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  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Responsible Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence Critical, Speakers Say, as Economic and Social Council Concludes Its Coordination Segment

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Amid the fourth industrial revolution, responsible global governance of artificial intelligence (AI) is paramount, the Economic and Social Council heard today as speakers at its 2025 coordination segment explored the transformative potential of data, science, technology and innovation to advance sustainable development.

    The first of the four panel discussions held today — moderated by Mahlet Zeleke Redi, Focal Point of Global Youth Caucus on Decent Work and Sustainable Economies Major Group for Children and Youth — focused on “Creating employment and decent work opportunities for all”.

    It began with a fireside chat featuring José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs, Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), and Cynthia Samuel-Olonjuwon, Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Office for the United Nations.

    Mr. Salazar-Xirinachs, spotlighting the challenge of job creation, said that in the era of technological and AI revolutions, one of the key drivers of investment flows to countries is not just cheap but skilled labour.  Therefore, he stressed, the quality of education and vocational training systems and the digital skills of the labour force are essential for people to get good jobs and for countries to thrive.

    Ms. Samuel-Olonjuwon underscored that prioritizing decent work for young people pays back “sustained and multifaceted dividends” for their families and nations.  Technological transformation is rapidly driving change in the world of work and beyond, she observed, adding that “skills have become a priority”.  Noting the importance of education, training and entrepreneurship for young businesses, she said that policy actions should be guided by the actual needs of young people and “put them in the driver seat”.

    The panel began with Gerd Müller, Director General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), who underscored — via video message — that “creating decent jobs is the core of our mission” to fight poverty and hunger worldwide.  While spotlighting AI’s massive opportunities — including to improve productivity and competitiveness — he underlined the need to “close the existing digital divides”.  More specifically, it is crucial to address the potential downsides of digitalization and automation, including the risk of job losses and shifting production away from developing countries, he stressed, pointing to UNIDO’s projects which equip young people and women in developing countries with technical skills for decent jobs.

    Abdulaziz M. Alwasil (Saudi Arabia), Chair of the Commission on the Status of Women on its sixty-ninth session, stressed that an inclusive society cannot be built without gender equality.  The empowerment of women and girls is paramount, he said, adding that in many countries, women and girls are deprived of equal access to economic opportunities and leadership roles.  “This undermines the resilience of societies,” he stated, underscoring the need to push for policy outcomes that are “not just ambitious in rhetoric but transformative in practice”.

    “We gather here at a moment of profound reckoning” — from the devastating impacts of conflict and rise of authoritarianism to the assaults on fundamental human rights, said Veronica Brown, Women’s Major Group Coordinator for the Women’s Environment and Development Organization.  Warning against forces that aim to roll back hard-won gains in gender equality, she observed:  “Gender equality is too often treated as an add-on rather than a prerequisite for sustainable development.”

    Echoing her concerns, Jemimah Njuki, Chief of the Economic Empowerment section at the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women), said the empowerment of women and girls is not just a moral imperative but a necessity for achieving all of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring a resilient economy.  Nevertheless, women face a 20 per cent gender pay gap and, in many countries, informal employment — where mostly women are to be found — is as high as 90 per cent.  Accordingly, she called for sustainable financing, ensuring that “gender equality remains at the heart of financial systems”.

    Georges-Simon Ulrich, Director General of the Federal Statistical Office of Switzerland and Chair of the Statistical Commission on its fifty-fifth session, speaking via videoconference, called for comprehensive data and statistical systems which permit evidence-based decision-making and detailed the Commission’s work towards supporting inclusive growth strategies and building resilient economies.

    The second panel, moderated by Quintin Chou-Lambert, Senior Adviser to the Under-Secretary-General and Special Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technologies, focused on “Harnessing data, science, technology and innovation to advance digital progress”.

    The fireside chat included Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University, and Tomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

    Ms. Fraser-Moleketi said public administration is responsible for ensuring that AI is used to improve lives.  Governance frameworks must leverage scientific expertise to do this, she said, calling for targeted interventions to address the digital divide and technological exclusion.

    Mr. Lamanauskas said:  “Done right, [AI] can mitigate 5-10 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions by 2030”, and highlighted the “AI for Good summit” which showcases responsible innovation and spotlights AI solutions for each SDG.  He also drew attention to the UN System White Paper on AI Governance, which identifies pre-existing instruments that could also cover AI, from broad ethics to sector-specific technical guidelines. 

    The panel began with Muhammadou M.O. Kah (Gambia), Chair of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development on its twenty-eighth session, who stressed that “when we establish transparent and consistent data governance frameworks, we create an environment of legal certainty that empowers innovators, businesses and consumers alike”.  It is also crucial to establish clear avenues for redress, he said, underscoring the importance of interoperability — “by aligning our legal and technical standards, we could create pathways for seamless data flows that enhance cooperation and facilitate the global exchange of ideas and best practices”.

    Next, Tatiana Molcean, Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE), highlighted its efforts to facilitate trade by streamlining trade-related processes and digitalizing the exchange of information.  ECE hosts the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business, which develops interoperable data exchange standards and policy recommendations, enabling seamless data exchange across systems, borders and value chains.  “Today, many products have AI embedded.  Ensuring their conformity and safety presents new challenges,” she said, adding that ECE has released guidance for regulatory compliance of products and services using embedded AI or other digital technologies.

    Julia Glidden, Group President of Ipsos Public Affairs, said that “it is easy to talk about sexy data-driven topics like GenAI, Edge Computing [and] geospatial intelligence”, but it is also essential to combine established technologies with sophisticated data analytics.  As an example, she said, her organization worked with Mondelez, a multinational food producer, to use data to understand cocoa farmers’ working conditions and economic growth.  Collecting reliable data meant reaching communities in remote areas, often traveling by foot, donkey and canoe to capture and transmit data from areas that often lack electricity, let alone Wi-Fi.  They did so “by using tablet devices enabled by Ipsos’s iField” technology, she added.

    Fernand Bale, Director of the Geographic and Digital Information Center of Côte d’Ivoire, said that because geospatial information integrates diverse data and scientific approaches, it “enables policymakers to process large amounts of data, thereby strengthening the interface between policy and science”.  Communities and Governments can use geospatial information and maps to visualize locations where critical infrastructure is needed, or areas affected by disasters, pollution or biodiversity loss.  By enhancing policies and capacities related to geospatial information, “we democratize access to data and knowledge”, he said.

    Moderated by Lok Bahadur Thapa (Nepal), Vice-President of the Economic and Social Council and co-facilitator of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, the sixth panel focused on “Financing and investment solutions for sustainable development in countries in special situations”.

    The speakers for the fireside chat were Jose Antonio Ocampo, Professor at the School of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University, and Robert Powell, Special Representative of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    Mr. Ocampo noted that levelling the playing field is not enough for countries in special situations.  Debt and tax cooperation are “pressing problems”, he said, calling for interaction between regional and global institutions and urging the fulfilment of historical commitments for developing countries.  He observed that interaction with Governments and monitoring of graduating countries will uncover systemic inequalities on the ground. 

    Mr. Powell, stating that coordination and trust are critical for efficiency across the UN system, said that Member States in New York are responsible for ensuring that “messaging remains consistent”.  Noting that major financial reforms are already taking place, he spotlighted the Fund’s “historic” special drawing rights (SDRs) allocation of $650 billion and the creation of the Resilience and Sustainability Trust.

    The panel began with Rabab Fatima, High Representative for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States, stressing that the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development must deliver a renewed global financing framework.

    For her part, Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), pointing to the term “countries in special situations”, observed that States’ perseverance and transformation potential make them “truly special”.  However, there is nothing “special” about small island developing States defaulting on their development to not default on their debt, she said, calling for maximizing the impact of development on technological progress.

    Mathew Gbonjubola, Co-Chair of the Committee of Experts on International Cooperation in Tax Matters, said that developing countries widely adopt the UN Model Double Taxation Convention.  The Committee also supports capacity-development activities and reviews standards — designed from the point of view of developed economies — through the prism of developing countries.  He added that giving the developing countries the ability to sit at the table in designing the world tax system is key.

    “Although Africa has integrated into the global financial system, its economies remain constrained by limited access to stable financing,” observed Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).  The continent’s debt exceeds $1 trillion, and its countries annually spend millions in debt servicing — “resources that could have been invested in other development priorities”, he noted.  Through the African High-Level Working Group, the Commission works to scale up bank financing and ensure better returns.

    “Over the past two days, we have witnessed the [Economic and Social Council] ecosystem in action, providing ideas and solutions on how to turbocharge implementation as we approach the 2030 deadline of the SDGs,” said Navid Hanif, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, in his closing remarks.  Noting that this year’s coordination segment was the first since the adoption of the Pact for the Future, he said it has delivered “a clear call to strengthen coordination within the UN system, reduce duplication and address misalignment of partnerships”.

    Anatolio Ndong Mba (Equatorial Guinea), Vice-President of the Economic and Social Council and Chair of the Coordination Segment, said that this year’s meeting has demonstrated that political will can elevate international cooperation to new heights and deliver concrete solutions. “The coordination segment is not just about reflection; it is about action and charting the way forward”, he stated, urging those present to carry forward the momentum and translate discussions into action.  He added:  “We have a responsibility to the people we represent.  The time for bold and coordinated leadership cannot be postponed anymore.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Relief Still Available to South Carolina Businesses Hit by Severe Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in South Carolina of the Feb. 28 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by severe storms, high winds and hail that occurred on April 20, 2024. 

    The disaster declaration includes the following counties: Cherokee, Chester, Lancaster, Union and York in South Carolina; and Cleveland, Gaston and Mecklenburg in North Carolina. 

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs that suffered financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises. 

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that would have been paid had the disaster not occurred. 

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amount terms based on each applicant’s financial condition. 

    For more information and to apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. 

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 28, 2025. 

    ### 

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration 

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Relief Remains Available to Tennessee Businesses Hit by Severe Weather in April

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Tennessee of the Feb. 28 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by excessive rain, hail, high winds and lightning that occurred May 8-9, 2024. 

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hancock, Hawkins, Jefferson, Knox and Union. 

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and PNPs that suffered financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises. 

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that would have been paid had the disaster not occurred. 

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amount terms based on each applicant’s financial condition. 

    For more information and to apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. 

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 28, 2025. 

    ### 

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration 

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Cowsert Column: Week Three Under the Gold Dome

    Source: US State of Georgia

    The third week of the 2025 Legislative Session has concluded, and we remain focused on advancing commonsense legislation that prioritizes Georgia’s families, businesses and communities.

    The General Assembly has been hard at work, carefully reviewing agency budget requests to ensure taxpayer dollars are allocated responsibly. As I mentioned last week, passing a balanced budget is our constitutional duty—and the foundation of a responsible government that serves its people.

    This week, our focus shifted to committee meetings. As legislative committees ramp up their work, we are addressing issues that matter most to our communities, from safeguarding our schools to strengthening local infrastructure. I was pleased to participate in meetings of the Senate Rules, Finance, Health and Human Services and Insurance and Labor Committees. I have also been reviewing bills assigned to the Senate Regulated Industries & Utilities Committee, which I chair, to determine which bills should receive committee hearings.

    Tort reform is a key issue that will take center stage in this legislative session. Governor Brian Kemp has made it his top priority for 2025—for good reason. Georgia businesses and their employees are being unfairly burdened by civil lawsuits that result in excessive payouts and create a legal environment that is anything but fair and welcoming to businesses that provide jobs to our citizens. The Governor’s proposals aim to pass meaningful reforms to our civil justice system to make the rules fair for both parties. I’m proud to stand with Gov. Kemp as we work to level the playing field and protect businesses from skyrocketing insurance rates resulting from continued outlandish court rulings and crippling financial judgments.

    But what exactly is tort reform? A tort is a civil wrong for which an aggrieved or injured party can seek monetary compensation through litigation. The most common type of tort is based upon the negligence or carelessness of a person or company that causes harm. The “reforms” are changes in the civil justice system aimed at reducing frivolous lawsuits and limiting excessive damages in personal injury and other civil cases. This complex issue has plagued our state for far too long, and as a result, Georgia has been labeled a “judicial hellhole” by the American Tort Reform Association.

    Consider a few examples of how our current legal system is tilted against hardworking Georgians. Under existing rules of evidence, Georgia jurors are prohibited from knowing whether an injured party in an automobile accident was wearing a seatbelt—a crucial piece of information when evaluating the full context of a case. This is especially important when a person is thrown from a vehicle and killed or severely injured, or when a person slams into the windshield and sustains disfiguring facial scars or a closed head injury. There is a criminal law that requires you to wear your seatbelt for your personal safety. It is negligent for a person to disregard this law and place themselves in danger of injury. However, this information is hidden from the jury and cannot be mentioned by the defense in court. This evidentiary rule will be changed to allow juries to hear evidence of seatbelt use at trial.

    Similarly, under rules of evidence, jurors are often led to believe that plaintiffs are paying medical bills entirely out of pocket when, in reality, insurance may have already covered significant portions of their medical expenses. All Americans are now required to have medical insurance under the provisions of the Affordable Care Act. The cost of premiums is subsidized if they cannot afford them, and this coverage applies to pre-existing injuries. Medical providers negotiate with insurers to accept discounted payments from insurers as full compensation for their services. However, juries are only informed of the inflated original amounts of the bills. This allows plaintiffs and their attorneys to receive windfalls by recovering damages for expenses never incurred. This rule will be changed to allow juries to hear the truth about medical expenses actually incurred by plaintiffs and reflect the true amount of their damages awarded in verdicts.

    Another important provision of the civil justice reform bill is relief for businesses from lawsuits brought to recover for injuries while on the premises of a business open to the public. Existing laws allow persons injured by criminal actions committed on business premises to hold the business responsible if the business failed to make their premises safe for customers. This duty to keep the premises safe for customers arises when the property owner is aware of criminal activity in the area and fails to take reasonable steps to protect the safety of its customers. The result is that businesses end up having to spend significant amounts on private security to protect customers from criminal harm since if someone is injured or killed they sue both the property owner and the criminal actor. The jury is allowed to apportion the verdict between the defendants in accordance with their respective percentage of fault. However, juries know that the business has the deep pockets to pay a verdict whereas the criminal probably doesn’t. As crazy as it seems, skillful trial attorneys have been able to persuade juries that the business is 95% at fault while the criminal is held to be only 5% at fault. This bill will guarantee that business owners are not responsible for criminal acts occurring off of the premises. In addition, under no circumstances shall a business be held more than 50% responsible for the defendant’s injuries caused by a criminal on its property. These, and other changes, will help make sure that businesses do not close in high crime (often primarily minority) neighborhoods. This is one reason that Democratic legislators will join with Republicans in protecting all Georgians from business closings caused by the current legal environment.

    I was honored to stand alongside Gov. Kemp this week as these issues were addressed at one of the largest press conferences ever held under the Gold Dome. There were citizens from many professions (truck drivers, factory workers, medical professionals and business owners) that came to the Capitol to express their support for this civil justice reform legislation. This issue is critically important to countless hardworking Georgians. I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to advance meaningful civil justice reform throughout this legislative session in an effort to restore balance and fairness for the civil justice system.

    As always, if you have any questions, concerns, or ideas about our work at the Capitol, please do not hesitate to reach out. It is an honor to serve you, and I appreciate your trust as we continue working together throughout the 2025 legislative session.

    # # # #

    Sen. Bill Cowsert serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Regulated Industries and Utilities. He represents the 46th Senate District which includes portions of Barrow, Clarke, Gwinnett, Oconee and Walton Counties. He may be reached at (404) 463-1366 or via email at bill.cowsert@senate.ga.gov

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell, Colleagues Call for Reinstatement of Inspectors General Illegally Fired by President Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    02.07.25

    Cantwell, Colleagues Call for Reinstatement of Inspectors General Illegally Fired by President Trump

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined a group of 37 senators writing to President Trump strongly condemning the President’s recent order to remove Inspectors General (IGs) from at least 18 government agencies and called on the President to immediately reinstate the officials.

    According to the Inspector General Independence and Empowerment Act, which was signed into law in 2022, the President is required to provide a 30-day notice and substantive reasons for removal in writing to Congress before an Inspector General can be removed. President Trump failed to alert Congress or provide substantive reasoning.

    “These officials, which include those appointed by Presidents of both parties, including many during your first Administration, collectively conduct oversight of trillions of dollars of federal spending and the conduct of millions of federal employees,” wrote the senators. “Removing these non-partisan watchdogs without providing a substantive and non-political reason is not lawful, and undermines their independence, jeopardizing their critical mission to identify and root out waste, fraud, and abuse within federal programs.”

    The senators continued, “While the President has the authority to remove Inspectors General from office, Congress has established clear requirements to ensure such removals are transparent and are not politicized.  The law requires that the President provide a written 30-day notice to both Houses of Congress and include “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons for any such removal or transfer.” With respect to your firings Friday night, Congress has not received either the mandatory 30-day notice or a rationale for their removal. Because your actions violated the law, these Inspectors General should be reinstated immediately.”

    IGs are responsible for providing independent oversight of federal programs and play a key role in improving government efficiency and effectiveness. IGs were removed from at least 18 departments and agencies, including Departments of Defense, State, Education, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Energy, Commerce, Agriculture, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury, and the Environmental Protection Agency, the Office of Personnel Management, the Small Business Administration, the Social Security Administration, and the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction.

    The letter was led by U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) and U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA). In addition to Sen. Cantwell, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Ed Markey (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), and John Fetterman (D-PA). 

    The full text of the letter is available HERE and below.

    Dear Mr. President,  

    Your decision Friday evening to remove Inspectors General (IGs) from at least 18 offices across government—including those overseeing the Departments of Defense, State, Education, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Energy, Commerce, Agriculture, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury, and the Environmental Protection Agency, the Office of Personnel Management, the Small Business Administration, and the Social Security Administration, as well as the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction—does not comply with current law and could do lasting harm to IG independence.  These officials, which include those appointed by Presidents of both parties, including many during your first Administration, collectively conduct oversight of trillions of dollars of federal spending and the conduct of millions of federal employees.  Removing these non-partisan watchdogs without providing a substantive and non-political reason is not lawful, and undermines their independence, jeopardizing their critical mission to identify and root out waste, fraud, and abuse within federal programs. 

    Inspectors General are responsible for providing independent oversight of federal programs by working to root out waste, fraud, and abuse and protect taxpayer dollars – oversight our federal agencies desperately need.  They play a key role in improving government efficiency and effectiveness and have helped identify and recover billions of taxpayer dollars.  IG independence is the foundation of this work, and IGs must be free of political influence so that they can carry out their important mission with integrity and credibility.  The federal government and the American people count on these officials to operate in a professional and non-partisan way to hold our government accountable—regardless of who is in power.  Without strong, qualified, and independent officials to lead these critical efforts, the Administration risks wasting taxpayer dollars, and allowing fraud and misconduct to go unchecked. For example, just this week the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued an unlawful memo directing agencies to pause nearly all federal grants and loans, which significantly disrupts the administration of over a trillion dollars of critical assistance to communities, businesses, and organizations across the country.  It is especially vital to have independent watchdogs at each of these agencies to conduct oversight of the impacts of this unconstitutional and unprecedented directive.     

    While the President has the authority to remove Inspectors General from office, Congress has established clear requirements to ensure such removals are transparent and are not politicized.  The law requires that the President provide a written 30-day notice to both Houses of Congress and include “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons for any such removal or transfer.” With respect to your firings Friday night, Congress has not received either the mandatory 30-day notice or a rationale for their removal.  Because your actions violated the law, these Inspectors General should be reinstated immediately, until such time as you have provided in writing “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons” for each of the affected Inspectors General and the 30-day notice period has expired.   

    Lastly, if you believe it is necessary to place any of the affected IGs on administrative leave before the 30-day notice period has ended, the law requires that you submit a separate notification to Congress explaining how the IG presents a threat as defined in the Administrative Leave Act. 

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister announces the appointment of senators

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Governor General, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, appointed the following individuals as independent senators to fill vacancies in the Senate:

    • Baltej Dhillon, for British Columbia
    • Martine Hébert, for Quebec
    • Todd Lewis, for Saskatchewan

    Baltej Dhillon is a retired career police officer, a community leader, and a lifelong advocate for diversity and inclusion. In 1991, Mr. Dhillon made history as the first Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer to wear a turban. He went on to have a successful 30-year career with the RCMP, playing a key role in several high-profile investigations. Since 2019, he has worked with British Columbia’s anti-gang agency, while remaining active in his community as a youth leader.

    Martine Hébert is a renowned economist, former Quebec diplomat, and public figure with over 25 years of experience in economic relations, governance, and public affairs. She has made significant contributions to the economic development of Quebec and Canada, notably during her time as Quebec’s Delegate to Chicago and later to New York City. She is also the former Senior Vice-President and National French Spokesperson for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.

    Todd Lewis is a fourth-generation farmer and a dedicated champion for Saskatchewan’s agricultural community. He is the former President of the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan and currently serves as the first Vice-President of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture. A lifelong volunteer, he has been a strong voice for his community on numerous boards and working groups, and he continues to give back through his work as  a municipal councillor.

    These new senators were recommended by the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments and chosen using a merit-based process open to all Canadians. Introduced in 2016, this process ensures senators are independent and able to tackle the broad range of challenges and opportunities facing the country.

    Quote

    “Congratulations to Mr. Dhillon, Ms. Hébert, and Mr. Lewis on their appointment as Parliament’s newest independent senators. Their broad range of experience will be a great benefit to the Senate, and I am confident they will continue to be strong voices for their communities.”

    Quick Facts

    • The Senate is the Upper House in Canada’s parliamentary democracy.
    • Candidate submissions were reviewed by the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments, which provided recommendations to the Prime Minister. The Board is guided in its work by public, transparent, non-partisan, and merit-based criteria to identify highly qualified candidates for the Senate.
    • With today’s announcement, there have been 93 independent appointments to the Senate made on the advice of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. All of them were recommended by the Board.
    • Under the Canadian Constitution, the Governor General appoints individuals to the Senate. By convention, senators are appointed on the advice of the Prime Minister.
    • Once appointed by the Governor General, new senators join their peers to examine and revise legislation, investigate national issues, and represent regional, provincial and territorial, and minority interests – important functions in a modern democracy.

    Biographical Notes

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Reverend Warnock Presses USTR Nominee for Commitments to Protect Georgia’s Green Energy Economy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock Presses USTR Nominee for Commitments to Protect Georgia’s Green Energy Economy

    During a Thursday Finance committee hearing, Senator Reverend Warnock questioned Jamieson Greer during his nomination to be the United States Trade Representative (USTR)
    Senator Reverend Warnock highlighted the importance of Georgia’s clean energy economy and the thousands of jobs that support it 
    Greer is a partner in the International Trade team at King & Spalding, which is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “I’m excited about the investments in solar energy in Georgia. I’m also proud that Georgia, in many ways, is leading the country in building electric cars entirely in the United States, employing thousands of Georgians”

    Watch video of Senator Reverend Warnock’s questioning HERE
    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, during a Senate Finance committee hearing on Jamieson Greer’s nomination to be the United States Trade Representative (USTR), U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) pressed Greer on his commitment to protecting and bolstering Georgia’s clean energy economy.
    During Senator Warnock’s line of questions, he also highlighted the importance of the boon to Georgia’s economy that the clean energy market provides.
    “Down near my hometown where the Kia plant opened, we’ve got about 9,000 more jobs that have been created in that area. A major economic boon,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. 
    Senator Warnock has continuously fought to deliver robust clean energy investments to communities across Georgia. Last year, heannounced over $700,000 in federal investments to help farmers, ranchers, and rural business owners upgrade their energy systems with sustainable solar and electric energy alternatives to help lower their energy costs. Additionally, the Senator played an instrumental role in securing landmark investments to expand the nation’s fleet of clean electric school buses, including delivering over $60 million for electric school buses for Georgia. In the Inflation Reeducation Act, Senator Warnock secured incentives for domestic solar manufacturing, which will help create more clean energy jobs, as well his plan to promote the creation of sustainable aviation fuel. 
    Watch the Senator’s full remarks and line of questioning HERE.
    See below a transcript of key exchanges between Senator Warnock and nominee Jamieson Greer:
    Senator Reverend Warnock (SRW): “In our meeting, we discussed the importance of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and its clean energy investments in Georgia. I enjoyed our conversation very much. Welcome and congratulations to you, and to your family.”
    “We talked about these provisions in the IRA. The state of Georgia has seen growth in our advanced manufacturing sector, with both domestic companies and foreign companies making significant investments, due in large measure to the IRA’s clean energy investments, bringing a lot of jobs to Georgia.”
    “One of the things I’m very proud of as a lifelong native of Georgia is that little Dalton, Georgia known as the carpet capital of the world. If you are walking on a floor anywhere, there is a good chance you are walking on something that was created in Dalton, Georgia. But who would have imagined that Dalton, Georgia would become such a leader in the manufacturing of solar panels? This is due to the Korean solar manufacturer, Qcells, bringing thousands of jobs to Georgia, creating a domestic solar industry, almost entirely free of Chinese supply chains.” 
    “However, it needs trade protections to compete against a heavily subsidized Chinese industry. If confirmed as the nation’s trade representative, how would you work to protect and grow domestic solar and clean energy manufacturing to ensure our supply chain does not depend on China?” 
    Jamieson Greer (JG): “Thank you, senator. I’m glad to hear you express concern and interest in this, these are things I am concerned about too.”
    “To the extent that there is going to be energy products manufactured and used in the United States, it would be great to have them made here. And that we’re not using panels that come from China, and in some instances might include products of subsidies or forced labor. The first Trump Administration did a safeguard tariff. The Commerce Department for many years has had other tariffs in place and I think that those can be effective tools.”
    “You have testified to this, that we have new protections in the United States. Europe did not have these protections in place and they saw their solar industry go away. I’m very interested in maintaining and exploring those possibilities to ensure we have that production here.”
    SRW: “I appreciate that, and I look forward to continuing to have that conversation. I’m excited about the investments in solar energy in Georgia. I’m also proud that Georgia, in many ways, is leading the country in building electric cars, entirely in the United States, employing thousands of Georgians. Down near my hometown where the Kia plant opened, we’ve got about 9,000 more jobs that have been created in that area. A major economic boon.” 
    “President Trump and congressional Republicans have bragged about repealing federal investments in the green economy that have created these jobs. Jobs that have bipartisan support in my state. I support what we’re doing there, the Republican Governor supports it. This is a top bipartisan economic issue in Georgia. It’s about American manufacturing.” 
    “If confirmed, how will you use your position to protect the investments and thousands of jobs, jobs that foreign car companies have brought to Georgia?” 
    JG: “My role and my jurisdiction in the administration is to negotiate trade deals where appropriate and do trade enforcement as necessary which is certainly an area where I want to make sure any manufacturing you have doesn’t have to compete unfairly with foreign product.”
    “With respect to other incentives or other legislation, that is something that I believe the Treasury Department and the Energy Department, the President and Congress will determine the path forward.” 
    SRW: “Would you agree that if we seed that space, that it is not a net positive result for American businesses?”
    JG: “We need to have advance manufacturing in the United States as much as possible whether it is traditional or electric vehicles or solar panels.” 
    SRW: “So ideology around clean energy should not stop us from doing what is necessary.”
    JG: “If we are going to have manufacturers making clean energy, that makes sense, and broader energy policy, we should be making those things here.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Heinrich, Luján, Colleagues Call on Trump Administration to End Harmful Freeze on Health Communications and Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Senators emphasize the damage Trump’s freeze on funding has already inflicted on patient care and public health oversight

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined 34 Senate Democrats to call on Acting Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Dorothy Fink to end the unprecedented freeze on all external communications and funding at HHS.

    This freeze has disrupted clinical trials and prevented HHS operating divisions, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), from communicating with patient groups and scientific advisory committees without a plan for restoration. The directive prohibits agencies from issuing vital public health advisories, publishing scientific reports, updating websites, announcing regulatory decisions, and distributing federal grants. CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), considered the nation’s premier publication for disseminating public health updates, is delayed for the first time in over 60 years. This political interference is a threat to public health.

    “We write to express our deep concern over the administration’s recent decision to freeze external communications and suspend federal health funding at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS),” wrote the senators. “The abrupt order has already disrupted patient care, public health oversight, halted medical research funding, and obstructed critical regulatory processes.”

    “This political interference in public health agencies is unprecedented and unacceptable. … The American people depend on HHS agencies to provide accurate, real-time information about disease outbreaks, medical research, and regulatory decisions. We urge you to immediately reverse this harmful decision,” the senators continued.

    The letter was led by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.). Alongside Heinrich and Luján, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Minn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass,), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    The full text of the letter is available here and below.

    Dear Acting Secretary Fink:

    We write to express our deep concern over the Administration’s recent decision to freeze external communications and suspend federal health funding at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The abrupt order has already disrupted patient care, public health oversight, halted medical research funding, and obstructed critical regulatory processes.

    On January 22, all 13 HHS operating divisions – including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) were told to immediately “pause” all external communications and grant disbursements until at least February 1, with no clear plan for restoration. This directive prohibits agencies from issuing public health advisories, publishing scientific reports, updating websites, announcing regulatory decisions, or conducting outreach to patient groups – unless such activity is explicitly approved by politically appointed leadership.

    With the Administration’s own deadline having passed, it remains unclear when these restrictions will be lifted. While limited exceptions exist for critical health, safety, or national security concerns, the freeze has already severely impeded essential public health and biomedical research functions.

    The CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), the nation’s premier publication for disseminating public health updates, was abruptly delayed for the first time in over 60 years, limiting reporting on the H5N1 bird flu outbreak and other emerging infectious disease threats. The MMWR often includes clinical recommendations for doctors, such as guidance on how to treat diseases that are currently circulating in the United States – and delaying the MMWR means that doctors may not have all the latest information they need to keep their patients healthy.

    At the NIH, new clinical trials have been delayed and external peer-review grant processes have faced disruptions. NIH study sections – which legally must review grant applications before funding can be disbursed – were initially canceled, creating uncertainty about when federal research funds will be awarded. Despite efforts by the Administration to provide clarity, it remains unclear whether the full peer-review process has resumed and how long grant funding decisions will continue to be delayed. This uncertainty has placed billions in federal research funds in limbo, directly threatening ongoing medical studies and academic research programs.

    The freeze has also blocked NIH from engaging with patient groups on ways to recruit participants into ongoing clinical trials. This means that patients with rare diseases, cancer, and other serious conditions who rely on clinical trials for treatments may be prevented from enrolling, directly jeopardizing their access to life-saving care.

    This political interference in public health agencies is unprecedented and unacceptable. While it is not unusual for a new administration to conduct brief reviews of existing programs, no past transition has implemented a blanket freeze of this magnitude.

    Accordingly, we request an immediate and detailed response to the following questions by Monday, February 10:

    Provide a full accounting of all scientific reports, disease surveillance updates, grant decisions, public health advisories, events, calls, research reviews, reports, issue briefs, inspections, surveys, and postings that have been postponed or cancelled since noon on January 20.

    Which of the postponed or cancelled items will be rescheduled or published, and by what date?

    Has the pause affected communications between HHS and other federal Departments or state agencies, such as the Department of Agriculture. If so, in what capacity?

    Can you confirm that all external communications, including those listed above in your answer to the first question, have already resumed or will resume by February 10? If not, please provide a detailed explanation for any continued delay.

    Has the communications and funding freeze affected the department’s ability to respond promptly to public health threats and ongoing outbreaks? If so, in what ways?

    Given that we are at the height of virus season, how has this pause affected the department’s ability to fulfill its core mission of protecting public health?

    The American people depend on HHS agencies to provide accurate, real-time information about disease outbreaks, medical research, and regulatory decisions. We urge you to immediately reverse this harmful decision.

    Thank you for your prompt attention to this request. We look forward to your response and to working with the Department to protect public health and ensure Americans can get the care they need.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Agriculture Recovery Center to Open Friday in Ashe County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Agriculture Recovery Center to Open Friday in Ashe County

    Agriculture Recovery Center to Open Friday in Ashe County

    HICKORY, N.C. – A one-day Agriculture Recovery Center will operate in Ashe County Friday at Wilkes Community College-Ashe Campus (Kent Poe Hall) to help farmers recover from Tropical Storm Helene.Two other centers will operate this week in Avery and Yancey counties. All centers are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.These walk-through events will provide information on addressing agricultural or rural needs that are not covered by standard programs offered by FEMA or the state and offer opportunities for farmers, ranchers, nursery owners, vineyards, honeybee growers and fish producers to meet with agricultural officials to learn about specific assistance available as they recover.  The centers have representatives from FEMA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, North Carolina Department of Commerce and Natural Resources, U.S. Small Business Administration, local Farm Service Agency offices and other government agencies.  Farmers are asked to bring documentation of ownership, photos of damaged or lost tools and equipment, along with estimated replacement costs to expedite an application.  For more information: Help for Self-Employed.The schedule: Feb. 5Avery County:Avery Cooperative Extension Office661 Vale Rd.Newland, NC  28657 Feb. 6Yancey CountyYancey County Senior Center503 Medical Campus Dr.Burnsville, NC 28714 Feb. 7Ashe CountyWilkes Community College-Ashe Campus (Kent Poe Hall)363 Campus Dr.West Jefferson, NC 28694
    joseph.arbid
    Fri, 02/07/2025 – 13:38

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Spanish Government’s dereliction of duty in applying for aid and other instruments to compensate the victims of the natural disaster in Valencia – P-002462/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In the context of the devastating floods in eastern Spain, Spain proactively requested the activation of the EU Copernicus satellite mapping system[1] on 29 October 2024 and over 80 satellite maps have been produced.

    Spain also activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism[2] on 8 November 20 24 and s everal other Member States offered support in that framework. The Commission also deployed two liaison officers.

    Spain can also apply for a financial contribution from the EU Solidarity Fund[3]. If and when adopted by co-legislators, Spain may also benefit from the flexibilities proposed under the cohesion policy framework in the framework of the recent legislative proposal on the Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction[4].

    Within the European Social Fund Plus[5], flexibilities are proposed to provide immediate support for food and basic assistance, access to healthcare and financing of short-time work schemes .

    Support may be provided from other EU funding instruments, such as those under the common agricultural policy[6] including the mobilisation of the Agricultural Reserve or under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development[7] for which the recent legislative proposal[8] also provides additional liquidity support to farmers, forest holders and small and medium-sized enterprises affected by natural disasters, still to be implemented under the Rural Development Programmes 2014 — 2022.

    The recovery and resilience plan of Spain can also be modified in line with the procedures of the Recovery and Resilience Facility[9] to introduce measures covering reconstruction efforts.

    It is the prerogative of the Member State concerned to decide whether and when to request EU assistance.

    • [1] https://emergency.copernicus.eu/mapping/#zoom=2&lat=13.56036&lon=33.82273&layers=0BT00
    • [2] https://civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu/what/civil-protection/eu-civil-protection-mechanism_en
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/solidarity-fund_en
    • [4] Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council RESTORE — Regional Emergency Support to Reconstruction amending Regulation (EU) 2021/1058 and Regulation (EU) 2021/1057, COM(2024) 496 final.
    • [5] https://european-social-fund-plus.ec.europa.eu/en
    • [6] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/common-agricultural-policy_en
    • [7] https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/find-funding/eu-funding-programmes/european-agricultural-fund-rural-development-eafrd_en
    • [8] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=COM%3A2024%3A495%3AFIN
    • [9] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility_en
    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU response to the Scirtothrips aurantii infestation and citrus fruit imports from South Africa – E-000438/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000438/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Verts/ALE)

    Scirtothrips aurantii is a pest that was first found in the EU in 2020. Since 2024, it has spread rapidly and is now infesting key crops such as citrus fruit, persimmon, grape and pomegranate in 325 Valencian municipalities. This pest, originally from South Africa and now found in other African countries, Australia and Yemen, most likely arrived in the EU through citrus fruit imports. It hits farmers in the pocket since the fruit now has a lower value, and increased plant health costs are currently borne by producers. Scirtothrips aurantii is included on EPPO’s A1 list and is classified as a quarantine pest in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/2072.

    In light of this:

    • 1.What urgent measures will the Commission take to increase plant health checks on imports of plants from countries in which Scirtothrips aurantii is endemic, such as South Africa?
    • 2.Will a mandatory refrigeration be imposed for these imports and will Scirtothrips aurantii be added to the EU’s list of priority pests to ensure a more coordinated approach?
    • 3.Which clauses in the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement will be activated to require more stringent certifications and treatments or checks at the point of origin for citrus imports?

    Submitted: 31.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IMPACT OF UNSEASONAL RAINFALL AND EXTREME WEATHER ON AGRICULTURE

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 6:30PM by PIB Delhi

    As per the National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM), the primary responsibility for disaster management, including disbursal of relief assistance on ground level, rests with the State Governments concerned. The State Governments undertake relief measures in the wake of natural calamities, from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) already placed at their disposal, in accordance with Government of India’s approved items and norms. The Central Government supplements the efforts of the State Governments and provides requisite logistics and financial support. Additional financial assistance is provided from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), as per laid down procedure, in case of disaster of ‘severe nature’, which includes an assessment based on the visit of an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT). The financial assistance provided under SDRF and NDRF is by way of relief and not for compensation.

    Data regarding crop losses due to any natural calamities is not maintained centrally. However, as per information received from States, the details of crop losses due to hydro-meteorological disasters during 2024-25 are at ‘Annexure’.

    The details of funds allocated and released under SDRF/NDRF during the current financial year i.e. 2024-25 available at the website of this Ministry i.e. www.ndmindia.mha.gov.in.

    Government has introduced yield-based Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and weather index based Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) from Kharif 2016 to provide financial support to farmers suffering crop loss/damage arising out of natural calamities, adverse weather incidence and to stabilize the income of farmers etc.    Comprehensive risk insurance is provided under the scheme from pre-sowing to post-harvest losses.

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

    Since inception of the schemes in 2016, the amounts of claims paid under PMFBY and RWBCIS is Rs. 172138 crores to 19.59 crore no. of farmer applications.

    Details of damages as reported by State/UT due to hydro-meteorological disasters during the year 2024-25

    Provisional (as on 27.01.2025)

     

    S. No.

    State

    Cropped Area affected (in lakh ha.)

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    0.11

    2

    Arunachal Pradesh

    –

    3

    Assam

    1.38

    4

    Bihar

    –

    5

    Chhattisgarh

    –

    6

    Goa

    –

    7

    Gujarat

    –

    8

    Haryana

    –

    9

    Himachal Pradesh

    –

    10

    Karnataka

    2.86

    11

    Kerala

    –

    12

    Madhya Pradesh

    –

    13

    Maharashtra

    –

    14

    Manipur

    0.01

    15

    Meghalaya

    0.01

    16

    Mizoram

    0.21

    17

    Nagaland

    0.03

    18

    Odisha

    0.22

    19

    Punjab

    –

    20

    Rajasthan

    –

    21

    Sikkim

    –

    22

    Tamil Nadu

    4.00

    23

    Telangana

    –

    24

    Tripura

    –

    25

    Uttar Pradesh

    3.95

    26

    Uttarakhand

    0.05

    27

    West Bengal

    1.38

    28

    Delhi

    –

    29

    Jammu & Kashmir

    0.02

    30

    Puducherry

    0.01

     

    Total

    14.24

     

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

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PROVISION OF MARKET FACILITY UNDER DAM

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 6:28PM by PIB Delhi

    The government has approved the Digital Agriculture Mission on 2nd September 2024 with an outlay of Rs. 2817 Crore. The mission seeks to enable a robust digital agriculture ecosystem in the country for driving innovative farmer-centric digital solutions and making available timely and reliable crop-related information to all the farmers in the country. The Mission envisages the creation of Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture such as AgriStack, Krishi Decision Support System, Comprehensive Soil Fertility & Profile Map and other IT initiatives undertaken by Central Government/State Governments. AgriStack project is one of the major components of this Mission, which consists of three foundational registries or databases in the agriculture sector, i.e., the Farmers’ Registry, Geo-referenced village maps and the Crop Sown Registry, all created and maintained by the State Governments/ Union Territories. The government is providing administrative and technical support to all the states for implementation of the mission. AgriStack provides comprehensive and useful data on farmers’ demographic details, land holdings, and crops sown, enabling farmers to digitally identify and authenticate them for accessing benefits and services such as credit, insurance, procurement etc. It also enables state to design solutions that open access for farmers to the digital economy such as Purchase and Sell of Inputs and Produce online in a trustful manner.

    Further, Government is implementing National Agriculture Market (e-NAM), a virtual platform integrating physical wholesale mandis/ markets of different States/ Union Territories (UTs) to facilitate online trading of agricultural commodities through transparent price discovery method to enable farmers to realize better remunerative prices for their produce. As on 31stDecember, 2024, 1410 mandis of 23 States and 04 Union Territories (UTs) have been integrated with e-NAM platform.

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

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Assessment of impact of PM-KISAN

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

    Assessment of impact of PM-KISAN

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 6:27PM by PIB Delhi

    The PM-KISAN scheme is a central sector scheme launched in February 2019 by the Hon’ble Prime Minister to supplement the financial needs of land-holding farmers. Under the scheme, a financial benefit of Rs 6,000/- per year is transferred in three equal instalments, into the Aadhaar seeded bank accounts of farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.

    A farmer-centric digital infrastructure has ensured the benefits of the scheme reach all the farmers across the country without involvement of any middlemen. Maintaining absolute transparency in registering and verifying beneficiaries, the Government of India has disbursed over Rs 3.46 lakh Cr. in 18 installments since inception.

    The Government of India is committed to include all eligible left out farmers in the Scheme and to saturate the scheme with all eligible farmers, the Government has launched several campaigns. A major saturation drive was taken up from the 15th Nov 2023, under the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, with more than 1 Cr. eligible farmers included under the scheme. The Government of India also undertook another saturation drive from June, 2024 and within first 100 days of the new Government, over 25 lakh eligible farmers were included in the Scheme. With the significant efforts taken by the Government, the number of beneficiaries who have received benefits in the 18th instalment increased to 9.59 Cr.The State-wise details of the beneficiaries benefited through the 18th instalment of the PM-Kisan is attached at Annexure-1.

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

    Annexure

    Number of beneficiaries benefitted under PM-KISAN during 18th instalment (August 2024-November 2024)

    State Name

    No. of Beneficiaries

    ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS

    12,832

    ANDHRA PRADESH

    41,22,499

    ARUNACHAL PRADESH

    90,464

    ASSAM

    18,87,562

    BIHAR

    75,81,009

    CHANDIGARH

     

    CHHATTISGARH

    25,07,735

    DELHI

    10,829

    GOA

    6,333

    GUJARAT

    49,12,366

    HARYANA

    15,99,844

    HIMACHAL PRADESH

    8,17,537

    JAMMU AND KASHMIR

    8,58,630

    JHARKHAND

    19,97,366

    KARNATAKA

    43,48,125

    KERALA

    28,15,211

    LADAKH

    18,207

    LAKSHADWEEP

    2,198

    MADHYA PRADESH

    81,37,378

    MAHARASHTRA

    91,43,515

    MANIPUR

    85,932

    MEGHALAYA

    1,50,413

    MIZORAM

    1,10,960

    NAGALAND

    1,71,920

    ODISHA

    31,50,640

    PUDUCHERRY

    8,033

    PUNJAB

    9,26,106

    RAJASTHAN

    70,32,020

    SIKKIM

    28,103

    TAMIL NADU

    21,94,651

    TELANGANA

    30,77,426

    THE DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI AND DAMAN AND DIU

    11,587

    TRIPURA

    2,29,362

    UTTAR PRADESH

    2,25,78,654

    UTTARAKHAND

    7,96,973

    WEST BENGAL

    45,03,158

    Grand Total

    9,59,25,578

     

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

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    MG/KSR/489

    (Release ID: 2100758)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Contract Farming

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 6:26PM by PIB Delhi

    Agriculture and Agriculture Marketing is a state subject. 15 States and Union Territories (UTs) have made enabling provisions for contract farming provisions in their APMC Acts.  Contract farming, inter alia, provides for an institutional arrangement for registration of sponsoring companies, recording of contract farming agreements and indemnity to farmers’ land.  Any disputes arising out of contract are resolved as per the arbitration and dispute resolution mechanism specified therein.

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

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Use of AI in agriculture

    Source: Government of India

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

    The Government has employed Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods to address various challenges in the agricultural sector to aid farmers. Some of the initiatives are given below:

    1. ‘Kisan e-Mitra’, an AI-powered chatbot, has been developed to assist farmers with responses to the queries about the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. This solution supports multiple languages and is evolving to assist with other government programs.
    2. National Pest Surveillance System, for tackling the loss of produce due to climate change, utilizes AI and Machine Learning to detect pest infestation in crop issues, enabling timely intervention for healthier crops.
    3. AI based analytics using field photographs for crop health assessment and crop health monitoring using Satellite, weather & soil moisture datasets for rice and wheat crop.

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

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Various steps have been taken to promote the use of nano Fertilizers amongst the farmers by the Department of Fertilizers

    Source: Government of India

    Various steps have been taken to promote the use of nano Fertilizers amongst the farmers by the Department of Fertilizers

    Maha Abhiyan for adoption of Nano DAP in all 15 agro-climatic zones of the country through consultations and field level demonstrations

    Spraying of Nano fertilizers through drones – a cost-effective method

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 5:42PM by PIB Delhi

    In order to promote the use of Nano Fertilizers amongst the farmers, the following steps have been taken:

    1. Use of Nano Urea is promoted through different activities such as awareness camps, webinars, nukkad nataks, field demonstrations, Kisan Sammelans and films in regional languages etc.
    2. Nano Urea and Nano DAP are made available at Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendras (PMKSKs) by concerned companies.
    3. Nano Urea has been included under monthly supply plan issued by Department of Fertilizers regularly.
    4. ICAR through Indian Institute of Soil Science, Bhopal recently organized National Campaign on “Efficient and Balanced Use of Fertilizer (including Nano-fertilizers)”.
    5. Promotion of use of nano fertilizers was done during the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY) which was launched on 15th November, 2023.
    6. For ease in application and utilization of Nano fertilizers like Nano Urea through foliar application, initiatives such as spraying of Nano Urea through drones and distribution of battery operated Sprayers at retail points are undertaken. For this purpose, pilot training and custom hiring spraying services through Village Level Entrepreneurs are actively promoted.
    7. DoF in collaboration with fertilizer companies has initiated a Maha Abhiyan for adoption of Nano DAP in all 15 agro-climatic zones of the country through consultations and field level demonstrations.  Further, DoF in collaboration with fertilizer companies has also launched campaign for field level demonstrations and awareness programs of Nano Urea plus in 100 districts of the country.

    At present, there is no provision for subsidy by Department of Fertilizers. However, DoF is encouraging its companies to set up Nano fertilizer plants.

    Spraying of Nano fertilizers through drones has emerged as a cost effective method.  During the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, farmers had shown interest in adopting this new technology of spraying.

    At present, there is no proposal to bring production of nano fertilizers under any Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.

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

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    MV/AKS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Advancing Mental Healthcare in India

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 5:26PM by PIB Delhi

    “India’s vision of good health implies not just being free of disease but to ensure wellness and welfare for everyone. The goal is to ensure physical, mental and social wellbeing.”

                                                                           Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India

    What is Mental Health

    Mental health refers to an individual’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how people think, feel, and behave in daily life. It also affects decision-making, stress management, and relationships. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.

    Impact of Poor Mental Health

    • Impact on Productivity: Poor mental health leads to lower workplace performance, increased absenteeism, and reduced efficiency.
    • Social and Emotional Well-being: Mental well-being affects interpersonal relationships, self-confidence, and social interactions.
    • Economic Impact: According to WHO, mental disorders contribute significantly to the global burden of disease, and untreated conditions can lead to high economic costs.

    Mental Health Scenario in India

    • WHO Data Insight
      • India contributes to 18% of the global population. WHO estimates that the burden of mental health problems in India is 2443 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per 10000 population; the age-adjusted suicide rate per 100000 population is 21.1. The economic loss due to mental health conditions, between 2012-2030, is estimated at USD 1.03 trillion.
    • Prevalence:
      • The National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) 2015-16 by NIMHANS found that 10.6% of adults in India suffer from mental disorders.
      • The lifetime prevalence of mental disorders in India is 13.7%.
      • National studies reveal that 15% of India’s adult population experiences mental health issues requiring intervention.
      • Urban areas have a higher prevalence (13.5%) compared to rural (6.9%).
    • Treatment Gap
      • 70% to 92% of people with mental disorders do not receive proper treatment due to lack of awareness, stigma, and shortage of professionals.
      • According to the Indian Journal of Psychiatry India has 0.75 psychiatrists per 100,000 people, whereas WHO recommends at least 3 per 100,000.

    Insights from Economic Survey 2024-25

    Mental wellbeing is the ability to navigate life’s challenges and function productively. Recognising its importance, Economic Survey 2024-25 highlighted that Mental well-being encompasses all our mental-emotional, social, cognitive, and physical capabilities. This can also be construed as the mind’s composite health. It emphasised a whole of community approach to tackling mental health problems and stated that it is about time to find viable, impactful preventive strategies and interventions. India’s demographic dividend is riding on skills, education, physical health and, above all, mental health of its youth.

    The Economic Survey 2024-25 suggested:

    1. Enhance Mental Health Education in Schools: Early intervention strategies to address anxiety, stress, and behavioural issues in students.
    2. Improve Workplace Mental Health Policies: Address job stress, long working hours, and burnout.
    3. Expand Digital Mental Health Services: Strengthen Tele MANAS and integrate AI-based mental health solutions.

    Mental Health Infrastructure in India

    • As part of the National Mental Health Programme, in 2024, 25 Centres of Excellence were sanctioned set up to train more postgraduate students in mental health and provide advanced treatment.
    • 47 PG Departments in mental health have been established or upgraded in 19 government medical colleges. Mental health services are also being introduced in 22 newly established AIIMS.
    • 47 Government-Run Mental Hospitals including 3 Central Mental Health Institutions, viz. National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bengaluru, Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Regional Institute of Mental Health, Tezpur, Assam and Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi.
    • Integration of Mental Health Services in Ayushman Bharat – Health & Wellness Centres (HWCs)

    Under Ayushman Bharat, the government has upgraded more than 1.73 lakh Sub Health Centres (SHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. Mental health services have been added in the package of services under Comprehensive Primary Health Care provided at these Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. These HWCs provide:

    • Basic counselling and psychiatric medication at PHC levels.
    • Training for general physicians to handle mild-to-moderate mental health conditions.
    • Linkages to district hospitals for advanced psychiatric care.

    This initiative ensures that mental healthcare is available in both urban and rural areas, reducing dependence on specialized hospitals and making psychiatric care more community-centric.

    Policies and Schemes Undertaken by the Government of India

    National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) – 1982

    Recognizing the growing burden of mental disorders and the shortage of mental health services, India launched the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) in 1982. The primary goal was to ensure that mental healthcare becomes an integral part of the general healthcare system, rather than being confined to specialized hospitals.

    Key components include:

    District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) was introduced under NMHP to expand community mental health services.

    • Covers 767 districts
    • Provides counselling, outpatient services, suicide prevention programs, and awareness initiatives.
    • 10-bedded inpatient mental health facilities at the district level.

    NIMHANS Act, 2012

    The NIMHANS Act, 2012, was a significant step towards enhancing mental health education and research in India. Under this act, the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, was declared an Institute of National Importance. This recognition allowed NIMHANS to expand its academic and research capabilities, making it the premier institution for psychiatry, neuropsychology, and mental health sciences in India.

    The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016

    The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act which replaced the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Act, 1995, expanded the definition of disability to include mental illness and introduced stronger legal protections for individuals with psychosocial disabilities. The Act aligns with India’s commitment to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and aims to ensure equality, dignity, and non-discrimination for persons with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions.

    National Mental Healthcare Act, 2017

    The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, was enacted to ensure the right to mental healthcare services, protect the dignity and rights of individuals with mental illness, and align India’s mental health laws with international standards, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). The Act replaced the Mental Health Act of 1987 and introduced several progressive changes to mental health care and services in India like the Right to affordable and quality mental healthcare services and the decriminalization of suicide in India.

    National Health Policy, 2017

    The National Health Policy (NHP), 2017 was a landmark that acknowledged mental health as a national health priority. This policy aimed to address mental health issues through a multi-pronged approach, integrating mental healthcare into primary healthcare, strengthening human resources, and improving treatment accessibility.

    By placing mental health at the center of India’s healthcare framework, NHP 2017 aimed to bridge the treatment gap by making psychological services available at Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) under Ayushman Bharat.

    iGOT-Diksha Collaboration for Mental Health Training

    The government has also collaborated with the iGOT-Diksha platform, a digital learning initiative in 2020, to train healthcare professionals, frontline workers, and community health volunteers in mental healthcare. This program focuses on:

    • Building capacity for mental health care at the grassroots level.
    • Equipping doctors and nurses with skills to diagnose and treat mental disorders.
    • Promoting mental health awareness in rural areas.

    Through iGOT-Diksha, India has expanded its mental health workforce, ensuring better early intervention strategies and community support mechanisms.

    National Tele Mental Health Programme (Tele MANAS), 2022

    Launched on October 10, 2022, the National Tele Mental Health Programme (Tele MANAS) was a game-changer in India’s digital mental health infrastructure. Tele MANAS provides free, 24/7 mental health support to individuals through a national toll-free helpline (14416 / 1800-89-14416). Available in 20 Indian languages.

    As of February 7, 2025, the Tele MANAS helpline has handled over 1.81 million (18,27,951) calls since its launch in 2022, providing essential mental health support across India. There are 53 Tele MANAS Cells across various states, ensuring local access to mental health services. The program is supported by 23 Mentoring Institutes nationwide, along with 5 Regional Coordinating Centers, ensuring efficient service delivery and expert guidance in mental healthcare.

    Tele MANAS services include:

    • Immediate tele-counselling by trained professionals.
    • Referral support to psychiatrists for severe cases.
    • Mental health awareness campaigns via digital platforms.
    • Mobile-based mental health interventions, ensuring accessibility in rural and remote areas.

    Tele MANAS Mobile App & Video Consultation

    • The Tele MANAS App was launched in October 2024.
    • Offers self-care strategies, stress management tools, and direct access to mental health professionals.
    • Video consultation services introduced in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and J&K.

    WHO Recognition

    The World Health Organization (WHO) praised Tele MANAS as an effective and scalable mental health solution, making mental healthcare more inclusive and affordable.

    KIRAN Helpline Merged into Tele MANAS

    The KIRAN Helpline (1800-599-0019), initially launched in 2020, was merged into Tele MANAS in 2022 to enhance the efficiency of mental health support services. This transition streamlined mental health helpline operations, making it more accessible and better integrated with India’s healthcare system.

    During COVID-19, the government took crucial steps to support mental health. A 24/7 helpline provided nationwide psychosocial assistance, while health workers received online training through the iGOT-Diksha platform. Public awareness campaigns spread stress management strategies via media, and official guidelines and advisories were issued to promote mental well-being. These interventions played a vital role in addressing the psychological challenges of the pandemic.

    National Suicide Prevention Strategy, 2022

    The National Suicide Prevention Strategy (NSPS) was launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) in 2022, with the goal of reducing suicide mortality by 10% by 2030. Recognizing suicide as a public health concern, the strategy focuses on early intervention, crisis management, and mental health promotion.

    Key components of NSPS include:

    • Mental health screenings for students in schools and colleges.
    • Establishing crisis helplines and psychological support centers.
    • Community awareness programs to break the stigma around mental illness and suicide.
    • Stronger implementation of workplace mental health programs.

    By focusing on high-risk populations, such as students, farmers, and young adults, the strategy ensures targeted intervention to prevent self-harm and improve overall well-being.

    Conclusion

    India has made notable progress in mental healthcare through policy reforms, digital initiatives like Tele MANAS and expanding access to services under programs such as NMHP, Ayushman Bharat HWCs, and the National Suicide Prevention Strategy. Moving forward, India must strengthen awareness campaigns, expand workforce training and invest in digital mental health solutions. A mentally healthier India is vital for individual well-being, economic growth, and national development, requiring a whole-of-society approach to make mental healthcare accessible, inclusive, and stigma-free.

    References

    Kindly find the pdf file 

    ****

    Santosh Kumar / Sarla Meena / Vatsla Srivastava

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri Rammohan Naidu meets Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 5:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu met Union Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi today and discussed the problems being faced by red chilly farmers in Andhra Pradesh. During the meeting Senior officers from the Ministry of Agriculture were also present. Later, speaking to the media Shri Rammohan Naidu said the Government of Andhra Pradesh is planning to procure red chilies and he urged the Union Agriculture Minister to provide financial support to the state government under various schemes. Stating that Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan responded positively to the request of Andhra Pradesh Government.

    Shri Rammohan Naidu said he had handed over a letter from Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Shri Chandrababu Naidu explaining the problems of red chilli farmers to Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

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    Read this release in: Hindi

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Agriculture Committee Democrats Demand Answers for Funding Freeze

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Washington, D.C.  – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, joined Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and all Committee Democrats in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) demanding answers and clarity following the Trump Administration’s funding freeze.
    The Senators wrote to USDA Acting Secretary Gary Washington: “Over the past week, farmers, ranchers, schools, and state governments have contacted our offices in search of clarity on programs, websites, offices, and activities impacted by these orders. Conflicting information from the administration has added to the uncertainty, costing those who depend on the Department time and money. The farmers, rural families, and businesses that depend on the Department need certainty to plan ahead for this growing season.”
    The Senators requested “a description of the actions the Department has taken broken down by program, office, and activity, including listing any activities with paused or terminated disbursements or obligations, as well as the legal basis for pausing or terminating any funding that has been appropriated by Congress.”
    Senators Luján and Klobuchar were joined by Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tina Smith (D-MN), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT), John Fetterman (D-PA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI).
    The full letter is available here and below:
    Dear Acting Secretary Washington,  
    We write to seek clarity and raise concerns regarding the impact of recent Executive Orders and Presidential Memoranda on the U.S. Department of Agriculture.   
    Over the past week, farmers, ranchers, schools, and state governments have contacted our offices in search of clarity on programs, websites, offices, and activities impacted by these orders. Conflicting information from the administration has added to the uncertainty, costing those who depend on the Department time and money. The farmers, rural families, and businesses that depend on the Department need certainty to plan ahead for this growing season.
    Has the Department paused or terminated any payments, or taken any other actions to carry out any Executive Orders or Presidential Memoranda issued on or after January 20, 2025? If so, please provide a description of the actions the Department has taken broken down by program, office, and activity, including listing any activities with paused or terminated disbursements or obligations, as well as the legal basis for pausing or terminating any funding that has been appropriated by Congress. 
    In addition, please provide a timeline of when recipients of paused or terminated disbursements can expect to hear from the Department about the status of their funding. 
    Please respond to this letter by Close of Business on Friday, February 7. We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Cross-border enforcement of the Unfair Trading Practices Directive – 07-02-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The 2019 Unfair Trading Practices (UTP) Directive sought to address imbalances in bargaining power between suppliers and buyers of agricultural products. The directive was primarily aimed at protecting farmers, as a weaker party, selling their products to big supermarkets and food processing companies. However, experience has shown that the directive does not always provide a sufficient legal basis for mutual assistance in cross-border investigations. The Commission’s proposal for a new regulation on cross-border cooperation among authorities responsible for the enforcement of the UTP Directive is part of EU efforts to improve farmers’ position in the agri food supply chain. It would enable cooperation between enforcement authorities in cases of unfair trading practices where suppliers and buyers are in different Member States. Farmer associations have welcomed the proposal but are calling for a more substantial revision of the directive, in particular a ban on buying agricultural products below production cost. Retailers meanwhile are highly critical, saying that the proposal risks fragmenting the single market.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The Grand Mosque of Paris has a monopoly on EU companies’ exports to Algeria – E-000265/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000265/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    François-Xavier Bellamy (PPE)

    According to press reports, the Grand Mosque of Paris has sole control of halal certification under an agreement with the Algerian Government. The agreement forces EU producers to pay money to a commercial company owned by the mosque’s leaders if they want to export any products, including non-food products, to Algeria. This raises a number of serious questions.

    A private company holding such a monopoly is clearly completely unacceptable under EU law. An estimate based on the pricing system used puts the annual cost to EU farmers and industry at several million euros. This levy does not bring any added value or even involve any actual act of certification – it is simply an unmonitored moneymaker. As the Algerian Government, in conjunction with the Grand Mosque of Paris, is increasing its threats and acts of hostility towards France, the fact that this source of funding exists is also concerning from a security point of view.

    • 1.Has the Commission, as the guarantor of transparency in EU trade, investigated this clear distortion and its consequences? Does it know how these funds are used?
    • 2.On 11 December 2024, the Commission was represented at a meeting on this issue at the Grand Mosque of Paris; what was the outcome of that meeting?
    • 3.What criteria would lead the Commission to consider this certification requirement to be a violation of the EU-Algeria Agreement?

    Submitted: 22.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Shaheen Condemns Trump Actions as Deliberate Effort to Undermine Critical Functions of Government Over Lowering Costs for Granite Staters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) condemned Trump for undermining critical government functions instead of working to lower costs for Granite Staters like he promised during his campaign. Shaheen pointed to the President’s misguided tariff plan, chaotic effort to halt federal funding for grants and loans, the dismantling of U.S. foreign assistance and his enabling of billionaire Elon Musk to access Americans’ sensitive information at the U.S. Department of Treasury. You can read more here.

    The full article from the Union Leader is available here and below.

    Shaheen takes aim at Trump’s actions on spending, tariffs

    In some of her strongest language to date, U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen said President Donald Trump’s actions on spending, tariffs and shutting down foreign assistance programs appear to be a “deliberate effort to undermine the critical functions” of the federal government.

    Shaheen, a three-term senator whose term is up in 2026, said her office is receiving complaint calls at a level only met during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Many hold the view that Trump’s actions bear little resemblance to his focus as a presidential candidate, Shaheen said.

    “It is creating frustration and concern across the board. This is not what they signed up for,” Shaheen said during an interview. “When Donald Trump was campaigning, he was talking about addressing inflation, lowering costs for people on food, rent and prescriptions. None of that is in his agenda since he got inaugurated.”

    For his part, Trump said he told voters that Elon Musk, the world’s wealthiest man, would be a trusted adviser on how to reduce federal spending by up to $2 trillion.

    Musk leads the new Department of Government Efficiency, whose employees got access to payroll information of the Department of Treasury and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

    “He should not have access to this. They are going into classified spaces without appropriate clearances,” said Shaheen, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, which is dealing with the Department of Agriculture, rural development and Food and Drug Administration.

    Shaheen said Musk’s moves to close down USAID will collapse vital assistance to vulnerable people around the world and only invite U.S. adversaries to step in and try to control affairs in struggling countries.

    “In fact, there’s evidence that is already beginning to happen,” Shaheen said.

    Shaheen noted Musk seeks to reduce the size of a federal government that at one pivotal point rescued him with financial relief.

    “The irony is this guy would have been out of business but for the U.S. government bailing him out in Space X,” Shaheen said. “The fact he is trying to deny that kind of access and help to individuals and business that need it is just unacceptable and shameful.”

    Earlier Wednesday, Shaheen hosted a conference call with leaders of chambers of commerce and other regional officials who raised concerns about the proposed tariffs with Canada that are on a 30-day pause but have not been rescinded.

    “Their number one issue is the uncertainty and the chaos that is happening under this president’s very hand,” Shaheen said.

    U.S. Rep. Maggie Goodlander, D-N.H., signed on to a letter to Trump Wednesday, along with 60 House Democrats, calling for him to cancel any Canadian tariff plans.

    “These actions, this rhetoric has consequences that people are already seeing in their everyday lives,” Shaheen added.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Fights to Keep Higher Education Accessible for Farm Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) are standing up for families and fighting to reverse changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process that could reduce or even eliminate access to need-based student aid for farm families and small business owners.
    Their bipartisan Family Farm and Small Business Exemption Act would amend the FAFSA Simplification Act to restore the original exemption of all farmland, machinery, other operational materials, and small businesses with fewer than 100 employees from being declared on the FAFSA form.
    “No one should have to sell off the farm – or their small business – to afford college. As a farm kid myself, I know the enormous impacts grants and financial aid have on rural students’ decision to go to college,” said Ernst. “I’m fighting for Iowa families, so unfair policies don’t hold them back from investing in their child’s education.”
    “From Colorado to Iowa, federal financial aid helps ensure more students can afford college – including students from farm families, whose businesses are vital to our communities and economies,” said Bennet. “Our bipartisan bill will help ensure these students receive the financial aid they need.”
    Congressman Tracey Mann (R-Kan.) is introducing this legislation in the House:
    “Across Kansas’ Big First District and the country, net farm income has decreased by nearly 25% since 2022,” said Rep. Mann. “Between navigating record-levels of inflation and skyrocketing input costs, our family farmers, ranchers, agricultural producers, and small business owners are doing their best to make an honest living. When young people from these families are applying for higher education financial aid, the assets tied up in the family farm or the small business should not count against them. Congress should work to make life easier, not harder, for these dedicated families and students. My bill evens the playing field for these students and families, while protecting the American dream for every student regardless of their parents’ career ventures.”
    Under the previous contribution formula, the expected family contribution – calculated from information taken from the FAFSA form – did not include farm or small business assets. However, under the new formula the student aid index will take those assets into account, drastically driving up the amount a family is expected to contribute. 
    “Senator Ernst has taken an important step to restore equity to farm families whose special circumstances were lost in the efforts to simplify the FAFSA. Leaving deserving farm families out of federal student aid programs is not simplification, it is bad policy. The nation’s private colleges are very appreciative for all she is doing to fix this mistake,” said Barbara Mistick, President of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities.
    “Senator Ernst’s bill is a win for Iowa families, ensuring students from family farms and small businesses across the country don’t lose out on critical financial aid. This is a step forward for Iowans and removes an unnecessary barrier to higher education,” said Brenda Buzynski, Assistant Provost and Director of Student Financial Aid at University of Iowa.
    “Our country’s farmers and ranchers are facing tremendous challenges, from a strained farm economy to legislative and regulatory uncertainty. Making it more difficult for their children to attain a college education shouldn’t be an added burden. We know that farmers’ assets are tied up in the value of their land, livestock and equipment, yet their kids may not qualify for federal financial student aid. AFBF commends Senator Ernst’s work to find a solution to the challenges created by the asset calculation changes in the FAFSA Simplification Act,” said Ryan Yates, Managing Director of Government Affairs at American Farm Bureau Federation.
    “NASSGAP is pleased to support Senator Joni Ernst’s efforts to ensure continued access to the financial aid children of family farmers need to attend college. Family farmers are the backbone of America and NASSGAP is honored to help Sen. Ernst ensure their children have the same access to higher education,” said Frank Ballman, Director of Federal Relations at the National Association of State Student Grant and Aid Programs.
    Background:
    Ernst has been a strong advocate for Iowa families to be able to responsibly finance their child’s education. 
    After Biden’s Department of Education botched their FAFSA rollout, Ernst supported the FAFSA Deadline Act that became law and gave families the certainty they deserve. To ensure more Iowa families are not left out, Ernst conducted critical oversight, demanded answers on behalf of agricultural communities, and worked to get input directly from impacted Iowans.
    On her annual River to River Tour, Ernst hosted town halls and met with students and schools to discuss the effects of FAFSA to bring Iowans’ concerns to Washington.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: More funding helps update irrigation infrastructure

    Irrigation helps farmers increase yields, grow more diverse crops and improve productivity and crop quality to put more food on tables in Alberta and around the world. The irrigation district network is essential to farmers, ranchers, food processors and communities, providing much-needed water for agriculture, processing and other industries, domestic use, recreation and wildlife habitat.

    In Budget 2024, Alberta’s government increased funding for the Irrigation Rehabilitation Program to $19 million, up from $13.5 million the year before. This cost-shared program helps irrigation districts modernize infrastructure to deliver water efficiently and reliably to producers, processors and communities. Since the funding was announced, 14 projects have begun or progressed in Alberta’s 11 irrigation districts.

    “We’re maximizing water use efficiency through initiatives like the Irrigation Rehabilitation Program, helping farmers boost yields, crop diversity and quality. By increasing funding for irrigation infrastructure, we support Alberta’s economy and enhance resilience against droughts and dry conditions, ensuring a stable agricultural future. These investments are vital for both local and global food security.”

    RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation

    “The Irrigation Rehabilitation Program continues to successfully support the rehabilitation of irrigation delivery infrastructure within Alberta’s irrigation districts. Replacing canals with buried water pipelines and modernizing water control structures maintains an efficient and dependable system providing water security for irrigated agriculture, communities, industry, wetlands and recreation.”

    Richard Phillips, vice-chair of Alberta Irrigation Districts Association

    One project that began under the program is a partnership between the St. Mary River and Raymond Irrigation Districts. Together, they are working on major upgrades to the Chin Chute, a project that benefits both districts. The Chin reservoir is supplied by the St. Mary River Irrigation District’s main canal, which conveys irrigation water from the Milk River Ridge Reservoir, south of the Town of Raymond, about 74 kilometres. The project is expected to be completed this spring.

    “We were thankful for the increase in Irrigation Rehabilitation Program funding to $19 million announced in the 2024 budget.  It is allowing us to replace the chute at Chin Reservoir. This is a critical component of the infrastructure in the St. Mary irrigation project. Chin reservoir supports up to 400,000 acres of agriculture irrigation and water for many communities downstream of Chin.”

    David Westwood, general manager, St. Mary River Irrigation District

    Quick facts

    • The annual Irrigation Rehabilitation Program was established in 1969 and is currently cost-shared between Alberta’s government (75 per cent) and Alberta’s 11 irrigation districts (25 per cent).
    • Funding is used for planning, engineering and rehabilitation of existing infrastructure such as converting canals to pipelines.

    Projects funded under the 2024 program include:

    • Bow River Irrigation District – BK-2-2 (Vauxhall) Pipeline – replacing four kilometres of open channel canal with buried pipeline at an estimated cost of $1,705,000.
    • Bow River Irrigation District – BK-2 (Vauxhall) Pipeline – replacing 16.7 kilometres of open channel canal with buried pipeline at an estimated cost of $2,772,000.
    • Eastern Irrigation District – West Bantry Canal – Armour – add armour to upgrade 8.6 kilometres of existing earth canal at an estimated cost of $1,300,000.
    • Lethbridge Northern Irrigation District – Lateral A3 Pipeline – replacing 1.6 kilometres of open channel canal with buried pipeline at an estimated cost of $819,000.
    • Lethbridge Northern Irrigation District – Lateral 61C Pipeline – replacing 6.6 kilometres of open channel canal with buried pipeline at an estimated cost of $7,500,000.
    • Magrath Irrigation District – Miller Pipeline – replacing three kilometres of open channel canal with buried pipeline at an estimated cost of $701,000.
    • Raymond Irrigation District – New Dayton CPR Crossing – replacing two open channel canals totalling 11.5 kilometres with buried pipeline at an estimated cost of $1,905,000.
    • Raymond Irrigation District – Aerial Photos – to assist with future and ongoing planning at an estimated cost of $5,000.
    • Raymond Irrigation District – 9 Mile Phase 4 – replacing two open channel canals totalling 11.5 kilometres with buried pipeline at an estimated cost of $1,905,000.
    • St. Mary River Irrigation District & Raymond Irrigation District – Chin Chute Rehabilitation – replace aging spillway structure and increase flowrate capacity at an estimated cost of $27,097,432.
    • Southwest Irrigation District – Upper Lateral K Pipeline – replacing 2.3 kilometres of open channel canal with buried pipeline at an estimated cost of $1,507,000.
    • United Irrigation District – Lateral F Phase 2 – replacing 700 metres of open channel canal with buried pipeline at an estimated cost of $788,000.
    • Western Irrigation District – Secondary C Controls – replacing four aging structures, including upgrades and automation at an estimated cost of $1,066,000.
    • Western Irrigation District – Secondary C Inline Storage – investigation and feasibility study for four strategic water storage sites at an estimated cost of $634,000.

    Related news

    • Bolstering Alberta’s irrigation infrastructure (April 30, 2024)

     

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ICC and Palestine Emerging continue to promote economic opportunity in the Middle East 

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: ICC and Palestine Emerging continue to promote economic opportunity in the Middle East 

    A second meeting of the ICC-Palestine Emerging Steering Committee was held virtually on 7 February, marking a progress-tracking milestone since the collaboration was announced in October 2024. With a focus on the economic development and reconstruction of Gaza and the West Bank, the ICC-Palestine Emerging partnership works to promote strong private sectors across the Middle East.

    Another key achievement has been the formal affiliation of the Federation of Palestinian Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (FPCCIA) with the ICC World Chambers Federation. The affiliation will allow Palestinian companies to participate in ICC’s global business events and to gain international market access. It will also provide Palestinian companies with direct access to ICC OneClick, ICC’s gateway supporting SMEs in their export journey, now available in Arabic.

    ICC Secretary General, John W.H. Denton AO said:

    “By combining the breadth and credibility of ICC’s network and expertise with Palestine Emerging’s local insights, this collaboration will continue to foster Palestine’s engagement with the global economy with integrity”

    The ICC-Palestine Emerging partnership has identified 15 workstreams aimed at growing the Palestinian economy, and the Middle East region at large. These include concrete initiatives to strengthen the Palestinian private sector’s involvement with ICC’s global network, including through the establishment of a new national committee.

    ICC is working closely with Palestine Emerging to promote the Palestinian entrepreneurship ecosystem by facilitating engagement between local startups, education institutions and international investors. The initiative also aims to enhance investment attraction efforts and support economic reconstruction, including by developing local arbitration capabilities and bringing ICC’s alternative dispute resolution services to Palestine.

    Senior ICC representatives have actively engaged in Palestine Emerging activities. These include joint events with the United States Institute of Peace in Washington D.C. in December 2024 and the Palestine Emerging International Advisory Group meeting in London in January 2025.

    ICC and Palestine Emerging have secured support from key international players for these joint initiatives through engagement with key government and business leaders.

    As momentum builds, ICC and Palestine Emerging’s collaboration will continue to drive economic opportunity and integration for Palestinian businesses with the global economy.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Preventing the Spread of Avian Influenza in Poultry

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that, as part of New York State’s continued effort to combat the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), the Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) has issued a new Notice and Order for live bird markets that have not had a detection of HPAI in New York City and Westchester, Suffolk, and Nassau counties. The order requires those markets to sell down all inventory, complete cleaning and disinfection procedures, and remain closed for a period of five days after cleaning and disinfection. In addition, the Notice and Order further outlines quarantine and depopulation procedures for markets that have confirmed detections of HPAI. This Notice and Order follows seven detections of HPAI in markets in Queens, the Bronx, and Brooklyn during routine surveillance conducted by AGM since January 31, 2025. The State reminds farmers to follow good biosecurity measures and emphasizes that the risk to humans remains low.

    “Safeguarding public health is all about being proactive, and New York State is continuing our coordinated effort to monitor for the Avian Influenza,” Governor Hochul said. “My top priority will always be to keep New Yorkers safe, and I have directed our state agencies to use all available resources to ensure we are taking every measure necessary to keep the risk to the public low. We will continue to take these measured, common sense steps that will curb the spread of bird flu and ultimately protect our communities.”

    New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “We’re continuing to work hard with our partners to combat the spread of HPAI in New York. Today, I signed a Notice and Order requiring that live bird markets in New York City and the surrounding areas close for cleaning and disinfection, even if they haven’t yet had a detection of HPAI in their market. Following seven detections of HPAI in live bird markets in the last week, this Notice and Order is a commonsense measure aimed at getting ahead of the virus, rather than chasing it. We’re working with USDA and other partners to make sure that we can minimize the economic impact to these markets, and we very much appreciate the markets’ cooperation and assistance in protecting public and animal health.”

    New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “While there is no immediate threat to public health and no known cases of HPAIin humans in New York State, we support the Department of Agriculture and Markets’ latest proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease between animals and humans by temporarily closing live bird markets in New York City and surrounding counties. Those who have regular contact with livestock and wild birds should safeguard their health by wearing personal protective equipment when in contact with these animals. We will remain vigilant in working with our state and local partners to monitor for detections and reduce any potential risks to public health and safety.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “Through Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is acting aggressively to monitor for and advance actions to reduce the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. DEC remains committed to working comprehensively with our state and federal partners to respond to HPAI and encourages New Yorkers to use our new web-based tool to report suspected HPAI outbreaks in wildlife, and follow proper precautions when handling deceased wildlife. Visit DEC’s website for additional information on safe wildlife handling and proper disposal techniques.”

    New York City Health Department Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse said, “The current risk to New Yorkers of bird flu (H5N1) remains low. Avian influenza viruses only present a wider risk if the virus develops the ability to transmit between people – which we have not seen. The NYC Health Department will continue to work closely with the NYS Department of Agriculture and NYS Department of Health to ensure that Live Bird Market staff receive essential information and, if symptoms present themselves, receive any treatment they may need. We are prepared to respond to any disease outbreak, including quickly ramping up testing and treatment, and working closely with providers and community partners to rapidly disseminate messaging.”

    HPAI is a contagious viral disease that is known to be deadly to domestic poultry and has been transmitted within and between farms and live bird markets. The temporary shutdown mandated by the Notice and Order is necessary and essential to ensuring a break in HPAI virus transmission within the impacted markets. While AGM’s routine surveillance is effective, after finding seven detections of HPAI in live bird markets within the last week, the temporary shutdown ensures that the State can get ahead of any additional opportunities for transmission of the virus within the markets at the current time. A uniform market closure for a five-day period addresses the persistence and circulation of the virus within the markets by quickly reducing the virus prevalence to zero percent.

    Effective immediately, the Notice and Order requires that:

    • No poultry shall be delivered to live bird markets or distributors covered by the Order from February 7, 2025 through February 14, 2025.
    • Any market that harbors birds exhibiting clinical signs of HPAI must contact the Department of Agriculture and Markets immediately to undergo investigation and testing.
    • Markets that test positive for HPAI shall be depopulated; undergo cleaning and disinfection and be empty of birds for five days, at a minimum; and shall remain closed until the market passes cleaning and disinfection inspection by an AGM animal health inspector.
    • All unaffected live bird markets in New York City and Westchester, Suffolk, and Nassau counties must sell down all inventory for a period of three days beginning on February 7, 2025; complete cleaning and disinfection procedures; and subsequently close for a period of five days following cleaning and disinfection. These markets must pass a cleaning and disinfection inspection by an AGM animal health inspector before reopening.

    Cleaning and disinfection includes the removal of all organic debris from all equipment, caging, flooring, etc.; and requires that all surfaces be cleaned with soap or detergent, rinsed with water, and saturated with a disinfectant appropriate for killing the avian influenza virus, in accordance with the manufacturer’s label.

    USDA provides indemnity and compensation for losses incurred following a confirmed detection of HPAI on a premise.

    State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “This proactive decision by NYS Agriculture and Markets to temporarily close at-risk poultry markets as a precaution against avian flu is a difficult yet necessary step to curb the spread of this highly contagious disease. New York benefits immensely from having one of the country’s top Animal Diagnostic Labs at Cornell University, which will play a critical role in limiting further spread and reducing disruptions for both farmers and businesses. We are committed to ensuring that the lab has the necessary resources to quickly respond to this and any other pathogen-based threats that may emerge.”

    Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “After detecting avian flu at seven live bird markets across NYS, the decision was made to temporarily close these markets. Proactive measures, while concerning to businesses and consumers alike, are necessary to help prevent the spread of a virus that has devastated poultry farms across the country. We are fortunate in NYS to have one of the country’s premier Animal Diagnostic Labs at Cornell University whose expertise will be invaluable as we navigate these waters.”

    HPAI in Poultry

    At Governor Hochul’s direction, AGM, DOH, and DEC continue to collaborate closely on proactive measures to prevent the spread of HPAI and facilitate early detection, as the risk to humans remains low. The New York State Department of Health is also reminding the public that the finding of HPAI in this market does not present an immediate public health concern. Individuals working in the markets will be assessed for potential high-risk exposure and be monitored for symptoms by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene accordingly. If any become ill, they will be evaluated for infection with avian influenza. Since the start of 2024, there have been 67 human cases of avian influenza in the United States, and none of these have been in New York State.

    AGM encourages those involved in poultry production to take extra steps to prevent their flocks from becoming infected. All poultry producers, from small backyard to large commercial operations, should review their biosecurity plans and take precautions to protect their birds. Poultry biosecurity materials and checklists can be found on the USDA’s “Defend the Flock” website.

    In addition to practicing good biosecurity, poultry owners should keep their birds away from wild ducks and geese and their droppings. Outdoor access for poultry should be limited at this time, particularly as the State continues to see HPAI detections in wild bird populations.

    To report sick birds, unexplained high number of deaths, or sudden drop in egg production, please contact AGM’s Division of Animal Industry at (518) 457-3502 or the USDA at (866) 536-7593.

    HPAI in Dairy Cattle

    In January, AGM announced that it is implementing new testing initiatives on dairy farms as part of its aggressive, proactive response to the outbreak of HPAI in livestock in other states. Working in close collaboration with federal partners, including USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, FDA, and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, and State partners, including DOH, this enhanced testing strategy is part of the State’s effort to protect animal and human health and prevent the transmission of HPAI in livestock in New York State. While there have been no detections of HPAI in livestock in New York to date, the State’s comprehensive approach is aimed at ensuring the state remains free of HPAI and facilitating early detection.

    In addition to the new testing initiative, New York State has taken multiple preventative measures to prevent the spread of HPAI and protect animal and human health since the first detection of HPAI in dairy cattle in Texas in March 2024. In April, June, and August 2024, the Department issued orders on import requirements for dairy cattle coming into New York as well as testing requirements for lactating dairy cattle entering fairs or exhibitions. These orders continue to remain in place until further notice.

    USDA offers several producer support programs that are available to all dairy producers as well as certain programs only available to dairy producers with HPAI-positive herds. These programs include tools to support biosecurity planning and implementation as well as financial support programs to offset costs associated with HPAI testing, veterinary expenses, personal protective equipment purchases, milk disposal, and milk losses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: 3 ways the Trump administration could reinvest in rural America’s future

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Randolph Hubach, Professor of Public Health, Purdue University

    Rural America can be idyllic, but many communities still need support. Mint Images via Getty Images

    Rural America faces many challenges that Congress and the federal government could help alleviate under the new Trump administration.

    Rural hospitals and their obstetrics wards have been closing at a rapid pace, leaving rural residents traveling farther for health care. Affordable housing is increasingly hard to find in rural communities, where pay is often lower and poverty higher than average. Land ownership is changing, leaving more communities with outsiders wielding influence over their local resources.

    As experts in rural health and policy at the Center for Rural and Migrant Health at Purdue University, we work with people across the United States to build resilient rural communities.

    Here are some ways we believe the Trump administration could work with Congress to boost these communities’ health and economies.

    1. Rural health care access

    One of the greatest challenges to rural health care is its vulnerability to shifts in policy and funding cuts because of rural areas’ high rates of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries.

    About 25% of rural residents rely on Medicaid, a federal program that provides health insurance for low-income residents. A disproportionate share of Medicare beneficiaries – people over 65 who receive federal health coverage – also live in rural areas. At the same time, the average health of rural residents lags the nation as a whole.

    Rural clinics and hospitals

    Funding from those federal programs affects rural hospitals, and rural hospitals are struggling.

    Nearly half of rural hospitals operate in the red today, and over 170 rural hospitals have closed since 2010. The low population density of rural areas can make it difficult for hospitals to cover operating costs when their patient volume is low. These hospital closures have left rural residents traveling an extra 20 miles (32 km) on average to receive inpatient health care services and an extra 40 miles (64 km) for specialty care services.

    The government has created programs to try to help keep hospitals operating, but they all require funding that is at risk. For example:

    • The Low-volume Hospital Adjustment Act, first implemented in 2005, has helped numerous rural hospitals by boosting their Medicare payments per patient, but it faces regular threats of funding cuts. It and several other programs to support Medicare-dependent hospitals are set to expire on March 31, 2025, when the next federal budget is due.

    • The rural emergency hospital model, created in 2020, helps qualifying rural facilities to maintain access to essential emergency and outpatient hospital services, also by providing higher Medicare payments. Thus far, only 30 rural hospitals have transitioned to this model, in part because they would have to eliminate inpatient care services, which also limits outpatient surgery and other medical services that could require overnight care in the event of an emergency.

    Rural emergency hospitals can get extra funding, but there’s a catch: They have no inpatient beds, so people in need of longer care must go farther.
    AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis

    Services for pregnant women have also gotten harder to find in rural areas.

    Between 2011 and 2021, 267 rural hospitals discontinued obstetric services, representing 25% of the United States’ rural obstetrics units. In response, the federal government has implemented various initiatives to enhance access to care, such as the Rural Hospital Stabilization Pilot Program and the Rural Maternal and Obstetric Management Strategies Program. However, these programs also require funding.

    Expanding telehealth

    Before the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth – the ability to meet with your doctor over video – wasn’t widely used. It could be difficult for doctors to ensure reimbursement, and the logistics of meeting federal requirements and privacy rules could be challenging.

    The pandemic changed that. Improving technology allowed telehealth to quickly expand, reducing people’s contact with sick patients, and the government issued waivers for Medicare and Medicaid to pay for telehealth treatment. That opened up new opportunities for rural patients to get health care and opportunities for providers to reach more patients.

    However, the Medicare and Medicaid waivers for most telehealth services were only temporary. Only payments for mental and behavioral health teleheath services continued, and those are set to expire with the federal budget in March 2025, unless they are renewed.

    One way to expand rural health care would be to make those waivers permanent.

    Increasing access to telehealth could also support people struggling with opioid addiction and other substance use disorders, which have been on the rise in rural areas.

    2. Affordable housing is a rural problem too

    Like their urban peers, rural communities face a shortage of affordable housing.

    Unemployment in rural areas today exceeds levels before the COVID-19 pandemic. Job growth and median incomes lag behind urban areas, and rural poverty rates are higher.

    Rural housing prices have been exacerbated by continued population growth over the past four years, lower incomes compared with their urban peers, limited employment opportunities and few high-quality homes available for rent or sale. Rural communities often have aging homes built upon outdated or inadequate infrastructure, such as deteriorating sewer and water lines.

    Rental homes in older towns can become run down. Community maintenance of pipes and other services also requires funding.
    LawrenceSawyer/E+ via Getty Images

    One proposal to help people looking for affordable rural housing is the bipartisan Neighborhood Homes Investment Act, which calls for creating a new federal tax credit to spur the development and renovation of family housing in distressed urban, suburban and rural neighborhoods.

    Similarly, the Section 502 Direct Loan Program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which subsidizes mortgages for low-income applicants to obtain safe housing, could be expanded with additional funding to enable more people to receive subsidized mortgages.

    3. Locally owned land benefits communities

    Seniors age 65 and older own 40% of the agricultural land in the U.S., according to the American Farmland Trust. That means that more than 360 million acres of farmland could be transferred to new owners in the next few decades. If their heirs aren’t interested in farming, that land could be sold to large operations or real estate developers.

    That affects rural communities because locally owned rural businesses tend to invest in their communities, and they are more likely to make decisions that benefit the community’s well-being.

    A farmer carries organic squash during harvest. Young farmers often struggle to find land to expand their operations.
    Thomas Barwick/Stone via Getty Images

    Congress can take some steps to help communities keep more farmland locally owned.

    The proposed Farm Transitions Act, for example, would establish a commission on farm transitions to study issues that affect locally owned farms and provide recommendations to help transition agricultural operations to the next generation of farmers and ranchers.

    About 30% of farmers have been in business for less than 10 years, and many of them rent the land they farm. Programs such as USDA’s farm loan programs and the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program help support local land purchases and could be improved to identify and eliminate barriers that communities face.

    We believe that by addressing these issues, Congress and the new administration can help some of the country’s most vulnerable citizens. Efforts to build resilient and strong rural communities will benefit everyone.

    Randolph Hubach receives funding from the National Institutes of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration.

    Cody Mullen receives funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration. He is affiliated with the National Rural Health Association.

    – ref. 3 ways the Trump administration could reinvest in rural America’s future – https://theconversation.com/3-ways-the-trump-administration-could-reinvest-in-rural-americas-future-245451

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Opens Historic Underground Railroad Site in Wrightsville to Public for First Time in History

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    February 06, 2025 – Wrightsville, PA

    Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Opens Historic Underground Railroad Site in Wrightsville to Public for First Time in History

    For the first time in 225 years, the public will gain access to Mifflin Farm, a documented Underground Railroad site and the location of a pivotal Civil War battle, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn announced today during a visit to the site in honor of Black History Month.

    The 79-acre Mifflin Farm property, expected to open for tours this spring, includes the Mifflin House, a documented stop for freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad. Investments from DCNR, the Department of Community and Economic Development, the National Park Service, The Conservation Fund, several York County organizations, and private donors will open the site to the public for the first time in more than two centuries. The Susquehanna National Heritage Area is planning a discovery center and heritage park at the site, featuring walking trails interpreting the Underground Railroad and the Civil War battle in Wrightsville, with public access beginning this spring.

    “This site is integral in telling the story of Pennsylvania and its fight to end slavery,” said Secretary Dunn. “As we celebrate Black History Month, we must not forget those who fought for their own freedom, risking their lives to travel the Underground Railroad North. We must also remember those who fought for what was right, despite the prevailing norms of the time.”

    Speaker list:
    Nelson Polite, Jr., President, African American Historical Society of South Central Pennsylvania
    Mark Platts, President & CEO, Susquehanna National Heritage Area
    Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn, DCNR
    Neicy Deshields-Moulton, Genealogist
    Doug Hoke, York County Commissioner
    State Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sowing the Seeds of Change in Danbury Schools

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Gardens welcome students, employees, and visitors at all of Danbury’s schools, thanks to Anne Mead, the director of family, school, and community partnerships for Danbury Public Schools, and the many people and organizations she works with on the school garden initiatives. Her role includes working with partners and developing strategies for families to engage with the schools.

    Mead ’06 (BGS) has a master’s and doctoral degree in educational and organizational systems and the Danbury Schools recruited her to lead the partnerships initiatives in 2008.

    Mead is a UConn Extension Master Gardener volunteer and collaborates with this program and UConn Extension’s Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) in her work with Danbury Schools.

    “I came into the district with a farm and garden approach to schools, and we have gardens at many schools now. We have a Farm to School Institute team and are implementing the 3C’s classroom, curriculum, and cafeteria,” she says.

    Students have opportunities for experiential learning through the gardens, including planting, watering, and caring for the plants. This fosters their education, and nutrition awareness as they harvest produce from the garden and help prepare healthy meals.

    Mead’s Extension involvement began as a child, growing up in Redding. Her mother was an avid gardener and healthy cook; a 4-H leader, as well as a cookbook committee member. Mead always loved gardening because of this early introduction. She and her husband live in Danbury and have extensive gardens on their property as well.

    During the pandemic, Mead enrolled in UConn Extension’s Master Gardener Program and earned her certification.

    “The Master Gardeners brought my horticultural understanding to a different level intellectually because of the amount of knowledge you walk away with; you understand the whys, permaculture, and wind patterns.” She also recently became an Advanced Master Gardener.

    In addition to the skills and knowledge she has gained, Mead also appreciates the community connections Extension programming provides. She helps families who visit the Master Gardeners at the farmers market, providing resources and recommendations on types of vegetables to grow and scaling up their garden each year. She continues volunteering with the program and helping people with gardening and food choices, in addition to her role with the schools.

    “I encourage everyone to visit an Extension location; there is one in every county,” Mead says. “Talk to the program coordinator and graduates, spend some time volunteering with the Master Gardeners or sit in on a class. Look at the projects in your community. Becoming a Master Gardener is one way to become informed and spend time in your community.”

    Mead’s building in the Danbury School System is connected to the elementary school building, and this year, she received a grant from the Connecticut Master Gardener Association to add a pollinator garden for butterflies and insects on their playscape. She also serves on the district’s health and wellness committee, and they are developing healthier snacks, cutting down on highly processed, sugar-laden foods, and adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to the menus. The 3- to 5-year-olds participate in making the meals and then filling their plates.

    “Anne Mead is a dynamic partner. She brings in-depth knowledge about greater Danbury and coupled with her knowledge of public education, especially understanding the needs of area students and their families, exemplifies how Extension increases its reach even further as we support and help grow these important initiatives,” Bonnie Burr, the assistant director of UConn Extension says.

    One of her next projects will be helping bring a Green Academy to Danbury High School’s Wall to Wall Academy. This will include gardening aspects and career pathways, and she’s excited to incorporate her horticultural knowledge and Master Gardener experiences in this new initiative.

    The gardening and nutrition projects are one aspect of Mead’s work with Danbury Public Schools, but the impact is far-reaching.

    “We hope to see much better nutrition,” Mead shares. “Gardening with the students is a time without a lot of competition and very little technology, they can be themselves in the garden. The parents are participating too, and it’s building a sense of community with the youth and families.”

    Follow UConn CAHNR on social media

    MIL OSI USA News –