, “Suite for Improvisor and Orchestra” is his contemplation of the intriguing correlations between the composed and the improvised.
     
         Besides sharing the stage with Hadfield are the five local musicians, namely violinists Nina Wong and Sammi Chan, violist Martin Kuo, cellist Kelvin Lee, and double bassist Evette Chiu. Part of this programme was performed to critical acclaim for Azmeh’s collaboration with the London Philharmonic Orchestra in London Southbank Centre last year.
     
         “Concert by Kinan Azmeh” is one of the celebratory programmes of the 35th anniversary of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. It will be staged at 8pm on November 22 and 23 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Studio Theatre. Each performance will be followed by a meet-the-artist session. Tickets priced at $260 and $400 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288; or use the mobile ticketing app “URBTIX”. Besides the concert, a composition and improvisation workshop, with tickets priced at $200, will be held on November 20 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Administration Building’s Podium Workshop. Azmeh will also coach Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts students in a clarinet masterclass on November 21 at the Academy’s Recital Hall. Members of the audience are welcome to view the class for free. For more details, please visit asiaplus.gov.hk/2024/en/concert-by-kinan-azmeh.
     
         The second Asia+ Festival is running from September to November, highlighting the arts and cultures of nearly 30 Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions. Apart from stage programmes, there are also thematic exhibitions, an outdoor carnival, film screenings, outreach activities and more, numbering over 100 in total. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2370 1044 or visit asiaplus.gov.hk/2024/en.         

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Metasphere Updates on Strategic Projects and Plans for Future Developments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Metasphere Labs Inc. (“Metasphere” or the “Company”) (CSE: LABZ) (OTC: LABZF) (FRA: H1N) , a leader in blockchain, metaverse, and decentralized identity technology, is pleased to update its stakeholders on the recent advancements and strategic decisions across its key partnerships.

    Delivery of Project for Bluesphere Ventures

    On November 1, 2024, Metasphere completed and delivered its work for Bluesphere Ventures Inc., which was initially announced in March 21, 2024. This milestone highlights Metasphere’s capability to meet demanding timelines, furthering progress toward the shared vision of “Ents World,” an eco-conscious open metaverse initiative.

    Termination of Partnership with Bot Ventures

    Following the May 8, 2024 announcement, Metasphere has decided to reprioritize its resources, mutually agreeing with Bot Ventures to terminate the decentralized identity project (the “Termination”). Metasphere retains the developed assets and may explore launching the project independently in the future, although no immediate plans are in place. There are no costs related to the Termination.

    Advancement of VR Platform with ARCannabis

    As part of its definitive agreement with ARCannabis announced on June 21, 2024, Metasphere is finalizing the development of a VR retail platform, with delivery expected by the end of this quarter. This immersive experience will redefine customer interactions within virtual reality.

    Development of CarbonBot Protocol with Ecoblox and Pure Sky

    Significant progress has been achieved on the carbon-aware routing protocol collaboration with Ecoblox and Pure Sky, announced in July 9, 2024. The project now operates collectively under the CarbonBot brand, deviating from initial plans for a public benefit corporation. While the protocol was not showcased at MWC Americas, the partnership is considering participation in MWC 2025 in Barcelona. The completed Carbon Offsetting Protocol is available on GitHub, with plans underway for an audit by either an ISO or UN-certified VVB (Verification and Validation Body), potentially making it the first recognized carbon offsetting protocol to meet stringent environmental standards, following which it will be submitted to the Pure Sky Registry to be voted on by its members.

    Future Focus: TON Blockchain and Metaverse Development on Telegram

    As Metasphere looks forward, its focus will shift toward metaverse and mini-app development on the Telegram Messenger platform, leveraging the Telegram Open Network (TON) blockchain. This strategic shift aligns with Metasphere’s mission to democratize access to decentralized applications within widely adopted social ecosystems, offering secure, scalable solutions that foster community-driven interactions.

    About Metasphere Labs Inc.

    Metasphere Labs Inc. is a leading developer of Web3 and metaverse strategies. The company specializes in integrating blockchain technology into real-world applications, with a focus on environmental sustainability and social impact. Metasphere is passionate about applying decentralized solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

    For more information, please contact:
    Metasphere Labs Inc.
    Natasha Ingram, CEO
    Email: info@metasphere.earth
    Phone: 604-687-2038

    Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements.” Statements in this news release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions regarding the future. Such forward-looking statements include, among other things, the development of the carbon credit protocol initiative, other open metaverse and blockchain projects, and the development of virtual world projects.

    The material assumptions supporting these forward-looking statements include, among others, that: the Company could mitigate the risks associated with the blockchain and NFT industry; the ability to compete with other businesses in the NFT, metaverse and blockchain markets; the availability of sufficient funding to carry out the Company’s business development plans; favourable market conditions; and the market acceptance for its products.

    Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. These forward-looking statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including: the continued growth and adoption of NFT, metaverse and blockchain offerings; the cost of developing and designing NFTs and metaverses is economically viable; the Company being able to attract and retain a sufficient workforce with desired skillsets to develop the Company’s digital offerings; the availability of offerings provided by third-parties in the NFT, metaverse development and online gaming market to identify potential transactions; the increasing adoption of NFTs as a solution for various online gaming, entertainment and collectible uses; the Company having the ability to mitigate the risks associated with the blockchain and NFT industry; and the ability to compete with other businesses in the NFT, metaverse development, content creation and collectibles market.

    Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. These forward-looking statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including: the risk that the Company’s offerings are not accepted by the consumer, the risk that other competitors may offer similar digital offerings; the risk that there may be negative changes in general economic and business conditions; the risk that the Company may have negative operating cash flow and not enough capital to complete the development of any of its technologies; the risk that the Company may not be able to obtain additional financing as necessary; the risk that there may be increases in capital and operating costs; the risk that the NFT technology may be subject to fraud and other failures; the risk that there may be technological changes and developments in the blockchain that make the NFT solutions obsolete; risks relating to regulatory changes or actions which may impede the development or operation of the blockchain solutions; the risk that other competitors may release similar blockchain offerings; the potential future unviability of the NFT market in general; the volatile cost of the amount of computational effort required to execute specific operations on the blockchain, and other general risks involved in the blockchain solutions.

    Risks and uncertainties about the Company’s business are more fully discussed in the Company’s disclosure materials, including its reports filed with the Canadian securities regulators and which can be obtained from www.sedarplus.ca.

    Any of these risks may cause the Company’s actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Further, although the Company has attempted to identify factors that could cause actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results, levels of activity, performance or achievements not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. These forward- looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law, including the securities laws of the United States and Canada. Although the Company believes that any beliefs, plans, expectations and intentions contained in this news release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any such beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions will prove to be accurate. The Company does not assume any liability for disclosure relating to any other company mentioned herein.

    SOURCE: METASPHERE LABS INC.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City getting digi with it

    Source: City of Norwich

    Refurbishment work is moving at pace to create a new Digital Hub at Townshend House in Norwich city centre.

    The hub, which will be operated by HQ, part of International Workplace Group, the world’s largest provider of hybrid working solutions, is due to open its doors in the Spring, is set help make the city a digital powerhouse.

    It is one of eight key projects in the £25m Town Deal programme which is funded by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (MHCLG)’s Levelling Up Fund following a successful bid by Norwich City Council as part of its drive to deliver regeneration, new skills, infrastructure and jobs in the city.

    And to see how works were shaping up this week was Cllr Mike Stonard, Leader of Norwich City Council.

    Cllr Stonard said: “Things are really shaping up here and I am really looking forward to seeing the new Townshend House become the City’s Digital Hub – it really will be a major milestone in our mission to make Norwich a digital and creative powerhouse. It’s all part of our plans to make a more prosperous Norwich and fit for the future.”

    Mark Dixon, CEO & Founder of International Workplace Group PLC, commented: “With a growing digital community, Norwich is a fantastic place for us to boost our expansion plans across Norfolk and the East of England. The need for high-quality flexible workspaces continues to soar across the world as hybrid working becomes the new normal. We are very pleased to work with the council to open our latest state-of-the-art workspaces to support the thriving digital industry in Norwich.”

    The former ITV Anglia HQ, which is owned by Norwich City Council, will provide new and additional workspaces for digital businesses in Norwich. 

    Set to open in Spring 2025, The Digital Hub will provide space for established firms and start-ups across a range of industries including digital, creative and media, while International Workplace Group’s Design Your Own Office service allows companies to tailor their space entirely to their requirements. The new HQ workspace location will include facilities including private offices, meeting rooms, co-working and creative spaces.

    Local Growth Minister, Alex Norris, said: “It’s fantastic to hear work is under way to create a new Digital Hub in Norwich, another step forward in making the city centre a destination for the tech and creative industry is the economic growth we want to see across all towns and cities. It is vital our communities keep creating innovative flexible new spaces like this to attract new startups and investors to the area and help local people to fully embrace the jobs of the future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal for witnesses to serious collision in Hammersmith

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating a serious road traffic incident in Hammersmith are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dash cam footage or CCTV footage to come forward.

    Police were called by the London Ambulance Service at 12:50hrs on Wednesday, 30 October to reports of a collision involving a delivery van and a woman on a service road outside The Ark on Talgarth Road, W6.

    Emergency services attended and provided first aid. The woman was taken to hospital where she remains due to her serious injuries.

    The van driver who stopped at the scene was not arrested. They are co-operating with police officers and the investigation.

    Detectives from the Roads and Transport Policing Command are leading the investigation.

    Anyone who witnessed this incident or has information or footage should contact the witness line on 020 8543 5157 or call police on 101 or post on X @MetCC quoting 3378/30Oct.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Aerospike Database on Kubernetes Enabled 95 Million Transactions per Second on E-commerce Platform for Festive Sale

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aerospike Inc. (“Aerospike”), the real-time database, announced that Flipkart, India’s homegrown e-commerce marketplace, sustained performance of its in-house Aerospike database platform at a rate of 95 million transactions per second (TPS) supporting its annual flagship, The Big Billion Days (TBBD).

    Flipkart continues to set new benchmarks in e-commerce by transforming the way India shops online during the festive season. To deliver a superior e-commerce experience to the world’s most populous nation, multiple application teams at Flipkart leveraged Aerospike and its Kubernetes Operator, Aerospike Kubernetes Operator (AKO). This combination ensures low-latency, high-throughput database operations at sustained performance levels rarely seen anywhere in the world, powering use cases that require sub-millisecond query times.

    Operational Efficiency and Cost Optimization

    By automating database management and scaling with AKO, Flipkart optimizes resource utilization, reducing infrastructure costs while efficiently handling peak loads without overprovisioning. This ensures Flipkart delivers a cost-effective, world-class e-commerce experience.

    Global Availability and High Resilience

    Aerospike assures high availability and resilience across distributed operations, which is critical for a large-scale event. Aerospike empowers businesses to operate with confidence, knowing their infrastructure can handle massive demand. AKO enhances this with self-healing capabilities and built-in redundancy, ensuring resilience in case of failure—critical for a seamless customer experience.

    A Breakthrough for Kubernetes in Hyperscale Data Operations

    “While Kubernetes initially rose to popularity for its ability to run stateless microservices, Flipkart’s success with the Aerospike Kubernetes Operator validates the use of the container orchestration system for operating durable data platforms at hyperscale,” said Srini Srinivasan, PhD, CTO and founder of Aerospike. “The achievements of Flipkart are incredible—there are very few companies in the world that work on this level of transactional throughput.”

    The Aerospike Kubernetes Operator continues to rapidly grow among customers in all sectors and geographies. In the past 12 months, Aerospike has added capabilities to AKO, making it easier to automate all aspects of operating, upgrading, backing up and restoring, and scaling up and down database clusters.

    Read about the latest enhancements to the Aerospike Kubernetes Operator for empowering operations teams.

    About Aerospike

    Aerospike is the real-time database built for infinite scale, speed, and savings. Our customers are ready for what’s next with the lowest latency and the highest throughput data platform. Cloud- and AI-forward, we empower leading organizations like Adobe, Airtel, Criteo, DBS Bank, Experian, Flipkart, PayPal, Snap, and Sony Interactive Entertainment. Headquartered in Mountain View, California, our offices include London, Bangalore, and Tel Aviv.

    Aerospike is a registered trademark of Aerospike, Inc.

    Contact:
    John Moran
    Look Left Marketing
    aerospike@lookleftmarketing.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three sentenced as Met crackdown on mobile phone theft in south east London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Local Met officers in south east London have led an investigation into a series of phone thefts, as part of the service’s commitment to tackling mobile phone robbery and theft.

    A man and two teenage boys were sentenced for their involvement in a spate of phone theft incidents in Bermondsey and Greenwich.

    The trio were brought to justice for their part in snatching phones in 35 separate incidents. Thanks to the actions of Met officers, 32 mobile phones were recovered, with 30 of them successfully returned to their rightful owners. The total estimated value of the stolen phone’s amounts to over £20,000.

    To tackle the rising issue of phone thefts in London, officers have been listening to community concerns and using data and technology to target hotspots where offending is more likely to take place.

    As part of the A New Met for London plan, the Met are focusing on improving community policing, with officers patrolling busy areas and town centres to help deter offenders and ensure they are present to act on anything suspicious. Local residents have fed back the increased presence has provided a sense of safety to residents and visitors.

    The Met is employing CCTV in busy areas to monitor and identify people involved in mobile phone thefts, allowing them to capture real time footage for analysis and evidence gathering.

    Police Constable Alex Earley, who led the investigation, said:

    “I am pleased our investigation has brought three offenders to justice for their part to play in a spate of phone thefts in our local area. This demonstrates our commitment to addressing concerns from those living and working here.

    “Our top priority is to drive down crime that impacts our communities the most, creating neighbourhoods where everyone feels safe.”

    The Met investigation was launched in 2023 and focused on the three individuals who used electric motorbikes to steal phones from unsuspecting victims. They targeted individuals by aggressively riding their bikes on pavements and approaching people at high speeds, creating an intimidating environment that made it difficult for victims to react or escape.

    Kie Joyce, 21 (20.03.03) of Neckinger Estate, SE16 was sentenced to three and a half years imprisonment on Thursday, 19 September at Inner London Crown Court for conspiracy to steal and eight counts of dangerous driving offences.

    A 16-year-old boy – who cannot be named for legal reasons, was sentenced to six months on Friday, 1 November at Central Criminal Court for conspiracy to steal and eight counts of dangerous driving.

    A second 16-year-old boy – who also cannot be named for legal reasons – was sentenced to a nine-month supervision requirement on Friday, 26 February at South London Magistrate’s court for conspiracy to commit theft and handling stolen goods. He was also subjected to a Youth Rehabilitation Order, curfew requirement and is required to pay compensation of £425.00.

    Commander Owain Richards, the lead for mobile phone thefts in London, added:

    “We understand the impact of mobile phone theft can have on victims, it’s an invasive and sometimes violent crime- and we’re committed to protecting Londoners and tackling this issue as we make the capital safer.

    “We continue to use data and technology to build intelligence and track stolen items to target offenders. We are also working phone firms to ‘design out’ the ability for phones to be reused and sold on as we seek to dismantle the criminal market that fuels robbery and theft.

    “We encourage people to report as soon as they can whenever they have been a victim of mobile phone theft, so officers can investigate swiftly”.

    If you witness or are a victim of a crime, it is crucial to report it promptly by calling 999 in the case of an emergency. For non-emergency situations, you can call 101 or report online.

    For advice on how to stay safe from mobile phone theft please our website for further information.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Stage set for 76th Republic Day Celebrations at Kartavya Path

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Stage set for 76th Republic Day Celebrations at Kartavya Path

    Indonesian President Mr Prabowo Subianto to be the Chief Guest

    The ceremony to showcase India’s rich cultural diversity, unity, equality, development & military prowess; Special focus on 75 years of enactment of the Constitution

    Around 10,000 Special Guests from different walks of life to witness the parade

    31 Tableaux to roll down Kartavya Path on the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’; In a first, a Tri-services tableau to display the spirit of jointness & integration among the Armed Forces

    Cultural performance by 5,000 artists to cover entire Kartavya Path for the first time

    Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:58PM by PIB Delhi

    President Smt Droupadi Murmu will lead the Nation in celebrating the 76th Republic Day from Kartavya Path in New Delhi on January 26, 2025. With special focus on 75 years of enactment of the Constitution and Jan Bhagidari, the celebrations this year will be a unique blend of India’s rich cultural diversity, unity, equality, development and military prowess. President of the Republic of Indonesia Mr Prabowo Subianto will be the Chief Guest.

    Around 10,000 Special Guests have been invited to witness the parade, in line with the Government’s objective to increase ‘Jan Bhagidari’ in events of national importance. These Special Guests from different walks of life are the architects of ‘Swarnim Bharat’. They include best performers in various fields and those who have made best use of the schemes of the Government.

    The parade

    The Republic Day parade will start at 1030 hrs and run for a duration of approx. 90 minutes. The ceremony will commence with the visit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to the National War Memorial, where he will lead the nation in paying solemn tributes to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath. Thereafter, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries will head to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade.

    The arrival of the President of India and her Indonesian counterpart will be escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, the senior most Regiment of the Indian Army. The two Presidents will arrive in the ‘Traditional Buggy’, the practice which made a comeback in 2024 after a gap of 40 years.

    As per tradition, the National Flag will be unfurled followed by the National Anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute using 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system. 

    The parade will be heralded by 300 cultural artists playing ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha’ with musical instruments of different parts of the country. This indigenous mix of instruments would resonate with the melody, beat and hopes of a billion Indians hearts. The ensemble of instruments includes Shehnai, Sundari, Nadaswaram, Been, Mashak Been, Ransingha – Rajasthan, Flute, Karadi Majalu, Mohuri, Sankha, Tutari, Dhol, Gong, Nishan, Chang, Tasha, Sambal, Chenda, Idakka, Lezim, Thavil, Gudum Baza, Talam and Monbah.

    Showering of flower petals will be carried out by Mi-17 1V helicopters from 129 Helicopter Unit in the Dhwaj Formation. Trooping the National Flag, this formation of helicopters will be led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat.

    The parade will then begin with the President taking the salute. The parade will be commanded by Parade Commander Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, a second-generation officer. Major General Sumit Mehta, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area will be the Parade Second-in-Command.

    The proud winners of the highest gallantry awards will follow. They include Param Vir Chakra winners Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) & Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), and Ashok Chakra winner Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd). The Param Vir Chakra is awarded for the most conspicuous act of bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of the enemy, while the Ashok Chakra is awarded for similar acts of valour and self-sacrifice but, other than, in the face of the enemy.

     

    Indonesian Contingent

    Kartavya Path will be witness to a march past by the Marching Contingent of Indonesian National Armed Forces and Military Band of Indonesia’s Military Academy. The marching contingent will consist of 152 members, with 190 members in the military band.

     

    Indian Army Contingent

    The first Army contingent leading the Mounted Column will be of 61 Cavalry, led by Lt Ahaan Kumar. Raised in 1953, the 61 Cavalry is the only serving active Horsed Cavalry Regiment in the world, with the amalgamation of all the ‘State Horsed Cavalry Units’. It will be followed by nine Mechanised Columns and nine marching contingents.

    Tank T-90 (Bhishma); NAG Missile System along with BMP-2 Sarath; BrahMos; Pinaka Multi-launcher Rocket System, Agnibaan Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher; Akash Weapon System; Integrated Battlefield Surveillance System; All-Terrain Vehicle (Chetak), Light Specialist Vehicle (Bajrang), Vehicle Mounted Infantry Mortar System (Airawat), Quick Reaction Force Vehicles (Nandighosh & Tripurantak) and Short-Span Bridging System will also be on display at the Kartavya Path.

    Marching down the Kartavya Path will be the contingents of Brigade of the Guards, The Jat Regiment, The Garhwal Rifles, The Mahar Regiment, The Jammu & Kashmir Rifles Regiment, the Corps of Signals, among others.

     

    Tri-Services Tableau

    For the first time, a Tri-services tableau will roll down on Kartavya Path, displaying the spirit of jointness and integration. With the theme ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat’, the tableau will depict a Joint Operations Room facilitating networking and communication among the  three Services. It would display a battlefield scenario demonstrating a synchronised operation in land, water and air with the indigenous Arjun Main Battle Tank, Tejas MKII fighter aircraft, Advanced Light Helicopter, destroyer INS Visakhapatnam & a Remotely Piloted Aircraft, reflecting the Tri-services synergy in multi-domain operations. These platforms exemplify the vision to achieve ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence.

     

    Veterans’ Tableau

    Another highlight would be the Veterans’ Tableau on the theme ‘Viksit Bharat ki Ore Sadaiv Agrasar’, a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering spirit of our veterans, who are the symbols of discipline, resilience, and unyielding dedication.

    Adding to the display of honor will be the esteemed veterans who have brought glory to India in sports. Among them are Padma Shri awardees Subedar Murlikant Petkar, whose story inspired the Bollywood film Chandu Champion, and Honorary Captain Jitu Rai. Arjuna and Khel Ratna awardees Colonel Balbir Singh Kular, Captain (IN) Homi Motivala, Master Chief Petty Officer Tajinder Toor, Master Warrant Officer Ram Mehar Singh, and Wing Commander Gurmeet Sandhu will also be present.

    Representing Nari Shakti will be veteran women officers from all three services – Lieutenant Colonel Ravinderjeet Randhawa, Lieutenant Commander Mani Agarwal, and Flight Lieutenant Ruchi Saha, showcasing the pivotal role of women in shaping our armed forces.

     

    Indian Navy Contingent

    The Indian Navy contingent will consist of 144 personnel, led by Lt Cdr Sahil Ahluwalia as Contingent Commander and Lt Cdr Indresh Choudhary, Lt Cdr Kajal Anil Bharani & Lt Devender as Platoon Commanders. It will be followed by the Naval Tableau, depicting a strong ‘Aatmanirbhar’ Navy capable of protecting India’s maritime interests.

    The tableau showcases the newly-commissioned indigenous frontline state-of-the-art combatants including the Destroyer INS Surat, Frigate INS Nilgiri and Submarine INS Vaghsheer, highlighting India’s rapid progress in indigenous warship design and construction and reinforcing Indian Navy’s commitment to build a robust and self-sufficient defence eco system.

     

    Indian Air Force Contingent

    The Indian Air Force contingent will comprise four officers and 144 personnel, led by Sqn Ldr Mahender Singh Garati, with Flt Lt Nepo Moirangthem, Flt Lt Damini Deshmukh & Fg Offr Abhinav Gorsi being supernumerary officers. It will be followed by a fly-past by three MiG-29 aircraft in ‘Baaz Formation’.

     

    Indian Coast Guard

    The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) contingent will be led by Deputy Commandant Navita Thakran followed by three officers of the guard – Deputy Commandant Sumit Kumar, Deputy Commandant Pankaj Saini and Assistant Commandant Priya Balurkar.

    It will be followed by a tableau of ICG focussing on coastal security and maritime search and rescue. The theme is ‘Swarnim Bharat: Heritage and Progress’.

     

    DRDO Tableau & Equipment

    DRDO will display some path-breaking innovations for national security during the parade. The DRDO Tableau, with the theme ‘Raksha Kavach – Multi-layer Protection against Multi-domain Threats’ will feature Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile; Airborne Early Warning & Control System; 155 mm/52 Cal Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System; Drone Detect, Deter & Destroy; Satellite-Based Surveillance System; Medium Power Radar – Arudhra; Advanced Light Weight Torpedo; Electronic Warfare System – Dharashakti; Laser-Based Directed Energy Weapon; Very Short Range Air Defence System; Indigenous Unmanned Aerial System; V/UHF Manpack Software Defined Radio for Land Forces; Indigenous Secure Satellite Phone and UGRAM Assault Rifle.

    Apart from this, DRDO’s major landmarks of 2024 will also be showcased in the tableau posters namely Long Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile; Light Weight Bullet Proof Jacket ‘ABHED’; Divyastra – Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle; ‘Zorawar’ Light Tank and the Dornier Mid-Life Upgrade with radar, Electronic Warfare System, Software Defined Radio etc.

     

    Contingents of paramilitary & other auxiliary civil forces

    Among the contingents marching down the Kartavya Path will be a 148-member all-women marching contingent of Central Reserve Police Force, led by Assistant Commandant Aishwarya Joy M. The marching contingent of Railway Protection Force will be led by Divisional Security Commissioner Aditya.

    The Assam Rifles contingent will be led by Captain Karanveer Singh Kumbhavat of 29 Assam Rifles. It will comprise soldiers recruited from all over the country.

    The Delhi Police marching contingent will be led by Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Rishi Kumar Singh. The Delhi Police all-women band will be participating for the second time, led by Band Master Ruyangunuo Kense.

    The Camel contingent of Border Security Force will be under the command of Deputy Commandant Manohar Singh Kheechee.

    The all-girls marching contingent of NCC – SW (Girls) – will be led by Senior Under Officer Ekta Kumari of Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh Directorate. The all-boys marching contingent – SD (Boys) – will be led by Senior Under Officer Prasad Prakash Waikul of Maharashtra Directorate. The National Service Scheme (NSS) marching contingent of 148 volunteers will be led by Mr Deepak from Punjab.

     

    Tableaux

    Tableaux from 16 State Government/Union Territories and 10 Ministries/Departments of the Central Government highlighting ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’, will participate in the parade this year. These tableaux would showcase India’s diverse strengths and its constantly-evolving cultural inclusiveness marching into a glorious future. The details of the participating tableaux of States/UTs are as follows:

    States/UTs

    Cultural Heritage of Goa

    Uttarakhand

     

    Uttarakhand: Cultural Heritage and Adventure Sports

    Haryana

     

    Showcasing Bhagwad Gita

    Jharkhand

     

    Swarnim Jharkhand: A Legacy of Heritage and Progress

    Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas

    Andhra Pradesh
     

    Etikoppaka Bommalu- Eco-Friendly Wooden Toys

    Punjab as the land of knowledge and wisdom

    Uttar Pradesh

    Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat Virasat aur Vikas

    Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas (Nalanda Vishwavidyalya)

    Madhya Pradesh
     

    Madhya Pradesh’s Glory: Kuno National park- The land of CHeetahs

    Tripura

     

    Eternal Reverence: The worship of 14 Deities in Tripura – Kharchi Puja

    Karnataka

     

    Lakkundi: Cradle of Stone craft

    West Bengal

    The ‘Lakshmir Bhandar’ & ‘Lok Prasar Prakalpa’ – Empowering Lives and Fostering Self-Reliance in Bengal

    Chandigarh

    Chandigarh: A Harmonious Blend of Heritage, Innovation and Sustainability

    Quality Education

    Dadra Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    Daman Aviary Bird Park along with Kukri Memorial- a tribute to the valiant sailors of the Indian Navy

    The details of tableaux of Ministries/Departments are as follows:

    Departments/Ministries

    Department of Social Justice and Empowerment

    The Constitution of India, a cornerstone of our Virasat (Heritage), Vikas and Path-Pradarshak

    Ministry of Tribal Affairs

    Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh

    Ministry of Women & Child Development

    Multifaceted journey of women and children nurtured under the Ministry’s comprehensive schemes

    Ministry of New & Renewable Energy

    Swarnim Bharat: Heritage and Development

    Ministry of Rural Development

    Lakhpati Didi

    Department of Financial Services

    India’s remarkable journey in financial evolution

    Ministry of Earth Sciences (IMD)

    Modern Science forecasting extreme weather conditioning- saving lives and livelihood

    Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying

    Golden India Heritage and Development Honouring India’s Indigenous Bovine Breeds as Icons of Sustainable Rural Growth

    Ministry of Culture

    Swarnim Bharat: Heritage and Development

    75 Years of Constitution of India through flower tableau

             

    Cultural Performance

    This year, 5,000 artists in a title of ‘Jayati Jaya Mamaḧ Bharatam’ will perform over 45 dance forms from different part of the country in a 11-minute cultural performance. For the first time, the performance will cover the entire Kartavya Path – from Vijay Chowk to C hexagon – to ensure that all guests get the same viewing experience.

     

    Motorcycle Display

    The Corps of Signals Motorcycle Rider Display Team, famously known as ‘The Dare Devils’, will carry out breath-taking stunts during the motorcycle display. The team will showcase their bravery and determination through a number of formations, including Bullet Salute, Tank Top, Double Jimmy, Devils Down, Ladder Salute, Shatrujeet, Shraddhanjali, Mercury Peak, Info Warriors, Lotus and Human Pyramid.

     

    Fly-past

    One of the most eagerly-awaited events of the parade, the ‘Fly-past’ will witness a breath-taking air show by 40 aircraft/helicopters – 22 fighter jets, 11 transport aircraft and seven helicopters – of IAF. These include Rafale, Su-30, Jaguar, C-130, C-295, C-17, AWACS, Dornier-228 & An-32 aircraft and Apache & Mi-17 helicopters. They will display a variety of formations including Dhwaj, Ajay, Satluj, Rakshak, Arjan, Netra, Bheem, Amrit, Vajrang, Trishul and Vijay. The concluding Vertical Charlie maneuver will be performed by a Rafale fighter aircraft.

    The ceremony will culminate with the national anthem and the release of balloons carrying banners with the official logo depicting 75 years of enactment of the Constitution in both English and Hindi.

    A number of unique activities have been carried out as part of the celebrations. These include:

     

    Rashtraparv Portal & Mobile App

    ‘Rashtraparv Portal’ portal and mobile App (Apple play and Msewa) have been launched to facilitate access to information related to national events such as Republic Day, Beating Retreat Ceremony, Independence Day; live streaming, purchase of tickets, provide information related to seating arrangements & route-maps of events etc.

     

    Ease of Access

     

    • Metro Services: Free Metro ride will be provided to Invitees/Ticket holders of RDP-2025 at entry point of the Metro Stations across Delhi. Delhi Metro operations will begin at 4:00 AM on January 26, 2025 across Delhi. Parking spaces of Delhi Metro in Across Delhi will be opened on chargeable basis at regular rates.
    • Park and Ride Scheme: Park and Ride Scheme will be available. Under this scheme, invitees will park their vehicle at Palika Parking, Connaught Place and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium’s parking area (Gate -14 & 15). From there, they can avail the ferry services (pick and drop) through the hired DTC buses. The ferry services will start at 6:00 AM and stop at 8:30 AM.
    • All enclosures are accessible and Divyang friendly with ramp facility. There will also be youth volunteers from NCC with wheelchairs for assistance.
    • Although the list of prohibited items are communicated well in advance, a cloak room facility will also be available.

     

    Special Guests

    Approximately 10,000 Special Guests in 34 categories, including the Sarpanches from villages excelling in key government schemes, have been invited as Special Guests to witness the parade this year. Details are as follows:

     

    S No

    Category

    No of Guests
    1.  

    Sarpanches

    500
    1.  

    Sarpanches from top performing village

    200
    1.  

    Disaster Relief Workers

    300
    1.  

    Guests from Vibrant Villages

    300
    1.  

    Best performing Water Warriors

    400
    1.  

    Primary Agriculture Credit (PAC) Societies

    200
    1.  

    Pani Samitee

    400
    1.  

    Community Resource Person (Krishi Sakhi, Udhyog Sakhi etc.)

    400

     
    1.  

    SHG members

    200
    1.  

    Trainees of DGT got training under National Skill Development Corporation

    200
    1.  

    PM YASASVI Scheme

    400
    1.  

    Forest & Wildlife conservation volunteers/workers

    200
    1.  

    Handloom Artisans

    200
    1.  

    Handicraft Artisans

    200
    1.  

    Special Achievers and Tribal beneficiaries of various schemes

    500

     
    1.  

    ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist)

    500
    1.  

    Mann Ki Baat Participants

    400
    1.  

    My Bharat Volunteers

    400
    1.  

    Paralympic Contingent & winners of International Sports events

    200
    1.  

    Agriculture Infrastructure Fund scheme, Farmers Producing Organisation, Padma Awardee Farmers, PMKISAN, PMFBY, PMKSY

    800
    1.  

    PM Surya Ghar Yojna

    400
    1.  

    Renewable Energy workers

    200
    1.  

    Beneficiaries of PM KUSUM scheme

    200
    1.  

    Anganwadi Workers

    400

    		  
    1.  

    Road Construction Workers

    300
    1.  

    Best Start-Ups

    100
    1.  

    Best Patent Holders

    100
    1.  

    PM-VISHWAKARMA yojana Beneficiaries

    200
    1.  

    PM Matasya Sampada Yojana Beneficiaries

    200
    1.  

    Rashtriya Gokul Mission beneficiaries

    200
    1.  

    Guests from North Eastern States

    200
    1.  

    Foreign Cadets of Youth Exchange Programme/NCC

    250

    		  
    1.  

    Finalist of the National School Band Competition

    600

    		  
    1.  

    Winners of Veer Gatha 4.0

    100

    		  

     

    Beating Retreat Ceremony

    RDC comes to a close with the ‘Beating Retreat Ceremony’, which is held every year on the 29th January at Vijay Chowk. It marks a centuries old military tradition, when the troops ceased fighting, sheathed their arms, withdrew from the battlefield and returned to the camps at sunset at the sounding of the Retreat. Colours and Standards are cased and flags lowered. During the Beating Retreat Ceremony 2025, only Indian Tunes will be played by all the participating bands.

     

    Bharat Parv

    ‘Bharat Parv’ will be organised at the Red Fort, Delhi from January 26-31, 2025 by the Ministry of Tourism. It will showcase Republic Day Tableaux, performances by the Military Bands (Static), cultural performances, Food Courts serving pan India cuisines and Crafts Bazaar.

     

    PM’s NCC Rally

    PM’s NCC rally, with the theme of ‘Yuva Shakti-Viksit Bharat’ is scheduled to be organised at Cariappa Parade Ground, Delhi Cantt. on January 27, 2025. During the event, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will review the multifarious activities of the NCC.

    ****

    VK/SR/Savvy/KB

    (Release ID: 2096097) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Be a part of India’s vibrant game developer community through Road to Game Jam & become India’s brightest game developer team for WAVES

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Be a part of India’s vibrant game developer community through Road to Game Jam & become India’s brightest game developer team for WAVES

    GDAI, IGDC & KGeN assuring nourishment of talent from across the country to fulfil your dream

    Squad of talented devs being fostered to represent their regions and showcase their games at World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit

    Registrations reopen for Road to Game Jam: Apply by February 1, Submit by February 16, Results on March 16

    Road to Game Jam sees  over 5,400 registrations across 1,622 colleges, uniting game developers nationwide under WAVES Create in India Challenge

    Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 6:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The Game Developer Association of India (GDAI), through its flagship event, the India Game Developer Conference (IGDC), has joined forces with KGeN to organize the “Road to Game Jam.” This initiative is one of the challenges under the Create in India Challenge Season 1, an activity under the Government of India’s World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES). It aims to empower India’s game developers to shape the future of the gaming industry by showcasing cutting-edge innovation and creativity.

    The Road to Game Jam is offering game developers another opportunity to join this exciting initiative. With registrations open until February 1st 2025, aspiring developers can now showcase their talent and creativity in game design. The new submission deadline is February 16th 2025, with results set to be announced on March 16th 2025.

    If you missed the first round, now is the perfect time to jump in and demonstrate your game-making skills. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a national platform fostering innovation and excellence in India’s game development community.

    GDAI and KGeN are proud to announce the remarkable progress of the Road to Game Jam, an unprecedented initiative aimed at nurturing and expanding India’s vibrant game development community. By fostering local talent and providing a platform for regional representation, this program is paving the way for India’s brightest game development teams to shine at the WAVES India Summit.

     

    Building Momentum: Achievements So Far

    Since its launch, the Road to Game Jam has achieved incredible milestones:

    • 5,496 game development enthusiasts registered for the program.
    • Representing 1,622 unique colleges across India.
    • Participants hail from 446 cities, spanning 28 states and 8 Union Territories.
    • 120 teams from various colleges have already formed and are actively participating.
    • The themes for the Game Jam were released on the 20th of December 2024
    • Themes:
      • Everything Falls Apart
      • Stuck Together
      • Handle with Care
      • Invisible Connections
      • The Sound of Silence

    Empowering the Game Development Community

    GDAI and KGeN have also initiated several impactful activities to educate and empower the game development community:

    Workshops

    • The first workshop, conducted by Rahul Sehgal, founder of Gamer2Maker, focused on building a career in game development in India and addressed foundational aspects of the industry.
    • An AMA Session was held on January 18, 2024, featuring Nakul Verma, Founder of Playbae and Senior Engineer at Netflix. Nakul provided invaluable insights and addressed questions from the community offering practical guidance to inspire the participants

    These sessions are designed to foster networking, provide mentorship, and equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in game development.

    About GDAI

    The Game Developer Association of India (GDAI) is dedicated to building a globally recognized ecosystem for game developers, studios, and industry professionals. For over a decade, GDAI has championed innovation, sustainability, and excellence in game creation. The association provides resources, mentorship, and skill development while promoting ethical standards, inclusion, and innovation in the gaming industry.

    About IGDC

    The India Game Developer Conference (IGDC) is India’s premier event for game developers, organized “By the Industry, For the Industry.” Now in its 16th edition, IGDC serves as a cornerstone of India’s gaming ecosystem, enabling developers to learn from global industry leaders, network with peers, and connect with investors and publishers.

    About KGeN

    KGeN is creating a decentralized gamer network to empower gamers by enabling them to own their data. At the core of KGeN’s platform is the Proof of Gamer (PoG) engine, which allows gamers to build, own, showcase, and monetize their reputation. Game publishers utilize KGeN’s product stack to engage meaningfully with gamer cohorts through its multi-chain gamer network. Kratos Gamer Network operates across India, Brazil, Nigeria, Southeast Asia, and the MENA region.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2096169) Visitor Counter : 73

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mahakumbh 2025: A Dip in the confluence of Spirituality, Indian Culture, and Patriotism – On Republic Day, the ‘Sangam’ will showcase a Patriotic Display

    Source: Government of India

    Mahakumbh 2025: A Dip in the confluence of Spirituality, Indian Culture, and Patriotism – On Republic Day, the ‘Sangam’ will showcase a Patriotic Display

    On the 11th Day of Mahakumbh, Bollywood Singer Sadhana Sargam to perform at the Ganga Pavilion; Classical and Semi-Classical Performances to take Listeners on a Spiritual Journey

    Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 7:27PM by PIB Delhi

    On the 11th day of the Mahakumbh 2025, and the occasion of Republic Day, listeners will experience a dip in the confluence of Spirituality, Indian culture, and Patriotism. The Uttar Pradesh Culture Department has organized performances at all four pavilions—Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, and Triveni—on 26th January. The main event at the Ganga Pavilion will feature Bollywood singer Sadhana Sargam, whose songs will delight the audience.

     

    Diverse Events on Republic Day 2025

    On Republic Day, the Mahakumbh will also host various events. On one hand, the audience will be introduced to Uttar Pradesh’s rural culture through performances like Faruwahi, Birha, and Alha, while on the other hand, people will enjoy the classical and semi-classical performances, including Kuchipudi, Bharatnatyam, Kathak, along with other classical music and dances.  The Main Events on Republic Day include:

     

    Ganga Pavilion:

    • Sadhana Sargam – Bollywood Singer
    • Deepika Reddy (Hyderabad) – Kuchipudi Dance
    • Kala Ramnath (Maharashtra) – Violin, Music Academy Awardee

     

    Triveni Pavilion:

    • Snehalata Mishra (Delhi) – Classical/Semi-Classical Singing
    • Ravishankar Upadhyay (Delhi) – Classical/Semi-Classical Instrumental Performance (Pakhawaj)
    • Kantika Mishra (Lucknow) – Classical/Semi-Classical Dance (Kathak)
    • Ashutosh Pandey (Kanpur) – Bhajan

     

    Yamuna Pavilion:

    • Abha-Vibha Chaurasia (Madhya Pradesh) – Hindustani Vocal
    • Priya Venkataraman (Delhi) – Bharatnatyam Dance
    • Sandeep Malik – Kathak Dance
    • Rajan Tiwari (Banaras) – Bhajan
    • Omkar Nath Awasthi (Unnao) – Alha
    • Sudarshan Yadav (Chandauli) – Birha
    • Pratima Yadav (Ambedkarnagar) – Awadhi Singing
    • Ramhit (Gorakhpur) – Faruwahi
    • Rajnish (Pilibhit) – Tharu Tribal Performance

     

    Saraswati Pavilion:

    • Ashok Bhantia (Mumbai) – Madhav Natak Performance
    • Manoj Yadav (Lucknow) – Bhajan
    • Akhilesh Mishra (Lucknow) – Bhajan

    *****

    AD/VM

     

    (Release ID: 2096214) Visitor Counter : 75

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Proud Moment for Doordarshan: Bestowed with ECI Media Award for voter awareness in Electronic Media (TV) category

    Source: Government of India

    Proud Moment for Doordarshan: Bestowed with ECI Media Award for voter awareness in Electronic Media (TV) category

    Recognised for its impactful coverage, including “Chunav Ka Parv Desh Ka Garv” series during the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 for promoting informed and responsible voting

    Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 7:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Doordarshan is proud to announce that it has been honored with the prestigious award in the Electronic Media category for its 360-degree comprehensive campaign on Voter Awareness and Education. Doordarshan has been recognised for its impactful coverage, including the “Chunav Ka Parv Desh Ka Garv” series during the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, which highlighted the importance of informed and responsible voting.

    DG Doordarshan, Ms. Kanchan Prasad receiving the honour from the President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu

     

    The campaign, conducted across the nation during the Parliamentary Elections 2024, showcased Doordarshan’s commitment to fostering an informed and active citizenry. It encompassed:

    • Innovative Programming: Development and broadcast of 30 voter education short films.
    • Multilingual Outreach: Extensive dissemination across DD National, DD India, and DD News Channels, ensuring messages reached every corner of the country.
    • Engaging Advertisments: Engaging L-band advertisement, Mug Branding and Advertisements (45 sec/spots) aimed at motivating millions to participate in democracy.

    Through its creative and inclusive approach, Doordarshan successfully empowered voters throughout the country, especially first-time participants, to contribute to the democratic process.

    On receiving this honor, Doordarshan reaffirms its dedication to nation-building by continuing to be the trusted voice of the people.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2096231) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State for Defence Shri Sanjay Seth gives away Prizes for National School Band Competition 6.0

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister of State for Defence Shri Sanjay Seth gives away Prizes for National School Band Competition 6.0

    Encourages students to become brand ambassadors of Viksit Bharat of 2047

    Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 9:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Defence, Shri Sanjay Seth, gave away prizes for the National School Band Competition 6.0. Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education, Shri Sanjay Kumar and Additional Secretary,DoSEL, Shri Anandrao V. Patilwere also present at the event.

    Shri Sanjay Seth, while addressing the audience, praised the exceptional performance of the young participants, describing the event as a mini replica of the nation. Highlighting the individual performances of several teams, he urged students to reduce their reliance on mobile devices, as advised by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, and to engage in outdoor activities and creative pursuits. He encouraged the students to become brand ambassadors of the Viksit Bharat of 2047.

    Shri Anandrao V. Patil, in his address, encouraged students to carry forward the message of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, as envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, and to contribute to nation-building with a nation-first approach.

     

     

     

    In the Brass Band – Girls category, Government Sr. Sec. School West Point, Gangtok, Sikkim, secured the First Prize. St. Joseph’s Convent Sr. Sec. School, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, received the Second Prize, while St. Joseph’s Anglo-Indian Girl’s Higher Secondary School, Kozhikode, Kerala, earned the Third Prize. The team from GayatriVidyapeeth, Shantikunj, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, received the Consolation Prize.

    In the Brass Band – Boys category, the First Prize went to Prince Lotus Valley, Sikar, Rajasthan. St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Pathaliyaghat, Sepahijala, Tripura, won the Second Prize, and Pinegrove School, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, secured the Third Prize. The team from St. Xavier’s English Medium School, Pathalgaon, Chhattisgarh, received the Consolation Prize.

    In the Pipe Band – Girls category, the First Prize was awarded to PM SHRI KGBV Patamda, PurbiSinghbhum, Jharkhand. Bhonsala Military School Girls, Nasik, Maharashtra, secured the Second Prize, and Shri ThakurdwaraBalikaVidyalaya, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, earned the Third Prize. The team from Monte CBSE School, Pandipadu Village, KallurMandal, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, received the Consolation Prize.

    In the Pipe Band – Boys category, City Montessori School, Kanpur Road Campus, Sec DLDA Colony, Kanpur Road, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, claimed the First Prize. North Sikkim Academy, Nangan, Sikkim, secured the Second Prize, while RBP Military School Sports Academy, Sangli, Maharashtra, won the Third Prize. PM SHRI KendriyaVidyalaya No. 2, BelagaviCantt., Karnataka, received the Consolation Prize in this category.

    The First Prize-winning teams will receive ₹21,000, while the Second Prize-winning teams will be awarded ₹16,000, and the Third Prize-winning teams will receive ₹11,000. Teams receiving the Consolation Prize will be awarded ₹3,000. In addition to the cash prizes, all winning teams will be presented with a trophy and certificates.

    Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, organised the grand finale of National School Band Competition 6.0 on 24-25 January 2025 at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi. This year 16 band teams from 13 States with 463 children were shortlisted for the finale (list annexed) through State- and Zonal-level competitions. At the State-Level Competitions, 568 teams comprising 13,999 children participated; while at the Zonal Level, 84 teams comprising 2,337 children took part.

    For the first time:

    1.   Band Teams from three government schools have got the opportunity to participate in the Republic Day Parade.

    2.   PM SHRI KGBV Patamda, PurbiSinghbum, Jharkhand school students will be giving their performance at the rostrum in front of the Presidential stage.

    3.   Two band teams (KendriyaVidyalaya and Government Sr. Sec. School West Point, Sikkim) will be performing at Vijay Chowk in the Republic Day Parade.

    4.   In tandem with the “whole of Government approach”, initiative has been taken for training of PM SHRI school band teams by the band instructors/teams of Army Regimental Centres. Training has begun in 11 States/UTs and will commence shortly in the rest of the States/UTs. This is a step towards imparting holistic education to students of PM SHRI schools and developing them into well-rounded personalities.

    The National Education Policy 2020 is the first education policy of the 21st century and aims at large-scale transformational reforms in the education sector. In that direction, this program will not only instil a sense of patriotism and national pride but will also enhance the musical skills of the students and inculcate discipline among them. This initiative aims to rejuvenate the spirit of patriotism and unity amongst school students throughout the country and help in the furtherance of holistic education.

    Joint Secretary, DoSEL, Dr.AmarpreetDuggaland other dignitaries from the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Defence

    *****

    MV/AK

    MOE/DoSEL/24 January 2025/6

    (Release ID: 2096287) Visitor Counter : 17

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Create In India Challenge – Season 1 gathers momentum ahead of World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES)

    Source: Government of India

    Create In India Challenge – Season 1 gathers momentum ahead of World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES)

    Join the Creator Economy: Register now for the Create in India Challenge & showcase your talent on a global platform

    Create in India Challenge surpasses 10,000 Registrations signifying huge enthusiasm across the country

    Nationwide roadshows drive massive engagement for Create in India Challenge, empowering students and industry professionals across key cities

    Posted On: 04 NOV 2024 4:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, is pleased to announce the overwhelming response to the Create In India Challenge – Season 1 (CIC), a precursor to the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES). Building on the mission of WAVES, the Create In India Challenge brings this vision to life by providing a platform for creative expression and innovation.

    CIC is aimed to have a profound impact on India’s Creators’ Economy, empowering content creators, and innovators to showcase their talents, monetize their skills, and contribute to the growth of the Indian media and entertainment industry. It enhances India’s soft power, globally, and serves as a launchpad for India’s emerging creative talent, propelling them towards global recognition.

    Registrations for all the challenges are open on the WAVES website: https://wavesindia.org/challenges-2025

    CIC: A Diverse platform for innovation

    Launched on August 22, 2024, CIC has garnered significant traction nationwide and globally, with 27 challenges, including Truth Tell Hackathon, Comics Creator Championship, Esports Tournament, Trailer Making Competition, Theme Music Competition, XR Creator Hackathon, A.I. Avatar Creator Challenge, Anime Challenge, among others.

    These challenges are spread across various sectors of the Media and Entertainment industry notably Broadcasting, Advertising, Music, AVGC-X,  Digital Media, Social Media, Films, Emerging Technologies and more.

     

    CIC activities on a full swing

    To promote nationwide participation, several successful roadshows were held in collaboration with industry associations. In Hyderabad on September 20, 2024, over 250 participants attended, including 50 industry professionals, with support from the India Game Developer Conference (IGDC). The Chennai VEGAS Fest on September 28 attracted more than 5,000 students emphasizing the importance of the AVGC sector, coordinated by FICCI. The Bangalore roadshow on October 5, co-hosted by the Media & Entertainment Associations of India (MEAI) and the ABAI AVGC Centre of Excellence (CoE), facilitated valuable interactions among 40-50 industry leaders and associations.

    The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is also actively collaborating with upcoming media and entertainment events across India to enhance the outreach of the Create in India Challenge (CIC) Season – 1 and the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) by engaging a broader audience and maximizing the participation within India’s creative industries

    To date, the challenges have received over 10,000 registrations, with numbers growing daily. Building on its success, the Ministry of I&B is planning to host numerous roadshows across India, partnering with higher educational institutions to engage youth and students. This outreach seeks to inspire students and budding creators, helping them realize the potential of creative sectors like digital media, AVGC, and emerging technologies.

    To further amplify the impact of WAVES and the Create in India Challenge, the Ministry is planning an extensive outreach campaign. This includes social media collaborations, domestic roadshows in approximately 28 locations across India and international roadshows in the United States, South Korea, and Japan. These events will foster collaboration, generate excitement, and attract global participation.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2070606) Visitor Counter : 106

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Day 2 of ‘Kaveri Meets Ganga’: A Spectacular Celebration of India’s Cultural Heritage Under Amrit Parampara

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 03 NOV 2024 7:00PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Culture continues its special festival series, Amrit Parampara, a grand initiative to unite India through the shared legacy of art and culture. Following the successful inauguration on 2nd November, the ‘Kaveri Meets Ganga’ program – the first in the Amrit Parampara series – captivated audiences again on its second day at Kartavya Path and CCRT Dwarka, showcasing performances that highlighted India’s traditional and folk arts in the spirit of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat.

    This festival series, jointly organized by the Ministry’s autonomous institutions – Sangeet Natak Akademi, Kalakshetra, and CCRT – brings together the best of South Indian music and dance to North India, while also celebrating artistic traditions from the North. The ‘Kaveri Meets Ganga’ program, held from 2nd to 5th November 2024, is inspired by Chennai’s revered Margazhi Festival, reflecting the diversity of Indian culture through a tribute to its traditional and folk arts.

    The Ministry of Culture is honored to present this series with a focus on reviving traditional art forms, particularly those that are fading. Through the innovative use of immersive technology and modern presentation, Amrit Parampara aims to create unforgettable experiences, honoring India’s artistic heritage and Sardar Patel’s vision of unity in diversity. The two-year commemoration of Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary adds a layer of national pride to the celebrations, connecting his legacy with the festival’s message of unity.

    The second day’s events continued this celebration with a rich lineup of artists who showcased the diversity and unity inherent in India’s cultural heritage.

    At Kartavya Path, the evening opened with an enthralling Shehnai performance by Jagdish Prakash and his group from Delhi, filling the air with auspicious sounds that set the stage for the day’s celebrations. Following this, S. Radhakrishnan on the Saraswati Veena and Mukesh Sharma on the Sarod showcased a mesmerizing instrumental duet, combining the traditions of South and North India. The audience was then treated to an exquisite Carnatic vocal performance by the renowned duo Ranjani and Gayatri from Tamil Nadu, whose harmonies brought an enchanting aura to the venue. The evening concluded with an energetic Kuchipudi performance by Vasant Kiran and artists from Karnataka, bringing vibrant storytelling through classical dance.

    Simultaneously, at CCRT Dwarka, audiences were captivated by the Symphony of Kalakshetra Foundation from Chennai, which highlighted the richness of Carnatic music and the depth of South Indian rhythmic patterns. The Symphony was followed by a Classical Dance Ensemble from CCRT performed by Shri Rahul Varshney and Team Soch from Delhi, who combined dance forms to celebrate the cultural significance of India’s traditions. The evening at CCRT ended on a reflective note with a soulful Bhajan by Sooryagayathri, who brought devotional music to life with her serene and heartfelt voice.

    Amrit Parampara continues to be a remarkable festival experience, providing audiences across Delhi a unique opportunity to engage with India’s classical and folk arts in a modern, engaging setting. With a lineup of performances designed to evoke both pride and nostalgia, the festival fosters a sense of unity and appreciation for the diversity of Indian heritage. The next two days promise an equally memorable journey through India’s cultural landscape. Stay tuned for more updates.

    *****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari/

    (Release ID: 2070467) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Melodic Prelude Sets the Stage for MysuruSangeethaSugandha Festival 2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Melodic Prelude Sets the Stage for MysuruSangeethaSugandha Festival 2024

    Successful Completion of Prequel Events for the MysuruSangeethaSugandha Festival 2024

    Posted On: 02 NOV 2024 11:13PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Tourism today successfully completed the prequel events leading up to the prestigious MysuruSangeethaSugandha Festival 2024. These prequel events, held on 2nd November 2024 at the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Bengaluru; Ramamandiram, Rudrapatna; and Arpreyaswami Temple, Doddamallur, celebrated Karnataka’s rich musical heritage and set the stage for the main festival in Mysuru.

    At NGMA Bengaluru, the event featured an enthralling Carnatic vocal performance by Smt. R.A. Ramamani, whose soulful rendition captivated the audience. The event was graced by Ms. Priyanka Mary Francis, Director of NGMA, as the chief guest. Her presence emphasized the importance of blending art and culture to promote Karnataka’s musical traditions.

     

    In Rudrapatna, known as the cradle of Carnatic music, the Ramamandiram hosted an inspiring flute concert by Vid. AmithNadig and Party, drawing an enthusiastic response from the local community. Ganakalabhushana Vid. Dr. R.K. Padmanabha was the esteemed chief guest, honoring the tradition of music in Rudrapatna and encouraging the continuation of its rich legacy.

     

    At Arpreyaswami Temple, Doddamallur, the day concluded with a divine and spiritually uplifting Carnatic vocal concert by Shri T.V. Ramprasadh ,whose performance resonated with the audience, blending sacredness and melody seamlessly.

    The prequel events have paved the way for the main MysuruSangeethaSugandha Festival, which will be held from 8th to 10th November 2024 at the Karnataka State Open University Convocation Hall, Mysuru. The festival promises an array of captivating performances by acclaimed artists, celebrating Karnataka’s musical heritage and enriching the cultural landscape of Mysuru.

    The Ministry of Tourism invites all music enthusiasts to join in this celebration of tradition and harmony, further showcasing Mysuru as a premier destination for cultural excellence.

     

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari/

    (Release ID: 2070389) Visitor Counter : 27

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Culture presents a special festival series titled ‘Amrit Parampara’ a grand celebration to unite India through art and culture

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Culture presents a special festival series titled ‘Amrit Parampara’ a grand celebration to unite India through art and culture

    ‘Kaveri Meets Ganga’ – First Programme under Amrit Parampara festival series being held from 2nd to 5th November 2024 at Kartavya Path and CCRT

    Sangeet Natak Akademi, Kalakshetra & CCRT, autonomous institutions of Ministry of Culture are jointly organizing the Kaveri Meets Ganga programme

    Posted On: 01 NOV 2024 11:10PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Culture is proud to announce the commencement of a special festival series titled Amrit Parampara, a grand celebration to unite India through art and culture. Amrit Parampara aims to celebrate traditional arts and art forms of India with special focus on declining and dying art forms and traditions across performing arts, visuals arts and literature by curating innovative programs anchored in traditional artforms with modern packaging and technology based interactive and immersive experiences. A series of programs under the umbrella campaign Amrit Parampara are planned across various monuments and locations of Delhi in the near future.

    The first programme under the Amrit Parampara Series is ‘Kaveri Meets Ganga’ which is bringing the best of dance and musical traditions from South India to North India and also showcasing artistic traditions from North India in the spirit of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat. Sangeet Natak Akademi,  Kalakshetra & CCRT, autonomous institutions of Ministry of Culture are jointly organizing the Kaveri Meets Ganga programme.

    Starting on 2nd November 2024 at iconic locations, including Kartavya Path and CCRT Dwarka, the festival will showcase India’s folk and traditional art forms in a captivating series of performances. ‘Kaveri Meets Ganga’ is also a tribute to the essence of the renowned Margazhi Festival, that takes place in Chennai, Tamil Nadu during the Margazhi month of the Tamil calendar.

    Scheduled from November 2nd to 5th at Kartavya Path and the CCRT campus, ‘Kaveri Meets Ganga’ programme will feature a distinguished lineup of traditional performances. Audiences will experience everything from Nagar Sankirtan and Govardhan Puja from Braj to Kuchipudi from Andhra Pradesh, Bharatnatyam by celebrated artists, and folk traditions such as Panchavadyam and Theyyam from Kerala.

    Notable performances by renowned musicians like Rakesh Chaurasiya on flute and Ustad Amjad Ali Khan on sarod, Carnatic vocal by Renjini Gayatri, Bharatanatyam by Rama Vaidyanathan& Minakshi Srinivasan, Symphony by Kalakshetra Chennai promise to make this a truly memorable celebration of India’s cultural diversity.

    2024 also marks the beginning of a two-year commemoration of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Patel, the Ironman of India. This celebration will serve as a testament to his remarkable achievements and the spirit of unity that he epitomized. A country as diverse as India is symbolized by the plurality and diversity of its culture. Each region has its own unique cultural flavour but also integrates seamlessly to be part of the tapestry of Indian culture much like Sardar Patel’s vision of India.

    Shri Dr. S. Jaishankar, Hon’ble Minister of External Affairs of India, will grace the event with his presence joining esteemed artists and dignitaries in celebrating the cultural richness of India.

    Highlights of the Inaugural Day on 2nd November 2024 at Kartavya Path & CCRT:

    The Amrit Parampara series has been designed to promote the continuity of India’s cultural legacy through four key pillars: the foundation of Bharatiya Sanskriti, a blend of cultural education and entertainment, the synthesis of diverse ideas, and a multi-sensory experience.

    Each performance will celebrate this commitment by highlighting the art forms and cultural expressions that embody India’s timeless spirit. With its immersive, technology-driven approach, Amrit Parampara will provide audiences with an innovative and sensory experience, blending traditional artistry with modern-day presentation.

    Join us at Kartavya Path and CCRT as we begin a journey to celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing our artistic unity and diversity. The Amrit Parampara festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, bringing together art, history, and innovation.

    ****

    SKT/

    (Release ID: 2070257) Visitor Counter : 30

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor reports distressed pension assistance program has protected benefits for more than 1.2M workers, retirees, families

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced that its Employee Benefits Security Administration has issued a report illustrating how the American Rescue Plan has protected the financially distressed pension plans of more than 1.2 million U.S. workers, retirees and their families, ensuring they receive the retirement benefits they earned. 

    The department’s report on the impact of the Butch Lewis Emergency Pension Relief Act finds that, as of October 2024, more than $69 billion in Special Financial Assistance has been approved for 98 multiemployer pension plans whose participants faced reductions in retirement benefits averaging 41 percent. The report also shows the American Rescue Plan already has provided more than $1.6 billion in restorative payments and ongoing benefit payments to more than 121,000 retirees, an average of about $13,600 per retiree. Almost half of the $1.6 billion reversed retirees’ previous benefit reductions.

    “A pension is more than a number on a sheet of paper; it’s the ability to stop working after years of making a good, honest living, to rest your aching knees and aching backs, and to go to bed without setting an alarm clock. A pension isn’t given. It’s earned,” said Acting Secretary Julie Su. “The Biden-Harris administration’s American Rescue Plan has already delivered on the promise of ensuring a secure and dignified retirement for more than 1.2 million workers and retirees, and there’s still more to come. We ultimately expect pension plans covering more than two million workers and retirees to remain solvent and able to pay out full benefits for the next several decades.”

    Special Financial Assistance has safeguarded plan benefits for union workers and retirees in many industries, including nearly 620,000 Teamsters, more than 152,000 in the United Food and Commercial Workers International, over 103,000 Bakery and Confectionery workers, more than 89,000 United Steelworkers, over 50,000 Communications Workers of America, as well as 49,000 union musicians and 29,000 carpenters.

    The pension protection legislation in the American Rescue Plan was named for the late Butch Lewis, a former Teamster who fought to protect union retirees’ pensions from harsh benefit cuts through no fault of their own. Ultimately, the act is expected to ensure roughly two million workers’ and retirees’ pension plans remain solvent and able to pay full benefits workers earn through at least 2051.

    Read the EBSA report on Special Financial Assistance. 

    Read a White House fact sheet on the impact of the Butch Lewis Act.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS RELEASE: “RESCUE: HI-SURF” EPISODE DIRECTED BY NATIVE HAWAIIAN FILMMAKER ERIN LAU TO AIR NOVEMBER 4 ON FOX

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    NEWS RELEASE: “RESCUE: HI-SURF” EPISODE DIRECTED BY NATIVE HAWAIIAN FILMMAKER ERIN LAU TO AIR NOVEMBER 4 ON FOX

    Posted on Nov 1, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

     

     CREATIVE INDUSTRIES DIVISION

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    JAMES KUNANE TOKIOKA

    DIRECTOR

    GEORJA SKINNER

    CHIEF OFFICER, CREATIVE INDUSTRIES DIVISION

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    November 1, 2024

    “RESCUE: HI-SURF” EPISODE DIRECTED BY NATIVE HAWAIIAN FILMMAKER ERIN LAU TO AIR NOVEMBER 4 ON FOX 

    Hawai‘i hires for the hit series earned more than $31 million in total wages; workforce training also provided to local interns 

     

    HONOLULU – The pulse-pounding new drama “Rescue: HI-Surf,” a co-production of John Wells Productions, Warner Bros. Television and FOX Entertainment, continues to further opportunities for Hawai‘i’s creative talent. Native Hawaiian filmmaker Erin Lau directs the seventh episode of the North Shore O‘ahu-set series as it follows the personal and professional lives of local lifeguards. Airing on FOX November 4, 2024, the episode marks Lau’s directorial debut in the network television space, furthering her impressive writer/director/producer credits across high-profile branded content and award-winning short films.

    Exploring themes of redemption, legacy and identity, Erin Lau’s dynamic body of work is known for empathetic storytelling. Since graduating from Chapman University’s MFA program, she has honed her craft through opportunities with the Sundance Institute, Tribeca Studios and Women in Film among others. Lau’s work has screened at more than 50 film festivals globally. Her Chapman thesis, “The Moon and the Night,” received support from the Sundance Native Lab and the Criterion Channel. Her short film, “Inheritance,” premiered at the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival and won the Oscar-qualifying Best Hawai‘i Short Award at the 42nd Hawai‘i International Film Festival. Through Jubilee Media, Lau has directed content for global brands such as Google. 

    “I am incredibly grateful for the support from our local film community and the collective of organizations and advocates that have helped me grow as a filmmaker and are empowering even more voices,” shares Lau. “Opportunities like this are essential for our emerging artists, and I’m thrilled to be part of ʻRescue: HI-Surf’ as it celebrates Hawai‘i’s creatives and stories.”

    Lau joins over 2,100 local cast and crew that have been part of the first season of “Rescue: HI-Surf,” collectively earning more than $31.75 million in wages. The series inspired by the water men and women of Hawai‘i has additionally invested more than $33.85 million in the local economy through food purchases, lodging, equipment and office rentals and goods and services from local vendors. Production is also championing the next generation of creative workers, bringing on local interns across various departments and offering hands-on experience in roles as production assistants.

    Said Georja Skinner, chief officer, Creative Industries Division (CID) at the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), “’Rescue: HI-Surf’ has made a significant step in providing Erin this opportunity to direct television. Already an accomplished, award-winning filmmaker, she is committed to her community to see others realize their dreams. The series not only authentically captures the courage and care of Hawai‘i’s lifeguard community but is also creating valuable workforce opportunities for local creatives on a network series.”

    “Rescue: HI-Surf” airs on Mondays at 8 p.m. in Hawai‘i on FOX affiliate KHON-TV. 

    The teaser trailer of the new “Rescue: HI-Surf” episode and photos of Erin Lau’s journey as a filmmaker in Hawai‘i are available here.

    About Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) 

    DBEDT is Hawai‘i’s resource center for economic and statistical data, business development opportunities, energy and conservation information as well as foreign trade advantages. DBEDT’s mission is to achieve a Hawai‘i economy that embraces innovation and is globally competitive, dynamic and productive, providing opportunities for all Hawai‘i’s citizens. Through its attached agencies, the department fosters planned community development, creates affordable workforce housing units in high-quality living environments and promotes innovation sector job growth.

    About Creative Industries Division (CID)  

    CID, a division within DBEDT, is the state’s lead agency dedicated to advocating for and accelerating the growth of Hawai‘i’s creative economy. Through initiatives, program development and strategic partnerships, the division and its branches implement activities to expand the business development, global export and investment capacity of Hawai‘i’s arts, culture, music, film, literary, publishing, digital and new media industries. As a major branch of CID, the Hawai‘i Film Office (HFO) was established as the one-stop central coordinator for film and photographic use of state-administered parks, beaches, highways, and facilities and is committed to developing Hawai‘i’s film industry, which provides desirable jobs for residents, as well as opportunities to build the creative and technical skillsets of the local workforce.    

    # # # 

    Media Contacts: 

    Laci Goshi
    Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism
    808-518-5480 

    [email protected]

    Georja Skinner

    Chief Officer, Creative Industries Division
    Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism

    808-586-2590 
     [email protected]

    Susan Wright 

    Becker Communications 

    808-799-4293 

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Descartes Sets Date to Announce Third Quarter Fiscal 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WATERLOO, Ontario, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Descartes Systems Group (TSX: DSG) (Nasdaq: DSGX), the global leader in uniting logistics-intensive businesses in commerce, is scheduled to report its third quarter fiscal 2025 financial results after market close on Tuesday, December 3, 2024.

    Members of Descartes’ executive management team will host a conference call to discuss the company’s financial results at 5:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. Designated numbers are +1 289 514 5100 and +1 800 717 1738 for Toll-Free in North America, using conference ID 07584.

    The company will simultaneously conduct an audio webcast on the Descartes website at www.descartes.com/descartes/investor-relations. Phone conference dial-in or webcast log-in is required approximately 10 minutes beforehand.

    Replays of the conference call will be available until December 10, 2024, by dialing +1 289 819 1325 or Toll-Free for North America using +1 888 660 6264 with Playback Passcode: 07584#. An archived replay of the webcast will be available at www.descartes.com/descartes/investor-relations.

    About Descartes Systems Group
    Descartes is the global leader in providing on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions focused on improving the productivity, security, and sustainability of logistics-intensive businesses. Customers use our modular, software-as-a-service solutions to route, track and help improve the safety, performance and compliance of delivery resources; plan, allocate and execute shipments; rate, audit and pay transportation invoices; access global trade data; file customs and security documents for imports and exports; and complete numerous other logistics processes by participating in the world’s largest, collaborative multimodal logistics community. Our headquarters are in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and we have offices and partners around the world. Learn more at www.descartes.com, and connect with us on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).

    Descartes Investor Contact
    Laurie McCauley
    (519) 746-2969
    investor@descartes.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Corero Network Security plc to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Corero Network Security plc (LSE: CNS; OTCQX: DDOSF), a leading provider of distributed denial of service (DDoS) protection solutions, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Corero Network Security plc upgraded to OTCQX from the OTCQB® Venture Market.

    Corero Network Security plc begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “DDOSF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    The OTCQX Market is designed for established, investor-focused U.S. and international companies. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws. Graduating to the OTCQX Market from the OTCQB Market marks an important milestone for companies, enabling them to demonstrate their qualifications and build visibility among U.S. investors.

    Carl Herberger, Chief Executive Officer at Corero, commented, “We are delighted to commence trading on OTCQX and further expand our reach and visibility into the US investor market. This is an exciting step in the Corero growth journey, recognizing the effort and value generated by the entire Corero team and the support of our growing international shareholder base.”

    About Corero Network Security plc
    Corero Network Security is a leading provider of distributed denial of service (DDoS) protection solutions. We are specialists in automatic detection and protection solutions, that include network visibility, analytics, and reporting tools. Corero’s technology provides scalable protection capabilities against both external DDoS attackers and internal DDoS threats, in even the most complex edge and subscriber environments, ensuring internet service availability and uptime. Corero’s key operational centres are in Marlborough, Massachusetts, USA, and Edinburgh, UK, with the Company’s headquarters in London, UK. The Company is listed on the London Stock Exchange’s AIM market under the ticker CNS and trades on the OTCQX Market under the Ticker DDOSF. For more information visit www.corero.com

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.
    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market and Pink® Open Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN and OTC Link NQB are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

    To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Write for Rights: Amnesty launches annual letter-writing campaign to help people imprisoned for speaking truth to power

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Amnesty International launches flagship Write for Rights campaign to help people facing human rights abuses around the world

    Millions of letters and emails will be sent to support these individuals and urge authorities to end injustices

    ‘Sending a letter or email might seem like a small act, but when sent in their thousands they can change lives: those in power are forced to take notice’ – Sacha Deshmukh

    Amnesty International is calling on people across the UK to take part in its flagship letter writing campaign, Write for Rights, in support of individuals from around the world who have been persecuted, jailed, or face human rights abuses for standing up for their rights.

    This year, Write for Rights will support nine individuals who are suffering abuses, including:

    Ana da Silva Miguel, also known as Neth Nahara, was arrested in August last year after broadcasting a video on TikTok criticising President João Lourenço. The next day, Angola’s first stage court convicted her of an “outrage against the state, its symbols and bodies”. She was sentenced to six months in prison and fined one million kwanza (approximately $1,200). Last September, Angola’s second stage court extended Neth’s sentence to two years, following an appeal by the public prosecutor. During her imprisonment, authorities denied Neth her daily HIV medication for eight months, which severely impacted her health.

    Oqba Hashad, an Egyptian business student, has been arbitrarily detained for nearly five years without trial solely because of his brother’s human rights activism. Despite a court order for his release, he remains detained in horrific conditions, including being denied a proper prosthetic leg. Prison authorities have interrogated Oqba on multiple occasions about his brother’s activism and contact with his family. Egypt, as a state party to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, must ensure detainees with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation and health services.

    Professor Şebnem Korur Fincancı, head of the Turkish Medical Association, faces more than seven years in prison because of her human rights work. Professor Fincancı is a prominent human rights defender, anti-torture advocate and forensic medicine expert. In October 2022, she was arrested and put in pre-trial detention. A criminal investigation was launched against her after she called for an independent investigation into allegations that Turkish armed forces might have used chemical weapons in Kurdistan Region of Iraq in comments during a live TV interview. Professor Fincancı was later convicted of trumped-up charges of “making propaganda for a terrorist organisation”. She is currently awaiting the result of an appeal, but also faces additional charges linked to her human rights work.

    Sacha Deshmukh, Chief Executive of Amnesty International UK, said:

    “The people we have focused on this year are all imprisoned because the governments of their countries value power over free speech. By joining this campaign, people in the UK – and indeed around the world – can help improve their chances of getting justice.

    “Sending a letter or email might seem like a small act, but when sent in their thousands they can change lives: those in power are forced to take notice. 

    “Amnesty’s Write for Rights campaign helps to protect the lives of persecuted people every year. We hope to see people across the country getting involved to make as much noise as possible about the injustices these human rights defenders are facing.”

    Amnesty International’s Write for Rights campaign goes back to the roots of the organisation, which was founded in 1961, with early campaigners writing letters of support to those affected by human rights abuses, as well as letters of concern to governments around the world.

    Successes from previous Write for Rights campaigns:

    Human rights defender Rita Karasartova was arrested in 2022 along with 26 others for opposing a new border agreement that gave control of a freshwater reservoir to Uzbekistan. She was initially detained for organising ‘mass disorder’ and later charged with attempting to ‘violently overthrow the Government’, which carries a potential 15-year sentence. Rita and at least 21 others were acquitted on 14 June this year: a significant victory for justice and human rights in Kyrgyzstan, even though the prosecutor has filed an appeal against the ruling.

    She subsequently expressed her gratitude for the countless letters she received from Amnesty supporters during the campaign, emphasising that each one gave her immense hope and strength, reinforcing her belief in the power of solidarity.

    In 2021, Amnesty campaigned for Egyptian human rights lawyer Mohamed Baker, who received a presidential pardon in July last year and was released from prison the following day. He is now safely reunited with his loved ones.

    Cecillia Chimbiri and Joanah Mamombe were acquitted by the Zimbabwean High Court in July 2023 of communicating falsehoods and obstructing the course of justice. The two – together with Netsai Marova, who did not face trial as she is out of the country – were arrested and abducted in May 2020 following a protest on the Government’s failure to provide social protection during the Covid 19 pandemic. Amnesty campaigned for them during the 2022 Write for Rights campaign.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Cop16: the world’s largest meeting to save nature has ended with no clear path ahead

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Harriet Bulkeley, Professor of Geography, Durham University

    Increasing rights for Indigenous people and local communities was one of the few steps forward at Cop16. Philipp Montenegro, CC BY-NC-ND

    Progress at the UN’s biodiversity summit, Cop16, in Cali, Columbia, has been slow. Frustratingly so.

    There were high hopes that the Colombian hosts could coordinate action between developed and developing countries towards reaching the landmark global biodiversity agreement reached in Montreal, Canada at Cop15 two years ago. But after two weeks and one long night, negotiations ended abruptly. Many delegates had to leave to catch flights home with key issues unresolved.

    This conference started with alarming news that the latest edition of the red list – the official record of threatened species – shows that more than one third of tree species face extinction in the wild. That’s more than the number of threatened birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians combined.

    Urging negotiators to recognise the seriousness of this nature crisis, Colombia’s president Gustavo Petro warned they were facing “the battle for life”.

    There was certainly no shortage of people seeking solutions.

    In the heart of the city, Cop16’s green zone hosted vibrant music, film screenings, indigenous arts and crafts. Local people, businesses and conference delegates discussed creative and collaborative ways to address the nature crisis.

    Over in the blue zone, the official conference space, there was a notable increase in the diversity of communities participating across side events and pavilions. The links between biodiversity and human health were highlighted. So too was the importance of nature for water and food security.

    In his opening video message, UN secretary general Antonio Guterres urged countries gathered to “engage all of society” as “la Cop de la gente” (a Cop of the people).

    So protests from Indigenous people and local communities were particularly powerful. Including greater recognition for these groups in the final decisions from the meeting was a rare sign of progress. A new fund to ensure that these groups would receive a share of the profits from the commercial use of digital sequence information – genetic information from native plants and animals – was another victory.

    A new set of principles developed by the UK government to prioritise gender issues in conservation and ensure fair access to the benefits biodiversity action for all marginalised groups received widespread support.

    The focus on economic resilience was more prominent than ever, with two days dedicated to business and finance. In 2018, only 300 businesses attended Cop14 in Egypt. In Cali, this number was 3,000.

    Delegates assemble for the negotiations at Cop16​.
    Philipp Montenegro, CC BY-NC-ND

    Private investors, pension funds, the insurance industry and public banks stressed the importance of creating robust measures of biodiversity improvement. Business sectors focused on transition plans that could support fair and transparent means of reporting progress. The nature tech sector is growing too, with start-ups expected to attract up to $2 billion (£1.5 billion) in investments by the end of 2024.

    Back in the negotiating halls, delegates faced an uphill struggle. Only 44 out of 196 national plans to protect biodiversity have been updated to reflect the new targets. So, it’s no surprise that a gap is widening between current reality and the ambitious set of 23 targets which governments must reach by 2030. While countries agreed to a progress review in 2026, no consensus was reached on the indicators to be used. Progress was painfully slow.

    Negotiators debated how the global agreement on biodiversity should interact with its sister conventions on climate and desertification. Further discussions next year might identify how this could work but this probably won’t lead to drastic change. Some countries, including India and Russia, still seemed unwilling to accept the critical risks posed to nature and society of exceeding the 1.5°C global target for climate change.

    Many developing nations were concerned that greater integration between the climate crisis and biodiversity would lead to “double counting” of funding with the danger that developed countries could backtrack on their promises to support dedicated action on nature. Others, including the EU, argued that action to conserve and restore nature was an essential part of tackling all environmental and societal global challenges.

    The deadlock between these positions continued for days. In the final hours of Cop16, negotiators reached a compromise that sets out a more integrated pathway for bringing action on climate and nature together. While the effects of climate change directly exacerbate biodiversity loss, restoring nature can be a powerful tool in the fight to mitigate the climate crisis and benefit biodiversity. Nature-based solutions – measures like restoring peatlands and wetlands, planting trees and mangroves – help build that resilience.

    Heads of state and ministers joining at the midpoint of the meeting pointed out the need to ensure that nature is protected both for its own sake and for the communities that depend on healthy ecosystems for their livelihood and wellbeing.

    But at the end of a long final night, these words were not accompanied by concrete plans for action or the financial commitments about how nature protection should be paid for that many at Cop16 were hoping for.

    Whole of society, all of government?

    The global biodiversity agreement set in 2022 called for a whole of society approach to address the nature crisis. Cop16 certainly delivered. From local communities to huge businesses, there was a spirit of rolling up sleeves and putting investment and innovation to work using nature-based solutions to restore and conserve biodiversity.

    One of many packed side-events which bought the ‘whole of society’ together at Cop16.
    Philipp Montenegro, CC BY-NC-ND

    The same energy and commitment was clear from many of the local and sub-national governments assembled at Cop16. The first gathering of Mayors for Nature demonstrated significant commitment to action.

    Leaders from California and Quebec set the tone by investing in large-scale programmes, with Quebec not only committing to fund their own biodiversity action but also contributing to the global biodiversity fund – the first regional government to do so.

    But national governments struggled to move forward. The complexity of addressing biodiversity and its necessary interactions with sectors such as agriculture, transport and mining, as well as concerns over historic injustices between developing and developed countries, was perhaps too much for Cop16 to resolve.

    The risk is that, as governments navigate these challenges, the private sector could accelerate action without scrutiny. I worry that the lack of policy coordination could deter investors and slow the pace of action that local communities and regional governments want to make. Rather than waiting for global consensus, groups can catalyse change while holding each other accountable to make swift progress to save nature.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Harriet Bulkeley receives funding from the European Commission and currently serves as an advisor to the UK Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

    – ref. Cop16: the world’s largest meeting to save nature has ended with no clear path ahead – https://theconversation.com/cop16-the-worlds-largest-meeting-to-save-nature-has-ended-with-no-clear-path-ahead-242160

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Paddington gets a British passport – but the Home Office treats real refugees very differently

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Katie Tonkiss, Senior Lecturer in Sociology and Policy, Aston University

    Chris Dorney/Shutterstock

    To say that Paddington Bear is a beloved British icon would be something of an understatement. The Peruvian bear, who arrived at Paddington station with nothing but his suitcase, a love of marmalade sandwiches and a luggage tag reading “please look after this bear”, was created by Michael Bond in the 1958 classic A Bear Called Paddington.

    Bond went on to write 29 Paddington books, and the bear has appeared in TV adaptations for nearly 50 years. The 2014 Paddington film was launched to much acclaim, leading to a sequel in 2017. Paddington even appeared with Queen Elizabeth II during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022, cementing his status as a quintessential symbol of British identity.

    In the third film, premiering November 8, Paddington will visit Peru in search of his dear Aunt Lucy. As part of the marketing campaign for the new film, the UK Home Office has granted Paddington his own British passport.

    What can Paddington Bear’s citizenship journey teach our leaders?

    Join The Conversation UK and migration experts in London on November 16 for a screening of Paddington Peru and a discussion on migration, citizenship and belonging.

    Click here for more information and tickets.

    “We wrote to the Home Office asking if we could get a replica, and they actually issued Paddington with an official passport,” one of the film’s producers said. “You wouldn’t think the Home Office would have a sense of humour, but under official observations, they’ve listed him as Bear.”

    Arriving from Peru in need of help, Paddington is often afforded the status of refugee-in-chief – even immortalised in Banksy artwork. Bond was inspired by Jewish refugees arriving in the UK from Europe during the second world war when he created the character.

    In being granted British citizenship, Paddington has fared far better than most people arriving in the UK in need of help. Under the current system, asylum seekers must navigate a complex process, often over many years, in which they are disbelieved, excluded and stigmatised. A third of all people seeking asylum in the UK are refused at their initial application.

    Should they manage to be granted refugee status, after five years they may apply for indefinite leave to remain. Should that be granted, after another year they may apply for citizenship status. For this to be granted, the applicant must be able to prove language skills, have passed the “life in the UK” test and be shown to be of “good character”.

    Giving Paddington a passport is an unsettling display of double standards from the same Home Office that has overseen the hostile environment and other harsh asylum policies. The Home Office has made conditions in the UK as difficult as possible for people settling from overseas and has subjected people arriving in the UK to seek asylum – much like Paddington – to delays, detention, destitution and deportation.

    In its treatment of the Windrush generation, the Home Office has deported people who have legally lived and worked all their lives in the UK – and has failed to compensate victims. For the Home Office then to issue a passport to a fictional character as a publicity stunt is, to put it mildly, problematic.



    Read more:
    Through its immigration policies, the UK government decides whose families are ‘legitimate’

    The ‘deserving’ migrant

    At the same time, the whole episode is a very clear reflection of how access to British citizenship really works. Access to British citizenship for people arriving in need of safety depends on proving yourself to be deserving of refugee status, and then of citizenship status.

    Research has shown that people tend to see child refugees (like those who inspired Bond to create Paddington) as the most deserving of help. Paddington has also shown himself to integrate into the British way of life, sipping tea and eating marmalade sandwiches in a cosy duffel coat and wellies.

    This supposedly deserving refugee contrasts against those seen as undeserving – most often men of colour who are seen as “invading” in “swarms”. Until recently, anyone who arrived in the UK on a boat (as Paddington did) to claim asylum would be at risk of being sent to Rwanda to have their claims processed. Keir Starmer has indicated his openness to similar offshoring deals.

    The stunt also highlights how valuable a commodity British citizenship has become. While people from the Windrush generation and their descendants worked and paid taxes in the UK all their lives, only to be told that they weren’t really British, citizenship is far easier to acquire for those on investor visas, which require a £2 million investment in the UK.

    The citizenship acquisition process itself is also expensive, costing upwards of £5,000 per application. While most refugees will struggle to get British citizenship, for Paddington it came relatively easily as an investment in the UK film industry.

    I won’t begrudge Paddington his passport. He’s waited long enough for the security and stability of a status denied to so many non-citizens around the world. However, this stunt has highlighted both the double standards of a hostile Home Office attempting to create the illusion of benevolence, and the realities of a citizenship acquisition process which continually fails the vulnerable.

    Katie Tonkiss receives funding from the Economic and Social Research Council.

    – ref. Paddington gets a British passport – but the Home Office treats real refugees very differently – https://theconversation.com/paddington-gets-a-british-passport-but-the-home-office-treats-real-refugees-very-differently-241988

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Lite Hits 6 Million Users in Days, Now The Largest Telegram Wallet

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, a leading non-custodial Web3 wallet, has launched Bitget Wallet Lite, a multi-chain wallet integrated into Telegram, offering users a seamless, secure way to purchase, manage, and transfer crypto assets directly within the messaging app. Since its soft launch on October 28th, Bitget Wallet Lite has attracted over 6 million users, becoming one of the fastest-growing Web3 wallets on Telegram.

    Supporting over 100 blockchains, including Solana, TRON, TON, and EVM chains, Bitget Wallet Lite enables rapid cross-chain transactions for streamlined asset management. Users can purchase BTC, ETH, USDT, and hundreds of other cryptos with over 40 fiat currencies directly in the wallet. With a one-click setup — no recovery phrases needed — the wallet seamlessly connects to users’ Telegram accounts for easy access across devices. Users can effortlessly send and receive crypto among their Telegram contacts, view their transaction history for transparent asset tracking, and interact with DApps directly from the wallet, unlocking new opportunities to explore and earn within the decentralized ecosystem.

    Bitget Wallet Lite is a non-custodial wallet that prioritizes security and user control, giving users full ownership over their assets. The wallet combines multiple layers of encryption with Telegram’s security infrastructure, ensuring that no third parties can access a user’s recovery phrases without authorization. This approach securely stores mnemonic phrases in the cloud, integrating Telegram’s safeguards with advanced encryption methods.

    “Our early success with Bitget Wallet Lite is a result of a comprehensive strategy to engage Telegram communities directly,” shared Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “Through an early-user rewards campaign on Telegram, we created urgency for users to experience the best opportunities Bitget Wallet Lite offers. Collaborations with popular mini-apps like Tomarket also expanded our reach, while our referral program fostered rapid, community-driven growth by rewarding users for sharing the experience with others. Together, these initiatives have built substantial momentum for Bitget Wallet Lite.”

    Currently in its early version, Bitget Wallet Lite plans to introduce features such as token swaps, wallet imports, and unique rewards like airdrops, red envelopes, and mystery boxes. Bitget Wallet Lite has also partnered with Morph, a fully permissionless EVM Layer 2, marking its first major ecosystem collaboration. This partnership allows all Morph projects to integrate with the wallet, offering developers essential resources to launch and scale for the mass market.

    As multi-chain DApp features improve, Bitget Wallet Lite will fully replicate the ecosystem of the Bitget Wallet app, allowing users to connect to tens of thousands of DApps and integrate seamlessly with Telegram Mini-Apps through the OmniConnect protocol. The upgraded OmniConnect SDK version 2.0 offers a secure and intuitive multi-chain integration that creates opportunities for developers to incorporate wallets into mini-apps, facilitating encrypted transactions while generating new revenue streams, enabling them to focus on building high-quality applications.

    With over 40 million users, Bitget Wallet is the most downloaded Web3 wallet, dedicated to driving Web3 adoption. The launch of Bitget Wallet Lite is a key step toward comprehensive coverage, allowing one billion Telegram users to engage with the multi-chain ecosystem and easing their transition from Web2 to Web3. This year, Bitget Wallet’s integration with Telegram and the TON ecosystem has spurred substantial growth and innovation, including enhanced login methods for MPC keyless wallets via Telegram, extending MPC technology to the TON mainnet, and introducing Telegram trading bots for instant trades and the OmniConnect SDK for seamless connections between Telegram mini-apps and over 500 blockchains.

    Looking ahead, Bitget Wallet plans to launch a Telegram mini-app support program, including an ecosystem fund with technology and marketing support to empower developers in enhancing the overall Web3 user experience. Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet, stated, “Our goal is to onboard the next billion users into Web3. Bitget Wallet Lite simplifies crypto management within Telegram and reflects our commitment to continuous innovation that empowers financial freedom for everyone.”

    Experience Bitget Wallet Lite: https://t.me/BitgetWallet_TGBot

    About Bitget Wallet

    Bitget Wallet is the home of Web3, uniting endless possibilities in one non-custodial wallet. With over 40 million users, it offers comprehensive on-chain services, including asset management, instant swaps, rewards, staking, trading tools, live market data, a DApp browser, and an NFT marketplace. Designed for everyone from beginners to advanced traders, it supports mnemonic, MPC, and AA wallet options. With connections to over 100 blockchains, 20,000+ DApps, and 500,000+ tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges, along with a $300 million protection fund for your digital assets.

    Experience Bitget Wallet Lite to start your Web3 journey.

    For more information, visit: Twitter | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4f13c7ca-002d-4e36-b839-0b11c94fcd0a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Planning approval paves way for new Wolverhampton city centre leisure hub anchored by Superbowl UK

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    It will enable an estimated £500,000 of landlord works to be completed by Catella APAM’s sustainable retrofit and principal contracting business, Vantage, on the 17,000 sq. ft. space across multiple units.

    Superbowl UK, renowned for its premier entertainment and leisure experiences, will establish a new mixed use concept venue, featuring 12 bowling lanes, Crazy Club Soft Play area, interactive darts, a bar and diner, and SEGA Prize Zone Arcade, which will open in early 2025.

    Superbowl UK’s new mixed use concept creates a vibrant leisure hub on Victoria Arcade and Victoria Street, building on the council’s recent transformation works to pedestrianise Victoria Street.

    Superbowl UK’s exciting plans to bring this empty retail space back to life align to the council’s vision for the city centre – based on better connectivity, more homes, jobs, skills and learning opportunities and investment in the visitor economy – and demonstrates how town and city centre retail can be adapted to create a more vibrant city centre.

    The benefits of this approach are already showing with independent tourism STEAM data highlighting an increase of visitors to the city from 9.8 million to over 10 million last year.

    Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “This is exactly the type of new development our extensive works on Victoria Street were designed to attract and it will be great to see works starting on site soon now that planning approval has been granted.

    “The scheme provides a major boost to the city centre’s leisure offer for residents and visitors, creates jobs for local people, increases footfall and dwell time to support current and emerging businesses, and complements plans coming forward for major regeneration around the Market Square area in partnership with the ECF.

    “The Superbowl UK investment, will ensure the currently vacant retail space will be occupied, boosting the local economy, and creating 30 new job opportunities for residents, including management positions and guest experience hosts.

    “The development will also serve as a catalyst for further investment, and the council continues to work with Catella APAM on attracting other new leisure and food and beverage occupiers, to capitalise on their confidence in the city.”

    Harry Wilce, Asset Manager at Catella APAM, said: “We are delighted to welcome Superbowl UK to the Mander Centre as the main anchor for our leisure offer to improve the customer offer at the centre and extend the operating hours, generating significant increase in footfall for the city centre.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Ambassador Blackbird Wins Best in API Coding/Design Tools

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ambassador, the API development company, will have their new API development platform, Blackbird recognized at API World as the winner of the Best in API Coding and Design Tools category.

    The 10th annual API Awards celebrate the incredible technical innovation, reception, and solutions in the global API and software integration industry.

    “Today’s digital enterprise and consumer apps are increasingly powered by API-centric architecture and platforms. Blackbird API Development Platform’s win here at the 2024 API Awards is evidence of their leading role in the growth of the global API ecosystem,” said Jonathan Pasky, Executive Producer & Co-Founder of DevNetwork, producers of the API World conference & the 2024 API Awards.

    The independent, expert-led DevNetwork API Advisory Board selected award winners based on criteria including technical innovation, attracting notable attention and awareness in the API industry, and general regard and use by the API and integration ecosystems and communities.

    Ambassador will be presented with its 2024 API Award during API World 2024 tomorrow, November 5, at the Santa Clara Convention Center. API World is the world’s largest international API and integration conference, with over 250 speakers and more than 50 global partners.

    Ambassador will be at Booth #507 during the conference, hosting various giveaways, demos, and more. They also have a variety of challenges for Blackbird at the API World and Cloud X Hackathon, and the winners of those will be announced at the end of the conference.

    “We’re thrilled to see Blackbird recognized on a global stage like API World. In just a month since its general release, we’ve seen remarkable growth and adoption—an early indicator of Blackbird’s potential to redefine API development—making it faster, easier, and more effective than ever. ” shares Ambassador CEO Steve Rodda.

    Blackbird is now generally available for subscription. Blackbird accelerates companies’ progress toward their innovation goals by accelerating the creation, collaboration, testing, and deployment of APIs in modern tech environments.

    Already deemed a 2024 Digital Innovator by Intellyx and referenced in APIdays 2024 State of the API Market report, Blackbird is already making waves. In its first year of release, Blackbird also already garnered an honorable mention in the Magic Quadrant for API Management 2024.

    Blackbird joins the suite of Ambassdor’s other flagship products, Edge Stack API Gateway and Telepresence. All of Ambassador’s products serve to accelerate development, expedite testing, and optimize the delivery of API resources. Blackbird is generally available now (getblackbird.io) for the public and the CLI can be downloaded here.

    ABOUT AMBASSADOR
    Ambassador offers a suite of products designed to deliver API developer experiences that fuel innovation. These products, Blackbird API Development Platform, Edge Stack API Gateway, and Telepresence, accelerate development, expedite testing, and optimize the delivery of API resources. Founded in 2014, Ambassador is a remote company backed by top investors, including Insight Partners and Four Rivers Group. Learn more at www.getambassador.io.

    Contact info:
    Bailey DeCamillis
    Marketing Manager
    bailey@datawire.io

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Magnite Gets Highest Score for ‘Current Offering’ in Leading SSP Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the largest independent sell-side advertising company, was recognized with the highest score in the current offering category of the ten vendors evaluated in The Forrester Wave™: Sell-Side Platforms, Q4 2024 report. The report, authored by Forrester Senior Analyst Mo Allibhai, cites Magnite’s strength in streaming channels and demand facilitation expertise. In addition, Magnite received Forrester’s highest rating possible in 18 criteria, including Innovation, Desktop & Mobile Display, Open Standards & Transparency, Inventory Quality, and Deployment, Training & Ongoing Support.

    “More than ever, publishers need partners that have an eye to the future and whose every decision is geared to help them win,” said Adam Soroca, Chief Product Officer at Magnite. “We believe this recognition validates our leadership not just in streaming and our expertise in driving unique demand, but in a broad range of categories. In fact, we are honored to have been given the highest ratings possible in more categories than any other vendor evaluated. Thank you to the Magnite team for their hard work in building a series of offerings that are truly exceptional.”

    Read the full report here to see the detailed evaluation.

    Other key takeaways from The Forrester Wave™:

    • Magnite received more 5/5 ratings than any other vendor evaluated, and was the only vendor to receive a 5/5 rating in two criteria, User Interface and Supporting Services and Offerings.
    • Forrester noted Magnite’s technical competence in supporting monetization across online video, audio, mobile app, and complex media such as major event live streams.
    • The report also mentioned Magnite’s deep knowledge of how to leverage signal partnerships to build addressability solutions in new environments.

    About Magnite
    We’re Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the world’s largest independent sell-side advertising company. Publishers use our technology to monetize their content across all screens and formats including CTV, online video, display, and audio. The world’s leading agencies and brands trust our platform to access brand-safe, high-quality ad inventory and execute billions of advertising transactions each month. Anchored in bustling New York City, sunny Los Angeles, mile high Denver, historic London, colorful Singapore, and down under in Sydney, Magnite has offices across North America, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC.

    Media Contact:
    Charlstie Veith
    cveith@magnite.com
    516-300-3569

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Alarum Achieves Significant Milestone; Fortune 200 Company Adopts its Website Unblocker Solution Following a Large-scale Evaluation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The customer, operating a multi-million cross-region network, is set to gain best-in-class data-driven capabilities, positioning itself to achieve sustained market leadership, by subscribing to both NetNut’s IPPN and Website Unblocker offerings

    TEL AVIV, Israel, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alarum Technologies Ltd. (Nasdaq, TASE: ALAR) (“Alarum” or the “Company”), a global provider of internet access and web data collection solutions, today announced the expansion of its recently established relationship with a leading global Fortune 200 company, which has subscribed to the newly rolled-out Website Unblocker from NetNut, in addition to Internet Protocol Proxy Network (IPPN). The customer, operating a multi-million cross-region network, and a multi-billion US Dollar business, will enhance automation and customer spending while gaining a competitive edge.

    To facilitate seamless access to public web information, NetNut’s Website Unblocker utilizes advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to simulate authentic user environments, enhancing data retrieval consistency from public online sources. The selection of NetNut’s Website Unblocker, which followed extensive evaluations and analysis by the leading global Fortune 200 company, is clear testament to its superiority.

    Alarum empowers businesses to gain a competitive edge and improve efficiencies by leveraging its robust and growing NetNut network. Being a global data frontrunner provider, Alarum enables organizations to efficiently and successfully collect large volumes of data, seamlessly analyze, and extract structured data at scale. As part of the company’s overarching strategy, it is actively working to integrate AI and advanced analytics to deliver the utmost comprehensive data insights.

    “In the third quarter of 2024, the customer, a Fortune 200 company, initially subscribed to our IPPN product and less than three months later added the unique Website Unblocker, marking an important milestone in realization of our strategy,” said Mr. Shachar Daniel, Chief Executive Officer of Alarum. “The Website Unblocker is essential to Alarum’s long-term growth plans for penetrating the multi-billion-dollar Data Collection and Labeling Market. It provides our customers with enhanced data access and improved operational efficiency, enabling them to penetrate new markets, better understand their customers’ behavior and optimize their strategies. We see a growing pipeline of opportunities for our Website Unblocker, which has been tested and rated as a market leader by various industry experts,” Mr. Daniel concluded.

    Alarum’s strategy and long-term vision is focused on three growth engines: Increasing market share in the IP Proxy Network (IPPN) segment, penetrating the Data Collection and Labelling Market, and providing its customers with Data Insights. With its innovations, the Company continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in its industry.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates” and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. For example, Alarum is using forward-looking statements in this press release when when discussing its anticipated growth strategy, including plans for expanding market share in the IP Proxy Network segment, establishing product development timelines for the Website Unblocker and IPPN solutions, projecting the benefits these solutions may deliver to customers, and anticipating customer adoption rates, as well as addressing Alarum’s potential to enhance automation processes, improve customer spending, and achieve competitive advantages within the data collection market. Because such statements deal with future events and are based on Alarum’s current expectations, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties and actual results, performance or achievements of Alarum could differ materially from those described in or implied by the statements in this press release. The forward-looking statements contained or implied in this press release are subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Alarum’s annual report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 14, 2024, and in any subsequent filings with the SEC. Except as otherwise required by law, Alarum undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. References and links to websites have been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such websites is not incorporated by reference into this press release. Alarum is not responsible for the contents of third-party websites.

    About Alarum Technologies Ltd.

    Alarum Technologies Ltd. (Nasdaq, TASE: ALAR) is a global provider of internet access and web data collection solutions. The solutions by NetNut, our enterprise internet access and web data collection arm, are based on our world’s fastest and most advanced and secured hybrid proxy network, enabling our customers to collect data anonymously at any scale from any public sources over the web. Our network comprises both exit points based on our proprietary reflection technology and hundreds of servers located at our ISP partners around the world. The infrastructure is optimally designed to guarantee privacy, quality, stability, and the speed of the service.

    For more information about Alarum and its internet access and web data collection solutions, please visit www.alarum.io.

    Follow us on Twitter

    Subscribe to our YouTube channel

    Investor Relations:

    investors@alarum.io

    The MIL Network –