NewzIntel.com

Category: Farming

  • MIL-OSI: Sixth Street Completes Acquisition of Enstar

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HAMILTON, Bermuda, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enstar Group Limited (“Enstar”) (Nasdaq: ESGR) today announced the closing of its acquisition by investment vehicles managed by affiliates of Sixth Street, a leading global investment firm, for $338.00 in cash per ordinary share, representing a total equity value of $5.1 billion. Liberty Strategic Capital, J.C. Flowers & Co. LLC, and other institutional investors also participated in the transaction.

    “This is a major moment for Enstar as we begin our next chapter as a private company,” said Enstar’s Chief Executive Officer Dominic Silvester. “Together with Sixth Street, we will build on our position as a leading global (re)insurance group, delivering innovative solutions to our partners and maintaining our competitive advantage. I’d like to thank our employees, past and present, whose contributions have been instrumental to achieving this milestone.”

    “Enstar is a compelling company with a robust business model and an exceptional management team,” said Michael Muscolino, Co-Founder and Partner at Sixth Street. “We are thrilled to reach this milestone and look forward to partnering with Dominic and the rest of the Enstar team to help them execute on their existing strategy.”

    In connection with the closing of the transaction, Enstar notified The Nasdaq Stock Market, LLC (“NASDAQ”) that Enstar intends to voluntarily withdraw its depositary shares, each representing a 1/1,000th interest in a 7.00% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Perpetual Non-Cumulative Preferred Share, Series D, par value $1.00 per share, and its depositary shares, each representing a 7.00% Perpetual Non-Cumulative Preferred Share, Series E, par value $1.00 per share (collectively, the “depositary shares”) from listing on NASDAQ and registration pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Enstar expects to file a Form 25 Notification of Delisting with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on or about July 14, 2025, relating to delisting and deregistering of the depositary shares. Enstar has not arranged, and does not intend to arrange, for listing and/or registration of the depositary shares on another national securities exchange or for quotation of the depositary shares in a quotation medium.

    The transaction was announced on July 29, 2024, and approved by Enstar shareholders at the Company’s Special General Meeting of Shareholders on November 6, 2024. With the completion of the acquisition, Enstar’s ordinary shares will no longer be listed publicly, and Enstar will continue operations as a privately held, standalone company. The Company will continue to operate under the Enstar name.

    Advisors

    Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC acted as financial advisor to Enstar and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP and Hogan Lovells US LLP acted as legal advisors. Ardea Partners LP, Barclays PLC and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC acted as financial advisors to Sixth Street and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP and Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP acted as legal advisors.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This communication contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that include words such as “estimate,” “project,” “plan,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “seek,” “may,” “will” and similar statements of a future or forward-looking nature identify forward-looking statements for purposes of the federal securities laws or otherwise. These statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of Enstar and its management team. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those related to the satisfaction of any post-closing regulatory requirements.

    Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements, in addition to those identified above, include: (i) the risk that an active trading market for the newly preferred shares that our holders of the depositary shares representing Enstar Preferred Shares received in the transaction does not exist and may not develop; (ii) those risks and uncertainties set forth under the headings “Forward Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in Enstar’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, as such risk factors may be amended, supplemented or superseded from time to time by other reports filed by Enstar with the SEC from time to time, which are available via the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov; and (iii) those risks described in the definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A (the “Proxy Statement”) filed with the SEC on October 11, 2024 and available from the sources indicated below.

    These risks, as well as other risks associated with the transaction, are more fully discussed in the Proxy Statement filed with the SEC on October 11, 2024, in connection with the transaction. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. Enstar undertakes no obligation to update any written or oral forward-looking statements or publicly announce any updates or revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained herein, or to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions, circumstances or assumptions underlying such statements, except as required by law. If one or more of these or other risks or uncertainties materialize, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, our actual results may vary materially from what we may have expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. We caution that you should not place undue reliance on any of our forward-looking statements. You should specifically consider the factors identified in this communication that could cause actual results to differ. Furthermore, new risks and uncertainties arise from time to time, and it is impossible for us to predict those events or how they may affect Enstar.

    About Enstar

    Enstar is a global insurance group that offers innovative capital release solutions through its network of group companies in Bermuda, the United States, the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, Australia, and other international locations. A market leader in completing legacy acquisitions, Enstar has acquired more than 120 companies and portfolios since its formation in 2001. For further information about Enstar, see www.enstargroup.com.

    About Sixth Street

    Sixth Street is a global investment firm with over $115 billion in assets under management and committed capital. The firm uses its long-term flexible capital, data-enabled capabilities, and “One Team” culture to develop themes and offer solutions to companies across all stages of growth. Founded in 2009, Sixth Street has more than 650 team members including over 280 investment professionals around the world. For more information, visit www.sixthstreet.com, and follow Sixth Street on LinkedIn.

    Contact:

    For Enstar:
    For Investors: Matthew Kirk (investor.relations@enstargroup.com)
    For Media: Jenna Kerr (communications@enstargroup.com)

    For Sixth Street:
    media@sixthstreet.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Drone as a Service (DaaS) Market is Booming Expected to Reach $179 Billion By 2030

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) in agriculture will increasingly involve a sophisticated interplay of robots, drones, remote sensors, and computer imaging. A report from MarketsAndMarkets said: “The overall drones as a service market will reach $179.3 billion by 2030. Surveillance and monitoring will be the largest revenue opportunity through 2030 High potential industry verticals include construction, insurance, aerospace and real estate Surveillance and mapping remain largest opportunities with maintenance and inspection rapidly gaining ground as high ROI solutions and Developing countries are fastest growing for many solutions due largely to substantial cost avoidance for expensive professional services.” It continued: “The fundamental principle underpinning cloud computing is the decentralization of computational resources. It posits that the physical infrastructure required for processing data and running applications no longer necessitates a local presence within a customer’s own facilities. Furthermore, the precise geographical location of these computing resources becomes largely immaterial to the end-user. Imagine, if you will, computational power existing almost ubiquitously, like a utility that can be tapped into whenever and wherever the need arises. This abstract notion of computing residing “in the ether” highlights the on-demand and location-independent nature of the cloud.” Active Companies in the markets today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), Deere & Company (NYSE: DE), EHang Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: EH), AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AGCO), AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS).

    MarketsAndMarkets added: “This shift in paradigm has yielded significant advantages. Firstly, it has dramatically improved the utilization of computing assets. Instead of individual organizations maintaining underutilized servers and infrastructure, cloud providers can aggregate demand from numerous customers, leading to far greater efficiency. The evolution of cloud computing has fostered the “as a service” delivery model. This framework provides computational capabilities – be it processing power, storage, or specialized software – as a service that can be accessed over a network, typically the internet. This “as a service” approach has proven to be an exceptionally adaptable and scalable method for organizations to introduce and expand their computational capabilities without the upfront investment and management overhead associated with traditional IT infrastructure. This transformative “as a service” paradigm is now profoundly impacting the field of robotics. It is paving the way for “automation as a service”, where robotic capabilities are offered as a readily available service rather than requiring the outright purchase and maintenance of physical robots. This shift unlocks new possibilities for businesses that may have previously found robotics cost-prohibitive or lacked the in-house expertise to deploy and manage them effectively.”

    ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) Expands Drone as a Service (DaaS) to California with Offer to Acquire an Engineering and Surveying Firm, Tapping into Precision Agriculture and Viticulture Market – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drone, Drone as a Service (DaaS), and enterprise SaaS, has signed an offer to acquire a California-based civil engineering and land surveying firm with a well established history of operations. This marks ZenaTech’s first proposed transaction in the US West Coast or Southwest region, creating a strategic entry point into California ─ a high-value market for drone-based precision agriculture due to a massive agriculture economy, crop diversity, labor and water challenges, and an openness to innovation.

    With a commercial, construction and sustainability solution customer base and a deep regional presence, the proposed acquisition positions ZenaTech to scale its Drone as a Service or DaaS survey operations. It also provides significant opportunity to expand into California’s wine and agriculture sectors using advanced drone capabilities including aerial imaging, precision spraying, irrigation analytics, and wildfire detection and monitoring in high-risk areas.

    “This proposed acquisition is more than just our first Southwest region location — it’s a strategic foothold into a high-value, high-growth state for precision agriculture,” said Shaun Passley, Ph.D., CEO of ZenaTech. “The firm is a natural fit to help execute our growth strategy for crop health monitoring and precision spraying to serve viticulture, large estates, and commercial farming operations across California.”

    With the global agricultural drone market projected to reach USD 10.3 billion by 2030, driven by rising demand for precision technologies in farming, California stands out as a key growth region as well as being home to nearly 90% of all US vineyard acreage. Considering California’s mounting climate and agricultural challenges, ZenaTech’s AI-powered autonomous drone solutions offer timely, scalable innovation that serves the needs of commercial enterprises, cooperatives, agriculture consultants, and public sector stakeholders.

    ZenaTech’s Drone as a Service (DaaS) business model offers both business and government customers reduced costs and convenience to utilize drones to streamline legacy processes and manual tasks such as inspections, surveying, maintenance, precision agriculture and inventory management ─ there is no need to purchase drone hardware and software, find a drone pilot, manage maintenance and operation, or acquire regulatory approvals. The model also offers scalability to use more often or less often based on business needs and utilizes ZenaDrone’s multifunction AI autonomous drones.

    The company has closed six acquisitions across the US to date as part of its DaaS business model and strategy and has announced it plans to complete approximately 20 more in the next 12 months. Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    Other recent developments in the markets include:

    Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) recently announced it has purchased Sentera, a St. Paul, Minnesota-based agriculture startup that uses smart imagery technology to monitor crop health via drone cameras.

    The acquisition, announced May 23, allows the John Deere tractor maker to integrate Sentera’s technologies into its digital farm management system to help farmers make more data-backed decisions. Drones equipped with Sentera’s cameras can fly over fields at high speeds and take high-resolution images that are then processed to generate digital maps that locate harmful weeds and pests, assess crop health and identify any disease pressures, according to Deere.

    EHang Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: EH), the world’s leading urban air mobility (“UAM”) technology platform company, recently announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with Reignwood Aviation Group. Leveraging their respective strengths, the two parties will collaborate under China’s national strategy for developing the low-altitude economy, guided by the principles of technology empowerment, scenario-driven innovation, and global expansion. Together, they aim to set a global standard for integrating traditional general aviation with next-generation electric vertical take-off and landing (“eVTOL”) aircraft.

    According to the agreement, Reignwood Aviation Group plans to deploy eVTOLs at scale, prioritizing at its operational hubs in key cultural and tourism destinations. The partnership will begin with consumer-facing applications such as low-altitude tourism and related ground services. Over time, the cooperation will further expand to UAM field to build a three-dimensional urban transportation network. In the long term, the two parties aim to expand to more scenarios and low-altitude services including passenger transportation, aerial logistics, emergency response, etc.

    AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AGCO), a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision ag technology, recently announced it has entered into a set of agreements with Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited (“TAFE”). The agreements resolve all outstanding disputes and other matters related to the commercial relationship between AGCO and TAFE as well as TAFE’s shareholding in AGCO, ownership and use of the Massey Ferguson brand in India and certain other countries, and other key governance issues between the parties.

    The agreements will become effective upon the completion by AGCO and TAFE of certain governmental and other processes in India relating to the repurchase of the shares held by AGCO in TAFE.

    AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS), a leading provider of advanced drone and aerial imaging solutions, recently announced the sale of two additional eBee X drones to South Korea, expanding the country’s installed base of AgEagle’s eBee drones to more than 100 units. This milestone strengthens AgEagle’s strategic partnership with South Korea and reinforces its position as a leader in the Asia-Pacific drone market.

    The eBee X, AgEagle’s flagship fixed-wing mapping drone, is engineered for high-precision geospatial data collection and is ideally suited for applications including surveying, mapping, and photogrammetry. This latest sale builds on a well-established fleet, further strengthening AgEagle’s reputation as a trusted provider of cutting-edge unmanned aerial systems.AgEagle CEO Bill Irby commented, “Achieving our 100th eBee drone sale in South Korea represents a key growth milestone. It reflects the growing global demand for our advanced aerial solutions and validates the strength of our platform across a range of industries and geographies. As adoption accelerates in international markets like South Korea, we remain focused on scaling operations, deepening customer relationships, and delivering high-performance drone systems that meet evolving mission needs. This progress directly supports our commitment to building sustainable value for all our stakeholders.”

    About FN Media Group:
    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

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    DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM has been compensated fifty one hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by ZenaTech, Inc. by the Company. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

    Contact Information:
    Media Contact email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com – +1(561)325-8757

    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to wildfires in Scotland, including in the Highlands and Moray

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on wildfires in Scotland. 

    Prof Rory Hadden, Chair of Fire Science, University of Edinburgh, said:

    “It is widely expected that the number of wildfires will increase in Scotland (and the UK) as we see more periods of extreme weather driven by climate change.  The recent fine weather means that vegetation has dried out and becomes susceptible to ignition sources.  Even a small heat source such as a BBQ or campfire can initiate a wildfire either by direct flame contact with vegetation, or by igniting a smouldering fire in dry vegetation and soils which will later transition to a flaming fire.

    “Once vegetation is ignited, a fire will grow extremely rapidly especially if there is wind and/or dense vegetation.  This is especially true given the recent weather conditions in Scotland and means that typically it will be challenging to fight without proper resources.  Also a smouldering fire in soils may only transition to flaming some hours after it is ignited (and there may be no obvious signs that smouldering has been ignited).  Once ignited a fire will spread rapidly through vegetation, moving fastest in the direction of the wind and up slopes.  Poor access, difficult terrain and extensive vegetation coverage means that the fire can spread over large areas relatively quickly.

    “The impacts of these fires are of course significant.  There is a huge cost to the fire and rescue services in fighting and managing these fires – drawing resources from a wide area.  There is the destruction of natural capital – the countryside provides important ecosystem services that we all rely on and these are impacted negatively by wildfires.  Loss of vegetation impacts on wildlife.  The smoke is harmful and can impact on people large distances away, exacerbating respiratory conditions.  If the fire burns into peat soils then the loss of carbon to the atmosphere will be significant and may drive future climate change.  There is also possibility of loss of property as fires move towards settlements (farms, villages, towns).

    “While there is ongoing research on this topic, there is lots we do not know around the changes in risk to people, property and environment posed by wildfires in Scotland and the UK.  The fire and rescue services are adapting but there is currently no national fire danger assessment tool or clear coordination at Government level in Scotland.  We need to work on finding measures to manage fire risk in Scotland and the UK, including fuel load management (e.g. prescribed burning, mechanical means) as well as communications with stakeholders and the public to advise of periods of higher fire danger.  This is critical because as well as climate change, we are in a period of significant changes in land use (including rewilding) across Scotland and the UK.

    “It is important to note that the leading cause of wildfires is people.  We all need to do our part when visiting the countryside to ensure we do not bring ignition sources – pack a picnic instead of a BBQ, and only have campfires in designated areas.”

    Declared interests

    Prof Rory Hadden: “Funding declaration:

    US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service;

    US Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology;

    Funding on unrelated projects from Defence and Security Accelerator;

    UKRI EPSRC.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: STATE COLLEGE – Shapiro Administration Continues to Stand Up for Pennsylvania Farmers, Families, and Food Businesses Who Will be Hurt by Proposed Federal SNAP Funding Cuts

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    July 02, 2025 – State College, PA

    ADVISORY – STATE COLLEGE – Shapiro Administration Continues to Stand Up for Pennsylvania Farmers, Families, and Food Businesses Who Will be Hurt by Proposed Federal SNAP Funding Cuts

    Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding will join Pennsylvania State Grange President Matt Espenshade, local farmers, and state legislators to bring attention to the harmful impact of proposed federal funding cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), as well as how federal cuts already in effect for other food assistance programs, will hurt Pennsylvania farmers, food businesses, and families.

    The event will highlight the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to fighting hunger in Pennsylvania while supporting our farmers, families, and food businesses. Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposes increased investments to help end hunger and support farms across Pennsylvania.

    WHO:
    Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding
    Department of Human Services Executive Secretary Andrew Barnes
    State Representative Paul Takac
    State Representative Emily Kinkead
    Pennsylvania State Grange President Matt Espenshade
    Wasson’s Farm and Market Owner Candy Wasson

    WHEN: TOMORROW, Wednesday, July 2 at 11 a.m.

    WHERE:
    Wasson’s Farm and Market (event barn)
    2545 Shingletown Road
    State College, PA 16801

    RSVP: Press attending should RSVP with news outlet and photographer and reporter names to aginfo@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Sensex, Nifty end lower as investors turn cautious over Trump’s tariff deadline

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The stock markets ended lower on Wednesday, as investor sentiment remained cautious due to US President Donald Trump’s firm stand on the upcoming tariff deadline.

    The nervousness led to a risk-off mood among investors, pulling the benchmark indices lower.

    After rising to an intra-day high of 83,935.29, the Sensex lost momentum and closed at 83,409.69, down 287.6 points or 0.34 per cent.

    The Nifty also declined by 88.45 points or 0.35 per cent to end the day at 25,453.4.

    “Mixed global cues, particularly ahead of the impending tariff deadline, are driving investor caution,” Vinod Nair of Geojit Investments Limited said.

    “Market attention is gradually shifting to crucial Q1 earnings, which have high expectations,” he added.

    Nair added that the underlying trends such as robust macroeconomic fundamentals and increased government expenditure continue to support market resilience.

    Among the Sensex stocks, the biggest losers were Bajaj Finserv, L&T, Bajaj Finance, HDFC Bank, and Bharat Electronics.

    On the other hand, Tata Steel, Asian Paints, Ultratech Cement, Trent, Maruti, and Sun Pharma were among the top gainers.

    Broader markets followed a similar trend. The Nifty Midcap100 index ended down by 0.14 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap100 index slipped 0.41 per cent.

    Sector-wise, Nifty Metal, Consumer Durables, Auto, IT, Pharma, and Healthcare managed to close in the green.

    However, Nifty Realty, Financial Services, Bank, Oil & Gas, and Media dragged the overall sentiment with losses.

    The total market capitalisation of all listed companies on the NSE stood at Rs 5.35 trillion.

    Meanwhile, the India VIX, which measures market volatility, eased slightly by 0.66 per cent to settle at 12.44 points — suggesting some cooling off in investor nervousness despite the day’s losses.

    Gold traded in a narrow range as market awaits key US data releases. Comex Gold moved between $3327 – $3340, while MCX Gold traded between Rs 97,000 – Rs 97,400.

    “The prices expected to remain in the broader range of Rs 96,500 – Rs 97,850 as participants price in potential dollar weakness and upcoming US data, including Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP), ADP non-farm employment, and unemployment figures,” Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities stated.

    (IANS)

  • Sensex, Nifty end lower as investors turn cautious over Trump’s tariff deadline

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The stock markets ended lower on Wednesday, as investor sentiment remained cautious due to US President Donald Trump’s firm stand on the upcoming tariff deadline.

    The nervousness led to a risk-off mood among investors, pulling the benchmark indices lower.

    After rising to an intra-day high of 83,935.29, the Sensex lost momentum and closed at 83,409.69, down 287.6 points or 0.34 per cent.

    The Nifty also declined by 88.45 points or 0.35 per cent to end the day at 25,453.4.

    “Mixed global cues, particularly ahead of the impending tariff deadline, are driving investor caution,” Vinod Nair of Geojit Investments Limited said.

    “Market attention is gradually shifting to crucial Q1 earnings, which have high expectations,” he added.

    Nair added that the underlying trends such as robust macroeconomic fundamentals and increased government expenditure continue to support market resilience.

    Among the Sensex stocks, the biggest losers were Bajaj Finserv, L&T, Bajaj Finance, HDFC Bank, and Bharat Electronics.

    On the other hand, Tata Steel, Asian Paints, Ultratech Cement, Trent, Maruti, and Sun Pharma were among the top gainers.

    Broader markets followed a similar trend. The Nifty Midcap100 index ended down by 0.14 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap100 index slipped 0.41 per cent.

    Sector-wise, Nifty Metal, Consumer Durables, Auto, IT, Pharma, and Healthcare managed to close in the green.

    However, Nifty Realty, Financial Services, Bank, Oil & Gas, and Media dragged the overall sentiment with losses.

    The total market capitalisation of all listed companies on the NSE stood at Rs 5.35 trillion.

    Meanwhile, the India VIX, which measures market volatility, eased slightly by 0.66 per cent to settle at 12.44 points — suggesting some cooling off in investor nervousness despite the day’s losses.

    Gold traded in a narrow range as market awaits key US data releases. Comex Gold moved between $3327 – $3340, while MCX Gold traded between Rs 97,000 – Rs 97,400.

    “The prices expected to remain in the broader range of Rs 96,500 – Rs 97,850 as participants price in potential dollar weakness and upcoming US data, including Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP), ADP non-farm employment, and unemployment figures,” Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities stated.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI: Diversified Energy Promotes Michael Garrett to Chief Accounting Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala., July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diversified Energy Company PLC (LSE: DEC, NYSE: DEC) (“Diversified” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the promotion of Michael Garrett to Chief Accounting Officer (“CAO”). Mr. Garrett, a certified public accountant, has been at Diversified since 2018, where he has held various leadership positions and currently serves as a Senior Vice President and Controller.

    In his new role, Garrett will be responsible for leading the Company’s corporate and regulatory accounting matters, external financial reporting, controllership, and tax, overseeing a team of approximately 75 financial professionals across numerous offices. Garrett will continue to report to Brad Gray, Diversified’s President & Chief Financial Officer.

    Commenting on the promotion, Brad Gray said:

    “The strength of Diversified’s accounting organization is evident in the seasoned executives who can step up and lead in new roles. Michael has a unique background and a high level of expertise in the oil and gas sector that has served him well throughout his career. His skill and experience have been invaluable to our organization for many years, including navigating complex accounting, reporting and regulatory requirements of the New York Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange. I am excited to watch Michael take on this elevated role for a publicly traded company and lead our accounting and financial reporting teams.”

    Garrett brings 20 years of advanced accounting experience to his new role. He has previously served in accounting functions at Callon Petroleum, Pfizer, and Pinnacle Airlines with progressively higher responsibilities. Garrett is a graduate of Lambuth University with a degree in accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant (“CPA”).

    For further information, please contact:

    Diversified Energy Company PLC +1 973 856 2757
    Doug Kris dkris@dgoc.com
    Senior Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Communications www.div.energy
       
    FTI Consulting dec@fticonsulting.com
    U.S. & UK Financial Public Relations  
       

    About Diversified Energy Company PLC

    Diversified is a leading publicly traded energy company focused on natural gas and liquids production, transport, marketing, and well retirement. Through our unique differentiated strategy, we acquire existing, long-life assets and invest in them to improve environmental and operational performance until retiring those assets in a safe and environmentally secure manner. Recognized by ratings agencies and organizations for our sustainability leadership, this solutions-oriented, stewardship approach makes Diversified the Right Company at the Right Time to responsibly produce energy, deliver reliable free cash flow, and generate shareholder value.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: DG Okonjo-Iweala underscores importance of partnerships to support LDCs

    Source: WTO

    Headline: DG Okonjo-Iweala underscores importance of partnerships to support LDCs

    Co-organized by Djibouti, Finland and the Executive Secretariat of the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF), the event focused on strengthening international partnerships in support of LDC trade and investment priorities. The vision for EIF Phase Three – the next stage of this Aid for Trade programme exclusively dedicated to LDCs – was also presented. Several countries announced new funding commitments to this new phase of the EIF.
    Several donors pledged new contributions to the EIF Trust Fund, providing strong momentum for Phase Three, which is set to begin in October 2025. Sweden announced a contribution of SEK 75 million (approx. CHF 6.3 million), Denmark DKK 20 million (approx. CHF 2.5 million), Norway NOK 12 million (approx. CHF 0.9 million), France EUR 300,000, (approx. CHF 0.3 million) and Liechtenstein CHF 50,000, building on Finland’s earlier pledge of EUR 2.5 million (approx. CHF 2.3 million) and a GBP 400,000 (approx. CHF 0.4 million) contribution from the United Kingdom to EIF Phase Three. These pledges will help ensure a solid start to the next phase of EIF support, which is designed to deliver catalytic and transformative impact for LDCs through trade.
    In her opening remarks, DG Okonjo-Iweala highlighted the growing gap between development needs and available resources, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of the EIF in helping LDCs benefit from trade. She noted that the partnership has “gone from strength to strength,” supporting USD 1 billion in LDC exports and enabling hundreds of thousands of small farmers and entrepreneurs to improve their livelihoods.
    She also shared the story of Sittina Farate Ibrahima from Comoros, whose biocosmetics business was developed with EIF support. “Today, 80% of her products are exported to Europe. This is what Aid for Trade to LDCs is all about.”
    Looking ahead, the Director-General welcomed the shared ambition behind EIF Phase Three and its USD 200 million funding target. “`We hope we can count on all the partners in bringing this vision to life, she said, noting that the event would serve as “a springboard for a high-level launch of the next phase of the EIF partnership at the 14th Ministerial Conference.”
    The event brought together ministers from Djibouti, Finland and Guinea, along with senior representatives from other least-developed and donor countries, including Sweden, Denmark, France, Germany, Norway, Liechtenstein and the United Arab Emirates. UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan delivered closing remarks, alongside representatives from other international organizations and other development partners. Discussions focused on priorities for EIF Phase Three, which will run up to 2031.
    “From the perspective of the WTO LDC Group, EIF Phase Three comes at a critical time,” said H.E. Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh, Minister of Economy and Finance of Djibouti. “What we need is a mechanism that catalyses our efforts, brings innovation to respond to our evolving trade and investment priorities, supports stronger institutions, and helps unlock new partnerships. We see in the vision for EIF Phase Three a foundation to move towards precisely that. For many of our countries, including my own, the EIF has not only been a financial and technical partner. It has also been a catalyst for inclusive economic transformation.”
    “Finland is a longstanding supporter of multilateral efforts to strengthen the trade capacities of least-developed countries,” said H.E. Ville Tavio, Minister for Foreign Trade and Development of Finland. “We believe in the transformative power of trade as, when matched with targeted support and strong local ownership, it can unlock lasting development impact. The EIF has consistently proven to be a trusted and effective partner for LDCs. As it enters a new phase, we see an opportunity to deepen its reach and amplify its role in advancing inclusive and sustainable growth. Finland is proud to contribute to this next chapter.”
    A follow-up pledging and partnership event is scheduled for September 2025 on the margins of the WTO Public Forum in Geneva.
    EIF Phase Three aims to mobilize at least USD 200 million to help LDCs strengthen trade capacities, expand exports, and harness trade for inclusive, sustainable development.
    More information on the EIF and its work is available here.

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    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: Chicken Road Game India 2025 Announce – Play This Trending Game and Win Real Money

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    India and its people are famous for tracking down their fun and making the most out of what they have got. Indian crowd loves online games, and one game is stealing this show, none other than the Chicken Road. It’s a super fun, simple game where a cartoon chicken runs across a dangerous path.

    >>> Learn More About Chicken Road Game >>>

    The Chicken Road game was launched on April 4, 2024, by InOut Games. This game is a hit because it’s easy to play, works on phones, and gives you a chance to win big. In this game, players will be dealing with a silly chicken that dodge traps while deciding whether to grab your money or keep going for more. 
    In this article, we’ll explain what Chicken Road is, why Indians love it, how to play, and what it means for gaming in India.

    >>> Learn More About Chicken Road Game >>>

    What Is Chicken Road?

    Chicken Road is a game that asks, “Why did the chicken cross the road?” The answer: to win you cash obviously. This game is made by InOut Games. It is a company with a gaming license from Curacao. 

    >>> Learn More About Chicken Road Game >>>

    Chicken Road game is a  “crash-style” game. You bet money here, and watch the chicken run across a path that is full of traps like fire or holes, and decide when to stop and take your winnings. Each step the chicken takes makes your prize bigger, but if it hits a trap, then you will lose it all in a single second.

    The game has four levels:

    • Easy: 24 steps, very small chance of losing, and prizes up to 24.5x your bet.
    • Medium: A bit harder, and bigger rewards.
    • Hard: More risk, and obviously even bigger prizes.
    •  Hardcore: 15 steps, super risky, but you could win up to ₹1,810,000 on a ₹16,500 bet.

    The game is fair and legal with a 98% chance of giving back some money to players.

    How to Download Chicken Road India?

    You can download Chicken Road easily on your phone or play it online. These are the different platforms.

    You can download the Chicken road game on mobile phones as: 

    • Google Play Store: Search “Chicken Road” for arcade versions. 
    • TapTap: Download the latest APK for Android.
    •  APKPure: A safe place to get the APK file for Android phones.

    If you aren’t planning on downloading then you can play on Casino Websites:

    • Visit licensed online casinos partnered with InOut Games to play the real-money version.
    •  No app is needed.

    There are also official website for you to play on:

    • Check chickenroad.in or chicken-road.com for download links or free demo modes.

    Why Indians Love Chicken Road Game?

    Do you know that India has over 500 million smartphone users? And do you know what runs best on these phones? Obviously, Chicken Road game.This game is perfect for them. The following are the reasons why indians love it more:

    • Works on Any Phone: You don’t need a fancy phone or fast internet. The game is light and needs only 26.2 MB if you download it and runs smoothly on 4G or even 3G. You can play it on a bus, at home, or anywhere.
    • Super Easy to Play: Pick a bet that can go as low as ₹1, then choose a level, and then finally tap “Go.” The chicken starts running, and you can tap “Cash Out” when you want to stop. The funny chicken and goofy animations will definitely make you laugh.
    • Made for India: You can bet in rupees, and feel just at home. There are casinos like 1Win or Pin-Up that give special bonuses, like some extra money when you deposit. The game also has a silly story that feels like an Indian cartoon or joke.
    • Bragging and Winning: Players love chasing the “Golden Egg Jackpot” or setting high scores. They share wins on WhatsApp or Instagram. You can also try it free in demo mode before betting real money.

    How to Play and Win?

    Chicken Road is played with a big blend of luck, and smart thinking. It’s fair because you can check if each round is honest using special codes. 

    How It Works:

    • Pick a bet from ₹1 to ₹16,500.
    • Choose a level from the options of Easy, Medium, Hard, or Hardcore.
    • Tap “Go” to start the chicken’s run.
    • Each step raises the prize multiplier.
    • Tap “Cash Out” to keep your money.
    • Or just keep going for a bigger prize. 
    • The chicken will lose if it hits a trap.

    Chicken Road: Tips to Win:

    • Start Easy: Try Easy or Medium mode first when you are playing as a beginner or just playing casually.
    • Bet Small: Start with ₹100 or ₹500. If you win, bet a bit more next time. Don’t bet all your money.
    • Cash Out Early: Try stoping at 2x–5x in easy mode for small, steady wins. In Hard or Hardcore, you might wait longer, but it’s risky.
    • Practice Free: Use demo mode to test when to cash out without losing money.
    • Be Smart: Don’t chase losses. Set a budget, like ₹500 a day, and stop when it’s gone.

    How to Sign Up for Chicken Road Casino India?

    You can start playing this game by following the steps below.

    • Choose a Trusted Casino: Choose a licensed platform that offers Chicken Road and supports INR and UPI payments.
    • Go to the Website/App: Visit the casino’s official site or app and find the “Sign Up” button.
    • Select Registration Option: You can now sign up using your email, phone number, or social media.
    • Enter Basic Details: Just fill in the personal info that is asked for on the form. Also, create a secure password.
    • Verify and Play: Confirm your account via email/SMS, deposit funds, and search for Chicken Road to start playing.

    Is Chicken Road Legal in India?

    Chicken Road app is safe and legal in most Indian states. The only exceptions in this case are Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. Gambling laws of these states are stricter and does not allow online gambling. The gme also has Curacao license and fair-play technology to make sure that there is trust and reliability.

    • Age Limit: Players must be 18 or older.
    • ID Check: KYC verification needed for real-money play.
    • Play Responsibly: Use bet limits or timers to stay in control.
    • Secure Payments: Supports trusted apps like UPI.
    • Help Available: Email or app chat for support.

    Chicken Road Game: Terms and Conditions

    • The Goal: You have to get that chicken to the golden egg while stepping up multipliers.
    • Betting Options: You can start small with ₹1 or go all-in with ₹16,500.
    • Multipliers: These multipliers grow with each step. The minimal level is from a modest x1.02 in Easy Mode to a surprising x3,203,384.80 in Hard Mode.
    • Cash-Out Freedom: You can hit the cash-out button whenever you’re ready to take out your winnings.
    • Fair Play: The game uses blockchain technology to prove every round is legitimate. You can check “My Bet History” to see for yourself.

    Conclusion

    Chicken Road Game in India is winning hearts and hearts. You shouldn’t wait out on this jackpot opportunity that does not require a resume of gambling for making millions by the day. It’s fun, cheap to play, and works for everyone, from students to office workers. Its mix of laughs, risks, and rewards makes it feel like an Indian festival. 

    The game is full of excitement and surprises. If you are planning to play it safe with small bets or going big for the jackpot, then Chicken Road is a wild adventure for you.

    Company Name – Chicken Road
    Address – 673, JMD Building, Gurugram, Haryana
    Company Website: https://chicken-roadd.com/
    Email: sumit@chicken-roadd.com
    Phone: +91-2049157035
    Contact Person Name: Sumit

    Disclaimer
    This information is for general and entertainment purposes only—not legal, financial, or gambling advice. Always verify details and follow your local laws. Gambling carries risks; wager responsibly and only what you can afford to lose, and seek help if you feel out of control. Some links may be affiliate links at no extra cost to you, and wild may be unavailable or restricted in certain regions.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Shell plc filed amendments to its Form 20-Fs for 2023 and 2024 with SEC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

     July 2, 2025

    Shell plc filed amendments to its Form 20-Fs for the year ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, (“2023/24 Form 20-F/As”), with the US Securities and Exchange Commission on July 2, 2025.

    The 2023/24 Form 20-F/As can be downloaded from www.shell.com/investors/results-and-reporting/annual-report or www.sec.gov.

    The printed copies of the 2034/24 Form 20-F/As are expected to be available from August 15, 2025, and can be requested, free of charge, at www.shell.com/investors/results-and-reporting/annual-report/order-printed-annual-reports.

    Copies of the Annual Report and Accounts can be viewed online or downloaded in pdf format at www.shell.com/investors/results-and-reporting/annual-report.

    Enquiries

    Shell Media Relations International: +44 20 7934 5550

    US Media Relations: Contact Shell US Media Team

    LEI number of Shell plc: 21380068P1DRHMJ8KU70

    Classification: Additional regulated information required to be disclosed under the laws of the United Kingdom

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – ENVI and AGRI Members to discuss draft report on biological control agents – Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety

    Source: European Parliament

    On 3 July 2025, ENVI and AGRI Members will consider a draft own-initiative report calling for faster registration and uptake of biological control agents, in light of a forthcoming Commission proposal

    In a joint discussion, Members of the ENVI and AGRI Committees will examine the draft report by co-rapporteurs Alexander Bernhuber (EPP, ENVI) and Anna Strolenberg (Greens/EFA, AGRI) on ensuring faster registration and uptake of biological control agents. The report responds to the Commission’s upcoming legislative proposal, expected in Q4 2025, to facilitate the market access of biopesticides, as announced in the Communication “A Vision for Agriculture and Food.” The co-rapporteurs call for a legal definition of biological control agents and a framework for their accelerated authorisation to enhance legal certainty, foster investment in sustainable alternatives and prevent market fragmentation. They stress the need for a fast-track procedure, financial support, and increased knowledge exchange and capacity-building regarding both approval processes and Integrated Pest Management. ENVI and AGRI Members will now submit amendments, with a vote foreseen in the October II plenary.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Every 10th farmer at Moscow fairs helps SVO participants – Sergei Sobyanin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since the beginning of the special military operation (SVO), participants in Moscow fairs have sent more than 250 tons of products to soldiers and residents of the new territories of Russia. Every 10th farmer makes his contribution. This was reported by Sergei Sobyanin in his telegram channel.

    “Sergey from the Tula region, a supplier to the Moscow fair on Semenovskaya Square, has been giving the children not only his own products since the very beginning of the military operation. Together with his children, he makes trench candles from natural materials and a dry shower. He also organizes fundraising, purchases food and personal hygiene items,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin 

    Maya, a participant in the weekend fair, sends a car with food to the SVO zone every month. Her husband and son are now defending their homeland. Farmer Miron from the Bryansk region sends vegetables and fruits that he grew himself, and on holidays he cooks pilaf for military border territories.

    Artists make a great contribution to supporting the fighters. The capital’s cultural organizations have collected over 165 tons of humanitarian aid.

    The Mosconcert cultural brigade has held more than a thousand speeches in the new territories of Russia for military personnel and local residents.

    The Russian Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra regularly performs in hospitals, and the Great Moscow State Circus goes on humanitarian missions. During the tour, the circus team donated funds to support the children’s social center in Gorlovka and the Pif animal shelter. The money from ticket sales was sent to the Donetsk Circus Cosmos and to purchase several vehicles for SVO fighters. The artists also regularly visit military units and hospital patients.

    In addition, over 61 thousand books were sent from Moscow to field libraries of military units, hospitals, training centers and to libraries in new territories.

    “Every deed, every package, every speech is priceless. I am grateful to everyone who does not stand aside. This is the strength of spirit and unity of our people,” Sergei Sobyanin emphasized.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/13020050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa issues first permit to vaccinate against Avian Influenza

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, July 2, 2025

    South Africa is set to launch its first-ever poultry vaccination campaign in the coming days, marking a significant step in the country’s effort to minimise the risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks.

    This follows the Department of Agriculture’s approval of a vaccination permit issued to Astral Foods Limited on 30 June 2025, authorising the company to begin vaccinations against the HPAI virus at one of its broiler breeder farms.

    Making the announcement on Tuesday, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen confirmed that the initial phase of the campaign will begin with 200 000 broiler breeders, representing approximately five percent of Astral’s total breeding stock, valued at approximately R35 million.

    Steenhuisen hailed this milestone as a testament to the strong partnership between government and the poultry industry in safeguarding national food security and protecting the livelihoods of thousands of South Africans.

    He emphasised that the vaccination campaign is a vital step to strengthen flock immunity and prevent the devastating economic losses witnessed during previous outbreaks.

    “The 2023 outbreak resulted in millions of birds being culled, which led to severe supply disruptions that affected both producers and consumers. The vaccine being used – targeting the H5 strain of the virus – is already approved for use in other countries implementing vaccination strategies against HPAI.

    In May, South Africa suspended imports of live poultry, eggs and fresh (including frozen) poultry meat from Brazil following an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza.

    The decision followed a report from Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, confirming an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1 – clade 2.3.4.4b) on 15 May 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Young CCP members become torchbearers of the country’s future

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, July 2 (Xinhua) — Despite a busy schedule of exams and end-of-semester papers, Lin Jiajun finds time every day to read articles in Qiushi, a leading journal of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, to study the latest policies and guidelines for rural development in the country.

    The 22-year-old student majoring in urban and rural planning at Nanjing University of Technology in east China’s Jiangsu Province applied to join the Communist Party of China two years ago and plans to work in a field related to rural revitalization strategy after graduation.

    While doing fieldwork in Chinese villages earlier this year, Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong Province in southern China, native Lin Jiajun was deeply moved by what he saw.

    Like many young Chinese, he is inspired and proud of the Party’s work in rural areas: between 2013 and 2020, China lifted nearly 99 million rural people out of poverty, contributing more than 70 percent to global poverty reduction during that period.

    To consolidate the achievements in the fight against poverty, the party is now implementing a rural revitalization strategy in rural areas.

    “The CCP was the driving force behind this transformation. I remember reading in high school about how young party members, many of them college graduates, would go to villages to support local communities,” Lin Jiajun said.

    “There is still so much work to be done in the villages and I want to be part of that process,” he added.

    Like Lin Jiajun, a growing number of young Chinese are applying to join the party, inspired by its ideals and the country’s development prospects.

    Newly released data showed that more than 1.78 million people under the age of 35 joined the CPC, which celebrated its 104th anniversary on Tuesday, in 2024, accounting for 83.7 percent of the party’s net membership growth for the year.

    By the end of 2024, the number of young Party members in this age group exceeded 23 million, accounting for more than one-fifth of the total CPC membership.

    As a dynamic force, these members play a key role in the CPC’s modernization efforts. Since scientific and technological innovation is the centerpiece of China’s modernization, the Party aims to build a strong country in science and technology by 2035.

    In this process, the Communist Party emphasizes the role of young professionals, entrusting them with responsible tasks within the framework of major national initiatives.

    In 2020, during preparations for the launch of China’s Long March-5 carrier rocket at the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center in southern China’s Hainan Province, 24-year-old Zhou Chengyu, the first female subsystem commander at the site, calmly directed operations.

    Zhou Chengyu’s rise through the ranks was rapid. In two years, she participated in five major launches, each in a different role, before being named commander.

    The young woman lived up to the trust placed in her. During one mission, she had to climb more than 180 nearly vertical steel steps to reach an 8-square-meter test chamber filled with cables and pipes.

    She made four such climbs a day for 60 days. In recognition of her dedication and results, her position was later designated as a “vanguard party member post.”

    “I have chosen the right path. As a representative of the younger generation of Chinese, our aspirations must go hand in hand with the goals of the country,” the young commander said.

    Official data show that the average age of key scientists behind China’s BeiDou satellite navigation system, quantum research and FAST radio telescope project is around 30.

    Indeed, a new generation of CPC members is coming to the forefront, responding to the demands of the times and realizing their potential.

    Deng Wenhao, a Communist Party member and doctoral student at Taiyuan University of Technology in north China’s Shanxi Province, remembers the day in 2024 when he gave a presentation at the United Nations headquarters in New York on his team’s technology aimed at solving climate change and food security.

    “It was incredibly exciting to turn the knowledge I had gained into something meaningful. There is no greater reward for a researcher,” he said.

    Born in 1991 in Datong, a traditional coal-producing city in Shanxi Province, Deng Wenhao grew up seeing how coal and coal-fired power plants affected people’s lives. Because his grandparents were farmers, he also saw vast stretches of barren, salt-marsh land covered in what he remembers as a “crust of salt.”

    When his supervisor suggested exploring more natural methods of capturing carbon emissions, Deng Wenhao immediately thought of these saline soils. “I thought, why not capture carbon emissions and use them to reclaim alkaline soils?” he said.

    His department found the idea unconventional, but the proposal received support. Li Ping, secretary of the CPC committee of the School of Safety Engineering and Emergency Management at Taiyuan University of Technology, said the topic met the needs of the local economy.

    “We encourage our researchers to innovate and solve practical problems. We do not limit them in their choice of research direction,” Li Ping added.

    “The CCP is constantly innovating and adapting to the spirit of the times. It is full of energy and vitality, and that is why it attracts so many young people,” Deng Wenhao said. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Delivering convenience of modern life to doorsteps of Tibetan farmers, herders

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Aerial photo taken on Nov. 5, 2020 shows villagers’ new houses in Pumaqangtang Township in Shannan, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Zhan Yan)

    When Ngawang Chophel ordered a down jacket online, he knew better than to expect it to arrive the next day. In his remote village in southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, delayed deliveries are the norm, unlike the speedy service enjoyed by those who live in the country’s more accessible regions.

    Yet, the delivery system across Xizang today has improved significantly from the past, when parcels could take weeks to arrive in remote areas, with the last mile — or more — usually done by the receiving party rather than the courier service.

    “It used to take half a month for a parcel to reach us. It was both costly and time-consuming,” said Ngawang Chophel, who hails from Pumaqangtang Township, in Nanggarze County, Shannan City of Xizang.

    In the past, people from his village, located at an altitude of 5,373 meters, faced a two-day journey across the sparsely populated plateau to the county seat, which is more than 100 kilometers away, just to collect their mail and parcels. The gasoline bill for one such trip easily came to a hefty 100 yuan (approximately 14 U.S. dollars).

    Shannan, covering a total area of 80,000 square kilometers, has a relatively small population of just 354,000. For a long time, the eight market-based courier providers operating in the city only delivered packages to the county seat, and at best, to a few townships.

    To improve the situation, Shannan set out to overhaul its mail delivery system. It started by integrating the private courier services into the publicly funded postal network, so that the two systems worked better together.

    By September 2024, the city had established a three-tier postal and courier system comprising 12 county-level digitalized hubs and 701 village or community-level service stations at both ends, with township-level posts functioning as bridges between.

    To improve village-level logistics service hubs, the city allocated 10,000 yuan in subsidies to each station last year. In addition, it reinforced rural roads and attracted branded courier providers to operate in Shannan.

    Thanks to the reform, parcels are now delivered directly to residents’ doorsteps in all 577 administrative villages across Shannan. “Our township, Pumaqangtang, is the highest in China, and now we can receive delivery packages without any obstacles, which has greatly improved our lives,” said Ngawang Chophel as he unpacked his down jacket, a package reaching him much faster than before.

    More efficient deliveries not only make residents happy. “The ‘last mile’ of parcel delivery in and out of villages is crucial for enhancing consumption, promoting rural e-commerce, and supporting broader rural revitalization efforts,” said Gyangkar, the vice mayor of Shannan.

    China, the world’s largest express delivery market, handled over 175 billion parcels in 2024, a 21.5 percent increase from the previous year. As China boasts a highly efficient courier sector, individual localities find it essential to keep up with the flow to stay economically competitive.

    No longer bothered by the arduous commute required to pick up their packages, villagers in Shannan are more inclined to shop online. Official statistics indicate that the total volume of online purchases in the city surpassed 1.45 billion yuan in 2024.

    Local businesses have been integrated into the national production and supply chain thanks to the revamped express delivery system, noted an official in Shannan. For instance, the Xizang Hongnong agricultural development company, which operates the largest modern chicken farm in Xizang, previously had to suspend construction due to delayed packages. It’s no longer the case.

    Furthermore, local agricultural products now have an easier path to reach buyers in other parts of the country due to the reform. Tashi Lhamo, an influencer with four million followers, sells local specialty food ranging from Tibetan butter to tsampa through livestreaming.

    She is pleased to see that the establishment of a logistics service station in her village in Qonggyai County has greatly supported her livestreaming business.

    As of the end of last year, nearly 600,000 courier packages had been delivered to villagers’ doorsteps as a result of the reform, benefiting over 230,000 farmers and herders.

    “This has made residents happier, and the flow of goods between urban and rural areas more efficient,” Gyangkar remarked.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Buses will temporarily replace trams between Krasnoselskaya metro station and Belorussky railway station

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Five tram routes will be changed from July 10 during the construction of a new intersection at the intersection of Kalanchevskaya Street and Masha Poryvayeva Street. For up to 28 days, ground rail transport will not run between the Krasnoselskaya metro station and Belorussky Railway Station, as well as in the area of the Russian University of Transport (MIIT) and the Novoslobodskaya metro station. The changes will affect routes No. 7, 9, 13, 37 and 50.

    Trams will operate during this period:

    — No. 7 — from the metro station “Bulvar Rokossovskogo” to the metro station “Sokolniki”;

    — No. 9 — will not work;

    — No. 13 and 50 will be combined into a single route No. 13 50, which will run from Metrogorodok past the Krasnoselskaya, Baumanskaya and Aviamotornaya metro stations to the Compressor Culture Center;

    — No. 37 — from Novogireevo station of the fourth Moscow Central Diameter (MCD-4) to Lefortovo Bridge.

    Instead of trams, compensation buses will be launched. Bus No. 07 will run from Sokolniki metro station to Belorussky railway station, and the route of electric bus C510 will be extended from Tikhvinskaya street to Novoslobodskaya metro station.

    Passengers will also be able to use buses T88, T22, 604, the museum trolleybus T and the metro.

    Passengers are asked to plan their trips in advance, taking into account temporary restrictions and follow information about all changes in the operation of trams in the Telegram channel “Deptrans. Promptly”, on the website Moscow metro and other resources of the capital’s transport complex. Information will also be available at tram stops.

    Development of the tram network

    As a result of the work on the area of three railway stations, a three-track tram intersection will appear for the first time in the capital, said the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov. Thanks to this, the routes towards the metro stations “Prospekt Mira” and “Chistye Prudy” will be divided into directions. The work is being carried out as part of the construction of a new section along Akademika Sakharova Avenue.

    “The construction of a tram line along Akademika Sakharova Avenue is the largest tram network development project in recent decades, which is being implemented in accordance with Sergei Sobyanin’s task. Thanks to this, for the first time in the capital, there will be diametric tram routes through the city center, and the Komsomolskaya metro stations of the Circle and Sokolnicheskaya lines will be relieved by 10 percent. Convenient stops will be built on the new section and a short transfer from trams to two MCD lines will be made,” added Maxim Liksutov.

    The new tram line will connect Komsomolskaya Square with Chistoprudny Boulevard. In total, it is planned to lay more than two kilometers of tracks. With the opening of the new line, the first diametric tram routes will appear in the capital, which will connect the eastern, southern and south-eastern districts and pass through the city center. The first route will run from Metrogorodok to the Chertanovskaya metro station, and the second – from the Novogireevo station of the fourth Moscow Central Diameter to the Universitet metro station. They will connect 19 districts of Moscow and will serve about two million residents. Along the new line there are many administrative and financial institutions, such as the Ministry of Agriculture of the Russian Federation, the Federal Antimonopoly Service and the Federal Agency for State Property Management.

    Tram tracks on Academician Sakharov Avenue are being built on a separate track and will be separated from the roadway by markings. Builders are using seamless track laying technology to ensure quiet and smooth running of trams. Modern low-floor trams of Russian manufacture will be on the line. They will travel along the section on Academician Sakharov Avenue at an increased autonomous speed. This condition is included in the technical specifications for 100 new Lvenok-Moscow trams, which will arrive in the capital in 2025–2026.

    As part of the improvement of the capital’s streets, new turnouts have already been installed on Chistoprudny Boulevard in the city center, track laying continues on Academician Sakharov Avenue, and a large-scale reconstruction of tram tracks and the laying of a new section at the intersection of Kalanchevskaya Street and Masha Poryvayeva Street has begun. This will allow the new tram line along Academician Sakharov Avenue to be connected to the existing network.

    During the closure of tram traffic, specialists will also renew tram tracks in Protopopovsky Lane, on Durova and Palikha streets. Compensatory buses will run taking into account the work being carried out.

    The main reconstruction works of the tram turnaround on Chistoprudny Boulevard have been completedTram tracks are being reconstructed on Turgenevskaya Square

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What is aflatoxin, the toxic chemical behind Coles’ peanut butter recall?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thomas Jeffries, Senior Lecturer in Microbiology, Western Sydney University

    Helen Camacaro/Getty

    Coles is recalling two of its homebrand peanut butter products, over concerns they have been contaminated with aflatoxin, a toxic chemical linked to liver cancer.

    The supermarket chain has issued the recall notice for Coles Smooth Peanut Butter 1kg and Coles Crunchy Peanut Butter 1kg, with the best before date of February 5 2027. They were sold in supermarkets and online nationally between May 1 and June 30 this year.

    Aflatoxin can cause injury or illness if eaten, according to Australia’s food safety authority.

    But what is aflatoxin? How does it get into food? And what is the risk if you eat it?

    What is aflatoxin? Where does it occur?

    Aflatoxins are a toxic chemical (a mycotoxin) produced by fungi. The mould-like fungi that produce aflatoxins belong to a large group called Aspergillus.

    These fungi are found in all environments, for example in soils, compost, building surfaces and on crops and other plants, and can cause infections or poisoning in humans and animals.

    Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, which produce aflatoxins, thrive mainly in agricultural crops but also in soils, rotting food and compost. The fungi emerge as spores and form networks of microscopic filaments that can grow on products such as grains and nuts.

    As these fungi grow they release a range of chemicals, including aflatoxins, that can lead to contamination of produce before and after harvest, or after processing.

    Aflatoxins are some of the most poisonous types of mycotoxin.

    Different kinds of aflatoxins usually affect contaminated food (aflatoxins B1, B2, G1), crops (G2) and milk (M1).

    Which foods are most risky?

    Crops produced and stored in warm, humid or moist tropical locations are most at risk, as toxin-producing moulds thrive in these conditions.

    High-risk foods include peanuts, corn and tree nuts (such as brazil, walnut and pistachio nuts). The toxin-producing fungi can also grow on wheat, rice, sorghum and spice crops such as turmeric, chilli, ginger and coriander.

    If animals graze on contaminated crops, their milk and meat can also become contaminated.

    Internationally, the Joint Food and Agriculture Administration and World Health Organization is responsible for setting guidelines and monitoring standards for mycotoxins via its expert committee on food additives.

    In Australia, aflatoxin food contamination is not common. In the past decade, there have only been a handful of recalls.

    Why are aflatoxins dangerous?

    Aflatoxins can damage your liver and cause cancer.

    Eating a lot of contaminated foods over a short period of time can lead to aflatoxicosis, acute poisoning that immediately damages the liver. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and convulsions, and may be life-threating.

    Over a long period, smaller amounts of contaminated foods can lead to liver cancer, birth defects, kidney disease and immune system dysfunction.

    There is no specific treatment for alfatoxins. Management after acute or long-term exposure focuses on addressing symptoms and monitoring liver health.

    How can I stay safe?

    There is not much individuals can do to control the presence of aflatoxin and other mycotoxins in foods, as contamination occurs during agriculture and processing.

    You should store nuts and nut products in a way that stops mould growing. Use well-sealed containers kept in dry and cool conditions.

    Freezing and cooking may kill the fungi, but the toxin can survive extreme temperatures.

    Unfortunately, it is difficult to see the fungi with the naked eye. However you should avoid visibly mouldy foods and throw away nuts and grains that are shrivelled or discoloured.

    What should I do if I’ve bought or eaten these products?

    Coles has advised customers to return the products to stores and contact its hotline for more information (1800 061 562).

    If you’re concerned you may have eaten contaminated peanut butter, speak to a health professional.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. What is aflatoxin, the toxic chemical behind Coles’ peanut butter recall? – https://theconversation.com/what-is-aflatoxin-the-toxic-chemical-behind-coles-peanut-butter-recall-260194

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Dairy Sector – Guy Roper to Chair NZ Dairy Companies Association (DCANZ)

    Source: Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ)

    The Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ) has appointed Guy Roper as its Independent Chairman.
    Mr Roper takes up the position from Matt Bolger, who stepped down at the end of last year following his appointment to Fonterra’s senior management team.
    Mr Roper is an experienced director, with a strong background in the dairy industry.
    As Chief Executive of Port Taranaki for six years up until 2021, he played an important role in the supply chain that enables New Zealand’s dairy exports. Before this, he held a variety of roles in the dairy sector, including at Fonterra as Global Account Director for Nestlé and as Commercial Director of Global Trade and Ingredients, as well as a farmer-elected director of the former Kiwi Co-operative Dairies, one of the two co-operatives that merged to form Fonterra. He currently holds directorships of Fisher Funds Management and Port Nelson.
    As Independent Chair of DCANZ, Mr Roper will chair a governance group comprising CEO’s and executive leaders of 11 dairy companies that together account for more than 98% of the milk processed in New Zealand. These companies come together at DCANZ to work in the best interests of the dairy industry.
    “DCANZ is pleased to welcome Guy to this role,” says Brendhan Greaney, CEO of Tatua, speaking on behalf of the DCANZ Executive Committee.
    “His governance capabilities, combined with a wealth of relevant knowledge and experience from previous executive roles, and his general passion for improving New Zealand’s prosperity through trade, will be important assets for DCANZ.”
    Mr Roper says: “I am excited to have this opportunity to contribute to a sector that I believe in and identify with.
    “The dairy industry plays an important role in New Zealand, and the leadership of dairy companies matters, especially in challenging times”.
    DCANZ is focused on growing dairy trade opportunities. Not only does this mean bringing down trade barriers, it also includes ensuring dairy exports, which currently deliver 35% of New Zealand’s total goods trade earnings, continue to be supplied within efficient and globally respected food regulatory and biosecurity frameworks. DCANZ also works to maintain New Zealand’s reputation as a reliable supplier of top-quality, safe and sustainably produced dairy products.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New Hope: Improving Livestock Business Models within and across Borders

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and New Hope Liuhe, a leading livestock enterprise in the People’s Republic of China (PRC), are working together to focused on sustainable agribusiness and environmental protection. The partnership promotes circular agriculture and improves the whole industrial chain. By expanding into new markets such as Viet Nam, New Hope has replicated innovations from the PRC to help preserve local workers’ and farmers’ livelihoods and strengthen food security.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 2, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 2, 2025.

    Parents of kids in daycare are terrified following Melbourne abuse allegations. What can they do?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Danielle Arlanda Harris, Associate Professor in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Griffith University Parents have been left reeling by news a male Melbourne childcare worker has been charged with 70 counts related to the alleged sexual abuse of young children in his care. The charges include sexual penetration

    We all have kangaroos hopping around our coin purse – and they’ve been on money since 1795
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Dyer, Associate Professor, Department of Physiology, Monash University The one tonne gold kangaroo coin at the Perth Mint. Shutterstock On the Australian one dollar coin, you will often find the famous representation of a mob of five kangaroos. But when did the kangaroo first appear on

    The Bradbury Group features Palestinian journalist Dr Yousef Aljamal, Middle East report and political panel
    Asia Pacific Report In the new weekly political podcast, The Bradbury Group, last night presenter Martyn Bradbury talked with visiting Palestinian journalist Dr Yousef Aljamal. They assess the current situation in Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza and what New Zealand should be doing. As Bradbury, publisher of The Daily Blog, notes, “Fourth Estate public broadcasting

    New laws to make it harder for large Australian and foreign companies to avoid paying tax
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kerrie Sadiq, Professor of Taxation, QUT Business School, and ARC Future Fellow, Queensland University of Technology The Conversation, CC BY The beginning of the financial year means for the first time in Australia the public will see previously unreleased tax reports produced by multinational taxpayers. These documents,

    ‘Shit in, shit out’: AI is coming for agriculture, but farmers aren’t convinced
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tom Lee, Senior Lecturer, School of Design, University of Technology Sydney David Gray / AFP / Getty Images Australian farms are at the forefront of a wave of technological change coming to agriculture. Over the past decade, more than US$200 billion (A$305 billion) has been invested globally

    The National Anti-Corruption Commission turns 2 – has it restored integrity to federal government?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By A J Brown, Professor of Public Policy & Law, Centre for Governance & Public Policy, Griffith University The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) opened its doors two years ago this week amid much fanfare and high expectations. Since then the body has attracted considerable criticism, overshadowing a solid,

    Gum disease, decay, missing teeth: why people with mental illness have poorer oral health
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bonnie Clough, Senior Lecturer, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University mihailomilovanovic/Getty Images People with poor mental health face many challenges. One that’s perhaps lesser known is that they’re more likely than the overall population to have poor oral health. Research has shown people with serious mental illness

    Farming within Earth’s limits is still possible – but it will take a Herculean effort
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michalis Hadjikakou, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Sustainability, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering & Built Environment, Deakin University Patrick Pleul/Getty The way we currently produce and consume food takes a big toll on the environment. Worldwide, farming is responsible for more than 20%

    News laws to make it harder for large Australian and foreign companies to avoid paying tax
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kerrie Sadiq, Professor of Taxation, QUT Business School, and ARC Future Fellow, Queensland University of Technology The Conversation, CC BY The beginning of the financial year means for the first time in Australia the public will see previously unreleased tax reports produced by multinational taxpayers. These documents,

    What did ancient Rome smell like? Honestly, often pretty rank
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thomas J. Derrick, Gale Research Fellow in Ancient Glass and Material Culture, Macquarie University minoandriani/Getty Images The roar of the arena crowd, the bustle of the Roman forum, the grand temples, the Roman army in red with glistening shields and armour – when people imagine ancient Rome,

    Memo to Shane Jones: what if NZ needs more regional government, not less?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jeffrey McNeill, Honorary Research Associate, School of People, Environment and Planning, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – Massey University If the headlines are anything to go by, New Zealand’s regional councils are on life support. Regional Development Minister Shane Jones recently wondered whether “there’s going to be a

    Antarctic summer sea ice is at record lows. Here’s how it will harm the planet – and us
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Edward Doddridge, Senior Research Associate in Physical Oceanography, University of Tasmania An icebreaker approaches Denman Glacier in March, when there was 70% less Antarctic sea ice than usual. Pete Harmsen AAD On her first dedicated scientific voyage to Antarctica in March, the Australian icebreaker RSV Nuyina found

    Micronesian Summit in Majuro this week aims to be ‘one step ahead’
    By Giff Johnson, editor, Marshall Islands Journal/RNZ Pacific correspondent in Majuro The Micronesian Islands Forum cranks up with officials meetings this week in Majuro, with the official opening for top leadership from the islands tomorrow morning. Marshall Islands leaders are being joined at this summit by their counterparts from Kiribati, Nauru, Federated States of Micronesia,

    Distressed by all the bad news? Here’s how to stay informed but still look after yourself
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Reza Shabahang, Research Fellow in Human Cybersecurity, Monash University and Academic Researcher in Media Psychology, Flinders University KieferPix/Shutterstock If you’re feeling like the news is particularly bad at the moment, you’re not alone. But many of us can’t look away – and don’t want to. Engaging with

    What are police allowed to do at protests and who keeps them in check?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Hine, Senior Lecturer in Criminology, University of the Sunshine Coast Earlier this week, former Greens candidate Hannah Thomas was hospitalised with serious injuries after being arrested at a protest in Sydney. This incident sparked public outcry, raising questions about the limits of police power and what

    Trump demands an end to the war in Gaza – could a ceasefire be close?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marika Sosnowski, Postdoctoral research fellow, The University of Melbourne Anas-Mohammed/Shutterstock Hopes are rising that Israel and Hamas could be inching closer to a ceasefire in the 20-month war in Gaza. US President Donald Trump is urging progress, taking to social media to demand: MAKE THE DEAL IN

    A new ‘prac payment’ has just kicked in. But it ignores many uni students
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Lambert, Associate Professor Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Wollongong Fly View Productions/ Getting Images On Tuesday, some Australian university students got access to a new payment. The Commonwealth Prac Payment is available to eligible teaching, nursing, midwifery and social work students. It will provide A$331.65 a

    ‘I’m going to send letters’: the deadline for Trump’s ‘reciprocal’ trade tariffs is looming
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Draper, Professor, and Executive Director: Institute for International Trade, and Director of the Jean Monnet Centre of Trade and Environment, University of Adelaide Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images US President Donald Trump’s 90-day pause on implementing so-called “reciprocal” tariffs on some 180 trading partners ends on

    2 polls have Tasmania headed for another hung parliament, but disagree on which party is ahead
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne Two Tasmanian state polls imply another hung parliament at the July 19 election under Tasmania’s proportional system. In one of these polls, Labor leads the Liberals, while

    Preventive versus pre-emptive strikes.
    Headline: Preventive versus pre-emptive strikes. – 36th Parallel Assessments Photo credit: Reuters. Conceptual clarity is important in any context but especially when it comes to international relations, foreign policy and the initiation of conflict. Recent events in the Middle East have shown once again how clarity in the use of words is often deliberately obfuscated

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: ‘Shit in, shit out’: AI is coming for agriculture, but farmers aren’t convinced

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Tom Lee, Senior Lecturer, School of Design, University of Technology Sydney

    David Gray / AFP / Getty Images

    Australian farms are at the forefront of a wave of technological change coming to agriculture. Over the past decade, more than US$200 billion (A$305 billion) has been invested globally into the likes of pollination robots, smart soil sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) systems to help make decisions.

    What do the people working the land make of it all? We interviewed dozens of Australian farmers about AI and digital technology, and found they had a sophisticated understanding of their own needs and how technology might help – as well as a wariness of tech companies’ utopian promises.

    The future of farming

    The supposed revolution coming to agriculture goes by several names: “precision agriculture”, “smart farming”, and “agriculture 4.0” are some of the more common ones.

    These names all gesture towards a future in which the relationships between humans, computing and nature have been significantly reconfigured. Perhaps remote sensing technology will monitor ever more of a farm system, autonomous vehicles will patrol it, and AI will predict crop growth or cattle weight gain.

    But there’s another story to tell about the way technological change happens. It involves people and communities creating their own future, their own sense of important change from the past.

    AI, country style

    Our research team conducted more than 35 interviews with farmers, specifically livestock producers, from across Australia.

    The dominant themes of their responses were captured in two pithy quotes: “shit in, shit out” and “more automation, less features”.

    “Shit in, shit out” is an earthier version of the “garbage in, garbage out” adage in computer science. If the data going into a model is unreliable or overly abstract, then the outputs will be shaped by those errors.

    This captured a real concern for many farmers. They didn’t feel they could trust new technologies if they didn’t understand what knowledge and information they had been built with.

    A different kind of automation

    On the other hand, “more automation, less features” is what farmers want: technologies that may not have a lot of bells and whistles, but can reliably take a task off their hands.

    Australian farmers have a ready appetite for labour-saving technologies. When human bodies are scarce, as they often are in rural Australia, machines are created to fill the void.

    Windmills, wire fences, and even the iconic Australian sheepdog have been a crucial part of the technological narrative of settler colonial farming. These things are not “autonomous” in the same way as computer-powered vehicles and drones, but they offer similar advantages to farmers.

    What these classic farm technologies have in common is a simplicity that derives from a clarity of purpose. They are the opposite of the “everything apps” that fuel the dreams of many Silicon Valley entrepreneurs.

    “More automation, less features” is in this sense a farmer envisaging a digital product that fits with their image of a useful technology: transparent in its operations, and a reliable replacement for or an addition to human labour.

    The lesson of the Suzuki Sierra Stockman

    When speaking with one farmer about favoured technologies of her lifetime, she mentioned the Suzuki Sierra Stockman. These small, no-frills, four-wheel-drive vehicles became something of an icon on Australian sheep and cattle farms through the 1970s, ‘80s and ’90s.

    By the 1990s, the Suzuki Sierra Stockman had an iconic status among Australian farmers.
    Turbo_J / Flickr

    Reflecting on her memories of first using the vehicle, the farmer said:

    Once I learnt that I could actually draft cattle out with the Suzuki, that changed everything. You could do exactly what you did on a horse with a vehicle.

    It seems unlikely that Suzuki’s engineers in Japan envisaged their little jeep chasing cattle in the paddocks of Central West of NSW. The Suzuki was in a sense remade by farmers who found innovative uses for it.

    Future technology must be simple, adaptable and reliable

    The combustion engine was a key technological change on farms in the 20th century. Computers may play a similar role in the 21st.

    We are perhaps yet to see a digital product as iconic as wire fences, windmills, sheepdogs and the Suzuki Stockman. Computers are still largely technologies of the office, not the paddock.

    However, this is changing as computers get smaller and are wired into water tanks, soil monitors and in-paddock scales. More data input from these sensors means AI systems have more scope to help farmers make decisions.

    AI may well become a much-loved tool for farmers. But that journey to iconic status will depend as much on how farmers adapt the technology as on how the developers build it. And we can guess at what it will look like: simple, adaptable and reliable.

    This article is based on research conducted by the Foragecaster project, led by AgriWebb and supported by funding from Food Agility CRC Ltd, funded under the Commonwealth Government CRC Program. The CRC Program supports industry-led collaborations between industry, researchers and the community. This project was also supported by funding from Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA).

    – ref. ‘Shit in, shit out’: AI is coming for agriculture, but farmers aren’t convinced – https://theconversation.com/shit-in-shit-out-ai-is-coming-for-agriculture-but-farmers-arent-convinced-259997

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Myrtle Point Center in Roseburg Relocating

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Coos County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides occurring March 13-20.

    Beginning Thursday, July 10, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Myrtle Point to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

    COOS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Myrtle Point City Hall
    Conference Room
    424 Fifth St.
    Myrtle Point, OR  97458

    Opens at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, July 10

    Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

    Permanently closes at 4:30 p.m., Friday, July 11

    Additionally, the SBA also announced today the relocation of its Roseburg Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) to the Roseburg Public Safety Center beginning Wednesday, July 2 at 8 a.m.

    SBA opened the DLOC to provide personalized assistance to Roseburg residents, small businesses and private nonprofit organizations affected by March Storms and flooding.

    The ODHS DLOC will permanently close Thursday, July 3 at close of business. The Roseburg Public Safety Center DLOC will open Wednesday, July 2 with the location and hours of operation as indicated below.

    DOUGLAS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Roseburg Public Safety Center
    Third Floor – Salmon Conference Room 303
    700 SE Douglas Ave.
    Roseburg, OR  97470

    Opens at 8 a.m., Wednesday, July 2

    Mondays – Fridays, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

    Closed Friday, July 4 for Independence Day

    DOUGLAS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS)
    Third Floor Conference Room
    738 W Harvard Ave.
    Roseburg, OR  97471

    Wednesday, 8:00 a.m. -4:30 p.m.
    Fridays, 8:00 a.m. -4:30 p.m.

    Permanently closes at 4:30 p.m., Thursday, July 3

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. 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 not paid due to the disaster.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    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 filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Aug. 25, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 24, 2026.

    ###

    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, 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 New Zealand: Rural health roadshow coming to Ōamaru

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Rural Health and Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey will be coming to Ōamaru today as part of the rural health roadshow across the country. 

    “The rural health roadshow is an opportunity for me to hear direct feedback from the public and those who are working in rural health about what’s working well and where the barriers may be. The roadshow is also a great opportunity to hear how well the Rural Health Strategy is being implemented,” Mr Doocey says.

    “I started the roadshow in Levin and have since visited Wairoa and Wānaka. I am excited to now be in Ōamaru to hear from the community and people working in rural health.”

    The roadshow builds on initiatives already in train to improve rural health care services. 

    “Budget 2025 delivered for Kiwis living in rural and remote communities. The Government is investing $164 million over four years to strengthen urgent and after-hours care nationwide, meaning 98 per cent of Kiwis will be able to access these services within one hour’s drive of their home.

    “We are also improving access to primary care including access to 24/7 digital care, training more new doctors and investing to increase the number of nurses in primary care. 

    “I was pleased to hear from our hardworking farmers at Fieldays where I heard loud and clear that access to healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for people living in rural and remote communities. 

    “To improve access to mental health support I was pleased that the Government recently announced $3 million over four years, to help improve rural communities’ access to primary mental health services and specialised services. The Government is also doubling its investment in the Rural Wellbeing Fund to $4 million over the next four years. 

    “All New Zealanders deserve timely access to quality health care and this Government is committed to improving health and mental health outcomes, including for the one in five living in our rural communities.

    “It is important that the Government continues the conversation with rural communities on how rural health care services can be improved. I have been thrilled with the support the roadshow has received so far, and I look forward to continuing to hear from our rural communities.” 
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Releases List of Wyoming Wins in One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    July 1, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) today released the following statement and list highlighting some Wyoming specific wins included in the One Big Beautiful Bill that passed the Senate today.  

    “The One Big Beautiful Bill represents a victory for our state and our nation’s future,” Lummis said. “This legislation reverses years of federal policies that hurt Wyoming’s energy workers and families, instead focusing on real American priorities: expanding domestic energy production, cutting taxes for working families, and backing our ranchers and farmers.”

    Background: 

    Coal Industry:

    • Reduced Royalty Rates: Cuts federal coal royalty rates from 12.5% to 7% for new and existing leases through 2034 to incentivize production and increase revenue.
    • Mandatory New Leases: Requires Interior Secretary to lease at least 4 million additional acres of known recoverable coal reserves within 90 days of enactment.
    • Enhanced Market Access: Eliminates regulatory barriers that have prevented coal development on federal lands.

    Oil & Gas:

    • Quarterly Lease Sales: Mandates BLM hold quarterly lease sales in nine Western states, including Wyoming, for ten years.
    • Extended Drilling Permits: Increases drilling permits from three to four years, providing greater operational certainty.
    • Eliminated Bureaucratic Fees: Removes the $5-per-acre Expression of Interest Fee that previously discouraged land nominations.
    • Restored Competitive Framework: Reinstates noncompetitive leasing to encourage exploration and streamlines surface commingling applications.
    • Fair Royalty Rates: Restores pre–Inflation Reduction Act royalty rate of 12.5%, reversing punitive increases.
    • Faster NEPA Timelines: Introduces optional expedited environmental review process under NEPA, allowing project sponsors to pay fees for faster timelines (one year for Environmental Impact Statements, six months for Environmental Assessments).

    Timber Sales & Wildfire Prevention:

    • Mandatory Timber Contracts: Requires USFS to enter 40 long-term timber sale contracts between 2025-2034 to reduce wildfire risk, boost the economy, and create WY jobs.

    State & Local Revenue:

    • Fair Revenue Distribution: Directs 25% of renewable energy revenue from public lands to state where the lease operates. 
    • County Support: Allocates additional 25% to counties based on project location, ensuring local communities benefit from development.

    Bureau of Reclamation Investment:

    • $1 Billion Investment: Dedicated funding for restoration and expansion of surface water storage facilities. Wyoming has seven irrigation districts and water storage capacity.
    • Conveyance Facility Improvements: Funds construction activities that restore or increase capacity of existing facilities.

    Livestock Protection:

    • Depredation Reimbursement: Provides compensation for livestock losses due to wolves, bears, and eagles.
    • Drought/Fire Relief: Expands eligibility and payments for grazing losses on federal lands
    • Risk Management: Strengthens programs for disease preparedness, lab testing, and vaccine stockpiles.

    Market Access & Production:

    • Export Promotion: Creates permanent $285 million annual USDA program for agricultural export marketing.
    • Base Acre Expansion: Allows enrollment of up to 30 million new base acres to address Western producer inequities.
    • Production History Recognition: Includes previously ineligible lands in farm programs.

    Estate Tax Relief:

    • Increased Exemption: Raises estate tax exemption to $15 million (single)/$30 million (married), indexed for inflation.
    • Generational Help: Helps families pass ranches and farms to next generation without crushing tax burden.

    Business Investment Incentives:

    • Equipment Expensing: Restores 100% immediate expensing for new and used equipment – making it easier to invest in growth and resilience strategies for our hard-working ranchers
    • Investment Threshold: Raises immediate expensing cap to $2.5 million for equipment and property purchases.
    • Rural Economic Development: Provides powerful tools for reinvestment in operations and rural community growth.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gosar Introduces Legislation Delisting the Mexican Wolf from the Endangered Species Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Paul A Gosar DDS (AZ-04)

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-09), issued the following statement after introducing H.R. 4255, the Enhancing Safety for Animals (ESA) Act, legislation delisting the Mexican wolf from the Endangered Species Act and delinking its populations in the United States and Mexico:

    “Since being reintroduced to the wild in Arizona, Mexican wolves have preyed on cattle, livestock, and even family pets, causing significant financial losses and economic hardship on family-run ranches.

    The Mexican wolf has lingered on the Endangered Species list for nearly 40 years. During that time, there have been numerous accounts of livestock killings and even declines in some big game herds since these wolves were first listed. Much of this can be attributed to failed management by the United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) as the uncontrolled and unmanaged wolf populations have been allowed to roam free. In fact, nearly 90% of the wolf’s original habitat falls within the border of Mexico.  Significant attacks by wolves on cattle, elk, moose, and sheep have occurred and have negatively impacted hunters and ranchers throughout Arizona.

    To make matters worse, the USFWS considers recovery within the borders of Mexico in its management goals. American ranchers are being punished for Mexico’s failure to manage its own animal populations effectively.  Immediate delinking is needed to ensure American ranchers are put first.  

    Unfortunately, lawsuits filed by extremist environmental groups have prevented the Mexican wolf from being delisted nationally, even though the Mexican wolf was released into Arizona and New Mexico as part of an experimental program. 

    The Mexican wolf population has grown steadily since being reintroduced to the wild.  In the U.S., the Mexican wolf population now exceeds the original federal recovery goals for wolves in the wild, with hundreds more in captivity for breeding.  Now a stable population, the wolf is no longer in danger of extinction and should be delisted from the Endangered Species Act,” stated Congressman Gosar.

    “The Mexican wolf is destroying the livelihood of western ranchers by slaughtering their cattle. Because of its status as an endangered species–a falsehood perpetuated by the Biden Administration and environmental groups–ranchers cannot protect their herds from these predators,” added Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05). “I’m thankful that Rep. Gosar is leading the effort to allow Arizona ranchers to protect their cattle without fear of repercussions from the federal government. Cattle are a vital part of Arizona’s economy, and Congress must ensure that ranchers are able to protect their herds from dangerous predators.”

    “Now is the time to recognize the catastrophic impact that bad federal policy has on local communities.  For too long, ranchers in states near our southern border have shouldered the burden of managing this species with limited tools and little support from the federal government who has imposed all manners of burdens. Ranchers and rural communities face daily challenges such as livestock predation and threats to community safety due to overpopulated wolf packs. We commend Congressman Gosar for introducing the Enhancing Safety for Animals Act and working to bring some relief to these communities,” said Kaitlynn Glover, Executive Director, Public Lands Council. 

    The 10(J) experimental population listing of the Mexican wolf is one of the clearest examples in the country of ESA abuse by the environmental community and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The federal protections have been misused by activists to control landscapes and land managers, and their rhetoric often contradicts established science. The rapid increase in wolf populations, coupled with these federal protections, has restricted management options for producers, leading to an increase in cattle losses that negatively impact their profitability. I would like to thank Congressman Gosar for introducing the Enhancing Safety for Animals Act that acknowledges the abuse of the ESA with the Mexican wolf listing and seeks to provide relief to U.S. cattle producers,” stated National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, Ethan Lane.

    “We applaud Representative Gosar for his leadership on efforts to delist the Mexican wolf,” said John Boelts, President of the Arizona Farm Bureau. “For years, our members have dealt with the devastating effects of the reintroduction of this apex predator. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently reported that the Mexican wolf population in the U.S. has surpassed 280. It’s time to delist the species and provide relief to Arizona’s ranchers and rural communities who have dealt with years of negative impacts and complex regulations. State governments should now be given the opportunity to manage the wolf population directly.”

    Original Cosponsors: 

    Representatives Biggs (AZ), Boebert, Crane, Hageman, Hamadeh, Hurd, LaMalfa, Stauber, Tiffany, Zinke

    Outside Group Supporters:

    American Farm Bureau Federation, American Lands Council, Arizona Farm Bureau, Arizona Cattle Growers’ Association, Blue River Cowbelles, Catron County Commission, Coalition of Arizona/New Mexico Counties, Cochise-Graham Cattle Growers’ Association, Eastern Arizona Counties Organization, Graham County Chamber of Commerce, Greenlee County Board of Supervisors, Greenlee County Cattle Growers’ Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau, New Mexico Federal Lands Council, Protect Agriculture Now, Public Lands Council, R-CALF USA, Southeaster Arizona Sportsmen Club

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: LUMI robots ScaleUp solar deployment with advanced automation

    Source: Ministers for the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science

    Overview

    • Category

      News

    • Date

      02 July 2025

    • Classification

      Solar energy

    Robotics pioneer Luminous has been selected to receive $4.9 million in funding as the first recipient of ARENA’s $100 million Solar ScaleUp Challenge, which sought to supercharge innovation and crowdsource ideas from around the world on how to reduce the cost of large-scale solar. 

    Luminous’ project will introduce and demonstrate their LUMI robot, an AI-powered pick and place technology designed to streamline utility scale solar construction. LUMI addresses one of the industry’s most labour-intensive tasks: panel installation. LUMI autonomously places solar modules onto racking structures, allowing onsite workers to complete the final securing process, reducing manual labour and improving installation speed, safety and cost-efficiency. 

    ARENA CEO Darren Miller said that reducing operation and maintenance costs in deployment of large-scale solar is a critical lever in achieving ARENA’s ultra low-cost solar vision. 

    “ARENA has set an ambitious goal to reduce the installed cost of solar to 30 cents per watt and bring the levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) below $20 per megawatt hour. These are important targets, because at this cost solar will form the foundation for Australia’s renewable energy “superpower” future.” 

    “To achieve net zero, Australia will need immense amounts of solar power at ultra-low cost. We’ve already proven our ability to manufacture advanced technologies. It’s now time to apply that capability to solar PV, a cornerstone of the nation’s clean energy future.”  

    “Solutions like LUMI are key to reducing costs and maintaining Australia’s leading role in the development and innovation of solar technologies. The Solar ScaleUp Challenge brought together local and global thinkers, innovators and developers to collaborate and find innovative and groundbreaking solutions to transform the solar industry. This project is a great example of that ingenuity,” Mr Miller said. 

    Luminous hopes the LUMI robot will enhance productivity and safety on Australian solar farms by helping the existing workforce to install solar panels up to 3.5 times faster, without any need for heavy lifting. While LUMI has already demonstrated cost reductions on solar farms in the US, the ARENA project marks the first global deployment of a full fleet of five LUMI robots, unlocking the potential to lower solar farm costs by up to 6.2%. 

    Luminous has partnered with Equans, a global engineering, procurement and construction firm, to deploy LUMI at two Australian solar farms: the 440MW Neoen Culcairn Solar Farm in New South Wales; and the 250MW Engie Goorambat East Solar Farm in Victoria. 

    Luminous CEO Jay M. Wong said they were thrilled to work with ARENA and Equans to showcase the future of solar construction in one of the world’s most advanced solar markets. 

    “With LUMI, we’re not just introducing a robot – we’re setting out to redefine the standard for how solar farms are built and help sites energise faster and safer. Deploying our LUMI fleet in Australia will allow us to capture the data, performance insights and real-world impact needed to drive global adoption – the kind of scale and transformation we founded Luminous to achieve.” 

    The project continues ARENA’s support of Australian innovation in the solar PV industry. ARENA has provided over $388 million to over 200 solar research and development projects since 2009 through funding programs inherited from the Australian Solar Institute or delivered by ARENA since 2012. 

    Although the ScaleUp Challenge has closed, ARENA’s work to accelerate the pace of innovation in renewable energy technologies continues. If you’re an investor, developer, researcher or entrepreneur with a vision for low-cost large-scale solar, now is the time to engage.  

    ARENA will continue to support big ideas and back breakthroughs that power Australia’s clean energy future. Read more about our Ultra Low-Cost Solar priorities.   

    Apply for funding through the Advancing Renewables Program or Solar Sunshot Program. 

    ARENA media contact:

    media@arena.gov.au

    Download this media release (PDF 151KB)

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Scott Applauds Passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released the following statement upon passage of the Senate reconciliation legislation, otherwise known as President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill. This vital and comprehensive reconciliation legislation will produce lasting positive change for the American people through governmental fiscal responsibility, tax cuts, immigration enforcement, and investment in essential sectors of the country’s economy.

    “Results delivered! We’re one step closer to history because Senate Republicans got the job done,” said Senator Scott. “When President Donald J. Trump signs this bill into law, it will be a major success for hardworking American families. We’re delivering tax cuts for families, securing the border, strengthening our national defense, and unleashing American energy dominance. This is a win for Americans chasing opportunity, building prosperity, and fighting for their shot at the American Dream.”

    Senator Scott successfully championed several important provisions in this legislation that will provide economic relief, support small businesses, promote tax fairness, and strengthen various industries. These legislative victories underscore Senator Scott’s unwavering dedication to advancing the interests of the people of South Carolina and the United States.

    Below is a list of key provisions championed by Senator Scott: 

    • The Opportunity Zone Program is now permanent and greatly expanded, paving the way for economic investment and growth in economically distressed areas and maximizing community impact.
    • A permanent school choice tax credit that will benefit millions of middle and low-income children for generations.
    • Coaches and athletic staff can now claim out-of-pocket job-related expenses on their taxes just like classroom teachers.
    • Existing FICA Tax credits have been expanded to cover additional businesses, providing meaningful tax relief for small beauty and grooming establishments.
    • New Market Tax Credit has been permanently extended to attract private capital for projects in underserved urban and rural areas. 
    • The permanent extension of the Excess Business Loss Limitation Section 461(I) to safeguard the tax base and prevent aggressive tax sheltering.
    • The removal of retaliatory tax Section 899 to secure local employment and investment from foreign-owned U.S. businesses.
    • Removal of restrictions allowing employers and employees to contribute towards the fees of direct primary care programs. 

    South Carolina specific provisions can be found below:

    • Extension of critical support for South Carolina Farmers; providing stronger price protections, disaster aid, and new insurance tools. 
    • Extension of the 45X production credit to support the growing EV and lithium sector in the state.
    • Preservation of the tax credits vital for the state’s nuclear industry and eligibility for advanced nuclear technologies, promoting clean energy and economic growth. 
    • Protection of the duty drawback program, supporting small and medium-sized tobacco farmers. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act Passes through House Natural Resources Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) successfully passed H.R. 131, the “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act, through the House Natural Resources Committee this morning. The bill eliminates interest payments on construction costs endured by non-federal entities and extends the repayment period to 75 years, allowing local communities more flexibility to finish their investments in this critical project. Congressman Jeff Hurd (CO-03) is a cosponsor of the bill, while Colorado Senator Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

    Upon completion, the Arkansas Valley Conduit would provide access to clean water to 50,000 residents in Southeast Colorado, including Bent, Prowers, Kiowa and Baca Counties. The project was originally started back in 1962 and has been delayed by bureaucracy and, most recently, rising construction and labor costs. The “Finish the AVC” Act addresses these issues in an effort to make this long-standing vision a finished product.

    “I’m very pleased to see my Finish the AVC Act get through Committee and continue to advance through Congress as a responsible solution for Southeast Coloradans,” said Congresswoman Boebert. “I’ve emphasized the need for every resident in the 4th District to have reliable access to clean water, whether it’s in Morgan County or down in our Southeast region. The Arkansas Valley Conduit has been pushed to the side for too long and it’s time we got this project done. I look forward to getting the Finish the AVC Act through the House and eventually to President Trump’s desk for signing.”

    “Rural water providers in our area often struggle to secure the funding needed to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Completing the Arkansas Valley Conduit (AVC), which has been stalled for decades as labor and construction costs continue to rise, would help reduce the financial burden on these providers and enhance their ability to deliver a higher quality and a more reliable water supply,” said Prowers County Commissioners Ty Harmon, Roger Cook, and Roger Stagner. “In addition to supporting households and businesses, a stable water supply is essential for agriculture — the backbone of our community’s economy. Reliable water access ensures that farmers and ranchers can maintain production, adapt to drought conditions, and sustain the long-term viability of their operations. We’re grateful for Congresswoman Boebert’s work on this project and her efforts to support Southeast Colorado.”

    “In the west, it is critical that we have sound water infrastructure to meet communities’ needs,”said HNR Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04).“Rep. Boebert’s legislation will help get the Arkansas Valley Conduit project across the finish line more than 50 years after it was authorized. I thank her for her work to move this important project forward and her leadership on western water issues.”

    The full text of Congresswoman Boebert’s H.R. 131 can be read HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act Passes through House Natural Resources Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) successfully passed H.R. 131, the “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act, through the House Natural Resources Committee this morning. The bill eliminates interest payments on construction costs endured by non-federal entities and extends the repayment period to 75 years, allowing local communities more flexibility to finish their investments in this critical project. Congressman Jeff Hurd (CO-03) is a cosponsor of the bill, while Colorado Senator Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

    Upon completion, the Arkansas Valley Conduit would provide access to clean water to 50,000 residents in Southeast Colorado, including Bent, Prowers, Kiowa and Baca Counties. The project was originally started back in 1962 and has been delayed by bureaucracy and, most recently, rising construction and labor costs. The “Finish the AVC” Act addresses these issues in an effort to make this long-standing vision a finished product.

    “I’m very pleased to see my Finish the AVC Act get through Committee and continue to advance through Congress as a responsible solution for Southeast Coloradans,” said Congresswoman Boebert. “I’ve emphasized the need for every resident in the 4th District to have reliable access to clean water, whether it’s in Morgan County or down in our Southeast region. The Arkansas Valley Conduit has been pushed to the side for too long and it’s time we got this project done. I look forward to getting the Finish the AVC Act through the House and eventually to President Trump’s desk for signing.”

    “Rural water providers in our area often struggle to secure the funding needed to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Completing the Arkansas Valley Conduit (AVC), which has been stalled for decades as labor and construction costs continue to rise, would help reduce the financial burden on these providers and enhance their ability to deliver a higher quality and a more reliable water supply,” said Prowers County Commissioners Ty Harmon, Roger Cook, and Roger Stagner. “In addition to supporting households and businesses, a stable water supply is essential for agriculture — the backbone of our community’s economy. Reliable water access ensures that farmers and ranchers can maintain production, adapt to drought conditions, and sustain the long-term viability of their operations. We’re grateful for Congresswoman Boebert’s work on this project and her efforts to support Southeast Colorado.”

    “In the west, it is critical that we have sound water infrastructure to meet communities’ needs,”said HNR Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04).“Rep. Boebert’s legislation will help get the Arkansas Valley Conduit project across the finish line more than 50 years after it was authorized. I thank her for her work to move this important project forward and her leadership on western water issues.”

    The full text of Congresswoman Boebert’s H.R. 131 can be read HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act Passes through House Natural Resources Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) successfully passed H.R. 131, the “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act, through the House Natural Resources Committee this morning. The bill eliminates interest payments on construction costs endured by non-federal entities and extends the repayment period to 75 years, allowing local communities more flexibility to finish their investments in this critical project. Congressman Jeff Hurd (CO-03) is a cosponsor of the bill, while Colorado Senator Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

    Upon completion, the Arkansas Valley Conduit would provide access to clean water to 50,000 residents in Southeast Colorado, including Bent, Prowers, Kiowa and Baca Counties. The project was originally started back in 1962 and has been delayed by bureaucracy and, most recently, rising construction and labor costs. The “Finish the AVC” Act addresses these issues in an effort to make this long-standing vision a finished product.

    “I’m very pleased to see my Finish the AVC Act get through Committee and continue to advance through Congress as a responsible solution for Southeast Coloradans,” said Congresswoman Boebert. “I’ve emphasized the need for every resident in the 4th District to have reliable access to clean water, whether it’s in Morgan County or down in our Southeast region. The Arkansas Valley Conduit has been pushed to the side for too long and it’s time we got this project done. I look forward to getting the Finish the AVC Act through the House and eventually to President Trump’s desk for signing.”

    “Rural water providers in our area often struggle to secure the funding needed to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Completing the Arkansas Valley Conduit (AVC), which has been stalled for decades as labor and construction costs continue to rise, would help reduce the financial burden on these providers and enhance their ability to deliver a higher quality and a more reliable water supply,” said Prowers County Commissioners Ty Harmon, Roger Cook, and Roger Stagner. “In addition to supporting households and businesses, a stable water supply is essential for agriculture — the backbone of our community’s economy. Reliable water access ensures that farmers and ranchers can maintain production, adapt to drought conditions, and sustain the long-term viability of their operations. We’re grateful for Congresswoman Boebert’s work on this project and her efforts to support Southeast Colorado.”

    “In the west, it is critical that we have sound water infrastructure to meet communities’ needs,”said HNR Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04).“Rep. Boebert’s legislation will help get the Arkansas Valley Conduit project across the finish line more than 50 years after it was authorized. I thank her for her work to move this important project forward and her leadership on western water issues.”

    The full text of Congresswoman Boebert’s H.R. 131 can be read HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –