NewzIntel.com

Category: Farming

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Urban deer removal complete in Cranbrook, Kimberley

    The Province, with the support of the ʔaq’am First Nation and the cities of Cranbrook and Kimberley, has completed the removal and testing of urban deer to curb the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD).

    The operation took place Feb. 18-28, during which time 100 deer were removed from Cranbrook and 26 from Kimberley. All deer removed in this project were tested for CWD at a Ministry of Agriculture laboratory in Abbotsford. One white-tailed adult female from Cranbrook tested positive for CWD by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. All other deer tested negative.

    CWD is a fatal infection that affects species in the deer family (cervids), such as mule deer, white-tailed deer, elk, moose and caribou. The disease spreads through grooming, body fluids, and shared spaces. While highly contagious among cervids, there have been no reported cases of CWD spreading to humans or pets. It is inadvisable for people or pets to consume meat from an infected animal.

    The risk of spread is higher in urban deer because of population density. Urban deer populations in Cranbrook and Kimberley are of special concern because of their proximity to five CWD cases detected in the Kootenay region in the last year.

    Targeted removal was undertaken by trained professionals following strict protocols to ensure public safety and minimize stress on the animals.

    Future management decisions will continue to be made in consultation with First Nations and local municipalities. An urban deer collaring program has been initiated to better understand the movement and ranges of these animals to inform risk assessment and an appropriate response. Other actions may include additional removals and testing of urban deer in Cranbrook and Kimberley.

    Provincial wildlife staff thank all the volunteers and partners who assisted with this project.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from the Honourable Kody Blois, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Rural Economic Development

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Cutting red tape to ensure the resiliency and competitive advantage of Canada’s agricultural sector

    March 18, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Canadian Food Inspection Agency

    As Canada’s new Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Rural Economic Development, ensuring the resilience of our agriculture sector and enabling a competitive advantage and level playing field for Canadian agricultural products are among my top priorities.

    To support these priorities, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is working to remove unnecessary red tape and burden and ensure that our processes and regulations continue to enable prosperity for our agriculture producers, agri-food businesses, and communities across Canada. These measures include:

    • Speeding up product approvals to provide alternatives to U.S.-sourced animal feed.
      This measure will alleviate the burden of tariffs on animal feed producers, by increasing the number of approved feed ingredients from within Canada or from other countries. The CFIA will work with industry to understand prioritization needs and provide new guidance to facilitate the pre-market evaluation process for the approval or registration of some feeds products which are already authorized by a trusted foreign regulator. Together, these measures will enable quicker access to alternative feeds, reduce costs to farmers in the short-term, and support future supply chain sustainability for Canadian producers for years to come.
    • Aiming to harmonize our bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) enhanced feed ban with U.S. requirements. Globally, the incidence of BSE has declined significantly and in 2021, the World Organisation for Animal Health recognized Canada as a country with negligible risk for BSE. Currently, differences between Canadian and U.S. requirements put our beef industry at a competitive disadvantage to their U.S. counterparts. We are working with industry on options to reduce unnecessary costs and improve competitiveness while continuing to protect animal health and maintain Canada’s international trade access.
    • Addressing stakeholder irritants and leveling the playing field for Canadian producers through advancing key regulatory changes that support industry growth and enable fair trade. Canada will explore increasing the maximum slaughter age for feeder calves from 36 to 40 weeks to permit a higher market price for Canadian producers. We are also working to ensure parity between Canadian hatcheries and U.S. hatcheries by harmonizing testing requirements for salmonella enteritis, in line with recent updates to Canadian hatchery regulations.
    • Removing outdated prescriptive requirements and supporting innovation to enable industry-led actions to meet consumer demands and evolving market conditions. We will examine removing unnecessary or outdated labelling requirements for r fresh fruit and vegetables. In addition, we will continue work on a new approach to modernizing fresh fruit and vegetable grades, with the goal of having grades that are outcome-based, harmonized with trading partners where possible, and align with the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations. The CFIA is committed to working with industry to understand obstacles and consult on requirements like standardized food container sizes, which can create unintended trade barriers within Canada, and internationally.

    We will continue to use all available measures to reduce red tape, streamline our processes, modernize our regulations, and reinforce our commitment to open and fair trade.

    Canada’s farmers, producers, and agri-food businesses are essential to our economy, and we are committed to ensuring they have the tools and support they need to succeed at home and on the world stage.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

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

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) joined Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and 29 of their colleagues in demanding the Department of Agriculture reverse its cancellation of food purchase programs across the United States, warning of the harmful impacts this move will have on both families and American farmers. Nevada utilizes these federal funds to support the state’s food bank network and school nutrition programs by purchasing local foods from farmers and producers in Nevada, benefiting students, families, and the local economy.

    “We write to express serious concerns regarding the cancellation of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs supporting local and regional food purchases providing assistance to those in need,” wrote the Senators. “These successful programs, the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS), allow states, territories, and Tribes to purchase local foods from nearby farmers and ranchers to be used for emergency food providers, schools, and child care centers.”

    “At a time when food insecurity remains high, providing affordable, fresh food to food banks and families while supporting American farmers is critical,” they continued. “We have grave concerns that the cancellation of LFPA and LFS poses extreme harm to producers and communities in every state across the country.”

    The full letter can be found here.

    Senators Cortez Masto and Rosen have been vocal opponents of the Trump Administration’s efforts to cut critical programs Nevadans rely on all while trying to give further tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy. The Senators have pushed multiple Departments under the Trump Administration for detailed, public information regarding the impacts of President Trump’s federal funding freeze, hiring freeze, and terminations on Nevada – including to the Department of the Interior, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Nuclear Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Agriculture, and the General Services Administration. Earlier this year, Cortez Masto and Rosen urged the Department of the Interior to immediately cease its freeze of Inflation Reduction Act funding for the Lower Colorado River System Conservation and Efficiency Program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Helps Lead Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Access to Broadband Service for Rural and Underserved Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    Published: 03.18.2025

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped lead bipartisan legislation to improve federal programs that help ensure rural and underserved communities have equitable access to broadband service. The Rural Broadband Protection Act – which Peters cosponsored with U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and John Curtis (R-UT) – would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to certify that federal funding goes toward companies and internet service providers with proven track records in deploying broadband in rural areas. The bill recently passed the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. 
    “Access to affordable, high-speed internet is essential, whether it’s for school, work, seeing your doctor, or running a business, and I’ve been proud to secure robust federal investments in our state to help ensure every Michigander can get connected,” said Senator Peters, a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. “This bipartisan legislation would make sure these federal resources are awarded to organizations with experience in effectively delivering broadband service to rural and underserved communities who need it most.”   
    The FCC’s Connect America Fund (CAF) provides funding to ensure consumers in rural, insular, and high-cost areas have access to essential broadband services. In 2022, more than $8 million in fines were filed against CAF awardees who did not meet the requirements of their funding agreements to improve service in underserved areas. The Rural Broadband Protection Act would require future applicants, either under CAF or a new high-cost universal service program, to undergo a vetting process to help ensure broadband infrastructure investments are effectively implemented in the intended communities.   
    Peters is committed to expanding high-speed internet access across Michigan. In June 2023, he announced that Michigan would receive more than $1.5 billion in federal funding from the Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment Program, known as BEAD, to increase high-speed internet access. In 2023, Peters announced a more than $38 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to support rural communities across Michigan, which was made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act and the bipartisan infrastructure law. In 2024, he secured $27 million for Northern Michigan University to upgrade their Educational Access Network, enabling the university to expand broadband access beyond the thousands of students and families they serve in communities across the Upper Peninsula.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Queensland Media Club address, Q&A

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    Jack McKay:

    Treasurer, thank you very much for that address. We’ll now turn to the question and answer segment of today’s event and we’ll turn to the press gallery very soon. But, Treasurer, I just want to ask you. Obviously this Budget is being delivered with an election around the corner. You cited some statistics there in your speech and you’re certainly making the case that the economy is rebounding, but do you really think people feel better off now compared to 3 years ago when the Albanese government came to power?

    Jim Chalmers:

    First of all, there’s no question that the Australian economy has turned a corner. We see that in all of the ways I ran through in the speech. But what I’ve always done and what I’ve done again today is to acknowledge that a lot of people are still doing it tough. We know that there’s not always a direct correlation between the progress we’re making in the national aggregate data and how people are feeling and faring in the economy. And that’s where our cost‑of‑living help is so important. The cost‑of‑living help that we’re rolling out in all of those different ways. Tax cuts for every taxpayer, energy bill, relief for every household, cheaper early childhood education, cheaper medicines, Fee‑Free TAFE, rent assistance, getting wages moving again, getting inflation down.

    All of this is about not just recognising that people are under pressure, but actually doing something about it. And again, that comes to the core of the contest in this election year. Now, both the major parties in the parliament acknowledge that people are under pressure, but only our side of the parliament has been prepared to do anything about it. Our political opponents at every turn tried to prevent people from getting those tax cuts and getting that cost‑of‑living help. And because of that, Australians would be thousands of dollars worse off if Peter Dutton had his way on the cost‑of‑living help and on the tax cuts and on wages. I think, as Angus Taylor rightly pointed out the other day when he said that the best predictor of future performance is past performance, that should send a shiver up the spine of every Australian, because the past performance of the Liberal and National parties under Peter Dutton is to come after Medicare, come after wages and vote against cost‑of‑living help.

    McKay:

    You talk to voters, though. Do you think they feel better when you speak to them?

    Chalmers:

    I think I said in response to your first question, Jack, I acknowledge that when the national economic data in aggregate is turning Australia’s way, and it has been in very encouraging, very welcome ways, that doesn’t always immediately translate to how people are feeling or faring in the economy. I think I’ve acknowledged that throughout, certainly today, on multiple occasions. What really matters, once you acknowledge that cost‑of‑living pressure, is to be prepared to do something about it. That’s why our cost‑of‑living help is so important. It’s been meaningful, it’s been substantial, it’s been responsible, and without it, Australians would have been worse off. And that’s what Peter Dutton wanted.

    Journalist:

    Okay, Treasurer, thank you. We’ll now go to the back of the room and I believe Tim Arvier from Channel Nine has the first question.

    Journalist:

    Thank you, Jack. And thank you, Treasurer, and thank you for your kind words about the media club earlier. Can I respond by saying here on Table 21, we wish you all the best with delivering the Budget, because as journos, we empathise with people given sudden and unexpected deadlines. My question, though, is about the Olympics. The federal government’s…

    Chalmers:

    I knew your question was going to be about the Olympics.

    Journalist:

    How did you guess?

    The federal government’s committed $2.5 billion for the Brisbane Live Arena. Will you reconsider that if the Crisafulli government tries to move the location of Brisbane Live Arena? And will you rule out any further funding in the budget or down the line for the Olympics?

    Chalmers:

    First of all, unless something’s happened this morning, my understanding is we haven’t been asked to reconsider the commitment that we’ve made to the arena. I work really closely with Anika, with Catherine King, with Anthony Chisholm, with the whole Cabinet, the whole ministry, to find billions of dollars to contribute to the Olympics, because we think the Olympics are going to be amazing for this part of Australia and for Australia more broadly. We’re very enthusiastically investing not just the 2 and a half big ones for the arena, but also almost another billion dollars for the small venues, too. And that shows a willingness and an enthusiasm on our part to invest in the Olympics.

    I know that there’s a lot of speculation, there’s a lot of conjecture around what the next steps might be. When it comes to the review and the decisions that the state government may or may not make, I see no point really engaging in those kinds of hypotheticals. I see that you report on this very frequently on my TV, and I don’t doubt your sources or your intentions, but what we’ll do is we’ll see what the state government comes out with. Our preference, our intention is to stick to that $3.5 billion that we are providing to the Olympics. And as far as I know, we haven’t been asked to do anything different.

    Journalist:

    So, that decision about that funding you’ll make that when you see the plans come out, is that correct?

    Chalmers:

    It strikes me as a hypothetical that we see, obviously, daily reporting from yourself and others about what may or may not be decided by the state government following the review when they release it. What we do is we work closely with state governments right around Australia, of both political persuasions. We know that there’s a big opportunity to make these Olympics amazing. We’re contributing billions of dollars to that end, and we haven’t been asked to consider any different kinds of plans. If and when that happens, we’ll consider it then.

    Journalist:

    Myself and Sarah Elks here from The Australian have both reported there’s a proposal from the Review Board to move Brisbane live to the GoPrint site at the Gabba. If that happens, will you reconsider your funding?

    Chalmers:

    I think, as I’ve tried to say, probably half a dozen ways. Now, Tim, I’ve seen your reports. I don’t doubt your professionalism or your journalism or Sarah’s. That would be mad to do that, especially here. But we haven’t been approached about any different plans from the state government. We’ll consider that if and when it happens.

    Journalist:

    And just very quickly to finish. Have you been approached by the state government for any further funding? Have they asked you for any more money?

    Chalmers:

    I haven’t.

    Journalist:

    All right, who’s next?

    Journalist:

    G’day, Jack. Treasurer, Harry Clark from Sky News.

    I’m interested to hear a bit more of a breakdown of that $1.2 billion in federal money to recover from Cyclone Alfred. There were a lot of high winds. There was nowhere near the rain that was forecast. There’s a lot of erosion on the Gold Coast and some trees are shredding and some landed on some buildings. But we didn’t see suburbs underwater. And there were no prevailing reports of crops being flattened, unlike up in North Queensland with that big dump of rain they just had. The Bruce Highway Bridge got washed away. Where’s that $1.2 billion being spent? And how does that figure compare to what you’re putting into the recovery in North Queensland?

    Chalmers:

    Thanks, Harry. First of all, we’re still assessing the damage, but I can’t wait for another 2 or 3 or 4 weeks or a couple of months before I put it in the budget. I’ve got to put a number in the Budget a week from today. So we make a sensible provision for the recovery and rebuilding communities. It’s a combination of the hardship payments and the allowance in the social security system with the asks that we get from the state governments and local governments to rebuild local infrastructure, you’d be aware you covered it, I suspect most of you did. On those tables up the back, there’s a whole range of different ways that the Commonwealth and the States work together to rebuild communities. Some of it’s automatic, some of it comes from priority lists provided by the states. We’ve made our best estimate that we can at this point to provision responsibly for those sorts of costs.

    This isn’t the first time we’ve done it, as your question rightly alludes to the fact that we’ve also had the provision for a number of natural disasters in recent times, including what we saw in North Queensland and Far North Queensland not that long ago. There’s about $13.5 billion now provisioned in the budget over the forward estimates for these kinds of purposes.

    If you’ll forgive me one more point about the contrast at the election. You will hear my opposite number and occasionally the Leader of the Opposition sometimes talk about wasteful spending and they use a big number. And the big number that they use includes the money that we have provisioned for natural disasters. They think natural disaster funding, billions of dollars we’re providing in Queensland, NSW and elsewhere is wasteful spending. We take a different view. We will be there for Australians as they rebuild. I understand that your question was based on we didn’t get the worst case scenario, but we still got a lot of substantial damage. We still had people without power for a long time. We’ve had damage to local infrastructure. The damage to our farmers and our producers is still being assessed. So we’ve made a sensible provision because of all of that.

    Journalist:

    Hello, Treasurer. Sarah Elks from The Australian newspaper.

    Chalmers:

    You’ve got to quote Tim in your question because he quoted you in his.

    Journalist:

    I agree with him about sudden and unpredictable deadlines. They’re the bane of every Treasurer and journalist’s existence.

    I wanted to ask about the Albanese government’s previous promise about bringing electricity prices down from 2022 levels. Unfortunately, that did not occur. Can you now make a guarantee that power prices for consumers will come down or will at least remain stable in a second term of an Albanese Labor government?

    Chalmers:

    Well, a couple of things about that, a couple of important points there. And I appreciate your question. First of all, if you look at the inflation numbers for the last year to the end of 2024, what we saw that electricity prices were down a little over 25. Yes, you want to think that that is all the rebate, most of that is the rebate, but they still would have gone down a bit over 1.5 per cent absent the rebate. So in the last year, what we saw was some pretty encouraging outcomes when it came to electricity prices. When it comes to the rebate. I want to shout out Steven and Grace as well for the way that we work together to take some of the edge off electricity bills. We understood that that was a big part of cost‑of‑living pressures. We worked together very effectively in ways that I’m very grateful for, to take some of the edge off those electricity prices.

    We know, as I suspect your question is referring to, we’ve had the default market offer released in recent days, and in some parts of Australia, we are expecting some price pressures. As the independent experts said at the time, that is primarily about the unreliability of the legacy parts of the energy network. What we need to do is we need to make sure that we are introducing cheaper, cleaner, more reliable energy into the system over time, because that’s the only way, over the longer term, that you get that downward pressure on prices.

    The third point I’d make is that if you want lower electricity prices, the dumbest thing that you would do would be commit to nuclear reactors in 15 or 20 years’ time, because that leaves the old unreliable parts of the system in place for longer. It’s the most expensive form of new energy and it will push up electricity prices as well as introduce a whole bunch of uncertainty. Now, to finish on the point you made about the 2022 levels, which I suspect is why you’ve asked for the microphone back, the number that you’re referring to, which we all used on a number of occasions, was a forecast in 2021 about an outcome in 2025. And I think for a lot of the reasons that I’ve run through in my speech today, but also particular to the energy market, there’s been a lot of uncertainty, a lot of volatility between 2021 and 2025. Our responsibility is to first of all understand and accept electricity price is a big part of the pressure on families, on households, on pensioners, to do what we can in the near term, which we have with our energy rebates, and in the longer term with our cleaner and cheaper, more reliable energy. And in that, I would happily stack up our plan against this nuclear insanity any day.

    Journalist:

    And just a follow up, well foreshadowed, given that decision from the AER last week or this week, that power prices or the price cap is due to rise. It sounds like you’re not keen to make another guarantee in the way that you did in the past.

    Will there be further electricity bill relief for consumers in the Budget next Tuesday? You can just give us a little hint. We won’t tell anybody.

    Chalmers:

    I think, as I’ve made pretty clear on a number of occasions now, there are hints in the first 3 budgets. For the government’s fourth budget, I’m obviously not going to commit to another round of energy bill rebates here with you in Brisbane a week out from the Budget. But what I can say is that there will be more cost‑of‑living help in the budget. The form of that will be made clear to you over the course of the next week or so, because we understand that people are still under pressure despite this quite remarkable progress that we’re making together in our economy. So there’ll be cost‑of‑living help. It will be meaningful and substantial and it will be responsible, it will be affordable. We can’t do everything that we would like to do because of the fiscal and other constraints that we have. And there’s always a premium on responsibility, but especially now. But there’ll be cost‑of‑living help. The form of that, you’ll have to tune in a week from now.

    Journalist:

    You won’t guarantee power rebates in the next budget just yet.

    Chalmers:

    I’m not going to do that today, Jack. And I’ll give you the same answer I just gave Sarah. There’ll be cost‑of‑living help in the budget. The form of that will be made clear to people over the course of the next week.

    Journalist:

    Would you like the states, you just spoke about that $1,000 rebate earlier, would you like the states to do more heavy lifting on that front and put more rebates in their budget?

    Chalmers:

    Look, I don’t give the states free advice about the pressures on their budgets or what they might do. I think what I’ve tried to do in couching it in the positive – I’m a positive fellow – is to acknowledge what Steven and Grace did in the former cabinet here in Queensland. I get asked from time to time to have a shot at these guys about the spending in their budget, and I refuse to do that because I think Australians need and deserve help with the cost of living. I think it’s all hands on deck when it comes to that important task. We’ve been prepared to play our part. Steven and the colleagues were prepared to play their part and that’s because we recognise people are under pressure now. There are limits to that. There are fiscal limits to that. We want to make sure that we’re part of the solution when it comes to inflation, not part of the problem. And we’ve demonstrated an ability to do that. I’ll leave the decisions for the state colleagues that they will make around their own cabinet tables.

    Journalist:

    Treasurer, Chris Burns from the Courier Mail. And this is really on the back of Tim’s questions. I feel we need to go back to the Olympics here. You’ve made your position very clear about the amount of funding the government’s willing to put up. However, obviously we’re up in the air waiting for review findings to come out. Would you consider putting more funding in if it was used for generational infrastructure? And the second part of that question is too is it makes it very hard to give an informed answer to that. Why haven’t you been able to see the GIICA Reviews reports yet?

    Chalmers:

    What was the last part of your question again?

    Journalist:

    Let me rephrase that properly, thank you. Why hasn’t the state government briefed you on the findings of a game authority’s final report?

    Chalmers:

    It’s a question for them. I don’t know the answer to that. Anika might have a deeper insight into that or Catherine, we’ll wait for the government to engage us. We’ve indicated a willingness and enthusiasm to work closely with the former government and the current government to deliver an amazing Olympics. When it comes to the first part of your question, I mean the $3.5 billion that we’ve put on the table, it’s hard to find $3.5 billion. There’s not a lot of spare cash lying around. We found $3.5 billion and we did that because the infrastructure that we want to build is generational. It is legacy infrastructure. We don’t want to see a dollar of that 3 and a half go to anything that doesn’t make a lasting contribution to South East Queensland and the Australian community more broadly. We put a lot of work into that commitment. We didn’t just pull that number out of a hat. We did a heap of work. We discussed it a bunch of times around the table at the Expenditure Review Committee and the Cabinet. Again, Anika and Catherine have done most of the work on this with me playing a supportive role. But that’s because we believe in these investments. We believe there’ll be a generational dividend to them.

    Journalist:

    Would you like to see that review soon? They’ve been sitting on for a while.

    Chalmers:

    Ideally, I think we’ve made it really clear, if the state government is contemplating a change in direction, it would be good if they made that clear. We’ve not been approached to change the way that we’re going at it. We’ve put $3.5 billion on the table for good reasons. We’re big believers in the Olympics. We think it’s going to be amazing and we want to get cracking.

    Journalist:

    Can I just follow on from that, though, you say you didn’t pull that $3.5 billion out of a hat. How then are you going to take into account inflation, construction costs? Given the fact that the Olympics are years away, wouldn’t you then account for more money along the way?

    Chalmers:

    Yes, that’s a pretty common feature of budgeting for big infrastructure projects. One of the reasons why there’s a lot of pressure on our budgets collectively is because we have seen a blowout in costs. We try to provision for that and allow for that as responsibly as we can, but that’s not unique to Olympics infrastructure. A lot of the projects we’re building, which have long lead times and long build times, we’ve unfortunately seen a blowout in cost. We try to adapt to that. We try to make room for that and provision for that in our budgets. And that’s the case with the Olympics infrastructure, too.

    Journalist:

    Hi, Treasurer. Joe Hinchliffe from The Guardian. We’re looking at a forecast of a string of deficits as far as the eye can see. With all due respect, how can you prosecute the argument that the Albanese government is a responsible economic manager?

    Chalmers:

    We delivered the first 2 surpluses in almost 2 decades. Our predecessors promised a surplus in their first year and every year thereafter, and went precisely none for 9. We have helped engineer a $200 billion turnaround in the budget, a $200 billion improvement in the budget in nominal terms. That’s the biggest that has ever happened. Even this year, where we will be printing next week, a deficit, that deficit is very substantially smaller than what we inherited when we came to office. And we’ve been able to do all of that, to make all of that progress in the budget at the same time as we provided this cost‑of‑living help invested in the future, invested in the resilience of our economy and one of the dividends of that. We don’t see those 2 surpluses or the smaller deficits as an end in themselves. We see it as a way to avoid interest costs. We see it as a way to make room for other priorities so that we can fund cost‑of‑living help or natural disaster recovery and the like. But we’ve paid down, I think, more than $170 billion in Liberal debt since we came to office. We’ve only been here not even a full term yet, and that’s saving us tens of billions of dollars in debt interest, which we can invest in strengthening Medicare or providing cost‑of‑living help and the like. I think any objective observer of the progress we’ve made in the budget over the last couple of years would recognise and would acknowledge that the way that we’ve managed the budget over the course of the last couple of years has been very responsible in comparison with our predecessors, but responsible in terms of the overall progress that we’ve been able to make.

    Journalist:

    Treasurer, on the back of Harry’s question, before just touching on heavy storms up north, obviously Queensland’s faced 2 disasters recently, but in the Townsville region there are still residents in suburbs impacted by the heavy flooding, loss of clothes, furniture, who do not qualify for Commonwealth funding. What would you say to claims by Coalition MPs that there is a double standard between how the government responded to Tropical Cyclone Alfred compared to funding arrangements for the Townsville region? Is this an example or a case of a South East being preferred to the regions?

    Chalmers:

    No, I don’t believe so. We’ve provided and we are providing very substantial assistance and funding in North Queensland and Far North Queensland. We understand the very serious damage that’s been done up north and we consider the questions around eligibility, the questions around support, the questions about recovery funding and rebuilding communities to be the same whether they happen in Cairns or Townsville or Brisbane or the Gold Coast or in the Northern Rivers in NSW. If there are instances where that support should have been provided and hasn’t, obviously I’m prepared to take that up with the relevant colleagues.

    Journalist:

    Any more?

    Journalist:

    Yes, another one here. Mr Treasurer, you’ve spoken about the global picture and talking about tariffs from the US on aluminium and steel and some of the comments you’ve made on them. Given those tariffs, what value does the US‑Australia Free Trade Agreement still hold? And are you preparing and how are you preparing for the prospect of future tariffs, perhaps in agriculture and other sectors?

    Chalmers:

    First of all, our colleague Don Farrell, the Trade Minister, has been engaging with his counterpart, I think this morning on some of these important questions. Obviously there is more discussion to be had between now and the next deadline and we will make Australia’s case. And a really important part of Australia’s case is the fact that the US enjoys tariff‑free access to our markets because of that Free Trade Agreement. Now, when I engage with my counterpart, when Don does, Penny does, Richard does, the PM does and others – one of the things that we point out is that this has been for a very long time a relationship of mutual economic benefit and the Free Trade Agreement has been part of that. The Americans run a big trade surplus with us. They enjoy tariff free access to our markets. We have a substantial amount of the critical minerals that they’re after. They build the future of their own economy. So we’ve got a compelling story to tell and a good case to make when it comes to these tariffs.

    As I’ve said today, the PM said the other day and other colleagues have said in between, a very disappointing decision from the US not to exempt us on steel and aluminium. The wrong decision, wrong‑headed for all of the reasons that we have made clear. And we will continue to engage between now and the next deadline and after that as well, to make sure that we get the best deal that we can for our workers, our businesses, our industries and our economy.

    Journalist:

    We’ve got time for a couple more. Any more in the back table there, Treasurer?

    Journalist:

    The former Queensland government knew that their hiked coal royalties regime would most likely have an impact on GST and the GST share that Queensland would get. Should they have had a contingency plan in place for this redistribution that we’ve seen announced this week?

    Chalmers:

    First of all, everybody knows that royalty collection has an impact on the calculation made independently and at arm’s length by the Commonwealth. That’s not some kind of revelation. That’s how the system works. What happens is the Commonwealth Grants Commission at arm’s length from the federal government, for good reason, independent from the government, undertakes about 12 months’ worth of consultation with the states and territories. They do multiple rounds of that consultation and people know that when other sources of income go up substantially, then that has implications for the formula. I think everybody has known that for some time now.

    The current Queensland government were clearly expecting that reduction because they booked a big part of it in their mid‑year update and they said at the time that they thought that there were further downside risks to that. And part of the reason for that is because in the relevant period coal royalties went up, I think $8.8 billion from memory. So, none of that is a surprise. And again, I say the same thing I said yesterday when asked about this. You know, it’s not unusual for state treasurers and state governments to want more money from the Commonwealth or from the GST carve, that is states wanting more money from the Commonwealth is a story as old as federation. I continue to deal with Treasurer Janetzki and his colleagues in a respectful way. I understand they’ve got a view about this. But it’s an independent process at arm’s length and it takes into consideration all of the things it’s been taken into consideration for some time, including royalty payments in areas like coal.

    McKay:

    We’ve got time for one more question.

    Journalist:

    We had a few unexpected guests earlier today and they were asking you when will Labor stop approving new coal and gas projects? You want to win a couple of seats from the greens in Brisbane, Griffith and Brisbane. When will Labor stop approving new coal and gas projects?

    Chalmers:

    Well, I don’t think it’s a good idea to reward that kind of behaviour by asking their questions for them. That’s the first point.

    Journalist:

    It’s still a relevant policy question. It’s not like those people were the first people to ask you that question.

    Chalmers:

    I understand. What we have done and what we will continue to do is to make the best decisions that we can for our environment and for our economy, making sure that we balance all of the relevant considerations, environmental considerations, impact on communities, impact on the national economy and what we have shown. And here I tip my lid to Tanya Plibersek and the colleagues. They have been approving heaps of renewable energy projects, I think a record amount of renewable energy projects from memory. What we’re trying to do is to strike the right balance, recognising that we can make ourselves an indispensable part of the global net zero economy at the same time as we leverage some of our traditional strengths. There is a role, for example, for gas in the energy transformation. We’ve been upfront about that as well. We’ll continue to strike the right balance. I know that there’s a range of views at one end and at the other end we are a responsible middle of the road government which takes decisions based on evidence. We approve projects where we can, where they satisfy all of those criteria that I ran through.

    Journalist:

    Treasurer, I’ll just finish up with this one. Federal Labor has gone backwards in terms of the number of seats it holds in Queensland in the last 2 elections. Do you think federal Labor would do better if it had a leader from Queensland?

    Chalmers:

    I think that’s a bit embarrassing to put Anika on the spot like that. No, I think we’re going to put our best foot forward in Queensland and one of the reasons for that is because I genuinely believe that Anthony Albanese has that kind of practical pragmatism that Queenslanders appreciate. Queenslanders are practical people. They’re pragmatic, they’re problem solvers, they’re middle of the road, they’re not especially ideological. I think that’s a description that applies equally to the Prime Minister.

    Given you’ve given me this opportunity, the Prime Minister really enthusiastically believes in the future of our state. He believes in its contribution to the national economy and the nation more broadly. And one of the ways that he has demonstrated that commitment to us is the way that he has promoted and given positions of influence to Queenslanders in our government. We’ve got 4 front benchers. You mentioned unkindly that our numbers were not exactly thick on the ground here in Queensland. But of the people that have been elected from Queensland into the Albanese government – we’ve got 3 Ministers in the cabinet, we’ve got another Minister, we’ve got the speaker of the House, we’ve got a couple of great backbenchers, we’ve got an envoy in Nita Green. We’re short on numbers, but we’re not short on influence. When the time comes for the election campaign and when people are asking, we’re asking for Queenslanders for their vote, I think that they can rest assured that Queensland has a big say in our government, a big say in our policy agenda, a big say around our cabinet table and in all the decision making forums of our government. That’s because Prime Minister Albanese deeply believes in our state, our people, and its potential.

    Journalist:

    So, you don’t have aspirations to become leader one day yourself?

    Chalmers:

    No.

    Journalist:

    All right. Well, thank you very much, Treasurer, for your time today. That brings us to the conclusion of our lunch. Please join me in thanking the Treasurer.

    Chalmers:

    Thanks, Jack. Thanks, everyone.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Speech by Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, President and Chairman of the Boards of Directors African Development Bank Group, at the High-Level Conference on…

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    [PROTOCOLS]

    Your Excellencies,

    Honourable Ministers,

    Distinguished delegates,

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Good morning.

    I am delighted to join you all today at this high-level conference, focusing on smallholder farmers.

    On behalf of the African Development Bank Group, I wish to convey our profound gratitude to our host, His Excellency President William Ruto, his government and the people of Kenya for their generous support for hosting this High-Level Conference in Nairobi.

    I would have joined you for the sessions at this high-level conference yesterday, but I had a very important engagement at the State House, Kenya. It was such a great honour, yesterday for His Excellency President William Ruto to confer on me the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H), Kenya’s highest national honour and distinction.

    I wish to express my deepest gratitude once again to President Ruto for this exceptional honour, given only to 19 Heads of State and Government and global leaders since 1963.

    I am especially delighted that the conferment of this honour was given the same day that farmers and agribusinesses of Africa are gathered right here at the High-level conference on ‘Scaling Financing for Smallholder Farmers”.

    As you know, I am a great supporter of African farmers and agribusinesses. So, I wish to ask that you all join me in thanking President Ruto for this great honour.

    Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    I wish to commend our partners, the Pan African Farmers’ Organization (PAFO) and all the partner organizations that have worked tirelessly with our teams from the African Development Bank to organize this high-level conference.

    We meet here in Nairobi to reposition and expand opportunities for Africa’s smallholder farmers who contribute over 80% of the continent’s food production.

    I will be speaking to you today on: “Progress Since Dakar 2 Feed Africa Summit: a portrait of success in building coalitions for supporting smallholder farmers to transform African economies”.

    Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    Africa will be the epicentre of feeding the world, since 65% of the uncultivated arable land left in the world is in Africa. Therefore, what Africa does with its agriculture will determine the future of food in the world.

    It is with this goal of unleashing the potential of Africa to feed itself, and to do so with pride, that the African Development Bank, in partnership with the Government of Senegal and the African Union, organized the Feed Africa Summit (or Dakar 2) in 2023.

    The theme of the Summit was on Achieving Food Sovereignty and Resilience. Attended by 34 heads of state and government, Dakar 2 showed the political commitment of governments towards ensuring food security and food sovereignty in Africa.

    Many of you were there!

    At the heart of Dakar 2 were 41 Presidential Boardrooms that launched Country Food and Agriculture Delivery Compacts outlining national production targets, enabling policies, smallholder farmers’ support, rural infrastructure development, and innovative financing solutions.

    Dakar 2 gave us a renewed sense of purpose and marked a turning point in Africa’s pursuit of food security through the power of partnerships and cooperation.

    Dakar 2 showed us the power of partnerships. At the Dakar 2 Feed Africa Summit, development partners committed $30 billion to support the Compacts, with the African Development Bank Group pledging $10 billion.

    In less than a year after the Dakar 2 Feed Africa summit, financial commitments from development partners from around the world increased to $72 billion.

    This is unprecedented in the history of agriculture in Africa.

    Since then, the African Development Bank has made tremendous progress in our combined continental quest to Feed Africa, approving 77 operations valued at $3.9 billion to support the implementation of Compacts in 32 countries.

    This year, the African Development Bank plans to approve an additional $1.72 billion in project investments and policy-based operations.

    Central to the Compacts is the Bank’s flagship initiative, the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) which aims to double food production by providing proven technologies to more than 40 million smallholder farmers by 2025.

    The TAAT platform has delivered heat-tolerant wheat varieties, drought-tolerant maize varieties, and high-yield rice varieties, as well as capacity building, training and other related services to 25 million farmers across the continent.

    Our efforts with partners have increased Africa’s crop production by an estimated 120 million tonnes of additional food. A total of $1.7 billion in investments has been influenced by TAAT’s climate-smart technologies – and about 247 million Africans have better nutrition today, due to TAAT.

    TAAT is also a key driver of the African Development Bank’s $1.5 billion African Emergency Food Production Facility approved in 2022 to avert a looming food crisis following global geopolitical tensions. The facility is a continental initiative to support 20 million smallholder farmers in 35 countries to access certified seeds and fertilizer to produce 38 million metric tons of food.

    As of December 2024, the African Emergency Food Production Facility had delivered 459,000 tons of seed, distributed 2.8 million tonnes of fertilizer to 12.3 million farmers. It has supported the production of 37.6 million metric tons of additional food in Africa. are on course to meeting and even surpassing the target we set just about two years ago.

    Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    We are working hard to connect farmers to market off-takers, and to accelerate the processing and value addition to food and agricultural commodities. We are doing this through the development and roll out of Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones.

    The African Development Bank has committed $934.51 million to the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones, which has been matched with co-financing from our partners amounting to $938.27 million. Currently, we have 27 ongoing Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones projects across 11 countries.

    However, despite lots of progress being made, one area that continues to remain a challenge for farmers, especially smallholder farmers, and small and medium sized agribusinesses, is lack of access to finance.

    There exists an annual financing deficit of $75 billion for farmers and small and medium enterprises. Data from 35 lenders found a perception of higher risks and lower returns by commercial banks to lending to agriculture-linked small and medium enterprises.

    Therefore, we must find efficient ways to “de-risk” lending to farmers and small and medium enterprises. This can be achieved by absorbing incremental risk and thereby increasing lenders’ risk appetite and by leveraging outside private sector finance into the agricultural sector.

    The three major investment channels deployed effectively by the African Development Bank in addressing these challenges include: (1) the Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA), (2) the African Fertilizer Financing Mechanism, and (3) the Inputs Supplier Risk Sharing Program.

    First: as of February 2025, the Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa program had approved $2.52 billion in financing for over 24,000 of Africa’s women-led businesses. This has been achieved through partnerships with the Africa Guarantee Fund which now works with over 185 financial institutions across 44 African countries.

    Second: The African Fertilizer Financing Mechanism has implemented trade credit guarantee projects in 8 countries, including Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Uganda and Mozambique. The $17.1 million trade credit guarantee was leveraged by 4.7 times, including 13 times leverage in Tanzania. It has enabled the distribution of 125,193 metric tons of fertilizer worth $62.8 million, which benefited 776,971 smallholder farmers during the 2019–2024 seasons. These projects also facilitated access to finance for over 126 hub agro-based enterprises involved in fertilizer distribution, with women beneficiaries representing 36% of the African Fertilizer Financing Mechanism projects. 

    And the third channel is the African Development Bank’s new $600 million Inputs Supplier Risk Sharing Program. This is to support the development of more robust agricultural inputs market systems through de-risking of the inputs supply ecosystem. This is focusing on Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana and Zambia. Initially this will be undertaken through the deployment of a risk sharing mechanism, backed by the Bank’s Partial Credit Guarantee instrument, to attract private sector, and donor resources for the development of a sustainable agricultural-inputs market system.

    Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    In addition, the African Development Bank is working with Mastercard and other partners on developing the “Mobilizing Access to the Digital Economy,” or the MADE Alliance Africa. The Bank’s first phase commitment includes $300 million to the MADE Alliance Africa’s initial five years of programming. By doing so, the African Development Bank aims to bring 3 million farmers in Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria into the digital economy.

    I am pleased to inform you that we will be consulting with our Board of Directors of the African Development Bank to establish a $500 million facility to unlock $10 billion of financing for smallholder farmers, as well as small and medium sized agribusiness enterprises.           

    This will include the use of trade credit guarantees, first loss coverage, blended finance, and origination incentives that defray the high transaction costs of serving enterprises, as well as technical assistance.

    Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

    From Dakar 2 Feed Africa summit to Nairobi ‘Scaling up finance for farmers” conference today, we stand on the threshold of making history by pushing the boundaries of innovation and building extensive collaborative alliances to accelerate action towards bridging the financing gap facing smallholder farmers and small and medium sized agribusinesses.

    The African Development Bank remains fully committed to collaborating with the Pan African Farmers’ Organization and its subsidiary farmers’ organizations, as well as development partners and financial institutions, to fully unlock financing for smallholder farmers and small and medium sized agribusiness enterprises.

    Together, let us expand access to finance at scale for farmers and small and medium sized agribusinesses.

    Together, let us provide strong policy support for farmers.

    Africa must never abandon its farmers.

    Together, let us unleash the potential of agriculture in Africa.

    Let us make Africa the breadbasket of the world.

    And together, let us feed Africa, with pride!

    Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global and African Financial Experts Urge Action to Enhance Smallholder Farmer Financing

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    Leading global and African financial experts have issued a resounding call to align financial structures with the needs of smallholder farmers.

    Speaking at a two-day conference on financing Africa’s smallholder farmers in Nairobi, Kenya, the experts underscored the crucial role of government intervention in creating an enabling environment for financial institutions to expand agricultural lending.

    The conference represents a pivotal step in mobilizing the billions needed annually to support Africa’s smallholder farmers, who make up some 80% of the continent’s farming population but control less than 5% of agricultural land.

    African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina delivered the keynote address, highlighting a glaring disconnect: while agriculture contributes 30% to Africa’s GDP, it accounts for only 6% of commercial bank lending.

    “Smallholder farmers around the world are the same, except those from Africa face difficult odds — poor access to markets, finance, information, infrastructure, and inputs—none of which we can’t address collectively,” Adesina said.

    A key highlight of Tuesday’s session was a panel discussion featuring Alice Albright, former CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC); Brian Milder, Founder and CEO of Aceli Africa; and Jules Ngankam, Group CEO of the African Guarantee Fund. Moderated by former international broadcaster Yvonne Ndege, the panel explored practical designs for sustainable financing mechanisms to bridge the financing gap in agriculture.

    Panelists identified several critical barriers to adequate financing. These include risk misperceptions in agricultural lending, high transaction costs for rural financial services, mismatches between standard loan products and agricultural business cycles, lack of formal financial records and collateral, and inequitable value chain structures that limit farmer profitability.

    Milder shared a success story from Tanzania, where targeted interventions enabled Tanzania Commercial Bank to increase its agricultural lending share from 2% to much higher levels while simultaneously quadrupling rural bank deposits.

    He also highlighted the stark contrast between the 14% yield on Kenyan government bonds and the mere 3% average return on agricultural SME lending, illustrating the urgent need for solutions that make agricultural finance more attractive to investors.

    “Capital is like water—it runs downhill,” Milder noted. “We need solutions that consider the full profitability equation, including transaction costs, risk, and capital costs for financial intermediaries.”

    Albright drew on her experience developing the International Finance Facility for Immunization, which has raised $9.7 billion, to emphasize the need to clearly define financing challenges, assess risks, and build political will among governments.

    “We must articulate the public policy rationale for financing smallholder farmers and address key design challenges, including risk management and cost efficiency,” Albright stated. “With political will, innovative financial instruments, and strategic partnerships, we can establish a robust financing ecosystem that ensures capital flows where it is needed most.”

    Ngankam provided insights into how risk mitigation strategies could unlock financing for smallholder farmers. He emphasized the necessity of financial products tailored to different agricultural value chains.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada Supports Tree-Planting Activities in Gatineau and Across Quebec

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    March 18, 2025                                      Gatineau, Quebec                                Natural Resources Canada

    Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, along with the Honourable Steven Guilbeault,  Minister of Canadian Culture and Identity, Parks Canada and Quebec Lieutenant, announced more than $16 million in funding for four tree-planting projects that will bring environmental, health and social benefits to both urban and rural communities across the province of Quebec.

    The City of Gatineau and the City of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu are receiving funding for urban tree-planting projects that will plant new trees on public lands, helping to capture carbon, increase biodiversity and cool areas vulnerable to extreme heat.

    With the funding announced today, the City of Gatineau will:

    • increase its urban tree canopy to 30 percent by planting 80,000 new trees in all the city’s communities over the next six years;
    • establish urban forests that will help improve air and soil quality, support biodiversity and contribute to the health and well-being of citizens; and
    • create five new jobs in the region, as well as long-term contracts for forest maintenance over the years. 

    The City of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu will carry out its own tree-planting project that will:

    • plant 70,000 new trees and increase its urban tree canopy to 20 percent, with the longer-term goal of 30-percent tree cover;
    • beautify the city by planting trees and establishing micro-forests along roadways, riverbanks and in existing forests; and
    • sequester carbon while increasing the city’s resilience to the effects of climate change.

    Two more federally funded projects across the province will contribute toward reforestation and afforestation in rural areas of Quebec:

    • Harpur Farm LTD is receiving funds to plant 251,000 trees in western Quebec, afforesting more than 208 acres of marginal lands and reforesting 41 acres in degraded woodlands.  In collaboration with Nature Conservancy Canada, this project will expand the critical Plaisance–Tremblant ecological corridor, to allow wildlife to move freely north–south and will establish multi-species forests with edible forest products such as nuts, acorns, fruit and maple syrup.
    • Pepinière Forestière Tshitassinu is receiving funds to develop a 100-percent automated, Indigenous-led tree nursery in Mashteuiatsh, Lac-Saint Jean, that will be able to produce more than 10 million seedlings per year. The proponent will set up 30 state-of-the-art greenhouses to produce seedlings to reforest the boreal forest.

    These projects are being supported in part by Canada’s 2 Billion Trees (2BT) program. This program is dedicated to working with governments and organizations across the country to support the expansion of Canada’s forests while creating sustainable jobs in communities. 

    Quotes

    “Trees are essential to our lives: they clean the air we breathe, they make the outdoors even more enjoyable, they provide new habitats for wildlife, and they help us adapt to a changing climate. The Government of Canada is pleased to be supporting municipalities and private organizations in Quebec in their efforts to increase urban green spaces and forests. By planting the right tree in the right place, we are creating a greener, healthier and more-resilient Canada for generations to come.”

    The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
    Minister of Energy and Natural Resources 

    “Trees are one of the most effective ways to fight climate change and tackle biodiversity loss. We’re helping communities across the country become greener and more sustainable. In the cities of Gatineau and Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, this means planting tens of thousands of new trees — reducing pollution, improving air quality and combating urban heat islands, especially during extreme heat. This initiative will increase the urban tree canopy by over 20 percent in both cities and increase the quality of life for families. With over $12 billion invested in conservation and climate solutions since 2015, our government is building a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.”

     

    The Honourable Steven Guilbeault
    Minister of Canadian Culture and Identity, Parks Canada and Quebec Lieutenant

    “Thanks to this investment from the federal government, Gatineau is taking another step toward implementing its Urban Forestry Plan and building a more sustainable city to reduce vulnerability to climate change. Planting 80,000 new trees is more than just an environmental initiative — it’s a concrete commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents by creating cooler, more attractive and accessible neighborhood’s and public spaces. With this vision, the city of Gatineau is accelerating the balance between urban development and the preservation of natural spaces.”

    Maude Marquis-Bissonnette
    Mayor, City of Gatineau

    “Valuable to our community, this funding allows us to increase our efforts to green our territory, one of the main objectives of our Tree Policy. As a City, we are working to provide a greener, more resilient and sustainable environment for our citizens in a context where climate change is already having a real impact. This support is a new incentive in achieving these collective goals, whose impacts will be felt quickly and well beyond our generation.”

    Andrée Bouchard
    Mayor, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu

    “Harpur Farms is a multi-generational family forestry business. We strongly believe that ‘great societies are those where people plant trees in whose shade they will never sit’. It is our privilege to work with a partner who shares the same long-term view.”

    Jordan Harpur
    President, Harpur Farms Ltd. 

    “First Nations want to play an active role in forest industry activities — especially in land management, forest reforestation and the production of forest seedlings to be planted on our Nitassinan (Territory) — and, above all, to leave an incredible legacy to our future generations.”

    Ricardo Arias
    President and Founder, Pepinière Forestière Tshitassinu

    Quick facts

    • The Government of Canada is contributing $2.7 million toward the City of Gatineau’s urban tree-planting project. The project is expected to plant 80,000 trees throughout the city by March 31, 2031.

    • The City of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu received $2 million in funding from Canada’s 2BT program to plant 70,000 trees by March 31, 2031.

    • Harpur Farm LTD received $1.9 million from Canada’s 2BT program to plant 251,000 trees on 208.5 acres of marginal lands and 41.9 acres in degraded woodlands. 

    • Canada’s 2BT program is funding $10 million to Pepinière Forestière Tshitassinu to build a fully automated Indigenous-led forest nursery. 

    • These projects are being supported by Canada’s 2 Billion Trees program. 2BT is part of the Government of Canada’s broader approach to nature-based climate solutions. The program is dedicated to working together with provinces, territories, local communities, non-and for-profit organizations and Indigenous Peoples across the country to ensure that the benefits of tree planting will endure for generations.

    • 2BT engages with applicants to understand their plans for preparing sites, how they are selecting species and how they plan to monitor after planting. Funding recipients report every year, and the program has a long-term monitoring plan to monitor the progress and the health of the trees. By ensuring the initial job is done well, nature can then thrive, maintaining the long-term health of forested sites. 

    • As of September 2024, the Government of Canada has secured or is negotiating agreements with partners to plant over 716 million trees.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Natural Resources Canada
    Media Relations
    343-292-6096
    media@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Joanna Sivasankaran
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    Joanna.Sivasankara@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Rachel Rivard
    Manager – Public Relations, Gatineau
    819 243-2345, ext 4001
    rivard.rachel@gatineau.ca

     

    Marie-Pier Gagnon
    Digital Strategy and Media Relations Advisor, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
    450 357-2098, ext 2078
    m.gagnon@sjsr.ca

    Carl Simoncelli
    Vice-President, Harpur Farms Ltd.
    514-282-1996
    carl.simoncelli@taoco.com

    Ricardo Arias
    President and Founder, Pepinière Forestière Tshitassinu
    418-275-4545, ext 22
    arias.ricardo175@gmail.com

    Follow us on LinkedIn

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: CJMining Expands in North America, Plans to Acquire 53 MW Bitcoin Mining Facility in Oklahoma

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Columbus, OH, March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — According to the latest industry analysis from CoinDesk, the Bitcoin mining industry in North America has experienced an annual growth rate of approximately 15%, driven by continuously falling electricity costs. To capitalize on this advantageous trend, globally recognized Bitcoin mining service provider CJMining announced that it has signed a letter of intent to acquire a controlling stake in a 53-megawatt (MW) Bitcoin mining facility located in Oklahoma, United States.

    Low-Cost Energy Strategy: Electricity Costs at Just $0.029/kWh

    CJMining’s official announcement highlighted that the targeted mining facility is located in a remote, unpopulated area of Oklahoma, equipped with advanced infrastructure including stable power supply, state-of-the-art security systems, and modern mining equipment. The facility utilizes air-cooled Bitcoin mining hardware to maintain high performance and stable hash rates.

    CJMining emphasized that the facility boasts an extremely competitive electricity price, averaging around $0.029 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), substantially below North America’s current industry average of approximately $0.04/kWh. This advantage is expected to significantly boost the company’s long-term profitability and competitive position in the mining industry.

    The acquisition is subject to several standard conditions, including financial audits and legal due diligence, with completion expected in the first half of 2025. However, the company has acknowledged that the finalization of the deal will depend on satisfactory outcomes of the due diligence process.

    CJMining CEO Highlights Strategic Long-Term Vision

    In a recent media interview, CJMining’s CEO stated:

    “As the Bitcoin mining industry in North America continues its rapid growth, it is crucial for us to leverage strategic low-cost energy advantages and proactively establish operations in high-growth regions. This acquisition is a pivotal step toward achieving CJMining’s ambitious target of reaching 1 gigawatt (GW) of global mining power capacity.”

    He further emphasized that the company remains committed to maintaining secure, compliant, and transparent blockchain infrastructure, with future plans to expand operations into additional major digital asset sectors.

    Launch of CJMining Pool to Enhance Market Competitiveness

    In parallel, CJMining recently launched its proprietary mining pool service—CJMining Pool—offering miners exceptionally competitive commission rates starting at just 0.4%. Miners can easily access the pool services through CJMining’s official application, currently focused exclusively on Bitcoin (BTC) mining.

    CJMining Pool provides miners with real-time hash-rate monitoring tools, optimized firmware solutions, and regular equipment maintenance services. Additionally, customized mining solutions are available to institutional clients, aimed at maximizing overall mining profitability.

    Community-Driven Strategy: Encouraging Shared Growth

    To promote a vibrant mining ecosystem, CJMining has introduced an incentivized referral program encouraging users to invite friends to join Bitcoin mining activities. Participants in the referral program receive additional rewards, effectively boosting their individual earnings and benefiting the overall community.

    This approach aligns with current digital marketing trends, with recent studies showing referral-based community growth significantly enhances user engagement and mining profitability compared to traditional methods.

    Future Outlook and Market Positioning

    As the global Bitcoin mining industry enters a new growth phase in 2025, CJMining’s strategic positioning in North America’s low-cost energy market substantially enhances its competitive edge. Company executives confirmed that CJMining would continue strengthening partnerships with leading ASIC mining equipment manufacturers globally, ensuring technological leadership and maximizing long-term benefits for miners.

    For more information, visit https://cjmining.com

    Media Contacts:

    ● Contact: Andrew Jackson

    ● Organization: CJMining

    ● Email: support(at)cjmining.com

    ● Website: https://cjmining.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risk. There is potential for loss of funds. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: National Agriculture Day, 2025

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-center”>By the President of the United States of America

    A Proclamation

    From the earliest days of our Republic, our farmers and agricultural communities have been the source of American success — enduring the elements and defying hard conditions to cultivate our land and feed the people.  Farming is indelibly engrained in our history, customs, and culture, and stands to this day as the bedrock of our economy and way of life.  This National Agriculture Day, we pay tribute to every farmer and rancher who makes our country strong — and we commit to empowering our agricultural community to forge a long, successful, and bountiful American future.

    Every day, farmers and agriculture workers ensure that families across America and around the world have stable access to high-quality products — including food for our tables, clothes for our backs, and fuel for our cars.  Over 95 percent of all farms in the United States are family-owned and are vital to rural and economic stability, comprising 83 percent of total farm production.

    To make good on my promises to fortify the American farmer and make our Nation’s agricultural products affordable again, I have worked to rapidly reduce the spread of bird flu inherited from the previous administration — including by strengthening biosecurity measures and ensuring rapid outbreak containment.  As President, I will ensure that American agriculture remains the gold standard of the world, producing the best food, feed, fuel, and fiber on the face of the Earth.  My Administration will strengthen our farmers’ competitiveness on the world stage by promoting fair trade practices, streamlining export processes, and expanding market access. 

    For centuries, American farmers and ranchers have been the lifeblood of the American economy.  Today and every day, we extend our unending gratitude to the dedicated men and women in farming communities who embody the timeless virtues of hard work and self-reliance.  As we continue our new chapter of American prosperity, we commit to embolden the heroes of our agricultural community who work tirelessly with their unwavering American pride to nourish our Nation, feed our families, and fuel our way of life.

    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 18, 2025, as National Agriculture Day.  I encourage all Americans to observe this day by recognizing the preeminent role that agriculture plays in our daily lives, acknowledging agriculture’s continuing importance to rural America and our country’s economy, and expressing our deep appreciation of farmers, growers, ranchers, producers, national forest system stewards, private agricultural stewards, and those who work in the agriculture sector across the Nation.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C. supporting food manufacturing, food security

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    New support for food and beverage manufacturers throughout the province will create jobs, strengthen local supply chains, establish new B.C.-made products and increase food security for people in British Columbia.

    “We are all working together to create new opportunities for B.C.-based food manufacturers that will strengthen our province,” said Diana Gibson, B.C.’s Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “Improving food security and increasing sustainable, local food production is critical for people and families as we continue facing unjustified tariffs from our neighbour to the south.”

    Through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund (BCMJF), the Province is contributing as much as $6.6 million toward the growth of seven food manufacturing companies in communities throughout the province. These expansion projects are enabling B.C. producers to remain competitive by scaling up and adding new product lines, while creating more than 165 sustainable jobs throughout the province.

    Located in Kelowna, Farming Karma Fruit Company Ltd. is a family-owned-and-operated business that manufactures value-added fruit products, such as sparkling fruit beverages, using Okanagan-grown fruit. It will receive as much as $2 million to support the purchase of advanced manufacturing equipment that will bring primary processing in house, increase production and expand its product lines. This investment will help create 32 jobs and strengthen the company’s distribution of made-in-B.C. fruit products across Canada.

    “Supporting food manufacturing in B.C. strengthens the economy, creates jobs and builds a resilient food system,” said Avi Gill, CEO and co-founder, Farming Karma Fruit Company. “We’re grateful for the B.C. government’s support in expanding our manufacturing operation and the opportunities it brings. As next-generation farmers, our vision is to lead in creating value-added fruit products, support local farmers, and innovate for the future of farming.”

    Operating in the Fraser Valley, One Degree Organic Foods is a family-run organic food producer, specializing in oats, granola, cereals and flours made from organic, non-GMO ingredients sourced from Canadian and international farmers. It will receive as much as $2 million to consolidate its four smaller locations into one larger, centralized facility in Mission, purchase new equipment that will double production capacity to meet growing customer demand and establish new product lines, while creating 32 jobs.

    “With the support of the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, we are enhancing operational efficiency through a consolidated facility allowing us to better serve our customers,” said Greg Dengin, CFO, One Degree Organic Foods Inc. “This investment increases our capacity and accelerates One Degree Organic Foods’ ability to provide traceable organic products, while strengthening our connection to the Mission community and continuing to support job growth in British Columbia.”

    BCMJF funding for food manufacturing projects builds on recent work by the Province to support B.C.’s agriculture and food sector and strengthen food security. A new Premier’s task force, led by leaders representing the food supply chain from farm to table, is looking at ways to enhance B.C.’s agricultural and food economic growth and competitiveness.

    Additionally, government continues to support innovation in farming through the BC Centre for Agritech Innovation with 19 new projects, representing nearly 200 new jobs, while creating more sustainable and efficient food production.

    “The food and beverage sector is a core part of B.C.’s manufacturing industry, generating over $13 billion in revenue and over 40,000 jobs,” said Lana Popham, B.C.’s Minister of Agriculture and Food. “Through smart investments of equipment, infrastructure and technology, the delicious harvest we reap each year can also be transformed into made-in-B.C. products, keeping jobs and dollars in the province. That’s smart economics, especially in the face of ongoing threats to B.C.’s well-being from the United States.”

    Clean and Competitive: A Blueprint for B.C.’s Industrial Future lays out the Province’s work to drive new investment, create new jobs and seize new opportunities in growing clean-energy and sustainable industries. Supporting local manufacturing sectors helps leverage B.C.’s strengths to create good jobs and opportunities in every community and will improve the quality of life for people, while strengthening B.C.’s diverse economy.

    Quick Facts:

    • The BCMJF supports high-value industrial and manufacturing capital projects across all sectors that create and protect well-paying jobs.
    • The BCMJF has committed $146 million toward 132 projects to date, unlocking more than $1 billion in private-sector and other public investment.
      • Every $1 million invested results in $7 million in total direct capital investments in B.C., $590,000 in tax revenue to the Province, and $5.3 million in provincial GDP during the capital construction phase.
    • Funded projects will create and protect more than 4,700 jobs throughout B.C. 

    Learn More:

    To learn about the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, such as a list of recipients and updated application deadline information, visit: 
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/economic-development/support-organizations-community-partners/rural-economic-development/manufacturing-jobs-fund

    To learn more about the economic impact of B.C.’s food and beverage manufacturing sector, visit: 
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/statistics/agriculture-and-seafood-statistics-publications

    To learn more about Clean and Competitive: A Blueprint for B.C.’s Industrial Future, visit: 
    https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Clean_and_Competitive.pdf

    Two backgrounders follow.

    Project descriptions and funding amounts for the five additional BCMJF projects in this batch are listed in Backgrounder 1.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Fertiliser predicament in the EU – E-000793/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000793/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    At the end of January, the EU imposed tariffs on nitrogen-based fertilisers from Russia to provide impetus and support to European producers. However, in the absence of Russian fertilisers, supply has decreased and prices are continuing to rise: urea has reached the EUR 525/tonne mark, and other products are following the same trend. Farmers are having to swallow these price rises and the outlook remains bleak.

    Last year, the EU imported fertilisers to the value of EUR 2.12 billion from Russia. The Commission has promised to take stepwise action between now and 2026, but farmers need alternative solutions now.

    Moreover, following the imposition of these tariffs, it is not clear how farmers will be able to access fertilisers in sufficient quantities and at affordable prices to continue producing and ensuring food security.

    • 1.Given that the new tariffs on fertilisers from Russia are not enough to protect European farmers and producers, what measures will the Commission take to prevent a price crisis and reduce the EU’s dependence on Russian imports before 2026?
    • 2.Will the Commission reduce customs duties on imports of fertilisers from other countries so as to bring down farmers’ production costs and thus avoid a(nother) agricultural crisis?

    Submitted: 20.2.2025

    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CISA Probationary Reinstatements

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    The Court issued a Temporary Restraining Order in Maryland, et al v. United States Dep’t of Agriculture, et al, No. 25-cv-00748, Docket No. 43 (D. Md.) (March 13, 2025). If you believe you are a CISA employee whose termination fell within the Court’s order and have questions regarding your reinstatement, please reach out to CISAHR@mail.cisa.dhs.gov. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Fresh protests from European farmers – E-001000/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001000/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Daniel Buda (PPE)

    Farmers in Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary and Austria started protesting against the EU’s unfair agricultural policies on 27 February 2025. European farmers, including those in Romania, have been hit by large-scale duty-free imports from Ukraine, the impact of the EU-Mercosur agreement, excessive red tape and the lack of a clear budget for the CAP for 2028-2034. Romania’s Alliance for Agriculture and Cooperation (AAC) has called for the cancellation of the EU-Mercosur agreement, the renegotiation of trade relations with Ukraine, fair agricultural policies and less over-regulation. These protests send a strong message to EU decision-makers on the need for urgent changes in agriculture.

    Since the farmers’ protests are indicative of serious problems such as the uncontrolled imports from third countries, the impact of the EU-Mercosur agreement on the competitiveness of EU produce, excessive red tape and the lack of a clear budget for the CAP for 2028-2034, what concrete measures will the Commission take to prevent a fresh agricultural crisis and ensure a fair framework for European farmers so that they can compete on equal terms and maintain the EU’s food security?

    Submitted: 7.3.2025

    Last updated: 18 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Farmer support for bovine tuberculosis and other livestock diseases – E-000135/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    For the eradication of important diseases such as bovine tuberculosis, the Commission has put in place specific rules, notably Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/689[1] that together with Regulation (EU) 2016/429[2] covers all aspects to eradicate it.

    The EU rules are based, inter alia, on scientific advice provided by the European Food Safety Authority, on decades of experience eradicating it and on the international standards of the World Organisation for Animal Health.

    Member States that are not yet free from the disease, must have in place an appropriate eradication programme approved by the Commission which must comply with the criteria set in those rules and the competent authorities need to implement it until eradication.

    This legislation also applies to and in the United Kingdom (UK) in respect of Northern Ireland (NI) in accordance with the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement. Both Ireland and the UK (NI) have an approved programme[3].

    Bovine tuberculosis outbreaks must be dealt with in line with those programmes, under the responsibility of the competent authorities in Ireland and in the UK in respect of NI to progress towards eradication, including at border areas.

    EU funding of veterinary measures for bovine tuberculosis eradication is not envisaged for the years 2025 to 2027 as financial resources are allocated to the control and eradication of other major priority animal diseases.

    Preventive measures can be supported financially through Member State Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plans[4], if programmed, including risk management and improved on-farm biosecurity investments.

    Funding of veterinary measures in the UK (NI) with EU funds or CAP support is not possible under the provisions of the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement.

    • [1] Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/689 of 17 December 2019 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards rules for surveillance, eradication programmes, and disease-free status for certain listed and emerging diseases.
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on transmissible animal diseases and amending and repealing certain acts in the area of animal health (‘Animal Health Law’).
    • [3] R eference: Annex II, Part II of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/620.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 2 December 2021 establishing rules on support for strategic plans to be drawn up by Member States under the common agricultural policy (CAP Strategic Plans) and financed by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1305/2013 and (EU) No 1307/2013, OJ L436, 6.12.2021, p.1.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Support for mastic producers – E-000481/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), through the CAP Strategic Plans (CSPs)[1], offers several interventions to help farmers to take preventive actions, in particular to prevent crises and to build medium and long-term resilience.

    To mitigate short-term effects, the available tools include direct payments to support farmers’ incomes, risk management tools to help farmers manage production risks due to adverse events, and sectoral interventions to support replanting or restocking, and investments to restore agricultural production potential.

    In response to the severe weather events that hit the EU in 2024, exceptional measures have been introduced under the Rural Development Programmes to help farmers recover from the damages suffered[2].

    The programme for the smaller Aegean islands[3] supports the production of mastic from Chios with EUR 1.12 million per year.

    The CAP also supports the bottom-up development of innovative technologies and approaches and the dissemination and exchange of good practices through the EIP-AGRI Operational Groups[4].

    The EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) provides financial assistance to Member States and accession countries facing severe natural disasters according to the specific rules laid down in Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002[5].

    Changes in climate conditions cannot be considered natural disasters. In addition, business losses cannot be compensated by the EUSF[6].

    The production of the product which is declining due to climate change can be boosted in various ways. European Regional Development Fund dedicated some EUR 1. 5 million of public funding to the establishment of the Industrial Research and Development Center for Applications of Chios mastic to apply research and innovation to improve mastic production.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?toc=OJ%3AL%3A2021%3A435%3ATOC&uri=uriserv%3AOJ.L_.2021.435.01.0001.01.ENG
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/3242/oj/eng
    • [3] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/common-agricultural-policy/market-measures/outermost-regions-and-small-aegean-islands/smaller-aegean-islands_en
    • [4] https://eu-cap-network.ec.europa.eu/index_en
    • [5] Council Regulation (EC) No 2012/2002 of 11 November 2002 establishing the European Union Solidarity Fund (OJ L 311, 14.11.2002, p. 3) as amended by Regulation (EU) No 661/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014 (OJ L 189, 27.6.2014, p. 143) and by Regulation (EU) 2020/461 of the European Parliament and the Council of 30 March 2020 (OJ L 99, 31.3.2020, p. 9). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:32002R2012
    • [6] The EUSF may cover essential emergency and recovery operations such as, for example, restoring essential infrastructure, providing temporary accommodation for the population, cleaning up and protecting cultural heritage.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ food price inflation improving, but prices skyrocket for poor nations – WorldVision

    Source: World Vision

     

    • Food price inflation for ten basic food items has improved in New Zealand from a 56% rise in 2023 to an 18% drop in 2024
    • It takes 2.4 hours to pay for a basic food basket in NZ and 1.7 hours in Australia.  This compares with 47 days in Barundi and 20 days in Sudan.
    • There is growing global inequality in food access with food price inflation disproportionately affecting low-income nations.
    • Wealthier nations need to commit to funding emergency food aid and humanitarian aid.

     

     A new report on food price inflation shows basic food items are now more affordable in New Zealand, but reveals devastating increases for some of the world’s poorest countries, including Sudan, Burundi, and Timor Leste. 

     

    World Vision’s annual Price Shocks Report examines food price inflation in 77 countries for ten common food items, including rice, bananas, chicken, tomatoes, eggs, milk, and oil, and compares these with prices a year ago.

     

    The 2025 report finds that food prices dropped 18% in New Zealand in 2024, compared with a 56% increase for the same basic food items in 2023.  The average New Zealander would have to work for 2.4 hours to pay for the ten common food items.  This compares with three hours in 2023.

     

    However, while food price inflation has improved in more wealthy nations, such as New Zealand, Australia, France, Germany, Ireland and the United States, it has dramatically worsened for many of the world’s poorest countries, especially those in sub-Saharan Africa. 

     

    In 16 countries in this year’s study, it would take more than one week of work to earn enough money to pay for World Vision’s standard food basket.

     

    These countries, such as Sudan, Chad, Somalia, and Burundi are united in facing climate and environmental extremes, along with armed conflict, political instability and massive population displacement.

     

    World Vision Head of Advocacy and Justice, Rebekah Armstrong, says the report highlights the urgent need for adequate funding for emergency food aid.

     

    “This report is released in turbulent and uncertain times and the findings emphasise the need for urgent action to sustain global food systems and prevent the agonising impacts of hunger.

     

    “This requires interventions to address the root causes of hunger, but it also demands that we fund and deliver adequate emergency food aid. 

     

    “Sadly, we know that humanitarian funding for food security programming is expected to fall far short of the target to address predicted needs in 2025, and that means millions will go hungry due a deficit of political will and resources.  It doesn’t have to be this way,” she says. 

     

    World Vision is calling on the New Zealand government to make a strong commitment to support humanitarian food aid, climate adaptation, and global hunger responses — especially within the Asia-Pacific region, where communities are particularly vulnerable to climate and economic shocks. 

     

    Armstrong says in addition to saving millions of lives, emergency food aid and cash grants for food are one of the key ways to avoid greater political unrest around the world.

     

    “Food insecurity is an indicator of wider instability, but it also contributes to political unrest, conflict, economic stagnation and delays in development.  Addressing food security is a proven method to help create a safer and more secure world for everyone,” she says. 

     

    Armstrong says in 2024, only 47% of required humanitarian food assistance was funded leaving millions without support.

     

    She says the Rohingya crisis, the ongoing war in Sudan, prolonged droughts in the Horn of Africa and cyclones in the Pacific all contribute to conditions that exacerbate hunger.

     

    “We are at a breaking point.  Governments and the global community need to fulfil the commitments they have made and act now to scale up food aid, support smallholder farmers and invest in long-term solutions to prevent millions more from falling into famine.”

     

    New Zealanders who want to support emergency food aid can give here: wvnz.org.nz/wfp

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Under the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme, a fixed amount of subsidy is provided on subsidized P&K fertilizers depending on their nutrient content

    Source: Government of India

    Under the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme, a fixed amount of subsidy is provided on subsidized P&K fertilizers depending on their nutrient content

    The Government has provided special packages on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) over and above the NBS subsidy rates on need basis to ensure smooth availability of DAP at affordable prices to farmers

    Urea is provided to the farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price; MRP of 45 kg bag of urea is Rs. 242 per bag (exclusive of charges towards neem coating and taxes as applicable) which  has remained unchanged since 01.03.2018 to till date

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 4:34PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government has implemented Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme w.e.f. 01.04.2010 for Phosphatic & Potassic (P&K) fertilizers. Under the NBS scheme, a fixed amount of subsidy, decided on an annual/bi-annual basis, is provided on subsidized P&K fertilizers depending on their nutrient content including Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP). Under NBS scheme, The P&K sector is decontrolled, fertilizer companies are allowed to fix MRP at reasonable levels which is monitored by the Government. The fertilizer companies manufacture/import fertilizers as per the market dynamics.

    Further, in order to ensure smooth availability of DAP at affordable prices to farmers, the Government has provided special packages on DAP over and above the NBS subsidy rates on need basis. Recently, in 2024-25, due to geo-political situation, adversely affecting the viability of procurement of DAP by the fertilizer companies, the Government has approved One-time special package on DAP beyond the NBS rates on actual PoS (Point of Sale) sale of DAP for the period from 01.04.2024 till 31.12.2024 @ ₹ 3500 per MT which has now been extended till 31.03.2025 to ensure sustainable availability of DAP at affordable price to the farmers. Further, the guidelines on evaluation of reasonableness of MRPs fixed by the P&K Fertilizer companies also ensure availability of fertilizers at affordable prices to farmers across the country including Odisha.

    Urea, is provided to the farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price (MRP). The MRP of 45 kg bag of urea is Rs.242 per bag (exclusive of charges towards neem coating and taxes as applicable) and the MRP has remained unchanged since 01.03.2018 to till date. The difference between the delivered cost of urea at farm gate and net market realization by the urea units is given as a subsidy to the urea manufacturer/importer by the Government of India. Accordingly, all farmers are being supplied urea at subsidized rates.

    The Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR) under the All India Coordinated Research Project on  ‘Long-term Fertilizer Experiments’ has assessed the impact of long-term use of chemical fertilizers in different soil types (fixed locations) under dominant cropping systems. Investigations carried out over five decades at fixed sites have indicated that there is no harmful effect of chemical fertilizers on soil fertility with balanced and judicious use. However, imbalanced use of chemical fertilizers coupled with low addition of organic matter over years may cause multi nutrient deficiencies vis-à-vis decline in soil health. Continuous use of nitrogenous fertilizer alone had deleterious effects on soil health and crop productivity showing deficiencies of other nutrients. The investigation over the last few decades indicated that even in the NPK fertilized system, nutritional disorders in terms of deficiency of micro and secondary nutrients surfaced after a few years affecting soil health and crop productivity. Highest decline in crop yield was observed in plots receiving only urea. In case of drip irrigation (fertigation), comparable crop yield can be obtained with less amount of water and fertilizers due to higher water and nutrient use efficiencies.

    ICAR recommends soil test based balanced and integrated nutrient management through conjunctive use of both inorganic and organic sources (manure, bio-fertilizers etc.) of plant nutrients for judicious use of chemical fertilizers and to improve soil health. The ICAR also imparts training, organizes FLDs etc. to educate farmers on all these aspects. All these measures reduce chemical fertilizer use in the country.

    Further, the Government has approved the Market Development Assistance (MDA) @ Rs. 1500/MT to promote organic fertilizers, i.e. manure produced at plants under GOBARdhan initiative covering different Biogas/CBG support schemes/programmes of stakeholder Ministries/Departments such as Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) scheme of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), ‘Waste to Energy’ programme of Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural) of Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (DDWS), etc. with total outlay of Rs. 1451.84 crore (FY 2023-24 to 2025-26), which includes a corpus of Rs. 360 crore for research gap funding, etc.

    This information was given by the Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Smt Anupriya Patel in Rajya Sabha in written reply to a question today.

    *****

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2112304) Visitor Counter : 10

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ******

     MG/KSR

    Annexure – I

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

    Area in ha

    S. NO.

    State Name

    NPOP

    PGS under PKVY

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    63,678.69

    3,60,805

    2

    Bihar

    29,062.13

    31,783

    3

    Chhattisgarh

    15,144.13

    1,01,279

    4

    Goa

    12,287.40

    15334

    5

    Gujarat

    6,80,819.99

    10000

    6

    Haryana

    2,925.33

    –

    7

    Himachal Pradesh

    9,334.28

    18748

    8

    Jharkhand

    54,408.20

    25300

    9

    Kerala

    44,263.91

    94480

    10

    Karnataka

    71,085.99

    20900

    11

    Madhya Pradesh

    11,48,236.07

    74960

    12

    Maharashtra

    10,01,080.32

    66756

    13

    Odisha

    1,81,022.28

    45800

    14

    Punjab

    11,089.41

    6981

    15

    Tamil Nadu

    42,758.27

    32940

    16

    Telangana

    84,865.16

    8100

    17

    Rajasthan

    5,80,092.22

    148500

    18

    Uttar Pradesh

    66,391.34

    171185

    19

    Uttarakhand

    1,01,820.39

    140740

    20

    West Bengal

    8,117.80

    21400

    21

    Assam

    27,079.40

    4400

    22

    Arunachal Pradesh

    16,537.53

    380

    23

    Meghalaya

    29,703.30

    900

    24

    Manipur

    32,584.50

    600

    25

    Mizoram

    14,238.30

    780

    26

    Nagaland

    16,221.56

    480

    27

    Sikkim

    75,729.78

    63000

    28

    Tripura

    20,481.36

    1000

    29

    Jammu & Kashmir

    34,746.75

    5160

    30

    Pondicherry

    21.51

    –

    31

    Delhi

    9.60

    –

    32

    Ladakh

    –

    10480

    33

    Daman & Diew

    –

    642

    34

    Dadar & Nagar Haveli

    –

    500

    35

    Andaman & Nicobar

    –

    14491

    Total

    44,75,836.90

    14,98,804

    Grand Total (NPOP + PGS)

    59,74,640.90

    Source: APEDA + PGS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NEW RESEARCH INITIATIVES BY ICAR-NIPHM

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:07PM by PIB Delhi

    National Institute of Plant Health Management(NIPHM) an autonomous organization under Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is undertaking various research initiative or technologies for improvement of Plant Protection Technology, Plant quarantine and Bio-security with special emphasis on crop-oriented Integrated Pest Management approaches for enhancing our country’s agricultural production namely validation of the protocols for the analysis of quality parameters of formulation (i) Humic acid, Fulvic acid and their derivatives and (ii) Mixed Formulations of biostimulants, Project on Biological Control of two Crop Pests (ICAR-AICRP-BC), Biodiversity of natural enemies in maize ecosystem and evaluation of NIPHM white media for the production of Nomuraea rileyi (Metarhizium rileyi) for management of Maize Fall Army Worm (Spodoptra frugiperda), Development of eco-friendly integrated stored grain pest management techniques for bulk grain storage in FCI godowns, Survey and field evaluation of Sterile Insect Technique for the management of Oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae) infesting economically important fruit crops.

    Further, NIPHM is promoting the sustainable and organic farming practices by organizing capacity building programs for officers and farmers of different states on various Plant protection related subjects namely training and demonstration of bioinputs under Soil and Root Health Management scheme to promote bio inputs, promotion of bio inputs, sustainable Plant health management etc. So far NIPHM has not entered into any formal collaboration with International agricultural research institute.

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

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

    INELIGIBLE BENEFICIARIES RECEIVING FUNDS UNDER PM-KISAN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Annexure

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

    Instalment No.

    Instalment period

    Number of beneficiaries

    Disbursed amount (In Cr.)

    1

    December, 2018 – March, 2019

    3,16,21,382

    6,324.28

    2

    April, 2019 – July, 2019

    6,00,34,808

    13,272.00

    3

    August, 2019 – November,  2019

    7,65,99,962

    17,526.92

    4

    December, 2019 – March,  2020

    8,20,91,433

    17,942.95

    5

    April, 2020 – July, 2020

    9,26,93,902

    20,989.46

    6

    August, 2020 – November,  2020

    9,72,27,173

    20,476.24

    7

    December, 2020 – March, 2021

    9,84,75,226

    20,474.95

    8

    April, 2021 – July, 2021

    9,99,15,224

    22,415.06

    9

    August, 2021- November, 2021

    10,34,45,600

    22,395.43

    10

    December, 2021- March,  2022

    10,41,67,787

    22,343.30

    11

    April, 2022 – July, 2022

    10,48,43,465

    22,617.98

    12

    August, 2022 – November, 2022

    8,57,37,576

    18,041.35

    13

    December, 2022 – March,  2023

    8,12,37,172

    17,650.07

    14

    April, 2023 – July, 2023

    8,56,78,805

    19,203.74

    15

    August, 2023 – November,  2023

    8,12,16,535

    19,596.74

    16

    December, 2023 – March,  2024

    9,04,30,715

    23,088.88

    17

    April, 2024 – July, 2024

    9,38,01,342

    21,056.75

    18

    August, 2024 – November,  2024

    9,59,26,746

    20,665.51

    19

    December, 2024 – March, 2025

    9,88,42,900

    22,270.45

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    (Release ID: 2112399)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: STUBBLE BURNING

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES OF PMFBY

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 6:00PM by PIB Delhi

    All the major work like selection of insurance model, selection of Insurance Companies through transparent bidding process, enrollment of farmers, assessment of crop yield/crop loss for calculation of admissible claims are being performed by the concerned State Government or Joint Committee of State Government officials and concerned insurance company.   Further, all the data relating to payment of claims was available with the States/UTs, therefore, they were advised to impose penalties on insurance companies themselves.  The roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder are defined in the Operational Guidelines of the scheme for the proper execution of the scheme. 

    Majority of the claims are settled  within the stipulated timelines under the Operational Guidelines of the scheme by the insurance companies.  However, during the implementation of PMFBY, some complaints were received in the past about non-payment, delayed payment or under payment of claims on account of incorrect/delayed submission of insurance proposals by banks; discrepancy in yield data & consequent disputes between State Government and insurance companies,  delay in providing State Government share of funds, non-deployment of sufficient personnel by insurance companies etc.,  which were suitably addressed as per provisions of the scheme.

    In order to rigorously monitor claim disbursal process, a dedicated module namely ‘Digiclaim Module’ has been operationalized for payment of claims from Kharif 2022 onwards. This modules gives GOI visibility of claims payable, claims paid and pending. This is used for monitoring of claims, which was not possible earlier.  It involves integration of National Crop Insurance Portal (NCIP) with Public Finance Management System (PFMS) and accounting system of Insurance Companies to provide timely & transparent processing of all claims.  W.e.f. Kharif 2024, in case payment is not made timely by Insurance Company, penalty of 12% is auto-calculated and levied through NCIP.   This is the first season for implementation of auto calculated penalty on NCIP and Department is taking all necessary steps for its enforcement.

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

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

    Source: Government of India (2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CENTRALLY ADMINISTERED AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

    CENTRALLY ADMINISTERED AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 5:58PM by PIB Delhi

    The State-wise list of centrally controlled/ administered Agricultural Universities/ colleges is placed at Annexure.

    The agriculture including agricultural education is a state subject, therefore, state governments establish agriculture universities/colleges as per their requirement.

    Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed ‘ICAR Model Act (Revised 2023)’ for Higher Agricultural Educational Institutions in India and ‘Minimum Requirements for Establishing the Agricultural Colleges’. 

    There is no such proposal to open an agricultural school in the aspirational district of Sirohi.  However, Sirohi district has 01 Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) which provides skill development trainings to farmers including local youth.

    Agricultural education, being the State subject, the State Governments have their own policies and guidelines to promote private universities and colleges.  ICAR only provides accreditation to agricultural colleges and universities based on their demand.  During last five years, number of private accredited agriculture colleges increased from 05 (2020-21) to 22 (2024-25) in the country.

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

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    Annexure

    State

    Name of Universities

    Constituent Colleges

    Central Agricultural Universities:

    Bihar

    Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar
    1. Tirhut College of Agriculture, Dholi, Muzaffarpur, Bihar
    2. College of Fisheries, Dholi, Muzaffarpur, Bihar
    3. Pandit Dindayal Upadhayay College of Horticulture and Forestry, Piprakothi, Motihari, Bihar
    4. College of Community Science, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar
    5. College of Agriculture Engineering, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar
    6. College of Basic Science and Humanities, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar
    7. Post-Graduate College of Agriculture, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar
    8. School of Agri-business and Rural Management (SAB&RM), Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar

    Manipur

    Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur
    1. College of Agriculture, Imphal, Manipur
    2. College of Food Technology, Imphal, Manipur
    3. College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Jalukie, Nagaland.
    4. College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Aizawl, Mizoram.
    5. College of Horticulture, Thenzawl, Mizoram
    6. College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, Umiam, Meghalaya
    7. College of Agriculture, Kyrdemkulai, Meghalaya
    8. College of Community Sciences, Tura, Meghalaya
    9. College of Agricultural Engg. And Post Harvest Technology, Ranipool, Sikkim
    10. College of Horticulture, Bermiok, Sikkim
    11. College of Fisheries, Lembucherra, Tripura
    12. College of Horticulture and Forestry, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh
    13. College of Agriculture, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh

    Uttar Pradesh

    Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
    1. College of Agriculture, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
    2. College of Horticulture and Forestry, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
    3. College of Fisheries, Datia, Madhya Pradesh
    4. College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Datia, Madhya Pradesh

    Deemed to be Universities:

    Delhi

    ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi

    Haryana

    ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana

    Uttar Pradesh

    ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh

    Maharashtra

    ICAR-Central Institute on Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra

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    (Release ID: 2112391)

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ADOPTION OF HYBRID TECHNOLOGIES IN CULTIVATION OF PULSES AND OILSEEDS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

    ADOPTION OF HYBRID TECHNOLOGIES IN CULTIVATION OF PULSES AND OILSEEDS

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 5:56PM by PIB Delhi

    • The Government has launched the National Mission on Edible Oils- Oilseeds (NMEO- OS), for enhancing domestic oilseed production and achieving self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in edible oils. The Mission has provision of creating 600 Value Chain Clusters across the country, collectively covering more than 10 lakh hectare annually.
    • A Consortia Research Platform on Hybrid Technology for higher productivity in selected field crops including oilseeds (Indian Mustard) and Pulses (Pigeonpea) is in operation since 2014-15 to accelerate the development of hybrids.
    • For promotion of sunflower hybrids, a scheme “Revival of sunflower cultivation project” is in operation for production and distribution of about 15000 q of certified seeds of 10 hybrids in sunflower growing regions of the country.
    • National Food Security Mission, Government of India, supported Front-Line Demonstration on Pigeonpea, sunflower and castor hybrids on farmers’ field. 
    • A network project on “Enhancing Pigeonpea production and productivity in India using short duration high yielding Pigeonpea varieties and hybrids” is operated.
    •  In order to address the issue of availability of quality seed to farmers, 34 oilseeds and 150 pulses seed hub centres are established at Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) institutes and State Agricultural Universities (SAUs).

    All India Coordinated Research Projects on different oilseeds and pulses are the nodal agencies for assessing yield performance and stability of the hybrid technology in specific zone and make final recommendation for its release at the national level. After release and notification, the hybrids/varieties are included into seed chain for seed multiplication. Simultaneously, the Front-Line Demonstrations are also conducted to demonstrate the production potential and estimating benefit cost ratio of the technology in the farmers field for first time under the supervision of the scientists.

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

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     MG/KSR

    The details of current hybrids of different oilseeds and pulse crops are given at Annexure.

    Details of current hybrids of different pulses & oilseeds

    S.No.

    Crop

    Year

    Hybrid

    Maturity days

    Productivity

    (q/ha)

    Recommended States

    1.

    Pigeonpea

    2020

    IPH 15-03

     

    153-155

    16.0 q/ha

    Punjab, Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh

    2021

    IPH 09-5

    150-155

    18.22 q/ha

    North Western Plain Zone (NWPZ)

    2024

    Pusa Arhar Hybrid 5

    163 – 170

    23.24 q/ha

    Delhi

    2.

    Sunflower

    2020

    KBSH- 78

     

    82-85

    17-23 q/ha (I) and 10-12 q/ha (R)

    Zone 5 of Karnataka

    2021

    Tilhan Tech SUNH-1

    (IIOSH-15-20)

    90–100

    20.0 q/ha, oil yield 7.46 q/ha

    Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana.

    2021

    PSH 208

    97-100

    24.2 q/ha, oil yield 10.8 q/ha

    Punjab

    2022

    KBSH-85

     

     

    90–100

    yield 18.3 q/ha, oil yield 6.62 q/ha

    Gujarat, Maharashtra and Northern Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Southern Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana

    (Karnataka Zone- 4,5,6 and 7)

    2022

    BLSFH-15004

     

     

    95–100

    19.6 q/ha, oil yield 7.38 q/ha

    Bihar, Haryana, Punjab, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Telangana

     

    Arko Provo (WBSH-2021)

    105–110

    32.5 q/ha

    West Bengal

     

    2023

    RSFH-700

    90-95

    16-17 q/ha

    Karnataka

    2023

    Sunflower COH 4 (CSH 15020)

    90-95

    21.82 q/ha (Kharif), Rabi 18.98 q/ha

    Tamil Nadu

    2024

    Tilhan Tec-SUNH-2 IIOSH-460

     

     

    90-100

    15.70 q/ha

    Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Northern Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Southern Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana and All India

    2024

    KBSH-88

     

     

    86-88

    15.59 q/ha

    Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Northern Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Southern Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana

    2024

    PDKV Suraj (PDKVSH 964)

    89-90

    18-22 q/ha

    Maharashtra

    3.

    Safflower

    2023

    ISH-402

     

     

    121-125

    23.25 q/ha,

    Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh

    4.

    Sesame

    2020

    KBSH- 78

     

    82-85

    17-23 q/ha (I) and 10-12 q/ha

    Zone 5 of Karnataka

    2021

    Tilhan Tech SUNH-1

    (IIOSH-15-20)

    90-100

    20.0 q/ha, oil yield 7.46 q/ha

    Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana.

    2021

    PSH 2080

     

    97-100

    24.2 q/ha, oil yield 10.8 q/ha

    Punjab

     

    2022

    KBSH-85

     

     

    90-100

    18.3 q/ha, oil yield 6.62 q/ha

    Gujarat, Maharashtra and Northern Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Southern Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana

    (Karnataka Zone- 4,5,6 and 7)

    2022

    BLSFH-15004

     

     

    95-100

    19.6 q/ha, oil yield 7.38 q/ha

    Bihar, Haryana, Punjab, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Telangana

    2022

    Arko Provo (WBSH-2021)

    105-110

    32.5 q/ha

    West Bengal

     

    2023

    RSFH-700

    90-95

    16-17 q/ha,

    Karnataka

     

    2023

    Sunflower COH 4 (CSH 15020)

     

    90-95

    21.82 q/ha (Kharif), Rabi 18.98 q/ha

    Tamil Nadu

     

    2024

    Tilhan Tec-SUNH-2 IIOSH-460

     

     

    90-100

    15.70 q/ha

    Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Northern Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Southern Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana and All India

    2024

    KBSH-88

     

     

    88-90

    15.59 q/ha

    Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Northern Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Southern Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana

    2024

    PDKV Suraj (PDKVSH 964)

    89-90

    18-22 q/ha

    Maharashtra

     

    5.

    Mustard

    2021

    SVJH-108

     

     

    140-145

    2.4 t/ha, oil content 41.3%, black and bold seed (6.1 g/1000 seed)

    Haryana (irrigated conditions under high and low fertility)

     

    2021

    RCH 1

     

     

    149-155

    26.66 q/ha, oil yield 1040 kg/ha, oil content 39.5%

    Jammu, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and northern Rajasthan.

    2021

    PHR 126

    145-149

    22. 7 q/ha

    Punjab

     

    2024

    PA 5210 (5 I J 1110)

    130-135

    23-30 q/ha

    Rajasthan

    Gobhi Sarson

    2021

    PGSH 1699

     

     

     

    168-170

    15.81 q/ha, oil yield 642 kg/ha, oil content 41.92%, maturity 168 days, low erucic acid (1.7%) and low glucosinolate (16.87 µmoles/g)

     

    Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab.

     

     

    2021

    PGSH 1707

    162-165

    21.93 q/ha

    Punjab

     

    6.

    Castor

    2020

    Gujarat Castor Hybrid 10 (GCH 10: Charutar Gold) (SCH 53)

    89-112

    38.98 q/ha

    Gujarat

     

     

     

    RHC-2 (Rajasthan Hybrid Castor-2)

    55-60

    33.78 q/ha

    Rajasthan

     

     

    ******

    (Release ID: 2112390)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FARM DISTRESS INDEX

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 MAR 2025 5:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Systemic assessment of Farmers’ Distress Index (FDI) is not available for the whole country. However, a pilot study “Agrarian Distress and PM Fasal Bima Yojana: An Analysis of Rainfed Agriculture” was conducted to help farmers of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh during 2020-21 and 2021-22.  FDI covers multiple causes of distress ranging from climate variability to price volatility and the low risk-bearing ability of farmers etc.

    The Multidimensional FDI was studied at sub-district level with an aim to develop an early warning system for farm distress. The main objective of FDI was to develop a user-friendly tool designed to forewarn different stakeholders and provide policy support about the severity of farmer distress based on seven key parameters viz., exposure to risk, adaptive capacity, sensitivity, mitigation and adaptation strategies, triggers, psychological factors and impacts (Annexure). It enables timely preventive action by identifying area. The FDI also proposes a scalable framework for implementation ensuring that government support reaches the most affected regions efficiently.

    The FDI is designed to develop a forewarning system to take preventive measures to identify farmer distress, providing alerts three months in advance. FDI can be used as a planning tool to address the causes of farmers’ distress and also evolve measures to tackle those causes. It targets to recommend a location-specific distress management package based on various dimensions of the FDI. FDI can be used to categorize and prioritize action points by the government and the local community to reduce farmers’ distress.

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

    ******

     MG/KSR

    ANNEXURE

     

    Explanation of indicators used in FDI

    Pillars

    Indicator-1

    Indicator-2

    Indicator-3

    Exposure

    Loss due to pest/diseases (%)

    Loss due to floods/cyclones (%)

    Loss due to droughts (%)

    Adaptive capacity

    Education of the head of household (years)

    Total owned land (acre)

    Leased-in land (acre)

    Sensitivity

    Irrigated area (% of total area)

    Indebtedness (Rs)

    SC/ST community and number of children in household

    Adaptation

    Non-crop income (as % of total household income)

    Number of government schemes household benefited (in current year)

    Household savings (Rs.)

    Trigger

    Informal credit (Rs)

    Pressure from repayment of loans (yes/no)

    Lack of cash-in-hand to meet immediate farm expenses (yes/no)

    Psychological

    Feeling of social isolation (yes/no)

    Unable to fulfil family obligations (yes/no)

    Addicted to alcohol (yes/no)

    Impact

    Increased indebtedness (Yes/No)

    More participation in public works (MGNREGA) (yes/no)

    Reduced food consumption (yes/no)

     

    ******

    (Release ID: 2112387) Visitor Counter : 75

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –