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Category: Farming

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Transnational organised crime: ‘It’s time we pull together to push back’

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Law and Crime Prevention

    Marking the inaugural International Day for the Prevention of and Fight against All Forms of Transnational Organised Crime on Friday, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has called for unified global efforts to counter these pervasive threats.

    Proclaimed by the General Assembly in March 2024, the observance honours victims of organised crime – including law enforcement and judicial personnel who have lost their lives in pursuit of justice.

    The inaugural theme: Organised crime steals, corrupts and kills. It’s time we pull together to push back, underscores the urgency of collective action.

    Speaking to UN News, Candice Welsch, UNODC Regional Representative for the Andean Region and southernmost areas of South America, emphasised the global nature of the threat: “Almost all organised crime is transnational, it does not take place within a single country, but often crosses borders within regions and even beyond.”  

    “Therefore, this UN observance aims at boosting action by governments, the private sector, civil society and the public,” she said.  

    Pillar of international cooperation       

    The UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime adopted in 2000 and ratified by 192 States, serves as the cornerstone of UNODC’s efforts to combat and eventually eliminate the scourge of transnational organised crime.

    “We are working hard to strengthen cooperation between countries so that they can share information and intelligence between police forces, or so that border agencies and prosecutors can conduct joint operations,” said Ms. Welsch.  

    UNODC’s efforts include bolstering local, national and international capacities to better understand and combat these challenges.

    UN Video | United Nations takes on organized crime

    Cocaine, deforestation, community impact

    In the Andean region, Colombia and Ecuador face significant challenges with transnational criminal groups. Colombia’s coca cultivation reached 253,000 hectares in 2023, yielding an estimated 2,664 metric tons of cocaine in 2022, according to UNODC data.

    However, the issue is not confined to drug trafficking. Illegal mining, deforestation and wildlife trafficking – particularly in the Galapagos Islands – are also on the rise.

    These activities disrupt security for communities, exacerbate gang violence and contribute to high homicide rates, impacting indigenous communities and young people who face recruitment risks. Migrant flows through the region also make vulnerable populations susceptible to human trafficking and other abuses.

    To address these challenges, UNODC supports alternative development programmes for farmers reliant on coca cultivation. These initiatives promote legal crops such as coffee, cocoa, vanilla and sacha inchi, a nutrient-rich Amazonian plant.

    “What we are trying to do with alternative development programmes is to offer these communities ways to move towards licit economies and a more secure future,” said Ms. Welsch.

    UN News / David Mottershead

    A former opium poppy farmer cultivating tomatoes in Nangarhar province, Afghanistan. (file)

    Opium resurgence in Afghanistan

    Despite a 2022 Taliban ban that initially reduced opium cultivation by 95 per cent, 2024 saw a 19 per cent resurgence driven by economic hardship and rising prices.

    Since 2016, UNODC has aided over 85,000 households through alternative development initiatives, such as poultry farming projects that provide both food security and income generation for families affected by drugs.

    Southeast Asia: The Golden Triangle’s drug economy

    Myanmar has surpassed Afghanistan as the world’s leading opium producer, with production rising 36 per cent in 2023.

    Collaborating on security issues can be challenging for states, but the UN plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue
    – Jeremy Douglas, UNODC

    The country also leads global methamphetamine production, which has become the dominant drug according to UNODC data, with seizures quadrupling between 2013 and 2022.

    Furthermore, criminal groups in the Golden Triangle – Myanmar, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and Thailand – have expanded into online scams, wildlife trafficking, money laundering and human trafficking.

    In response, UNODC has promoted regional cooperation through the establishment of approximately 120 border liaison offices to facilitate intelligence sharing and coordinated action.

    “Collaborating on security issues can be challenging for States, but the UN plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue,” said Jeremy Douglas, former UNODC Regional Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific and now Chief of Staff and Strategy Advisor to the Executive Director.

    UN News/Daniel Dickinson

    Goods being loaded onto a boat in Lao People’s Democratic Republic to be transported across the Mekong river to Thailand. (file)

    Global drug crisis

    The impact of transnational crime extends far beyond producer countries.

    New synthetic drugs are on the rise, particularly in North America, which faces a fentanyl crisis, as well as in areas of Asia and Africa.

    Western and Central European countries, particularly those with a North Sea coastline, also face considerable challenges, with their ports becoming major entry points for cocaine.

    In the Sahel, illicit gold and fuel trafficking undermine governance and security and complicates sustainable development, depriving the nation of critical income.

    Wildlife crimes, gold smuggling, and organised fraud are just a few examples of how these crimes converge, exploiting fragile ecosystems and vulnerable communities worldwide.

    Nevertheless, UNODC remains committed to supporting global efforts.

    People-centred approach

    “Despite these challenges, there is hope,” Ms. Welsch said.

    She highlighted the importance of public awareness campaigns targeting youth and community programmes involving parents and teachers, as well as the need to ensure that everyone who requires treatment for drug abuse can access it.

    “The only way to overcome global problems is to galvanise international action. That is why UNODC is joining forces with partners to help secure our common future,” she concluded.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Western Senators  Warn Trump’s Illegal Funding Freeze Threatens Wildfire Mitigation Efforts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
    Stop-work orders for wildfire risk reduction projects on public lands undermine community preparedness
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, Michael Bennet, and 10 of their Senate colleagues from Western states wrote a letter to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and Acting Agriculture Secretary Gary Washington to raise the alarm about wildfire risk reduction projects that remove hazardous fuels on Bureau of Land Management lands, and to express concerns about the potential for a future freeze at the U.S. Forest Service.
    “Catastrophic wildfires across the United States are an ongoing national crisis and responding to them must be a national priority. These stop work orders and funding freezes jeopardize communities that depend on a robust federal response to our wildfire crisis – and also jeopardize small businesses, often in frontier and rural communities, that are contracted to do the work on the ground to reduce hazardous fuels,” wrote the senators.
    This follows President Trump’s illegal executive orders cutting federal funds to mitigate and fight wildfires and comes as communities in Colorado and nationwide prepare for wildfire season. Hazardous fuel removal projects cut off fuel to wildfires which increases ecosystem resilience – protecting firefighters and civilians alike. Delaying these treatments even for a short period can mean missing out on the right seasonal and weather conditions for safe removal. 
    The full text of the letter can be found HERE or below:
    Dear Secretary Burgum and Acting Secretary Washington,
    We are writing with great concern about reports from our constituents that the Bureau of Land Management has issued stop work orders for hazardous fuels reduction projects. We are further concerned that fuels projects overseen by the U.S. Forest Service will be next. These projects are integral to increased safety and resiliency and any delay in implementation puts those communities at greater risk. We urge you to immediately rescind these stop work orders, halt any further stop work orders or funding freezes, and instead work with the tools and funds Congress has provided to better safeguard our communities from the serious risk of catastrophic wildfire.
    These projects are part of the Wildfire Crisis Strategy, funded by theInfrastructure and Investment in Jobs Act (IIJA) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Investing in fuels reduction treatments is a primary recommendation in the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission Report, a nonpartisan strategy document to tackle the myriad challenges associated with wildfire across the country. We also note with alarm that this report was removed from federal websites this week.
    In 2022, the Forest Service identified high-risk firesheds across the country to be prioritized for hazardous fuels reduction work through the Wildlife Crisis Strategy and Implementation Plan. The Forest Service chose 10 high-priority landscapes with the enactment of IIJA and an additional 11 landscapes with the enactment of IRA – each of these landscapes require significant investment to reduce wildfire risk. These 21 landscapes were awarded a total of $1.73 billion to protect at-risk communities, critical infrastructure, public water sources, and adjacent Tribal lands in 10 Western states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. The Bureau of Land Management, Forest Service, States, Tribes, local stakeholders, and small businesses have been working together over the last three years to implement fuels reduction on these landscapes.
    Catastrophic wildfires across the United States are an ongoing national crisis and responding to them must be a national priority. These stop work orders and funding freezes jeopardize communities that depend on a robust federal response to our wildfire crisis – and also jeopardize small businesses, often in frontier and rural communities, that are contracted to do the work on the ground to reduce hazardous fuels. 
    In addition to endangering communities, the President’s Executive Orders freezing funding are flagrantly illegal. The Government Accountability Office, the Department of Justice Office of Legal Counsel (including in an opinion written by future Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, William H. Rehnquist), and the Supreme Court of the United States have all disavowed the notion of some “inherent Presidential power to impound,” as some in the Administration, as well as pending Administration nominees, have tried to argue without legal or textual basis.
    Not only does the Constitution vest the power of the purse with Congress and provide no power to the President to impound funds, but there have been several bedrock fiscal statutes enacted to protect Congress’ constitutional power of the purse and prevent unlawful executive overreach, including the Antideficiency Act and the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 (ICA). The ICA prohibits any action or inaction that precludes Federal funds from being obligated or spent, either temporarily or permanently, without following the strictly circumscribed requirements of that law, which have not been honored in this instance.
    As we’ve seen with the recent fires surrounding Los Angeles, wildfire does not distinguish between homes and trees. But we do have ways to mitigate the risk. One of the most effective strategies to reduce that risk is to reduce the hazardous natural fuels that surround our communities. These fuels reduction projects save lives and property, reduce the danger to firefighters, and return our lands to a fire-adapted ecosystem that can better withstand the threat to human life, communities, infrastructure, and property.   
    By terminating or even pausing these projects, all of the progress made at protecting these communities is at risk. We are imploring you to rescind the order to stop work on these hazardous fuels reduction efforts, as well as any other wildland fire management programs that are working to reduce risk and safeguard communities from catastrophic wildfire.
    We hope to work with you to combat the scourge of catastrophic wildfire.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Rise in Afghan opium cultivation reflects economic hardship, despite Taliban ban

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    By Vibhu Mishra

    Law and Crime Prevention

    Opium cultivation in Afghanistan spiked by 19 per cent in 2024, covering an estimated 12,800 hectares despite a ban imposed by the Taliban, a report released on Wednesday by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has revealed.

    The rebound follows a massive 95 per cent decrease in 2023, when the ban nearly eliminated poppy production nationwide, leading to a severe decline in Afghanistan’s opium output.

    However, while cultivation has increased, the current levels remain substantially lower than in 2022, which saw 232,000 hectares under poppy cultivation.

    UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly emphasized the urgency of sustainable alternatives for Afghan farmers, given their pressing challenges.

    “With opium cultivation remaining at a low level in Afghanistan, we have the opportunity and responsibility to support Afghan farmers to develop sustainable sources of income free from illicit markets,” she said.

    “The women and men of Afghanistan continue to face dire financial and humanitarian challenges, and alternative livelihoods are urgently needed.”

    Shift in cultivation patterns

    The UNODC report pointed to a notable geographic shift in cultivation patterns. While southwest Afghanistan has traditionally been the country’s opium hub, 59 per cent of opium cultivation this year has taken place in provinces in the northeast.  

    This represents a nearly four-fold increase in the region compared to last year, suggesting the potential for both adaptive planting practices and the influence of market pressures, as rural communities seek alternatives amidst strict enforcement of the opium ban.

    A factor behind the resurgence in opium cultivation could be market dynamics combined with hardships farmers face, according to UNODC. Dry opium prices stand at approximately $730 per kilogramme in the first half of 2024, a steep increase from pre-ban levels, which averaged around $100 per kilo.  

    “The high prices and dwindling opium stocks may encourage farmers to flout the ban, particularly in areas outside of traditional cultivation centres, including neighbouring countries,” UNODC said.

    Farmers left without sustainable alternatives faced a more precarious financial situation, underscoring the need for other income streams so they can become resilient against returning to poppy cultivation in the future, it added.

    Need for support

    Roza Otunbayeva, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan and head of the UN Assistance Mission in the country (UNAMA), acknowledged both the success in reducing opium output and the ongoing hardship faced by Afghan farmers.

    “This is important further evidence that opium cultivation has indeed been reduced, and this will be welcomed by Afghanistan’s neighbours, the region and the world,” she said.

    She also cautioned however that rural Afghan communities have lost a vital income source and urgently require international assistance to ensure a sustainable shift away from opium production.  

    “If we want this transition to be sustainable…they desperately need international support.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Government’s crackdown on rogue turf businesses to stop fire ants pays off

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 12 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW

    Two Queensland businesses have been separately convicted in the NSW Local Court of breaching biosecurity regulations designed to protect NSW from red imported fire ants and in total ordered to pay $60,000.

    These successful prosecutions highlight the effectiveness of the Minns Labor Government’s surveillance and compliance activities in preventing fire ants into the state.

    Both businesses illegally moved turf, soil, turf underlay and compost from the Queensland fire ant infested area into NSW.

    Since being elected in 2023 the NSW Government has made biosecurity a priority and fighting fire ants a top order.

    This commitment to fight fire ants entering NSW was demonstrated by raising the funds to address the menace of the fire ants from the former Government’s low $15 million annually, to $95 million over four years, only a few months after the 2023 election.

    To strengthen the fight against fire ants entering NSW in mid-November last year, the NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty took the unprecedented step of banning the movement of any turf from the Queensland fire ant infested area into NSW.

    These recent successful prosecutions demonstrate that the Government’s crackdown on rogue businesses potentially spreading fire ants is working and is now sending a message.

    The importance of movement controls and the ability of the Minns Government’s restructured NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) to trace carrier movements back to their point of origin is producing successful prosecutions.

    The first landscaping supply business was convicted on the 29 January and the second on Friday 7 February.

    The first business, Brytarbri Pty Ltd trading as Allenview Turf, was convicted of nine offences after moving soil, turf underlay and compost into NSW from the Queensland fire ant infested area without the required biosecurity certificates.

    The second business, Marlyn Compost, was convicted of 20 offences under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 for moving turf from the Queensland fire ant infested area into NSW without certificates.

    Early detection surveillance is continuing across NSW’s border state agencies with detection cameras and operations with Police and Department of Primary Industries and Regional NSW teams working together as exemplified by Operation Victa.

    So far four waves of Operation Victa have resulted in eight penalty notices issued and three warnings after stopping 352 vehicles, 156 of which were from fire ant infested areas, and ordering 12 vehicles back to Queensland, due to not meeting certification requirements.

    In addition, fire ant sniffer dogs are on patrol in Kyogle and Tweed Valley sites to monitor trucks, landscaping sites and target properties.

    The NSW Government’s fire ant team has completed the following since December 2023:

    • Checked 1,366 voluntary community reports of potential fire ant sightings
    • Received 12,750 Record of Movement declarations from businesses
    • Undertaken with 1,613 surveillance events

    NSW Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

    “The Minns Labor Government is serious in stopping fire ants getting into NSW and in the three instances when they have got through the nets we have eradicated them quickly.

    “There will be no sympathy for a business who flouts our biosecurity controls and threatens our state’s land, homes and farms with fire ants. The full force of the law will be instigated to show this is very serious and will not be tolerated.

    “I urge everyone to do the right thing and comply with our biosecurity requirements to protect NSW from fire ants, or if you know someone is flouting the controls please let us know.

    “We are applying monitoring, CCTV, police, sniffer dogs, controls and border checks to address the fire ant situation as well as supporting the Queensland Government eradicate their infestation.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Urges Opposition to Tulsi Gabbard; Cites Lack of Experience, Questionable Judgement, Capacity to Do the Job 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) tonight took to the Senate floor to speak on his opposition to Tulsi Gabbard, President Trump’s pick to serve as Director of National Intelligence (DNI). Senator Welch expressed concerns about Gabbard’s judgment, integrity, and character, and how her lack of independent thought and devotion to President Trump could endanger national security. 
    “On the basis of lack of experience, of questionable judgment, and lack of confidence that I think many of us have in the capacity of this person to be the Director of National Intelligence, I urge that we vote no on her nomination,” said Senator Welch. 
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 
    Senator Welch’s Committee and Subcommittee Assignments for the 119th Congress include:  
    Senate Committee on Finance  
    Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry 
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit  
    Senate Committee on the Judiciary 
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on the Constitution  
    Senate Committee on Rules & Administration 
    Senator Peter Welch has spent the bulk of his life working to improve the lives of folks who too often get left behind. After fighting housing discrimination in Chicago, he enrolled in law school at the UC-Berkeley, and later settled in White River Junction, Vermont, where he worked as a public defender before founding a small law practice. He was first elected to represent Windsor County in the Vermont Senate in 1980. Peter was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives where he served for 16 years before being elected to the Senate in 2022. In the Senate, he’s focused on lowering costs for Vermonters, making Washington work better for Vermont, and protecting civil rights and democracy in America and abroad. 
    Learn more about his work by visiting his website or by following him on social media. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: At Davos, Guterres slams backsliding on climate commitments

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    UN Affairs

    The world’s political and business elite present in Davos on Wednesday faced an uncompromising address from UN chief António Guterres as he rounded on a lack of multilateral collaboration in an “increasingly rudderless world” at risk from two existential dangers: climate change and unregulated Artificial Intelligence (AI).

    Mr. Guterres was speaking at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum, the exclusive event held high in the Swiss Alps where senior politicians, Heads of State and CEOs of some of the world’s biggest and most influential companies rub shoulders.

    The UN Secretary-General took aim at the theme of this year’s meeting, Collaboration for the Intelligent Age, maintaining that there has been scant proof of either collaboration or intelligence and plenty of evidence that many of the world’s problems are worsening, from conflicts to inequality and assaults on human rights.

    Nuclear war is no longer the only existential threat to humanity, he said, pointing to the climate crisis and the “ungoverned expansion” of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

    ‘Fossil fuel addiction’

    Likening fossil fuel addiction to Frankenstein’s monster – “sparing nothing and no one” – the Secretary-General noted the irony that 13 of the world’s biggest ports for oil supertankers are set to be overwhelmed by rising sea levels, a consequence of rising temperatures and sea ice melt, caused overwhelmingly by burning coal, crude oil and natural gas.

    A number of financial institutions and industries are backtracking on climate commitments, noted Mr. Guterres.

    A move that is, he said “short-sighted, and paradoxically, it is selfish and also self-defeating. You are on the wrong side of history. You are on the wrong side of science. And you are on the wrong side of consumers who are looking for more sustainability, not less.”

    Looking ahead to the UN Climate Conference (COP30) in Brazil at the end of the year, the UN chief reminded world leaders that they must keep their promise to produce new, economy-wide national climate action plans well before the event.

    Developing countries need a “surge in finance” for climate action, he declared, urging not just governments but all businesses and financial institutions to create robust and accountable transition plans.

    AI’s untold promise 

    The next existential threat, AI, is a double-edged sword, Mr. Guterres continued, as it is already revolutionizing learning, diagnosing illnesses, helping farmers to increase their yields and improving the targeting of aid.

    But it comes with profound risks if it is left ungoverned: it can disrupt economies, undermine trust in institutions and deepen inequalities, the Secretary-General warned.

    The Global Digital Compact – part of the Pact for the Future adopted by UN Member States last September – offers a “roadmap to harness the immense potential of digital technology and close digital divides” with a shared vision of AI serving humanity, not the other way around.

    Despite the challenges, the UN will never halt its demand for peace grounded in the UN Charter, international law and the principles of sovereignty, political independence and the territorial integrity of States, he said.

    Reforming institutions, from the global financial architecture to the UN Security Council, is, the UN chief asserted, a necessity because systems of governance are often ill-equipped to deal with today’s challenges. But achieving these essential changes – which world leaders committed to at last September’s Summit of the Future – will only be possible with political will, he said, cautioning: “I am not convinced leaders get it.”

    The Secretary-General concluded his remarks with a return to the theme of this year’s Davos event, appealing to the global community to face these existential challenges head on and work as one. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Missouri Man Sentenced to 108 Months in Prison for $3 Million Pandemic Fraud, Witness Tampering, Clean Air Act Violations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk on Tuesday sentenced a Farmington, Missouri business owner who committed bank fraud, Clean Air Act violations and witness tampering to 108 months in prison.

    Judge Pitlyk also ordered Christopher Lee Carroll, 55, to pay restitution of $3 million.

    Carroll was convicted by a jury in August of three counts of bank fraud, three counts of making false statements to a financial institution, one count of conspiracy to violate the Clean Air Act, 13 violations of the Clean Air Act and two counts of threatening a witness.

    Evidence and testimony at trial showed that Carroll and his business partner, George Reed, were owners of a time share exit company called Square One Group LLC. In April of 2020, they submitted a false and fraudulent application for a $1.2 million Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan. The loan application falsely stated that the spouses of Reed and Carroll owned the company in order to conceal Carroll’s status as a paroled felon, which would have precluded his company from receiving PPP funds. Carroll also used his wife’s name to avoid any potential liability for the fraud, a sentencing memo filed by prosecutors says.

    The PPP loan was supposed to help save businesses and jobs, but Carroll did not use the money to pay dozens of employees who were out of work or keep paying for health insurance for 17 of those employees. Instead, he used it to start a trucking company, Whiskey Dix Big Truck Repair LLC. Carroll and Reed then applied for loan forgiveness, falsely claiming that they’d spent the money on payroll and other permitted expenses.

    Reed and Carroll later sought a second loan of more than $1.6 million, taking a total of $660,000 in “owner draws” from the company after the loan was approved, the evidence showed.

    The Clean Air Act violations relate to emissions control equipment designed to reduce pollutants. Carroll had that equipment taken off Whiskey Dix’s fleet of diesel trucks. Carroll asked one employee to “take the fall” for his crimes and told another that he would stop paying for the employee’s lawyer if he talked to federal agents, evidence and testimony showed. Carroll did stop paying for the lawyer.

    Carroll is a “consummate fraudster,” the government sentencing memo says, who ran a company that preyed on elderly victims before committing the pandemic loan fraud and other crimes. Carroll is also “a dangerous, violent person,” the memo says, citing prior convictions including felonious restraint and forcible sodomy and evidence of Carroll’s participation in a murder-for-hire scheme.

    “This prosecution reinforces our office’s priority of going after the worst pandemic fraudsters,” said U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming. “People like Christopher Carroll took advantage of a once-in-a-generation crisis to enrich themselves at the expense of struggling Americans.  This office will continue to make sure that defendants like Carroll are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “This latest conviction is the tip of the iceberg for this career criminal,” said FBI St. Louis Special Agent in Charge Ashley Johnson. “In addition to defrauding the taxpayer-funded loan program in this latest case, Chris Carroll bailed on customers to line his own pockets with the millions of dollars they paid him to help exit timeshares. Furthermore, Carroll’s violent criminal history includes being a convicted sex offender for forcible sodomy.”

    Whiskey Dix was also found guilty of 16 Clean Air Act violations. Judge Pitlyk sentenced the company to three years of probation.

    Reed, now 70, pleaded guilty to bank fraud in September of 2022 and admitted fraudulently applying for, obtaining and using the two PPP loans. Reed admitted as part of his guilty plea that the company failed to pay a “significant number” of employees, despite the PPP loans, and that Carroll terminated the health insurance benefits of at least 17 employees. Reed was sentenced last month to time served and ordered to pay $3 million in restitution.

    The FBI and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Criminal Investigation Division investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gwendolyn Carroll and Kyle Bateman prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Praises President Trump for Making Tariffs Great Again

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) delivered a floor speech praising President Donald Trump’s recent implementation of reciprocal tariffs to ensure fairness and bolster our national security.
    Read the speech below or watch the full speech here.

    “I come to the floor today to talk to you about President Trump’s tariffs. The media is in full meltdown. They’re in a full meltdown mode after President Trump imposed duties and retaliatory tariffs this week on countries that have basically been ripping the United States of America off, and they’ve been doing it for decades. Apparently, globalists and Democrats are just fine with other countries imposing tariffs on the United States. But when it comes to President Trump trying to equalize it up, establish a level playing field for domestic producers, well, that’s a bridge too far.
    If they have been paying attention to President Trump, they should [not be] remotely surprised. He campaigned on this platform three times and has been crystal clear on his intentions. Now, he is following through on his campaign promises. But in the corporate media, it seems to still be confused about all these tariffs. So, let me spell it out.
    President Trump’s view on tariffs [are both] a negotiating tool to get other countries to do a few things that we ask them to do, a way to boost American manufacturing, and put American workers and businesses first, not last. President Trump has his work cut out for him after the disastrous four years for our small businesses and our corporations under the Biden administration. The Biden administration made it clear to our friends and foes alike that the globalist agenda would take precedent over the safety and well-being [of] the American people. It’s mind boggling. Thankfully, those days are over.
    [The] American people gave President Donald J. Trump a clear mandate to restore our country’s superpower status and [to] put all Americans first, all businesses first. Everybody that does something in this country. And that starts, number one, with securing our borders. Like I’ve said many times, if you don’t have a border, you don’t have a country. And we have really struggled in the last four years. That is changing.
    That’s why the Master Negotiator in Chief, President Donald Trump, threatened to impose 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada [in] just the last couple of weeks. Over the last four years, the Mexican government just basically turned a blind eye while caravans of illegal aliens overrun our borders—coming from Mexico, coming from Central America, all over the world—just overrunning our country. Thousands of women and children were trafficked, raped along the way. Drug cartels made an absolute fortune—absolute fortune. Not just with drugs, by the way, but for the payments of these illegals coming all the way through either Central America or South America to United States with a big, basically, tariff of their own, charging these people to come to the United States. Lawlessness had become the status quo under President Biden. Nobody cared. Democrats in this room, they didn’t care. They didn’t care what was going on. Let’s just let them all come in. Let’s let the drugs come in. We lose 300 people pretty much every few days to illegal drugs in this country with overdoses. But let’s [not] worry about that. Let’s just worry about controlling our country the way they wanted to. Well, it’s been a disaster.
    Mexico showed zero signs of willingness to negotiate when President Trump took office. When he did take office [on] January 20th, they woke up real quick. President Trump correctly understands that Mexico’s economy is heavily dependent on the United States of America and the citizens of this country. In fact, more than 80% of Mexico’s exports come to the United States. 80% come here. And the American citizens buy those products […] Mexico’s economy would almost instantly feel the effects of a 25% tariff, leaving Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum no choice—no choice—but to come to the negotiating table under the master negotiator Donald Trump.
    So that’s why he uses tariffs: to get his point across because people across the world take us for granted. As a result, within hours of President Trump’s announcement of the tariffs, Mexico caved. They saw real quick. Obviously, they’re not stupid. They agreed to help the United States secure the border and crack down on the cartels and the illegal drugs coming in—almost immediately. […] Our neighbor to the North also caved to President Trump after a 25% tariff was threatened on Canada. Not only are illicit drugs like fentanyl coming into our country from Mexico, but there are also about [a] 2000% increase in drugs coming across the border in 2023 and 2024 from Canada. A 2000% increase. In the last fiscal year alone, enough fentanyl was seized at the northern border to kill 9.8 million Americans. And to me, that would be a very serious problem. But do you think that Democrats cared? Nope. There was no action at all by the Biden administration on Canada. No action on Mexico. But thanks [to] President Trump’s leadership, our North American neighbors, from the North and South, are making changes now daily that will protect American citizens from deadly drugs, criminals, and human traffickers. The number one job of the President of the United States to protect the people in this country first, and that’s what President Trump’s doing.
    In addition to using tariffs as a negotiating tool, President Trump also views tariffs as a way to write the wrongs of past, ineffective trade deals. That’s why this week he’s imposing a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, including those of Canada and Mexico. Contrary to what the media is telling you, this isn’t unprecedented. It’s not unusual. In fact, President Trump has helped shine a light on the fact that US exporters face higher tariffs [….] more than two-thirds of the time. We pay more tariffs than anybody. For example, among our major trading partners, [China applies higher tariffs on 85% of U.S. products and India on 90% of U.S. products]. Just think about that. We are paying tariffs on things coming in[to] this country, but when we send things out, we get the heck tariffed out of us from other countries. It’s not fair trade.
    These exports, imbalances, don’t just impact bottom lines, they also discourage domestic production. We have got to produce more in this country. We have got to build more things in this country, and that’s what President Trump’s trying to do. If we don’t cut back on spending and start producing more in this country, this will not be the United States of America much longer because we will be bankrupt. And we’ll be reporting to somebody like China who is buying our treasury bills right and left…or they were. 
    One report conducted by the Department of Commerce in the first Trump administration found that excess production capacity, particularly China, has been a major factor in the decline of domestic aluminum production. Basically, we’re getting overwhelmed by aluminum from China that’s not near as good as what we make in this country.
    President Trump built one of the strongest economies in modern history in his first term. Modern history. But the democrats failed to know that. So, they wanted to change it. And did they ever. [They] almost destroyed our economy. Jobs and wages were up when President Trump was in, inflation was down. Americans had more money in their pocket. And thanks to President Trump’s strategic tariffs, along with the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, companies were reshoring businesses back in the United States right and left. They were coming back because they could make profit. And that’s what it’s all about when you have a corporation. You gotta make a profit. And President Trump was able to, because of tariffs, make more money for manufacturing. […]
    You had companies like Ford canceling plans to build in Mexico, back in President Trump’s first term, and instead opening one in Michigan. This turned out to be extremely important when COVID hit and we were forced to rely on goods manufactured right here in the United States. We found out pretty quick, just in [pharmaceutical] drugs alone, we make very little drugs in the United States. They’re made in India and China. They’ve got to come back here. We have to be self-sustaining.
    Whether it’s our healthcare technologies, agriculture products, or steel, and aluminum, there’s no reason for us to depend on other countries. We are the number one country in this world, have been, and will be in the future in manufacturing production. America has some of the best and brightest manufacturers. Best and brightest producers, farmers, and businesses. We take second to none. And from a national security perspective, it is dangerous to be reliant on other countries who may not have the best interests of the United States in mind. You can’t blame them. They’re looking out for themselves first. Well, we need to do the same thing.
    Not to mention the fact that US produces the cleanest steel in the world. You’d think the Democrats and the Climate Cult would at least be happy about that. Think about that. You know, President Trump just put tariffs on steel and aluminum. A lot of the steel and aluminum come in and, because of how they make it, is some of the dirtiest in the world. We make the cleanest, and why in the world would we want to import something that is going to be detrimental to our country? […]
    The tariffs being imposed this week are an important step in President Trump’s plan to restore fairness to trade, boost domestic manufacturing, and put consumers and producers first. It’s about time. Three weeks into his presidency, President Trump is keeping his promises. President Trump’s strategic tariffs will strengthen and revitalize our nation’s economy, stop the flow of illicit drugs and illegal immigration, and make sure our trade deals are fair to both taxpayers and American manufacturers. America first! President Trump is utilizing every tool at his disposal as we speak, including tariffs, to usher in the Golden Age of the American Economy. We have to make that change. If we don’t, we will not survive as the number one country in the world. We will not regain that status and we will be losing our national security.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville in OutKick: Defending and Protecting Women and Girls’ Sports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    “Congress needs to act on this to make sure the next Democrat administration can’t take the same steps to destroy Title IX that the Biden administration took”
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) penned an op-ed in OutKick urging the Senate to pass his legislation to make President Trump’s Executive Order protecting women’s sports permanent.
    Sen. Tuberville has introduced two pieces of legislation this Congress that would preserve Title IX protections for female athletes: the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act and the Protection of Women in Olympic and Amateur Sports Act. He attended the signing of the Executive Order at the White House, where President Trump shouted out Sen. Tuberville for the work he’s done to champion women’s sports both in Congress and throughout his coaching career.
    Read excerpts from the piece below or here.
    “Nov. 5, 2024, is the day the American people sent shockwaves to the swamp in D.C. when they overwhelmingly reelected Donald J. Trump as President of the United States. Seventy-seven million Americans voted for President Trump and his ‘America First’ agenda. A critical part of the agenda includes prioritizing the safety of women and girls in sports and protecting their privacy in bathrooms and locker rooms.
    Since the beginning of time, people have agreed that sex is assigned at birth and determined by God. But under the Biden administration, people were claiming that men can get pregnant. Pure insanity. Democrats weren’t content to just erase gender norms, they wanted to allow transgender men to participate in women’s and girls’ sports.
    As a result, young women have been forced to compete against men – and even to share locker rooms with them. On top of that, American taxpayer dollars are paying for it. Under Joe Biden, 900 women’s medals went to men. That’s just wrong.
    This one is personal for me. My first coaching job was in women’s basketball. Title IX was just starting to be implemented when I took that job. I saw firsthand the immediate difference it made. Back then, there were more than 10 times as many male athletes in college as female athletes. After Title IX that quickly changed. […]
    Recently, President Trump signed an Executive Order ending Democrats’ intentional destruction of Title IX. He is 100% committed to saving women’s sports. I’m very thankful for his leadership on this. The Executive Order makes sure women’s sports are protected for at least the next 4 years.
    But unfortunately, Executive Orders can be reversed. Congress needs to act on this to make sure the next Democrat administration can’t take the same steps to destroy Title IX that the Biden administration took. I introduced a bill, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, that would make President Trump’s Executive Order permanent. My bill prevents a school from receiving federal funding if it lets boys compete in women’s sports. It also defines gender as male and female for this purpose.
    My bill already passed the House on a bipartisan basis. I’m grateful that 38 of my colleagues, along with every member of Senate Republican Leadership, have cosponsored this important legislation.
    We have a lot to accomplish in the first 100 days of the Trump administration, and my bill should be a part of it. Leader John Thune has assured me he will bring it up for a vote in the Senate soon.”
    MORE:
    Tuberville Thanks President Trump for Signing Executive Order Protecting Women’s Sports, Urges Senate to Bring Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act to the Floor for a Vote
    Tuberville Takes Action to Protect Women’s Olympic Sports in Honor of National Girls and Women in Sports Day
    ICYMI: Tuberville Joins “The Megyn Kelly Show” to Advocate for Senate Leadership to Schedule Title IX Legislation for a Vote
    ICYMI: Tuberville in OutKick: Senate to Consider My Bill, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act
    Tuberville Introduces Hallmark Legislation to Preserve Title IX, Protect Women’s Sports
    ICYMI: Tuberville Joins Harris Faulkner on Fox News to Discuss Title IX, Save Women’s Sports
    Tuberville Leads Colleagues in Fight to Save Title IX, Women’s Sports
    Tuberville, Blackburn Urge NCAA President to Keep Men Out of Women’s Sports
    The Globalist-Left’s Assault on Female Athletics
    Tuberville Sponsors Resolution to Overturn Biden’s Attack on Title IX, Save Women’s Sports
    Tuberville Takes Action to Recognize October 10th as ‘American Girls in Sports Day’
    Tuberville Demands Answers on Biden Administration’s Radical Rewrite of Title IX
    ICYMI: Tuberville Joins Lou Holtz: There’s an Attack on Title IX
    ICYMI: Tuberville on Newsmax: Democrats are Trying to Destroy Women’s Sports, Title IX
    Tuberville Leads Roundtable on Protecting Title IX and Saving Women’s Sports
    ICYMI: Tuberville Hosts Roundtable About Saving Women’s Sports
    What Democrats’ Vote Against Women Reveals About the Future of Sports
    Tuberville Forces Senate Vote to Protect Women’s Sports
    Tuberville Demands Answers from NCAA, Dept of Ed on Title IX
    Tuberville Introduces Legislation to Prohibit Men from Competing in Women’s Olympic Sports
    Senator Tuberville joins Fox and Friends to discuss the 50th Anniversary of Inflation and Title IX
    Tuberville Calls for Fairness in Women’s Sports
    Ahead of 50th Anniversary of Title IX, Senator Tuberville Warns Biden Admin is Hacking Away at Women’s Progress
    Senator Tuberville: Biden Title IX Modifications Will Destroy ‘Opportunities For Generations Of Women And Girls’
    Biden executive order will ruin women’s sports and erode Title IX
    Dr. Ben Carson, Sen. Tuberville Break Down Why They Think Trans Athletes Shouldn’t Compete In Women’s Sports
    U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville says Biden administration pushing women to the sidelines
    Tuberville on Biden Administration’s Upcoming Title IX Proposed Rule: ‘It would take a wrecking ball to the five decades of Title IX success and tilt what was a level playing field to the far left’
    Tuberville Presses Under Secretary of Education Nominee on Title IX, Free Speech on Campus
    Tuberville: The Real March Madness
    Tuberville Warns Secretary Cardona Against Weakening Title IX Protections 
    Tuberville Emphasizes Importance of Title IX Protections
    Tuberville Offers Amendment Protecting Women’s Title IX Rights
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Senate Colleagues Demand Answers from USDA on Wildfire Mitigation Projects, Firefighting Hiring Halted by Trump’s Funding Freeze

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, joined Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, in sending a letter demanding answers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regarding the unlawful halt of federal funds needed to mitigate and fight wildfires.
    Even though President Donald Trump did not apply the hiring freeze to positions related to “public safety,” federal firefighters are not currently exempt, and many have reported that their job offers were rescinded. In their letter to Acting Secretary Gary Washington, the senators pressed for more information on the stalled projects and hiring of thousands of federal firefighters, which are critical to protecting our nation’s forests and American families.
    “We write with significant concerns regarding the impact of halting the disbursement of funds for forest management and restoration projects, as well as the universal hiring freeze for Department of Agriculture personnel, including permanent and seasonal firefighters,” the senators wrote. “[A]ddressing the threat of wildfire—even in winter months—should remain a top priority for the Forest Service and the Department of Agriculture. The funds provided by Congress for this work led to record-breaking accomplishments in forest management in 2024. Halting these payments is not only unlawful but also endangers our rural communities by removing a vital component of their economies and delaying critical work to mitigate the threat of wildfire.”
    “Significant questions remain around which projects, grants, and agreements have been affected by these executive actions, but there is no doubt that these actions will damage essential programs that Americans rely on to keep them safe,” the senators continued, requesting additional information and responses to a number of questions about the ongoing funding freeze at USDA.  
    The full text of the letter is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New report highlights agriculture’s $41.3 billion impact on North Dakota’s economy

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Gov. Kelly Armstrong and Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring in collaboration with North Dakota State University (NDSU) along with the North Dakota Department of Commerce, released a comprehensive economic report today underscoring agriculture’s critical role in the state’s economy and rural prosperity.

    The study, conducted by NDSU’s Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics and the Center for Social Research, finds that North Dakota’s agriculture industry generates $41.3 billion annually in gross business volume, supports 123,360 jobs and contributes $10 billion in labor income. 

    “Agriculture isn’t just an industry. It’s the backbone of our economy and a cornerstone of rural prosperity,” said Dr. Greg Lardy, NDSU vice president for agricultural affairs. “This report reinforces the need for policies that drive investment and innovation in the sector.”

    The report, unveiled during a press conference today at the state Capitol, also highlights the continued growth of commodity processing and value-added agriculture, which are driving new economic opportunities across the state.

    “Continuing to add value to our commodities benefits every farmer and rancher across North Dakota and makes our state’s economy more resilient,” Armstrong said, citing examples such as the recently added soybean processing plants in Spiritwood and Casselton and a proposed potato processing plant in Grand Forks. “We’re committed to expanding processing and diversifying our agriculture sector to create jobs and ensure that North Dakota remains a leader in ag innovation as we feed and fuel the world.” 

    The North Dakota Agriculture Industry Economic Contribution Analysis was funded by industry, including the following: North Dakota Agricultural Association; North Dakota Corn Growers Association; North Dakota Dry Bean Council; North Dakota Farm Bureau; North Dakota Farmers Union; North Dakota Soybean Council; North Dakota Soybean Growers Association; North Dakota Stockmen’s Association; Northern Canola Growers Association; Northern Pulse Growers Association; Northland Potato Growers Association; and Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association.

    “Agriculture continues to play an integral part in our state’s economy, thanks to our hardworking and innovative farmers, ranchers, rural communities and ag industries,” Goehring said. “We look forward to the future of agriculture as opportunities to add value, new cutting-edge developments and continued research shape how we produce a wide array of products used here and around the world.”

    Commerce Commissioner Chris Schilken tied the report’s findings to the need for strategic rural planning.

    “Planning is essential to ensure agriculture’s long-term success,” Schilken said. “From infrastructure to workforce development, rural communities need forward-thinking strategies to keep pace with industry growth. That’s why events like the North Dakota Rural Planning Symposium are so critical. They bring together experts and community leaders to map out a sustainable future for North Dakota’s rural economy.”

    The North Dakota Rural Planning Symposium kicks off this evening followed by a full day Wednesday of presentations focusing on strategies for building resilient rural communities, enhancing infrastructure and fostering economic development. The event will bring together community developers, policymakers and industry leaders to explore actionable solutions for strengthening North Dakota’s rural landscape.

    Learn more about the North Dakota Rural Planning Symposium at https://ndgov.link/RuralPlanning.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW regional airports set to fly high

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future, investing almost $12 million to upgrade regional airports across New South Wales. 

    Airports are vital for regional communities, providing critical access to emergency healthcare, as well as commerce, industry, tourism and education. 

    This funding, which is provided under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program, will deliver essential upgrades – such as runway resurfacing, fencing, lighting and drainage – that improve safety, enhance accessibility and boost capacity at our regions’ airports. 

    In Merimbula, Bega Valley Shire Council will receive almost $3.8 million to deliver stage two of Merimbula Airport’s runway extension. This will construct an 80-metre pavement extension at both ends of the runway, providing an 1,800-metre runway take-off length.

    The extended length will enable larger narrow-bodied aircraft to land, supporting emergency services including larger firefighting and military aircraft, as well as additional capacity for passenger services, boosting the economy and tourism and protecting the region’s community. 

    Further north, in Moruya, Eurobodalla Shire Council will receive over $200,000 to reseal the runway, taxiways and apron pavement and replace the apron lighting at Moruya Airport.  

    This will ensure the continued safe operation of the airport, safeguarding its role as a lifeline for the community and a gateway for access to vital services and for visitors to the region. Works will support the continued use of the airport by emergency services, including the RFDS and aerial fire-fighting even for night and low visibility operations, as well as regular passenger services 

    Other works to be funded under Round 4 include: 

    • $5 million for Albury City Council to deliver a full runway overlay to improve safety and strengthen the surface for larger aircraft to land at Albury Airport. This will support visitor levels and emergency services, particularly during bushfire season; 
    • $1 million for Moree Plains Shire Council to upgrade the aeromedical apron, taxiway and parking bays at Moree Regional Airport, creating a 24-hour aeromedical facility;
    • Almost $500,000 for Griffith City Council to replace the ageing runway lights at Griffith Regional Airport, which is critical for safety and ongoing operations, especially for RFDS and NSW Air Ambulance; 
    • $220,000 for Mid-Western Regional Council to upgrade stormwater drainage at Mudgee Regional Airport, which has experienced prolonged closure due to heavy rain affecting passenger and emergency medical flights; 

    Today’s announcement builds on the nearly $100 million that has already been delivered to support 194 projects under the first three rounds of the program. 

    For more information on the Regional Airports Program, including a full list of Round 4 projects in NSW, visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/aviation/regional-remote-aviation/regional-airports-program.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “We’re backing regional communities by backing regional aviation, because we know our regions deserve access to critical services that only aviation can deliver. 

    “Upgrades like these aren’t just improvements, they’re the difference between regional residents getting medical help, firefighters getting access during an emergency and economies growing through tourism.

    “We want our regions to remain connected to loved ones, healthcare and opportunity.”  

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain:

    “Merimbula Airport is a critical access point for our community and emergency services during disasters, which is why I’m proud to deliver over $3.7 million towards this runway extension.

    “This upgrade will support larger aerial firefighting tanker aircraft to land when we need them most, make it easier for larger military transport to operate out of the airport, and also increase the safety for in-flight emergency recoveries.

    “The extended runway will also ensure Merimbula Airport continues to attract aircraft that support our local businesses and visitor economy – while keeping people connected to work, health services and family.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips:

    “I am absolutely delighted to see improvements at Moruya Airport which is a lifeline for our economy, cuts commuting times for local people, and helps get our local produce to national and international markets.

    “Not only that, but many people rely on air services for healthcare, emergency services and to stay connected with family.

    “This investment will create more jobs, help local farmers, and support our social and economic connections across Australia. It’s great news for our regions.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Banking Sector – ASB half year result: Profit up 1% as economy moves toward recovery

    Source: ASB

    ASB has reported a cash net profit after tax (NPAT) of $716 million for the six months to 31 December 2024, an increase of 1% on the prior comparative period, as the economy moves towards recovery.  

    Statutory NPAT is $763 million, a 2% increase on the prior comparative period. The increase in profit reflects a 4% rise in operating income driven by increased lending volumes and favourable interest rate hedging, partially offset by an 8% rise in operating expenses. Home lending grew 5% and business and rural lending grew 2% on the prior comparative period. Margins across lending and deposits remained flat overall.

    Profitability, measured by return on equity, fell 0.6% on the prior comparative period. The increase in profit was more than offset by additional capital requirements, with the total capital ratio rising 80 basis points to 16.3%. During the period there was additional shareholder investment of $700 million, bringing total shareholder investment in ASB to $11.4 billion, supporting growth in New Zealand.

    Chief Executive Vittoria Shortt says ASB has supported its rural, personal and business customers through more than two years of extremely challenging economic conditions and is well positioned to continue backing them as the economy enters the early stages of recovery.

    “New Zealand has been through the most difficult economic cycle in a generation, and we need to be patient with what looks like a gradual recovery. With lower interest rates and inflation providing some relief, and export incomes looking up for a number of sectors, our focus remains on supporting customers and providing capital for the next phase of economic growth.”

    Opening doors for homeowners

    ASB has cut its one-year fixed home loan rate by a total of 1.65% and six-month rate by 1.35% since July 2024.

    “Falling interest rates bring very welcome relief for Kiwi borrowers, but we’re aware most are on fixed mortgages, and the benefit is yet to be felt by many households. Around 45% of our fixed home loan customers are expected to roll onto a lower rate by the end of June, and 70% by Christmas. Since April 2024, we’ve seen borrowers shift toward shorter terms, with close to half of our fixed mortgage customers choosing to fix for just six months.

    “ASB helped more than 23,000 customers build, refinance, buy or move house over the half year, including close to 5,500 first home buyers, with around 3,600 using their ASB KiwiSaver for deposits.

    “We’re backing the build of more warm, dry homes and making it easier for social housing providers to buy them. Since our Accelerated Housing Fund launched in November 2023, we’ve committed $165 million, supporting around 450 new homes for community, affordable and Māori housing.

    “We are continuing to develop new ways to enable Māori to secure lending for housing on Māori land, including supporting papakāinga shared living projects. Through our Accelerated Housing Fund, we’ve now committed $34 million for Māori-led housing developments.”

    Strengthening exports, innovation and New Zealand  

    “ASB provided more than $1 billion in lending to new business, rural and corporate customers over the half year, as we continue to back businesses to compete, scale and drive the growth that will underpin New Zealand’s economic recovery.

    “Our $30 million Clean Tech fund and $20 million ASB ACCESS food and fibre fund are accelerating exporters and innovators ready to grow, but lacking capital to do so. We’re partnering with these emerging business at an early stage, finding new ways to approach lending and unlock their potential. Our food and fibre capability within ASB is also expanding to better support this key sector.

    “Another area where ASB can make an impact on New Zealand’s future is supporting upgrades to infrastructure. We estimate $1 trillion in infrastructure investment is needed over the next 30 years, with energy one of the critical sectors requiring funding. Enabling investment in renewable energy will be an ongoing priority for us, as our research tells us we can help households, businesses and farmers to cut costs, reduce emissions and improve profitability,” says Vittoria.

    Customers also benefit from rate relief

    ASB has passed on Official Cash Rate cuts to more than 110,000 personal, business and rural customers holding variable loans. “The majority of our rural and business customers float some of their lending, so rate relief flows through quickly,” says Vittoria.

    “Farmers have been under pressure in recent years, with depressed commodity prices and increased on farm costs, but conditions are improving for some rural sectors, particularly dairy.

    “We expect dairy revenues to be around $5 billion higher for the 2024/2025 season compared with the season prior through a lift in milk price and production. Beef prices are also up year on year due to tight supply and the lower New Zealand dollar.

    “Our dedicated rural team made 5,000 farm visits this half year to understand the issues and opportunities customers are seeing and to help grow their businesses for the future.”

    Further $140 million to fight fraud, scams and financial crime

    “We are continuing to invest heavily in people, technology and awareness initiatives to protect Kiwi against fraud, scams, and cyber and financial crime and expect to spend another $140 million this financial year.”

    While the volume of online banking fraud and scam cases increased 16%, customer losses were down a third in the year to December 2024. ASB stopped $29 million in suspicious card transactions in 2024 and responded to 18,000 after-hours calls to its 0800 ASB FRAUD hotline in the first year of 24/7 operations. Across the half year ASB identified and took down around 100 fake ASB websites, to prevent further harm from bank impersonation, a significant source of scams and fraud.

    ASB worked with the banking industry to introduce Confirmation of Payee, giving customers an extra layer of reassurance when making payments.

    Supporting customers’ financial progress

    “It’s positive to see customers continuing to save and invest. Our KiwiSaver and Investment funds have performed strongly and together generated more than $1 billion in investment returns for customers this half. The new ASB Aggressive Funds have delivered more than 20% investment returns for our KiwiSaver and Investment fund customers since they launched in November 2023.”[1]

    More than 580,000 customers used ASB’s digital financial wellbeing tools such as Goal Planner and Support Finder in the past year. These features and ASB’s ongoing investment in leading digital services were recognised by CanStar, which awarded ASB Best Digital Bank for the third year in a row.

    Delivering open banking

    Vittoria says: “Our open banking infrastructure is in place and to encourage early-stage uptake we’re providing it free to third-party providers for the first 12 months. The security of customers’ information remains our top priority: as banking continues to evolve it is critical banks, fintechs, global tech companies and all of government work together towards a common goal of the safe and secure sharing of data.”

    Financial overview

    Compared to six months to June 2024 (cash basis)

    • Total lending increased $2.6 billion or 2% to $112 billion
    • Total customer deposits increased $2.3 billion or 3% to $85 billion
    • Impairment losses on financial assets decreased $43 million or 72% to $17 million

    Compared to the December 2023 prior comparative period (cash basis)

    • Total lending increased $4.0 billion or 4% to $112 billion
    • Total customer deposits increased $3.4 billion or 4% to $85 billion
    • Impairment losses on financial assets increased $7 million or 70% to $17 million
    • Net interest margin increased 9 basis points from 2.21% to 2.30%
    • Cost to income ratio increased 140 basis points to 40.7%

    Compared to December 2023 prior comparative period (stat basis)

    • NPAT increased 2% to $763 million
    • Return on equity decreased 60 basis points to 13.5%

    [1] Returns are net of fees but before tax. Past performance is not an indicator of future performance, see ASB’s website for more information.  Interests in the ASB KiwiSaver Scheme and ASB Investment Funds (Schemes) are issued by ASB Group Investments Limited a wholly owned subsidiary of ASB Bank Limited (ASB). For the Scheme’s product disclosure statements, see ASB’s website.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Cramer Introduce Bill to Protect Legal Industries from Debanking

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) to introduce the Fair Access to Banking Act to protect access to financial services and ensure banks operate in a safe, sound manner. The legislation requires that lending and financial services decisions be based on impartial, risk-based analysis – not political or reputational favoritism.

    “Financial services are vital to the success of all businesses and should be based on sound data and risk management –– not as a means to target certain industries or political issues,” said Boozman. I am proud to support legislation that curtails unfair efforts to block lawful businesses’ access to banking due to political beliefs or affiliations and instead restores reliance on proper analytical criteria. 

    “When progressives failed at banning these entire industries, what they did instead is they turned to weaponizing banks as sort of a backdoor to carry out their activist goals,” said Cramer. “Financial institutions are backed by taxpayers, for crying out loud! They should be obligated to provide services in an unbiased, risk-based manner. The Fair Access to Banking Act ensures that banks provide fair access to services and enacts strict penalties for categorically discriminating against legal industries and individuals.”

    Specifically, this legislation penalizes banks and credit unions with over $10 billion in total consolidated assets, or their subsidiaries, if they refuse to do business with any legally compliant, credit-worthy person. It also prevents payment card networks from discriminating against any qualified person because of political or reputational considerations. The bill requires qualified banks to provide written justification for why they are denying a person financial services. Further, the Fair Access to Banking Act would penalize providers who fail to comply with the law by disqualifying institutions from using discount window lending programs, terminating status as an insured depository institution or credit union, or imposing a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation. 

    The bill is based on President Trump’s Fair Access Rule, which was introduced during his first administration and required financial institutions to make individual risk assessments rather than broad decisions regarding entire industries or categories of customers. The Biden administration paused the rule’s implementation in early 2021.

    The Fair Access to Banking Act is endorsed by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, National Rifle Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, The Digital Chamber, Blockchain Association, Independent Petroleum Association of America, Online Lenders Alliance, Day 1 Alliance, GEO Group, National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors and the National Mining Association.

    The bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Curtis (R-UT), Steve Daines (R-MT), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Kennedy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Roger Wicker (R-MS).

    Click here for full text of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) Regains Compliance with NASDAQ Listing Standards as of February 10, 2025. (UPDATED)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is pleased to announce that it has regained compliance with the periodic filing requirement under NASDAQ’s listing rules.

    “Maintaining our NASDAQ listing is of utmost importance to our Company and our stockholders. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to our internal and external accounting teams for their tireless efforts in ensuring our ability to file our FY2024 3rdQuarter financials that allowed American Rebel to regain compliance with NASDAQ’s listing rules.” Andy Ross, CEO of American Rebel, further commented, “The dedication and hard work of Darin Fielding, CFO of our wholly owned subsidiary, Champion Safe Co., who emerged as our regulatory lead due to his previous auditor experience was instrumental in the coordination between our independent auditors, GBQ and Eventus Advisory Group’s seasoned team of public company accounting professionals.”

    Timeline of NASDAQ Compliance Efforts

    November 14, 2024 – FY2024 3rd Quarter 10Q due

    November 22, 2024 – Company notification by NASDAQ that it no longer met the perioding listing requirement due to the inability to file the FY2024 3rd Quarter 10Q

    January 21, 2025 – Deadline for American Rebel Holdings, Inc. to submit a plan to NASDAQ to regain compliance with the listing requirements

    February 7, 2025 – American Rebel Holdings, Inc. files Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024.

    Revenue for the three (3) months ended September 30, 2024 of $2,337,786.00

    Revenue for the nine (9) months ended September 30, 2024 of $9,637,016.00

    February 10, 2025 – American Rebel Holdings, Inc. is notified by NASDAQ Staff that with the February 7, 2025 filing of the 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024, that the Company is deemed compliant with the NASDAQ Listing Rules.

    In the coming weeks, the Company is planning on providing a brief stockholder update from its CEO, Andy Ross, detailing the progress made in our business units throughout last year. This update will highlight the rapid growth and success American Rebel has experienced in our American Rebel Beverage business unit responsible for American Rebel Light Beer and the positive impacts of the reorganization and streamlining of our product offerings and processes at Champion Safe Co. (www.championsafe.com).

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit www.americanrebel.com and www.americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit www.americanrebel.com/investor-relations.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.
    info@americanrebel.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of marketing outreach efforts, continued compliance with Nasdaq listing requirements, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Company Contact:
    Corey Lambrecht, COO
    Corey.lambrecht@americanrebel.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch on Trump’s Chaotic and Cruel Second Term: “The law matters. Respect for your opponents matters. And focusing on the everyday needs of everyday people is what matters most.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) took to the Senate floor to speak on President Trump’s exaggerated claims of winning the 2024 election by a ‘landside,’ and called on the Trump Administration to focus not on political retribution and his agenda of ‘overreach and failure,’ but on the issues that matter to everyday Americans.  
    “As long as President Trump and his allies pretend that he has this massive mandate to literally disrupt and throw out the traditions and norms and guardrails of democracy, that is something I and so many of my colleagues will resist. We can’t do that. The law matters. Respect for your opponents matters. And focusing on the everyday needs of everyday people is what matters most. It’s what is the goal all of us should be looking to accomplish,” said Sen. Welch.
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 
    Read the Senator’s remarks as delivered here. 
    Senator Welch’s Committee and Subcommittee Assignments for the 119th Congress include:  
    Senate Committee on Finance  
    Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry 
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit  
    Senate Committee on the Judiciary 
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on the Constitution  
    Senate Committee on Rules & Administration 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Funds Allocation to Department of Agricultural Research and Education

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 6:01PM by PIB Delhi

    The details of funds allocated for the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) during the financial years 2014-2023 including BE, RE and Actual Spending are as below:

    (Rs. in crore)

    Year

    Budget Estimates (BE)

    Revised Estimates (RE)

    Actual Expenditure

    2014-15

    6144.39

    4884.00

    4840.03

    2015-16

    6320.00

    5586.00

    5572.90

    2016-17

    6620.00

    6238.00

    5995.21

    2017-18

    6800.00

    6992.00

    6989.92

    2018-19

    7800.00

    7952.73

    7943.59

    2019-20

    8078.76

    7846.17

    7844.98

    2020-21

    8362.58

    7762.38

    7685.52

    2021-22

    8513.62

    8513.62

    8439.94

    2022-23

    8513.62

    8658.89

    8578.17

    2023-24

    9504.00

    9876.60

    9804.39

     

    There has been a progressive increase in the budget outlay in successive years. However, there was a minor reduction in RE during 2019-20 & 2020-21 due to pandemic COVID-19.

    During the past decade, the Department has strived to deliver through optimum utilization of available resources and making maximum use of the marginal increase through prioritization of research activities. It has been able to meet the challenges towards carrying out its Research & Development and operational activities in the area of Agriculture and allied sectors and achieving its desired outcome by realigning its processes.

    Further, DARE being a scientific department works in collaboration with the mainline ministries viz Agriculture, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Ministry of Science & Technology etc. on number of research projects as Research Partner to achieve its desired goals and outcome in a collaborative manner.

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

    *****

     

    MG/KSR/1333

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Benefits of Organic Farming

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:31PM by PIB Delhi

    It is agreed to the view that biological substitutes for chemical fertilizers and pesticides can improve health of soil, human and planet, besides benefiting farmers.

    In order to promote use of bio-fertilizers, the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) has developed improved and efficient strains of bio-fertilizers specific to different crops and soil types under the Network project on ‘Soil Biodiversity-Bio-fertilizers’. Under this project ICAR has developed improved and efficient strains of bio-fertilizer specific to different crops and soil types, Liquid Bio-fertilizer technology with higher shelf life, bio-fertilizer consortia formulation with two or more bio-fertilizer strains, microbial enriched bio-compost and Zinc & Potassium Solubilizing Bio-fertilizers. The ICAR also imparts training to educate farmers on use of bio-fertilizers.

    To promote use of organic fertilizers in the country, Government is promoting organic farming through the schemes of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) in all the States/UTs (except North Eastern States). For North Eastern States, 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 processing, certification & marketing and post-harvest management training and capacity building. Under PKVY, assistance of Rs. 31,500 per ha for a period of three years is provided for promotion of organic farming. Out of this, assistance of Rs. 15,000 per ha for a period of three years is provided to farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer for on- farm /off –farm organic inputs. Under MOVCDNER, assistance of Rs. 46,500/ha for 3 years is provided for creation of Farmers Producer Organization, support to farmers for organic inputs etc. Out of this, assistance @ Rs. 32500/ ha for 3 years is provided to farmers for off -farm /on –farm organic inputs under the scheme including Rs. 15,000 as Direct Benefit Transfer to the farmers. The year-wise fund released including assistance for procurement of off-farm and on-farm organic inputs during the period of last three years is as under:

    Rs. in Crore.

    Year

    PKVY

    MOVCDNER

    2021-22

    88.58

    133.29

    2022-23

    188.78

    144.42

    2023-24

    206.39

    230.67

    In order to ensure the avaibility of good quality of bio-fertilizers, organic fertilizers and Bio- stimulants, the Government of India regulates its quality under the Fertilizer Control Order (1985).

    Government is implementing Market Development Assistance (MDA) @ Rs. 1500/Metric Tonne to promote organic fertilizers, viz., Fermented Organic Manure/ Liquid Fermented Organic Manure/Phosphate Rich Organic Manure produced at plants under Galvanizing Organic Bio Agro Resources Dhan (GOBARdhan) scheme of Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.

    To incentivize the farmers to reduce the overall consumption of fertilizers for improving soil health and fertility and sustainable productivity, “PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother Earth (PM-PRANAM)” incentivizes States and Union Territories to promote alternative fertilizers and balanced use of chemical fertilizers. Under this programme, 50% of subsidy savings will be passed on as a grant to the state that reduces chemical fertilizers.

    National Center of Organic and Natural Farming (NCONF) and its Regional Center of Organic and Natural Farming (RCONF) located at Ghaziabad, Nagpur, Bangalore, Imphal and Bhubaneswar organise various trainings and online awareness campaign on organic and natural farming. ICAR also imparts trainings, front-line demonstrations, awareness programs etc. to educate farmers on organic farming, through network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

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

    *****

     

    MG/KSR/1362

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Agricultural Infrastructure Fund

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:29PM by PIB Delhi

     In order to enhance the income of farmers, it is not only essential to enhance production and productivity of farm produce but also minimize the post-harvest losses and ensure better realization of prices for farmers through creation of modern post-harvest management infrastructure. With an objective to address the existing gaps in post-harvest management infrastructure in the country, the flagship scheme of Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) was launched in 2020-21 to strengthen the infrastructure in the country through creation of farm gate storage and logistics infrastructure to enable farmers to store and preserve their farm produce properly and sell them in the market at better price with reduced post-harvest losses and lesser number of intermediaries. Improved post-harvest management infrastructure like warehouses, Cold stores, sorting and grading units, ripening chambers etc will allow farmers to sell directly to a larger base of consumers and hence, increase value realization for the farmers. This will improve the overall income of farmers. Further, AIF scheme aims to benefit all stakeholders in the agricultural ecosystem by contributing in the holistic development of the agriculture sector. Under AIF, provision for Rs. 1 Lakh crore loan has been made through lending institutions with a interest rate cap of 9% on loans. The scheme is operational from 2020-21 to 2032-33.

    All loans under this financing facility have interest subvention of 3% per annum up to a loan limit of ₹2 crores. This interest subvention is available for a maximum period of 7 years. In case of loans beyond ₹2 crores, interest subvention is limited up to ₹2 crores. Credit guarantee coverage is also available for eligible borrowers from this financing facility under Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) scheme for a loan up to ₹2 crores. The fee for this coverage is borne by the Government.

    Budgetary support is being provided for interest subvention and credit guarantee fee as also administrative cost of PMU. This will be amount to Rs. 10,636 crores over a period of 10 years. The detailed break up is as below.

    SL NO.

    Name of Component

    Allotted Fund Amount

    1

    Interest Subvention Cost

    Rs. 7907Cr

    2

    Credit Guarantee Cost

    Rs. 2629 Cr

    3

    Administration Cost of PMU

    Rs. 100 Cr

    Total

    Rs. 10636 Cr

     

     State/UT wise details of Projects approved under AIF scheme during the last three years is as below: –

      (Amount in Rs Crore)

    Sl.

    State / UT

    Sanctioned No

    Sanctioned Amount

    1

    Madhya Pradesh

    7,701

    5,853

    2

    Maharashtra

    6,860

    4,151

    3

    Rajasthan

    1,802

    2,310

    4

    Gujarat

    2,072

    2,215

    5

    Uttar Pradesh

    3,854

    3,636

    6

    Haryana

    2,704

    2,108

    7

    Punjab

    12,003

    3,116

    8

    Telangana

    1,662

    2,178

    9

    Karnataka

    2,208

    2,148

    10

    Andhra Pradesh

    680

    1,116

    11

    West Bengal

    2,537

    1,441

    12

    Tamil Nadu

    5,889

    1,189

    13

    Chhattisgarh

    814

    1,008

    14

    Odisha

    1,098

    810

    15

    Assam

    409

    726

    16

    Bihar

    848

    680

    17

    Kerala

    1,600

    604

    18

    Uttarakhand

    236

    315

    19

    Jharkhand

    225

    255

    20

    Himachal Pradesh

    347

    137

    21

    Jammu And Kashmir

    88

    198

    22

    Delhi

    7

    10

    23

    Goa

    19

    10

    24

    Meghalaya

    2

    8

    25

    Chandigarh

    2

    8

     

    26

    Arunachal Pradesh

    5

    6

    27

    Tripura

    5

    10

    28

    Nagaland

    0

    0

    29

    The Dadra And Nagar Haveli And Daman And Diu

    1

    1

    30

    Puducherry

    2

    2

    31

    Manipur

    3

    1

    32

    Mizoram

    0

    0

    33

    Sikkim

    0

    0

    34

    Ladakh

    0

    0

    35

    Lakshadweep

    0

    0

    36

    Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    0

    0

     

    Total

             55,683

                   36,250

     

    An impact assessment study of AIF was conducted by Agro Economic Research Centre, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, Pune in December 2023 to evaluate overall performance of the scheme, primarily based on feedback from beneficiaries as well as farmers in selected states.  The main findings of the study are as below. 

    1.       Based on this study, till 26th January 2025, investment in the agri sector under AIF has generated more than 9 lakh employment opportunities. Out of the sanctioned projects, nearly 97% of the projects created are in rural areas promoting investment and employment opportunities in rural areas. 

    2.       The average number of persons employed per unit in the peak season was found to be 11. The average was highest i.e. 27 in Rajasthan and lowest i.e. 5 in the state of Maharashtra.

    3.       Further, the storage infrastructure created under AIF has added nearly 550 LMT of storage capacity which includes approx. 510.6 LMT of dry storage and nearly 39.4 LMT of Cold storage capacities (as on 26.01.2025). This additional storage capacity can save up to 20.4 LMT of food grains and 3.9 LMT of horticulture produce annually. 

    4.       The Agro processing centres created under the scheme is promoting timely value-addition of farmer’s produce resulting in increase in farmer’s income up to 20% and reduction of post-harvest losses. Custom hiring centres set up under the scheme is boosting farm mechanization and adoption of better crop residue management practices.

    5.       31 percent of the AIF units have availed of government subsidies also. Thus, they have been benefitted due to Convergence under AIF. 

    6.       For around 85 percent of the total units, availability of AIF loan was the main reason for starting the unit.

     

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

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Spurious Seeds, Pesticides and Fertilizers Supplied to the Farmers

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:27PM by PIB Delhi

    To curb the malpractices of spurious seeds, pesticides and fertilizers and in order to ensure availability of quality inputs to the farmers, various provisions are available in the Seeds Act, 1966, the Seeds Rules, 1968, the Seeds (Control) Order, 1983, Essential Commodity Act, 1955, Insecticide Act, 1964, Insecticides Rules,1971, the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985etc.

    The concerned State Department of Agriculture appoints the Inspectors for ensuring quality control of seeds, fertilizers and pesticides in their respective states. In case any samples of seeds, fertilizers and pesticides are found to be spurious/sub-standard, action is taken under the relevant provisions of Acts and Rules. The details of samples drawn by inspector sand found substandard (across the Country) in respect of Seeds, Fertilizers and pesticides during 2023-24 is given below. 

    1. 133,588 seed samples were drawn and out of which 3,630 samples were found sub-standard during the year 2023-24.
    2. 1,81,153 fertiliser samples were analysed and out of which 8,988 samples were found nonstandard during the year 2023-24.

    iii. 80,789 pesticide samples were analysed and out of which 2,222 samples were found to be spurious.

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

    *****

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Structural Challenges in Indian Agriculture

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:26PM by PIB Delhi

    Government of India is implementing various measures to improve the Indian Agriculture which encompasses multitude of developmental programmes, schemes, reforms and policies aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, raising resource use efficiency, promoting sustainable agriculture and strengthening infrastructure, ensuring remunerative price to farmers, etc. These include:

    1. National Food Security and Nutrition Mission (NFSNM)
    2. National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)-Oil Palm
    3. National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)-Oilseeds
    4. National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)
    5. National Mission on Natural Faming (NMNF)
    6. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
    7. Soil Health & Fertility (SH&F)
    8. Rainfed Area Development (RAD)
    9. Agroforestry
    10. Crop Diversification Programme (CDP)
    11. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Extension (SMAE)
    12. Sub-Mission on Seed and Planting Material (SMSP)
    13. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
    14. National Bamboo Mission
    15. National Bee Keeping and Honey Mission (NBHM)
    16. Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region
    17. Per Drop More crop (PDMC)
    18. Integrated Scheme for Agriculture Marketing (ISAM)
    19. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
    20. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY)
    21. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)/ Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS)
    22. Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA)
    23. Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS)
    24. Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF)
    25. Formation and Promotion of 10,000 new Farmer Producers Organizations (FPOs)
    26. Namo Drone Didi
    27. Agri Fund for Start-Ups & Rural Enterprises (AgriSURE)
    28. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Mechanization (SMAM)
    29. Digital Agriculture Mission

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

    *****

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Farmers’ Welfare Measures

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Agriculture is a State subject and Government of India supports the efforts of States through appropriate policy measures, budgetary allocation and various schemes/ programmes. The various schemes/ programmes of the Government of India are meant for the welfare of farmers by increasing production, remunerative returns and income support to farmers. The Government has substantially enhanced the budget allocation of Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare (DA&FW) from Rs. 21933.50 crore BE during 2013-14 to Rs. 1,22,528.77 crore BE during 2024-25. Schemes/programmes initiated by DA&FW are conceptualised and implemented taken in consideration of improving the economic condition of farmers owning small handholdings, access to credit and to enhance overall income of farmers and remunerative returns in the agriculture sector.

    PM KISAN Samman Nidhi Scheme has been launched in 2019 with the sole objective to enhance the income of farmers owning small landholdings. This scheme provides Rs. 6000 per year in 3 equal instalments. So far, more than Rs.3.46 lakh Cr. has been disbursed to eligible farmers through 18 instalments.

    The other major schemes run by Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare for enhance of overall income of farmers are as under:

    1. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY)
    2. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)/ Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS)
    3. Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS)
    4. Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF)
    5. Formation and Promotion of 10,000 new Farmer Producers Organizations (FPOs)
    6. National Bee Keeping and Honey Mission (NBHM)
    7. Namo Drone Didi
    8. National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)
    9. Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA)
    10. Agri Fund for Start-Ups & Rural Enterprises’ (AgriSURE)
    11. Per Drop More Crop (PDMC)
    12. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Mechanization (SMAM)
    13. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
    14. Soil Health & Fertility (SH&F)
    15. Rainfed Area Development (RAD)
    16. Agroforestry
    17. Crop Diversification Programme (CDP)
    18. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Extension (SMAE)
    19. Sub-Mission on Seed and Planting Material (SMSP)
    20. National Food Security and Nutrition Mission (NFSNM)
    21. Integrated Scheme for Agriculture Marketing (ISAM)
    22. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
    23. National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)-Oil Palm
    24. National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)-Oilseeds
    25. Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region
    26. Digital Agriculture Mission
    27. National Bamboo Mission

    PM-AASHA (Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan) scheme ensures remunerative prices for farmers’ produce and prevent distress sales. It aims to strengthen the Minimum Support Price (MSP) mechanism and provide better price support for farmers.

    “Formation & Promotion of new 10,000 FPOs with budget outlay of Rs 6,865 Crore. Farmers Producer Organization (FPOs) are being set up to give farmers collective bargaining power in markets as well as enabling small farmers to pool resources, access technology, and get better prices for their crops.

    Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) with financial provision of one Lakh Crore scheme has been launched with an objective to mobilize a medium – long term debt financing facility for investment in viable projects for post-harvest management Infrastructure and community farming assets through incentives and financial support in order to improve agriculture infrastructure in the country. Following supports are being provided under Agri Infra Fund. 

    Interest Subvention: All loans under this financing facility have interest subvention of 3% per annum up to a limit of ₹ 2 crore. This subvention is available for a maximum period of 7 years. In case of loans beyond ₹ 2 crore, interest subvention is limited up to ₹ 2 crore.

    Credit Guarantee: Credit guarantee coverage is available for eligible borrowers from this financing facility under Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) scheme for a loan up to ₹ 2 crore. The fee for this coverage will be paid by the Government. In case of FPOs the credit guarantee may be availed from the facility created under FPO promotion scheme of DA&FW.

    Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS) provides Interest Subvention (IS) of 1.5% to various Financial Institutions (Banks, RRBs, PACS, etc.) for delivering Short-Term Agriculture Operation (STAO) loans at a fixed rate of 7% to farmers through KCC. If the farmer repays the loan within time, he gets a Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI) of 3%, bringing his loan liability to 4% overall (7% minus 3%). It is exclusively operated through Kisan Credit Card (KCC).

    National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds) has been launched on 3rd Oct, 2024 for enhancing the production of key primary oilseed crops such as Rapeseed-Mustard, Groundnut, Soybean, Sunflower, and Sesamum, as well as increasing collection and extraction efficiency from secondary sources like Cottonseed, Rice Bran, and Tree Borne Oils. The mission aims to increase primary oilseed production from 39 million tonnes (2022-23) to 69.7 million tonnes by 2030-31. Together with NMEO-OP (Oil Palm), the Mission targets to increase domestic edible oil production to 25.45 million tonnes by 2030-31 meeting around 72% of our projected domestic requirement. To ensure the timely availability of quality seeds, the Mission will introduce an online 5-year rolling seed plan through the ‘Seed Authentication, Traceability & Holistic Inventory (SATHI)’ Portal, enabling states to establish advance tie-ups with seed-producing agencies, including cooperatives, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and government or private seed corporations. 65 new seed hubs and 50 seed storage units will be set up in public sector to improve the seed production infrastructure.

    The following have been proposed in the upcoming budget for income support, improve access to credit and overall growth of agriculture sector:

    Enhanced Credit through KCC: – Loan increased from 3 lakh to ₹5 lakh to facilitate short term loans for 7.7 crore farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers.

    Aatmanirbharta in Pulses: – To launch a 6-year Mission with special focus on Tur, Urad and Masoor, emphasizing development and commercial availability of climate resilient seeds, enhancing protein content, increasing productivity and improving post-harvest storage and management, assuring remunerative prices to the farmers.

    National Mission on High Yielding Seeds: – Targeted development and propagation of seeds with high yield, pest resistance and climate resilience.

    Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana – It has been proposed Agri Districts Programme to cover 100 districts which is likely to help 1.7 crore farmers.

    Mission for Cotton Productivity: – To be launched a 5-year mission to facilitate improvements in productivity and sustainability of cotton farming.

    Makhana Board in Bihar: – It is proposed to set up Makhana Board to Improve production, processing, value addition, and marketing and organisation of FPOs.

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

    *****

     

    MG/KSR/1173

    (Release ID: 2101841) Visitor Counter : 24

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Digital Identities to Farmers

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:24PM by PIB Delhi

    As on 07.02.2024, a total of 2,05,59,196 farmer IDs have been created. A target has been set for creation of 11 Crore Farmer IDs by 2026-27 including digital identity of the farmers of all the North eastern states.

    Digital Crop survey has been conducted in 461 Districts in Kharif 2024 against the target of 400 Districts. The Details are given below.

    State Registry, a component of AgriStack, is built in a federated architecture. Thus, the ownership of the data is with the respective States. The federated system has been built considering the privacy aspects as per Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023. At present, the Farmer Database will cover all the land holders’ farmers, including women farmers, across the nation. Farmers Registry application has the provision to onboard the tenant and lessee farmers. State can decide to include such farmers in the Farmers Registry as per the State policy. The land records for incorporating the inheritance and land transactions are updated by the respective State Governments.

    Sr. No.

    State Name

    Total Districts covered under DCS

    Total Plots surveyed

    1.

    Uttar Pradesh

    75

    5,37,13,000

    2.

    Gujarat

    33

    82,26,090

    3.

    Bihar

    20

    17,35,146

    4.

    Tamil Nadu

    38

    1,73,48,823

    5.

    Odisha

    30

    2,55,72,394

    6.

    Telangana

    32

    4,43,225

    7.

    Assam

    29

    26,24,942

    8.

    Maharashtra

    34

    11,17,068

    9.

    Madhya Pradesh

    55

    4,68,41,871

    10.

    Andhra Pradesh

    26

    1,06,60,474

    11.

    Rajasthan

    50

    19,50,466

    12.

    Kerala

    03

    8,72,655

    13.

    Chhattisgarh

    19

    24,16,408

    14.

    Punjab

    06

    44,649

    15.

    Karnataka

    31

    66,87,960

     

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

    *****

     

    MG/KSR/1169

    (Release ID: 2101839) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Assessment of Crop Losses through Satellite

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 5:23PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has carried out pilot studies for timely and transparent yield estimation under PMFBY using technology including satellites i.e. remote sensing data, by engaging various Government and private agencies through Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre (MNCFC).   Based on the findings of these pilots and after discussions with stakeholders & technical consultations, YES-TECH (Yield Estimation System Based on Technology) has been introduced for paddy and wheat crops from Kharif 2023.   Government has implemented technology-based yield estimation in combination with conventional Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs) based yield estimation for improving crop loss assessment and achieving timely insurance claims payout for farmers. Under this initiative 30% weightage to yield estimation has mandatorily been assigned to YES-TECH derived yield. 

    In Kharif 2023, all implementing States have successfully completed claims calculation and payout using YESTECH and no dispute has been reported from any of the stakeholders; thereby, increasing transparency and efficiency in the system.

    PMFBY is mainly implemented on ‘Area Approach’ basis and comprehensive risk coverage for crops of farmers against all non-preventable natural risks from pre-sowing to
    post-harvest stages of the crops at very minimum premium for the farmers is provided under the scheme.  However, losses due to localized risks of hailstorm, landslide, inundation, cloud burst & natural fire and post-harvest losses due to cyclone, cyclonic/unseasonal rains & hailstorms are calculated on individual insured farm basis.

    Further, crop damage to crops to non-procurement by agencies or delay in procurement by them is not covered under PMFBY.

    The review/revisions / rationalization / improvements in the crop insurance schemes are a continuous process and decision on suggestion/ representations/ recommendations of the stakeholders/studies are taken from time to time.  Based on the experience gained, views of various stakeholders and with a view to ensure better transparency, accountability, timely payment of claims to the farmers and to make the scheme more farmer friendly, Government has periodically revised the Operational Guidelines of the PMFBY comprehensively to ensure that the eligible benefits under the scheme reach the farmers timely and transparent.

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

    *****

     

    MG/KSR/1213

    (Release ID: 2101838) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A fierce tussle over a Northern Territory river reveals Australia’s stark choice on water justice

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Quentin Grafton, Australian Laureate Professor of Economics, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University

    The Roper River Chris Ison/Shutterstock

    Water is now a contested resource around the world. Nowhere is this more evident than in the fight playing out over the Northern Territory’s Roper River – one of the last free-flowing rivers in Australia, nurtured by the enduring presence of First Nations custodians.

    The territory government recently doubled water extraction allowances from the aquifer that feeds the Roper River, making billions of litres available to irrigators, for free. The change risks permanent damage not just to the river but to world-famous springs and sacred sites fundamentally important to Traditional Owners.

    Australia has a very poor track record on maintaining healthy river systems, and on respecting First Nations rights to access and use water.

    The Roper River represents a chance to change course on decades of water policy failure. It also shows we must transform how Australia’s water is valued, who uses it, and who decides how vital rivers should be managed.

    What’s happening on the Roper River?

    The Roper River runs east for 400 kilometres from the Katherine region to the Gulf of Carpentaria.

    First Nations people comprise 73% of the population in the Roper River area. Amid socioeconomic challenges, Country sustains them as it has done for 65,000 years. It is integral to maintaining cultural knowledge, as well as ceremonial practices, environmental care and traditional food systems. Traditional Owners’ rights are recognised through Aboriginal freehold land and native title across the area.

    Irrigated crops including melons, mangoes and cotton are grown over a small part of the river catchment.

    In a string of recent decisions – mainly the designation of regional “water allocation plans” – the territory government has vastly increased potential extraction from underground aquifers. This could allow agriculture and other industries to expand.

    The Mataranka plan, which applies to the Roper River, now allows irrigators to double the amount of water extracted from an underground aquifer crucial to the river’s dry-season flows. These new extraction amounts would fill 25,000 Olympic swimming pools a year. The groundwater also feeds thermal springs at Mataranka – a sacred site and tourism drawcard.

    The groundwater also feeds thermal springs at Mataranka, a tourism drawcard.
    Martin Helgemeir/Shutterstock

    The decision came despite staunch opposition from Traditional Owners. As Northern Land Council chair Matthew Ryan told SBS:

    Both the previous and the current NT Government have ignored the voices of Traditional Owners, who have repeatedly said that the health and viability of the Roper River and the springs at Mataranka are at great risk.

    Water is life. It is our most valuable resource and Traditional Owners have an obligation to take care of the land and areas of cultural significance.

    The Baaka: a sad story of degradation

    Sadly, this story is not new to Australia. We need only look to the Baaka (Lower Darling River) in New South Wales as a cautionary tale.

    More than a century of water extraction has left the river and its wetlands degraded. This was demonstrated in 2023 when up to 30 million fish died due to low levels of dissolved oxygen, caused by, among other factors, too much water extracted upstream.

    The ecological damage has harmed the health and wellbeing of river communities – especially Traditional Owners such as the Barkandji people, who have long relied on the river for sustenance.

    The problem is getting worse. As research late last year showed, an investment of more than A$8 billion to date has failed to prevent a stark decline in the health of the Murray-Darling Basin river system.

    Martuwarra: another river in peril

    Martuwarra, or the Fitzroy River, runs through Western Australia’s Kimberley region. It is the state’s largest Aboriginal Cultural Heritage site and is on the national heritage list. Evidence indicates human occupation along the Martuwarra for at least 35,000  years.

    Traditional knowledge indicates climate change – among other harms – is threatening the Martuwarra. Ecological and ground water systems are drying up, making traditional food and medicine harder to find.

    This harms Indigenous custodians reliant on the Martuwarra for their lifeways and livelihoods.

    But there is hope. The Indigenous-led Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council has united West Kimberley people, First Peoples and others, along with stakeholders. It seeks to foster joint decision-making on planning and management to take full account of the social, cultural, spiritual and environmental impacts of water allocation across the catchment.

    This world-leading example shows what can be achieved when Traditional Owners and their partners unite to defend nature, water and Country as sources of life, not just resources to be exploited.

    Finding answers

    Many of the world’s largest rivers are suffering from neglect and destruction. Last month, on the world’s inaugural Water Justice Day, people around the globe fighting for water justice came together in Canberra.

    Community members, researchers, Elders, advocates and decision-makers gathered to share stories from Argentina, Australia, India, Kenya, Brazil and Mexico.

    Each tale described people working together to push back against water injustice, whether it involved unequal access, theft, dispossession, pollution or post-truth claims about water.

    Participants also watched the premiere screening of the short film EveryOne, EveryWhere, EveryWhen. It highlights what is at stake for Australia’s living rivers – Baaka, Roper and Martuwarra – and tells of the struggle to bring justice to these rivers and their people.

    A trailer for the film EveryOne, EveryWhere, EveryWhen.

    A fork in the river

    Clearly, the time for water reform is now. So what does this mean in practice?

    First, the precautionary principle must be deeply embedded in all government decisions. This means the potential for serious environmental damage must be properly considered, and actions taken to avoid it, even when science is not certain.

    Second, permission from First Peoples should be obtained for any activity affecting their land or waters, following the principles of “free, prior and informed consent”.

    And finally, both Indigenous knowledge and Western science must be brought together to plan, monitor and regulate all water extraction, to ensure our precious rivers are managed for both the present and the future.

    Australians face a stark choice.

    We can keep gifting valuable water resources to powerful commercial interests, while ignoring the warning signs our rivers are sending.

    Or we can follow First Nations leaders and listen to what Country is telling us: to safeguard water for everyone, including non-human kin, to secure a liveable and thriving future for all.

    In response to issues raised in this article, the NT’s Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment, Joshua Burgoyne, said the Mataranka water allocation plan provides certainty to the environment and the community and supports regional economic development.

    He said the plan was “precautionary, evidenced based, and developed with considered involvement from local community representatives” including Traditional Owners, and preserves more than 90% of dry season flows to the Roper River.

    Quentin Grafton receives funding from the Australian Research Council and is the Convenor of the Water Justice Hub.

    Anne Poelina is Chair, Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council. She is Professor, Chair and Senior Research Fellow Indigenous Knowledges and affiliated with Nulungu Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Broome. She is Project Lead for an Australian Research Council Funded Project.

    Sarah Milne has received funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. A fierce tussle over a Northern Territory river reveals Australia’s stark choice on water justice – https://theconversation.com/a-fierce-tussle-over-a-northern-territory-river-reveals-australias-stark-choice-on-water-justice-248766

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Nutrition education – E-000472/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000472/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR), Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (PfE), Christine Singer (Renew), Filip Turek (PfE)

    Nutrition education is vital for fostering healthier lifestyles and addressing the growing challenges of eating disorders and diabetes. Nowadays, unfortunately, most people rely on social media for nutrition information.

    Nordic countries include nutrition in health education and home economics classes, integrating practical skills and nutritional science.

    Similarly, Japan’s shokuiku programme emphasises hands-on experience with food, instilling healthy habits from an early age.

    Curricula that incorporate nutrition courses can equip students with the knowledge they need to make informed dietary choices, fostering long-term healthy living and reducing healthcare costs. Adopting nutrition education could help to:

    – address disparities in dietary knowledge and access to information;

    – effectively tackle obesity and food waste in Europe;

    – support the EU’s commitment to promoting health and well-being under the Farm to Fork Strategy, which aims to create sustainable and equitable food systems;

    – invest in Europe’s future, given that healthier children are more likely to succeed academically, thrive socially and grow into adults who contribute positively to their communities.

    Can the Commission say:

    • 1.whether it intends to promote the exchange of best practices in nutrition-related education in the EU, in accordance with Article 165 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union?
    • 2.whether it is planning additional initiatives to promote education about healthy nutrition?

    Submitted: 4.2.2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular – B10-0134/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0134/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular

    (2025/2547(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    − having regard to Rule 150(5) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas since 2018, the Nicaraguan Government has systematically persecuted, repressed and incarcerated dissidents, political opponents, community and religious leaders, human rights defenders, civil society organisations and journalists;

    B. whereas the regime has intensified its repression through the forced expulsion, arbitrary deprivation of nationality and confiscation of assets of over 400 Nicaraguans, with 135 deported to Guatemala in September 2024; whereas Spain has consistently offered its citizenship to Nicaraguan exiles;

    C. whereas 46 people are reported to remain imprisoned in Nicaragua for political reasons; whereas families of detainees have denounced inhumane conditions;

    D. whereas the regime has deployed a strategy of systematic repression against civil society and religious communities; whereas the government has closed at least 58 media outlets, and, according to the IACHR, has revoked the legal status of over 5,000 non-governmental organisations, with more than 1,500 shut down on 20 August 2024;

    E. whereas in September 2024, the Criminal Code was amended to allow for prosecuting in absentia people outside the country, facilitating the persecution of dissidents in exile and the seizure of assets;

    F. whereas in November 2024, the Constitution was amended, deepening the concentration of power in the executive, and providing legal cover to the arbitrary deprivation of nationality;

    G. whereas in February 2025, Nicaragua announced its withdrawal from the Food and Agriculture Organization, adding to the increasing isolation of the country from the international community;

    1. Strongly condemns the Nicaraguan government for its systematic persecution and repression, including through the use of forced exile and statelessness, of dissident voices, community and religious leaders, human rights defenders, civil society organisations and journalists;

    2. Expresses its deep concerns over recent legislative and constitutional changes; strongly urges Nicaragua to repeal all repressive legislation passed since 2018;

    3. Urges the Nicaraguan Government to immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners; to ensure, in the meantime, that they have regular and unrestricted access to food, medical care, their family and lawyers of their choice; to withdraw all legal proceedings against them; to allow the safe return of refugees and exiles; to return all unduly seized assets; and to restore full respect for human rights;

    4. Calls on the Nicaraguan authorities to stop unduly closing non-governmental organisations, to restore the legal personality of all organisations, political parties, universities and media outlets that have been arbitrarily shut down, and to return all unduly seized assets;

    5. Calls on the EU and its Member States to provide support to the people that are detained, to strengthen support for civil society organisations, journalists and human rights defenders both in Nicaragua and in exile, and to intensify efforts to host, protect and assist those displaced and expelled from Nicaragua; welcomes the Spanish government’s initiative to offer nationality to exiles and their families;

    6. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Nicaraguan authorities, the Council, the Commission, and the HR/VP.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India-Israel Business Forum & CEO Forum Held To Strengthen Bilateral Economic Ties

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India-Israel Business Forum & CEO Forum Held To Strengthen Bilateral Economic Ties

    Meeting to enhance strategic partnership unlocking opportunities for trade, investment, and tech collaboration

    India-Israel partnership, built on shared values of democracy, economic resilience, and technological advancement: Shri Piyush Goyal

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 7:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in collaboration with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the Embassy of Israel, successfully hosted the India-Israel Business Forum and the 3rd India-Israel CEO Forum in New Delhi. These landmark events reinforced the deep-rooted economic and strategic partnership between the two nations, unlocking new opportunities for trade, investment, and technological collaboration.

    Addressing the gathering during the inaugural session of the Business Forum, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal reaffirmed India’s commitment to becoming a USD 30-35 trillion economy by 2047, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat. He emphasized the growing India-Israel partnership, built on shared values of democracy, economic resilience, and technological advancement, while underlining India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism and commitment to global peace and security.

    Highlighting India’s 10 key strengths in terms of 10 D’s, that define its economic potential, the Minister spoke about Democracy – Equal opportunities for all, Demographic Dividend – A young and skilled workforce, Diversity – A multi-dimensional economy with vast opportunities, Digitization – Rapid technological transformation, Decarbonization – Commitment to a green economy, Determination – A workforce driven by innovation, Development – A robust policy framework for growth, Dependability – A trusted global partner, Decisive Leadership – Bold economic reforms and Demand – A thriving domestic market.

    Minister Goyal also highlighted the digital prowess of India and how the country has been able to digitise very rapidly in Agritech and education and in every aspect of the economy. He emphasised that inclusive growth opens up a new set of opportunities leading to development of all regions of India. He mentioned that Israel could look upon India as a trusted and dependable partner, emphasizing the role of India during the COVID pandemic and how India has met every commitment.

    H E MK Nir Barkat, Minister of Economy and Industry, State of Israel said that the delegation to India Israel Business Forum was the biggest ever mission to any country from Israel. He said, “I want to mention that there is a special friendship between Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Netanyahu throughout the years with very strong Government-to-Government collaboration.”

    He underscored two important goals of the Forum. First, to get Israeli companies’ exposure and seek collaboration opportunities with India and the second is to discover what the Government from both sides can do to make the relationship between India and Israel even deeper.

    Minister Barkat also underscored the importance of India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and the India Israel Business Forum provides an opportunity to make that happen.

    Speaking during the inaugural session of the Business Forum, Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India highlighted that India has a large market with skills across the spectrum including skills in designing of chips and research in pharmaceuticals, highlighting collaboration opportunities with the robust innovation ecosystem of Israel and enhancing FDI both ways.

    H E Reuven Azar, Ambassador of Israel to India mentioned how India and Israel can geopolitically secure their supply chains and secondly on discovering strategies to win the race for global competition. He highlighted that both countries can come together and form the partnership in high tech manufacturing, research & development and provide the outlook for future Israel-India partnership with the signing of the Mutual Investment Agreement in March.   

    The 3rd India-Israel CEO Forum witnessed strategic discussions between industry leaders, policymakers, and investors. The CEO Forum focused on expanding India-Israel business and trade relations, particularly in Key Areas of Collaboration like:

    • Technology & Innovation: Strengthening partnerships in AI, quantum computing, smart manufacturing, and cybersecurity.
    • Agriculture & Healthcare: Leveraging Israeli agri-tech and medical R&D to enhance food security and healthcare innovation.
    • Défense & Homeland Security: Deepening cooperation in defense manufacturing and security technology.
    • Energy & Water Management: Expanding joint efforts in renewable energy, energy conservation, smart grids, and sustainable water solutions.
    • Investment & Trade Facilitation: Enhancing FDI in both directions and fostering ease of doing business.

    Mr Avi Balashnikov, Chairman of the Board, Israel Export Institute said that “people sometimes talk about big India and small Israel but when I look, I see two giants with India giant in size and scale and Israel giant in new ideas.”

    Mr. Sanjiv Puri, President, CII mentioned several areas of collaboration opportunities including AI and quantum computing, renewable energy, water, and further mentioned about strengthening of India–Israel Industrial R&D and Technological Innovation Fund.

    The Israel India Business Forum saw participation from industry members of India and Israel. At the B2B interactions, industry members discussed potential areas of collaboration between the countries. The Forum saw 500+ B2B meetings.

    The India-Israel Business Forum & CEO Forum mark a significant milestone in accelerating economic cooperation, trade expansion, and investment-led growth. As natural allies, India and Israel are committed to fostering a future-ready partnership, driving innovation, and creating opportunities for mutual prosperity.

    *****

     

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan/Asmitabha Manna

    (Release ID: 2101930) Visitor Counter : 73

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ICAR-NRIIPM TO CELEBRATE 37TH FOUNDATION DAY

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 6:48PM by PIB Delhi

    National Research Institute for Integrated Pest management (ICAR-NRIIPM) is celebrating its 37th Foundation Day on 12 February 2025, marking nearly four decades of excellence in plant protection and integrated pest management. The 37th Foundation Day promises to be a memorable event, reflecting the Institute’s legacy and vision for the future.

     The event will be attended by the senior officials of the ICAR and renowned agricultural scientist. Dr.RS Paroda, Former Secretary (DARE) and DG-ICAR, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi, has kindly consented to be the Chief Guet for the event Dr. P. K. Chakrabarty, Former Member ASRB & Former ADG (PP&BS), ICAR, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi Dr. S. N. Puri, Former Vice Chancellor, CAU, Imphal & Former, Director, ICAR-NRIIPM, New Delhi; and Dr. Poonam Jasrotia, ADG (PP & BS), ICAR, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi will be gracing the occasion. Dr. BL Jalali, Former Director,

     ICAR-NRIIPM, New Delhi will be deliver the foundation day lecture. Farmers from Delhi-NCR and other part of the Countries collaborating KVKs and their officials are expected in the event. ICAR-NRIIPM has been a pioneer in Integrated Pest Management in crops since its inception in 1988.

    *****

    MG/KSR

    (Release ID: 2101915) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider USTR Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nomination of Jamieson Greer to be United States Trade Representative (USTR).

    As prepared for delivery:

    “We meet today for the Committee’s consideration of Jamieson Greer to be the United States Trade Representative.

    “However, we have a colleague who cannot attend today.  Accordingly, Members may make statements today, but the vote will be held off the Senate floor once a time is confirmed.

    “Regarding Mr. Greer, he demonstrated at the hearing that that he is more than qualified to be our nation’s chief trade negotiator.  Mr. Greer thoughtfully responded to all of the questions posed to him then and in subsequent questions for the record.

    “Based on his answers, conduct at the hearing, and in meeting with him, I am confident that Mr. Greer has the experience and determination to advocate successfully for American farmers, ranchers, workers and manufacturers. 

    “Importantly, he was very clear that he is committed to reporting to and consulting with Congress.

    “Accordingly, I intend to vote in favor of Mr. Greer’s nomination.

    “I strongly encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to do the same.

    “With that, I recognize Ranking Member Wyden for his remarks.”

    MIL OSI USA News –