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Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 30 March 2025 Departmental update Membership of the Guideline Development Group for the treatment of maternal peripartum infection

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Maternal sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by an infection during pregnancy, childbirth, post-abortion, or the postpartum period. It is the third leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide and a significant contributor to overall sepsis-related deaths. In addition to posing severe risks to the mother, maternal infections and sepsis can lead to neonatal infections and other adverse neonatal outcomes.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has previously published the WHO recommendations for prevention and treatment of maternal peripartum infections. The primary objective of WHO’s recommendations is to provide a foundation for the strategic policy and programme development needed for sustainable implementation of effective interventions for improving provision and uptake of quality antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal care for all women and newborns.

    Efforts to reduce maternal and neonatal sepsis are critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and implementing global health initiatives. With a view towards promoting the best-known clinical practices in labour and childbirth, and improving maternal and newborn outcomes worldwide, including for the prevention of peripartum infections, WHO will review the evidence for a recommendation related to Antibiotic prophylaxis during labour for vaginal birth. The development of this new recommendation has been prioritized.  

    A Guideline Development Group (GDG) meeting will be held on 9–10 April 2025 to review the evidence base on this recommendation. In keeping with the requirements of the WHO Guidelines Review Committee and the WHO Compliance, Risk Management and Ethics Office, we are posting online short biographies of the GDG members. The listed candidates have also submitted a Declaration of Interest form stating any conflict of interests. WHO has applied its internal processes to ensure that the performance of the above tasks by members of this group will be transparent and without any significant conflict of interests (academic, financial, or other) that could affect the credibility of the guideline. 

    Nevertheless, WHO invites the general public to review the experts and stakeholders involved and provide feedback regarding any member deemed to have a significant conflict of interest with respect to the terms of reference for this group. Comments and feedback should be cordial and constructive, and sent to srhmph@who.int.

    This WHO normative meeting is by invitation only.

    NOTE:

    The GDG members are participating in the meeting on their invidual capacity. Affiliations are presented only as a reference. The participation of experts in a WHO meeting does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by WHO nor does it create a binding relationship between the experts and WHO. The biographies have been provided by the experts themselves and are the sole responsibility of the inpiduals concerned. WHO is not responsible for the accuracy, veracity and completeness of the information provided. In accordance with WHO conflict of interest assessment policy, expert’s biographies are published for transparency purposes. Comments and perceptions are brought to the knowledge of WHO through the public notice and comment process. 

    Comments sent to WHO are treated confidentially and their receipt will be acknowledged through a generic email notification to the sender. Please send any comments to the following email: srhmph@who.int. WHO reserves the right to discuss information received through this process with the relevant expert with no attribution to the provider of such information. Upon review and assessment of the information received through this process, WHO, in its sole discretion, may take appropriate management of conflicts of interests in accordance with its policies.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKSAR search and rescue team leaves for Myanmar (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government sent a 51-strong search and rescue team to the earthquake-stricken areas in Myanmar this afternoon (March 29) to assist in the search and rescue work.

    The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee; the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau; the Director of Immigration, Mr Benson Kwok; and the Director of Fire Services, Mr Andy Yeung, saw the search and rescue team off at Hong Kong International Airport. The Chief Executive of the Hospital Authority (HA), Dr Tony Ko, also attended and showed support to the team.

    The team, led by Deputy Chief Fire Officer of the Fire Services Department (FSD), Mr Cheu Yu-kok, comprises 40 members of the FSD which include firemen, ambulancemen and fire services workshops personnel, as well as officers from the Security Bureau, the Immigration Department and the HA.

    Bringing along two search and rescue dogs, the team is also taking approximately nine tonnes of equipment which includes life detectors and masonry cutting machines, an automatic satellite tracking antenna system which provides network connection, as well as the team members’ daily necessities.

    Upon arrival at Myanmar, the team will join local rescue teams to start search and rescue work.

                     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM visits Smruti Mandir in Nagpur

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 11:48AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today visited Smruti Mandir in Nagpur. During the visit, he paid homage to Dr. K B Hedgewar and Shri M S Golwalkar. 

    In a post on X, he wrote:

    “Visiting Smruti Mandir in Nagpur is a very special experience. 

    Making today’s visit even more special is the fact that it has happened on Varsha Pratipada, which is also the Jayanti of Param Pujya Doctor Sahab. 

    Countless people like me derive inspiration and strength from the thoughts of Param Pujya Doctor Sahab and Pujya Guruji. It was an honour to pay homage to these two greats, who envisioned a strong, prosperous and culturally proud Bharat.”

     

    Visiting Smruti Mandir in Nagpur is a very special experience.

    Making today’s visit even more special is the fact that it has happened on Varsha Pratipada, which is also the Jayanti of Param Pujya Doctor Sahab.

    Countless people like me derive inspiration and strength from the… pic.twitter.com/6LzgECjwvI

    — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 30, 2025

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2116719) Visitor Counter : 201

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address in the 120th Episode of ‘Mann ki Baat’ on 30.03.2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 11:41AM by PIB Delhi

    My dear countrymen, Namaskar. Today, on a very auspicious day, I have got the opportunity to talk to you through ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Today is the Pratipada Tithi of the Shukla Paksha of the Chaitra month. Chaitra Navratri is beginning from today. The Indian New Year is also commencing from this day. This is also the start of Vikram Samvat 2082. At the moment, I have many of your letters in front of me. Some are from Bihar, some from Bengal, some from Tamil Nadu & some from Gujarat. In these, people have expressed their inner most thoughts in a very interesting way. Many letters also comprise good wishes and congratulatory messages. But today I feel like sharing some messages with you –

    Prime Minister (Sarvarigu Yugadi Habbadaa Shubhaashegadu) – Happy Ugadi festival to all

     

    The next message is –

    Prime Minister (Andariki Ugadi Shubhaakaankshalu) – Happy Ugadi festival to all

    Now in another letter it is written –

    Prime Minister (Saunsaar Paadvyaachi Parbi) – Greetings on Saunsaar Padwa

    Inscribed in the next message is –

    Prime Minister (Gudipaadwya Nimitta Haardik Shubhechhaa) – Heartiest greetings on the occasion of Gudi Padwa

    One of our friends has written –

    Prime Minister (Illaavarakkum Vishu Aashamshagal) – Happy Vishu festival to all

    Another message is –

    Prime Minister (Inniy Puttaand Nalla Vaazhathukkal) – Happy New Year to all

    Friends, you must have understood that the messages have been sent in different languages. But do you know the reason behind this? This exactly is the special thing that I want to share with you today. New Year is starting today and during the next few days in different states of our country. And all these messages are of greetings for New Year and various festivals. That is why people have sent me greetings in different languages.

    Friends, today the festival of Ugadi is being celebrated with great fervour in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana. Today itself, Gudi Padwa is being celebrated in Maharashtra. In our country full of diversity, during the next few days, in different states, ‘Rongali Bihu’ will be celebrated in Assam, ‘Poila Boishakh’ in Bengal, ‘Navreh’ in Kashmir. Similarly, between 13th and 15th April, there will be joyous celebration of festivals in different parts of the country. There is an atmosphere of excitement about this too and the festival of Eid is also there. That means this whole month is of festivals; of festivities. I extend my greetings to the people of the country on these festivals. These festivals of ours may be in different regions, but they show how unity is woven into the diversity of India. We have to keep reinforcing this spirit of unity, on our way ahead.

    Friends, at the advent of exams, I have a discussion, ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’, with young friends. Now the exams are over. In many schools, preparations are on to resume the classes. After this, summer vacations are also round the corner. Children eagerly await this time of the year. I am reminded of my childhood days when my friends and I used to play one prank or the other all day long. But simultaneously, we used to do something constructive and learn too. Summer days are long and children have a lot to do during the time. This is the time to inculcate a new hobby as well as hone your skills. Today, there is no dearth of platforms for children where they can learn a lot.

    For example, if an organization is running a technology camp, children can learn about open-source software along with developing apps. Be it environment, be it theatre or be it leadership, courses on various subjects are being conducted… they can join them as well. There are many schools that teach speech or drama, which are very useful for children. Apart from all this, you also have the opportunity to join volunteer activities and service endeavours going on at many places during these holidays. I specially urge you regarding such programs… If any organisation, school or social institution or science centre is organising such summer activities, do share it with #MyHolidays. This will help children and their parents from across the country to get information about these easily.

    My young friends, today I would also like to discuss with you the special calendar of MY-Bharat, which has been prepared for this summer vacation. At the moment, copy of this calendar is kept in front of me. I want to share some unique efforts through this calendar. For example, in the study tour of MY-Bharat, you can know how our ‘Jan Aushadhi Kendras’ function. You can undergo a unique experience in the border villages by becoming a part of the vibrant village campaign. Along with this, you can definitely become a part of the cultural and sports activities there. At the same time, by participating in the padyatra on Ambedkar Jayanti, you can also spread awareness about the values ​​of the Constitution.

    I specially urge children and their parents as well to share their holiday experiences with #HolidayMemories. I will try to include your experiences in the upcoming ‘Mann Ki Baat’.

    My dear countrymen, as soon as the summer season approaches, preparations for saving water begin in many cities and villages. In many states, works related to water harvesting and water conservation have gained new momentum. The Ministry of Jal Shakti and numerous NGOs are working in that direction. Thousands of artificial ponds, check dams, borewell recharge and community soak pits are being constructed in the country. Like every year, this time too, preparations have been made on a war footing for the ‘catch the rain’ campaign. This campaign too, is not of the government… but of the society, of the Janata-Janaardan; the people. Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan is also being run to connect more and more people with water conservation. The endeavour is to safely pass on the natural resources that we have, to the next generation.

    Friends, by conserving raindrops, we can save a lot of water from getting wasted. Over the last few years, under this campaign, unprecedented tasks related to water conservation have been undertaken in many parts of the country. I will give you an interesting figure. During the last 7-8 years, over 11 billion cubic metres of water has been conserved through newly built tanks, ponds and other water recharge structures. You must now be wondering how much 11 billion cubic metres of water is?

    Friends, you must have seen the pictures of the water that gets accumulated in the Bhakra Nangal dam. This water forms the Govind Sagar lake. The length of this lake is more than 90 kilometres. Even in this lake, not more than 9-10 billion cubic metres of water can be conserved. Only 9-10 billion cubic metres! And the countrymen, through their tiny efforts, have managed to conserve 11 billion cubic meters of water in different parts of the country – isn’t that a great effort!

    Friends, in this direction, the people of Gadag district of Karnataka have also set an example. A few years ago, the lakes of two villages dried up completely. There came a time when there was no water left even for the animals to drink. Gradually, the lake got covered with weeds and bushes. But some villagers decided to revive the lake and started working on it. And as they say, ‘where there is a will there is a way’. Noticing the efforts of the villagers, the social organizations in the vicinity also joined them. All of them, together cleaned the garbage and mud and after some time the lake area became completely clean. Now people are waiting for the rainy season. Indeed, this is a great example of the ‘catch the rain’ campaign. Friends, you can also join such efforts at the community level. You must make a plan from now on to take this mass movement forward, and you have to remember one more thing. If possible, keep cold water in an earthen pot in front of your house during summers. Keep water for birds on the roof of the house or even in the verandah. See how blessed you will feel after doing this punya karma (pious deed).

    Friends, in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ we will now talk about adding wings to your zeal… About displaying passion despite challenges. In the Khelo India Para Games that concluded a few days ago, the players surprised everyone with their dedication and talent, once again. This time more players participated in these games than earlier. This shows how popular Para Sports is becoming. I congratulate all the players participating in the Khelo India Para Games for their sterling efforts. My best wishes for the players of Haryana, Tamil Nadu and UP for securing the first, second and third positions, respectively. During these games, our divyang players also set 18 national records. Out of which 12 were in the name of our women players. Arm wrestler Joby Mathew who won a Gold Medal in this year’s Khelo India Para Games has written a letter to me. I would like to read out an excerpt of his letter. He has written-

    “Winning a medal is very special, but our struggle is not limited to just standing on the podium. We fight a battle every day. Life tests us in many ways… very few people understand our struggle. Despite this, we move forward with courage. We work towards fulfilling our dreams. We believe that we are no less than anyone else.”

    Great! Joby Mathew, you have written an amazing, wonderful letter. I thank you for this letter. I want to tell Joby Mathew and all our Divyang friends that your efforts are a great inspiration for us.

    Friends, another grand event in Delhi has inspired people a lot; filled them with enthusiasm. Fit India Carnival was organized for the first time as an innovative idea. About 25 thousand people from different fields participated in it. All of them had the same goal – to stay fit and spread awareness about fitness. People involved in this event got information related to their health as well as nutrition. I urge you to organize such carnivals in your area as well. MY-Bharat can be of great help to you in this initiative.

    Friends, our indigenous games are now becoming a part of popular culture. You all must be knowing the famous rapper Hanumankind. His new song “Run It Up” is becoming quite famous these days. Our traditional Martial Arts like Kalaripayattu, Gatka and Thang-Ta have been included in it. I congratulate Hanumankind that due to his efforts people of the world are getting to know about our traditional Martial Arts.

    My dear countrymen, every month I get a lot of messages from you on MyGov and NaMo App. Many messages touch my heart, while others fill me with pride. Many a time, these messages provide unique information about our culture and traditions. This time, I want to share with you the message that caught my attention.

    Atharva Kapoor from Varanasi, Aaryash Leekha and Atrey Maan from Mumbai have written about their feelings on my recent visit to Mauritius. They have written that they greatly enjoyed the performance of “Geet Gawai” during this visit. I have felt similar sentiments in many letters received from eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. What I felt during the wonderful performance of Geet Gawai in Mauritius was truly amazing.

    Friends, when we stay connected to our roots, no matter how big the storm, it cannot uproot us. Just imagine, about 200 years ago, many people from India went to Mauritius as indentured labourers. Nobody knew what would happen next. But with the passage of time, they settled there. They carved a niche identity for themselves in Mauritius. They preserved their heritage and remained connected to their roots. Mauritius is not the only such example. Last year when I went to Guyana, the Chowtaal performance there impressed me a lot.

    Friends, let me now play an audio for you.

    #(Clip)#

    You must be wondering that this must be about some part of our country. But you will be surprised to know that it is related to Fiji. This is the very popular ‘Phagwa Chowtaal’ of Fiji. This song and music fills everyone with fervour. Let me play another audio for you.

    #(Clip)#

    This audio is the ‘Chowtaal’ of Suriname. The countrymen watching this program on TV can see the President of Suriname and my friend Chan Santokhi Ji enjoying it. This tradition of coming together & singing is also very popular in Trinidad and Tobago. In all these countries, people read Ramayan a lot. Phagwa is very popular here and all Indian festivals are celebrated with full enthusiasm. Many of their songs are in Bhojpuri, Awadhi or mixed language; at times Braj and Maithili are also used. All those who preserve our traditions in these countries deserve appreciation.

    Friends, there are many such organizations in the world, which have been working to conserve Indian culture for years. One such organization is – ‘Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society’. This organization, engaged in preserving Indian dance, music and culture, has completed its glorious 75 years. In the program related to this occasion, the President of Singapore, Shriman Tharman Shanmugaratnam Ji was the Guest of Honour. He praised the efforts of this organization. I extend my best wishes to this team.

    Friends, in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, along with the achievements of the countrymen, we often raise social issues as well. Many a time, challenges are also discussed. This time in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I want to talk about a challenge that is directly related to all of us. This challenge is of ‘textile waste’. You must be wondering, what is this new problem of textile waste?

    Actually, textile waste has become a major cause of worry for the whole world. Nowadays, the trend of getting rid of old clothes as soon as possible and buying new ones is increasing all over the world. Have you ever thought what happens to the old clothes that you stop wearing? This becomes textile waste. A lot of global research is being done on this subject. It has come to light in a research that only less than one percent of textile waste is recycled into new clothes… less than even one percent. India is the third country in the world where the maximum textile waste is generated. This means that we also face a huge challenge. But I am happy that many commendable efforts are being undertaken in our country to deal with this challenge. Many Indian start-ups have started working on textile recovery facilities.

    There are many such teams that are also working for the empowerment of our ragpicker brothers and sisters. Many young friends are involved in the efforts towards sustainable fashion. They recycle old clothes and footwear and distribute them to the needy. Many items like decorative pieces, handbags, stationery and toys are being made from textile waste. Many organizations are engaged in popularizing the ‘circular fashion brands’ these days. New rental platforms are also coming up, where designer clothes are available on rent. Some organizations collect old clothes, make them reusable and distribute them to the poor.

    Friends, some cities are also carving a new identity for themselves in dealing with textile waste. Panipat in Haryana is emerging as a global hub for textile recycling. Bengaluru is also creating a distinct identity for itself with innovative tech solutions. More than half of the textile waste is collected here, which is an example for our other cities as well. Similarly, Tirupur in Tamil Nadu is engaged in textile waste management through wastewater treatment and renewable energy.

    My dear countrymen, today along with fitness, count is also playing a big role. Count of the number of steps taken in a day, count of the number of calories eaten in a day, count of the number of calories burnt… amidst all these counts, another countdown is about to begin. The countdown to the International Yoga Day. Now less than 100 days are left for Yoga Day. If you have not yet included yoga in your life, do it now… it is not too late yet. The first International Yoga Day was celebrated 10 years ago on the 21st of June, 2015. Now this day has taken the shape of a grand festival of yoga. This is such a priceless gift from India to humanity, which is going to be very useful for future generation. The theme of Yoga Day 2025 has been kept as ‘Yoga for One Earth One Health’. That is, we wish to make the whole world healthy through yoga.

    Friends, it is a matter of pride for all of us that today the curiosity about our yoga and traditional medicine is rising, all over the world. A large number of youths are adopting yoga and Ayurveda as an excellent medium for wellness.

    For example, there is a South American country, Chile. Ayurveda is rapidly becoming popular there. Last year, during my visit to Brazil, I met the President of Chile. We had a lot of discussions about the popularity of Ayurveda. I have come to know about a team named ‘Somos India’. In Spanish, it means – ‘We are India’. This team has been promoting yoga and Ayurveda for almost a decade. Their focus is on treatment as well as educational programmes. They are also getting information related to Yog and Ayurveda translated into the Spanish language. If we talk about last year alone, about 9 thousand people participated in their myriad events and courses. I congratulate all the people associated with this team for their efforts.

    My dear countrymen, now an interesting yet strange question in ‘Mann Ki Baat’! Have you ever wondered about the journey of flowers? Some flowers that bloom on trees and plants travel to temples. Some flowers beautify the house, some dissolve in perfume and spread fragrance everywhere. But today I will tell you about another journey of flowers. You certainly must have heard about Mahua flowers. People of our villages and especially the tribal community know very well about its importance. The journey of Mahua flowers in many parts of the country has now embarked upon a new path. Cookies are being made from Mahua flowers in Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh. These cookies are becoming very popular due to the efforts of four sisters of Rajakhoh village.

    Observing the passion of these women, a big company trained them to work in a factory. Inspired by them, many women of the village have joined them. The demand for Mahua cookies made by them is increasing rapidly. In the Adilabad district of Telangana also, two sisters have carried out a new experiment with Mahua flowers. They make various types of dishes with them, which people like very much. There is also the sweetness of tribal culture in their dishes.

    Friends, I want to tell you about another wonderful flower and its name is ‘Krishna Kamal’. Have you visited the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat? You will see these Krishna Kamal in large numbers around the Statue of Unity. These flowers captivate the tourists. These Krishna Kamal have become the centre of attraction in Arogya Van, Ekta Nursery, Vishwa Van and Miyawaki forest of Ekta Nagar. Lakhs of Krishna Kamal plants have been planted here in a planned manner. If you look around you, you will notice interesting journeys of flowers. Do write to me about such unique journeys of flowers in your area.

    My dear friends, keep sharing your thoughts, experiences and information with me as always. It is possible that something may be happening around you which may seem normal, but for others that topic might be very interesting and new. We will meet again next month and discuss those things of countrymen which fill us with inspiration. Thank you very much to all of you, Namaskar.

    **********

    MJPS/ST/RT

    (Release ID: 2116715) Visitor Counter : 307

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ – Theme for IDY2025: PM in ‘Mann Ki Baat’

    Source: Government of India

    ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ – Theme for IDY2025: PM in ‘Mann Ki Baat’

    It is a matter of pride for all of us that today the curiosity about our yoga and traditional medicine is rising, all over the world: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

    Prime Minister appeals to everyone to include Yoga into their routine and take pride in the country’s traditional wisdom for overall well being

    Posted On: 30 MAR 2025 7:04PM by PIB Delhi

    In his latest Mann Ki Baat address, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of fitness in daily life and praised initiatives like the Fit India Carnival and International Yoga Day. While sharing India’s vision for a healthier world population, the PM mentioned, “The theme of Yoga Day 2025 has been kept as ‘Yoga for One Earth One Health’. That is, we wish to make the whole world healthy through yoga.”

    Notably, the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), a premier institute under the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, has been entrusted with the responsibility of organising activities to mark the International Day of Yoga (IDY) this year on a grand scale. The institute recently unveiled the 100-day countdown to IDY2025 during the Yogamahotsav event held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on 13 March, 2025.

    During the 120th episode of the popular radio program, the Prime Minister said, “Today along with fitness, the count also plays a big role. Count the number of steps taken in a day, count the number of calories eaten in a day, count the number of calories burnt… amidst all these counts, another countdown is about to begin. The countdown to the International Yoga Day. Now less than 100 days are left for Yoga Day. If you have not yet included yoga in your life, do it now… it is not too late yet. The first International Yoga Day was celebrated 10 years ago on the 21st of June, 2015. Now this day has taken the shape of a grand festival of yoga. This is such a priceless gift from India to humanity, which is going to be very useful for future generations.”

    As the world gears up for International Yoga Day (IDY) 2025, the theme “Yoga for One Earth One Health” takes center stage and a wide range of activities revolving around it is being held. The 2025 theme highlights yoga’s role in promoting physical, mental, and environmental well-being, aligning with global calls for sustainability and unity. It builds on a decade of success since the United Nations recognized June 21 as International Day of Yoga, following India’s proposal in 2014.

    During the Mann Ki Baat programme, the Prime Minister also stated, “It is a matter of pride for all of us that today the curiosity about our yoga and traditional medicine is rising, all over the world. A large number of youths are adopting yoga and Ayurveda as an excellent medium for wellness. For example, there is a South American country, Chile. Ayurveda is rapidly becoming popular there. Last year, during my visit to Brazil, I met the President of Chile. We had a lot of discussions about the popularity of Ayurveda.

    While acknowledging the fast growing popularity of Ayush systems across the globe and the contribution of key stakeholders in this, the PM said, “I have come to know about a team named ‘Somos India’. In Spanish, it means – ‘We are India’. This team has been promoting yoga and Ayurveda for almost a decade. Their focus is on treatment as well as educational programs. They are also getting information related to yoga and Ayurveda translated into the Spanish language. If we talk about last year alone, about 9 thousand people participated in their myriad events and courses. I congratulate all the people associated with this team for their efforts.”

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi also appealed to everyone to include Yoga into their routine and take pride in the country’s traditional wisdom for overall well being.

    10 unique signature events to guide events to International Day of Yoga 2025

    This year IDY activities will revolve around 10 unique signature events to mark the 11th edition of the global event, which makes it the most expansive and inclusive:

    • ● Yoga Sangama – A synchronised Yoga demonstration at 10,000 locations, aiming for a world record.
    • ● Yoga Bandhan – Global partnerships with 10 countries to host Yoga sessions at iconic landmarks.
    • ● Yoga Parks– Development of 1,000 Yoga Parks for long-term community engagement.
    • ● Yoga Samavesh – Special Yoga programs for Divyangjan, senior citizens, children, and marginalised groups.
    • ● Yoga Prabhava – A decadal impact assessment on Yoga’s role in public health.
    • ● Yoga Connect – A Virtual Global Yoga Summit featuring renowned Yoga experts and healthcare professionals.
    • ● Harit Yoga – A sustainability-driven initiative combining Yoga with tree planting and clean-up drives.
    • ● Yoga Unplugged– An event to attract young people to Yoga
    • ● Yoga Maha Kumbh – A week-long festival across 10 locations, culminating in a central celebration led by the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
    • ● Samyogam – A 100-day initiative integrating Yoga with modern healthcare for holistic wellness.

    Annexure

    The International Day of Yoga (IDY) has become a global wellness movement, uniting millions across countries. Here’s a brief look at its key milestones:

    • ● IDY 2015 – New Delhi: The first IDY at Rajpath saw 35,985 participants, setting two Guinness World Records.
    • ● IDY 2016 – Chandigarh: 30,000+ participants gathered at Capitol Complex, including 150 Divyangjan performing Yoga Protocol for the first time. The Prime Minister emphasised Yoga’s role in treating ailments like diabetes.
    • ● IDY 2017 – Lucknow: 51,000 participants joined at Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan, with Yoga highlighted as affordable ‘health insurance’.
    • ● IDY 2018 – Dehradun: 50,000+ participants at Forest Research Institute, with the theme “Yoga for Public Health”. ISRO launched BHUVAN-YOGA and Yoga Locator apps.
    • ● IDY 2019 – Ranchi: Focused on ‘Yoga for Heart Care’, with eco-friendly Yoga accessories benefiting Khadi artisans.
    • ● IDY 2020 – Virtual: Amid the pandemic, 12.06 crore people joined online. The “My Life, My Yoga” contest attracted entries from 130 countries.
    • ● IDY 2021 – Virtual: Themed “Yoga for Wellness”, reaching 496.1 million people globally. Iconic celebrations occurred at Times Square, the Eiffel Tower, and Tokyo Skytree.
    • ● IDY 2022 – Mysuru: 15,000 participants at Mysore Palace, with a ‘Guardian Ring’ global Yoga relay and VR-powered digital exhibition.
    • ● IDY 2023 – Jabalpur & UN HQ, New York: With 23.44 crore participants, this IDY set two Guinness World Records, including the most significant Yoga session (1.53 lakh participants in Surat). The ‘Ocean Ring of Yoga’ covered 35,000 km.
    • ● IDY 2024 – Srinagar: Held at SKICC, Srinagar, with 7,000 participants braving the rain. The ‘Yoga for Space’ initiative saw ISRO scientists join in. A Guinness World Record was set in Uttar Pradesh, with 25.93 lakh people pledging to Yoga. 24.53 crore global participants marked this as a historic celebration.

    ****

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2116869) Visitor Counter : 116

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Going for growth: cutting health & safety red tape

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government will boost economic growth by reforming health and safety laws to lessen the cost and burden of compliance on low-risk businesses, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden says.

    “We’re delivering on the ACT-National coalition agreement to reform health and safety laws and regulations. We want all Kiwis to return home safe after every working day. 

    “I have travelled across the country meeting with businesses, employers, and workers about how the current system works for them and what they want to see in this reform that will make their work safer. What I have been hearing consistently is that small, low-risk businesses are not sure which risks to focus on and struggle to meet the costs of compliance.

    “I’ve listened and I’m acting. Cabinet has today agreed to a suite of system-wide changes, including sharpening the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, to cut through the unnecessary red tape holding these businesses back.

    “The first change will be a carve-out for small, low-risk businesses from general Health and Safety at Work Act requirements. These businesses will only have to manage critical risks and provide basic facilities to ensure worker welfare.

    “For example, a small clothing shop would still need to provide first aid, emergency plans, and basic facilities, such as suitable lighting, but wouldn’t need to have a psychosocial harm policy in place.

    “This will improve outcomes for businesses and workers by focusing the system on critical risks and getting rid of unnecessary costs, making sure there is less paperwork and more clarity on what will make workplaces safe.”

    Cabinet has also agreed to:

    Reduce tick-box health and safety activities that do not protect workers from harm by sharpening the primary purpose of the Health and Safety at Work Act to focus on critical risk,
    Address over-compliance due to overlapping health and safety duties by clarifying the boundaries between the Act and regulatory systems that already manage the same risk,
    Cut compliance costs by reducing notification requirements to the regulator to only significant workplace events (deaths, serious injury, illness and incidents),
    Help end the proliferation of road cones by providing a hotline for the public to report overzealous road cone use, and for WorkSafe to confirm and provide guidance on instances of over-compliance.

    I’ve travelled across the country to hear health and safety concerns, and at nearly every meeting, someone raised the issue of sea of road-cones. I am directing WorkSafe to confirm and provide guidance on instances of road cones overcompliance. Having WorkSafe focus on this will be a culture shift for the agency, but it signifies the broader direction this Government is taking with the health and safety system. 

    “These changes are just the start of the Government’s reform programme. I will be seeking Cabinet decisions in the coming months that will further improve WorkSafe and address sector-specific pain points.

    “Workers can be assured that their employers will prioritise the right actions to protect them from harm, and they know where their attention should be to keep themselves and their workmates safe.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Safety changes driven by ACT party ideology – CTU

    Source: Council of Trade Unions (CTU)

    Health and Safety changes driven by ACT party ideology, not evidence, said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Richard Wagstaff.

    Changes to health and safety legislation proposed by the Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Brooke van Velden today comply with ACT party ideology, ignores the evidence, and will compound New Zealand’s dismal health and safety performance.

    “It’s disappointing to see the Minister has ignored the widespread consensus on what New Zealand needs to do to improve its poor track record and instead has chosen to carve out small businesses from good health and safety practices,” Wagstaff said.

    “Exempting small businesses from best practice health and safety makes no sense when we know that small business are riskier and need more support.

    “The Government seems to think the biggest obstacle to our poor productivity and health and safety outcomes is too many road cones. It’s no wonder New Zealand can’t get ahead when our leaders in Government seem so out of touch, and have no credible responses to these challenges.

    “Given the massive challenge we have as a country to improve our health and safety performance, it’s astounding the Minister would target the use of road cones and expect WorkSafe to focus its scarce time and energy on creating a hotline.

    “The Minister has been quick to cut support for important issues like modern slavery, and sat on her hands on other important health and safety concerns, like banning engineered stone. It would seem that this Government is more concerned about road cones than either of these issues.

    “What’s worse is that these changes are being justified on the basis of cutting red tape for economic growth. Good business know that proper health and safety is not a compliance cost.

    “On average there is a workplace fatality every week, another 20 are killed from occupational disease, and thousands more are incapacitated by injuries. Nothing in these proposals signals an intent to improve these numbers,” said Wagstaff.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – Health and safety refocused on task at hand – BusinessNZ

    Source: BusinessNZ

    Health and safety law reforms announced today will make it simpler for small businesses to keep their workplace safe and people healthy, says BusinessNZ.
    Chief Executive Katherine Rich says the cost of compliance for small, low-risk businesses often overshadows best intentions.
    “Everyone deserves to expect a safe working environment – no matter the workplace. But red tape surrounding compliance and prohibitive costs have taken away from the task at hand – that is making sure people come home from work in one piece.
    “Small businesses are unsure which risks to focus on and often struggle with costs of compliance. The Government’s call to limit health and safety requirements in small, low-risk businesses is a sensible approach.”
    “Beyond small businesses, several more changes are on the horizon which should reduce resource-consuming paperwork and ‘tick-box’ exercises which have little to no direct impact on wellbeing at work.
    “BusinessNZ supports the war on red tape and encourages businesses to speak up on matters in all areas of work that add unnecessary strain and make it harder to simply do business.”
    The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – Reducing red tape for small businesses will ensure better health and safety compliance – EMA

    Source: EMA

    Reducing unnecessary paperwork for small, low-risk businesses will allow them to focus on the critical risks that are capable of causing serious injury, death or illness in the workplace, says the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA).
    The government has listened to the business community and responded in a positive but measured way with today’s announcement of changes to the Health and Safety at Work Act.
    “Reducing the red tape faced by small businesses will allow them to focus on the things that matter,” says EMA Manager of Employment Relations and Safety Paul Jarvie.
    “While this change in focus will not reduce safety in the workplace, it should reduce time-consuming paperwork and ‘tick-box’ exercises that have little to no direct impact on wellbeing at work.
    “When critical risks are identified, they must be managed comprehensively.”
    The changes will also reduce the amount of reporting small businesses provide WorkSafe for minor injuries or those not itemised in legislation.
    “This will free them up to improve other parts of the business, resulting in increased productivity and wellbeing,” says Jarvie.
    “The other changes announced by the Minister, such as reviews of traffic cone usage and the duplication of legislative coverage, also reduce the costs of compliance and free up resources.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and safety reform: missed opportunity to make workplaces safer

    Source: New Zealand Institute of Safety Management

    Health and safety professionals say the Government has squandered an opportunity to make serious inroads into New Zealand’s appalling workplace health and safety record.
    “The reform plan announced today is underwhelming and unambitious,” said Mike Cosman, New Zealand Institute of Safety Management Chair. “The Government has missed a golden opportunity to improve our poor health and safety performance.”
    50-70 people a year die in workplace accidents (double the rate of Australia and four times that of the UK). Another 700-1,000 die from workplace diseases and many thousands of others suffer significant harm.
      “We want to see all workers come home to their families healthy and safe; we can’t see these reforms improving these dismal numbers.
    “The reforms are focused instead on costs to businesses of prevention and not the much greater costs of harm. This seems to be looking through the wrong end of the telescope to us because the cost of our poor health and safety record is north of $4.9 billion per year to say nothing of the impact on workers and their families.
    “We’re deeply worried about proposals to exempt small businesses from some health and safety rules. Small businesses are less safe than big ones so this change is backwards. Why should workers face more risks if they work for smaller companies?
    “The sad thing is that the Minister had a blueprint that she’s ignored. All the players in our health and safety system have been clear what’s needed but the Minister appears not to have listened.”
    In October last year, key players from across the health and safety system including employers, experts, unions, academics, and representatives of our highest risk sectors wrote to the Minister and her Cabinet colleagues setting out what we know will fix our health and safety system. These recommendations highlighted the need for a much more strategic and coordinated approach.
    “Apart from some improvements to guidance development by WorkSafe, Minister van Velden has ignored advice from employers, workers and experts.
    “If the Prime Minister wants New Zealand be the best place in the world to live in by 2035then he should make turning around our shameful workplace injury and illness record a top priority. And if he wants to grow the economy, we need a healthy workforce to do it. An injured worker puts strain on businesses, ACC and the health system.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Violence and Cholera ravage Northeastern South Sudan, Impacting Western Ethiopia with Outbreak and Refugee Influx – MSF

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

    31st March: A humanitarian crisis is rapidly unfolding on both sides of the South Sudan-Ethiopia border, as escalating violence, displacement and a widespread cholera outbreak are pushing communities to the brink, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) warns.

    Clashes between government forces and armed groups, which initially began in Upper Nile State, now risk spreading to other parts of the country, while across the border, Ethiopia’s Gambella region is experiencing the effects of this violence. According to the United Nations, approximately 10,000 displaced people have crossed into Ethiopia since the beginning of March.

    “We have already witnessed how this violence has fuelled the spread of cholera in several areas, but a larger, escalating conflict could push the entire country into an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe,” says Zakaria Mwatia, MSF Head of Mission in South Sudan. “We urgently call on all parties to the conflict to ensure the protection of civilians, healthcare workers, and medical facilities, and to grant unhindered access for humanitarian and medical assistance, in line with international humanitarian law.”

    South Sudan has been grappling with cholera outbreaks across various parts of the country since last year. The latest wave, which began in Upper Nile State, is now spreading further into neighbouring Jonglei state, the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, and across the border into Ethiopia’s Gambella region, where MSF teams are working to treat patients amid the surge in cases.

    In Upper Nile State, MSF is treating those wounded in the violence and supporting cholera treatment facilities in Ulang, Malakal and Renk counties. In Jonglei State, MSF is responding in Lankien as well as in Akobo, where a 100-bed cholera treatment unit set up by MSF in Akobo County Hospital has treated over 300 patients in just over two weeks. MSF is also responding in Pibor town in the Greater Pibor Administrative area. Since the beginning of March, MSF teams have treated over 1,000 cholera patients across South Sudan and received over 30 patients wounded in the violence.

    Ruach Riek Chuol was admitted to MSF hospital in Ulang with injuries he sustained in the violence. “My goods and property for my business were all burned inside the house,” he says. “Everything was destroyed in the fire, including the house where I was.”

    In Ethiopia’s Gambella region, MSF in collaboration with the Ministry of Health has treated over 560 cholera patients since the start of the response in early March, in its Cholera Treatment Centre and units (CTC/CTUs) in Mattar, Moan and Burbeiye with a capacity of 100 beds. MSF is also running oral rehydration points and conducting water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and community-based activities including door-to-door cholera awareness and water purification efforts, reaching over 5,000 people across multiple locations. In addition to cholera treatment, MSF teams have also provided medical care to 160 patients wounded in the clashes in South Sudan.

    “I came here because back home in Nasir, people are being killed,” said a South Sudanese mother who recently arrived in Burbeiye, Ethiopia. “There was nothing to eat, and when we arrived at the areas where we took respite, my kids became sick. There were no health facilities that we could run to.”

    The situation is rapidly deteriorating as thousands fleeing violence in South Sudan are crossing the border to seek safety. In Wanthoa Woreda, a new encampment in Burbeiye has emerged almost overnight, with over 6,500 new arrivals reported by local administrators — many of them women, children, and the elderly, arriving after days of travel.

    “The displaced people are arriving in Gambella with little more than what they can carry,” said Joshua Eckley, MSF Head of Mission in Ethiopia. “Our teams are responding to the cholera outbreak and providing care to those arriving exhausted and in poor condition. There are significant needs, and without additional support, the situation could worsen.”

    This crisis comes at a time when South Sudan and Ethiopia are facing major reductions in donor funding, including the recent USAID cuts. While MSF does not accept funding from the US government, the cuts in the humanitarian and health assistance would severely reduce capacity of other organisations to respond to such crises.

    “In places like Akobo in Jonglei State, the cholera response has been highly impacted by funding cuts, including closure of critical health services,” says Zakaria. “A number of mobile clinics have already shut down following US funding cuts, and some organisations that supported health facilities, including cholera treatment units, have suspended all activities. This is part of a broader trend across the country.”

    The healthcare system in South Sudan suffers from chronic underfunding, shortages of skilled health staff, medicines and supplies, and has limited capacity to respond to emergencies. The country, already struggling to meet its own medical and humanitarian needs, is further burdened by the arrival of over one million people fleeing war in neighbouring Sudan. Urgent support is needed to provide safe water, implement widespread cholera vaccination campaigns, and reinforce treatment capacity for both cholera patients and trauma cases.

    “Disruptions in cholera treatment services, combined with reduced actors’ capacity to support oral vaccination campaigns, heighten the risk of further spread. We urge donors to allocate emergency funds for emergency response in South Sudan and neighbouring Ethiopia amid this escalating crisis,” Zakaria adds.

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU scientists have used a CT scanner to study ancient bone knives for the first time beyond the Urals

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    In the Laboratory of Nuclear and Innovative Medicine Physics Department of NSU Research is being conducted on archaeological finds from the collections of the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences using a computer tomograph. Until recently, this device was used by the laboratory’s research staff in preclinical studies of neuron capture therapy to examine animals and solve similar problems. However, the technical capabilities of the computer tomograph allow us to study not only biological but also non-biological objects. Currently, computer tomography is being performed on composite bone and horn tools from the late Pleistocene-early Holocene.

    Composite tools – in this case knives, arrowheads and spearheads – made using insert technology. They are a horn or bone base with grooves cut along the edges, into which cutting elements are successively attached – sharp, elongated knife-shaped stone plates. They are fixed in the grooves using glue of plant or animal origin: resin, tar, bone glue, honey or clay. Such tools appeared in Eastern Siberia about 15 thousand years ago and in a short time became widespread throughout its territory.

    The project of the junior researcher at the Institute of Archeology and Ethnography of the SB RAS Ekaterina Bocharova, who received the support of the RNF grant (No. 25-79-30002), is aimed at a comprehensive study of composite bone and horn tools using the most modern methods, among which computer tomography is important. At the moment, the study has no analogues in Russian or foreign archaeological studies. Scientists seek to obtain fundamentally new information about the technology for the manufacture of composite tools with stone inserts, their use and repair. Researchers plan to reconstruct these processes using modern methods such as three -dimensional scanning and CT. The data obtained during the project will allow you to study at a higher scientific level to study the technological and cultural features of the archaeological complexes of the late Pleistocene – the initial holocene in Eastern Siberia, as well as to explore the mobility of the ancient population and the processes of transmission of technologies and ideas. But for this, it is necessary to obtain high -quality models of the inner surface of the grooves of the studied tools, which is possible only with the help of high -precision three -dimensional scanning and computed tomography. More recently, this was not possible, since the conduct of research of non -biological objects on computer tomographs, which have medical centers, medical institutions and clinics, is prohibited at the legislative level. Last year, a laboratory -class microtomograph appeared at the Institute of Archeology and Ethnography of the SB RAS, but very small samples can be explored on it. Bone knives with 15 cm long for him are too large.

    – When we started preclinical studies on a computer tomograph in the framework of neutron -grinding therapy and hyperthermia on animal models, there were proposals to use this device to study non -biological objects – various archaeological artifacts and bone structures. Scientists of the Institute of Archeology and Ethnography of the SB RAS proposed conducting computed tomography of bone and stone tools from their funds. Such studies in our laboratory were carried out for the first time, but their quality turned out to be quite high. Now we have in joint plans – large -scale work on in -depth tomographic research of archaeological finds that have been accumulated by scientists of the IAET of the SB RAS for many decades. The benefits of these works are mutual: employees of the NSU Lihs master new competencies, and archaeologists receive a unique opportunity to study ancient artifacts using tomography. Of course, many medical institutions are equipped with computer tomographs, however, their use is prohibited at the legislative level to study non -biological objects. In our case, there are no such restrictions: our tomograph is the only one in Siberia and the Far East, permitted for scientific research. We are ready to cooperate with scientists who need this method. The strategy and concept of our Center for Tomographic Studies of the NSU is to eliminate this gap in science-in providing researchers with the opportunity to use CT-methodics to study artifacts and other objects that previously remained outside the tomographic analysis zone, ”said Vladimir Kanygin, head of the LEGU, NSU.  

    Researchers at the tomography department of the NSU Laboratory of Mathematical Analysis believe that it is much easier to work with non-living samples. There is no need for anesthesia, the introduction of a contrast agent, or the work of anesthesiologists, which is necessary when studying animals.

    — The samples are placed on the tomograph table in the order determined by the archaeologists: either as individual objects or as part of a composition studied as a whole. Then, together with the archaeologists, the obtained data is analyzed — mainly with the aim of studying the internal structures and identifying changes that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Ultimately, we provide a full information package, including three-dimensional reconstructions created by our equipment, — Vladimir Kanygin explained.

    Tomographic studies provide scientists with valuable information about archaeological objects that cannot be obtained using other research methods. The image of the object is scanned in three projections. It can be rotated, zoomed in, zoomed in, and broken down into fragments. The physical parameters of the image can be used to determine the material it is made of — stone, bone — or at least get as close to the answer as possible.

    — In the process of scanning objects, we obtain thin-section images based on X-ray examination and then create its reconstructions — both two-dimensional and three-dimensional — allowing us to see finer internal structures without damaging the samples. Based on this data, we can say what substances or their combinations a particular structure consists of, whether it is monolithic or folding, whether there is an adhesive composition that holds its parts together, or they are held due to the tightness of the fit. We can also reliably establish the shape and size parameters of the grooves of composite tools, examine internal microcracks and their direction. Based on this data, archaeologists will be able to establish the purpose of the object: household, hunting, combat or ritual. It is even possible to determine whether the weapon was used in battle, or was lost immediately after production, — explained radiologist, senior lecturer at the Institute of Medicine and Medical Technologies of NSU Lyubov Vasilkiv.

    Composite insert tools, according to scientists, are considered universal because their owner, when going hunting or into battle, did not have to carry several monolithic stone tools of similar purpose with the expectation that they would break. Instead, he could carry many small and light pointed replaceable stone plates, and quickly repair the tool as needed, replacing broken inserts with new ones.

    — Tools with replaceable inserts gave ancient people more mobility. Such tools were more convenient to use than simple stone knives or tips. As part of the project, we take a new look at composite tools. Using tomographic images, we will be able to look “inside” the object: accurately determine the shape of the groove and track its changes along the entire length, as well as measure, for example, the depth of the grooves or the angles of convergence of the sides. This data will help us determine how and with what tool the groove could have been cut. In addition, we plan to make replicas of such tools and try to model different options for their use. And then compare CT images of experimental and archaeological tools: what microdamages occur and from what action. The use of new, digital methods allows us to obtain new information about how the tool was made and how it was used, — said Ekaterina Bocharova.

    For the research, the scientists formed a sample of composite tools from the late Pleistocene-early Holocene industries of Eastern Siberia from several sites: Kazachka, Ust-Keul, Ust-Edarma (Northern Angana), Ust-Kyakhty-3 (Transbaikalia). For comparison, composite tools from the early Holocene complex of the Kaminnaya site (Altai), the Chernoozerye site (Western Siberia), the Gorbunovsky peat bog sites (Middle Trans-Urals), as well as materials from museum collections will be studied.

    — The use of computer tomography in archaeology in Siberia has not yet become widespread, which opens up great opportunities for technological research. Since inanimate objects are being studied, new tomographic approaches can be developed, various scanning modes can be tested, and device options that are rarely used in medical research can be used. As practice has shown, a number of available tomograph modes allow such studies to be carried out with technical novelty, which makes them especially valuable for archaeological science, — said Vladimir Kanygin.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – Appointment of Chair-elect for Mainland Group – Fonterra

    Source: Fonterra Co-operative Group

    Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd today announces the appointment of Elizabeth (Liz) Coutts ONZM as Chair-elect of Mainland Group, the proposed divestment entity of Fonterra’s global Consumer business.  

    An internationally recognised director and executive, Liz is currently Chair of ASX and NZX-listed companies EBOS Group Ltd (ASX/NZX:EBO) and Oceania Healthcare Limited (ASX/NZX:OCA), as well as private telecommunications company 2degrees Group Limited.  

    In the event of an initial public offering (IPO) for Mainland Group, Liz would be the Non-Executive Chair of the Board, presiding over the go-forward growth strategy.

    Fonterra Chair Peter McBride says the Co-op is pleased to have appointed Liz to head the Mainland Group Board.  

    “Liz has a proven track record of over 20 years as a Board Director, Audit Committee Chair and Board Chair across sectors. She brings extensive governance experience from both large private and public companies, and her leadership will be invaluable should we pursue a public listing for Mainland Group,” says Mr McBride.

    This appointment follows Fonterra’s announcement in February of the selection of René Dedoncker as CEO-elect and Paul Victor as CFO-elect of Mainland Group.

    Fonterra continues to pursue both a trade sale and IPO as potential divestment options for its global Consumer and associated businesses.  

    Over the coming weeks, it will be assessing non-binding indicative offers from potential purchasers and has recently completed meetings with prospective investors as part of the IPO process.  

    “This divestment is firmly grounded in an understanding of how Fonterra best creates value for farmers and New Zealand, both today and for generations to come.”  

    “We are thoroughly testing which divestment option will return the best value to farmer shareholders, while providing an ownership structure that allows our Consumer brands to continue to grow. A divestment remains subject to approval from Fonterra’s farmer shareholders and we will be putting our chosen option to them for a vote in due course,” says Mr McBride.  

    Fonterra continues to target a significant capital return to be made to farmer shareholders and unit holders following the divestment.

    About Fonterra  

    Fonterra is a co-operative owned and supplied by thousands of farming families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through the spirit of co-operation and a can-do attitude, Fonterra’s farmers and employees share the goodness of our milk through innovative consumer,foodservice and ingredients brands. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to leaving things in a better way than we found them. We are passionate about supporting our communities by Doing Good Together.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: School phone ban one year on: our student survey reveals mixed feelings about its success

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cara Swit, Associate professor, School of Health Sciences, University of Canterbury

    DavideAngelini/Shutterstock

    One year after the government banned cellphones from schools to help students focus and reduce distractions in class, we’re beginning to see how it has been implemented and how successful it’s been.

    As part of that process, our new research asked young people about the ban. Unsurprisingly, they had a lot to say.

    Schools around the world, including in Australia, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, China and parts of the United States, have implemented similar bans. The guiding principle everywhere has been to help students do better in school.

    When New Zealand’s ban came into effect in April 2024, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said it was time to cut the distractions so kids could learn and achieve.

    But studies have shown these bans often don’t work as planned. For example, recent research from the UK involving over 1,200 students found no significant difference in academic grades or wellbeing between schools with strict phone bans and those with more relaxed policies.

    With so many questions at the time of the ban about how it would be enforced, we wanted to hear what was going on in schools and what young people really thought. We spoke to 77 young people aged 12 to 18 from 25 schools around the country. Some liked the bans, some didn’t and some weren’t sure.

    Mixed feelings

    Many students had mixed feelings about the bans. Some admitted the bans helped reduce distractions and gave them a break from using their phones. As one explained,

    otherwise, we’ll be on our phone all day, all afternoon, all night, and it won’t be healthy for our minds.

    But other students said the ban had created new problems.

    First, some students felt stressed and anxious when they couldn’t contact their parents or caregivers during the day. Second, they said the rules weren’t always clear or fair. Some teachers were strict, others weren’t. And sometimes, teachers used their phones in class, but students couldn’t.

    That perceived double standard – where teachers can use phones but students can’t – left many of our respondents feeling frustrated and unfairly treated. In some cases, it even made them more secretive about their phone use. One student said,

    Even though we’re not allowed to use our phones, everyone is sneaky and uses it anyway.

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the cellphone ban would cut distractions so kids could learn and achieve.
    Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

    A lack of consultation

    A lot of students said they weren’t asked what they thought before the bans were introduced. They felt as if adults made the rules without asking them or listening to them. One of our interviewees said,

    It feels like they just ban everything, thinking it will fix the problem.

    Many didn’t understand the purpose of the ban, especially since they still have to use laptops and other technology in class.

    Recent research found more than 80% of students in Aotearoa New Zealand say technology in class is distracting – not just phones.

    Already, some students have found clever ways around the phone ban. At one Auckland school, students started using walkie-talkies instead of phones to stay connected with their peers.

    Examples like this show bans don’t always change behaviour the way they’re intended to. It can simply make students feel as though adults underestimate how tech-savvy they really are.

    Young people as active problem solvers

    The young people in our research offered some alternatives to the ban.

    Many suggested allowing phones at break and lunch times. That way, they could stay connected without interrupting class. They also said adults needed to model healthy digital habits, not just set the rules.

    Based on student responses, it does appear that learning and teaching how to use phones in healthy ways would be more helpful than banning them altogether.

    Research from the Digital Wellness Lab supports this balanced approach, emphasising skill building over restriction. But for this to work, adults need support too. Teachers and parents need training and resources to help guide young people – and should also be surveyed on how they feel about the ban.

    Banning phones doesn’t fix the bigger issue of helping young people to use technology safely and responsibly. If schools really want to support students, they need to move beyond one-size-fits-all rules.

    Our research shows young people aren’t just passive users of technology. They’re active problem solvers. They want to be part of the conversation – and part of the solution.

    This would involve replacing top-down bans with meaningful conversations involving young people and adults to build fair and practical digital guidelines, where everyone benefits.

    Cara Swit received funding from The Oakley Mental Health Foundation, InternetNZ and the University of Canterbury’s Vision Mātauranga Development Fund to conduct this research.

    Aaron Hapuku received funding from The Oakley Mental Health Foundation, InternetNZ and the University of Canterbury’s Vision Mātauranga Development Fund to conduct this research.

    Helena Cook received funding from InternetNZ, Oakley Mental Health Foundation and UC Vision Mātauranga Development Fund.

    Jennifer Smith received funding from Internet New Zealand and The Oakley Mental Health Foundation.

    – ref. School phone ban one year on: our student survey reveals mixed feelings about its success – https://theconversation.com/school-phone-ban-one-year-on-our-student-survey-reveals-mixed-feelings-about-its-success-252179

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Employment – Exhausted Bupa aged care workers take a stand against proposed cuts

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    On Tuesday, New Zealand Nurses Organisation Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO) BUPA members will be making a stand on behalf of their communities over fears planned restructuring will harm the safety of residents.
    The rally is part of a response to proposed nationwide changes by BUPA and other major aged care providers which will cut nurses’ and caregivers’ hours and increase workloads – putting the health and safety of elderly and frail residents at risk.
    NZNO delegate and aged care worker Epenesa Mutimuti says staff at aged residential care facilities across the country are in shock that at a time when New Zealand is in dire need of health care workers, and they’re under tremendous pressure, aged care providers are proposing cuts to care time.
    “The Government’s failure to adequately fund aged residential care is leading to providers to make impossible decisions that hurt both residents and workers, including Bupa.
    “Cutting back nursing and caregiver hours at aged care facilities puts the health and safety of vulnerable residents at risk.
    Epenesa Mutimuti says many workers are being forced to reduce their hours, which will leave them unable to afford essential living costs. Others are being made redundant after many years of loyal service.
    “In the 20-plus years I’ve been working in aged care, these are the worst conditions I’ve come across. We have no time to see to residents anymore.”
    Residents, their families and staff were not consulted when proposed changes to staffing were made by the employer, she says.
    “Staff feel their feedback, and that of residents and their families on the impact of quality care and health and safety has not been fairly considered.”
    The main rally takes place from 3.30pm at the corner of Park Road and Carlton Gore Road in Newmarket, Auckland.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese rescue teams racing against time to save lives in Myanmar

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Rescuers prepare to carry out search and rescue operations after an earthquake in Mandalay, Myanmar, March 30, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Since a 7.9-magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar on Friday, several Chinese rescue teams have arrived in the Southeast Asian country and are racing against time to save lives together with local rescue teams.

    A 37-member rescue and medical team from China’s Yunnan Province arrived at Myanmar’s Yangon International Airport at around 7 a.m. local time on Saturday, carrying emergency supplies such as full-function life detectors, earthquake early warning systems, portable satellite phones and drones. The team immediately joined a Myanmar fire and rescue team and headed to the badly hit capital Nay Pyi Taw.

    On Saturday evening, the rescue team arrived in the capital and started rescue work at once.

    Rescuers discuss rescue plans after an earthquake in Mandalay, Myanmar, March 30, 2025. [Blue Sky Rescue team/Handout via Xinhua]

    At 5 a.m. on Sunday, after an emergency rescue operation overnight, they rescued an elderly man trapped for nearly 40 hours under the rubble of Ottara Thiri Private Hospital.

    On Sunday morning, Myanmar’s State Administration Council Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing visited the hospital and extended his appreciation to members of the Chinese rescue team for their timely assistance.

    In Mandalay, another severely affected city, the first batch of members of China’s Blue Sky Rescue arrived early Sunday and immediately started rescue work with local volunteers. A quake survivor in Mandalay was recovered at around 9:30 a.m. by members of the Blue Sky Rescue team from China’s Hunan Province.

    At 6:30 a.m., more than 100 young volunteers of overseas Chinese in Myanmar started to carry out preliminary technical, information and logistical support work such as collecting information under the guidance of the rescue team.

    Members of the Blue Sky Rescue team, a Chinese civil relief squad, check the rescue equipment before departure in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, March 30, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Officials from the Myanmar rescue department briefed the rescue team on Myanmar’s arrangements for international rescue efforts.

    A local Chinese resident, surnamed Yang, told Xinhua early Sunday morning that many overseas Chinese living in Yangon drove more than 10 hours overnight to deliver supplies, such as antiseptics, gloves and N95 masks, to rescue teams in Mandalay. Many restaurants offered free meals to rescue workers.

    Relief supplies were rushed to the earthquake-stricken areas. On Saturday, China’s Yunnan Province launched an emergency response mechanism to prepare tents, blankets, foldable beds and other relief supplies, with the first batch of supplies arriving in Myanmar on Saturday by air.

    Rescuers prepare to carry out search and rescue operations after an earthquake in Mandalay, Myanmar, March 30, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    On Saturday evening, more emergency relief supplies were seen going through the border check at Ruili Port on the China-Myanmar border.

    To ensure quick clearance of relief supplies, rescue workers and medical personnel, the China-Myanmar border has launched a post-earthquake emergency clearance coordination mechanism, operating 24 hours a day with a green channel for related personnel and supplies, officials from Kunming Customs said.

    About 1,700 people died, 3,400 were injured, and 300 remained missing in the massive earthquake in Myanmar, according to the country’s State Administration Council on Sunday.

    MIL OSI China News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Next phase of Canberra Hospital Master Plan underway

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Upcoming building demolition will make way for new a facility for pathology and other clinical services. 

    The Canberra Hospital Master Plan will reach a new phase with demolition work beginning on Building 23.

    The demolition of Building 23 and the adjacent Building 6 will make way for a new state-of-the art facility for pathology and other clinical services.

    The next step in delivering a modern, accessible Canberra Hospital campus, it is also an early priority of the Canberra Hospital Master Plan.

    It is also just one of many significant changes taking place at the hospital.

    The hospital’s new Critical Services Building will open later this year, featuring a new emergency department and additional operating rooms, treatment spaces and intensive care beds.

    The hospital is also home to the recently completed expansion of the Centenary Hospital for Women and Children, and a new Cancer Research Centre to be completed in late 2024.

    Multiplex will undertake the demolition work for Building 23 and will then progress to the demolition of Building 6.

    Demolition work is expected to take several months and is projected to be completed in quarter three of 2024.

    The Canberra Hospital Master Plan will continue to transform the campus over the next 20 years.

    Planning work for Canberra’s new northside hospital and more community-based health centres also continue.

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    MIL OSI News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New graduate health professionals ready to help Canberrans

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    New nurses Ainslie and Shreejana are excited to get started on their clinical placements at Canberra Hospital.

    Canberrans can expect to see many new faces in healthcare settings around the city.

    A new cohort of over 360 graduate health professionals have joined Canberra Health Services (CHS) in recent weeks.

    There are over 200 nurses and midwives, 96 junior medical officer interns and 59 allied health graduates starting their first year of supported practice in Canberra’s public health system.

    These graduate programs help build and develop the city’s public health workforce.

    Graduates will experience a broad range of specialities across their rotations which span Canberra Health Services.

    Placements include:

    • Canberra Hospital
    • North Canberra Hospital
    • University of Canberra Hospital
    • justice health
    • outpatient clinics
    • community health care centres
    • Hospital in the Home
    • locations in south-east NSW.

    Shreejana and Ainslie are two of the new graduates starting at Canberra Hospital this week.

    Between them they will be rotating through the geriatrics, oncology, cardiology and orthopaedic wards.

    For registered nurse Shreejana, this career was a childhood dream.

    “I’m feeling very nervous, as well as excited,” she said.

    “Seeing all the support and the guidance that I will be receiving from the CHS team, I’m very, very much looking forward to this journey.”

    Enrolled nurse Ainslie completed her 18-month certification at CIT.

    “I wanted to care for people and give back to my community,” she said.

    “Honestly, it’s the little things. It’s when you ask someone “how can I help you?” It’s giving them a cup of tea, giving them coffee, giving them warm blanket. The little things that put a smile on someone’s face and just knowing that you’ve made them happy.”

    In a Canberra Health Services first, three cohorts of graduate nurses are undergoing orientation at the same time.

    This includes:

    • the graduate Transition to Practice Program
    • North Canberra Hospital’s existing graduate program
    • the Novice Nurse Consolidation Program, which offers an alternative pathway to join the nursing workforce for those who may only be able to work part-time or hold a working visa.

    “The new starters bring a great amount of enthusiasm and energy into our services and teams, and it is hugely fulfilling for all our staff to support and guide these new health professionals at a critical time in their career,” Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery at North Canberra Hospital Judy Ryall said.

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    MIL OSI News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: See inside Canberra Hospital’s new building

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Critical Services Building building provides a major upgrade and expansion to the Canberra Hospital.

    Construction of the new Critical Services Building at Canberra Hospital is progressing well towards the planned opening later in 2024.

    The 44,000 square metre building provides a major upgrade and expansion to the Canberra Hospital.

    It will include:

    • a larger Emergency Department, including a dedicated children’s emergency area
    • more operating rooms
    • more treatment spaces
    • more intensive care beds.

    The building’s public facilities and amenities have been designed to make the hospital experience more comfortable for staff, patients, their carers, and families.

    New facilities and amenities include:

    • two new cafes
    • a family respite lounge with kitchenette, meeting room and showers
    • breakout spaces and waiting lounges for patients, families, carers and visitors
    • parent rooms
    • a kid’s play zone and sensory room
    • a Changing Places facility with accessible toilet facilities
    • outdoor gardens, courtyards and terraces for patients.

    Take a peek at the construction work happening inside the building:

    Main reception area and view of patient transfer link bridge.

    Medical imaging in the Emergency Department.

    Nurses’ station in inpatient unit.

    Family lounge area in inpatient unit.

    Operating theatre.

    Surgical recovery area.

    Helipad.

    Acute care treatment space in the new Emergency Department.

    Ambulance triage area in the new Emergency Department.

    Treatment spaces in the new Emergency Department.

    Find more information on the Canberra Hospital Master Plan.

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    MIL OSI News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Preserving Canberra’s past

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The heritage home offers a unique glimpse into Canberra’s past.

    Lanyon Homestead offers a unique glimpse into Canberra’s past.

    The restored 1850s property is open for the community to enjoy, with some special events ahead to allow Canberrans to embrace all it has to offer.

    A rich, multifaceted history

    You can’t speak about Canberra’s history without appreciating the thousands of years of Aboriginal history preceding our 190 years of European settlement.

    And you can’t speak about the last 190 years of Canberra’s history without mentioning historic places like Lanyon Homestead.

    Each of the homestead’s residents left their distinctive mark over the years, and each area is meticulously honoured as part of the heritage site’s preservation.

    New life for a historic walnut tree

    Attention to detail in the property’s restoration and maintenance filters down to individual plants and trees.

    Recently, Lanyon Homestead and Yarralumla Nursery partnered to preserve a historically significant walnut tree, first planted between 1835 and 1840.

    Along with his team, the head gardener at ACT Historic Places, Neil Wright, tried to propagate the tree for eight years with limited success.

    “We just couldn’t get it, so we called Yarralumla Nursery in,” Neil said.

    “They’ve got better facilities than us. They’ve got 200 cuttings and of those, only 11 were successful.”

    The trees were grown under the careful watch of the team at Yarralumla Nursery.

    Eventually, seven were planted along the river corridor to replace the stumps where the original trees once stood.

    While Neil has a deep appreciation of the garden, he says Lanyon Homestead has something to offer everyone.

    “You come and do a tour of the house but then you realise it’s nice to just sit here, to have a cup of coffee at the cafe. The kids can run around, you can have a picnic, and then you come back again and appreciate something new.”

    The team at Lanyon Homestead meticulously manage the house according to seasonal needs. In summer, the muslin curtains billow in the breeze, while in winter the fires are lit and candles glow.

    Outside, the gardening team work to update the garden in line with the seasons.

    “I try and do something different in the garden every year to bring people back. This year we’ve got a big pumpkin display, and the Harvest Day Out is coming up,” Neil said.

    Harvest Day Out: Saturday, 2 March

    Harvest Day Out is a celebration of Lanyon Homestead’s autumn kitchen garden. There’s a focus on sustainable food and growing practices under the theme of “grow – preserve – sustain”.

    The event will include workshops, demonstrations, and tours. Guests can learn about practices like preserving, pickling, seed saving and gardening practices as valuable today as they were in the homesteads early days.

    From 10am to 2pm there will be face painting on offer, and from 10am to 4pm there will be market stalls selling coffee, food, wine, jewellery, arts and more.

    Find out more about Harvest Day Out.

    Dinner and stargazing events: various Fridays

    See Lanyon Homestead in another light and attend a Dinner with the Stars – dinner and stargazing event.

    Enjoy a two-course meal at Barrack’s Café, featuring produce grown in the gardens.

    Find out what to look for in the night sky, before venturing out to stargaze with telescopes.

    Find out more about Dinner with the Stars.

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    MIL OSI News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: 14 Chinese nationals injured in Myanmar earthquake

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Fourteen Chinese nationals were injured in Friday’s earthquake in Myanmar, the Chinese embassy in Myanmar confirmed on Sunday.

    The embassy said it would send staff to Yangon People’s Hospital to visit Chinese nationals who had been transferred from severely-hit Mandalay for treatment.

    Around 1,700 people have been killed so far in the 7.7-magnitude earthquake, according to Myanmar’s authorities.

    MIL OSI China News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New services for patients under record pharmacy funding deal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New services for patients under record pharmacy funding deal

    Patients to benefit from new services thanks to funding deal agreed between the government and Community Pharmacy England (CPE).

    • More services for patients at their local pharmacy and record investment for community pharmacies
    • Full-year funding package is the first to be agreed by the sector since 2023
    • Deal with Community Pharmacy England signals government’s first step towards rebuilding community pharmacy through its Plan for Change

    Patients will receive more services as community pharmacies receive record investment in the government’s first step to rebuilding community pharmacy through its Plan for Change. This demonstrates our commitment to rebuild community pharmacy for the long term.

    The Department of Health and Social Care confirmed it has agreed funding with Community Pharmacy England worth an extra £617 million over two years following a six-week consultation with the organisation.

    On top of this, the government is writing off £193 million of debt for community pharmacy owners to give them confidence going into the new financial year on April 1.

    The increase signals the government’s first steps in addressing the years of underfunding and neglect that has left the sector facing significant financial shortfalls.

    The investment comes alongside reforms to deliver a raft of patient benefits, as part of the government’s agenda to shift the focus of care from hospitals into the community, so that people can more easily access care and support on their high streets. The greater range of services provided will not only improve access for patients, but also free up GP time and cut waiting lists by avoiding the need for people to book in to see their GP.

    This includes:

    • Making the ‘morning-after pill’ available free of charge at pharmacies on the NHS for the first time ever, ending the postcode lottery women face in accessing the medicine and reducing inequalities.
    • Offering patients suffering depression convenient support at pharmacies when they are prescribed antidepressants, to boost mental health support in the community.
    • Cutting red tape and bureaucracy to give patients easier access to consultations, with more of the pharmacy team able to deliver a wider number of services such as medicines and prescriptions advice, Pharmacy First services, and carrying out blood pressure checks.
    • Boosting financial incentives for pharmacists to identify patients with undiagnosed high blood pressure and take pressure off GPs.
    • Boosting funding for medicine supply so patients have better access to the medicines prescribed for them. This includes writing off the historic debt linked to dispensing activity during the pandemic and increasing fees linked to dispensing prescriptions.

    Health Minister Stephen Kinnock said:

    Community pharmacists are at the heart of local healthcare, and we want them to play a bigger role as we shift care out of hospitals and into the community through our Plan for Change.

    We’re working to turn around a decade of underfunding and neglect that has left the sector on the brink of collapse.

    This package of record investment and reform is a vital first step to getting community pharmacies back on their feet and fit for the future.

    The agreement shows how this government is working in partnership with community pharmacy to deliver more care for patients closer to their home, freeing up GP appointments, and catching ill-health earlier and preventing it in the first place.

    The deal is the first full-year funding to be agreed by Community Pharmacy England since 2023 after it rejected an offer from the previous administration.

    It includes confirmation of a final funding settlement for this year (2024/25) worth an extra £106 million compared to the previous year, and a further £375 million for 2025/26. It takes the total package for the coming year to £3.073 billion.

    A further £30 million has also been freed up by devolving funding for blood pressure and contraception services to pharmacies.

    In total, the 2025/26 uplift represents a 15% increase in government spending on the previous year, higher than the record 5.8% growth in the total NHS budget.

    Community Pharmacy England Chief Executive Janet Morrison said:

    As highly trusted and accessible healthcare locations, community pharmacies have so much to offer patients and the NHS to help shift more care into communities.

    But we came to these negotiations as a sector in crisis – with the impact of a decade’s worth of real-terms cuts to funding leaving pharmacy businesses fighting to survive, and closures continuing at an alarming rate.

    We are pleased that this settlement takes a positive first step in the right direction for pharmacies, towards stabilisation and a better future.

    A sustainable community pharmacy sector can and must play a huge part in the future of the NHS.

    David Webb, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer for England:

    This positive investment underscores the importance of community pharmacy as an integral part of the NHS team, providing clinical care, optimising the use of medicines, and supporting people in their neighbourhoods to prevent ill-health.

    Thank you to community pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacy teams across England for your professionalism, innovation and commitment. I look forward to continuing our exciting work together to develop future professional practice, building on the achievements in education and training and workforce development that we have so far progressed.

    Amanda Doyle, National Director – Primary Care and Community Services, said:

    I welcome this funding deal for pharmacies, and I am pleased that community pharmacists will be able to build on their success in supporting patients through expanding their roles in recent years.

    Community pharmacists and their teams are delivering important clinical services for patients in the heart of their local communities, and, through Pharmacy First, patients have been given easy access to support for common conditions, as well as blood pressure checks, oral contraception and vaccinations. This funding secures their good work for patients for the future.

    The government has promised to deliver three big shifts through its 10 Year Health Plan, including moving care from hospitals into the community.

    Community pharmacies will play a vital role in delivering patient services at convenient locations under this plan, as well as helping the government’s wider objectives to build an NHS fit for the future through its Plan for Change.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 31 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cooee Point Reserve incident

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Cooee Point Reserve incident

    Sunday, 30 March 2025 – 9:48 am.

    A pedestrian has been flown to Melbourne in a critical condition following an incident at Cooee Point Reserve overnight.
    Police and emergency services were called to Cooee Road about midnight after reports a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle.
    The pedestrian was taken to the Northwest Regional Hospital with serious injuries before being airlifted to Melbourne in a critical condition.
    The driver of the vehicle – a 17-year-old-boy- presented to the Burnie Police Station a short time after the incident and was assisting police with their inquiries.
    Investigations into the circumstances leading up to the crash are ongoing.
    Anyone with information should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Reforms – PSA litigation stops health restructure of three directorates

    Source: PSA

    The PSA has agreed with Health NZ Te Whatu Ora that the planned restructure of three directorates will stop and that the litigation relating to these restructures is withdrawn.
    The restructuring of the National Public Health Service and two directorates in the Planning Funding and Outcomes business unit – Data and Analytics and Community Mental Health Funding and Investment – will stop.
    “We are pleased these damaging restructures have been stopped as a result of the PSA litigation, but we have still lost critical expertise in these teams through the failure to fill vacancies and because people took early exits when the proposals came out,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association for Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “We have won this fight, but the damage has already been done to our health system. We will keep resisting and opposing this Government’s attacks on public health.”
    The PSA filed legal proceedings last month with the Employment Relations Authority because the proposed restructures breached the Code of Good Faith for the public health sector, the Employment Relations Act 2000, collective agreements and Te Mauri o Rongo – NZ Health Charter.
    “The settlement means the proposed restructures are withdrawn and the current structures remain in place. Staff who are still employed and have agreed early exits can withdraw from that agreement if they choose to.
    “We remain steadfast in our opposition to the damaging cuts that have happened and remain underway and the steps the Government is taking to privatise our public health system.”
    Litigation covering the Data and Digital and Pacific Health directorates is still filed in the Employment Relations Authority at this stage with a full hearing timed for 22 and 23 April in Wellington and further litigation on other change processes will be heard after that.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Some Gen Zs are taking a ‘micro-retirement’. It’s one way to address burnout – but it comes with risks

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sugumar Mariappanadar, Senior Academic Researcher – Human Resource Management and Management, Australian Catholic University

    Dmitry Molchanov/Shutterstock

    For young people in the early stages of their career, the idea of waiting 40 years or more to retire might feel like a marathon. For those already feeling burnt out, it can be an excruciating thought.

    So – why not take a break or two somewhere along the way?

    The concept of “micro-retirement” is having a moment. While the term appears to have been first coined in 2007, it’s recently found new popularity on social media.

    The idea is that retirement doesn’t have to be a fixed, clearly defined period at the end of your working life. Rather, it’s possible to restore your human energy and levels of wellbeing by dipping in and out of it, with small or large career breaks.

    Many onlookers have pointed out that the underlying concept is not a new idea. Sabbaticals and other kinds of career breaks have been a feature of the workforce for a long time.

    However, the trend gripping some of the Gen Z workforce on social media appears to be slightly different. And while it’s trying to solve some legitimate problems, it could also carry some unique risks.

    Taking a break

    The notion that rest is crucial – that humans shouldn’t just work themselves into the ground – is very old indeed.

    Major religions around the world have long preached the importance of rest and restoration for human beings to survive the hardship of paid work.

    Letting employees get burnt out isn’t a good outcome for anyone.
    fizkes/Shutterstock

    Career breaks, however, are a bit different from the ordinary rest opportunities we get such as weekends, public holidays and annual leave. There are a few different types.

    The first is the full-time career break, such as a sabbatical. This is where an employee, in consultation with their employer, hits pause for an extended period.

    This might be to enjoy travel, develop new hobbies or complete training necessary for career progression. However, the company typically continues to pay a salary (or a percentage of it) during the mutually agreed period.

    In Australia, many employees are entitled to paid long service leave after serving between seven and 10 years with the same employer, depending on which state or territory they’re in.

    Taking a full-time job part-time, can also constitute a kind of career break for some. This is where an employee reduces their working hours or days and earns reduced pay compared to full-time work.

    Other types of long-term leave can include parental leave and leave for medical assistance.

    In Belgium, a government scheme allows employees to take a career break of up to a year, during which they receive a paid allowance from the government. Previous research into the scheme showed 76% of employees taking full-time career breaks from both public and private sectors were aged between 25 and 49.

    In Belgium, a government scheme allows people to take career breaks.
    Werner Lerooy/Shutterstock

    Micro-retirement might be different

    When Gen Z is talking about micro-retirement, they often aren’t talking about exactly the same thing as a paid, mutually agreed sabbatical.

    For many, micro-retirement is a voluntary choice to terminate their employment and support their living through personal savings or government support.

    But they are trying to solve similar problems: the health and wellbeing risks associated with pushing too hard – or for too long – at work.

    Research by the World Health Organization found the number of deaths from heart disease and stroke that could be attributed to long working hours increased by 29% between 2000 and 2016.



    Read more:
    What’s the difference between burnout and depression?

    The energy ceiling

    My own previous research has examined the “ceiling effect” of human energy. This is when an employee’s energy depletion reaches a tipping point due to their work and begins to affect their wellbeing.

    When employees reach the tipping point, or ceiling effect at work, they often use coffee and alcohol as a coping mechanism. This has long-term negative impacts on health.

    Sleep also becomes a problem, which can lead to “presenteeism” – where employees show up physically to work but function poorly. This can cost businesses in lost employee productivity.

    Flexible or hybrid work can be a double-edged sword that leads to intrusion on home life.

    Like any extended break, micro-retirement is a way to replenish or restore the energy depleted. Research into Belgium’s career break scheme found it did improve individual physical and mental health – but it’s important to remember this scheme paid an allowance.

    What are the risks?

    Micro-retirement might be a new label. But drawing parallels from research into career breaks, there is evidence of so-called “scarring” effects.

    This is where the future wages of an individual attempting to re-enter the job market after a career break may be lower than if they had an uninterrupted career.

    This can impact physical and mental health, and lead to lower income levels in retirement.

    Businesses may not be too inclined to develop policies to implement paid career breaks such as sabbaticals. That may lead more young people to take their own unpaid breaks.

    Outside of taking extended breaks, there’s a broader discussion to be had about increasing productivity by redesigning the way we work every day with sustainability and flexibility in mind.

    It’s crucial there are ways for employees to disengage from work on a daily basis to restore and replenish their energy.

    In addition to his academic post at Australian Catholic University, Sugumar Mariappanadar is a senior sustainability advisor at InSync Australia, where he has advised businesses on environmental, social and governance (ESG) sustainability business strategy.

    – ref. Some Gen Zs are taking a ‘micro-retirement’. It’s one way to address burnout – but it comes with risks – https://theconversation.com/some-gen-zs-are-taking-a-micro-retirement-its-one-way-to-address-burnout-but-it-comes-with-risks-252505

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘It is a seriously difficult role and only getting harder’: school principals speak about stress, violence and abuse in their jobs

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Kidson, Senior Lecturer in Educational Leadership, Australian Catholic University

    Isuzek/Getty Images

    School principals around Australia are responsible for about 4.5 million staff and students in almost 10,000 schools. Not only do they oversee students’ progress, but they are also responsible for the performance of staff and the wellbeing of everyone at their school. Their jobs are huge.

    As we have previously tracked in our annual survey of principals, their jobs are also extremely stressful and they are subject to regular abuse – often from parents.

    Our latest survey shows these trends are not changing. And more than 50% of those we surveyed are seriously thinking about quitting.

    Our research

    Since 2011, we have surveyed Australian school leaders. This includes principals, deputy principals, and other school leaders such as heads of junior or senior schools.

    In our new report, we surveyed almost 2,200 people, which is more than 20% of Australian school leaders. In 2024, we surveyed primary and high school leaders from government, independent and Catholic schools all around the country.

    This makes it the most comprehensive data set on principals’ health and wellbeing in Australia. It is also the longest-running survey of its type in the world.

    The survey asked almost 2,200 school leaders about their jobs and wellbeing.
    Sol Stock/ Getty Images

    High workloads and stress

    Previous surveys have shown school principals face unsustainably high workloads and high levels of stress. Unfortunately, these trends continue in our latest 2024 results.

    School leaders work an average of 54.5 hours a week during term time and 20.6 hours during holidays. They nominated the “sheer quantity of work” as the biggest source of their stress.

    This was closely followed by “lack of time to focus on teaching and learning” and “student-related issues”.

    As a high school principal from Western Australia told us:

    I do love what I do however it is a seriously difficult role and only getting harder.

    Generalised anxiety and depression reports have also increased from last year’s survey. Severe anxiety was reported by 14.8% of participants, up from 11.4% in 2023. Moderate depression is reported by 11.1% of participants, up from 10.6%.

    Critical incidents

    For the first time, our 2024 survey asked principals about the number of “critical incidents” they have to deal with. These are defined as an “often unexpected event that may involve loss or threat to wellbeing or personal goals”.

    Nearly three-quarters (73.7%) said they had experienced a critical incident while in their role. The most common type of incident was violence and security threats (43.9%). Suicide and suicidal threats represented 12.6% of reported incidents. Participants also reported medical emergencies (10.3%) and custody or child-protection incidents (7%).

    As one NSW principal told us:

    I think it is untenable for principals to continue to be under constant stress at this level and am aware that many of my colleagues are also retiring or considering retiring. I have only just turned 59 and would like to work for another 5-10 years but can’t continue due to the ridiculous workload and pressure.

    Schools are not safe for principals

    An increasing number of principals report being subject to offensive behaviours that are unacceptable in any workplace – let alone one that involves children and young people.

    Nearly 55% reported they are subjected to threats of violence, 57% are subjected to gossip and slander, and 35% are subjected to cyberbullying. These are the highest levels we have ever reported.

    When asked “from whom”, more than 65% of school leaders said parents and caregivers. Students also contribute, but unfortunately, so do staff. They were the source of 29% of “gossip and slander” reported by school leaders.

    As one ACT school leader told us:

    The major cause of distress are parents. Parents behave in an unreasonable manner, have ridiculous expectations and think that because they went to school they can therefore run a school. Principals are constantly defending staff from parents. Parents are rarely told to stop and desist by Education Support Offices.

    While many principals report loving their jobs, stress and abuse are constant features.
    Rawpixel.com/ Shutterstock

    Many prinicpals want to leave

    In 2023, we first asked the question whether school leaders seriously consider leaving their job. More than half (56%) agreed or strongly agreed with the statement.

    It’s pleasing to report this has reduced slightly to 53% nationally, but the trend is, unfortunately, not consistent across the country.

    For example, the figure in NSW has dropped from 63% to 51%, but in Victoria it has increased from 48% to 54%. Policymakers across jurisdictions could benefit from working together to address these findings, to see what is working and what is not.

    How can we help?

    The demands on today’s school principals are significant – the work takes an emotional toll – and this means we need different approaches to supporting them.

    It’s why we recommend education departments and school boards provide “reflective supervision” for school leaders. This gives professionals a regular chance to reflect on what they are doing with a confidential and experienced practitioner in the field, which in this case would be another experienced school leader.

    This is a widespread practice in other demanding workplaces, such as family violence, healthcare, and child mental health. Practitioners in these fields benefit through improved management of their own wellbeing, which in turn helps them support their clients and patients.

    We also need to make sure governments regularly and routinely consult principals about education policy.

    Schools and education departments should also explore alternative models to make the job more sustainable. This could include co-principals or job sharing models.

    Without change, too many leaders will leave too quickly, without anyone left to replace them.

    Herb Marsh receives funding from ARC research grant funding

    Theresa Dicke has received funding from ARC and still receives funding from several peak principal associations to complete this research.

    Paul Kidson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘It is a seriously difficult role and only getting harder’: school principals speak about stress, violence and abuse in their jobs – https://theconversation.com/it-is-a-seriously-difficult-role-and-only-getting-harder-school-principals-speak-about-stress-violence-and-abuse-in-their-jobs-253327

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Valley Medical Center Layoffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    03.30.25

    Cantwell Statement on Valley Medical Center Layoffs

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, gave the following statement regarding the 101 recent layoffs at Valley Medical Center in Renton:

    “Hospitals in Washington state rely heavily on stable Medicaid funding. I urge the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to quickly approve Washington state’s 2025 application for the Safety Net Assessment Program so our hospitals can continue to provide care for the most vulnerable.. The necessity of this program shows how hospitals are already struggling to keep pace with costs – and Congressional Republicans’ plan to slash up to $880 billion from Medicaid would be devastating for patients and hospitals. We should not be giving hospitals another reason to worry when they are busy providing lifesaving care.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Art for art’s sake? How NZ’s cultural organisations can maintain integrity and still make money

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ksenia Kosheleva, Doctoral candidate, Marketing, Hanken School of Economics

    Stokkete/Shutterstock

    When Auckland mayor Wayne Brown said in 2022 that the Auckland Art Gallery had the foot traffic of a corner dairy and cast the institution as an “uneconomic” entity, he conceded he was at risk of “being seen as something of a philistine”.

    But the mayor’s comments also highlighted a very real challenge. How can New Zealand cultural organisations secure their future when the value of art and culture is seen through the economic lens of profit?

    And does an overemphasis on profit make cultural groups wary of market and strategy, hampering innovation in the art and culture sector?

    Our research proposes a concept we call “generative coexistence”. We suggest that when market approaches are integrated thoughtfully, market forces and cultural missions can work together and enable each other.

    Why the market vs. culture debate is changing

    For years, cultural organisations were shielded from the market by state funding. But while government support remained relatively consistent, there was no consistent funding strategy. With each budget round being akin to a lottery, calls for change are becoming louder.

    The 2024 budget included significant reductions in arts funding. Cultural organisations were expected to find new ways to stay viable. However, as art institutions turn to practices like sponsorship, ticketed events and merchandising to boost revenue, there’s understandable concern about a potential loss of artistic integrity.

    Yet, market principles and cultural values can be aligned.

    In 2023, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra launched a digital platform, NZSO+, to stream performances, open rehearsals and artistic talks. Later that year, the NZSO performed to a flock of farm chickens, to support ethical farming and, simultaneously, modernise its brand image.

    The moves raised questions about whether the orchestra’s essence could be nurtured outside of concert halls. At the same time, they showed a possibility for cultural organisations to blend their authentic mission with commercial acumen, without compromising their intrinsic values.

    The NZSO’s streaming strategy didn’t just address a budget shortfall. It allowed the orchestra to reach wider, younger and more diverse audiences who might not otherwise engage with classical music. Through this market-driven approach, the symphony orchestra sustained its core mission of bringing music to all New Zealanders.

    Our research includes examples of cultural groups from around the world. It captures how, rather than seeing commercialisation as a “necessary evil” undermining the arts, cultural groups can use the tensions that come from the competing demands to produce creative solutions.

    Here, generative coexistence allows cultural organisations to adapt in ways that not only keep the lights on but also broaden their impact.

    Wellington’s Te Papa Museum uses blockbuster ticketed exhibitions to attract a wider audience while maintaining its cultural status.
    travellight/Shutterstock

    Generative coexistence in the arts

    We identified three main strategies for organisations in the arts and culture sector designed to help them thrive in a world where financial and cultural goals can seem at odds with each other.

    First, organisations need to embrace the commercial potential of cultural products.

    When approached thoughtfully, the strong commercial appeal of cultural products can support an organisation’s core mission and create a democratic counterbalance against sponsorship dependency.

    Wellington’s Te Papa Museum, for example, creates value through blockbuster ticketed exhibitions that attract a wider audience – such as last year’s Dinosaurs of Patagonia. By using selective commodification processes, Te Papa maintains its educational and cultural status and generates the revenue needed to innovate and expand its reach.

    Cultural organisations also need to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset.

    Organisations worldwide experiment with innovating existing business models to allow for creative and operational freedom. For example, performing art organisations are increasingly moving away from legacy models – such as venue-based events with tickets as the key revenue stream – into hybrid and digitally-led ones.

    Similarly, galleries and art spaces are opting for nomadic models, eschewing permanent locations but maintaining a strong online presence. This enables cultural actors to adapt and lower reliance on funding while creating cultural value.

    Finally, cultural organisations need to look into cross-disciplinary collaborations that align on shared goals. Finding a balance between financial stability and cultural integrity requires recognising opportunities to work together.

    How market and cultural values can coexist

    The New Zealand arts sector is still cautious about non-intuitive collaborations with adjacent fields, such as gaming, fashion or advertising. But partnering with the tech industry holds the promise of new levels of visitor engagement, while staying rooted in the commitment to community enrichment.

    Cultural organisations have to navigate a complex landscape where financial pressures and cultural missions intersect and create tensions.

    Our concept of generative coexistence encourages a more flexible view. Examples from around the globe show it isn’t about choosing between culture and commerce. It’s about turning tensions into a foundation for innovation, accessibility and resilience.

    Arts and culture are neither luxuries nor commodities, but integral parts of a thriving society. We are certain that New Zealand’s creative sector, which is unique, resilient and economically viable, can secure its place in a future that honours both the power of art and the realities of financial sustainability.

    Ksenia Kosheleva receives funding from The Foundation for Economic Education, Finland.

    Julia Fehrer and Kaj Storbacka 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. Art for art’s sake? How NZ’s cultural organisations can maintain integrity and still make money – https://theconversation.com/art-for-arts-sake-how-nzs-cultural-organisations-can-maintain-integrity-and-still-make-money-252362

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Myanmar quake: Search and rescue efforts continue in race against time

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    30 March 2025 Humanitarian Aid

    The human toll of the earthquake which devastated central Myanmar continues to rise, UN humanitarians warned on Sunday, putting more pressure on nearly 20 million people who were already in need of aid.

    According to news reports citing Myanmar’s military leader, around 1,700 are confirmed dead from Friday’s 7.7 magnitude quake, with some 3,400 injured and hundreds still missing.

    In the Thai capital Bangkok which was also rocked by the seismic event, 76 construction workers are reportedly still missing following the collapse of an unfinished skyscraper. The death toll there now stands at 17.

    The search and rescue effort in Myanmar is focused on the major cities of Mandalay and the capital, Nay Pyi Taw. 

    Some survivors continue to be pulled from the rubble and multiple international aid teams have reached the stricken areas – although the aid effort is being hindered due to damage to airports.

    Shelter, medicine, water

    “People urgently need shelter, medical care, water and sanitation support. This disaster puts more pressure on already vulnerable people facing an alarming crisis,” the UN aid coordination office in the region, OCHA, said on X.

    Burmese civilians are also stuck between forces of the military junta and numerous armed militia battling for control of the country since the February 2021 coup. More than three million have been displaced by the fighting.

    The National Unity Government which represents the democratically-elected civilian administration overthrown by the coup, called on rebel fighters to observe a two week ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need.

    But the military regime is reportedly continuing to carry out airstrikes, including in areas close to the epicentre of the earthquake.

    Call for ‘immediate ceasefire’

    The Human Rights Council-appointed independent expert who monitors the situation in Myanmar, Tom Andrews, said in a social media post on Sunday that the junta should follow opposition forces and declare an immediate ceasefire.

    “Military conscription should be suspended; aid workers should not have to fear arrest and there should be no obstructions to aid getting to where it is most needed. Every minute counts,” he added.

    The UN reproductive health agency, UNFPA, is one of the agencies on the ground urgently working with partners and local communities to assess critical needs and deliver life-saving aid – particularly for women and girls.

    Women and girls face ‘increased risks’

    In an update, UNFPA said early assessments highlight significant damage to health facilities, population displacement and the disruption of essential services, including sexual and reproductive healthcare.

    “In emergencies like this, women and girls face increased risks, from compromised access to life-saving maternal healthcare to heightened risk of gender-based violence, ” said Jaime Nadal Roig, UNFPA Representative for Myanmar.

    “UNFPA is committed to supporting relief efforts, placing the well-being of women and girls – including pregnant women, mothers, and adolescents – at the heart of our humanitarian response efforts.”

    UNICEF Myanmar’s Ko Sai, said in a post on X from Mandalay, that the quake was “an absolute catastrophe” for children in the region, with many youngsters and families in Mandalay still missing.

    “We need urgent assistance, especially for the children, who often suffer the most in this kind of situation,” he added.

    Lifesaving medical supplies

    The UN World Health Organization, WHO, has rushed nearly three tonnes of medical supplies from its emergency stockpile in Myanmar’s largest city, Yangon, to hospitals in Mandalay and Nay Pyi Daw.

    The UN World Food Programme (WFP) Country Director in Myanmar, Michael Dunford said in a tweet that the agency carried out its first emergency food distribution in Nay Pyi Taw on Sunday which included high energy biscuits “and we’re about to scale up our assistance.”

    WHO on Sunday issued a 30-day flash appeal for $8 million to deliver trauma care, prevent disease outbreaks and restore essential services that have been decimated by the quake. 

    Click here to donate to the UN emergency appeal for Myanmar 

    © UNICEF

    A major road in Nay Pyi Taw shows severe structural damage following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    March 31, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Intensified control measures too curb Foot and Mouth Disease

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Ministry of Agriculture has provided an update on the ongoing outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, with intensified control measures being implemented to curb the spread of the virus.

    As reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), KwaZulu-Natal has experienced 165 outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease, with 18 of these having been closed and 147 still active. 

    In a statement, the Ministry said an enlarged Disease Management Area (DMA) was declared on 17 March 2025, where signs of continued virus activity persist. 

    “Livestock owners are urged to maintain strict biosecurity and adhere to movement protocols to curb disease spread. Full compliance could result in a noticeable reduction of viral load after 28 days,” the Ministry said. 

    A new outbreak in Bergville, outside the newly-declared DMA, has been confirmed. The Ministry said the traceback suggests the infection originated from within the extended DMA boundaries before the declaration was made. 

    “Two additional suspect cases outside the DMA are under investigation and all these locations have been quarantined. 

    “Surveillance and vaccination efforts are being intensified within affected zones and a 10 km radius around infected locations. A meeting was recently held with key stakeholders to finalise the Movement Control Protocol for the DMA, now accessible via the department’s and KZN Agriculture’s official platforms,” the Ministry said. 

    Eastern Cape Disease Management Area Update 

    The Eastern Cape has reported 40 outbreaks, with 1 closed and 39 still open. 

    “One newly reported outbreak was detected through routine surveillance and reported to WOAH, but blood test results indicate past infection only, with no evidence of active viral circulation,” the Ministry of Agriculture said. 

    The Ministry said ongoing testing on selected properties aims to finalise surveillance efforts within the DMA, with the hope that the results will support the lifting of DMA restrictions in the near future.  

    In light of the encouraging results from ongoing surveillance, the department is now able to introduce targeted relief measures for farmers within the DMA whose herds have consistently tested negative and have not received FMD vaccinations. 

    These farms will now be permitted to process milk for local consumption through single pasteurisation, instead of the previously mandated double pasteurisation or UHT treatment. 

    Additionally, such farms will no longer be required to conduct 28-day interval testing to qualify for direct slaughter. These measures are intended to ease the economic burden on compliant farmers. Eligible farm owners are urged to contact their local State Veterinarian to apply for the necessary exemptions. 

    National biosecurity and movement controls 

    The following control measures introduced in October 2022 remain in effect: 

    • Movement of cloven-hoofed livestock across South Africa requires a health declaration from the owner.
    • Newly-introduced cattle, sheep, or goats must be isolated from resident herds for at least 28 days. 

    “Farmers are strongly advised to limit animal movements and exercise caution when procuring animals. Section 11 of the Animal Diseases Act imposes a legal duty on any owner or manager of animals to take all reasonable steps to prevent their animals from becoming infected with any disease and to prevent the spread of any disease from their animals or land to other animals or other properties,” the Ministry said. 

    Essential biosecurity measures include limiting and/or postponing the introduction of new animals if possible and, if necessary, only introducing animals from known clean farms with a health declaration, preventing nose-to-nose contact of farm animals with animals outside the farm, maintaining secure farm boundaries, and restricting access for people and vehicles as much as possible. 

    Report suspicious symptoms 

    FMD is a controlled animal disease in terms of the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No 35 of 1984). The Ministry has urged that any suspicious clinical symptoms (salivation, blisters in the mouth, limping or hoof lesions) must be reported to the local State Veterinarian immediately and such animals must not be moved under any circumstances. 

    The Act prescribes certain control measures, like isolation and movement control, that are being enforced by Veterinary Services. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    March 31, 2025
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