Category: Environment

MIL-OSI Economics: Plastics Pollution Dialogue advances discussion on key focus areas towards MC14 outcome

Source: WTO

Headline: Plastics Pollution Dialogue advances discussion on key focus areas towards MC14 outcome

The three issues discussed at the meeting are critical in tackling the challenges of plastics pollution while ensuring trade remains a solution to this global issue. Two other key areas – capacity building for developing members and the potential creation of domestic inventories of trade-related plastic measures – were addressed by participating delegations on 18 September.
Transparency
Delegations examined how to enhance transparency of plastics trade flows, including by supporting the work at the World Customs Organization (WCO), the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and other relevant institutions. UNITAR updated members on its work to develop statistical guidelines for measuring flows of plastics throughout their life cycle, including estimates for plastics embedded in goods.
A discussion among participants focused on how domestic efforts can contribute to better identifying flows of plastics entering and exiting members’ economies and to what degree they rely on specific breakdowns of Harmonized System (HS) codes. Delegations were asked to provide examples of estimates, data or labelling requirements of average plastics content or plastic material composition in goods used in their respective economies, including for statistical purposes or to support the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which makes producers responsible for the entire life cycle of their products.
Delegations shared insights on how to improve transparency, monitoring and understanding of trade flows throughout the value chain of plastics, including flows of single-use plastics, plastic film and hard-to-recycle plastics.
Potential best practices
The WTO Secretariat delivered a presentation on technical discussions held at DPP meetings on the efficiency of measures to address plastics pollution, as well as information available in the DPP survey on trade-related plastics measures (TrPMs) regarding existing mechanisms.
The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) presented its paper “Avoiding Trade Concerns in the Design of Plastic Pollution Measures”, which provides insights into aspects of WTO members’ plastics measures that have created friction with trading partners. The paper suggests recommendations for the adoption of suitable policies in the future.
Delegations discussed guidelines and criteria that should be taken into consideration when identifying potential best practices for TrPMs and were asked to provide concrete examples. They also explored whether the voluntary development of domestic inventories of TrPMs could be useful to increase internal coordination, help improve transparency and coherence, and facilitate implementation and trade. Such inventories could also support cooperative and effective trade policies, aligning with actions outlined in the statement adopted at the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi in February 2024.
Access to technologies and services
The discussion on access to technologies and services started with a presentation by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) on challenges and opportunities for trade in services for the prevention and mitigation of plastics pollution. This was followed by a presentation by the Forum on Trade, Environment and the SDGs (TESS) on challenges and opportunities for trade in technologies related to plastics pollution. Delegations also benefited from a presentation by the Council on Economic Policies on the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Non-Binding Guidelines on Services that Support the Clean-up of Marine Debris.
Several key questions were discussed – for example, the specific technologies and services, including for environmentally sound waste management, which would be particularly useful for addressing plastics pollution from a trade perspective.
Members also discussed the relevant trade policy tools, main trade barriers and challenges for accessing such technologies and services, including for developing members and least developed countries (LDCs). Additionally, delegations addressed what could be done under the DPP to help facilitate access to such technologies and services and to promote cooperation on trade that contributes to ending plastics pollution.
Participants acknowledged that extensive technical work has been done on the three key areas under discussion and considered potential proposals that could be incorporated into the DPP to further these objectives, aiming at producing concrete MC14 outcomes.
Participating delegations agreed that these discussions are pivotal in shaping the agenda for the next Ministerial Conference and ensuring that trade contributes meaningfully to addressing one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Next meeting
The next DPP meeting will address the following areas: how to support the work at the United Nations Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastics pollution; how to identify opportunities for greater harmonization, alignment, or interoperability of TrPMs; and how to identify opportunities for enhanced trade cooperation on non-plastic substitutes and alternatives, starting with standards.

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MIL OSI Economics –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cortez Masto Announce Over $375 Million for Recreation, Conservation Projects Across Nevada

US Senate News:

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

LAS VEGAS, NV – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) announced more than $375 million is coming to Nevada to fund 36 different projects aimed at enhancing recreational opportunities, protecting public lands, conserving wildlife habitat, and more. The funding comes through the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act (SNPLMA), which ensures that revenues from public lands sales in Clark County return to Nevada to support conservation and recreation projects throughout local communities. Both senators have been long-time supporters of SNPLMA funding and the work it does to help support and conserve Nevada’s lands and outdoor spaces.
“Nevada is one of the states with the most public land, and it’s our responsibility to safeguard those outdoor spaces for future generations,” said Senator Rosen. “This funding will help enhance conservation efforts, expand recreational opportunities, and improve wildfire mitigation efforts. I’ll continue working across the aisle to preserve Nevada’s natural beauty.”
“The SNPLMA program delivers critical support to Nevada, and this funding will boost our outdoor recreation economy, conserve our water, and prevent wildfires,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “These investments will reach every corner of the state, including our rural communities, and I’ll keep working to deliver more resources for Nevada.”
The projects include acquiring land to protect endangered species; helping increase recreational access in Strawberry Creek at Great Basin National Park; and investing in outdoor recreation facilities in Churchill County, Lincoln County, and the City of Las Vegas. Additionally, five percent of the revenue generated by SNPLMA land sales goes to the State of Nevada General Education Fund and 10 percent goes to the Southern Nevada Water Authority.
Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto have been champions for Nevada’s outdoor spaces. As part of the Great American Outdoors Act, which the Senators helped pass, they secured permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which protects public lands in Nevada and across the country.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Oil and gas greenhouse gas pollution cap – Backgrounder to CGI Regulations
Source: Government of Canada News

Backgrounder

The oil and gas sector is experiencing record profits within Canada

November 4, 2024

Context

The proposed oil and gas greenhouse gas (GHG) pollution cap will incentivize the sector to invest in technically achievable decarbonization to attain significant emission reductions by 2030-2032. The policy will put the sector on a pathway to carbon neutrality by 2050, while enabling it to continue to respond to global demand.

Oil and gas companies in Canada have proven repeatedly that they can innovate and develop new technologies to produce more competitive oil and gas with less pollution.

While it continues to be a major supplier to global markets, Canada’s oil and gas sector has the opportunity to reinvest in its own competitiveness ahead of the anticipated future decline in global demand for oil and gas in a low-carbon future. Reinvesting in cleaner oil and gas production ensures that the sector contributes its fair share to GHG reductions in Canada and positions Canada for a stronger future for its workers and economy.

The oil and gas sector is experiencing record profits within Canada. Coming out of the pandemic, operating profits in the oil and gas sector increased tenfold from $6.6 billion in 2019 to $66.6 billion in 2022. Despite that, there has been limited and declining overall investment in the sector in Canada over the last several years.

The proposed Regulations would establish a cap-and-trade system that is designed to recognize producers with better emission performance and motivate higher-polluting facilities to reinvest record profits into more pollution-reducing projects.

The oil and gas sector is a major contributor to Canada’s economy. In 2023, the sector generated $209 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) (PDF) and accounted for 25% of Canada’s exports (valued at $177 billion). It is also a major employer across the country, directly employing 181,800 people in 2023.

The oil and gas sector is also Canada’s largest source of GHG pollution, responsible for 31% of Canada’s GHG emissions in 2022. Decreasing emissions in the oil and gas sector by introducing a cap on GHG pollution is necessary to ensure that the sector contributes its fair share to Canada’s ongoing efforts to tackle climate change and reach our GHG emission reduction targets and international commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Strengthening emission performance and carbon management technologies in Canada’s oil and gas sector

Canada’s oil and gas sector has the potential to be a supplier of choice as the demand for oil and gas for combustion declines in a low-carbon future. This would enable the sector to continue to be a major employer and source of economic activity across Canada, particularly in oil- and gas-producing regions.

The proposed Regulations put a limit on pollution, not production. The proposed Regulations are carefully designed around what is technically achievable within the sector, while enabling continued production growth in response to global demand. In fact, modelling shows that Canadian oil and gas production is projected to increase 16% between 2019 and the 2030-2032 period with the proposed Regulations in place.

Major emissions-reduction opportunities are available, and oil and gas producers are already investing in them. Methane is a particularly potent greenhouse gas, and most methane emissions represent a wasted resource because they are from leaks and other unintended sources. Preventing methane emissions is one of the lowest-cost ways to reduce GHG emissions, and the sector’s efforts have resulted in a steady decline in these emissions. New regulations to be finalized later this fall will ensure that the sector continues to cut methane emissions by at least 75% from 2012 levels by 2030.

Carbon capture is also going to play an increasingly important role in reducing emissions from oil and gas production, and Canada is well placed to cement its position as a global leader in this critical technology. According to both the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the International Energy Agency (IEA), there is no credible path to carbon neutrality without carbon management technologies, such as carbon capture and storage, and their deployment must be rapid and immense, scaling up by nearly 200 times by 2050.

The shift toward a low-carbon economy has created a rush of capital toward carbon management technologies worldwide. In the United States, there are many new carbon capture projects being deployed, with 150 currently under review at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Canada has already established itself as a first mover and leader in the global carbon management sector, with some of the world’s first large-scale projects; favourable geology; cutting-edge innovators and start-ups; early investments in research, development, and demonstration; deep technical expertise; a robust policy and regulatory environment at the federal and provincial levels; and active international collaboration. The Government of Canada has launched a suite of policies with a mix of financial supports and regulatory measures to better position Canada’s economy for success.

Approximately one-sixth of the world’s active large-scale carbon management projects, which use a range of approaches to capture carbon dioxide from point sources or directly from the atmosphere to be reused or durably stored, can be found in Canada, with a growing number in the construction, design and development phase across multiple sectors and regions.

The continued development and deployment of carbon management technologies to help achieve Canada’s climate objectives will form the basis of a world-leading, multi-billion-dollar carbon management sector in Canada that supports inclusive, high-value employment, significant export opportunities and a more sustainable economy.

Point-source carbon capture is a leading option for deep emissions reductions from the upstream oil and gas sector. Given the long lifespan of many existing heavy industrial facilities and the value of these industries to the Canadian economy, public-private collaboration is critical to advance strategic, economical, and regionally appropriate decarbonization pathways.

The GHG oil and gas pollution cap adds to a suite of policy measures, which are designed to shift the oil and gas industry increasingly toward cleaner production through the use of carbon management systems and other technologies, including to reduce methane emissions and to switch to cleaner fuels. Those include other successful regulatory measures, such as federal, provincial, and territorial carbon pricing systems for industry, including Alberta’s TIER system, the federal Output-Based Pricing System, federal and provincial methane regulations, and the Clean Fuel Regulations.

They also include a wide range of financial supports to support deployment and help develop the innovation ecosystem for carbon reduction technologies in Canada, including:
- $319 million over 7 years for RD&D to advance the commercial viability of emerging carbon management technologies.
- Refundable CCUS Investment Tax Credit (ITC), expected to provide $12.5 billion between 2022-2023 and 2034-2035, for eligible projects that enable permanent CO2 storage.
- The Canada Growth Fund, totalling $15 billion, offers investment tools such as contracts for differences designed to address risk and accelerate private sector investment to grow Canada’s clean economy, including in the carbon management sector.
- Strategic Innovation Fund, with $8 billion in funding to help companies reduce emissions and grow their business sustainably.
- The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) invests in CCUS infrastructure projects, including through its Project Acceleration funding for front-end engineering and design (FEED) capital expenditures.
Increasingly, large-scale carbon capture projects are being built in both the oil and gas sector and other sectors. Recent projects include:
- Strathcona Resources, an oilsands company with assets in Saskatchewan and Alberta and Canada’s fifth-largest oil producer, is launching a $2 billion project to store up to two million tonnes of CO2 per year, while creating hundreds of new jobs. The project has received support from the Canada Growth Fund.
- Entropy, an Alberta-based company, is working on a project that will enable emissions reductions of approximately 2.8 million tonnes over 15 years and support more than 1,200 good jobs for Albertans.
- Shell announced two new projects in Alberta: the Polaris Carbon Capture project and the Atlas Carbon Storage Hub. These projects aim to reduce industrial emissions by transitioning to cleaner technology. The Polaris project will capture approximately 650,000 tonnes of carbon a year while the Atlas project will store the captured carbon from Polaris and potentially other industrial facilities in the future. Once complete in 2028, these projects are expected to generate up to 2,000 jobs for Albertans.
- The North West Redwater (NWR) Sturgeon Refinery, also operating in the Alberta Industrial Heartland, is the world’s first bitumen refinery built with carbon capture.
- The Alberta Carbon Trunk Line (ACTL), which transports captured carbon from facilities for storage in oil fields, will be used by new carbon capture projects throughout the province to transport captured CO2 to final storage sites.
- Linde announced an investment of more than $2 billion to build a clean hydrogen facility that will supply Dow’s Path2Zero production complex in Alberta. The facility will capture more than 2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year for sequestration.
Extensive consultation to date on the oil and gas GHG pollution cap

The Government of Canada has engaged a broad range of partners and stakeholders on the oil and gas GHG pollution cap, including provinces and territories, Indigenous partners, industry, environmental groups, and Canadians. The government has held webinars, convened meetings, and published discussion papers to seek input and feedback. Since November 2021, the government has received over 250 written submissions from organizations, held over 100 meetings, and hosted seven public webinars.

The government published a Regulatory Framework to Cap Oil and Gas Sector GHG Emissions in December 2023. This Framework confirmed the government’s intent to implement the oil and gas GHG pollution cap through a new cap-and-trade system, and proposed various regulatory design features, including which subsectors would be covered by the oil and gas GHG pollution cap, the level of the GHG pollution cap, and rules about flexible compliance options.

The proposed Regulations are carefully designed based on what is technically achievable in the sector, setting a limit on pollution, not production. Technically achievable emissions reductions were estimated based on an assessment of the abatement technologies that could feasibly be deployed within the upstream and LNG activities in the oil and gas sector by 2030-2032, considering the status of available technologies, projected levels of production, the availability of equipment and labour, and timelines for permitting and approvals.

Estimates of technically achievable reductions included reductions related to compliance with the strengthened methane regulations, installation of carbon capture and storage technology, and electrification. The risk that not all technically achievable reductions would be implemented in time for the first compliance period was also taken into consideration.

The government has now published proposed Regulations (PDF) to implement the oil and gas GHG pollution cap, and invites input from November 9, 2024, to January 8, 2025. The government will continue to engage with partners and stakeholders in the development of final regulations.

Key components of the proposed national cap-and-trade system for oil and gas greenhouse gas pollution

The proposed Oil and Gas Sector Greenhouse Gas Emissions Cap Regulations (proposed Regulations) would establish a national cap-and-trade system that would apply to upstream oil and gas activities including onshore and offshore oil and gas production; oil sands production and upgrading; natural gas production and processing; and the production of LNG.

The proposed Regulations have been developed under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA). Since 1988, CEPA has been used to address a wide range of environmental issues, including air pollution, chemicals, plastics and GHG emissions.
- The cap-and-trade system will freely allocate emissions allowances to facilities covered by the system. At the end of each year, each facility will need to remit to the government one allowance for each tonne of carbon pollution it has emitted. Over time, the government will give out fewer allowances, corresponding to the declining emissions cap.
- Operators will face an ongoing incentive to reduce their emissions. If an operator does not have enough allowances to cover their emissions, they will be able to buy allowances from other operators that have invested in pollution reduction. Operators can also contribute to a decarbonization program or use GHG offset credits to cover a small portion of their emissions (up to 10% for the decarbonization program and up to 20% for offsets, for a maximum of 20% for both options). The decarbonization program would fund projects that support the reduction of emissions from the sector. The total of all allowances and the overall 20% limit on compliance flexibility creates a legal upper bound on emissions from the sector.
- The oil and gas GHG pollution cap will limit emissions, not production, and will encourage industry to reinvest into projects that lower pollution while providing flexibility to respond to changes in the global market.
- To make sure the oil and gas GHG pollution cap accounts for current activity levels, the proposed Regulations would use data reported by operators for 2026 to set the first oil and gas GHG pollution cap level. The oil and gas GHG pollution cap for the first compliance period, 2030-2032, would be set at 27% below emissions reported for 2026, which is estimated to be equivalent to 35% below 2019 emissions.
- Using 2026 for reported data means the oil and gas GHG pollution cap would be based on real-world conditions. The final oil and gas GHG pollution cap level would be published before the end of 2027.
- The proposed Regulations allocate allowances to covered operators using specified distribution rates—defined in allowances per unit of production—for each type of covered activity. Allowances will be distributed before the start of each year (starting in 2029 for 2030, the first compliance year). To ensure that allowances are distributed to the level of the emissions cap for each year, the allowances distributed would be pro-rated across all facilities receiving them.
The system would be phased in for the first four years (2026-2029). During that period, operators would be required to register and report their emissions and production. Large emitters will start reporting in 2027 for their 2026 emissions and production levels. Reporting for small operators would start in 2029 for their 2028 levels. Operators would need to submit verified annual reports to Environment and Climate Change Canada for their facilities for every calendar year. Reports would be due on June 1 of the following year. The reports would be used to identify which operators will be subject to the pollution cap and have remittance obligations.

Annual reports would include the GHG emissions attributed to the facility and the production amount by industrial activity. The Quantification Methods for the Oil and Gas Sector Greenhouse Gas Emissions Cap Regulations (the Quantification Methods) would define methods to calculate each source of emissions and would provide certain default values. In addition to the draft regulations, the government is seeking feedback on the Quantification Methods.

All operators would be required to register and report, but only large operators (producing above an annual threshold of 365,000 barrels of oil equivalent) would have to remit allowances to cover their emissions. Large operators account for approximately 99% of the upstream sector’s emissions. The government would distribute emissions allowances to covered operators annually, before the start of each compliance year. Allowances would be pro-rated across all covered operators’ facilities based on historical production volumes. Allowances would not be able to be used for compliance under other carbon pricing systems, such as the federal Output-Based Pricing System (OBPS). There would be no limits to the number of allowances operators covered under the oil and gas GHG pollution cap could hold, and allowances could be traded among operators.

Emissions allowances and offsets could be banked for use in a limited number of future years. Decarbonization units would not be tradable or bankable.

Economic impacts of the proposed Regulations

Environment and Climate Change Canada undertook an economic cost-benefit analysis of the proposed Regulations. Costs and benefits have been evaluated relative to a baseline that assumes production in the oil and gas sector grows, existing federal and provincial GHG measures remain in place, and the sector achieves the 75% reduction in methane emissions relative to 2012 levels, as a result of the forthcoming oil and gas methane regulations.

The proposed pollution cap Regulations are estimated to result in net cumulative GHG emission reductions of 13.4 Mt above the baseline of reductions between 2025 and 2030-2032 that will be achieved by existing measures. That incremental reduction is valued at almost $4 billion in avoided global climate change damages. When compared to the costs, modelling showed that the proposed Regulations are estimated to have net benefits of $428 million for Canada.

Importantly, this multi-million-dollar benefit does not account for a wide range of additional benefits likely to be associated with the proposed Regulations, including:
- the additional economic activity and jobs associated with post-2032 investments in carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) and other major decarbonization activities;
- the stimulation of innovation and new low-carbon industries, such as clean hydrogen;
- the economic and health benefits of reducing air pollution, which will improve the quality of life for many people and reduce the strain on our healthcare systems; and
- the longer-term competitiveness benefits of a decarbonized Canadian oil and gas sector in a world that continues to take action to fight climate change and adhere to existing international and domestic climate commitments.
The oil and gas sector directly and indirectly supports a significant workforce, especially in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Modelling for the 2019 to 2030-2032 period shows that labour expenditure in the sectors covered by the proposed Regulations is expected to grow by 53%, which is only slightly below the 55 % growth in the baseline scenario.

Additionally, jobs in clean energy will continue to grow. A 2023 Clean Energy Canada report found that Canada will see 700,000 more energy jobs in a carbon-neutral 2050 scenario than we have today. 419,000 of these jobs will be in Alberta, representing three jobs for every individual worker employed in Alberta’s upstream energy sector as of 2022.

Oil and gas prices correspond to global market demand, and they do not typically reflect the cost of production. As such, the risk of compliance costs passed through from the oil and gas sector to Canadians is very low, and the proposed Regulations are not expected to affect the cost of everyday items such as fuel or groceries.

Provincial leadership

British Columbia previously announced it will put in place an oil and gas emissions cap to serve as a backstop to the federal policy. The goal will be to meet BC’s greenhouse gas emission reduction targets and avoid regulatory duplication and administrative burden for the oil and gas sector.

Alberta, in its Emissions Reduction and Energy Development Plan (2023), communicated its goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and signalled it would explore options to achieve a 75-80% reduction in methane emissions from conventional oil and gas by 2030. Alberta has had a price on carbon emissions since 2007, making it the first jurisdiction in North America to price carbon. The province’s industrial carbon pricing system, implemented as set out in the Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) Regulation, recycles its proceeds to invest in emissions reduction projects including in the oil and gas sector, such as methane emissions abatement.

Saskatchewan is a leader in carbon capture and sequestration technology, with several projects aimed at capturing CO2 emissions from oil and gas production. In 2014, the Boundary Dam project became the first power station in the world to successfully use carbon capture and storage technology. The province is also addressing methane emissions, including improving leak detection and repair practices and implementing best practices for gas flaring and venting.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore oil sector is already one of the lowest-emitting in the country. The newest planned production project—Bay du Nord—was approved with the historic requirement for the project to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. Like all other oil- and gas-producing provinces, NL implements a price on industrial carbon emissions via its provincial output-based pricing system.

Note on third party reports

The Government of Canada is aware of third-party reports conducted by Conference Board of Canada, Deloitte and S&P.

These reports are based on a broad range of assumptions including elements of the previously published Regulatory Framework or, in some cases, other assumptions made by the authors. A common assumption found in the reports was that the oil and gas sector would take limited to no additional action to reduce emissions without the regulations.

These reports do not reflect an accurate analysis of the current draft regulations. The Government of Canada welcomes continued sharing of analysis to help refine the proposed Regulations.

MIL OSI Canada News –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NASA, Bhutan Conclude Five Years of Teamwork on STEM, Sustainability

Source: NASA

NASA and the Kingdom of Bhutan have been actively learning from each other and growing together since 2019. The seeds planted over those years have ripened into improved environmental conservation, community-based natural resource management, and new remote sensing tools.
Known for its governing philosophy of “gross national happiness,” [Bhutan] has a constitutional mandate to maintain at least 60% forest cover. The government’s goals include achieving nationwide food security by 2030.
Bhutan first approached the U.S. State Department to partner on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) opportunities for the country, and NASA was invited to help lead these opportunities. In 2019, Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck visited NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley, California, and was introduced to several NASA programs.
NASA’s Earth scientists and research staff from several complementary programs have helped support Bhutan’s goals by providing data resources and training to make satellite data more useful to communities and decision makers. Bhutan now uses NASA satellite data in its national land management decisions and plans to foster more geospatial jobs to help address environmental issues.
Supporting Bhutan’s Environmental Decision Makers
Bhutan’s National Land Commission offers tax breaks to farmers to support food security and economic resilience. However, finding and reaching eligible farmers on the ground can be expensive and time consuming, which means small farmers in remote areas can be missed.
A team from SERVIR – a joint NASA-U.S. Agency for International Development initiative – worked with Bhutanese experts to create decision-making tools like the Farm Action Toolkit (FAcT). The tool uses imagery from the NASA-U.S. Geological Survey Landsat satellites to identify and measure the country’s farmland. SERVIR researchers met with agricultural organizations – including Bhutan’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, National Statistics Bureau, and National Center for Organic Agriculture – to adjust the tool for the country’s unique geography and farming practices. The Land Commission now uses FAcT to identify small farms and bring support to more of the country.
NASA also develops local capacity to use Earth data through efforts like the Applied Remote Sensing Training Program (ARSET). In early 2024, ARSET staff worked with SERVIR and Druk Holdings and Investments (DHI) to host a workshop with 46 Bhutanese government personnel. Using tailored local case studies, the teams worked to find ways to better manage natural resources, assist land use planning, and monitor disasters.
“We look forward to continuing this collaboration, as there are still many areas where NASA’s expertise can significantly impact Bhutan’s development goals,” said Manish Rai, an analyst with DHI who helped coordinate the workshop. “This collaboration is a two-way street. While Bhutan has benefited greatly from NASA’s support, we believe there are also unique insights and experiences that Bhutan can share with NASA, particularly in areas like environmental conservation and community-based natural resource management.”

Encouraging Bhutan’s Future Environmental Leaders
By working with students and educators from primary schools to the university level, Bhutan and NASA have been investing in the country’s future environmental leadership. Supporting educators and “training trainers” have been pillars of this collaboration.
NASA and Bhutan have worked together to boost the skills of early-career Earth scientists. For example, NASA’s DEVELOP program for undergraduates worked directly with local institutions to create several applied science internships for Bhutanese students studying in the U.S.
Tenzin Wangmo, a high school biology teacher in Bhutan, participated in DEVELOP projects focusing on agriculture and water resources. According to Wangmo, the lessons learned from those projects have been helpful in connecting with her students about STEM opportunities and environmental issues. “Most people only think of NASA as going to space, rather than Earth science,” she said. “It was encouraging to my students that there are lots of opportunities for you if you try.”
NASA is also supporting Bhutan’s future environmental leadership through the GLOBE (Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment) Program. The GLOBE program is a U.S. interagency outreach program that works with teachers to support STEM literacy through hands-on environmental learning. Since 2020, GLOBE has worked through the U.S. State Department and organizations like the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Forest Research and Training to support educators at two dozen schools in Bhutan. The program reached more than 650 students with activities like estimating their school’s carbon footprint.
This focus on STEM education enables students and professionals to contribute to Bhutan’s specific development goals now and in the future.
Sonam Tshering, a student who completed two DEVELOP projects on Bhutanese agriculture while studying at the University of Texas at El Paso, was able to share the value of these efforts at the 2023 United Nations Climate Conference. “By applying satellite data from NASA, we aimed to create actionable insights for our local farmers and our policymakers back in Bhutan,” she said.
By Jacob Ramthun and Lena Pranksy, SERVIR Communications Team, and Jonathan O’Brien, ARSET Communications Team
News Media Contact
Lane FigueroaMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala.256.544.0034lane.e.figueroa@nasa.gov

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: A new science synthesis for public lands land management of the effects of noise from oil and gas development on raptors and songbirds

Source: US Geological Survey

The USGS is working with federal land management agencies to develop a series of structured science syntheses (SSS) to support National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) analyses. This new synthesis is the third publication in the SSS series and provides science to support NEPA analyses for agency decisions regarding oil and gas leasing and permitting.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: Par Pacific Holdings Reports Third Quarter 2024 Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HOUSTON, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Par Pacific Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: PARR) (“Par Pacific” or the “Company”) today reported its financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2024.

Net Income of $7.5 million, or $0.13 per diluted share
Adjusted Net Loss of $(5.5) million, or $(0.10) per diluted share
Adjusted EBITDA of $51.4 million
Record logistics financial results driven by record refining throughput
Liquidity increased by $112.1 million while repurchasing $21.9 million of common stock

Par Pacific reported net income of $7.5 million, or $0.13 per diluted share, for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, compared to $171.4 million, or $2.79 per diluted share, for the same quarter in 2023. Third quarter 2024 Adjusted Net Loss was $(5.5) million, compared to Adjusted Net Income of $193.4 million in the third quarter of 2023. Third quarter 2024 Adjusted EBITDA was $51.4 million, compared to $255.7 million in the third quarter of 2023. A reconciliation of reported non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures can be found in the tables accompanying this news release.

“Our third quarter financial results reflect a challenging summer refining margin environment,” said Will Monteleone, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Despite the cyclical downturn, refining system throughput set a quarterly record, our retail and logistics segments delivered consistently strong financial results, and our Hawaii SAF project has entered the construction phase. We are focused on improving operating and capital efficiency while prioritizing safe and reliable operations.”

Refining

The Refining segment reported operating income of $19.0 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $194.8 million in the third quarter of 2023. Adjusted Gross Margin for the Refining segment was $142.2 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $350.6 million in the third quarter of 2023.

Refining segment Adjusted EBITDA was $20.1 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $233.6 million in the third quarter of 2023.

Hawaii
The 3-1-2 Singapore Crack Spread was $11.00 per barrel in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $23.39 per barrel in the third quarter of 2023. Throughput in the third quarter of 2024 was 81 thousand barrels per day (Mbpd), compared to 82 Mbpd for the same quarter in 2023. Production costs were $4.58 per throughput barrel in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $4.50 per throughput barrel in the same period of 2023.

The Hawaii refinery’s Adjusted Gross Margin was $6.10 per barrel during the third quarter of 2024, including a net price lag impact of approximately $5.1 million, or $0.68 per barrel, compared to $13.47 per barrel during the third quarter of 2023.

Montana
The RVO Adjusted USGC 3-2-1 Index averaged $14.14 per barrel in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $29.65 in the third quarter of 2023. The Montana refinery’s throughput in the third quarter of 2024 was 57 Mbpd, compared to 55 Mbpd for the same quarter in 2023. Production costs were $11.61 per throughput barrel, compared to $10.83 per throughput barrel in the same period of 2023.

The Montana refinery’s Adjusted Gross Margin was $12.42 per barrel during the third quarter of 2024, compared to $26.49 per barrel during the third quarter of 2023.

Washington
The RVO Adjusted Pacific Northwest 3-1-1-1 Index averaged $15.48 per barrel in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $35.00 per barrel in the third quarter of 2023. The Washington refinery’s throughput was 41 Mbpd in the third quarter of 2024, compared to 41 Mbpd in the third quarter of 2023. Production costs were $3.50 per throughput barrel in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $3.77 per throughput barrel in the same period of 2023.

The Washington refinery’s Adjusted Gross Margin was $1.76 per barrel during the third quarter of 2024, compared to $12.30 per barrel during the third quarter of 2023.

Wyoming
The RVO Adjusted USGC 3-2-1 Index averaged $14.14 per barrel in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $29.65 per barrel in the third quarter of 2023. The Wyoming refinery’s throughput was 19 Mbpd in the third quarter of 2024, compared to 20 Mbpd in the third quarter of 2023. Production costs were $7.00 per throughput barrel in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $6.46 per throughput barrel in the same period of 2023.

The Wyoming refinery’s Adjusted Gross Margin was $13.65 per barrel during the third quarter of 2024, including a FIFO impact of approximately $(4.7) million, or $(2.63) per barrel, compared to $37.01 per barrel during the third quarter of 2023.

Retail

The Retail segment reported operating income of $18.3 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $13.3 million in the third quarter of 2023. Adjusted Gross Margin for the Retail segment was $42.6 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $38.2 million in the same quarter of 2023.

Retail segment Adjusted EBITDA was $21.0 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $16.7 million in the third quarter of 2023. The Retail segment reported sales volumes of 31.2 million gallons in the third quarter of 2024, compared to 31.1 million gallons in the same quarter of 2023. Third quarter 2024 same store sales fuel volumes decreased by (1.4)% while merchandise revenue increased by 3.8%, compared to third quarter of 2023.

Logistics

The Logistics segment reported operating income of $26.2 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $20.7 million in the third quarter of 2023. Adjusted Gross Margin for the Logistics segment was $36.3 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $35.3 million in the same quarter of 2023.

Logistics segment Adjusted EBITDA was $33.0 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $29.1 million in the third quarter of 2023.

Liquidity

Net cash provided by operations totaled $78.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, including working capital inflows of $67.2 million and deferred turnaround expenditures of $(15.6) million. Excluding these items, net cash provided by operations was $26.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024. Net cash provided by operations was $269.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. Net cash used in investing activities totaled $(28.3) million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, consisting primarily of capital expenditures, compared to $(5.7) million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. Net cash used in financing activities totaled $(46.8) million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $(92.9) million for the three months ended September 30, 2023.

At September 30, 2024, Par Pacific’s cash balance totaled $183.0 million, gross term debt was $546.0 million, and total liquidity was $632.5 million. Net term debt was $363.0 million at September 30, 2024. In the third quarter of 2024, the Company repurchased $21.9 million of common stock.

Laramie Energy

In conjunction with Laramie Energy LLC’s (“Laramie’s”) refinancing and subsequent cash distribution to Par Pacific during the first quarter of 2023, we resumed the application of equity method accounting for our investment in Laramie effective February 21, 2023. During the third quarter of 2024, we recorded $(0.3) million of equity losses. Laramie’s total net loss was $(4.2) million in the third quarter of 2024, including unrealized losses on derivatives of $(0.4) million, compared to $(4.7) million in the third quarter of 2023. Laramie’s total Adjusted EBITDAX was $9.9 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $15.4 million in the third quarter of 2023.

Conference Call Information

A conference call is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. Central Time (10:00 a.m. Eastern Time). To access the call, please dial 1-833-974-2377 inside the U.S. or 1-412-317-5782 outside of the U.S. and ask for the Par Pacific call. Please dial in at least 10 minutes early to register. The webcast may be accessed online through the Company’s website at http://www.parpacific.com on the Investors page. A telephone replay will be available until November 19, 2024 and may be accessed by calling 1-877-344-7529 inside the U.S. or 1-412-317-0088 outside the U.S. and using the conference ID 4223997.

About Par Pacific

Par Pacific Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: PARR), headquartered in Houston, Texas, is a growing energy company providing both renewable and conventional fuels to the western United States. Par Pacific owns and operates 219,000 bpd of combined refining capacity across four locations in Hawaii, the Pacific Northwest and the Rockies, and an extensive energy infrastructure network, including 13 million barrels of storage, and marine, rail, rack, and pipeline assets. In addition, Par Pacific operates the Hele retail brand in Hawaii and the “nomnom” convenience store chain in the Pacific Northwest. Par Pacific also owns 46% of Laramie Energy, LLC, a natural gas production company with operations and assets concentrated in Western Colorado. More information is available at www.parpacific.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release (and oral statements regarding the subject matter of this news release, including those made on the conference call and webcast announced herein) includes certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to qualify for the “safe harbor” from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements about: expected market conditions; anticipated free cash flows; anticipated refinery throughput; anticipated cost savings; anticipated capital expenditures, including major maintenance costs, and their effect on our financial and operating results, including earnings per share and free cash flow; anticipated retail sales volumes and on-island sales; the anticipated financial and operational results of Laramie Energy, LLC; the amount of our discounted net cash flows and the impact of our NOL carryforwards thereon; our ability to identify, acquire, and develop energy, related retailing, and infrastructure businesses; the timing and expected results of certain development projects, as well as the impact of such investments on our product mix and sales; the anticipated synergies and other benefits of the Billings refinery and associated marketing and logistics assets (“Billings Acquisition”), including renewable growth opportunities, the anticipated financial and operating results of the Billings Acquisition and the effect on Par Pacific’s cash flows and profitability (including Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income and Free Cash Flow per share); and other risks and uncertainties detailed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and any other documents that we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Additionally, forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, trends, and uncertainties, such as changes to our financial condition and liquidity; the volatility of crude oil and refined product prices; the Russia-Ukraine war, Israel-Palestine conflict, Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, Iranian activities in the Strait of Hormuz and their potential impacts on global crude oil markets and our business; operating disruptions at our refineries resulting from unplanned maintenance events or natural disasters; environmental risks; changes in the labor market; and risks of political or regulatory changes. We cannot provide assurances that the assumptions upon which these forward-looking statements are based will prove to have been correct. Should one of these risks materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements, and investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are current only as of this date. We do not intend to update or revise any forward-looking statements made herein or any other forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. We further expressly disclaim any written or oral statements made by a third party regarding the subject matter of this news release.

Contact:
Ashimi Patel
VP, Investor Relations & Sustainability
(832) 916-3355
apatel@parpacific.com


Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (in thousands, except per share data)

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2024			2023			2024			2023
Revenues	$	2,143,933		$	2,579,308		$	6,142,236		$	6,048,444
Operating expenses
Cost of revenues (excluding depreciation)		1,905,200			2,174,385			5,422,875			5,038,211
Operating expense (excluding depreciation)		147,049			145,183			444,389			330,146
Depreciation and amortization		31,879			35,311			96,679			87,887
General and administrative expense (excluding depreciation)		22,399			23,694			87,322			66,148
Equity earnings from refining and logistics investments		(3,008	)		(3,934	)		(12,846	)		(4,359	)
Acquisition and integration costs		(23	)		4,669			68			17,213
Par West redevelopment and other costs		4,006			3,127			9,048			8,490
Loss on sale of assets, net		—			—			114			—
Total operating expenses		2,107,502			2,382,435			6,047,649			5,543,736
Operating income		36,431			196,873			94,587			504,708
Other income (expense)
Interest expense and financing costs, net		(23,402	)		(20,815	)		(61,720	)		(51,974	)
Debt extinguishment and commitment costs		—			—			(1,418	)		(17,682	)
Other income (loss), net		1,253			(43	)		(1,447	)		301
Equity earnings (losses) from Laramie Energy, LLC		(336	)		—			2,867			10,706
Total other expense, net		(22,485	)		(20,858	)		(61,718	)		(58,649	)
Income before income taxes		13,946			176,015			32,869			446,059
Income tax expense		(6,460	)		(4,600	)		(10,496	)		(6,741	)
Net income	$	7,486		$	171,415		$	22,373		$	439,318

Weighted-average shares outstanding
Basic		55,729		60,223		57,283		60,241
Diluted		56,224		61,404		58,070		61,144

Income per share
Basic	$	0.13	$	2.85	$	0.39	$	7.29
Diluted	$	0.13	$	2.79	$	0.39	$	7.18


Balance Sheet Data (Unaudited) (in thousands)

	September 30, 2024		December 31, 2023
Balance Sheet Data
Cash and cash equivalents	$	182,977	$	279,107
Working capital (1)		542,690		190,042
ABL Credit Facility		511,000		115,000
Term debt (2)		546,021		550,621
Total debt, including current portion		1,043,706		650,858
Total stockholders’ equity		1,254,026		1,335,424

______________________________
(1) Working capital is calculated as (i) total current assets excluding cash and cash equivalents less (ii) total current liabilities excluding current portion of long-term debt. Total current assets include inventories stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value.
(2) Term debt includes the Term Loan Credit Agreement and other long-term debt.

Operating Statistics

The following table summarizes key operational data:

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2024			2023			2024			2023
Total Refining Segment
Feedstocks throughput (Mbpd) (1)		198.4			198.2			186.3			164.6
Refined product sales volume (Mbpd) (1)		216.2			217.3			200.2			178.7

Hawaii Refinery
Feedstocks throughput (Mbpd)		80.7			82.3			80.4			80.9

Yield (% of total throughput)
Gasoline and gasoline blendstocks		25.6	%		26.5	%		26.0	%		26.7	%
Distillates		38.3	%		42.1	%		38.1	%		40.8	%
Fuel oils		32.0	%		26.5	%		32.0	%		28.0	%
Other products		0.7	%		2.1	%		0.3	%		1.5	%
Total yield		96.6	%		97.2	%		96.4	%		97.0	%

Refined product sales volume (Mbpd)		93.5			90.0			87.8			89.2

Adjusted Gross Margin per bbl ($/throughput bbl) (2)	$	6.10		$	13.47		$	10.06		$	14.74
Production costs per bbl ($/throughput bbl) (3)		4.58			4.50			4.66			4.46
D&A per bbl ($/throughput bbl)		0.25			0.65			0.47			0.68

Montana Refinery
Feedstocks Throughput (Mbpd) (1)		57.2			55.4			49.2			57.1

Yield (% of total throughput)
Gasoline and gasoline blendstocks		46.5	%		50.5	%		49.5	%		49.6	%
Distillates		34.7	%		27.7	%		31.7	%		28.2	%
Asphalt		11.0	%		14.7	%		9.3	%		14.4	%
Other products		4.0	%		3.4	%		4.4	%		3.5	%
Total yield		96.2	%		96.3	%		94.9	%		95.7	%

Refined product sales volume (Mbpd) (1)		60.3			63.5			53.4			62.5

Adjusted Gross Margin per bbl ($/throughput bbl) (2)	$	12.42		$	26.49		$	14.15		$	27.74
Production costs per bbl ($/throughput bbl) (3)		11.61			10.83			13.16			10.10
D&A per bbl ($/throughput bbl)		1.82			1.63			1.69			1.69

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2024			2023			2024			2023
Washington Refinery
Feedstocks throughput (Mbpd)		41.1			41.0			37.9			40.5

Yield (% of total throughput)
Gasoline and gasoline blendstocks		23.6	%		22.8	%		24.0	%		23.4	%
Distillate		35.3	%		34.6	%		34.5	%		34.6	%
Asphalt		17.4	%		20.1	%		18.6	%		19.4	%
Other products		19.7	%		18.8	%		19.3	%		18.8	%
Total yield		96.0	%		96.3	%		96.4	%		96.2	%

Refined product sales volume (Mbpd)		42.4			44.2			39.6			43.3

Adjusted Gross Margin per bbl ($/throughput bbl) (2)	$	1.76		$	12.30		$	4.03		$	9.91
Production costs per bbl ($/throughput bbl) (3)		3.50			3.77			4.28			4.00
D&A per bbl ($/throughput bbl)		1.81			1.79			2.00			1.81

Wyoming Refinery
Feedstocks throughput (Mbpd)		19.4			19.5			18.8			17.7

Yield (% of total throughput)
Gasoline and gasoline blendstocks		43.7	%		46.7	%		45.7	%		46.0	%
Distillate		49.0	%		47.1	%		48.1	%		47.3	%
Fuel oils		3.4	%		2.5	%		2.5	%		2.5	%
Other products		2.3	%		1.7	%		2.2	%		1.7	%
Total yield		98.4	%		98.0	%		98.5	%		97.5	%

Refined product sales volume (Mbpd)		20.0			19.6			19.4			18.3

Adjusted Gross Margin per bbl ($/throughput bbl) (2)	$	13.65		$	37.01		$	14.42		$	28.88
Production costs per bbl ($/throughput bbl) (3)		7.00			6.46			7.30			7.34
D&A per bbl ($/throughput bbl)		2.43			2.41			2.51			2.69

Market Indices ($ per barrel)
3-1-2 Singapore Crack Spread (4)	$	11.00		$	23.39		$	14.04		$	19.45
RVO Adj. Pacific Northwest 3-1-1-1 Index (5)		15.48			35.00			19.49			28.51
RVO Adj. USGC 3-2-1 Index (6)		14.14			29.65			17.79			25.96

Crude Oil Prices ($ per barrel)
Brent	$	78.71		$	85.92		$	81.82		$	81.93
WTI		75.27			82.22			77.61			77.28
ANS (7)		80.26			89.25			83.49			82.57
Bakken Clearbrook		74.41			83.58			76.22			79.38
WCS Hardisty		59.98			65.42			62.20			60.75
Brent M1-M3		1.31			1.27			1.22			0.74

Retail Segment
Retail sales volumes (thousands of gallons)		31,232			31,137			91,186			87,710

______________________________
(1)   Feedstocks throughput and sales volumes per day for the Montana refinery for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 are calculated based on the 92 and 122-day periods for which we owned the Montana refinery during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, respectively. As such, the amounts for the total refining segment represent the sum of the Hawaii, Washington, and Wyoming refineries’ throughput or sales volumes averaged over the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, plus the Montana refinery’s throughput or sales volumes averaged over the periods from July 1, 2023 to September 30, 2023 and June 1, 2023 to September 30, 2023, respectively. The 2024 amounts for the total refining segment represent the sum of the Hawaii, Montana, Washington, and Wyoming refineries’ throughput or sales volumes averaged over the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024.
(2)   We calculate Adjusted Gross Margin per barrel by dividing Adjusted Gross Margin by total refining throughput. Adjusted Gross Margin for our Washington refinery is determined under the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) inventory costing method. Adjusted Gross Margin for our other refineries is determined under the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) inventory costing method.
(3)   Management uses production costs per barrel to evaluate performance and compare efficiency to other companies in the industry. There are a variety of ways to calculate production costs per barrel; different companies within the industry calculate it in different ways. We calculate production costs per barrel by dividing all direct production costs, which include the costs to run the refineries including personnel costs, repair and maintenance costs, insurance, utilities, and other miscellaneous costs, by total refining throughput. Our production costs are included in Operating expense (excluding depreciation) on our condensed consolidated statements of operations, which also includes costs related to our bulk marketing operations and severance costs.
(4)   We believe the 3-1-2 Singapore Crack Spread (or three barrels of Brent crude oil converted into one barrel of gasoline and two barrels of distillates (diesel and jet fuel)) is the most representative market indicator for our operations in Hawaii.
(5)   We believe the RVO Adjusted Pacific Northwest 3-1-1-1 Index (or three barrels of WTI crude oil converted into one barrel of Pacific Northwest gasoline, one barrel of Pacific Northwest ULSD and one barrel of USGC VGO, less 100% of the RVO cost for gasoline and ULSD) is the most representative market indicator for our operations in Washington.
(6)   We believe the RVO Adjusted USGC 3-2-1 Index (or three barrels of WTI crude oil converted into two barrels of USGC gasoline and one barrel of USGC ULSD, less 100% of the RVO cost) is the most representative market indicator for our operations in Montana and Wyoming.
(7)   ANS crude price influences the Hawaii Refinery’s financial performance. Beginning in September 2024, the ANS index has been updated from a Platts marker to an Argus marker to better reflect the prompt ANS market.

Non-GAAP Performance Measures

Management uses certain financial measures to evaluate our operating performance that are considered non-GAAP financial measures. These measures should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes or alternatives to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures or any other measure of financial performance or liquidity presented in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies since each company may define these terms differently.

We believe Adjusted Gross Margin (as defined below) provides useful information to investors because it eliminates the gross impact of volatile commodity prices and adjusts for certain non-cash items and timing differences created by our inventory financing agreements and lower of cost and net realizable value adjustments to demonstrate the earnings potential of the business before other fixed and variable costs, which are reported separately in Operating expense (excluding depreciation) and Depreciation and amortization. Management uses Adjusted Gross Margin per barrel to evaluate operating performance and compare profitability to other companies in the industry and to industry benchmarks. We believe Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted EBITDA (as defined below) are useful supplemental financial measures that allow investors to assess the financial performance of our assets without regard to financing methods, capital structure, or historical cost basis, the ability of our assets to generate cash to pay interest on our indebtedness, and our operating performance and return on invested capital as compared to other companies without regard to financing methods and capital structure. We believe Adjusted EBITDA by segment (as defined below) is a useful supplemental financial measure to evaluate the economic performance of our segments without regard to financing methods, capital structure, or historical cost basis.

Beginning with financial results reported for the second quarter of 2023, Adjusted Gross Margin, Adjusted Net Income (Loss), and Adjusted EBITDA also exclude our portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from our refining and logistics investments acquired on June 1, 2023, as part of the Billings Acquisition.

Beginning with financial results reported for the fourth quarter of 2023, Adjusted Gross Margin, Adjusted Net Income (Loss), and Adjusted EBITDA excludes all hedge losses (gains) associated with our Washington ending inventory and LIFO layer increment impacts associated with our Washington inventory. In addition, we have modified our environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustment to include only the mark-to-market losses (gains) associated with our net RINs liability and net obligation associated with the Washington Climate Commitment Act (“Washington CCA”) and Clean Fuel Standard. This modification was made as part of our change in how we estimate our environmental obligation liabilities.

Beginning with financial results reported for the fourth quarter of 2023, Adjusted Net Income (loss) excludes unrealized interest rate derivative losses (gains) and all Laramie Energy related impacts with the exception of cash distributions. We have recast Adjusted Net Income (Loss) for prior periods when reported to conform to the modified presentation.

Beginning with financial results reported for the first quarter of 2024, Adjusted Net Income (loss) also excludes other non-operating income and expenses. This modification improves comparability between periods by excluding income and expenses resulting from non-operating activities.

Adjusted Gross Margin

Adjusted Gross Margin is defined as operating income (loss) excluding:

•		operating expense (excluding depreciation);
•		depreciation and amortization (“D&A”);
•		Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments;
•		impairment expense;
•		loss (gain) on sale of assets, net;
•		inventory valuation adjustment (which adjusts for timing differences to reflect the economics of our inventory financing agreements, including lower of cost or net realizable value adjustments, the impact of the embedded derivative repurchase or terminal obligations, hedge losses (gains) associated with our Washington ending inventory and intermediation obligation, purchase price allocation adjustments, and LIFO layer increment and decrement impacts associated with our Washington inventory);
•		Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments (which represents the mark-to-market losses (gains) associated with our net RINs liability and net obligation associated with the Washington CCA and Clean Fuel Standard); and
•		unrealized loss (gain) on derivatives.

The following tables present a reconciliation of Adjusted Gross Margin to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, operating income (loss), on a historical basis, for selected segments, for the periods indicated (in thousands):

Three months ended September 30, 2024	Refining			Logistics		Retail
Operating income	$	19,005		$	26,164	$	18,274
Operating expense (excluding depreciation)		122,054			3,334		21,661
Depreciation and amortization		22,623			5,925		2,680
Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments		658			861		—
Inventory valuation adjustment		14,057			—		—
Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments		(4,432	)		—		—
Unrealized gain on commodity derivatives		(31,772	)		—		—
Gain on sale of assets, net		—			—		—
Adjusted Gross Margin (1)	$	142,193		$	36,284	$	42,615

Three months ended September 30, 2023	Refining			Logistics		Retail
Operating income	$	194,847		$	20,736	$	13,315
Operating expense (excluding depreciation)		116,949			6,135		22,099
Depreciation and amortization		24,278			7,708		2,766
Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments		821			698		—
Inventory valuation adjustment		72,823			—		—
Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments		(50,153	)		—		—
Unrealized gain on commodity derivatives		(8,995	)		—		—
Adjusted Gross Margin (1)	$	350,570		$	35,277	$	38,180

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024	Refining			Logistics		Retail
Operating income	$	82,811		$	64,579	$	45,323
Operating expense (excluding depreciation)		365,031			11,847		67,511
Depreciation and amortization		66,584			19,893		8,471
Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments		2,037			2,550		—
Inventory valuation adjustment		(6,419	)		—		—
Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments		(18,199	)		—		—
Unrealized loss on commodity derivatives		34,061			—		—
Loss (gain) on sale of assets, net		—			124		(10	)
Adjusted Gross Margin (1)	$	525,906		$	98,993	$	121,295

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023	Refining			Logistics		Retail
Operating income	$	502,123		$	54,035	$	42,009
Operating expense (excluding depreciation)		252,802			13,178		64,166
Depreciation and amortization		59,827			17,801		8,577
Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments		821			905		—
Inventory valuation adjustment		126,799			—		—
Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments		(174,111	)		—		—
Unrealized gain on commodity derivatives		(487	)		—		—
Adjusted Gross Margin (1)	$	767,774		$	85,919	$	114,752

______________________________
(1) For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, there was no impairment expense in Operating income. For the three months ended September 30, 2024 and the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, there was no (gain) loss on sale of assets recorded in Operating income.

Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted Net Income (Loss) is defined as Net income (loss) excluding:

•		inventory valuation adjustment (which adjusts for timing differences to reflect the economics of our inventory financing agreements, including lower of cost or net realizable value adjustments, the impact of the embedded derivative repurchase or terminal obligations, hedge losses (gains) associated with our Washington ending inventory and intermediation obligation, purchase price allocation adjustments, and LIFO layer increment and decrement impacts associated with our Washington inventory);
•		Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments (which represents the mark-to-market losses (gains) associated with our net RINs liability and net obligation associated with the Washington CCA and Clean Fuel Standard);
•		unrealized (gain) loss on derivatives;
•		acquisition and integration costs;
•		redevelopment and other costs related to Par West;
•		debt extinguishment and commitment costs;
•		increase in (release of) tax valuation allowance and other deferred tax items;
•		changes in the value of contingent consideration and common stock warrants;
•		severance costs and other non-operating expense (income);
•		(gain) loss on sale of assets;
•		impairment expense;
•		impairment expense associated with our investment in Laramie Energy; and
•		Par’s share of equity (earnings) losses from Laramie Energy, LLC, excluding cash distributions.

Adjusted EBITDA is defined as Adjusted Net Income (Loss) excluding:

•		D&A;
•		interest expense and financing costs, net, excluding unrealized interest rate derivative loss (gain);
•		cash distributions from Laramie Energy, LLC to Par;
•		Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments; and
•		income tax expense (benefit) excluding the increase in (release of) tax valuation allowance.

The following table presents a reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted EBITDA to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, net income (loss), on a historical basis for the periods indicated (in thousands):

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2024			2023			2024			2023
Net income	$	7,486		$	171,415		$	22,373		$	439,318
Inventory valuation adjustment		14,057			72,823			(6,419	)		126,799
Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments		(4,432	)		(50,153	)		(18,199	)		(174,111	)
Unrealized loss (gain) on derivatives		(31,196	)		(9,116	)		33,756			(1,151	)
Acquisition and integration costs		(23	)		4,669			68			17,213
Par West redevelopment and other costs		4,006			3,127			9,048			8,490
Debt extinguishment and commitment costs		—			—			1,418			17,682
Changes in valuation allowance and other deferred tax items (1)		5,707			—			9,238			—
Severance costs and other non-operating expense (2)		(1,490	)		615			14,648			1,685
Loss on sale of assets, net		—			—			114			—
Equity (earnings) losses from Laramie Energy, LLC, excluding cash distributions		336			—			(1,382	)		—
Adjusted Net Income (Loss) (3)		(5,549	)		193,380			64,663			435,925
Depreciation and amortization		31,879			35,311			96,679			87,887
Interest expense and financing costs, net, excluding unrealized interest rate derivative loss (gain)		22,826			20,936			62,025			52,638
Laramie Energy, LLC cash distributions to Par		—			—			(1,485	)		(10,706	)
Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments		1,519			1,519			4,587			1,726
Income tax expense (benefit)		753			4,600			1,258			6,741
Adjusted EBITDA (3)	$	51,428		$	255,746		$	227,727		$	574,211

______________________________
(1)   For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, we recognized a non-cash deferred tax expense of $5.7 million and $9.2 million, respectively, related to deferred state and federal tax liabilities. This tax benefit is included in Income tax expense (benefit) on our consolidated statements of operations. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we did not have any adjustments to our valuation allowance and other deferred tax items.
(2)   For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, we incurred $13.1 million of stock-based compensation expenses associated with accelerated vesting of equity awards and modification of vested equity awards related to our CEO transition and $2.3 million for an estimated legal settlement unrelated to current operating activities.
(3)   For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, there was no change in value of contingent consideration, change in value of common stock warrants, impairment expense, impairments associated with our investment in Laramie Energy, or our share of Laramie Energy’s asset impairment losses in excess of our basis difference. Please read the Non-GAAP Performance Measures discussion above for information regarding changes to the components of Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted EBITDA made during the reporting periods.

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted Adjusted Net Income (Loss) per share (in thousands, except per share amounts):

	Three Months Ended September 30,					Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2024			2023		2024		2023
Adjusted Net Income (Loss)	$	(5,549	)	$	193,380	$	64,663	$	435,925
Plus: effect of convertible securities		—			—		—		—
Numerator for diluted income (loss) per common share	$	(5,549	)	$	193,380	$	64,663	$	435,925

Basic weighted-average common stock shares outstanding		55,729			60,223		57,283		60,241
Add dilutive effects of common stock equivalents (1)		—			1,181		787		903
Diluted weighted-average common stock shares outstanding		55,729			61,404		58,070		61,144

Basic Adjusted Net Income (Loss) per common share	$	(0.10	)	$	3.21	$	1.13	$	7.24
Diluted Adjusted Net Income (Loss) per common share	$	(0.10	)	$	3.15	$	1.11	$	7.13

______________________________
(1) Entities with a net loss from continuing operations are prohibited from including potential common shares in the computation of diluted per share amounts. We have utilized the basic shares outstanding to calculate both basic and diluted Adjusted Net Loss per common share for the three months ended September 30, 2024.

Adjusted EBITDA by Segment

Adjusted EBITDA by segment is defined as Operating income (loss) excluding:

•		D&A;
•		inventory valuation adjustment (which adjusts for timing differences to reflect the economics of our inventory financing agreements, including lower of cost or net realizable value adjustments, the impact of the embedded derivative repurchase or terminal obligations, hedge losses (gains) associated with our Washington ending inventory and intermediation obligation, purchase price allocation adjustments, and LIFO layer increment and decrement impacts associated with our Washington inventory);
•		Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments (which represents the mark-to-market losses (gains) associated with our net RINs liability and net obligation associated with the Washington CCA and Clean Fuel Standard);
•		unrealized (gain) loss on derivatives;
•		acquisition and integration costs;
•		redevelopment and other costs related to Par West;
•		severance costs and other non-operating expense (income);
•		(gain) loss on sale of assets;
•		impairment expense; and
•		Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments.

Adjusted EBITDA by segment also includes Gain on curtailment of pension obligation and Other income (loss), net, which are presented below operating income (loss) on our condensed consolidated statements of operations.

The following table presents a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA by segment to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, operating income (loss) by segment, on a historical basis, for selected segments, for the periods indicated (in thousands):

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2024
	Refining			Logistics		Retail		Corporate and Other
Operating income (loss) by segment	$	19,005		$	26,164	$	18,274	$	(27,012	)
Depreciation and amortization		22,623			5,925		2,680		651
Inventory valuation adjustment		14,057			—		—		—
Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments		(4,432	)		—		—		—
Unrealized gain on commodity derivatives		(31,772	)		—		—		—
Acquisition and integration costs		—			—		—		(23	)
Par West redevelopment and other costs		—			—		—		4,006
Severance costs and other non-operating expense		—			—		—		(1,490	)
Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments		658			861		—		—
Other income, net		—			—		—		1,253
Adjusted EBITDA (1)	$	20,139		$	32,950	$	20,954	$	(22,615	)

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2023
	Refining			Logistics		Retail		Corporate and Other
Operating income (loss) by segment	$	194,847		$	20,736	$	13,315	$	(32,025	)
Depreciation and amortization		24,278			7,708		2,766		559
Inventory valuation adjustment		72,823			—		—		—
Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments		(50,153	)		—		—		—
Unrealized gain on commodity derivatives		(8,995	)		—		—		—
Acquisition and integration costs		—			—		—		4,669
Par West redevelopment and other costs		—			—		—		3,127
Severance costs and other non-operating expenses		—			—		580		35
Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments		821			698		—		—
Other loss, net		—			—		—		(43	)
Adjusted EBITDA (1)	$	233,621		$	29,142	$	16,661	$	(23,678	)

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024
	Refining			Logistics		Retail			Corporate and Other
Operating income (loss) by segment	$	82,811		$	64,579	$	45,323		$	(98,126	)
Depreciation and amortization		66,584			19,893		8,471			1,731
Inventory valuation adjustment		(6,419	)		—		—			—
Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments		(18,199	)		—		—			—
Unrealized loss on commodity derivatives		34,061			—		—			—
Acquisition and integration costs		—			—		—			68
Severance costs and other non-operating expenses		642			—		—			14,006
Par West redevelopment and other costs		—			—		—			9,048
Loss (gain) on sale of assets, net		—			124		(10	)		—
Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments		2,037			2,550		—			—
Other loss, net		—			—		—			(1,447	)
Adjusted EBITDA (1)	$	161,517		$	87,146	$	53,784		$	(74,720	)

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023
	Refining			Logistics		Retail		Corporate and Other
Operating income (loss) by segment	$	502,123		$	54,035	$	42,009	$	(93,459	)
Depreciation and amortization		59,827			17,801		8,577		1,682
Inventory valuation adjustment		126,799			—		—		—
Environmental obligation mark-to-market adjustments		(174,111	)		—		—		—
Unrealized gain on commodity derivatives		(487	)		—		—		—
Acquisition and integration costs		—			—		—		17,213
Severance costs and other non-operating expenses		—			—		580		1,105
Par West redevelopment and other costs		—			—		—		8,490
Par’s portion of interest, taxes, and depreciation expense from refining and logistics investments		821			905		—		—
Other income, net		—			—		—		301
Adjusted EBITDA (1)	$	514,972		$	72,741	$	51,166	$	(64,668	)

________________________________________
(1) For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, there was no change in value of contingent consideration, change in value of common stock warrants, impairment expense, or impairments associated with our investment in Laramie Energy. For three months ended September 30, 2024 and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, there was no loss (gain) on sale of assets.

Laramie Energy Adjusted EBITDAX

Adjusted EBITDAX is defined as net income (loss) excluding commodity derivative loss (gain), loss (gain) on settled derivative instruments, interest expense, gain on extinguishment of debt, non-cash preferred dividend, depreciation, depletion, amortization, and accretion, exploration and geological and geographical expense, bonus accrual, equity-based compensation expense, loss (gain) on disposal of assets, phantom units, and expired acreage (non-cash). We believe Adjusted EBITDAX is a useful supplemental financial measure to evaluate the economic and operational performance of exploration and production companies such as Laramie Energy.

The following table presents a reconciliation of Laramie Energy’s Adjusted EBITDAX to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, net income (loss) for the periods indicated (in thousands):

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2024			2023			2024			2023
Net income (loss)	$	(4,239	)	$	(3,479	)	$	(4,296	)	$	54,048
Commodity derivative (income) loss		(5,234	)		1,889			(15,821	)		(32,951	)
Gain (loss) on settled derivative instruments		5,584			2,775			14,220			(1,433	)
Interest expense and loan fees		5,745			5,783			15,783			14,742
Gain on extinguishment of debt		—			(3,454	)		—			6,644
Non-cash preferred dividend		—			—			—			2,910
Depreciation, depletion, amortization, and accretion		8,128			9,248			24,683			22,465
Phantom units		(217	)		2,425			(503	)		3,171
Loss (gain) on sale of assets, net		(8	)		239			(8	)		307
Expired acreage (non-cash)		157			—			722			112
Total Adjusted EBITDAX (1)	$	9,916		$	15,426		$	34,780		$	70,015

______________________________
(1) For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, there was no exploration and geological and geographical expense, bonus accrual, or equity-based compensation expense.

The MIL Network –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Graves Demands Biden-Harris Administration Abide by Supreme Court’s WOTUS Ruling

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sam Graves (6th District of Missouri)

WASHINGTON, DC – Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (MO-06) led Committee Republicans today in enumerating the many ongoing concerns from Congress and stakeholders about the Biden-Harris Administration’s refusal to conform with the Supreme Court’s ruling pertaining to the definition of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act (CWA).

Writing to the heads of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) in regard to the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision in Sackett v. EPA (Sackett), the Republican Members said, “This Administration is not adhering to Sackett, attempting to maintain broad Federal overreach, slow-walking implementation, failing to provide adequate direction to regulated communities, and delaying projects which require certainty under a CWA permitting regime.”

The Members cited concerns from a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including those raised during a September Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee hearing about the Administration’s lack of clarity, transparency, and direction on WOTUS since Sackett.

“In Sackett, the Supreme Court provided needed clarity on the definition of a WOTUS, reinforcing property owners’ rights, protecting the separation of powers by limiting the authority that Congress explicitly delegated in statute, and adhering to the Congressional intent of the CWA. Sackett rightly upheld the cooperative Federalism framework of the CWA, as well as the authority of states to regulate non-Federal waters within their borders as they see fit.”

However, despite the unequivocal decision by the Court and the much-needed clarity that it provided, T&I Republicans assert that the Biden-Harris Administration continues to openly disregard the Supreme Court’s ruling. Members posed a series of questions to the EPA and the Corps about steps they are taking to create a permitting regime that is faithful to Sackett and the Administration’s plans to provide more guidance and certainty to the regulated community. The letter also includes a request for information related to delayed agency decisions that are preventing important projects from moving forward.

Read the full letter here.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Welch Awarded American Farm Bureau Federation’s “Friend of the Farm Bureau” Award

US Senate News:

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

Welch Joins Vermont Farmers and Agriculture Leaders in Fairlee
FAIRLEE, VT – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Chair of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development and Energy, was awarded the American Farm Bureau Federation’s “Friend of the Farm Bureau” Award for the 118th Congress for his leadership and commitment to Vermont’s farmers and rural communities. Senator Welch accepted the award at the Vermont Farm Bureau’s annual dinner in Fairlee.
“Agriculture is at the heart of what makes Vermont special— our sense of community, our working lands, and neighbors feeding neighbors. But this important part of our State’s culture has been threatened by market pressures and back-to-back floods, which have made it tough for rural families to make ends meet and farmers to stay in business. I’m fighting in Washington to help and will keep working to support Vermont farmers, farmworkers, and families,” said Senator Welch.
View photos from the event below:

Senator Welch earned the “Friend of the Farm Bureau” award for his dedication and commitment to Vermont’s farmers, agricultural industry, and rural communities. He was nominated by the Vermont Farm Bureau.
At the event, Senator Welch highlighted the urgent need to pass a bipartisan Farm Bill to help farmers keep farming and put food on the table for families across America. The Senate’s draft Farm Bill, the Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act, includes several priorities championed by Sen. Welch that will strengthen Vermont’s farms, rural communities, and families, including:

The Farmland Access Act, legislation to improve Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) entity certification and buy-protect-sell provisions to help protect American farmland for its intended use and expand access to farming for the next generation.

The Future Farmers and Ranchers of Tomorrow Act, bicameral legislation to increase access to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs for young and new farmers by revising USDA’s “qualified beginning farmer or rancher” definition to allow non-related beginning farmers and ranchers in joint entities to be eligible for FSA loans.

The O DAIRY Act, legislation to improve collection of organic dairy market data.

The ReConnecting Rural America Act, bipartisan legislation that would codify and clarify components of USDA’s ReConnect Loan and Grant Program and, in so doing, reduce red tape, and speed broadband deployment.

The Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act contains more than 100 pieces of legislation that aim to support our farms, create jobs, improve rural infrastructure, expand access to childcare and health care, support rural education and skills training, build out high-speed rural broadband, help build more affordable housing in rural America, assist homeowners and farms transition to greener energy and lower their utility bills, clean up our drinking water, conserve our land, and more.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Nation-first Information Standard for lithium-ion e-bikes and e-skateboards

Source: New South Wales Government 2

Headline: Nation-first Information Standard for lithium-ion e-bikes and e-skateboards

Published: 4 November 2024

Released by: Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Minister for Transport

In an Australian first, NSW Fair Trading is set to introduce an Information Standard for lithium-ion battery-powered e-micromobility products, as it powers up its nation-leading effort to protect consumers from safety risks posed by the increasingly popular devices.

Information Standards regulate what guidance and warnings are provided to consumers about goods and services, with an aim to keep purchasers informed of the risks products carry and how they should be used to avoid those risks.

E-micromobility products include e-scooters, e-bikes, e-skateboards, self-balancing hoverboards and their associated chargers.

If retailers in NSW do not provide product guidance mandated by an Information Standard, they could be subject to penalties of up to $5,500 for each breach.

NSW Fair Trading’s proposed Information Standard for lithium-ion battery-powered e-micromobility devices will provide consumer advice and warnings on:

Fire safety and emergency procedures – identifying signs of a fire and procedures to be followed in case of an emergency.

Electrical safety – warnings for consumers about lithium-ion batteries, battery charging and warnings against modification of the device.

Product storage – information on safe storage and protection from environmental hazards.

Use, service and repair – information about safe use practices, what to do if there is any damage to the device, and details about service and repair centres.

Road rules – information urging consumers to check the road rules applicable to their device.

End of life – best practices for disposal of devices and lithium-ion batteries.

The forthcoming Information Standard, which is expected to be introduced in early 2025, will support the new product safety standards for lithium-ion e-micromobility devices.

The safety standards announced in early August require e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards and e-skateboards to meet new testing, certification, and marking requirements, and will be introduced in a staged process from 1 February 2025.

The product safety standards are intended to curb the fire-risks associated with lithium-ion e-micromobility devices by ensuring low quality and dangerous versions of these products cannot enter the market and be sold on to unwitting consumers.

Retailers, manufacturers and suppliers will face fines of up to $825,000 for not complying with the new safety standards.

E-micromobility products were the single largest group of lithium-ion battery-powered devices associated with fires in 2022 and 2023, with Fire and Rescue NSW recording 90 incidents related to the products in those years. There have been 72 fire-incidents connected with e-micromobility products in 2024. 

This work by NSW Fair Trading complements the regulatory work for batteries being undertaken by the NSW Environment Protection Authority – showing that NSW is leading the way when it comes to protecting consumers, workers and the environment from battery risks now and into the future.

NSW Fair Trading is consulting with industry stakeholders and Government agencies to determine what should be included in the Information Standard. The public can have their say at: https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/lithium-ion-battery-powered-micromobility-vehicles until 6 December 2024.

For more information on the new lithium-ion battery powered e-micromobility product standards, please visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/safety-home/electrical-safety/lithium-ion-battery-safety/new-safety-standards-for-lithium-ion-batteries-e-mobility-devices

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“We need to ensure we have a robust regulatory framework to keep consumers safe from the potential harms posed by some lithium-ion battery-powered products.

“This Information Standard is another step in building that framework and will provide consumers with the information they need to stay safe when using e-micromobility devices.

“The NSW Government looks forward to working with, and hearing from stakeholders and the public, about what they think consumers need to know before they buy an e-bike or other e-micromobility product.”

Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said:

“As we move towards legalising the use of e-scooters and other micro-mobility devices on NSW roads, it’s vital we ensure these devices are up to standard and pass strict safety standards.

“Ensuring that high quality lithium-ion battery-powered devices are the only ones available on the shelves will keep people safe.”

Quotes attributable to Commissioner of NSW Fair Trading, Natasha Mann:

“NSW Fair Trading has been working closely with consumers, industry, and other Government agencies to ensure people are protected from the risks posed by lithium-ion e-micromobility products.

“While new product standards for manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers are set to come into effect from 1 February next year, an Information Standard will give people access to the guidance they need when purchasing one of these products.

“These changes are about empowering consumers to make informed decisions when they first buy a product and knowing how to use it safely through the product’s life.”

MIL OSI News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri C.R. Patil Highlights Prime Minister’s Commitment to Ganga Conservation while inaugurating Ganga Utsav 2024 at Haridwar

Source: Government of India

Union Minister Shri C.R. Patil Highlights Prime Minister’s Commitment to Ganga Conservation while inaugurating Ganga Utsav 2024 at Haridwar

Minister of State Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary underscores Ganga Utsav’s role in promoting conservation and reverence for Maa Ganga

Ganga Utsav is Organized by NMCG to Celebrate Ganga River’s National Status and Promote Conservation Efforts

Posted On: 04 NOV 2024 8:37PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister for Jal Shakti Shri C R Patil inaugurates Ganga Utsav 2024 at Chandi Ghat in Haridwar today in august presence of Minister of State for Jal Shakti Shri Raj Bhushan Chaudhary and Uttarakhand Minister for Women & Child Welfare Smt. Rekha Arya. The Secretary of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Mrs. Debashree Mukherjee was also present on the occasion. Ganga Utsav 2024 is organised by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) to mark the anniversary of declaring the Ganga River as the National River. The primary aim of this festival is to promote the conservation of the Ganga River, emphasize its cultural and spiritual importance, and raise public awareness about cleanliness. This eighth edition of the event was the first to be held on the riverbank, with celebrations extending across 139 districts in the Ganga basin states. Each state hosted a main event organized by District Ganga Committees.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister for Jal Shakti Shri C R Patil shared the Prime Minister’s message that the Ganga benefits 600 million people of this country and revered as a mother, it gives selflessly without taking. Sh. Patil emphasized that revering rivers as mothers is deeply rooted in our culture and conserving the river is a noble initiative that we all must ensure. Shri Patil recalled that, upon becoming Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi expressed that “Maa Ganga has called me.” Since then, the Prime Minister has shown unwavering commitment to raising awareness and rallying public support for the conservation of Maa Ganga.

Union Minister Shri Patil noted that Prime Minister’s Jal Sanchay, Jan Bhagidari initiative has gained widespread support, with people actively participating in the cause. Rainwater harvesting structures are being constructed across states to store water. He emphasized that Jan Samarthan (public support) is essential for conserving Maa Ganga, as it requires a collective, holistic effort from everyone.

Sh. Patil also interacted and had a discussion with spiritual leaders and gurus present in the Utsav under a session titled Ganga Samvad. Speaking at the session, Sh. Patil emphasized for river conservation and rejuvenation and urged everyone to spread awareness about this to save Maa Ganga. Sh. Patil flagged off Ganga Women Rafting Expedition. The 50-day long expedition will conclude at Ganga Sagar traversing through 9 major cities & towns across the Ganga River. This historic expedition will coincide with various activities organized across several districts in the five key states of the Ganga basin. He also felicitated BSF River Rafting team on the occasion.

Speaking at the event, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, highlighted that Ganga Utsav is a unique festival dedicated to river conservation, with many activities planned to promote the conservation and cleanliness of the Ganga. He emphasized that rivers are not just sources of water but are also sacred and deeply significant, especially Maa Ganga, which unites us all. He affirmed that, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, efforts are underway to ensure the cleanliness and conservation of Maa Ganga.

Sh. Raj Bhushan Chaudhary said that through the Namami Gange initiative, ₹7,144 crore has been sanctioned in Bihar for 39 Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), with 17 already completed. Conservation efforts are also focused on Ganga’s tributaries. These projects are essential for conserving Maa Ganga, a river with rich historical and cultural significance and help in driving national development through conservation of rivers, he added.

Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami had also conveyed through Video message for conservation of Maa Ganga.

Union Minister of State Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary flagged off National Book Trust (NBT) Bus as part of Ganga Utsav 2024. The NBT bus with literature regarding river Ganga carries out ‘Ganga Pustak Parikrama’ with the theme ‘Ganges through the ages: A Literary Bioscope’. The bus will travel through major 10 cities in the 5 riparian states along the Ganga River basin.

This year’s event saw participation from several river cities under the River City Alliance, an organization that now includes 145 river cities nationwide. The alliance’s main objective is to promote healthy urban rivers through an integrated approach to river-sensitive urban planning. This approach aims for pollution-free, continuously flowing rivers that are cherished by all, contributing to water-secure cities and fostering inclusive, sustainable urban development. The festival serves as a key platform to underscore the cultural and spiritual importance of rivers in our society.

The festival featured a “Ghat Par Haat” market along with stalls from local departments to highlight various aspects of the Namami Gange initiative. A range of engaging activities for children, including quizzes, film screenings, magic shows, puppet shows, and drawing and painting competitions, promoted their involvement in river conservation. Additionally, Nukkad Nataks (street plays) focused on raising awareness about river conservation among the youth. The event also included an exhibition on Namami Gange, showcasing the diverse facets of this important initiative.

Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary and other dignitaries also participated in Ganga Arti at Haridwar.

*****

DSK/GS

(Release ID: 2070708) Visitor Counter : 57

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The International Solar Alliance Announces the Selection of its third Director General
Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 04 NOV 2024 6:02PM by PIB Delhi

The seventh session of the ISA Assembly in progress in New Delhi today selected Mr Ashish Khanna from the Republic of India as its third Director General. The other office candidates included Mr Wisdom Ahiataku —Togobo from Ghana and Mr Gosaye Mengistie Abayneh from Ethiopia.

The Director General of ISA plays a crucial role in supporting the Assembly in advancing the International Solar Alliance mandate. This includes supporting to Member Countries in addressing common challenges and engaging in coordinated action to scale up the deployment of solar energy globally.

The outgoing Director General, Dr Ajay Mathur, wishing his successor luck, said, “As I step down from my role, I want to take a moment to welcome Mr Ashish Khanna to this incredible journey ahead warmly. Serving in this position has been an honour, and I am confident you will bring unique energy, vision, and passion to this office and role. Your leadership will undoubtedly steer this Alliance to new heights, building on the progress achieved while carving your legacy. The challenges ahead are great, but so are the opportunities. My simple advice is to trust your intuition, lean on the support around you, and know that you have the skills to make a lasting impact. I wish you the very best as you begin this new chapter.”

As part of the selection process, the three candidates presented to the ISA Member Country representatives, focusing on their vision for a solar energy-dominant world and the role of the Alliance.

Mr Ashish Khanna, Director General – Designate, ISA, expounding on his plans for expanding ISA’s reach and impact, said the focus has to shift from ‘what’ to ‘how’ as most countries are aware of what needs to be done, but require assistance in reaching those goals. He added that the Alliance will benefit from participating in international fora, where the motivation should be twofold: to explore collaborations, work together, and learn from each other’s experiences. Moving forward, he said he looks forward to building on what is working well and grooming existing partnerships, and he stressed purity of intent and passion for results.”

Dr Ajay Mathur, who has led the Alliance since 2021, will conclude his tenure on 14 March 2025. Under his leadership, the Alliance has achieved significant milestones, including a monumental rise in Member & Signatory Countries tallying at 103 and 17, respectively, the completion and launch of demonstration projects, and the successful identification of 50 start-ups with potential to dynamise their countries’ journey towards solar energy. His contributions have laid strong foundations to equal challenges that global solar deployment presents under the broad ambits of investments – via the Global Solar Facility, infrastructure through setting up of solar demonstration projects, and indigenisation – via the STAR-Centres and other ISA programme-related trainings.

Across the three priority areas of work: advocacy and analytics, capacity building, and programmatic support, drawing a spotlight on the Alliance’s accomplishments under his leadership.
- He steered the aggregation of 9.5 GW of project proposals, including notable projects like a 360 MW solar PV bid in Cuba and a 400 MW approval in Ethiopia. Guided the preparation of feasibility studies for ground-mounted projects and solar rooftop DPRs in Comoros, Sao Tome & Principe, and Bangladesh. Pilot projects are advancing in Ethiopia, and assessments are ongoing in nine countries. Mini-grid assessments in Ethiopia, Somalia, and Guinea, as well as solar water pumping studies, were completed in 10 countries.
- The STAR-C initiative, the stellar capacity-building ISA offering, has trained over 900 professionals through six centres, with 10 new centres planned. Regulatory workshops in eight countries have trained over 265 policymakers. ISA also drives knowledge management through its Knowledge Series, Solar Data Portals, and Green Hydrogen Innovation Centre. Flagship reports Easing of Doing Solar and World Solar Reports on Technology, Investment and Finance have been published annually since 2020 and 2022, respectively. The latest addition to this repertoire, ‘Unleashing the Role of Solar: In Advancing Economic, Social, And Environmental Equity’ report, focuses on exploring the global adoption of solar (and renewables) through the lens of socio-economic and developmental priorities for each archetype, utilising a diverse set of indicators across finance, technology, and policy enablers.
- Among the innovative financial tools, ISA’s Global Solar Facility, launched at COP27, aims to unlock $50M in commercial capital for underserved regions, with its first project in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While the SolarX Startup Challenge, launched at COP27, mentors 50 scalable solar solutions from Africa and Asia-Pacific, supporting the creation of a project pipeline. ISA continues to lead global collaboration on solar energy through events at the Conference of Parties. Since COP27, ISA has been hosting a solar-focussed space, The Solar Hub, and took its advocacy efforts a notch up with the launch of the first International Solar Festival in September 2024, further cementing its role in the global solar transition.
Speaking of his legacy, Dr Mathur noted, “I would like to be remembered as the Director General who provided some degree of direction for the globalisation of solar energies while in office at the Alliance.”

About the International Solar Alliance

The International Solar Alliance is an international organisation with 120 Member and Signatory countries. It works with governments to improve energy access and security worldwide and promote solar power as a sustainable transition to a carbon-neutral future. ISA’s mission is to unlock US$1 trillion of investments in solar by 2030 while reducing the cost of the technology and its financing. It promotes the use of solar energy in the agriculture, health, transport, and power generation sectors.

ISA Member Countries are driving change by enacting policies and regulations, sharing best practices, agreeing on common standards, and mobilising investments. Through this work, ISA has identified, designed and tested new business models for solar projects; supported governments to make their energy legislation and policies solar-friendly through Ease of Doing Solar analytics and advisory; pooled demand for solar technology from different countries; and drove down costs; improved access to finance by reducing the risks and making the sector more attractive to private investment; increased access to solar training, data and insights for solar engineers and energy policymakers. With advocacy for solar-powered solutions, ISA aims to transform lives, bring clean, reliable, and affordable energy to communities worldwide, fuel sustainable growth, and improve quality of life.

With the signing and ratification of the ISA Framework Agreement by 15 countries on 6 December 2017, ISA became the first international intergovernmental organisation to be headquartered in India. ISA is partnering with multilateral development banks (MDBs), development financial institutions (DFIs), private and public sector organisations, civil society, and other international institutions to deploy cost-effective and transformational solutions through solar energy, especially in the least Developed Countries (LDCs) and the Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

***

Navin Sreejith

(Release ID: 2070660) Visitor Counter : 23

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: Congressional Delegation, RIDOT and Amtrak Kick Off Providence Station State of Good Repair Project

Source: US State of Rhode Island

U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, Congressman Seth Magaziner, Congressman Gabe Amo, and Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) Director Peter Alviti, Jr. today gathered with Amtrak leadership and other federal, state and local leaders to kick off a long-awaited project to renovate Providence Station.

Built in 1986, Providence Station has grown to serve more than two million passengers a year, making it the 11th most utilized train station in the country. While improvements have been made over the years, many station elements are original. Various infrastructure elements and systems are not in a state of good repair, and station capacity is strained. This project will modernize and expand the station in addition to upgrading access to it and making that access safer and easier.

The project was made possible by a $12.5 million Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) State of Good Repair Grant delivered by Senator Reed in 2019. Amtrak provided $9.75 million and RIDOT put in $7.75 million. This builds on previous funding the congressional delegation secured, including $5.2 million for station enhancements and $3 million for planning, design, and environmental reviews.

The project includes many improvements for passenger amenities and public spaces. This includes expanding the station floorplan by enclosing the plaza on the western side of the station, adjacent to Caf� La France, and providing additional seating; modernizing and expanding the restrooms; consolidating ticketing and baggage operations; upgrading the public address system with visual displays; making accessibility improvements; and upgrading the station’s mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and plumbing systems.

“For millions of passengers each year, the Providence Station is a gateway to Rhode Island and our capital city. This project will help Providence Station meet growing ridership with a welcoming space that is more modern, accessible, and efficient,” said Senator Reed, a leading member of the Appropriations Committee. “I was proud to help deliver a $12.5 million competitive grant to advance this critical renovation project. When it’s completed, it will be a major improvement for passengers, tourism, and the community as a whole.”

“Providence Station currently serves many more passengers than it was originally designed for, and the wear and tear is evident,” said Senator Whitehouse, a senior member of the Environment and Public Works Committee. “This is an exciting project that will greatly improve the travel experience for the millions of passengers who spend time in the Station every year. Once again, our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is at work delivering convenient and reliable transportation upgrades for Rhode Islanders.”

“Providence Station is an essential transit hub for Rhode Islanders and is overdue for an upgrade,” said Representative Magaziner. “This federal funding will modernize amenities and improve accessibility to better serve the millions of passengers that pass through this station each year.” “Providence Station currently serves more than two million loyal riders every year. I’m proud to be one of them,” said Congressman Amo. “Thanks to Senator Jack Reed � who played a key role in securing federal funds for this over $30 million renovation � we’re working to modernize this vital transportation hub. Once open, it will signal to residents and visitors alike that Providence is a leader in providing a 21st-century travel experience.”

“Providence Station is not only the busiest transit center in Rhode Island, it’s one of the busiest in the entire country,” Director Alviti said. “The improvements are well-deserved and will serve passengers for generations to come while encouraging greater use of transit services for trips within Rhode Island as well as out of state.”

“Providence Station serves as a vital hub for our community. This renovation will enhance and modernize this space for the millions of passengers who rely on this station every year,” said Providence Mayor Brett P. Smiley. “The state-of-the-art amenities and improved safety and access features that will be implemented at this critical transit center will further cement Providence as a top destination for people to live, work and visit. I want to thank Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo, the Federal Railroad Administration and RIDOT for their commitment to this important project.”

“Transforming Providence Station into a more modern facility and expanding the customer amenities and space, while still keeping the original charms of the current station, will simultaneously enhance the customer experience and encourage more residents and visitors to take the train,” said Tom Moritz, Amtrak’s assistant vice president of infrastructure access and investment. “Thanks to Senators Reed and Whitehouse, Congressmen Magaziner and Amo, Mayor Smiley, our partners at RIDOT and the FRA, as well as many more federal, state, and local officials, we are proud to take the next step and begin work to update and upgrade Providence Station.”

During construction, pedestrian areas may be temporarily blocked with detours established. Amtrak intends to maintain restroom facilities, the Oakwells convenience store, and the caf� operations during the project although some services may be temporarily limited.

There also will be an increased safety presence with a more prominent Amtrak Police entrance and counter. In an already completed phase of work, RIDOT made improvements to the pedestrian walkways in Station Park in 2023, which connects the station to Francis Street, opposite Providence Place Mall. The total value of all improvements is $30 million.

All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings and weather.

The Providence Station of Good Repair Project is made possible by RhodeWorks and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. RIDOT is committed to bringing Rhode Island’s infrastructure into a state of good repair while respecting the environment and striving to improve it. Learn more at www.ridot.net/RhodeWorks.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appointments strengthen Conservation Boards

Source: New Zealand Government

The latest Conservation Board appointments will help to strengthen environmental efforts across Aotearoa New Zealand, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says.

Mr Potaka today announced 64 appointments to the country’s 14 Conservation Boards.

“Conservation Boards play a vital role as liaison between DOC with their regions, making their community’s voice heard on conservation issues,” Mr Potaka says.

“The boards are independent bodies that empower local communities and iwi to contribute to the management of conservation areas. Boards provide a voice for local concerns to gain traction in DOC’s work, and on a national level where required.

“’Nau mai haere mai’ to those members stepping up for the first time, ‘hoki mai’ to those returning, and ‘ngā mihi’ to all the outgoing representatives for their important contributions to conservation mahi in their regions.

“There were 394 applications for the public Conservation Board positions in this round, and the level of community interest in conservation management is heartwarming.

“The variety of skills and qualities the appointees bring fills me with hope that together we can make a real difference for our native species and ecosystems.”

Conservation Board appointments took effect from 1 November 2024.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Watson Lake — Watson Lake Secondary School Youth Hunt

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

This October, students from Watson Lake Secondary School (WLSS)’s grade 12 class participated in an on the land hunting adventure on Kaska Traditional Territory alongside Watson Lake RCMP and Yukon conservation officers.

Following the success of the youth hunt collaboration in 2023, the First Nations School Board met with key stake holders and purchased canvas wall tents, stoves, and a Utility Task Vehicle (UTV), ensuring the program could continue.

This year, the hunt was held the week of October 7 to 11. David Dickson, Land and Language Connector for WLSS, organized Elders to attend the camp for the week to share the knowledge of the area, traditions, and culture of the Kaska Nation. Elder Agnes Chief, who was born at Frances Lake, told of stories about living off the land and making the long journey down the Frances River to Watson Lake for supplies. Students also learned about the community of Frances Lake and the forts that existed during the fur trade.

Elder Charlie Dickson, taught the students about traditional methods of preparing a moose head. Elder Agnes Chief taught about local, traditional medicines, where to find them and how to prepare them for consumption.

The youth were shown how to field dress and care for meat. They learned about giving thanks to the animals and the traditional ways of giving respect to the harvested moose. The harvested meat was shared throughout the community, benefiting Elders, students, community members, Liard Aboriginal Women Society, and the First Nations Health Program. The First Nations Heath Program will use the meat for traditional meals and will be shared among all three Yukon Hospitals for patients.

“Traditions being passed down to the younger generation is what life is all about, I was very honoured to be apart of such a meaningful hunt. Seeing Elders and youth interact together brought back so many memories from when I was young. Being raised to hunt was always apart of my upbringing, and now that I’m older and able to provide for my family it has taken on a whole different meaning. Being that role model to my kids but also being a strong woman role model for young lady hunters is also very empowering. Seeing the young ladies dive in with no fear of getting dirty was very heart filling and made me proud” – Nicole Donovan from First Nations Health Program

“The Yukon Territory provides unparalleled access to incredible outdoor recreation opportunities. The WLSS Grade 12 Youth Hunt, with the support of the Watson Lake RCMP Detachment, Yukon Conservation Officer Services, Liard First Nation, First Nations School Board, and local community members, is an impressive joint-effort to ensure that the next generation is exposed to these amazing opportunities. The experiences, skills, ethics, and knowledge shared with the youth will stay with them for the rest of their lives, and hopefully provide some youths with the first step to taking on the age-old tradition of being a provider to one’s family and community. As a Conservation Officer, I believe that there is no experience more fulfilling to a young man or woman than putting hard work into a hunt, and as a result, providing wholesome food for their family and community. There is a deep sense of pride instilled in a young person when they experience the incredible sense of accomplishment that comes from a hunt. That is the greatest benefit of the youth hunt, and I am optimistic that all of the participating youth will carry that sense of accomplishment and pride with them for the rest of their lives.” – Yukon Conservation Officer, Parker Antal

“The continued success of this program could not have been achieved without the community support of Liard First Nations, First Nations School Board, Liard Aboriginal Women Society, WLSS, Yukon Conservation Officer Services, and the community volunteers. We look forward to 2025. ” – Sergeant Jordan Cropper, Detachment Commander Watson Lake RCMP

“It’s important for me to be part of this initiative, on my traditional territory. I am happy to participate. Sógá sénlá’.” – David Dickson, Land and Language Connector with the First Nation School Board

MIL Security OSI –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: New appointments to National Portrait Gallery of Australia Board

Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

The Albanese Labor Government has today announced the appointment of Ms Sam Meers AO as a member and future Chair, the reappointment of Mrs Penny Fowler AM as interim Chair and Ms Elizabeth Dibbs as a member of the Board to the National Portrait Gallery.

Mrs Fowler will serve as Chair for the remainder of her final term until March 2025 and will be succeeded by Ms Meers for a two and half year term. Ms Dibbs will be appointed as a member for a three year term from January 2025.

The National Portrait Gallery holds Australia’s largest collection of portraits of notable Australians, telling our story and increasing the understanding and appreciation of Australian people by examining their identity, history, culture, creativity and diversity.

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the experience and skills of the appointees would be invaluable to the Board.

“Sam has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to the Australian arts sector and her significant experience will provide continued strong leadership for the gallery.

“I’d also like to thank Penny and Elizabeth for their continued service and dedication to the National Portrait gallery.

“Penny has made a significant contribution in advancing the goals of Revive at the gallery, including elevating First Nations representation in the collection and ensuring the institution can present Australian stories through the diverse and emotive genre of portraiture.”

Ms Sam Meers AO is co-founder and Chair of the Nelson Meers Foundation, a not-for-profit philanthropic foundation. Ms Meers has extensive experience in the arts and philanthropy sectors and was made an Officer for the Order of Australia in 2018. She is currently chairman of the Brett Whiteley Foundation and a director of Environmental Leadership Australia. Her board appointments have included chairman of Belvoir St Theatre; chairman of Documentary Australia; deputy chairman of the Federal Government Creative Partnerships Australia; a trustee of the Arts Gallery of NSW and a director of the State Library of NSW Foundation. Ms Meers holds degrees in Law and Arts and a Master of letters (literature) from the University of Sydney. She is a member of Chief Executive Women, and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and the Royal Society of NSW.

Ms Elizabeth Dibbs is currently a member of the Board where she has managed the role of chair of the Audit and Risk Committee for three years. She is deputy chancellor of Western Sydney University and chair of its Audit and Risk Committee. She is also deputy chair of the ACT City Renewal Authority and chair of United Way Australia. Elizabeth has previously served as the Western City District Commissioner for the Greater Cities Commission, as a Council Member of Chief Executive Women, chair of its Scholarship Committee and as chair of YWCA NSW.

Mrs Penny Fowler AM has served as chair of the of the Board since January 2022 after first being appointed as a member in March 2016. She is the chair of the Herald and Weekly Times and is News Corp Australia’s Community Ambassador. She is also chair of the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, chair of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, a Board member of Tourism Australia, an Advisory Board member of Visy, and a Board member of Tech Mahindra. Ms Fowler is a member of Chief Executive Women and an ambassador for the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation and SecondBite. In 2024, Mrs Fowler was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia.

MIL OSI News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Northland News – Critically endangered Northland lake plant voted NZ’s favourite plant 2024

Source: Northland Regional Council

A tiny and very rare Northland lake plant, Trithuria inconspicua, has been voted ‘New Zealand’s Favourite Plant’ in a national poll.

The online vote was run by the New Zealand Plant Conservation Network (NZPCN) to find the native plant best-loved by New Zealanders.

Trithuria only grows in Te Taitokerau’s dune lakes and is found nowhere else in the world.

Tiny in stature, Trithuria packs a mighty punch in age – the latest scientific research has revealed this little plant to be in the oldest flowering plant lineage.

Trithuria is in a plant family that has been around for over a hundred million years, so it is a ‘living fossil’.

The plant certainly lives up to its name of ‘inconspicua’. At only 55 millimetres tall, it grows partially buried in the sands of the lake floor, so you are more likely to feel it beneath your feet than see it. It has fans of fine, hair-like leaves in which it hides tiny flowers that look like miniature waterlilies.

Northland Regional Council (NRC) works in partnership with mana whenua, landowners and the Department of Conservation (DOC) to protect dune lakes and is delighted to celebrate Trithuria’s success.

“It’s so exciting that a Northland aquatic plant has won, and that people know and love this remarkable little plant,” the council’s Biodiversity Manager Lisa Forester says.

Kaumātua Ric Pārore, speaking on behalf of Te Kuihi hapū, one of the mana whenua of Kai Iwi Lakes, says they’re thrilled to see Trithuria recognised, but also sad the plant has become so rare.

“It’s important that everyone who visits or uses our lakes is careful to look after them so this plant can thrive.”

Unfortunately, the future for Trithuria is uncertain.

It is listed as ‘Threatened-Nationally Critical’, the highest threat category. Plant populations were previously found in 13 dune lakes north of Poutō, but since 1998 these have declined to viable populations in only five lakes.

Trithuria needs clean sand and water to survive and is effectively a ‘canary in the coalmine’ as far as water quality is concerned. It is threatened by deteriorating water quality due to nutrient enrichment, pest weed and pest fish impacts and recreational pressures.

Three of the lakes where Trithuria grows are public lakes where people like to swim or boat, which puts the plant at extra risk from being trampled or from accidental pest introductions.

Northland Regional Council, in conjunction with mana whenua, DOC and landowners, is currently running eradication programmes for hornwort and oxygen weeds in several high value dune lakes.

Councillor Jack Craw, who chairs the council’s Biosecurity and Biodiversity Working Party, says Te Taitokerau’s dune lakes are one of our outstanding ecosystems and are globally rare.

“Trithuria is a wonderful example of why these lakes are so special and its recognition as plant of the year is a reminder to us all of the importance of caring for our dune lakes.”

Councillor Craw says dune lakes and their biodiversity face many threats, including the risk of introduced pests like the invasive gold clam, which is now present in the Waikato River area.

“If this got into our lakes it would be disastrous and would almost certainly lead to the extinction of Trithuria in those lakes.”

He says Northlanders can help prevent the spread of aquatic pests by following ‘Check Clean Dry’ procedures when visiting the lakes.

If you do see Trithuria, the NRC urges you not to pick it, dig it up or trample it…just leave it undisturbed. (It is very difficult to grow and will not survive in an aquarium or home pond.)

For more information on this special plant visit: www.nrc.govt.nz/trithuria

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government science cuts take New Zealand even further backward

Source: Council of Trade Unions – CTU

NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Richard Wagstaff is deeply concerned about the future of investment in science, following the latest announcement of another 60 jobs cuts at Environmental Science and Research (ESR). The Government has now axed more than 500 jobs in the public science sector.

“The Government doesn’t seem to believe in the value of science and isn’t interested in making the investment required. Instead, it is taking us backwards and slashing funding in favour of tax cuts for landlords and tobacco companies,” said Wagstaff.

“We should be increasing investment in science and properly funding Crown Research Institutes (CRIs) and universities. New Zealand is only spending about half the OECD average on science and research and development (R&D) already.

“It’s well known that countries that invest a higher proportion of GDP directly in R&D (both private and public) see greater returns economically, socially and environmentally.

“The decision to make these cuts has been made even though the report of the Science System Advisory Group report is due out shortly, which demonstrates the lack of commitment there is to listen to the evidence on the importance of science investment.

‘The Government talks about the need to tackle our poor productivity performance, and the need for a longer-term plan to arrest our decline, but their actions continue to take us in the opposite direction.

“It’s time we had a serious conversation about science, and we urgently need a government that is prepared to have that conversation and not just bury it’s head in the sand,” said Wagstaff.

Note:
The CTU and several affiliated unions are member organisations of the Save Science Coalition. The Save Science Coalition released a report in July this year about the cuts to science funding and staffing so far, which can be found here. The group is now working on an update to this report, to account for the ongoing cuts we are seeing at GNS, ESR and elsewhere. The report will contain more detailed numbers and information and is expected to be released before the end of the year.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland’s Te Henga Walkway re-opens to viewing point post cyclone Gabrielle

Source: Department of Conservation

Date: 05 November 2024

The re-opened 1.8km track starts at the northern end of the original track on Constable Road, south of Muriwai Beach. The 65-minute walk (one way) takes walkers to the new end of the walkway at Tirikohua Point. At the half-way point is a natural viewpoint with stunning views both north and south of the dramatic coastline.

The original Te Henga Walkway, which traversed the cliffs from Te Henga/Bethells Beach to Muriwai, suffered enormous damage in the extreme weather events in early 2023. Major sections of the cliffs collapsed which destroyed large sections of the track says DOC Tāmaki Makaurau Operations Manager Rebecca Rush.

“The full coastal track had suffered from severe landslides over several years making it no longer a resilient, safe or sustainable place to rebuild the track.

“The new viewpoint gives walkers a destination to reach, and a place to take in the beauty of the rugged west coast of Auckland – the main attraction of the original walkway. We anticipate Aucklanders of a range of ages and fitness levels will enjoy this shorter track.”

Rebecca reminds the public the old walkway, from Tirikohua Point south to Bethells Beach is closed and impassable with many large sections wiped out by significant landslips.

Edward Ashby, CEO of Te Kawerau Iwi Tiaki Trust says giving people the opportunity to experience the west coast’s magnificent landscape helps connect people to nature and is a welcome solution for the damaged track.

“While the total loss of large sections of the track was devastating for the iwi and community, particularly given the wider impacts to locals from the 2023 weather events, the solution of a shorter track provides some positive recreation and access for people.

“The area is of immense spiritual significance to Te Kawerau ā Maki as a traditional pathway between Muriwai and Te Henga that includes some of our most ancient pūrākau (stories), major pā, peace-making sites, iwi lands such as Parihoa and Te Henga blocks, and the nearby location of our planned marae at Te Henga.

“We’re working with DOC to consider a new name for this shortened walk to reflect the history and beauty of the place.”

To plan your walk, visit the DOC track webpage Te Henga Walkway

Background information

Te Henga Walkway

Te Henga Walkway suffered around 20 landslides during summer 2023. Major sections of cliff collapsed destroying large lengths of track. The storms also took out one bridge at the Bethells Beach end of the original walkway and one on the hillside. An average of 30,000 visitors used to hike the Te Henga Walkway each year.

2023 North Island weather events including Cyclone Gabrielle

DOC received $12.6 million to help fix up nature, heritage, and visitor sites in the North Island that were damaged in the North Island weather events.

89 per cent of the visitor sites affected by Cyclone Gabrielle, and that were funded, have been repaired, supported, or reopened in some way.

Most ecosystems are slowly recovering from the cyclone, and efforts are being made to help endangered species in certain areas. Recovery work is still ongoing, and more resources are needed to deal with the loss of plants and animals, as well as damage to cultural, heritage, and visitor sites.

Te Kawerau ā Maki

Te Kawerau ā Maki are the West Auckland based iwi with shared interests over the northern half of the Auckland Region. Their heartland is the Waitākere Ranges where their marae is planned to be rebuilt at Te Henga. Further information about the iwi can be found at www.tekawerau.iwi

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Gaming the news: How interactive journalism is changing how we tell stories to the next gen

Source: University of South Australia

05 November 2024

The Ramping Rush game.

Journalists have long used newspapers, radio, television, magazines and, more recently, the internet to entertain and inform the public on the stories that matter most. But what if there’s a richer, more compelling and interactive way to share and address real world issues?

A University of South Australia academic is exploring how video games are being developed in journalism as a more interactive way to engage younger audiences and tell impactful stories.

Dr Ben Stubbs, a senior lecturer in journalism and creative writing at UniSA, has created a news game – Ramping Rush: Ambulance Rescue – to explore one of South Australia’s most important health issues: ambulance ramping.

The game was led by UniSA’s Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments (IVE) and developed by computer science and media and literature students from around the world as part of a virtual internship.

Ramping Rush: Ambulance Rescue is a free and online single-player game that aims to demonstrate the impact of ramping – an issue that has given rise to countless media reports in recent years as the state’s hospital system strains under pressure. Ramping occurs when ambulances are made to queue outside overcrowded hospital emergency departments, leaving patients with a prolonged wait upon arrival.

In the game, the player steps into the shoes of a busy paramedic, racing against time to rescue patients while dealing with long hospital waits and ramping delays.

The aim is for the player to make snap decisions and save as many lives as possible before getting stuck in traffic or being held up at clogged emergency departments. However, the player soon learns that it’s impossible to save the patients and ‘win’ the game as the ramping situation is too dire.

By demonstrating the challenges of ramping through a gaming scenario, the team hopes to capture the attention of younger audiences, particularly school students, who are less likely to engage in traditional media.

Dr Stubbs, an experienced journalist who has written for publications including The New York Times, The Guardian and Sydney Morning Herald, says the video game was created to engage younger audiences with important and current community issues.

“Interactive news games are another way for people to think about real world issues in a fun and engaging way,” he says.

“We know that people have been moving away from traditional news for a long time now and how people are consuming news is constantly changing.

“Video games are just another way to think about the potential of alternative journalism when traditional forms might only reach certain audiences.”

Last year saw the biggest increase in the number of Australians playing video games, from 67% (17 million) in 2021 to 81% (21 million) in 2023. Nearly 95% of Australian households have a device for playing video games while 91% of parents play with their children to connect as a family.

Meanwhile, the journalism landscape has experienced significant change in recent decades, with traditional reporting formats like newspapers in decline. In Australia only 18% of people still read newspapers, with online news now attracting the majority of audiences.

“Shifting attitudes towards news consumption is driving demand for new outlets such as games,” Dr Stubbs says.

“News video games are not entirely new to journalism. For example, after the September 11 terrorist attacks, a game was created to help people understand the complexities of modern warfare.

“Similarly, ABC created The Amazon Race’ in 2019 to showcase the realities of working in a pressure-cooker environment such as Amazon’s Melbourne warehouse.”

UniSA has recently added a module all about news games to the Innovations in Visual Journalism course which will be part of the online Bachelor of Journalism program in 2025.

“I think there’s great potential with news games,” Dr Stubbs says. “In our research we found games on everything from the Syrian civil war, remembrance around the Madrid train bombings, identifying fake news, games on the realities of living with a low income, managing a sweatshop factory, pirate fishing, distracted driving and managing COVID misinformation.

“Creating new and timely additions to the video news portfolio is an important step in remaining connected to the next generation.”

Ambulance Rush: Ramping Rescue is available to play on itch.io.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Contact for interview: Dr Ben Stubbs, Senior Lecturer, UniSA E: Ben.Stubbs@unisa.edu.au
Media contact: Melissa Keogh, UniSA Media M: +61 403 659 154 E: Melissa.Keogh@unisa.edu.au

MIL OSI News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Take two with Andrew – November

Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

Andrew Arps, team leader for water and land in North Canterbury, introduces his new monthly column: ‘Take two with Andrew’. This month, he discusses the pest plants broom and nasella tussock and offers tips for keeping effluent out of waterways.

Kia ora

You may be aware that we’ve recently undergone a few staff changes, including within our Kaikōura office.

As the new team leader of water and land for North Canterbury, I wanted to introduce myself in the first of what will be regular columns from me.

The aim is to ensure that we stay connected with the community – and to keep you across some of the topical issues that our team is working on.

Water and land North Canterbury team leader Andrew Arps

‘Tis the season for flowering pests

With spring well and truly upon us, it won’t come as a surprise that the war on unwanted plants is ramping up.

Broom

Broom is one of the pests that are now highly visible in both rural and urban parts of Kaikōura, thanks to its distinctive yellow flowers.

This pesky shrub outcompetes native vegetation and reduces pasture productivity.

Rural land occupiers are required to control broom within 10 metres of their property boundary, and those in the Hill and High Country Zone also need to control broom that covers 50 metres or less.

Nassella tussock

It’s also the flowering season for nassella tussock – and a great opportunity to spot any plants that may have been missed during your initial control (it’s a landowner’s responsibility to control nassella tussock).

This invasive grass has drooping, purplish flowerheads that are visible from October to December, and it’s spreading across Waitaha/Canterbury.

For more information about pest plants and what to do if you spot one, visit the ‘pest search’ section of our website –

ecan.govt.nz/pestsearch

Nassella tussock is now flowering and easy to spot

Keeping effluent out of waterways

In recent weeks, our staff have attended several cases of non-compliant effluent spread, resulting in seepage into drains or waterways.

When done right, applying effluent directly to land is a good and safe way to repurpose this waste as a nutrient source for soils. Done badly, it can be devastating to the environment – harming fish and other aquatic life, and turbo-charging weed growth.

The Kaikōura Flats area is particularly vulnerable to runoff, as it’s surrounded by drains.

If you are applying effluent on your land, effluent management must be covered in your Farm Environment Plan.

Other key tips include:

ensure effluent stays at least 20 metres away from waterways and drains

check weather conditions beforehand to avoid discharge during or shortly after rainfall

stay within the capabilities of your soil, and the conditions of your consent.

We can advise you on how to do it right. Remember, breaking the rules could result in prosecution, including fines of tens of thousands of dollars.

Our Farmers’ hub page has more information about effluent spread and how to do it safely – or call our offices on 0800 324 636 and ask for Pete Bradshaw, one of our land management advisors in Kaikōura. Pete is happy to chat with you directly and answer any questions you may have.

‘Til next month,

Andrew

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation Announces Third Quarter 2024 Financial and Operational Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — International Petroleum Corporation (IPC or the Corporation) (TSX, Nasdaq Stockholm: IPCO) today released its financial and operational results and related management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024.

William Lundin, IPC’s President and Chief Executive Officer, comments: “We are pleased to announce another positive quarter of operational performance. IPC achieved average net daily production during the third quarter of 45,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd), following planned maintenance shutdowns during the quarter. We also continue to purchase IPC common shares under the normal course issuer bid (NCIB). We have now almost completed the 2023/2024 NCIB, reducing the outstanding number of common shares by over 6% since the beginning of December 2023. We intend to seek Toronto Stock Exchange approval to renew the NCIB in December 2024. We are also pleased to report on the progress achieved at the Blackrod Phase 1 development in Canada, which remains on schedule and on budget.”

Q3 2024 Business Highlights

Average net production of approximately 45,000 boepd for Q3 2024, in line with guidance (49% heavy crude oil, 17% light and medium crude oil and 34% natural gas).⁽¹⁾
Successful completion of planned maintenance shutdowns at Onion Lake Thermal (OLT) in Canada and the Bertam field in Malaysia.
Drilling activity at the Suffield area in Canada continued with four wells drilled in Q3 2024 and completed by October 2024.
Development activities on Phase 1 of the Blackrod project continue to progress on schedule and on budget, with forecast first oil in late 2026.
2.6 million IPC common shares purchased and cancelled during Q3 2024 under IPC’s normal course issuer bid (NCIB), on track to complete the 2023/2024 NCIB during November 2024.
IPC plans to seek Toronto Stock Exchange approval for the renewal of the NCIB in December 2024.

Q3 2024 Financial Highlights

Operating costs per boe of USD 17.9 for Q3 2024, below guidance.⁽³⁾
Operating cash flow (OCF) and Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) of MUSD 73 and MUSD 68 respectively in line with guidance for Q3 2024.⁽³⁾
Capital and decommissioning expenditures of MUSD 102 for Q3 2024, in line with guidance.
Free cash flow (FCF) for Q3 2024 amounted to MUSD -38 (MUSD 44 pre-Blackrod Phase 1 project funding).⁽³⁾
Gross cash of MUSD 299 and net debt of MUSD 157 as at September 30, 2024.⁽³⁾
Net result of MUSD 23 for Q3 2024.

Reserves and Resources

Total 2P reserves as at December 31, 2023 of 468 MMboe, with a reserves life index (RLI) of 27 years.⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾
Contingent resources (best estimate, unrisked) as at December 31, 2023 of 1,145 MMboe.⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

2024 Annual Guidance

Full year 2024 average net production guidance range maintained at 46,000 to 48,000 boepd.⁽¹⁾
Full year 2024 operating costs guidance revised to below USD 18 per boe.⁽³⁾
Full year 2024 OCF guidance estimated at between MUSD 335 and 342, assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024.⁽³⁾
Full year 2024 capital and decommissioning expenditures guidance forecast maintained at MUSD 437.
Full year 2024 FCF guidance estimated at between MUSD -140 and -133 (between MUSD 222 and 229 pre-Blackrod Phase 1 project funding), assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024.⁽³⁾

	Three months ended September 30			Nine months ended September 30
USD Thousands	2024		2023	2024		2023
Revenue	173,200		257,366	598,659		655,446
Gross profit	39,505		93,429	167,397		210,559
Net result	22,875		71,681	101,804		143,269
Operating cash flow ⁽³⁾	72,589		119,142	263,831		279,414
Free cash flow ⁽³⁾	(38,269	)	34,703	(74,021	)	67,379
EBITDA ⁽³⁾	68,313		123,054	259,304		284,334
Net cash/(debt) ⁽³⁾	(157,228	)	83,097	(157,228	)	83,097

Oil prices softened in the third quarter with Brent prices averaging USD 80 per barrel compared with USD 85 per barrel in the second quarter. Volatility during the quarter was high with Brent prices ranging from USD 89 per barrel in July to USD 70 per barrel in September. Notwithstanding the volatility in prices, the crude market was in a deficit through the third quarter, aided by the proactive supply management by the OPEC+ group. The continued conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine led to increased oil prices, though these were partially offset by concerns over global oil demand growth, in particular consumer and industrial demand in China. Despite some of these negative factors, the physical market remains tight with OECD crude stock levels below the five-year average, with oil demand expected to be at an all-time high in 2024 and continue to grow in 2025. Approximately 50% of IPC’s forecast 2024 oil production is hedged at USD 80 per barrel WTI or USD 85 per barrel Dated Brent through to the end of 2024.

The third quarter 2024 WTI to Western Canadian Select (WCS) price differentials averaged just under USD 14 per barrel, in line with the second quarter and approximately USD 5 per barrel lower than the first quarter differential average of USD 19 per barrel. The Trans Mountain expansion (TMX) pipeline continues to support tighter differentials with the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin (WCSB) now having excess spare pipeline capacity for the first time in more than a decade. Crude exports from the new TMX pipeline are flowing off the coast of British Columbia, with deliveries to the US West Coast and Asia creating new end destinations for Canadian heavy oil. Around 70% of our forecast 2024 Canadian WCS production volumes are hedged at a WTI/WCS differential of USD 15 per barrel.

Natural gas prices in Canada remained suppressed in the third quarter, with AECO pricing averaging CAD 0.67 per Mcf during the period, compared to CAD 1.17 per Mcf average for the second quarter. This has led to some Canadian natural gas producers curtailing production as western Canada gas storage levels continue to sit above the five-year range. IPC implemented hedges during the third quarter for approximately 14,500 Mcf per day at CAD 1.57 per Mcf from August to year end 2024.

Third Quarter 2024 Highlights and Full Year 2024 Guidance

IPC delivered average daily production rates of 45,000 boepd for the third quarter. The average daily production for the first nine months of 2024 was 47,400 boepd and the full year Capital Markets Day (CMD) production guidance of 46,000 to 48,000 boepd is maintained. During the third quarter, planned maintenance shutdowns at the Onion Lake Thermal (OLT) asset in Canada and at the Bertam field in Malaysia were successfully completed. High uptimes were achieved across all major producing assets in our portfolio during the quarter and the business benefited from the oil wells drilled within our Southern Alberta assets and the new wells brought on stream from sustaining Pad L at the OLT asset.⁽¹⁾

Operating costs in the third quarter of 2024 were below forecast at USD 17.9 per boe. The lower costs were largely driven by lower energy input costs within our Canadian asset base. Full year 2024 operating costs guidance is revised to less than USD 18 per boe, below the CMD guidance range of USD 18 to 19 per boe.⁽³⁾

Operating cash flow (OCF) for the third quarter of 2024 was USD 73 million in line with forecast. Full year 2024 OCF guidance is revised to USD 335 to 342 million (assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024).⁽³⁾

Capital and decommissioning expenditure for the third quarter was in line with plan at USD 102 million. Our full year 2024 capital and decommissioning expenditure guidance is unchanged at USD 437 million.

Free cash flow (FCF) was USD -38 million (or USD 44 million pre-Blackrod Phase 1 development funding) during the third quarter of 2024. Full year 2024 FCF guidance is revised to USD -140 to -133 million (or USD 222 to 229 million pre-Blackrod Phase 1 development funding) assuming Brent USD 70 to 80 per barrel for the remainder of 2024.⁽³⁾

Net debt was increased during the third quarter of 2024 by approximately USD 69 million to USD 157 million.⁽³⁾ This is due to the growth capital expenditure at the Blackrod Phase 1 project and continued funding of the normal course issuer bid (NCIB) share repurchase program. The gross cash position as at September 30, 2024 was USD 299 million. In the third quarter, IPC enhanced its financing position by entering into a letter of credit facility in Canada to cover all of its existing operational letters of credit, giving full availability under IPC’s undrawn CAD 180 million Revolving Credit Facility.

With a robust balance sheet and strong cashflow generation from the producing assets, IPC is strongly positioned to deliver on our three strategic pillars of organic growth, shareholder returns and pursue value-adding M&A.

Blackrod Phase 1 Project

The Blackrod asset is 100% owned by IPC and hosts the largest booked reserves and contingent resources within the IPC portfolio. After more than a decade of pilot operations, subsurface delineation and commercial engineering studies, IPC sanctioned the Phase 1 development in the first quarter of 2023. The Phase 1 development targets 218 MMboe of 2P reserves, with a multi-year forecast capital expenditure of USD 850 million to first oil planned in late 2026. The Phase 1 development is planned for plateau production of 30,000 bopd which is expected by early 2028.⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

2024 marks a peak investment year at the Blackrod Phase 1 project for IPC, with USD 362 million planned to be spent in the year. Project progress has advanced according to plan, with approximately USD 245 million spent through the first nine months of 2024. All major third-party contracts have been executed, including but not limited to, the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) agreements for the central processing facility (CPF) and well pad facilities, midstream agreements for the input fuel gas, diluent and oil blend pipelines, and drilling rig and stakeholder agreements. All major long lead items have been procured and pre-operations onboarding continues as the asset undergoes rapid change from a pilot steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) operation to a commercial SAGD operation. IPC’s core operational philosophy is to responsibly develop and commission projects with the staff that are going to manage and operate the asset to ensure the seamless transition from development to operations.

As at the end of the third quarter of 2024, over half of the Blackrod Phase 1 development capital had been spent since the project sanction in early 2023. All major work streams are progressing as planned and the focus continues to be on executing the detailed sequencing of events as facility modules are safely delivered and installed at site. The total Phase 1 project guidance of USD 850 million capital expenditure to first oil in late 2026 is unchanged. IPC intends to fund the remaining Blackrod Phase 1 development costs with forecast cash flow generated by its operations and cash on hand.

Stakeholder Returns: Normal Course Issuer Bid

Under the current 2023/2024 NCIB, IPC has the ability to repurchase up to approximately 8.3 million common shares over the period of December 5, 2023 to December 4, 2024. IPC repurchased and cancelled approximately 7.5 million common shares up to the end of September 2024. The average price of common shares purchased under the 2023/2024 NCIB was SEK 132 / CAD 17 per share. IPC expects to complete the 2023/2024 NCIB during November 2024, resulting in the cancellation of 6.5% of the total number of common shares outstanding as at the beginning of December 2023.

As at September 30, 2024, IPC had a total of 120,751,038 common shares issued and outstanding and IPC held 30,000 common shares in treasury. As at October 31, 2024, IPC had a total of 120,244,638 common shares issued and outstanding and IPC held 44,400 common shares in treasury.

The IPC Board of Directors has approved, subject to acceptance by the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), the renewal of IPC’s NCIB for a further twelve months from December 2024 to December 2025. We expect that the 2024/2025 NCIB will permit IPC to purchase on the TSX and/or Nasdaq Stockholm, and cancel, up to a further approximately 7.5 million common shares, representing approximately 6.2% of the total outstanding common shares (or 10% of IPC’s “public float” under applicable TSX rules) following completion of the current 2023/2024 NCIB. IPC continues to believe that reducing the number of common shares outstanding while in parallel investing in material production growth at the Blackrod project will prove to be a winning formula for our stakeholders.

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Performance

As part of IPC’s commitment to operational excellence and responsible development, its objective is to reduce risk and eliminate hazards to prevent occurrence of accidents, ill health, and environmental damage, as these are essential to the success of our business operations. During the third quarter of 2024, IPC recorded no material safety or environmental incidents.

As previously announced, IPC targets a reduction of our net GHG emissions intensity by the end of 2025 to 50% of IPC’s 2019 baseline and IPC remains on track to achieve this reduction. During the first quarter of 2024, IPC announced the commitment to remain at end 2025 levels of 20 kg CO₂/boe through to the end of 2028.⁽⁴⁾

Notes:

(1) See “Supplemental Information regarding Product Types” in “Reserves and Resources Advisory” below. See also the annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023 (AIF) available on IPC’s website at www.international-petroleum.com and under IPC’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.
(2) See “Reserves and Resources Advisory“ below. Further information with respect to IPC’s reserves, contingent resources and estimates of future net revenue, including assumptions relating to the calculation of NPV, are described in the AIF.
(3) Non-IFRS measures, see “Non-IFRS Measures” below and in the MD&A.
(4) Emissions intensity is the ratio between oil and gas production and the associated carbon emissions, and net emissions intensity reflects gross emissions less operational emission reductions and carbon offsets.

International Petroleum Corp. (IPC) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with a high quality portfolio of assets located in Canada, Malaysia and France, providing a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth. IPC is a member of the Lundin Group of Companies. IPC is incorporated in Canada and IPC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange under the symbol “IPCO”.

For further information, please contact:

Rebecca Gordon SVP Corporate Planning and Investor Relations rebecca.gordon@international-petroleum.com Tel: +41 22 595 10 50		Or		Robert Eriksson Media Manager reriksson@rive6.ch Tel: +46 701 11 26 15

This information is information that International Petroleum Corporation is required to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the contact persons set out above, at 07:30 CET on November 5, 2024. The Corporation’s unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements (Financial Statements) and management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 have been filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and are also available on the Corporation’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements and information which constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (within the meaning of applicable securities legislation). Such statements and information (together, “forward-looking statements”) relate to future events, including the Corporation’s future performance, business prospects or opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, unless otherwise indicated. IPC does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, forecasts, guidance, budgets, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “forecast”, “predict”, “potential”, “targeting”, “intend”, “could”, “might”, “should”, “believe”, “budget” and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”.

Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to:

2024 production ranges (including total daily average production), production composition, cash flows, operating costs and capital and decommissioning expenditure estimates;
Estimates of future production, cash flows, operating costs and capital expenditures that are based on IPC’s current business plans and assumptions regarding the business environment, which are subject to change;
IPC’s financial and operational flexibility to continue to react to recent events and navigate the Corporation through periods of volatile commodity prices;
The ability to fully fund future expenditures from cash flows and current borrowing capacity;
IPC’s intention and ability to continue to implement strategies to build long-term shareholder value;
The ability of IPC’s portfolio of assets to provide a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth;
The continued facility uptime and reservoir performance in IPC’s areas of operation;
Development of the Blackrod project in Canada, including estimates of resource volumes, future production, timing, regulatory approvals, third party commercial arrangements, breakeven prices and net present value;
Current and future production performance, operations and development potential of the Onion Lake Thermal, Suffield, Brooks, Ferguson and Mooney operations, including the timing and success of future oil and gas drilling and optimization programs;
The potential improvement in the Canadian oil egress situation and IPC’s ability to benefit from any such improvements;
The ability to maintain current and forecast production in France and Malaysia;
The intention and ability of IPC to acquire further common shares under the NCIB, including the timing of any such purchases;
The ability of IPC to renew the NCIB and the number of common shares which may be purchased under a renewed NCIB;
The return of value to IPC’s shareholders as a result of the NCIB;
The ability of IPC to implement further shareholder distributions in addition to the NCIB;
IPC’s ability to implement its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity and climate strategies and to achieve its net GHG emissions intensity reduction targets;
IPC’s ability to implement projects to reduce net emissions intensity, including potential carbon capture and storage;
Estimates of reserves and contingent resources;
The ability to generate free cash flows and use that cash to repay debt;
IPC’s continued access to its existing credit facilities, including current financial headroom, on terms acceptable to the Corporation;
IPC’s ability to maintain operations, production and business in light of any future pandemics and the restrictions and disruptions related thereto, including risks related to production delays and interruptions, changes in laws and regulations and reliance on third-party operators and infrastructure;
IPC’s ability to identify and complete future acquisitions;
Expectations regarding the oil and gas industry in Canada, Malaysia and France, including assumptions regarding future royalty rates, regulatory approvals, legislative changes, and ongoing projects and their expected completion; and
Future drilling and other exploration and development activities.

Statements relating to “reserves” and “contingent resources” are also deemed to be forward-looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the reserves and resources described exist in the quantities predicted or estimated and that the reserves and resources can be profitably produced in the future. Ultimate recovery of reserves or resources is based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management.

Although IPC believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because IPC can give no assurances that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks.

These include, but are not limited to general global economic, market and business conditions; the risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general such as operational risks in development, exploration and production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to reserves, resources, production, revenues, costs and expenses; health, safety and environmental risks; commodity price fluctuations; interest rate and exchange rate fluctuations; marketing and transportation; loss of markets; environmental and climate-related risks; competition; innovation and cybersecurity risks related to our systems, including our costs of addressing or mitigating such risks; the ability to attract, engage and retain skilled employees; incorrect assessment of the value of acquisitions; failure to complete or realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions or dispositions; the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources; failure to obtain required regulatory and other approvals; geopolitical conflicts, including the war between Ukraine and Russia and the conflict in the Middle East, and their potential impact on, among other things, global market conditions; and changes in legislation, including but not limited to tax laws, royalties, environmental and abandonment regulations.

Additional information on these and other factors that could affect IPC, or its operations or financial results, are included in the MD&A (See “Risk Factors”, “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information” and “Reserves and Resources Advisory” therein), the Corporation’s Annual Information Form (AIF) for the year ended December 31, 2023, (See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information”, “Reserves and Resources Advisory” and “Risk Factors”) and other reports on file with applicable securities regulatory authorities, including previous financial reports, management’s discussion and analysis and material change reports, which may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca) or IPC’s website (www.international-petroleum.com).

Management of IPC approved the production, operating costs, operating cash flow, capital and decommissioning expenditures and free cash flow guidance and estimates contained herein as of the date of this press release. The purpose of these guidance and estimates is to assist readers in understanding IPC’s expected and targeted financial results, and this information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

Non-IFRS Measures
References are made in this press release to “operating cash flow” (OCF), “free cash flow” (FCF), “Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization” (EBITDA), “operating costs” and “net debt”/”net cash”, which are not generally accepted accounting measures under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable with similar measures presented by other public companies. Non-IFRS measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS.

The definition of each non-IFRS measure is presented in IPC’s MD&A (See “Non-IFRS Measures” therein).

Operating cash flow
The following table sets out how operating cash flow is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

	Three months ended September 30				Nine months ended September 30
USD Thousands	2024		2023		2024		2023
Revenue	173,200		257,366		598,659		655,446
Production costs	(100,984	)	(130,765	)	(328,110	)	(364,889	)
Current tax	373		(7,459	)	(6,718	)	(16,045	)
Operating cash flow	72,589		119,142		263,831		274,512

The operating cash flow for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the operating cash flow contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 279,414 thousand.

Free cash flow
The following table sets out how free cash flow is calculated from figures shown in the Financial Statements:

	Three months ended September 30				Nine months ended September 30
USD Thousands	2024		2023		2024		2023
Operating cash flow – see above	72,589		119,142		263,831		274,512
Capital expenditures	(99,100	)	(76,844	)	(308,457	)	(183,904	)
Abandonment and farm-in expenditures¹	(2,575	)	(2,755	)	(4,938	)	(7,683	)
General, administration and depreciation expenses before depreciation²	(3,903	)	(3,547	)	(11,245	)	(11,124	)
Cash financial items³	(5,280	)	(1,293	)	(13,212	)	(3,593	)
Free cash flow	(38,269	)	34,703		(74,021	)	68,208

¹ See note 16 to the Financial Statements
² Depreciation is not specifically disclosed in the Financial Statements
³ See notes 4 and 5 to the Financial Statements

The free cash flow for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the free cash flow contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 67,379 thousand.

EBITDA
The following table sets out the reconciliation from net result from the consolidated statement of operations to EBITDA:

	Three months ended September 30			Nine months ended September 30
USD Thousands	2024	2023		2024	2023
Net result	22,875	71,681		101,804	143,269
Net financial items	4,124	4,257		23,942	16,227
Income tax	8,257	25,451		29,473	50,671
Depletion and decommissioning costs	30,491	31,687		96,305	71,488
Depreciation of other tangible fixed assets	2,023	1,509		6,503	6,503
Exploration and business development costs	197	(24	)	344	2,007
Depreciation included in general, administration and depreciation expenses ¹	346	405		933	1,180
Sale of Assets	–	(11,912	)	–	(11,912	)
EBITDA	68,313	123,054		259,304	279,433

¹ Item is not shown in the Financial Statements

The EBITDA for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the EBITDA contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 284,334 thousand.

Operating costs
The following table sets out how operating costs is calculated:

	Three months ended September 30				Nine months ended September 30
USD Thousands	2024		2023		2024		2023
Production costs	100,984		130,765		328,110		364,889
Cost of blending	(29,818	)	(39,836	)	(116,699	)	(128,523	)
Change in inventory position	2,755		(8,067	)	3,160		2,228
Operating costs	73,921		82,862		214,571		238,594

The operating costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 including the operating costs contribution of the Brooks assets acquisition from the effective date of January 1, 2023 to the completion date of March 3, 2023 amounted to USD 245,395 thousand.

Net cash/(debt)
The following table sets out how net cash/(debt) is calculated:

USD Thousands	September 30, 2024		December 31, 2023
Bank loans	(6,431	)	(9,031	)
Bonds¹	(450,000	)	(450,000	)
Cash and cash equivalents	299,203		517,074
Net cash/(debt)	(157,228	)	58,043

¹ The bond amount represents the redeemable value at maturity (February 2027).

Reserves and Resources Advisory
This press release contains references to estimates of gross and net reserves and resources attributed to the Corporation’s oil and gas assets. For additional information with respect to such reserves and resources, refer to “Reserves and Resources Advisory” in the MD&A. Light, medium and heavy crude oil reserves/resources disclosed in this press release include solution gas and other by-products. Also see “Supplemental Information regarding Product Types” below.

Reserve estimates, contingent resource estimates and estimates of future net revenue in respect of IPC’s oil and gas assets in Canada are effective as of December 31, 2023, and are included in the reports prepared by Sproule Associates Limited (Sproule), an independent qualified reserves evaluator, in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (NI 51-101) and the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (the COGE Handbook) and using Sproule’s December 31, 2023 price forecasts.

Reserve estimates, contingent resource estimates and estimates of future net revenue in respect of IPC’s oil and gas assets in France and Malaysia are effective as of December 31, 2023, and are included in the report prepared by ERC Equipoise Ltd. (ERCE), an independent qualified reserves auditor, in accordance with NI 51-101 and the COGE Handbook, and using Sproule’s December 31, 2023 price forecasts.

The price forecasts used in the Sproule and ERCE reports are available on the website of Sproule (sproule.com) and are contained in the AIF. These price forecasts are as at December 31, 2023 and may not be reflective of current and future forecast commodity prices.

The reserve life index (RLI) is calculated by dividing the 2P reserves of 468 MMboe as at December 31, 2023 by the mid-point of the 2024 CMD production guidance of 46,000 to 48,000 boepd.

IPC uses the industry-accepted standard conversion of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one barrel of oil (6 Mcf = 1 bbl). A BOE conversion ratio of 6:1 is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a 6:1 conversion basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

Supplemental Information regarding Product Types

The following table is intended to provide supplemental information about the product type composition of IPC’s net average daily production figures provided in this press release:

	Heavy Crude Oil (Mbopd)	Light and Medium Crude Oil (Mbopd)	Conventional Natural Gas (per day)	Total (Mboepd)
Three months ended
September 30, 2024	21.9	7.8	91.9 MMcf (15.3 Mboe)	45.0
September 30, 2023	25.8	7.1	103.4 MMcf (17.3 Mboe)	50.2
Nine months ended
September 30, 2024	23.7	7.9	94.8 MMcf (15.8 Mboe)	47.4
September 30, 2023	25.9	8.6	102.4 MMcf (17.1 Mboe)	51.6
Year ended
December 31, 2023	25.8	8.1	102.8 MMcf (17.1 Mboe)	51.1

This press release also makes reference to IPC’s forecast total average daily production of 46,000 to 48,000 boepd for 2024. IPC estimates that approximately 50% of that production will be comprised of heavy oil, approximately 16% will be comprised of light and medium crude oil and approximately 34% will be comprised of conventional natural gas.

Currency
All dollar amounts in this press release are expressed in United States dollars, except where otherwise noted. References herein to USD mean United States dollars and to MUSD mean millions of United States dollars. References herein to CAD mean Canadian dollars.

The MIL Network –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI Australia: DUBOIS ROAD, WUDINNA (Grass Fire)

Source: Country Fire Service – South Australia

WUDINNA

Pinkawillinie fire

Issued for north of WUDINNA.

The CFS is responding to a bushfire near Wudinna in the Pinkawillinie Conservation Park on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia.

CFS and Department for Environment and Water (DEW) firefighters are currently working in difficult terrain contain this fire and will remain on scene for some time. Observational aircraft have assisted with monitoring the spread of this fire.

Smoke from the fire can be seen overhead and smoke may be impacting other roads in the area, and visibility may be reduced.

This fire is believed to be caused by the lightning event which has caused a number of fires across the district. If you spot an unattended fire please report it to 000.

Message ID 0007832

MIL OSI News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in US and Canada suspended

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (November 5) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Clackamas County of the State of Oregon, Kings County of the State of California and Cache County of the State of Utah in the United States (US) and Rural Municipality of Willner No. 253 of Saskatchewan Province in Canada, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

     A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about about 63 470 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat and about 17.2 million poultry eggs from the US, and about 370 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Canada in the first nine months of this year.

     “The CFS has contacted the American and Canadian authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT CONFERS SHAURYA CHAKRA ON 953327 CORPORAL DABHI SANJAY HIFFABAI ESSA

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 2:41PM by PIB Delhi

953327 Corporal Dabhi Sanjay Hiffabai Environmental Support Services Assistant was enrolled in the IAF on 28 Dec 11 and is on the posted strength of a Transportable Radar Unit with effect from 03 Oct 23.

On 04 May 24, Corporal Dabhi was detailed as an armed escort for Ashok Leyland Stallion vehicle towards collection of ration for the unit from Indian Army Field Supply Depot located 40 km from the unit Op location. At around, 1759h, while returning from the field supply depot, the vehicle was ambushed by three terrorists near Doba ridge at Shahsitar, 1.5 km short of the unit Op location.

At the time of ambush, he was seated on the extreme left of the rear seat of the cabin as per his earmarked role along with two of his fellow armed escorts. Due to heavy and concentrated small arms fire and grenade attack from two sides, he was hit by bullets in his right hand and got inflicted with multiple splinter injuries on face and upper body. Unmindful of his gunshot wound and profuse bleeding, he maintained his composure, tactically adjusted himself and opened retaliatory fire from left side window from his personal weapon (AK-103) on the terrorists. He was the first responder to the attack and continued firing single shots towards terrorists from different angles. Because of his tactical firing, one of the advancing terrorist had to hide behind a boulder located merely 20 meters from the vehicle. However, Cpl Dabhi understood the motive and kept on firing single shots towards the likely position of the hiding terrorist which helped in halting his advance towards their vehicle and finally forced the terrorists to retreat into the nearby jungle. This courageous act of Corporal Dabhi resulted in saving the precious lives of his team members and other collateral damage to service property.

Despite extreme adversities, he established communication with the unit from his personal mobile and informed about the situation at ambush site resulting in launch of immediate evacuation team with required medical aid.

For an act of exceptional courage and exemplary gallantry beyond call of duty, Corporal Dabhi Sanjay Hiffabai is awarded with ‘Shaurya Chakra’.

***

VK/JS/SM

(Release ID: 2096086) Visitor Counter : 71

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Year End Review 2024: Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation,

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 25 JAN 2025 10:14AM by PIB Delhi

The Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of JalShakti has been working relentlessly towards achieving the vision and mission of making India a ‘Water Secure Country’ as envisioned by Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi. The Ministry of Jal Shakti, formed in 2019 by bringing together all water related departments and organizations under one umbrella Ministry, has been playing a pivotal role in implementation of a focused strategy towards making India ‘Water Secure’ while ensuring optimal utilization of precious and scarce water resources across the nation. During the year2024, the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation has undertaken several new initiatives and achieved significant outcomes/milestones. Following is some of the key achievements of the Department in 2024:

National Mission forClean Ganga (NMCG)

National Mission for Clean Ganga, in the year 2024, completed 25 projects which resulted in the completion of a cumulative total of 303 projects, sofar, and also sanctioned 39 new projects amounting to ₹ 2,056 crore, bringing the cumulative total to 488 projects sanctioned worth ₹ 39,730 crore. In sewerage infrastructure, 12 projects for the creation/ rehabilitation of 305 MLD sewage treatment capacity have been sanctioned between January to December 2024. In the same period, 16 projects for the creation/ rehabilitation of 750 MLD sewage treatment capacity have been completed. Till date, a total of 203 sewerage infrastructure projects have been sanctioned in the Ganga Basin for the creation of 6,255 MLD sewage treatment capacity and the laying of a 5,249 km sewer network.

Other key achievements during the year 2024 are as follows:

(A) Inauguration and Laying of Foundation Stones Sewerage infrastructure projects by Hon’ble Prime Minister (Under Nirmal Ganga)

On 25^thJanuary 2024, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated the following projects with a cumulative cost of ₹ 790.5 Crores from Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh.

Construction of 30 MLD STP at Masani, Mathura (under Hybrid Annuity-basedPPP (HAM) model under Namami Gange Program), Rehabilitation of existing (30 MLD at Trans Yamuna and 6.8 MLD STP at Masani, Mathura) total 36.8 MLD and Construction of 20 MLD TTRO plant (Tertiary Treatment and Reverse Osmosis Plant), Masani, Mathura

Construction of 58 MLD STP with 264 km and sewerage Network at Moradabad

On 1st March 2023, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated three projects worth
₹ 575 crore from Hooghly, West Bengal. These projects include, 40 MLD STP work with Interception & Diversion at Bally, West Bengal, 60 MLD STP work with Interception & Diversion at Kamarhati and Baranagar Municipalities, West Bengal and 65 MLD STP work with Interception & Diversion at Howrah.

On 2^nd March 2024, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated twelve projects worth ₹ 2,189 crore from Aurangabad, Bihar. These projects include 60 MLD STP and 162 km sewerage network at Saidpur, Patna, 60 MLD STP at Pahari, Patna, 93 km sewerage network at Pahari Zone IVA (S), Patna, 116 km sewerage network at Pahari Zone V, Patna, 180 km sewerage network at Beur, Patna, 96 km sewerage network at Karmalichak, Patna, 11 MLD STP at Barh, Patna, 10 MLD STP at Sultanganj, Bhagalpur, 9 MLD STP at Naugachia, Bhagalpur, 3.50 MLD STP at Sonepur, Saran, 32 MLD STP at Chhapra, Saran.

On 10^th March 2024, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated three sewage projects worth ₹ 1,114 crore from Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh. These projects include 72 MLD STP and I&D network work at Naini (District-G, 42 MLD), Phaphamau (District-F, 14 MLD) and Jhunsi (16 MLD), Prayagraj, 30 MLD STP and I&D network work at Jaunpur and 45 MLD STP and I&D network work at Etawah.

On 2^nd October 2024, the Hon’ble Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for ten sewage treatment plant (STP) projects with a total cost of ₹ 1,555 crore. Among these, five projects worth ₹ 534.25 crore were inaugurated across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Additionally, laid the foundation stone for five more projects across Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, amounting to ₹ 1,021 crore.

(B) Inauguration and Laying of Foundation Stones Sewerage infrastructure projects by Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti (Under Nirmal Ganga)

On 4^th January 2024, the Hon’ble Union Minister for Jal Shakti inaugurated 14 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) with a 2.4 km Interception & Diversion (I&D) Network worth ₹ 77.36 crores in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh.

On 18^th January 2024, the Hon’ble Union Minister for Jal Shakti laid the foundation stone for the 220 MLD Meerut sewage treatment plant (STP) with interception and diversion (I&D) project worth ₹ 370 crore in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.

Training on Occupational Health & Safety Audit

NMCG organized 9 virtual safety training program and trained more than 1,500 officials on “Occupational Health and Safety Audit (OHSA)” From January 2024 to December 2024, to ensure workplace safety and compliance.

Activities Under Biodiversity Conservation (Under Aviral Ganga)

The programme has sanctioned projects focused on protecting and rehabilitating fishery, turtles, crocodiles, and dolphins. Projects Sanctioned in the year 2024 are as under :

Advancing Rescue System for the protection of stranded Ganges river Dolphins.
Conservation, Reintroduction, and Rehabilitation of threatened Turtles along ganga basin.

· Expanding Conservation Breeding Programme of Freshwater Turtle and Gharial at Kukrail Rehabilitation Centre, Lucknow

NMCG, in partnership with CIFRI, has successfully implemented fish ranching programs for Indian Major Carps and other species. In 2024, notable achievements include – Ranching of Indian Major Carps (IMC): 49.25 lakhs, Mahseer: 7,370, Hilsa: 42,117 and Hilsa tagging: 1,387 nos.

Important Activities (under Jan Ganga)

Launch of Namami Niranjana Abhiyan: NMCG launched the “Namami Niranjana Abhiyan” on 20^th February 2024, aimed at ensuring the perennial flow of the Niranjana (Falgu) river and bolstering the ongoing efforts of the “Niranjana (Falgu) River Recharge Mission”. The Falgu river, revered as Niranjana in Bodhgaya and Falgu in Gaya, originates from Belgadda in the Simaria block of Chatra district, Jharkhand, holding profound significance in the Hindu Sanatan religion. Pilgrims partake in rituals such as PindDaan and Tarpan for their ancestors using water from the Falgu river.
Celebration of International Day of Yoga: On the occasion of the International Day of Yoga, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) organized ‘Ghat Par Yoga’ at BSF Camp, Zero Pushta, Sonia Vihar in Delhi on the bank of River Yamuna on 21^st June, 2024. Over 1,000 people participated in the event including officials and staff from the NMCG, NGOs under the Yamuna Action Plan (YAP-III) of the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), the Border Security Force (BSF), Ganga Vichar Manch, various other NGOs, as well as students and children.
8^thIndia Water Week 2024: The 8^th edition of India Water Week (IWW) 2024 was held during 17-20 September 2024, in New Delhi, on the theme “Partnerships and Cooperation for Inclusive Water Development and Management.” This prestigious international event has become a key platform for collaboration in water resource management. The event was inaugurated by the President of India, alongside Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti, and Hon’ble Minister of State for Jal Shakti.

Ganga Utsav- A River Festival 2024: On 4^th November 2024, the 8th edition of Ganga Utsav was organized by NMCG at scenic Chandi Ghat in Haridwar to promote the conservation of the Ganga River, emphasize its cultural and spiritual importance, and raise public awareness about cleanliness. The event was inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti in the august presence of the Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Hon’ble Uttarakhand Minister for Women & Child Welfare, Secretary, DoWR, RD & GR, Ministry of Jal Shakti, and DG, NMCG. This eighth edition of the event was the first time held on the riverbank, with celebrations extending across more than 110 districts in the Ganga basin states.The event featured participants from diverse spheres, including students, scientists, spiritual leaders, and more.
9^th India Water Impact Summit: The 9^th India Water Impact Summit (IWIS) & 2^nd Climate Investments and Technology Impact Summit were organised jointly by NMCG & c-Ganga from 4^th to 6^th December 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

International Collaboration

Meeting with German Delegates: On 9^th May 2024, a meeting was held with the Deputy Head of the Economic Division, German Embassy to discuss the current status of projects aimed at rejuvenating the Ganga River, supported through bilateral cooperation between India and Germany.
Workshop on Strengthening Quality Infrastructure for Water Monitoring of the Ganges River II: NMCG in association with Physikalisch- Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) under Indo-German Technical Cooperation Programme organised a 6-day training programme from 22^nd July to 31^st July 2024.
Inception Workshop for District Ganga Plans: On 5^th July 2024, NMCG in association with GIZ organized an inception workshop for the District Ganga Plans. The workshop aimed to create comprehensive District Ganga Plans (DGPs) based on a River Basin Management approach, which has been prepared for four pilot districts.
Smart Laboratory for Clean Rivers (SLCR): The Smart Lab for Clean Rivers (SLCR) has been set up under the Green Strategic Partnership between India and Denmark to bring global solutions on current challenges in the field of clean river water, conduct collaborative research and development to fit in real environment through Living lab approach and creation of platform between Government authorities, academic institutions and technology providers for knowledge sharing and co-creation to achieve clean river water.
Meeting of the Joint Review Committee: On 9^th October 2024, the first meeting of the Joint Review Committee (JRC) under the India-Israel Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was held under the chairmanship of DG, NMCG, to address priority areas such as reducing non-revenue water, urban water management through IoT and AI, wastewater treatment, and sewage sludge management.

Development of knowledge products (Under Gyan Ganga)

The ‘River Atlas for Ganga Main Stem Districts’, an in-house developed knowledge product of the GKC was launched by the Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti on 09^thDecember 2024 during the 13th Empowered Task Force Meeting. The atlas comprises maps of River Ganga and its tributaries, covering five main stem states in the Ganga basin – Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. This comprehensive Atlas is essential for the effective implementation of policies and programs and accurate planning and informed decision-making.

National Water Mission (NWM)

MoU with Girganga Parivar Trust (Girganga) has been signed on 22.10.2024 on Pro bono basis. They have committed to build 11,111 bore well recharge and 11,111 check dams.
MoU with Sarkaritel.com/jalprahari.in has been signed on 13.12.2024 on Pro bono basis. They have committed for generating awareness on Water Conservation in the public.
MoU with Vyakti Vikas Kendra India (VVKI), the Art of Living has been signed on 16.12.2024 on Pro bono basis. They have committed for creating of Water recharge structure with the help of implementing many River Rejuvenation Programs through Government scheme MGNREGA

Central Water and Power Research Station, Pune
Central Soil and Material Research Station, New Delhi
National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee
Central Water Commission, New Delhi

Publication of research/ technical reports – 281 Nos.
Organisation of Trainings and workshops – 94 Nos.
Training of people for capacity building- 2623 persons
Publication of high impact technical report & research papers – 18 Nos.

13 new research schemes has been recommended by Standing Advisory Committee and approved by Secretary (WR).
The research project “Hydro-geological Assessment and Socio-Economic implications of Depleting Water Resources in tourist towns of Uttarakhand” has been completed.
The research project “Irrigation Efficiency Improvement through On–farm Water Management” has been completed.
The research project “Dynamic Downscaling to study Climate Change Impacts on
Water Resource in India” has been completed.

National Water Development Agency (NWDA): Inter-Linking of Rivers Project

Under National Perspective Plan (NPP) formulated by Government of India, 30 inter-basin water transfer links (16 Peninsular and 14 Himalayan component) have been identified by National Water Development Agency for preparation of Feasibility Reports. Detailed Projects Reports (DPRs) of 11 links, Feasibility Reports (FRs) of 26 links and Pre-Feasibility Reports (PFRs) of all the 30 links have been prepared. The Inter-Linking River (ILR) Programme has been taken up on high priority by Government of India. The works related to ILR projects are already in progress. Five links have been identified as priority links by Govt. of India viz., Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP), Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project (MPKC) and Godavari-Cauvery (G-C) Link Project (comprising of 3 link systems).

System studies of four link projects viz.; Manas-Sanksoh-Teesta-Ganga (MSTG) link, Ganga-Damodar-Subernarekha (GDS) link, Subernarekha-Mahanadi (SM) link and Farakka-Sunderbans (FS) link have been initiated and the work of these four links has been awarded to IIT, Guwahati, NIT, Patna, NIT, Warangal and NIH, Roorkee respectively. Inception Reports have been submitted in June, 2023 by all the four Institutes. The draft final reports of MSTG and GDS have been submitted by the respective Institutes. The system studies of Mahanadi-Godavari link have been completed by NIH, Roorkee and the Final Report has been submitted in May, 2023. Awarding of work for system studies of southern linkage initiated, however, it may be taken up after finalization of quantity of water that can be transferred from MSTG, GDS, FS and SM link projects to Mahanadi river, as per system studies.

Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP): is the first inter-linking of rivers (ILR) project for which implementation has been initiated. The project will be of immense benefit to the water starved Bundelkhand Region, spread across the States of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh which includes districts of Panna, Tikamgarh, Niwari, Chhatarpur, Sagar, Damoh, Datia, Vidisha, Shivpur&Raisen and Banda, Mahoba, Jhansi & Lalitpur respectively. The status of KBLP is as given below:

Subsequent to signing of tripartite agreement in year, 2021, Govt. of India approved implementation of the project in December, 2021 at an estimated cost of Rs. 44,605 Crore with central support of Rs. 39,317 Crore.
With allocation of budget under RE of FY 2021-22, the implementation of the project has started.
Steering Committee and Ken-Betwa Link Project Authority (KBLPA) were been constituted vide Gazette Notification dated 11.02.2022.
KBLPA HQ Office is set up at Bhopal with three more offices at Chhatarpur, Panna and Jhansi, which are fully functional with regular CEO/ACEOs, Director (Fin.) and other officials.
Six meetings of Steering Committee and Six meetings of KBLPA have been held so far.
Initially the focus is on land acquisition, R&R, fulfilling the compliances to the conditions of forest clearance and wildlife clearance.
Greater Panna Landscape Council (GPLC) under Chief Secretary, Govt. of MP has been constituted for implementation of Landscape Management Plan through various stakeholders. Its first meeting was held on 05.09.23. Sub-Committee of GPLC was constituted on 16.10.2023 and its 1^st& 2^nd meetings were held on 17.10.2023 & 29.11.2023 respectively.
Planning for an Integrated Research and Learning Centre (IRLC) at Panna has already been initiated by WII.
The Monitoring Committee for R&R works of KBLP under Secretary, DoLR, MoRD has been constituted.
Collector, Chhattarpur has made payment of Rs. 197.23 Crore to the affected Families. Whereas, Collector Panna has made payment of Rs.76.82 Crore to the affected families of Panna. The remaining Land Acquisition Payment for Private land in both the districts are in Progress.
The work for engagement of Project Management Consultant (PMC) is in process. 9 bids were received for PMC, Result of Technical Evaluation of Bids was published on the CPP Portal on 22.08.2024. The Financial Proposals of the 5 technically qualified firms were opened on 10.09.2024. 20 meetings of Consultancy Evaluation Committee (CEC) for hiring PMC have been held so far. 20^th meeting of CEC was held on 11.09.2024 for financial evaluation of bids. After financial and technical evaluation of bids received, recommendations of the CEC have been submitted to DoWR,RD&GR, MoJS for approval on 13.09.2024.
A Technical Advisory Group for KBLP (TAG-KBLP) for KBLPA has been constituted to review and advise KBLPA on various planning and technical matters on implementation of various components of the link project. 10 meetings of TAG have been held so far.
The tender document for the main component of the project i.e. Daudhan dam and its Appurtenant works (EPC mode) was finalized by Technical Advisory Group of KBLP and the Tender Evaluation Committee (TEC) and floated on CPP portal on 11.08.2023. The complete proposal of technical and financial evaluation of bids was sent to Ministry of Jal Shakti that has been approved by Ministry. Subsequently, KBLPA has issued Letter of Acceptance to M/s NCC Limited for the work of Daudhan dam on 28.11.2024.
Stage–II Forest Clearance for diversion of 6017.00 ha of forest land for development of KBLP has been accorded by MoEF& CC on 03.10.2023.
The draft tender for EPC execution of Ken-Betwa Link Canal is prepared in two packages and circulated to State Governments of MP and UP for their comments/suggestions. Suggestions from Govt. of UP have been received.
PTR has accepted total 6017 ha non-forest land Transferred/ Mutated. Notification of 6017 ha has been completed by Forest Department under section-29 of Indian Forest Act-1927 and has been published.
Land in submergence: 3239 ha (Govt. Land: 1784.67 ha + Private Land 1454.33 ha) of land is coming under submergence area of Daudhan Dam. Private land of 1454.33 ha and Government land of 1604.429 ha has been mutated in favour of WRD, MP. Balance 180.241 ha Government land is likely to be transferred to WRD, MP soon.
Land Acquisition for Ken Betwa Link canal (99 villages of MP and 10 villages of UP) is under progress.
The work on State specific components like Lower Orr, Kotha Barrage and Bina Complex Multipurpose Project is already in progress. Head Works of Lower Orr has been completed whereas Head Works for Kotha & Bina are ongoing.

Cumulative Progress (%) upto December, 2024

Lower Orr : 67.00
Kotha Barrage: 59.00
Bina Complex: 50.20

The preparation of DPRs of components of UP likes two barrages, renovation and modernization of Tanks of Mahoba district, renovation and modernization of three weirs and ken command system is in progress.
Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji laid the Foundation Stone of KBLP on 25.12.2024 at Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh).
The project is planned to be completed in 8 years by March, 2030.

Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project (MPKC):

PFR has been circulated to concerned States. The work of DPRs is under progress.
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed on 28.01.2024 amongst States of MP, Rajasthan and Govt. of India.
Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) of Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal link project has been signed on 05.12.2024 amongst States of MP, Rajasthan and Govt. of India. Subsequently Hon’ble Prime Minister declared the signing of the agreement on 17^th December, 2024 at Rajasthan.

Godavari-Cauvery (G-C) Link Project (comprising of 3 link systems):

Modified proposal for transfer of 4189 MCM of water from Godavari along with supplementation in Krishna basin through Bedti-Varda link (524 MCM) has been studied by NWDA.
Draft DPR of the modified /revised proposal has circulated to the concerned State/UT during Jan., 2024.
Draft MoA has been prepared for implementation of the project and circulated to concerned State/UT for perusal and observation during April, 2024.
Concerted efforts are being made for building up consensus amongst the States/UT for signing of MoA for the early implementation of this link project.

8^th India Water Week 2024:

IWW-2024 was successfully organized/held from 17^th to 20^th September, 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
The theme of the 8^th India Water Week is “Partnerships and Cooperation for Inclusive Water Development and Management”.
The mega event was inaugurated by the Hon’ble President of India.
The four-day multi-disciplinary conference comprises of Ministerial Plenary, Global Water Leaders’ Plenary (2), Country Forum (4), Water Leaders Forum (9), Practitioner’s Forum (8), Startup Forum, Youth Forum, Water Convention (18) one-day study tour and concurrently organized exhibition. Denmark, Australia and Israel were the Partner Countries. There were 15 Partner States viz.; Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, J&K, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana.

More than 4500 delegates from India & abroad participated in the IWW-2024. About 215 delegates from 40 countries participated in the conference. Parallel to the conference, in the exhibition 143 Exhibitors from Central, States Government, Public Sector undertakings, Private Firms, NGOs, Startups and Schools etc. showcased their technologies.

Central Water Commission (CWC)

(i) Central Water Commission has undertaken sedimentation assessment studies of selected reservoirs located in various States using Satellite Remote Sensing technique under the plan scheme “Research & Development Programme in Water Sector”. It is planned to take up the studies in respect of 80 reservoirs during 2021-26. Accordingly, the work of carrying out the study for the first batch of 40 reservoirs was outsourced. Due to non-availability of either the desired water levels or satellite data for a reservoir on date of satellite pass, study in respect of 31 reservoirs was feasible which has been completed and reports published during 2022 to 2024. Besides this sedimentation studies in respect of 30 reservoirs have been completed in-house using Remote Sensing Techniques. Furthermore, a Google Earth Engine-based tool has also been developed by CWC officers, in-house under Smart Water Resources Modelling Organization (SWRMO) – Centre for Excellence, to automate the assessment of sedimentation in the live storage zone of reservoir.

(ii) A World Bank (WB) and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) team conducted the Mid-Term Review (MTR) mission for the Second Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP-2) between January 17 and May 3, 2024. The mission held discussions with Implementing Agencies (IAs) in Bhubaneshwar (Odisha), Surat (Gujarat), and New Delhi and undertook field visits to selected dams in Gujarat (Ukai) and Odisha (Hirakud, Rengali). The wrap-up meeting was held in New Delhi, chaired by Joint Secretary, D/o WR, RD&GR, Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) and attended by Project Director, Central Water Commission (CWC), members of the Central Project Management Unit (CPMU), the Engineering and Management Consultant (EMC), and representatives of all Implementing Agencies (IA). As part of the mission, a detailed exercise on the use of the rapid risk assessment tool for Indian dams, in compliance with the National Dam Safety Act 2021, was carried out between March 5 and May 3, 2024.

(iii) The quarterly dialogues on Coastal Area Management, initiated as per the direction of the Chairman, Central Water Commission (CWC) was held in April and May 2024.These dialogues brought together stakeholders from various levels of government, research institutions, and relevant departments to discuss pressing issues such as coastal erosion, salinity ingress, and the need for robust data collection and management. The dialogues provided a platform for sharing information, best practices, and innovative solutions from all stakeholders. As an outcome of the Quarterly Dialogue, CWC has published a report titled “Status Report on Coastal Area Management- An Indian Perspective, Region Issues & Remedial Measures”. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and initiatives related to coastal management in India. The report highlights the significant impacts of coastal erosion and salinity ingress, emphasizing the need for robust data collection, effective mitigation strategies, and increased collaboration among stakeholders.

(iv) A Smart Water Resources Modelling Organization acts as Centre of Excellence to grow as a pioneering hub for developing in-house expertise and innovation in tackling diverse problem statements and studies in water sector and directly reports to Chairman, CWC.

(v) Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 06.06.2024between Central Water Commission (CWC) and IIT, Roorkeefor research work related to Irrigation Efficiency Assessment, Water Accounting studies, Cropped Area Mapping, Water Auditing, Urban Flood Forecasting & Risk Management, Urban Flood Inundation & Hazard Mapping, etc. These works will be carried out through mutual consultations and collaboration, leveraging the expertise and resources of both institutions.

(vi) A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between Central Water Commission (CWC) and Space Application Centre (SAC) in the field of hydrology and water resources management, leveraging remote sensing and collaborative research efforts for mutual benefit on 08^th July,2024.

(vii) Support for Irrigation Modernization Program (SIMP): Central Water Commission (CWC), DoWR, RD & GR has taken up an initiative Support for Irrigation Modernization Program (SIMP) with technical assistance from theAsian Development Bank (ADB) to modernize Major/ Medium Irrigation (MMI) projects in the country.

(viii) SIMP is proposed to be taken up in 4 phases. SIMP Phase-1 concluded on 31.12.2021 under which 4 MMI projects have been identified for inclusion under 1st batch of projects for preparation of Irrigation Modernization Plans (IMPs) out of the 57 proposals received from 14 States and 2 UTs. The entire process including the preparation of IMPs, Detailed Project Report (DPRs), detailed designs and final implementation/ project execution is expected to be completed by Phase-4. Implementation of the project would lie with the concerned States who would have an option to either fund it from their own resources or they can avail loan facility from ADB or any other financial institutions.

(ix) SIMP Phase-2 was initiated from November 2022. Irrigation Modernization Plan (IMP) of four projects namely VanivilasaSagara Project, Karnataka, Palkhed Project Maharashtra, Purna Project, Maharashtra and Loharu Lift Irrigation Project, Haryana have been prepared. As a 1st step for preparation of IMPs, FAO developed RAP-MASSCOTE (Rapid Appraisal Procedure-Mapping System and Services for Canal Operation Techniques) workshops were organized to assess the present status of the identified four projects. The findings of RAP MASSCOTE workshops and issues related to Batch 1 SIMP projects were discussed in a mid-term workshop organized by ADB and CWC on 09.06.2023 at New Delhi.

For capacity building under SIMP phase-II, the following activities were organized:

From 6th to 10th November 2023, a five days training on modernization and design of Pipe Distribution Networks (PDN) was organized at Panchkula/ Chandigarh. 22 Engineers from Karnataka, Maharashtra, Haryana, Punjab and CWC participated in the training.
On 15th and 20th December 2023, a Webinar on Irrigation Modernization and Design of PDN Systems was organized.
A Training on Asset Management Planning for Irrigation Schemes was held from 8^th to 12^th January 2024 at WALMI, Aurangabad.
A training on new technologies in Agriculture and Water Practices was held from 22^nd to 25^th January 2024 at HIRMI, Kurukshetra, Haryana.

The Preliminary Project Reports (PPR) of all the four projects has been submitted by ADB to the concerned project authorities. PPR of Loharu, Haryana is under process with Govt department. PPR of Palkhed and Purna, Maharashtra is under process in Planning Department of Haryana, PPR of VVS, Karnataka is under process with state finance Govt of Maharashtra.

PPRs are to be finalized by the states and submitted to DEA. After necessary approval from DEA, action for phase-3 will be taken up for preparation of DPRs.

(x) A Training program on the application of Rapid Risk Assessment tool, in association with the World Bank for the officers of the core group was held during April 22, 2024 – May 3, 2024 at Auditorium, 1st floor, CWC Library Building, Near Sewa Bhawan, Sector-1, R K Puram, New Delhi. Total 66 officials nominated by CWC, NDSA and States / DRIP IAs for taking forward the assignment of carrying out the Rapid Risk Assessment of specified dams in the country.

GLOF and Flood forecasting activities: –

CWC finalized the criteria for Risk Indexing of Glacial Lakes in the Indian Himalayan Region in September 2024, which provide a comprehensive methodology for identifying and categorizing Glacial Lakes based on factors such as Glacial Lake size, Glacial Lake type, Side slope, Snout distance from GL etc. and the potential socio-economic impacts of a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood.

In the year 2024, 2 new stations (Inflow) have started functioning. Currently CWC is providing flood forecast at 340 stations (200-level forecasting stations & 140-inflow forecasting stations). During the period from 1st April to 30.11.2024, 10415 (i.e. 7093 Level and 3322 Inflow) forecasts were issued, out of which 9947 (95.5%) forecasts were found within the accuracy limit (±0.15m for level forecast and ±20% for inflow forecast).During flood season, CWC operates the Central Flood Control Room on 24×7 basis at its headquarter in New Delhi and 36 Divisional Flood Control Rooms spread throughout the country for monitoring flood situation. On an average, about 10,000 forecasts are issued during flood season every year by the CWC. Normally, these forecasts are issued 6 to 30 hours in advance, depending upon the river terrain and location of the flood forecasting sites and their base stations. In addition to conventional flood forecasting techniques, mathematical model forecasting based on rainfall-run off methodology is being used for some areas. This has enabled CWC to issue 7-day advance flood advisory.

Automated online 7-day flood advisory for all the level and inflow forecasting stations is maintained. “Flood Situation for next seven days” in respect of stations likely to be above warning level has been added in the “Daily Flood Situation Report cum Advisory” based on the 7-day advisory.

Flood Plain Zoning

In order to have a reasonable degree of protection, floods need to be managed through both structural & non-structural measures so as to reduce the losses. Non-structural measures are planned activities to modify susceptibility due to flood related damages. These are meant to keep people away from floods. Flood Plain Zoning is one of the main non-structural measures for management of floods worldwide.

A technical committee under the chairmanship of Member (RM) was constituted during November 2022 for formulation of ‘Technical Guidelines on Flood Plain Zoning’ . After due deliberations, the committee submitted the guidelines to Ministry. The guidelines is presently under circulation to the states for their comments/review. Once implemented, these guidelines shall serve as a valuable document in guiding the states in framing their own legislation in protecting their rivers from future encroachments.

Hydrological Studies:

The success of a project is largely governed by the hydrological inputs. The success of a project is largely governed by the hydrological inputs. The Hydrological Studies Organization (HSO), a specialized unit under Design and Research (D&R) Wing of CWC, carries out hydrological studies in respect of the water resources projects in the country. The inputs in Detailed Project Report (DPR) or Pre- Feasibility (PFR) stage are made available in the form of:

Water availability/yield studies.
Design flood estimation.
Sedimentation studies.
Diversion flood studies.

The country has been divided into 7 zones and further into 26 hydro- meteorologically homogeneous sub-zones and flood estimation models are developed for each subzone to compute the design flood in ungauged catchments. So far, flood estimation reports covering 24 sub-zones have been published. During the year 2024- 25, technical examinations of hydrological aspects of DPRs in respect of 88 projects have been carried out in CWC. Out of this, 46 projects have been cleared and comments were issued for 17 projects. Rest of the projects are under examination.

Some of the major works carried out during this period are:

• Flood frequency analysis & carrying capacity of Yamuna River from Hathnikund Barrage to Delhi.

• Hydrology Chapter for Bakchachuu HEP, Ringyang HEP, &RimbiKhola HEP has been submitted.

• 100 yr& 500 yr Return Period flood of Chandrawal River under Ken Betwa Link project.

• Water Availability of the untapped catchment between alignment of feeder canal, Mahalpur barrage and Navnera Barrage Under MPKC link.

Technical Assistance / Advice tendered

HSO has provided secretariat assistance to various technical/ expert committees for undertaking special studies on various aspects related to water resources development and management. Some of the important contributions during the year 2024- 25 are as under:

Hydrological Studies for Ponnaiyar River Basin, to resolve the interstate issue between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Hydrological modeling for heavy rainfall across the Yamuna River catchment in July 2023 caused significant runoff and discharge, leading to rapid water level rises. In this study estimated submergence areas for different return-period floods, analyzed embankment overtopping, and identified drainage congestion and afflux of existing structures using 2-D modeling for the river reach between 21 km upstream of Wazirabad barrage and 10 km downstream of Okhla barrage.

Hydrological modeling for tackling issues related to high intensity rainfall, riverine flood, drainage and interrelated issues in urban areas.

Planning and Design of Water Resources Projects

CWC is actively associated with design of majority of the mega water resources projects in India and neighboring countries, viz., Nepal and Bhutan by way of design consultancy or in the technical appraisal of the projects. At present CWC is provided design consultancy to 94 projects. Out of this, 31 projects (including 3 from neighboring countries) are at construction stage, 35 projects (including 2 from neighboring countries) are at DPR stage and 28 projects involve special problems.

National Committee on Seismic Design Parameters: –

The National Committee on Seismic Design Parameters (NCSDP) was constituted by MoWR Order dated 21 st October, 1991 with the objective to recommend the seismic design parameters for the proposals received from the dam owners. Member (D&R), CWC is the chairman of the committee with 12 other experts from various engineering disciplines from different technical institutions and Government organizations as its members. Director (FE&SA), CWC is the member Secretary of NCSDP. The 38th meeting of NCSDP was held on 10.05.2024 at CWC, New Delhi under the Chairmanship of Member (D&R) wherein six projects were cleared.

Further, a special meeting of NCSDP was held on 05.06.2024 wherein the Guideline for Preparation and Submission Of Site-Specific Seismic Study Report of River Valley Project To National Committee On Seismic Design Parameters was revised comprehensively to be in line with the International practices.

National Register of Large Dams:

Before enactment of Dam Safety Act 2021, Dam Safety Organisation (DSO) , CWC compiled and maintained the register of large dams across the country in the form of National Register of Large Dams (NRLD) based on information provided by State Govts. / PSUs. After enactment of Dam Safety Act 2021, the NDSA has been mandated to maintain National level database of all specified dam in the country. The National Register of Specified (Large) Dams 2023 was released by Hon’ble Vice President of India in International Conference on Dam Safety held during 14th-15th September 2023 at Jaipur. As per NRLD- 2023, there are 6138 constructed and 143 under construction dams in the country. The NRLD, 2023 is available on CWC’s website and can be accessed by l ink- https:// cwc. gov. in/ publication/nrld.

Technical Examination of Instrumentation aspects of the projects:

Hydroelectric project:-

Detailed Project Report (DPR)/ construction drawings of 29 river valley projects in various States/ countries namely Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Odisha, Sikkim Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Jammu & Kashmir, Bhutan and Nepal were examined, out of which 4 projects have been cleared with respect to instrumentation aspects and remaining 25 projects are at various stages of examination.

Pumped storage Project:-

Detailed Project Report (DPR)/ construction drawings of 42 river valley projects in various States/ countries namely Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh were examined, out of which 6 projects have been cleared with respect to instrumentation aspects and for remaining 36 projects, clearance from instrumentation aspects is no longer required as per the latest CEA guidelines.

Standing Technical Advisory Committee of CSMRS

The Standing Technical Advisory Committee (STAC) was constituted under the Chairmanship of Member (D&R), CWC for providing an overall perspective and guidance in technical scrutiny of research schemes being undertaken at CSMRS. The STAC is composed of 11 members drawn from various public sector institutions and is headed by Member (D& R), CWC. The 39th Standing Technical Advisory Committee (STAC) meeting of CSMRS was held on 25.10.2024

Other Seismic works:

Work related to technical evaluation and critical examination of web-based tool Seismic Hazard Assessment Information System (SHAISYS) being developed by IIT Roorkee and CWPRS Pune under DRIP is being carried out. A meeting is proposed on 18th December 2024 under the chairmanship of Member (D&R), CWC with the expert of IIT Roorkee at CWC, New Delhi regarding way forward for development of SHAISYS.

CWC Activities under National Hydrology Project (NHP):

Study on “Physical based Mathematical Modelling for estimation of Sediment Rate and Sediment Transport in Seven River Basin” has been completed.

Extended Hydrological Prediction (multi week forecast) for Yamuna, Narmada and Cauvery basins is in progress.

Reservoir Sedimentation Studies using Hydrographic survey for 32 reservoirs” under Phase-I has been completed. Works of Phase II: Consists of 87 reservoirs in 10 states (Rajasthan, Gujrat, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Telangana, and Odisha is under progress.
Supply, Installation, Testing & Commissioning (SITC) of 93 Nos. ADCP (14 + 29 + 50 in three phases) for the measurement of discharge at the HO sites of CWC has been completed. Further procurement of additional 46 no’s ADCP and 8 no’s Total station is in under progress.
Supply, Installation, Testing & Commissioning (SITC) of 32 velocity radar sensors for modernization of discharge observations has been completed.
7 no’s of Water Quality Equipment (ICP-MS and GC-MS) have been commissioned and installation & Commissioning of 3 more Water Quality Equipment (1 GC-MS and 2 ICP-MS) is under process.
Consultancy services for “Early Flood Warning System Including Inundation Forecast in Ganga Basin” is in progress.
Consultancy services for Development of Decision Support System near to real time for Integrated Reservoir Operation System of Ganga Basin” has been completed.
Real Time Data Acquisition System (RTDAS) for Narmada Control Authority (NCA) and Arunachal Pradesh comprising of network of 48 & 50 no’s hydro meteorological Stations respectively has been commissioned.
Reservoir Sedimentation Studies using Hydrographic survey for 32 reservoirs” under National Hydrology Project, Phase-I have been completed and reports published and under Phase II studies in respect of 87 reservoirs are taken up.

DAM REHABILITATION AND IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (DRIP) Phase-II and III

Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) is an externally aided project with financial assistance from the World Bank, targeting rehabilitation of some of the selected dams of the Country along with accompanying institutional strengthening component.

Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (Phase-II & III):

Based on the success of DRIP Phase- I, Ministry of Jal Shakti initiated another externally funded scheme, DRIP Phase-II and Phase-III. The Union Cabinet has approved the Scheme on October 29, 2020.

The scheme has provision for rehabilitation of 736 dams located in 19 States (Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, and three Central Agencies (Central Water Commission, Bhakra Beas Management Board, and Damodar Valley Corporation). It is a State Sector Scheme with Central component, with duration of 10 years, to be implemented in two Phases i.e. Phase- II and Phase-III, each of six years duration with an overlap of two years. The budget outlay is Rs 10,211 Cr (Phase II: Rs 5107 Cr; Phase III: Rs 5104 Cr) with rehabilitation provision of 736 dams. Out of this cost, Rs. 7,000 crore is an external loan and Rs. 3,211 crores would be borne by the respective participating States and the three Central agencies. The funding pattern of scheme is 80:20 (Special Category States), 70:30 (General Category States) and 50:50 (Central Agencies). The scheme also has provision of Central Grant of 90% of loan amount for special category States (Manipur, Meghalaya and Uttarakhand). The DRIP Phase-II and III Scheme is 10 years duration, proposed to be implemented in two Phases, each of six-year duration with two years overlapping. Each Phase has external assistance of US$ 500 M. The Phase-II of the scheme is being co-financed by World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), with funding of US$ 250 million each. The loan agreement by World Bank was signed on August 04, 2021 with 10 States (Gujarat, Kerala, MP, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Rajasthan, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Chhattisgarh) and became effective from 12th October, 2021. In addition to 10 States, four States (Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Karnataka) have been notified by World Bank for inclusion under this scheme in June 2022 and their loan declared effective in January 2023.

The loan agreement by AIIB was signed on 19th May, 2022 with 10 States (Gujarat, Kerala, MP, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Rajasthan, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Chhattisgarh) and declared effective on 29th December, 2022 by AIIB.

Inclusion of four States (Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Punjab, Telangana) and two Central Agencies (BBMB and DVC) is under process.

Important project achievements include approval of PSTs of 139 dams costing Rs 3715 Cr by the World Bank. The contract(s) amounting approximately Rs 2906 Cr have been awarded by various Implementing Agencies and an amount of Rs 1487 Cr spent as on 30.11.2024 on various project activities including dam rehabilitation, institutional strengthening and project management activities

A training on DRIP Ph-II &Ph-III was given to 40 officers of Punjab WRD on 12th June 2024 at Shahpur Kandi. Few topics were covered like Overview of DRIP Ph-II &Ph-III scheme; dam structural problems & their identification; Procurement procedures; Hydro-Mechanical structural problems; PST preparation; Financial Management of DRIP scheme etc.

A three days training on DFR organized during 8th to 10th July, 2024, in which 22 participants from seven (7) states and CWC participated.

The Management Information System (MIS-with 05 modules) was officially rolled out to SPMU on 14^th August 2024. In this regard a virtual MIS demonstration was organized on 14th August 2024 in which concerned officials of CPMU, SPMU, and EMC participated.

2^nd meeting of National Level Steering Committee (NLSC) on DRIP Phase-II and III chaired by Secretary, DoWR, RD and GR were held on 25.09.2024 at New Delhi to discuss the progress and issues of DRIP Scheme.

3^rd meeting of Technical Committee of DRIP Phase II and III was held on 18.10.2024 under the chairmanship of Member (D&R), CWC at Dehradun, Uttarakhand in which nodal officer and Project Director of DRIP IAs participated. Deliberations in respect of technical matters with regard to pertaining to implementation of the scheme were held during the meeting.

National Task Force for Integrated Water Resources Development and Management

National Task Force for Integrated Water Resources Development and Management (NTFIWRDM) has been set up by DoWR, RD & GR vide its OM dated 25.11.2024.

Sustainable development of water resources and its efficient management is the key to water security and economic growth. As a country, aspiring to be the world leader with the most powerful economy, challenges like increasing population, economic growth, industrialization and urbanization are bound to result in increased and conflicting demands for various purposes across the country. Moreover, the vagaries of climate change have already started to affect the water sector adversely. In the wake of ever-growing challenges in the water resources sector, it has become necessary to prospectively assess the projected water use for various purposes. In view of above, Department of Water Resources, RD & GR has set up a National Task Force for Integrated Water Resources Development and Management (NTFIWRDM) on 25.11.2024 under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Member, Niti Aayog with members from various Govt. Departments and experts from different organisations; thereby comprehensively covering various domains of water resources. Chief Engineer, BPMO, CWC is the Member Secretary of the NTFIWRDM. The NTFIWRDM – 2024 is expected to complete its work within 24 months, with interim reports submitted at yearly intervals.

(xxii) LIST OF IMPORTANT PUBLICATIONS OF CWC during 2024

Sl. No.	Publication	Released during
1	Water Sector at a Glance-2022	Aug-2024
2	Water & Related Statistics-2023	Sept-2024
3	Water Sector at a Glance-2023	Sept-2024
4	National Register of Major & Medium Irrigation Projects in India-2024	Sept-2024
5	Compendium on Sedimentation of Reservoirs in India	August 2024
6	Assessment of Area Affected Due to Floods in India	July 2024
7	Report on Flood Damage Statistics (1953-2022)	July 2024
8	Assessment of Area Affected Due to Floods in India [Part II: Assessment at Sub-District Level]	September 2024
9	Criteria for Risk Indexing of Glacial Lakes in Indian Himalayan Region	September 2024
10	Status Report on Coastal Area Management – An Indian Perspective, Regional Issues & Remedial Measures	September 2024

Central Ground Water Board (CGWB):

National Aquifer Mapping and Management Programme (NAQUIM)

Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) is implementing National Aquifer Mapping and Management program (NAQUIM), which envisages mapping of aquifers (water bearing formations), their characterization and development of Aquifer Management Plans to facilitate sustainable management of ground water resources. Out of 32 lakh sq km of the entire country, entire mappable area of 25 sq lakh km has been covered under this programme. NAQUIM outputs are shared with various stakeholders including the District Authorities. Building on the experiences of the NAQUIM, the NAQUIM 2.0 has been initiated from the year 2023-24 which emphasizes on detailed mapping and implementable management plans for identified priority areas. CGWB has completed 68 such studies (covering nearly 40,000 sq km) in year 2024.

In order to create infrastructure for data generation under NAQUIM, a Project has been approved by the Public Investment Board (PIB) with an outlay of Rs 805 Cr for implementation by CGWB during the period 2022-2026. As of now, tenders amounting approximately Rs. 550 Cr have been awarded.

One of the components of the project involves the construction of 7000 piezometers and the installation of Digital Water Level Recorders with telemetry devices for strengthening and automation of groundwater monitoring networks in the country. Construction of piezometers for strengthening groundwater monitoring has been initiated in 15 states (Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, MadhyaPradesh, Chhattisgarh, UttarPradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, WestBengal, Odisha and Jammu&Kashmir). A total of 1796 piezometers have been constructed till 31st December 2024.

Another component of the project involves construction of 1135 Exploratory Wells (EW) and Observation Wells (OW) for completing the data gap in the NAQUIM project area for which work has been initiated under all awarded packages in 11 states (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Assam). A total of 319 EW/OWs have been constructed till 31st December 2024.

Ground Water Resources

The Ground Water Resource Assessment for the water year 2024 was carried out jointly by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and States/UTs, through the web-based automated application “INDIA-GROUNDWATER RESOURCE ESTIMATION SYSTEM (IN-GRES) for the entire country. The assessment provides the state wise ground water resource scenario and insights required to adopt an integrated and sustainable ground water management in the Country.

As per the assessment, the total annual groundwater recharge in the country has been assessed as 446.90 billion Cubic Meter (BCM). The annual extractable ground water resource has been assessed as 406.19 BCM. The annual groundwater extraction for all uses is 245.64 BCM. The average stage of groundwater extraction for the country stands at 60.47 %. Out of the total 6746 assessment units (Blocks/ Mandals/ Talukas) in the country, 4951 (73.4 %) assessment units are categorized as ‘Safe’. 711 (10.5 %) assessment units are categorized “Semi-critical’’, 206 (3.05 %) assessment units, have been categorized as ‘Critical’ and 751 (11.1%) assessment units have been categorized as ‘Over-exploited’. Apart from these, there are 127 (1.8%) assessment units, which have been categorized as ‘Saline’ as major part of the ground water in phreatic aquifers in these units is brackish or saline.

Key Highlights:

Total Annual GW Recharge has increased (15 BCM) substantially and Extraction has declined (3 BCM) in 2024 from 2017 assessment. There is slight reduction in recharge and increase in extraction in the present assessment year compared to the preceding year.
Recharge from Tanks, Ponds and WCS has shown a consistent increase in the last five assessments. In the year 2024, it has increased by 0.39 BCM w.r.t. 2023.
With respect to the year 2017, there is an increase of 11.36 BCM in recharge from Tanks, Ponds & WCS (from 13.98 BCM in 2017 to 25.34 BCM in 2024).
The percentage of Assessment Units under Safe Category have increased from 62.6% in 2017 to 73.4 % in 2024 (The percentage of Safe assessment units was 73.14 % in 2023).
The percentage of Over Exploited Assessment units have declined from 17.24 % in 2017 to 11.13 % in 2024 (The percentage of OE Assessment units was 11.23% in 2023)

The Union Minister for Jal Shakti released “National Compilation of Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India 2024” on 31^st December, 2024.

High resolution aquifer mapping and management in Arid areas of India

The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) has undertaken high resolution aquifer mapping in the arid regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana using advanced heliborne geophysical surveys. Under Phase I of the project, an area of 97,637 sq. km has been surveyed, covering 40,313-line km across 92 blocks in these states.
Based on the heliborne geophysical survey results, Gram Panchayat-level information of saturated/de-saturated, saline/fresh aquifers, groundwater potential zones, drilling sites, and managed aquifer recharge sites has been identified. Detailed reports have been prepared for 39 out of 92 blocks, comprising 20 blocks in Gujarat, 11 in Rajasthan, and 8 in Haryana.
A Coffee Table Book on the Summary of the findings of Heliborne Survey Phase I was released on 19.09.2024 in India Water Week-2024 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi by the Hon’ble Minister of State, Jal Shakti.

Artificial Recharge Activities

Groundwater augmentation through artificial recharge in identified water stressed areas of Rajasthan, comprising Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Alwar, Jhunjhunu & Sikar districts of Rajasthan has been taken up in three phases

Phase-1: Two large dams have been constructed:
- Zoned Earth Fill Dam with Clay Core, Indroka, Mandore, Jodhpur
- Concrete Gravity Dam, Bastawa Mata, Balesar, Jodhpur.
Phase-2: 82 WHS (Stone Masonary Check Dams (MCD), Anicuts, Concrete Check Dams (CCD & Recharge shafts) have been constructed in certain water stressed blocks of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Sikar district.
Phase-3: 39 WHS (Check Dam, Anicut, Model Talab) have been constructed certain water stressed blocks in Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Alwar districts of Rajasthan to know the concentrated effect of artificial recharge.

Regulation of Ground Water extraction

The primary role of Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) is to regulate groundwater resource exploitation in the country. The Authority has been regulating groundwater development and management by way of issuing ‘No Objection Certificates’ for groundwater extraction to industries, infrastructure projects, Mining Projects, registration of drilling rigs etc., and framed guidelines in this connection.

Development of a new portal for NoC issuance to ground water users i.e. BhuNeer APP, which is an advanced version of the application processing software of CGWA for issuing NOC to ground water users of Industries, Infrastructure & Mining projects and Bulk Water Supply. The motto of developing this portal is to provide users a smooth experience with new features and functionalities.

Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training & Research Institute (RGNGWTRI)

It is the training wing of CGWB and functions as a `Centre of Excellence’ with the national role of capacity building of Officers and Officials of CGWB, other Central Govt. Depts., State Govt. Depts., Public Sector Undertakings, Non-Governmental Organizations, Academic institutions and other stake holders through three arms -Tier I (National Level), Tier II (State Level) and Tier III (Block level) trainings.

During the last 10 years, from 2012-13 to 2024-25(As on 24.12.2024) a total of 1711 training courses (Tier-I, Tier-II & Tier-III) were organized (Male 83,330 + Female 30,369 = 1,13,699 Participants) by RGNGWTRI, Raipur.
The institute has also conducted Four trainings for foreign nationals, during the last 10 years

Development of three Indigenous Softwares as part of Smart India Hackathon (SIH) 2022- a significant step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat

Smart India Hackathon (SIH), a nationwide initiative envisioned under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister is an important mega annual event among students to provide solutions through innovations for specific challenges identified by different organizations. It is an annual event organized by the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell, All India Council for Technical Education, along with partners. Based on problem statements shared by CGWB and under the mentorship of CGWB scientists, following three software applications were developed by engineering students as a part of Smart India Hackathon (SIH)

Hydra-Q: A Standalone desktop application for analysis, visualization and interpretation of hydrochemical data.
Aqua Probe: A Standalone desktop application for Pumping Test data analysis.
OASIS-G: Online application System for Stable Isotope Studies-Ground Water

The software applications can be accessed / downloaded from CGWB website (https://www.cgwb.gov.in/freewares-groundwater-data-analysis).

These freeware applications will be useful for students, researchers and groundwater professionals. So far, the software that are used for such kind of analysis are developed mostly in countries other than India. This is a significant step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat and is likely to reduce India’s dependence on foreign software.

Aquifer Management for Augmentation and Sustainability of Urban Water Supply- Faridabad

CGWB has taken up a study on augmentation of water supply to Faridabad city through sustainable ground water development in active Yamuna flood plain in 2024. CGWB has signed MoU with Faridabad Metropolitan Development Authority (FMDA)

Ground Water Quality Analysis

The comprehensive assessment of Ground Water Quality conducted by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) provides valuable insights that can guide remedial actions and inform future planning by various stakeholders. Notably, this report on Ground Water Quality is the first to implement a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for groundwater quality monitoring, which ensures consistency in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Additionally, the use of internationally recognized methods significantly bolsters the credibility and technical rigor of the findings. On December 31, 2024, Sh. CR Paatil, Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti, unveiled the Annual Groundwater Quality Report, 2024.

Key Highlights:

In terms of cation chemistry, calcium dominates the ion content, followed by sodium and potassium. For anions, bicarbonate is the most prevalent, followed by chloride and sulphate. This indicates that overall water in the country is of Calcium-Bicarbonate type.
Some regions face sporadic contamination of nitrates, fluoride, and arsenic.
Seasonal trends observed in parameters like Electrical Conductivity (EC) and fluoride provide evidence of positive monsoon recharge effects, which improve water quality.
From an agricultural perspective, the analysis of Sodium Adsorption Ration (SAR) and Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC) reinforces the generally favorable suitability of groundwater for irrigation, with over 81% of samples meeting safe thresholds. However, localized issues of high sodium content and RSC values demand targeted interventions to prevent long-term soil degradation.
100% of ground water samples in North-Eastern States are in excellent category for irrigation.

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) for 2021-26 with an outlay of ₹93,068 Crore to benefit about 22 lakh farmers

Against a target of 34.63 Lakh Ha irrigation potential of 25.80Lakh Ha (approx.74.5%) created through AIBP works of the prioritized projects during 2016-17 to 2023-24
Nine (09) new MMI projects and two (02) new National projects have been further included under PMKSYAIBP.

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)- Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP):

The Government of India on 27.07.2016 approved funding of the 99 prioritized irrigation projects (and 7 phases) with an estimated balance cost of Rs. 77,595 Crore (Central share- Rs. 31,342 crores; State share- Rs. 46,253 crores) for completion in phases. The works include both the AIBP and CAD works. Funding arrangement for both Central Assistance (CA) and State Share made through NABARD under Long Term Irrigation Fund (LTIF). Targeted Irrigation Potential to be created under the scheme is 34.63 Lakh ha. An expenditure of Rs. 68891 crore (upto March 2024) has been reported to be incurred by the concerned State Governments on these projects since 2016-17. In January 2020, Ministry of Finance conveyed the continuation of ongoing centrally sponsored scheme up-to 31.03.2021.

Physical Progress: Against the target of 34.63 Lakh Ha. Irrigation Potential of about 25.80 Lakh ha. has been created through AIBP works of the prioritized projects during 2016-17 to 2023-24. The potential created during 2024-25 shall be available only after the end of cropping season.

Project Completed under PMKSY-AIBP: AIBP works of 62 prioritized projects out of identified 99 projects (and 7 phases) were reported to be completed till date.

The Government of India has approved implementation of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) for 2021-26 with an outlay of ₹93,068 Crore on date 15-Dec-2021 to benefit about 22 Lakh farmers. The Union Cabinet has approved central support of ₹37,454 Crore to States and ₹20,434.56 Crore of debt servicing for loan availed by Government of India for irrigation development during PMKSY 2016-21. Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme, ‘Har Khet Ko Paani’ and Watershed Development components have been approved for continuation during 2021-26. Total additional irrigation potential creation targeted during 2021-26 under AIBP is 13.88 Lakh hectare. Apart from focused completion of 60 ongoing projects including their 30.23 lakh hectare command area development, 9 additional projects have been taken up till date. Also, two national projects, namely Renukaji Dam Project (Himachal Pradesh) and Lakhwar Multipurpose Project (Uttarakhand) have also been included for central funding of 90% of works of water component under the scheme.

Inclusion of new Major/Medium Irrigation (MMI) projects as well as funding of National Projects under AIBP.

Financial progress requirement is dropped for inclusion of a project underAIBPand only physical progress of 50% to be considered.

Advanced stage (50% physical progress) criteria are relaxed for projects having command area of 50% or more in Drought Prone Area Programme (DPAP), tribal, Desert Development Programme (DDP), Flood prone, Tribal area, Flood prone area, left wing extremism affected area, Koraput, Balangir and Kalahandi (KBK) region of Odisha, Vidarbha& Marathwada regions of Maharashtra and Bundelkhand region of Madhya Pradesh & Uttar Pradesh, as also for Extension Renovation Modernization (ERM) projects and also for States with net irrigation below national average.

Reimbursement is allowed for due central assistance in subsequent year also.

Project completion permitted with physical progress of 90% or more.

Online Management Information System (MIS) has been developed for monitoring of the projects. A nodal officer for each of the 99 priority projects has been identified who updates the physical and financial progress of the project regularly in the MIS.

GIS based Application has been developed for geo-tagging of project components. Remote Sensing Techniques have been used for digitization of the canal network of the projects. Further, the Cropped Area estimation in the command of 99 priority projects is being carried out annually through remote sensing.

To resolve the issue of Land Acquisition (LA) and increase water conveyance efficiency, use of Underground Pipeline (UGPL) has been actively promoted. Guidelines for Planning and Design ofPiped Irrigation Network were released by this Ministry in July, 2017.

Pari-passu implementation of Command area development works in the commands of these projects is envisaged to ensure that the Irrigation Potential Created could be utilized by the farmers. New Guidelines bringing focus on Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM) have been brought out. Further, transfer of control and management of irrigation system to the Water Users’ Association (WUA) has been made necessary condition for the acceptance of CADWM completion.

The Financial Progress under PMKSY-AIBP is as follows:

Funds Released	2016-17 to 2023-24	2024-25 (so far)	Total
Central Assistance for AIBP projects including special and National Projects	18550.98	629.22	19180.20
State Share	33830.83	180.60	34011.4
Total	52,381.81	809.82	53191.6

Special Package for Maharashtra: A Special Package approved on 18.07.2018 which provides Central Assistance to complete 83 Surface Minor Irrigation (SMI) projects and 8 Major / Medium Irrigation Projects in drought prone districts in Vidarbha and Marathwada and rest of Maharashtra in phases up to 2023-24 (extended till March-25). The overall balance cost of the said projects as on 1.4.2018 is estimated to be Rs.13651.61 Crore. Total CA is estimated to be Rs. 3831.41 Crore including reimbursement for expenditureduring 2017-18Balancepotentialof 3. 77 Lakh Ha would be created on completion of these schemes. CA of Rs. 2901.63 crores have been released under the scheme so far. Under the scheme, 53 SMI and 2 MMI projects have been reported to be completed by the State Government of Maharashtra. Overall irrigation potential of 1.66 Lakh ha. has been reported to be created through all these projects during 2018-19 to 2023-24. Further potential created during 2024-25 shall be available only after the end of cropping season.

Modernization of Command Area Development & Water Management (M-CADWM):

The Ministry of Jal Shakti is reviewing the CADWM programme to make it more relevant in the current context of water use efficiency and agricultural productivity. The proposed change is a proposed smart irrigation scheme which envisages transforming the existing command (whether rain fed or gravity based) to a Pressurized Piped Irrigation Command (PPIC) by providing pressurized irrigation water from Established source to Farm Gate below Minor (Tertiary) Level Network. This will make the entire command area micro-irrigation ready with robust back-end infrastructure using Surface Water. The farmers shall be empowered by creating a Water User Society, which will also be an “economic entity”.

The Scheme will develop suitable models for different Agro-Climatic zones, integrating various sources of water, and different levels of water availability, covering both areas of assured irrigation and protected irrigation. These models will pave the way for development of a National Plan for Modernization of water management in rural area in general and irrigation services in particular based on integrated, sustainable, efficient and inclusive water management.

Polavaram Irrigation Project: Polavaram Irrigation Project was declared as National Project under Section 90 of AP Reorganization Act, 2014, which came into force on 1^st March 2014. The project with 2467.50 m of earth-cum-rock fill dam and 1121.20 m long spillway aims at irrigating 2.91 Lakh ha in erstwhile East Godavari, Visakhapatnam, West Godavari and Krishna districts besides several other benefits envisaged by it. Central Government is funding 100% of the remaining cost of the irrigation component of the project, as on 01.04.2014. Government of Andhra Pradesh is executing the irrigation component of the project on behalf of Government of India. The approved cost of the Project as per Revised Cost Committee (RCC) is Rs 29,027.95 cr at 2013-14 PL and Rs 47,725.74 cr at 2017-18 PL up to FRL i.e. EL +45.72 m. After declaration as National Project, a sum of Rs. 15,605.96 cr has been released for execution of Polavaram Irrigation Project so far.

The Union Cabinet has approved the revised cost of the PIP in its meeting held on 28.08.2024, with water storage upto EL + 41.15 m at a cost of Rs. 30,436.95 cr with balance central grant for the project limited to Rs. 12,157.53 cr. Further, an amount of Rs. 2,348 cr has been released on 09.10.2024 as advance payment to GoAP on account of execution of Polavaram Irrigation Project in addition to the reimbursement of Rs 15,605.96 cr made to GoAP.

As reported by Water Resource Department, Government of Andhra Pradesh, an expenditure of Rs 18,348.84 cr has been incurred on the project works up to 30.11.2024, after declaration of Polavaram irrigation project (PIP) as National Project.

Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal)

Atal BhujalYojana (Atal Jal) is a Central Sector Scheme of Government of India with an outlay of Rs 6000 Crore, with focus on community participation and demand side interventions for sustainable ground water management in identified water stressed areas in 8203 water stressed Gram Panchayats of 229 administrative blocks/Talukas in 80 districts of seven States in the country viz. Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. The scheme, partly funded by the World Bank, is being implemented from 1.04.2020 for a period of 6 years.

This unique scheme aims at increasing the capacity of States to manage their ground water resources and for ensuring their long-term sustainability with active participation of the local communities through a mix of top-down and bottom-up approaches. It also envisages convergence of various ongoing schemes for implementation of interventions for improving ground water availability with emphasis on demand management and also to inculcate behavioral changes in the community to ensure optimal use of available water resources.

The launch of Atal Bhujal Yojana heralds a change in the Government policy for ground water management by emphasizing the importance of community participation in planning, execution, and monitoring of scheme activities; convergence of ongoing schemes for implementing interventions aimed at improving ground water availability; focus on demand side management through improving water use efficiency and incentivizing participating States for awareness creation among the masses on the importance of ground water.

Atal Bhujal Yojana also envisages improving the capacity of States for ground water governance through strengthening of institutions dealing with ground water management, improving ground water monitoring networks, creation of awareness among the public on the importance and criticality of ground water resources and building the capacity of the grass root level stakeholders to plan and utilize the available resources in a judicious manner. It also addresses the gender perspective by making it mandatory to include women in all activities of the scheme.

Atal Bhujal Yojana is expected to improve ground water conditions in the target areas and to contribute significantly to ensure ground water sustainability for interventions planned under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). It is also expected to contribute to the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s goal of doubling farmers’ income and to result in optimal use of ground water by the stakeholders in the long-run.

Further, to bridge the gap in the data availability at the GP level for better water management across India, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation in collaboration with Ministry of Panchayati Raj has taken the initiative to expand water budgeting exercise to non-Atal Jal areas as well by their inclusion in the Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs).

Key achievements under Atal Bhujal Yojana are as follows:

Public disclosure of data in all the Atal Jal GPs through various modes of disclosure viz., central/state web portals, display board at each GP, social media, wall paintings, distribution of pamphlets/brochure, public meetings and Atal Jal Mobile application.
States have used innovative measures like Groundwater Data Information Dissemination Centers, QR codes, social media, etc., to disseminate the groundwater related data to public.
Community led Water Budget and WSPs prepared for all the 8203 GPs and updated on yearly basis.
Groundwater monitoring system has been strengthened at GP level by providing equipment like Digital Water Level Recorders, water level indicators, rain gauges, water quality testing kits, water flow meters etc. In addition, piezometers have been constructed in GPs for monitoring of water levels.
A total of 49 State level, 410 District level, 1152 Block level and 99,406 GP level trainings have been conducted so far.
Awareness and sensitization at GP level through innovative Information Education and Communication practices like narrowcasting in Haryana, folk dances/songs in Karnataka, Jal dindis in Maharashtra, Ratri Choupals in Rajasthan have been used to drive the message of sustainable groundwater management.
Investment of Rs. 4355 Crore towards implementation of interventions proposed under WSPs through convergence.
An area of around 6.7 lakh Hectares has been brought under efficient water use practices including Drip, Sprinkler, Mulching, Crop Diversification etc.
More than 70,000 wells are being monitored for water level at GP level and shared with community.
More than 90,000 existing Water Conservation and Artificial Recharge structures have been mapped.
813 GPs in 47 Blocks have shown improvement in ground water level.
A total of Rs.3420.57 Cr. has been disbursed to the States since the inception of the scheme. A total of Rs.2863.98 Cr. has been utilized by the States since the inception of the scheme.
Sixth meeting of National Level Steering Committee (NLSC) for implementation of Atal Bhujal Yojana was held on 07 June 2024.

Minor Irrigation Statistics: Progress under the scheme “Irrigation Census”:

Minor Irrigation Census conducted quinquennially in order to create a sound and reliable database on groundwater and surface water minor irrigation schemes in the country. The Minor Irrigation Census is conducted under the centrally sponsored scheme “Irrigation Census” with 100% central funding through which State Statistical Cells constituted under different States/UTs are also supported.

The sixth Minor Irrigation Census and the first Census of Water bodies covering all water bodies in the country, both rural and urban have been completed. All India and State-wise report on 6^th Minor Irrigation Census and First Census of Water Bodies has been published and are available at the Department website ‘https://jalshakti-dowr.gov.in’. Key results have been disseminated on Bhuvan portal and the state wise unit level data has also been disseminated on Open Government Data (OGD) platform.

During 2024, the following progress under the scheme “Irrigation Census” has been achieved:

7^th Minor Irrigation Census and 2^nd Census of Water Bodies are underway, along with two new censuses: the 1^st Census of Springs and the 1^st Census of Major and Medium Irrigation Projects, with reference year 2023-24.
An all-India Workshop on these Censuses was held in 2023, with participation from all States and Union Territories. NIC has developed a mobile/web application for these censuses, with pilot testing successfully conducted in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Meghalaya in month of October, 2024.
Six regional workshops for training of trainers for upcoming censuses are being conducted at regional centers in Tripura, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and West Bengal from December, 2024 to January, 2025 to provide training to trainers at State level for further capacity building.
Grands-in-aid to States/UTs were released timely on receipt of proposals from eligible States/UTs.

Flood Management Wing (FM):

Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP):

The “Flood Management Programme (FMP)” and “River Management Activities and Works related to Border Areas” (RMBA) under operation during XII Five Year Plan were merged as “Flood Management and Border Areas Programme” (FMBAP) for the period 2017-18 to 2019-20 and further extended up-to March, 2021. Cabinet further approved the continuation of FMBAP scheme during 2021-22 to 2025-26 with an outlay of Rs. 4100 Crore (FMP-Rs. 2940 Crore and RMBA – Rs. 1160 Crore).

Since the inception of FMBAP (till December 2024), Central Assistance of Rs. 7136 crores have been released to States/UTs under FMP component of Flood Management & Border Area Programme (FMBAP) scheme and Central Assistance of Rs. 1258.73 crores have been released to UTs/States under RMBA component of FMBAP scheme.

Completion of balance works of North Koel Reservoir Project: DoWR, RD & GR has taken up the long pending project for completion of balance works of North Koel Reservoir Project, Bihar and Jharkhand. In August, 2017 the Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for balance works of North Koel Reservoir Project at an estimated cost of Rs. 1622.27 crore during three financial years from the start of the project. Subsequently, at the request of both State Governments, certain other components were found necessary to be included in the project. Complete lining of Right Main Canal (RMC) and Left Main Canal (LMC) was also regarded essential from technical considerations to derive envisaged irrigation potential. Thus, the works of Gaya distribution system, lining of RMC and LMC, remodeling of enroute structures, construction of a few new structures and onetime Special Package for R&R of Project Affected Families (PAFs) were to be provided for in the updated cost estimate. Accordingly, Revised Cost Estimate of the project was prepared. Out of the cost of balance works of Rs. 2430.76 crore, the Central would provide Rs.1836.41 crore. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval to the proposal to complete the balance works of North Koel Reservoir Project at a revised Cost of Rs. 2,430.76 crore on 04.10.2023. Project will provide irrigation benefit to 114,021 hectares of land annually in drought prone areas of Aurangabad and Gaya districts of Bihar and Palamau and Garwa districts of Jharkhand. Project also has the provision for supply of 44 MCM water for drinking and industrial water supply. The execution of balance works of the project on turnkey basis by M/s WAPCOS Ltd., a CPSU under DoWR, RD & GR as Project Management Consultant (PMC). 10% works on dam & appurtenant, 100% of additional works of Mohammad Ganjbarrage, 86% works on left main canal and works on Right Main Canal in Jharkhand Portion & 18% works on Bihar portion have been completed.

India and Bangladesh Matters

A Treaty was signed by the Prime Ministers of India and Bangladesh on 12th December, 1996 for the sharing of Ganga/Ganges waters at Farakka during the lean season. As per the Treaty, the Ganga/Ganges waters is being shared at Farakka (which is the last control structure on river Ganga in India) during lean period, from 1^st January to 31^st May every year, on 10-daily basis as per the formula provided in the Treaty. The validity of Treaty is 30 years. The sharing of water as per the Treaty is being monitored by a Joint Committee headed by Members, JRC from both sides. The following India-Bangladesh Joint Committee Meetings have been convened.

The 83^rd meeting of the Joint Committee on sharing of the Ganga/Ganges waters at Farakka was held at Dhaka on 24^th January, 2024 after a visit to the joint observation site at Hardinge Bridge, on 24th January, 2024.
The 84^th meeting of the Joint Committee on sharing of the Ganga/Ganges Waters at Farakka was held at Kolkata on 7^th March, 2024 after visit to the joint observation sites at Farakka on 5^th March, 2024.
The 85^th meeting of the Joint Committee on sharing of the Ganga/ Ganges waters at Farakka was held at Dhaka (Bangladesh) on 14^th November, 2024 for the finalization of Annual Report of the lean/dry season of the year 2024.

During the 83^rd and 84^th Joint Committee meetings, the Indian delegation was led by Mr. Atul Jain, Commissioner (FM), Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Ministry of Jal Shakti. During the 85th Joint Committee meeting, the Indian delegation was led by Mr. Sharad Chandra, Commissioner (FM), Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of the Republic of India and Member, India-Bangladesh Joint Rivers Commission. The Bangladesh delegation was led by Dr. Mohammad Abul Hossen, Member, India-Bangladesh Joint Rivers Commission, Ministry of Water Resources, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD)

Cleaning of river is a continuous process and Government of India is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the challenges of pollution of rivers by providing financial and technical assistance. Assistance is provided to State Governments for abatement of pollution in identified stretches of various rivers (excluding river Ganga and its tributaries) under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) on cost sharing basis between the Central & State Governments for taking up various pollution abatement works relating to interception & diversion of raw sewage, construction of sewerage systems, setting up of sewage treatment plants, low cost sanitation, river front/bathing ghat development, etc.

Project for ‘Pollution Abetment River Banganga at Katra’ in Jammu & Kashmir at a cost of Rs.92.10 crore was sanctioned.
Project for ‘Pollution Abetment and Conservation of river Mindhola at Surat’ in Gujarat at a cost of Rs.98.51 crore was sanctioned.
Project for ‘Interception & Diversion of Sewerage Water from Existing Drains to Nearest STP for Treatment Purposes in Jodhpur City for Pollution Abatement of River Jojari at Jodhpur’ in Rajasthan at a cost of Rs.13.10 crore was sanctioned.
Project for ‘Sewer rehabilitation of old and deteriorated pipes by Trenchless CIPP Technology for main trunk sewer lines heading towards Nandari and Salawas STPs for pollution abatement of Jojari River at Jodhpur’ in Rajasthan at a cost of Rs.51.99 crore was sanctioned.
Project for ‘Design of Complete Sewerage System and Proposal of Development of New STP for Jhalamand Area, Jodhpur for pollution abatement of river Jojari at Jodhpur’ in Rajasthan at a cost of Rs.53.63 crore was sanctioned.
Project for ‘Establishing and Commissioning of 30 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at Nandari for pollution abatement of river Jojari at Jodhpur’ in Rajasthan at a cost of Rs.53.86 crore was sanctioned.
Project for ‘Rejuvenation of Imphal-Manipur River and Faecal Sludge and Septage Management at 27 ULBs’ in Manipur at a cost of Rs.92.39 crore was sanctioned.
Project for ‘Elamkulam sewerage project for rejuvenating Chitrapuzha River through restoration of natural streams/outfalls carrying sewage/pollutants-Construction of STP 17.5 MLD’ in Kerala at a cost of Rs.47.53 crore was sanctioned.
Project for ‘Perandoor Sewerage Project for Rejuvenating Periyar River through Restoration of Natural Streams/Outfalls Carrying Sewage/Pollutants—Construction of 19 MLD STP (Part 1)’ in Kerala at a cost of Rs.49.78 crore was sanctioned.
Project Management Consultant has been appointed for implementation the project of ‘Pollution abatement and conservation of River Nag at Nagpur, Maharashtra’ sanctioned at a cost of Rs.1,926.99 crore with Japan International Cooperation Assistance.
Project for pollution abatement of river Devika and Tawi at Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir sanctioned for Rs.186.74 crore has been completed 3 sewage treatment plants (STPs) with total capacity of 13.06 mld constructed under NRCP.
Project for pollution abatement of river Tapi at Surat, Gujarat sanctioned for Rs. 971.25 crore has been completed 11 sewage treatment plants (STPs) with total capacity of 208.97 mld constructed under NRCP.
Central Assistance amounting to Rs. 425 crores released to various State Governments/Agencies for implementation of projects under NRCP.
Stakeholder Consultation Workshop on Guidelines for National River Conservation Plan and DPR Preparation held on 06th May, 2024 in the presence of Secretary, DoWR, RD & GR. The recommendation and suggestions of the stakeholders are under review and accordingly will be proposed in the revised guidelines of NRCP and DPR guidelines.
First meeting of the Stakeholder Advisory Committee (SAC) was held on 31.05.2024 under the Chairpersonship of Secretary, DoWR, RD & GR at Nagpur under the project Condition Assessment and Management Plan of Six River Basins (Cauvery, Periyar, Narmada, Mahanadi, Godavari and Krishna).
The project “Assessment of ecological status of 7 rivers viz. Narmada, Mahanadi, Godavari, Cauvery, Periyar, Pamba and Barak for conservation planning” has been entrusted to Wild Life Institute of India (WII) at a sanctioned cost of Rs. 24.56 crore in September, 2020. The project broadly aims to spearhead river conservation in above seven Indian rivers for biodiversity conservation and maintenance of ecosystem services. Intensive ecological studies will be carried out in the seven prioritized river basins of India and ecological status will be assessed. Stake Holders workshops of NRCD- WII held at Bengaluru, Karnataka Cauvery River basin.

External Affairs & International Cooperation (EA&IC)

DoWR, RD & GR has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with different countries on cooperation in the field of water resources management and development. For effective implementation of activities under the various signed MoUs, to enhance the collaboration under the MoU, certain activities were undertaken including Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting, the details of which is as follows –

MoU with Denmark – The MoU between India and Denmark on Cooperation in the field of Water Resources Management was signed on 12.09.2022. Two projects namely “Centre of excellence on Smart Water Resources Management (CoESWaRM)” and “Smart Laboratories on Clean River (SLCR)” have been identified under the MoU. Indian side Joint Working Group was formed on 05.08.2024. First Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting under the MoU was held on 05^th December 2024. In the meeting, it has been agreed to have organizational division at PMU level into two sub-thematic areas under the existing Centre of Excellence (CoE).

MoU with European Union – The MoU between India and the European Union on Water Cooperation was signed on 01.10.2016. Three JWG meetings have been convened so far. Third Meeting of JWG was convened on 12.07.2023 virtually. The 6th EU-India Water Forum meeting was held on 18.09.2024 during the 8th India Water Week in New Delhi. The forum inter-alia explored trilateral collaboration between East Africa, India and the EU to address water challenges in regions like Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika.

MoU with Israel: The MoU between India and Israel on Water Resources Management and Development Cooperation was signed on 11.11.2016. A Joint Review Committee (JRC) (Now Steering Committee) has been formed on 20.02.2024 to assess the activities and progress of the projects identified for implementation under the MoU. 1^st meeting of the JRC was convened on 9th Oct 2024 recommending the proposal for the “Establishment of India-Israel Centre of Water Technology (CoWT)”.

MoC with Japan (Water Resources): The Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between India and Japan in the area of Water Resources was signed on 11.12.2019. Two meetings of Joint Working Group (JWG) have been convened so far. 2nd JWG meeting was held on 14.11.2024. In the meeting both sides agreed for extension of the MoU and to identifying additional areas for collaboration.

MoU with Morocco- The MoU between India and Morocco on cooperation in the field of Water Resources was signed on 14.12.2017. Four JWG meetings have been convened so far. Fourth JWG meeting was convened on 20.09.2024. It was agreed upon that both the countries will share their experiences, analysis, findings, policies and developments in the field of water resources in its next meeting of JWG.

Bilateral Meetings of Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti with the Ministers of Foreign Nations during India Water Week 2024 in New Delhi: –

Denmark: Mr. C.R. Paatil, Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti met with H.E. Mr. Morten Bødskov, Denmark’s Minister of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs. Denmark’s Minister reaffirmed Denmark’s commitment to sustainable water solutions and highlighted the expertise of Danish companies in water management. The Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti proposed collaborative initiatives to develop scalable technologies for water challenges, suggesting pilot projects at the district level.
Guyana: A significant meeting took place between Mr. C. R. Paatil, Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti and Mr. Collin D. Croal, Hon’ble Minister of Housing & Water, Guyana. It was agreed upon that both the countries will share their experiences, policies and developments in the field of water resources
Tanzania: Mr. C. R. Paatil, Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti, India met with Mr. Mathew Andrea Kundo, Deputy Minister of Water, Tanzania. The Tanzanian Minister proposed discussions on a new project to transport water from Lake Victoria, estimated at $600 million, to address water challenges in Tanzania. Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti assured that this proposal would be deliberated upon in the Ministry positively.
Zimbabwe: A productive meeting took place between Mr. C. R. Paatil, Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti and Mr. Vangelis Peter Haritatos, Hon’ble Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe’s Minister sought innovative financing options beyond traditional avenues such as EXIM etc. Hon’ble Minister for Jal Shakti assured that these matters would be deliberated upon positively, emphasizing that improvements in Zimbabwe’s irrigation sector would significantly enhance food security across Africa.

Barhmaputra & Barak (B&B) Wing

Expert Level Mechanism (ELM)

During the visit of the Hon’ble President of the People’s Republic of China to India on November 20-23, 2006, it was agreed to set up an Expert-Level Mechanism to discuss interaction and cooperation on provision of flood season hydrological data, emergency management and other issues regarding trans-border Rivers as agreed between them. Accordingly, the two sides have set up the Joint Expert Level Mechanism through a Joint Declaration by both the countries.

The ELM meetings are held alternately in India and China every year. Fifteen meetings of ELM have been held so far. The 15^th meeting of ELM was held at Beijing, China during 13^th-14^th August 2024. The GoI delegation was led by Shri S.K. Sinha, Commissioner (B&B), DoWR, RD & GR, Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Chinese delegation was led by Mr. Hao Zhao, Director General of the International Economic & Technical Cooperation and Exchange Centre, Ministry of Water Resources, People’s Republic of China. Representatives of Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and Central Water Commission (CWC) had also participated in the meeting.

(ii) INDIA-BHUTAN COOPERATION

Joint Group of Expert (JGE) on Flood Management:

A Joint Group of Expert (JGE) on Flood Management has been constituted between India and Bhutan to discuss and assess the probable causes and effects of the recurring floods and erosion in the southern foothills of Bhutan and adjoining plains in India and recommend to both Governments appropriate and mutually acceptable remedial measures. Ten meetings of JGE have been held so far. The 10^th meeting was held during 28^th-29^th February, 2024 at New Delhi, India. The GoI delegation was led by Shri S. K. Sinha, Commissioner (B&B), Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD& GR), Ministry of Jal Shakti, GoI and the RGoB delegation was led by Mr. Karma Dupchu, Director, National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM), RGoB.

Joint Technical Team (JTT) on Flood Management:

In accordance with the decision taken during the first meeting of JGE, a Joint Technical Team (JTT) on Flood Management between the two countries was constituted. The purpose of JTT is to assess the field situation and provide technical support to JGE on flood management. Eight meetings of JTT have been held so far. The 8^th meeting of JTT was held during 18^th–20^th November, 2024 at Chalsa, Jalpaigudi, West Bengal. The Indian delegation was led by Shri G.L. Bansal, Chief Engineer, Brahmaputra Basin Organisation (BBO), Central Water Commission, GoI and the Bhutanese delegation was led by Dr. SingayDorji, Chief of Meteorological Services Division (MSD), National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology, RGoB.

Joint Experts Team (JET) on Flood Forecasting:

A Joint Experts Team (JET) consisting of senior officials from the Government of India and Royal Government of Bhutan(RGoB) continuously reviews the progress and other requirements of a network of 36 hydro-meteorological sites located in the catchments of trans-border rivers Puthimari, Pagladiya, Sankosh, Manas, Raidak, Torsa, Aie and Jaldhaka. So far, JET has met 38 times alternately in India and Bhutan since its reconstitution in 1992 and the last JET meeting i.e. 38^th meeting was held at Mandarmani, West Bengal, India during 10^th-11^th December, 2024.

The Indian delegation was led by Shri Subhrangshu Biswas, Chief Engineer, Teesta&Bagarathi-Damodar Basin Organisation (T&BDBO), Central Water Commission, GoI and the Bhutanese delegation was led by Mr. Karma Dupchu, Director, National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM), RGoB.

13. NERIWALM

The North Eastern Regional Institute of Water and Land Management (NERIWALM), under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, continued its vital contributions to water and land management across North East India in 2024. As the only institute of its kind in the region, it upheld its mandate of capacity building and skill enhancementfor efficient management of water and land resources for irrigation and agriculture.

During the year (January to December, 2024), the institute organized 76 training programmes, reaching 3,173 beneficiaries. Among these were induction-level courses for newly recruited engineers from the Irrigation and Agriculture Departments of Assam, as well as the Brahmaputra Board. A faculty development program on advancements in agriculture and water management was also conducted. NERIWALM collaborated with leading national institutions and agencies to host a two-day National Seminar on Advances in Irrigation Technologies and Management, fostering knowledge exchange and innovation.

In research and development, the institute undertook a diverse range of projects sponsored by state and central government departments. Key initiatives included the preparation of State-Specific Action Plans for 19 states, evaluations of PMKSY-AIBP and PMKSY-HKKP irrigation projects in Assam and Meghalaya, research project on farmer participation in irrigation management in Manipur, studies on good water management practices and study on the impact of climate change on dam-related hydro-geomorphic and social aspects in Arunachal Pradesh.

NERIWALM’s academic program also progressed with the enrollment of 15 students in the M.Tech course on Water Resource Management for the 2024-25 session. The institute further strengthened its credentials by developing e-learning modules on water resource management for the i-GOT platform. NERIWALM was accredited as “EXCELLENT” under the Capacity Building Commission’s National Standards, while its Soil and Water Laboratory achieved NABL accreditation.

14. NATIONAL HYDROLOGY PROJECT

National Hydrology Project (NHP), with support from the World Bank, envisages establishing a system for timely and reliable water resources data acquisition, storage, collation and management. It has pan-India coverage with 48 Implementing Agencies (IAs) {12 from Central Government (including 3 from River Basin Organisations) and 36 from States/ UTs}. It will also provide tools and systems for informed decision making for water resources assessment, planning and management. The National Hydrology Project has been approved with an outlay of Rs. 3,679.77 Crore as a Central Sector Scheme with 100% grant to State Governments and Central Implementing Agencies. The project originally had a duration of 8 years from 2016-17 to 2023-24. However, Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance has accorded approval for extension of project till Sept-2025 within the same allocation.

Broad objectives of NHP include: a) To improve the extent, quality, and accessibility of water resources information; b) To create decision support system for floods and basin level resource assessment/planning; and c) To strengthen the capacity of targeted water resources professionals and institutions in India.

Under the ongoing NHP, almost 22960 Real Time Data Acquisition System (RTDAS) surface water and ground water stations have already been installed in the country. Besides, 46 Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) packages have been commissioned; almost 5667 piezometers constructed; 134 stationary as well as mobile water quality labs have been developed/procured/maintained and put into operation;
high-resolution DEMs, CORS network as well as Geoid model have also been developed. Furthermore, Bathymetric surveys of 464 important reservoirs of the country covering 162 BCM have also been taken up under NHP of which 373 studies have already been completed. Further 36 State Data Centres / Regional data centres / knowledge centres, etc. have been completed under the ongoing NHP. The need for development & maintenance of appropriate institutional framework both at the Central as well as State level for water resources information system intended for collection, collation and dissemination of the database was given shape in the ongoing NHP. As envisaged in the Cabinet note, the National Water Resources Informatics Centre (NWIC) has been created in 2018 and is now functional. Additionally, the formation of the State Water Informatics Centres for development of respective State Water Resources Information Systems was expedited in the ongoing NHP. Till date almost 19 SWICs have already been formed with a few more under process. The information system covering hydro-meteorological, hydro-geological, sedimentation, morphological and water quality data is also important in the context of various studies being done under NHP which
include IT Applications, Digital Products, geospatial hydro products, etc.

15. Surface Minor Irrigation (SMI) scheme

Under the Surface Minor Irrigation (SMI) scheme, since 12th plan onwards, 7282 schemes are ongoing with an estimated cost of ₹ 16113.560 crores. Central Assistance (CA) of Rs. 9009.169 crores have been released to states up-to March, 2024. Further, 4965 schemes have been reported to be completed up-to March, 2024. Target irrigation potential creation of these schemes is 11.58 L Ha and out of this, 8.59 L Ha is reported to be created till March, 2024.

16. Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) of Water Bodies scheme

Under the Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) of Water Bodies scheme, since 12th plan onwards, 3075schemes are ongoing with an estimated cost of Rs. 2834.692 crore. Central Assistance (CA) of Rs. 554.279Crore has been released to states up to March, 2024. Further, 2192 water bodies have been reported to be completed up to March, 2024. Target irrigation potential restoration of these schemes is 2.41 L Ha and out of this, 2.00 L Ha is reported to be restored till March, 2024

18. Mass Communication Internship programme

DoWR, RD & GR undertook internship programme in mass communication on during 2024. Students pursuing Degrees or are Research Scholars enrolled in recognized University/Institution in the field of Mass Communication in India are given opportunity to apply as “interns”. The Internship Programme provided short term exposure to “selected candidates” to be associated with the Department’s work related to media/social media activities. The objectives of the programme are to well acquaint the “Interns” with the working of the Department in field of media/social media related activities etc. and simultaneously the “interns” to supplement the process of mass publicity of this Department to create awareness about importance of development and management of water resources in holistic manner.

03 interns were selected for an initial period of 6 months under the program.

*****

Dhanya Sanal K

Director

(Release ID: 2096022) Visitor Counter : 29

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 26, 2025

MIL-OSI China: China sees progress in green transition, climate response

Source: China State Council Information Office 2

China has scored remarkable achievements in green and low-carbon development in recent years, accelerating its green transition on multiple fronts while actively contributing to global actions against climate change.
Green transition
Wen Hua, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission, said that China’s progress in green development was manifested in several aspects, citing the policy framework for carbon peaking and neutrality, an optimized industrial structure, and higher resource utilization efficiency, among others.
China has established a “1+N” policy framework for carbon peaking and neutrality, which includes two overarching documents as top-level design, 12 implementation plans targeting specific sectors and industries, and supporting plans covering sectors such as science, technology and finance, Wen said.
The industrial structure has also been upgraded. While improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions from existing projects, China has set strict energy and environmental standards for new projects.
In particular, Wen underscored the positive impacts of the large-scale equipment upgrades and trade-ins of consumer goods programs implemented since the start of the year.
The scheme serves not only as a robust measure to boost investment and consumption, but also a crucial climate policy. By promoting the application of advanced and energy-saving products and equipment, the program has helped reduce energy and carbon intensities across society, Wen said.
Dong Wancheng, an official with the National Energy Administration, highlighted the country’s intensified efforts in energy transition. Dong said that China has boosted the development of clean energy, with the share of clean energy in total energy use increasing 10.9 percentage points over the past decade.
Global contribution
While speeding up its transition towards green and low-carbon growth, China has also played an active role in global climate change mitigation.
China’s energy transition is making an increasing contribution to the world, said Dong, adding that the country has been sharing high-quality clean energy products with other countries, contributing to the world’s energy transition and carbon reduction.
For instance, China’s wind power and photovoltaic product exports helped other countries reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 810 million tonnes in 2023, according to the white paper issued by China’s State Council Information Office in August this year.
Xia Yingxian, an official with the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, said that China has placed great importance on tackling climate change and has made new strides in this regard.
According to Xia, China’s carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP have logged a sustained decline, and its carbon market mechanism has been further strengthened. He emphasized that the country will steadily expand its national carbon trading market and strive to ensure its healthy and stable operation.
Noting that the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is approaching, Xia said that China will continue to play a positive and constructive role in negotiations.
Azerbaijan has been selected as the Presidency of the COP29, to be hosted in Baku this November.
Xia said that China will work with all other parties to support Azerbaijan’s Presidency in achieving positive outcomes from the COP29.

MIL OSI China News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New Measures To Deter High Bids For Hawker Stalls

Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

Singapore, 4 November 2024 – Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment, Dr Koh Poh Koon, announced at the Singapore Hawkers’ Seminar and Awards 2024 today that the National Environment Agency (NEA) will be revising the rental renewal policy for successful tenderers from the November 2024 hawker stall tender exercise onwards.

2          To deter overly high tender bids, NEA will be staggering the downward adjustment of tendered stall rentals over a longer period. Instead of an immediate full downward adjustment to the assessed market rent (AMR) at the point of first tenancy renewal, the rental for such hawker stalls will be adjusted downwards by 50% of the difference between their tendered rent and AMR for the second tenancy term. This will take effect from the next stall tender exercise in November 2024. This new measure seeks to encourage more prudent bidding behaviour.

3          To help prospective bidders make more informed tender bid price decisions, NEA will also provide more information and online business cost estimation tools to help prospective bidders make better cost and revenue estimates. These will be made available progressively from 2025.

Current Stall Tender Scheme and rental model

4          Vacant cooked food and market stalls are put up for tender monthly under NEA’s Stall Tender Scheme [1]. This open tender system ensures stalls are allocated in a fair and transparent manner. When stallholders obtain vacant stalls via the monthly stall tender exercises, their stall rental for the first tenancy term of three years is their tendered bid price. At the end of the 3-year tenancy term, stall rental is adjusted towards AMR, as determined by an independent professional valuation. The valuation considers factors such as footfall, stall sizes and tendered stall rentals at the hawker centre.

5          Currently, stallholders whose tendered rent is higher than the AMR at the point of tenancy renewal will see a full downward adjustment of their stall rental to the prevailing AMR. Stallholders whose tendered rent is lower than the AMR at the point of tenancy renewal will similarly see an upward adjustment of stall rental toward the AMR. This upward adjustment of stall rental towards AMR is moderated by NEA and has not exceeded $300 per tenancy term in recent years.

6          Popular hawker centres with high footfall and low vacancy have started to attract higher tender bids in recent years. Some bidders may have tendered high bids to secure choice stalls at their preferred locations. However, this is not the norm.

7          The median stall rental for non-subsidised cooked food stalls has remained relatively constant for the last 10 years at about $1,250 per month. Occupancy rates for cooked food stalls have remained high, averaging at around 97%. Most of the vacant stalls that are put up for tender will be occupied within three to six months.

8          While NEA does not regulate cooked food prices, we remain committed to provide a conducive environment for stallholders to operate, so that they can price their food affordably for the public and sustain their own livelihoods. Together with the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, we will continue to track stall rentals closely and adjust policies as necessary.

[1] Please refer to the ANNEX for an illustrated example of the Stall Tender Scheme.

~~ End ~~

For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.

ANNEX

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: St Austell angler fined for not having a rod licence
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

It would have been cheaper for an angler to have bought a rod licence after he was caught and fined.
Money raised from the sale of rod licences supports the sport, fish stock and pays for improvements

William Greaves, 39, from Moorland Road, St Austell, pleaded guilty to fishing without a rod licence at Bilberry Lake, St Austell. He was fined £40 and ordered to pay a £16 victim surcharge at Swindon Magistrates Court on 29 October 2024.

Benjamin Pessl, Environment Agency fisheries enforcement officer, said:

Money from rod licence sales is put back where it came from to improve the experience of anglers and fisheries. Not doing that cheats everyone.

Buying a rod licence is not expensive. Always check your licence is in date before you go out fishing

Any angler aged 13 or over, fishing on a river, canal or still water needs a licence. A 1-day licence costs from just £6 and an annual licence costs from just £30 (concessions available). Junior licences are free for 13 – 16-year-olds. Licences are available from www.gov.uk/get-a-fishing-licence or by calling the Environment Agency on 0344 800 5386 between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

The Environment Agency carries out enforcement work all year round and is supported by partners including the police and the Angling Trust. Fisheries enforcement work is intelligence-led, targeting known hot-spots and where illegal fishing is reported.

Anyone with information about illegal fishing activities can contact the Environment Agency incident hotline 24/7 on 0800 80 70 60 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Background

William Greaves was charged with:

On 21 April 2024 at Bilberry Lake, St Austell, in a place where fishing is regulated fished for freshwater fish or eels by means of an unlicensed fishing instrument, namely rod and line, contrary to Section 27(1)(a) of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975.

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Published 4 November 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study suggesting association between many pesticides and prostate cancer

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

November 4, 2024

A study published in Wiley Cancer looks at an association between pesticides and prostate cancer incidence.

Prof Paul Pharoah, Professor of Cancer Epidemiology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, said:

“The epidemiological design used to evaluate the association between pesticides and prostate cancer incidence and mortality in this study is called an ecological study. In an ecological study the unit of analysis is the population in a given area, and so the correlation studied is that between pesticide levels in a given area and prostate cancer rates in the same area. It is important to note that pesticide exposures and prostate cancer occurrence in individuals was not studied.

“Ecological studies are very prone to bias and can give rise to the ecological fallacy – the assumption that group level correlation also applies to individuals. Ecological studies are generally regarded as hypothesis generating rather than hypothesis testing. The well-known mantra that correlation does not mean causation is particularly applicable to ecological studies.

“While several associations were identified, no data to suggest that these associations are causal is presented. It is notable that of the four pesticides associated with both incidence rates and mortality rates of prostate cancer three are considered by the Environmental Protection Agency of the USA as not likely to be carcinogenic or have evidence of non-carcinogenicity.”

‘Pesticides and prostate cancer incidence and mortality: An environment‐wide association study’ by Simon John Christoph Soerensen et al. was published in Wiley Cancer at 08:01 UK Time Monday 4 November 2024.

DOI: 10.1002/cncr.35572

Declared interests

Prof Paul Pharoah: I have previously provided expert testimony in for the defence in glyphosate and lymphoma litigation

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New team of wardens to enhance environmental protection

Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

From Monday 11 November, a new team of litter wardens will be on patrol across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon (ABC) Borough.

ABC Council has partnered with District Enforcement Limited, to enhance and enforce its zero tolerance approach to littering, fly-tipping and dog fouling.

The four new District Enforcement Officers will supplement the work of Council’s four Environmental Wardens in carrying out patrols across the Borough, giving advice and issuing Fixed Penalty Notices to offenders.

Already this year, the council has been involved in around a dozen Fixed Penalty Notices handed to those responsible for fly-tipping.

People who are found responsible for fly-tipping will face a Fixed Penalty Notice of £400, while those who fail to pick up after their dog face a fixed penalty fine of £120 and similarly those who drop litter will be fined £120.

Those who do not pay the Fixed Penalty Notice will be subject to court action and there are no early payment reductions.

The new District Enforcement Officers will proactively patrol all areas of the borough, including city/town centres, villages, parks and open spaces. They will also respond to concerns over areas which are particularly adversely affected by dumping, litter or dog fouling.

While the Council recognises that the vast majority of residents respect and look after their areas, they remain committed to pursuing those who continue to cause harm to the environment, local wildlife and the climate through littering offences.

Members of the public can also help in the fight against litter, fly-tipping and dog fouling, by reporting incidents via the ABC Council App which is available to download on the App store and Google Play store, or by calling the Council’s Environmental Health team directly on 0300 0300 900.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 26, 2025

Category: Environment

Backgrounder

Context

Strengthening emission performance and carbon management technologies in Canada’s oil and gas sector

Extensive consultation to date on the oil and gas GHG pollution cap

Key components of the proposed national cap-and-trade system for oil and gas greenhouse gas pollution

Economic impacts of the proposed Regulations

Provincial leadership

Note on third party reports

Union Minister Shri C.R. Patil Highlights Prime Minister’s Commitment to Ganga Conservation while inaugurating Ganga Utsav 2024 at HaridwarMinister of State Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary underscores Ganga Utsav’s role in promoting conservation and reverence for Maa Ganga

Source: Northland Regional Council

Background information

Te Henga Walkway

2023 North Island weather events including Cyclone Gabrielle

Te Kawerau ā Maki

Contact

‘Tis the season for flowering pests

Broom

Nassella tussock

Keeping effluent out of waterways

Pinkawillinie fire

(xxii) LIST OF IMPORTANT PUBLICATIONS OF CWC during 2024

Expert Level Mechanism (ELM)

Background

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Updates to this page

November 4, 2024

Union Minister Shri C.R. Patil Highlights Prime Minister’s Commitment to Ganga Conservation while inaugurating Ganga Utsav 2024 at Haridwar

Minister of State Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary underscores Ganga Utsav’s role in promoting conservation and reverence for Maa Ganga