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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £15 million food surplus fund now open for applications

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Food redistribution charities can submit applications for grants starting at £20,000

    Food redistribution charities can now submit applications for a new £15 million Government scheme, which is helping to ensure surplus food is delivered to those who need it.  

    Every year, an estimated 330,000 tonnes of edible food is either wasted or repurposed as animal feed before leaving farm gates. This food should be going onto the nation’s plates, but charities often lack the resources to salvage it and provide it to the most vulnerable. 

    The new Tackling Food Surplus at the Farm Gate scheme will strengthen links between farms and charities to help solve the problem of food surplus on farms, with grants starting from £20,000 to help organisations fight hunger in communities.  

    From today (Friday 7 February), applicants can submit bids outlining how they intend to form relationships with farmers to access any surplus food, and how they would seek to increase their capacity to redistribute this food to communities.  

    The funding can go towards purchasing new packaging and labelling equipment and vehicles to move goods from farms to a redistribution organisation, as well as new equipment, like fridges or freezers, to safely store food and ensure it lasts longer.  

    The fund is open to food redistribution charities and any groups with an interest are encouraged to apply. 

    Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said:

    Nobody wants to see good food go to waste – especially farmers who work hard to put food on our nation’s tables. This fund will help charities work more closely with farmers to create new ways to get fresh produce to the people who need it most. 

    I encourage our brilliant, dedicated redistribution charities and non-profits to apply for this funding to ensure more British fruit and veg gets to those who need it most.

    In a joint statement, the CEOs of The Bread and Butter Thing, City Harvest, FareShare, The Felix Project and Co-Chairs of The Xcess Group said:

    As leaders of the surplus food redistribution sector and following years of campaigning, we are delighted to welcome the launch of this fund ahead of British growing season. 

    It presents an opportunity to make a profound impact by empowering local charities and community organisations. These groups are the backbone of British society, and we are proud to support them. 

    By working across the charitable redistribution sector, we can help ensure that this scheme is implemented efficiently through our joint capacity, delivers tangible value to taxpayers, and helps millions of meals reach as many people as possible at a time of considerable need. 

    Applications can be submitted online until 11:55am on 13 March 2025.  

    There is more to come as the Government moves to ensure the throwaway society is ended for good.  

    A new Circular Economy Taskforce, comprising members from industry, academia, and civil society across the UK, has been set up. They will lead on the development of a Circular Economy Strategy for England, which will outline how individual sectors can contribute to ambitions in this area.   

    This is alongside continued support for the Courtauld Commitment 2030, managed by environmental NGO WRAP, which looks to deliver a more sustainable supply chain and reduce food waste in the home – tackling food waste and reducing greenhouse gas emissions and water usage.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Return of 35 Malaysian Chevening scholars concludes year-long Chevening 40th anniversary celebrations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    35 Malaysians have returned home after completing their post-graduate studies in the UK under the Chevening Awards Programme.

    Acting Deputy British High Commissioner Tom Shepherd with the 35 returning Malaysian Chevening scholars

    This cohort saw 34 scholars completing their Master’s degree and one scholar completing an Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies fellowship programme. They are the 40th batch of Malaysian Chevening alumni since the establishment of the scholarship programme in 1983, and their return also marks the conclusion of the year-long 40th anniversary of the Chevening Awards

    Acting Deputy British High Commissioner to Malaysia, Tom Shepherd, hosted a reception today to welcome home the 2023/24 cohort of scholars. In congratulating the returning scholars, Sheperd said:

    The UK’s commitment to education and fostering global talent remains steadfast and the Chevening Programme is a great example of this. Strengthening the bond between the UK and Malaysia, these alumni have returned not only equipped with invaluable knowledge and skills but empowered to make a real difference in Malaysia, contributing to its continued growth and prosperity.

    The Chevening Award is the UK Government’s global scholarship programme, funded and administered by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. This is complemented by generous sponsorships by Malaysian corporate partners including Yayasan Khazanah, CIMB Foundation and the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation. British universities are also providing additional funding in support of the Chevening programme. 

    Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah, KGB, AO, Founder and Chairman of the Sunway Group and the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation said:

    The Chevening Scholarships Scheme has recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary and has, over the years, nurtured key talent in many countries in the world. The Scholarships have become a byword for excellence, prestige, loyalty and satisfaction. It has been JCF’s pleasure to support a Chevening Scholarship since 2018, and we look forward to doing so for many years in the future. This is a flagship programme in our links with the United Kingdom, which have seen us partner with Oxford, Cambridge, Lancaster, and the Royal College of Physicians.

    Norhidayah Aslah, Head of Scholarship, Yayasan Hasanah, said:

    Yayasan Khazanah is proud to support and celebrate the return of our Chevening scholars, who have gained invaluable global perspectives and expertise. Their experiences and insights will contribute significantly to Malaysia’s growth and development. We look forward to seeing them apply their knowledge, drive positive change, and make a lasting impact in their respective fields.

    Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Foundation said:

    CIMB Foundation is deeply committed to uplifting communities and driving positive societal impact through education, a core impact area that aligns with Chevening Scholarship. By investing in learning and development, we empower outstanding individuals with the expertise and leadership skills needed to drive meaningful change.

    The returning batch of Malaysian Chevening scholars from the 2023/24 academic year have graduated from disciplines such as Medical Ultrasound, Film Aesthetics, and Conservation and International Wildlife Trade. They attended prestigious institutions such as the University of Oxford, King’s College London and London School of Economics.

    Scholar Mandeep Singh who got a Masters in Anthropology and Development from London School of Economics and Political Science said:

    I am glad I made my voice count during my year in the LSE. While I got to contribute to various intellectual debates concerning the Global South, I did not lose sight of the everyday challenges which left economic growth precarious for the many. Through my postgraduate studies, I have urged anthropologists to play an active role in making development policies fair and just. I hope to work with public and social sectors to make this a case in Malaysia.

    Scholar Nur Ezzah, who attended SOAS, University of London and obtained a Master’s in Human Rights, Conflict and Justice, said:

    My Masters provided me with an in-depth understanding of the complexities surrounding human rights issues and equipped me with the tools to critically analyse policies and legislation through a human rights lens. My current role allows me to advocate for marginalised communities, ensuring that human rights principles are integrated into policies and legislation, fostering social justice and equality. My most memorable experience during my Chevening year was attending the Hay Festival of Literature and Arts in Hay-On-Wye, where I met some of my favourite authors and camped under the stars in that charming book town.

    Malaysia is the second largest recipient of Chevening awards in ASEAN and the 35 returning scholars are now part of the 2,000-strong Chevening Alumni in Malaysia.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sols 4445–4446: Cloudy Days are Here

    Source: NASA

    Earth planning date: Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025
    Overnight before planning today, Mars reached a solar longitude of 40 degrees. The solar longitude is how we like to measure where we are in a Mars year. Each year starts at 0 degrees and advances to 360 degrees at the end of the year. For those of us on the Environmental Science (ENV) team, 40 degrees is a special time as it marks the beginning of our annual Aphelion Cloud Belt (ACB) observation campaign. During this time of year, the northern polar ice cap is emerging into the sunlight, causing it to sublimate away and release water vapor into the atmosphere. At the same time, the atmosphere is generally colder, since Mars is near aphelion (its furthest distance from the Sun). 
    Together, these two factors mean that Mars’ atmosphere is a big fan of forming clouds during this part of the year. Gale is right near the southern edge of the ACB, so we’re starting to take more cloud movies to study how the ACB changes during the cloudy season. (Jezero Crater, home to Perseverance, is much closer to the heart of the ACB, so keep an eye on their Raw Images page over the next several months as well.
    The drive from Monday’s plan ended early, after just about 4 meters instead of the 38 meters that had been planned (about 13 feet vs. 125 feet). We initially thought this might have been because our left-front wheel ran into the side of a large rock (see the image above), but after we got our hands on the drive data, it turned out that the steering motor on the right front wheel indicated that a rock was in the way on that side too, so Curiosity stopped the drive to await further instruction from Earth. This is a well-understood issue, so we should be back on the road headed west today.
    The cold weather is still creating power challenges, so we had to carefully prioritize our activities today. Despite the drive fault, we received the good news that it was safe to unstow the arm, so we were able to pack in a full set of MAHLI, APXS, and DRT activities. Before that, though, we start as usual with some remote sensing activities, including ChemCam LIBS and Mastcam observations of “Beacon Hill” (some layered bedrock near the rover) and a ChemCam RMI mosaic of the upper portion of Texoli butte.
    After taking a 3½-hour nap to recharge our batteries, we get into the arm activities. These start off with some MAHLI images of the MAHLI and APXS calibration targets, then continue with MAHLI and APXS observations of “Zuma Canyon.” This is followed by DRT, APXS, and MAHLI activities of some bedrock in our workspace, “Bear Canyon.” Although we then take another short nap, we don’t yet stow the arm as we have a pair of lengthy post-sunset APXS integrations. The arm is finally stowed about an hour and a half before midnight.
    The second sol of this plan begins with some more remote sensing activities, starting with ChemCam LIBS on “Mission Point”. This is followed by a series of Mastcam images of “Crystal Lake” (polygonal fractures in the bedrock), “Stockton Flat” (fine lamination in the bedrock), “Mount Waterman,” and Mission Point. We then finish with some ENV activities, including a Mastcam tau and Navcam line-of-sight to measure dust in the atmosphere and a Navcam cloud movie. This plan ends with a (hopefully!) lengthy drive west and many hours asleep to recharge our batteries as much as possible before planning starts again on Friday. Of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that REMS, RAD, and DAN continue to diligently monitor the environment throughout this plan.
    Written by Conor Hayes, Graduate Student at York University

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Food 4 Less/Foods Co. and Ralphs Team Up with County of Los Angeles, Federal Emergency Management Agency and Small Business Administration to Support Communities & Businesses Impacted by Wildfires

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Food 4 Less/Foods Co. and Ralphs Team Up with County of Los Angeles, Federal Emergency Management Agency and Small Business Administration to Support Communities & Businesses Impacted by Wildfires

    Food 4 Less/Foods Co. and Ralphs Team Up with County of Los Angeles, Federal Emergency Management Agency and Small Business Administration to Support Communities & Businesses Impacted by Wildfires

    Los Angeles, CA – Food 4 Less/Foods Co. and Ralphs Grocery Company are continuing their support for local communities impacted by wildfires through a new partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Small Business Administration (SBA), and County of Los Angeles. The partnership was developed to provide critical recovery resources for businesses, employees, and residents impacted by the recent wildfires. Resource stations will be set up at Ralphs and Food 4 Less stores in Malibu, Venice, and Pasadena—including the Food 4 Less location closest to the heavily impacted Altadena area, where an estimated 9,400 residential and business structures have been affected.As part of this effort, FEMA and SBA representatives will be stationed at the following store locations to offer direct support between 9AM to 5PM PST until Saturday, February 8, 2025:Food 4 Less: 1329 N Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91104Ralphs: 910 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA 90291Ralphs: 23841 Malibu Rd, Malibu, CA 90265At these locations, FEMA will provide essential information and resources for individuals and families impacted by the fires, while the SBA will assist affected businesses, homeowners and renters with financial guidance and recovery support.​​“We know how overwhelming recovery can be after a disaster, and we want people to know they’re not alone,” said Curtis Brown, Federal Coordinating Officer. “By working with Ralphs and Food 4 Less, we’re bringing support directly to the communities that need it most—making it easier for families and businesses to get the help they need to rebuild and move forward.”This initiative is part of Ralphs and Food 4 Less/Foods Co.’s’ broader commitment to disaster recovery efforts, offering impacted associates and community members a direct link to federal assistance. Our primary role is to serve as a key access point for those seeking support.In addition, Bracken’s Kitchen will be on-site at the Pasadena Food 4 Less throughout the week, continuing their mission to provide free, hot meals to those affected by the fires, offering much-needed nourishment and support to the community*.“As a community-driven organization, we are dedicated to helping our associates, customers, and local businesses recover in the wake of these devastating wildfires,” said Salvador Ramirez, corporate affairs manager at Food 4 Less/ Foods Co. and Ralphs Grocery Company. “By teaming up with FEMA and the SBA, we’re ensuring our stores serve as accessible resource hubs for those in need during this challenging time.”In response to the fires, Food 4 Less/Foods Co., Ralphs Grocery Company, and The Kroger Family of Companies (NYSE:KR) have been working to provide essential support, delivering food, water, and supplies to evacuees, firefighters, and first responders. The Kroger Family of Companies is also raising $1 million for disaster relief and recovery, including $500,000 in company matching funds for customer donations to the American Red Cross and Feeding America’s local food banks.*While supplies last.# # #About Food 4 Less/Foods Co.:We are dedicated to our purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit™. Food 4 Less/Foods Co is more than 9,000 associates serving customers in 121 price-impact, warehouse-format supermarkets under the banners Food 4 Less in Southern California, Illinois and Indiana, and Foods Co in Central and Northern California. From the company’s headquarters in Los Angeles County, Food 4 Less is a recognized leader in community service and giving. The company supports Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative aimed at ending hunger in our communities and eliminating waste within our company by the year 2025. Food 4 Less is a subsidiary of The Kroger Co., (NYSE:KR), one of the world’s largest retailers, based in Cincinnati, Ohio. For more information about Food 4 Less/Foods Co, please visit our websites at www.food4less.com and www.foodsco.com.About Ralphs Grocery Company:Ralphs Grocery Company is dedicated to our purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit™. We are more than 18,000 associates serving customers in 184 supermarkets across Southern California. From the company’s headquarters in Los Angeles County, Ralphs is a recognized leader in community service and giving. The company supports Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative aimed at ending hunger in our communities and eliminating waste within our company by the year 2025. Ralphs is a subsidiary of The Kroger Co., (NYSE:KR), one of the world’s largest retailers, based in Cincinnati, Ohio. For more about Ralphs, please visit our website at www.ralphs.com.
    brandi.richard…
    Fri, 02/07/2025 – 00:00

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs executive order to further prepare for future urban firestorms, stepping up already nation-leading strategies

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 6, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed an executive order to launch key initiatives to continue adapting to future extreme firestorm events in urban communities and leading the way to build a more resilient state.

    Sacramento, California – Adding to California’s nation-leading fire safety  standards, Governor Gavin Newsom today signed an executive order to further improve community hardening and wildfire mitigation strategies to neighborhood resilience statewide. A copy of the executive order is available here.

    We are living in a new reality of extremes. Believe the science – and your own damn eyes: Mother Nature is changing the way we live and we must continue adapting to those changes. California’s resilience means we will keep updating our standards in the most fire-prone areas.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The executive order issued by Governor Newsom does the following:

    • Directs the State Board of Forestry to accelerate its work to adopt regulations known as “Zone 0,” which will require an ember-resistant zone within 5 feet of structures located in the highest fire severity zones in the state.
    • Tasks the Office of the State Fire Marshal with releasing updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps for areas under local government responsibility, adding 1.4 million new acres of land into the two higher tiers of fire severity, which will update building and local planning requirements for these communities statewide.
    • Requires the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) and the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) to work with local, federal and tribal partners on improvements to the Federal resource ordering system for wildfire response. 

    Protecting homes 

    Science has shown that combustible material within the immediate five feet of a structure contributes the greatest risk of embers directly or indirectly igniting the home. “Zone 0” regulations under development for new and existing construction would require an ember-resistant zone within the immediate 5-feet of structures in local area Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Local Responsibility Areas, and Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Areas.

    Zone 0 regulations would move forward this year in tandem with financial assistance and relief for homeowners, proposed in the Governor’s January Budget, and to be augmented by the California Conservation Corps supporting work in vulnerable communities and in coordination with local Fire Safe Councils. While it is anticipated that the regulations would apply to new construction upon taking effect, requirements for existing homes would likely be phased in over three years to allow homeowners to prepare and prioritize mitigations and secure financial assistance.

    Research suggests that the cost of building a home with Zone 0 mitigations already incorporated adds little to no cost to building a comparable home without those features. 

    Updating fire hazard severity areas

    To ensure future resiliency against urban firestorms, local government planners and developers will have to factor in wildfire-hardening requirements in building planning, design, and construction within nearly 2.3 million acres of land in areas where local governments are responsible for wildfire prevention and response, known as local responsibility areas.

    The release of updated Fire Hazard Severity Zones for Local Responsibility Area maps would identify new areas where new development is required to adhere to the highest standards of wildfire resilient building codes and land-use planning. These new zones and maps would add approximately 1.4 million new acres of land into the two higher tiers of fire hazard severity. Specifically, they would expand current wildfire building resiliency requirements in the High-Fire Hazard Severity Zone to approximately 1.16 million new acres, and they would expand both current wildfire building and local planning resiliency requirements in the Very High- Fire Hazard Severity Zone to approximately 247,000 new acres. 

    The release of these updated zones and maps, which are expected to be released one region at a time beginning in Northern California, would begin a 120-day clock for local government jurisdictions to adopt local ordinances incorporating the State Fire Marshal’s recommendations.

    The release of these Local Responsibility Area maps would follow last year’s release of equivalent updated zones and maps in the State Responsibility Area, and follow months of planning discussions, including consultation with insurance providers who have developed their own models to determine risk, premiums and coverage that are independent of the state’s Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps.

    Investing in wildfire prevention

    Overall, the state has more than doubled investments in wildfire prevention and landscape resilience efforts, providing more than $2.5 billion in wildfire resilience since 2020, with an additional $1.5 billion from the 2024 Climate Bond to be committed beginning this year for proactive projects that protect communities from wildfire and promote healthy natural landscapes. Of note, since 2021, the State has made strategic investments in at least 61 fuels reduction projects near the Palisades and Eaton fire perimeters through projects treated over 14,500 acres.

    The Newsom Administration has invested $2 billion to support CAL FIRE operations, a 47% increase since 2018, which has helped build CAL FIRE from 5,829 positions to 10,741 in that same period, and the Administration is now implementing shorter workweeks for state firefighters to prioritize firefighter well-being while adding 2,400 additional state firefighters to CAL FIRE’s ranks over the next five years. 

    Augmenting technological advancements and pre-deployment opportunities 

    The Newsom Administration has also overseen the expansion of California’s aerial firefighting fleet, including the addition of more than 16 helicopters with several equipped for night operations, expanded five helitack bases, and assumed ownership of seven C-130 air tankers, making it the largest fleet of its kind globally. 

    California is also leveraging AI-powered tools to spot fires quicker, has deployed the Fire Integrated Real-Time Intelligence System (FIRIS) to provide real-time mapping of wildfires, and has partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense to use satellites for wildfire detection and invested in LiDAR technology to create detailed 3D maps of high-risk areas, helping firefighters better understand and navigate complex terrains. 

    In anticipation of severe fire weather conditions in early January 2025, Cal OES approved the prepositioning of 65 fire engines, as well as more than 120 additional firefighting resources and personnel in Los Angeles, Orange, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties, and CAL FIRE moved firefighting resources to Southern California including 45 additional engines and six hand crews to the region. 

    During the wildfires, California was able to mobilize more than 16,000 personnel including firefighters, National Guard servicemembers, California Highway Patrol officers and transportation teams to support the response to the Los Angeles firestorms, and more than 2,000 firefighting apparatus composed of engines, aircraft, dozers and water tenders to aid in putting out the fires. 

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    What they’re saying: 

    • Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg, original author of the Mental Health Services Act: “Twenty years ago, I never could have dreamed that we would have the strong leadership we have today, committing billions and making courageous policy changes that question the conventional wisdom on mental health. Now, with the passage of Proposition 1. California is delivering on decades old promises to help people living with brain-based illnesses, to live better lives, to live independently and to live with dignity in our communities. This is a historic moment and the hard work is ahead of us.“
    • Senator Susan Eggman (D-Stockton), author of Senate Bill 326: “Today marks a day of hope for thousands of Californians who are struggling with mental illness – many of whom are living unhoused. I am tremendously grateful to my fellow Californian’s for passing this important measure.  And I am very appreciative of this Governor’s leadership to transform our behavioral health care system!”
    • Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks), author of Assembly Bill 531: “This started as an audacious proposal to address the root cause of homelessness and today, Californians can be proud to know that they did the right thing by passing Proposition 1. Now, it’s time for all of us to get to work, and make sure these reforms are implemented and that we see results.”

    Bigger picture: Transforming the Mental Health Services Act into the Behavioral Health Services Act and building more community mental health treatment sites and supportive housing is the last main pillar of Governor Newsom’s Mental Health Movement – pulling together significant recent reforms like 988 crisis line, CalHOPE, CARE Court, conservatorship reform, CalAIM behavioral health expansion (including mobile crisis care and telehealth), Medi-Cal expansion to all low-income Californians, Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (including expanding services in schools and on-line), Older Adult Behavioral Health Initiative, Veterans Mental Health Initiative, Behavioral Health Community Infrastructure Program, Behavioral Health Bridge Housing, Health Care Workforce for All and more.

    More details on next step here

    Recent news

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Building on yesterday’s positive meetings on Capitol Hill and with President Trump, Governor Newsom continued his bipartisan outreach in meetings with House and Senate leadership that focused on securing critical disaster aid for the…

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today announced he will issue an executive order to harden communities from wind-propelled wildfires that turn into urban firestorms.  Washington, D.C. — After meeting with key state and federal leaders on recovery…

    Feb 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom traveled to Washington, DC to meet with President Trump and members of Congress — focusing on securing critical disaster aid for the survivors of the Los Angeles fires and ensuring impacted families who lost their…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom meets with bipartisan U.S. House and U.S. Senate leaders on disaster relief for LA firestorm survivors

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 6, 2025

    What you need to know: Building on yesterday’s positive meetings on Capitol Hill and with President Trump, Governor Newsom continued his bipartisan outreach in meetings with House and Senate leadership that focused on securing critical disaster aid for the survivors of the Los Angeles fires and ensuring impacted families who lost their homes and livelihoods have the support they need to rebuild and recover.

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Governor Gavin Newsom continued his efforts to secure critical federal disaster aid to support survivors of last month’s firestorms in the Los Angeles area. On Capitol Hill, Governor Newsom met with members from both sides of the aisle in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate.

    Supporting Americans in their time of need is what this country has always done, and in California’s time of need we are seeking the same support and commitment we have provided others. This will take all of us, and I am committed, as I always have been, to working with everyone and anyone to see that Californians have the support and resources they need to recover and rebuild.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    In the morning, Governor Newsom met with Representative Tom Cole (R), Chair of the House Appropriations Committee. The House Appropriations Committee plays a crucial role in disaster aid by determining the level of funding allocated for disaster response, recovery, and preparedness.

    In the afternoon, Governor Newsom met with New York Senator Chuck Schumer (D), Senate Minority Leader.

    Today’s meetings build on a successful day on Capitol Hill and at the White House, where Governor Newsom had a lengthy and very productive meeting with President Donald Trump as well as more than 10 Republicans and Democrats in Congress — including bipartisan meetings with California’s Congressional Delegation.

    The Governor continues to take action to support the survivors across Southern California — cutting red tape, providing key relief, and ensuring bolstered support for those in need.

    Stay up to date on the Governor’s actions here.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today announced he will issue an executive order to harden communities from wind-propelled wildfires that turn into urban firestorms.  Washington, D.C. — After meeting with key state and federal leaders on recovery…

    Feb 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom traveled to Washington, DC to meet with President Trump and members of Congress — focusing on securing critical disaster aid for the survivors of the Los Angeles fires and ensuring impacted families who lost their…

    Feb 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom has taken unprecedented action to cut red tape and remove regulatory barriers to help Los Angeles recover and rebuild quickly – including by suspending CEQA and Coastal Act permitting requirements. LOS ANGELES — In response…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/NIGERIA – Catholic priest kidnapped.

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Abuja (Agenzia Fides) – A Catholic priest was kidnapped yesterday morning, February 6. He is Fr. Cornellus Manzak Damulak, who studies at Veritas University in Abuja, the federal capital. According to the diocese of Shendam, to which the priest belongs, “Fr. Damulak was kidnapped in the early hours of February 6 from his home in Zuma 2, Bwari Area Council of the capital district.””We call on all believers in Christ and all people of good will to pray for his speedy and safe release from the hands of his kidnappers. We entrust our brother, Fr. Cornelius Manzak Damulak, to the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Mother, and all the saints, to give him strength and bring him back to us,” the diocese concluded.The diocese of Shendam is a suffragan of the diocese of Jos, in Plateau State (central Nigeria). The Bwari region, where the priest was kidnapped, is one of the regions most affected by kidnappings. Many residents of the area, especially farmers, were kidnapped and large sums of money were demanded for their release.The way in which the priest was kidnapped, namely by bandits who attacked him in his home, is not new either. At the end of January, an entire family was kidnapped by bandits armed with Kalashnikovs who entered their home in Chikakore, a town on the outskirts of Kubwa (also in the Bwari region), about 30 kilometers from the center of Abuja. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 7/2/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: We Do Not Part by Han Kang: a haunting story which forces the reader to remember a horrific incident in Korea’s past that it tried to erase

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Hyunseon Lee, Professorial Research Associate at Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures, and Centre for Creative Industries, Media and Screen Studies, SOAS, University of London

    Jeju inhabitants awaiting execution in late 1948 wikimedia, CC BY

    We Do Not Part is the latest book by Korean writer Han Kang, who won the Nobel prize in literature in 2024. The book begins in fragments that ebb between dark dream, waking nightmare and memories of how the book’s protagonist Kyungha got to this terrible way of living.

    Even for those who do not know much about Korean history, it is fairly clear that something awful has changed Kyungha. When she closes her eyes images of women clutching children, black tree trunks jutting like limbs from the earth and so much snow flood into her mind.

    This experience has sapped all life from Kyungha and she is, when we meet her, simply waiting for death. That is, until her friend Inseon injures herself and asks Kyungha to travel to her home on the island of Jeju, south of mainland Korea, to look after her beloved pet bird, Ama.

    When she gets there, a violent snowstorm leaves her trapped in Inseon’s compound. Here, she stumbles upon the investigation into her friend’s family and its connection to the Jeju 4.3 massacre in the 1940s.

    In the early morning of April 3 1948, 359 members of the South Korean Workers’ Party and partisans carried out attacks on 12 police facilities and the homes of conservative leaders. They killed 12 people, including family members, before fleeing to the Halla Mountains. The term “Jeju 4.3” came from the date the incident is considered by many to have begun, even though it officially lasted from March 1 1947 to September 21 1954.

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    What followed was a massive counterinsurgency operation by the South Korean government (with US backing) to exterminate communists and their sympathisers on the island. While officially numbers are still not known, it is believed that more than 30,000 Jeju people (10% of Jeju’s population at the time), including women and children, were killed.

    In We Do Not Part, we find out that Inseon’s mother, who died several years earlier, was a survivor of Jeju 4.3. Han Kang’s impressive approach to presenting the memories of Jeju 4.3 is multi-layered, subtle, fragmentary and contains a high degree of sensitivity as she recounts the massacre from the perspective of Inseon and her mother.

    Inseon is part of a what the Holocaust and cultural memory scholar Marianne Hirsch termed the “postmemory generation”. She is the child of a survivor who has inherited a “catastrophic [history] not through direct recollection but through haunting postmemories”.

    Inseon has absorbed the stories of her mother as her own. For instance, in one of the first extracts of Inseon’s memories she speaks of her mother and her sister finding their family dead in the snow.

    I remember her. The girl roaming the schoolyard, searching well into the evening. A child of 13 clinging to her 17-year-old sister as if her sister wasn’t a child herself, hanging on by a sleeve, too scared to see but unable to look away.

    However, Inseon doesn’t remember. She wasn’t there. But, as Hirsch writes of the postmemory generation, such distinct “memories” are mediated by “imaginative investments, projections and creations”.

    Han Kang’s skilful use of Inseon’s postmemory carefully gives voice to the feelings of Inseon’s mother. Han Kang does this through presenting these in fragments that recount first Inseon’s investigative work, and then Inseon’s mother’s research into the family’s losses. These are inserted in passages of recounted conversations, writing and descriptions of photographs and films.

    These pieces are scattered amid Kyungha’s time in the dreamlike and snow buried compound. The intermingling of past and present, dream and reality, art and life creates an almost hallucinatory quality where the edges blur as Kyungha inherits Inseon’s memories – which she inherited from her mother. In each transference, these stories become new.

    This retelling and remembering is important. The 1947 to 1949 uprising is considered by some historians, particularly the American historian Bruce Cummings, as the precursor to the Korean civil war, which left the country divided into North and South. However, for almost 50 years, the very existence of the massacre was officially censored and repressed.

    It was only in 2000s that the incident was recognised and the National Committee for Investigation of the Truth about the Jeju 4.3 Incident was established. In 2003, then-president Roh Moo-hyun apologised for the deaths of the innocents and the state repression against the survivors, who had been severely stigmatised as enemies of the state and branded “red insurgents” (pokto).

    Hang Kang’s novel makes it clear that Jeju 4.3 is not simply an issue of the past, but one of the present that persists and lives on in the lives of all who it has touched. Inseon was born the only daughter of a mother who witnessed the massacre and a father who survived, not only on Jeju, but also afterwards on the Korean mainland. This parentage means she cannot forget nor repress it, it constantly intrudes into her life.

    Han Kang urges the public to bear witness, the reader does so through Kyungha. As she delves into the history through memory and official documents, we too do the same. In this act of reading we remember and name the tragedy.

    Ultimately, this becomes an act of commemoration of the victims whose spirits still seem unable to leave this life as they remain on the island in the form of wind, birds, trees, snow and sea. We see, as Kyungha sees, Jeju 4.3 has left too much pain and too many scars on the souls for them to forget and leave.

    We Do Not Part is captivating, moving and from sentence to sentence Han Kang’s sensitive approach to Jeju 4.3 makes us reflect on why we still need to remember and commemorate this tragedy and the many others that still go ignored.

    Hyunseon Lee 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. We Do Not Part by Han Kang: a haunting story which forces the reader to remember a horrific incident in Korea’s past that it tried to erase – https://theconversation.com/we-do-not-part-by-han-kang-a-haunting-story-which-forces-the-reader-to-remember-a-horrific-incident-in-koreas-past-that-it-tried-to-erase-249200

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New affordable homes given the green light 

    Source: City of Salford

    Plans for the construction of 25 affordable homes across two locations in the city that will provide much needed supported accommodation for young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness have been approved at Salford City Council’s Planning and Transportation Regulatory Panel (Thursday 6 February).

    The first development coming to Bridgewater Street, Little Hulton will comprise of three two-bedroomed and four three-bedroomed family houses, which have a traditional terrace layout with off street parking and secure rear gardens. 

    The site will also feature eight one-bedroom apartments for young people, aged 18 to 25, who are, or at risk of becoming homeless. 

    The new affordable housing will be owned and managed by Dérive, Salford City Council’s wholly-owned housing company.

    Councillor Tracy Kelly, Statutory Deputy City Mayor and Lead Member for Housing and Anti-Poverty at Salford City Council, said: “Affordable supported accommodation is such an important stepping-stone for helping people get back on their feet and is a vital step between homelessness and getting their lives back on track”.

    “The work we’re doing to provide truly affordable homes is crucial. The new, spacious low energy apartments will help tackle youth homelessness and the under provision of young persons supported accommodation in the city.

    “These homes will support a pathway out of homelessness into settled accommodation, and all the benefits that settled accommodation brings to improving life chances of young people, access to employment and education opportunities and improving health and wellbeing.”

    The second development approved at today’s meeting was Tully Street South, in Higher Broughton which will house a new development for young people who are, or at risk of becoming homeless. The ten self-contained apartments will feature single occupancy bedrooms, together with a bathroom, living/kitchen/dining area and storage spaces.

    Tully Street South’s development will also be owned and managed by Dérive and will be delivered under the Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP), a Government led scheme that aims to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping.

    These developments are part of our commitment to increasing the number of good quality, affordable homes, with support for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness. 

    Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “The approval of both these affordable homes developments is a significant step forward in our plans to provide the affordable and social homes which local people need and deserve. 

    “There is real need for schemes such as these in our city, with over 5,000 households on the city’s housing register and over 6,000 homeless presentations made to the council in 2023-24. It’s vital we continue to work to provide truly affordable housing in our city.

    “Housing is so important for the wellbeing of everyone. Without a stable, secure, affordable place to live everything else suffers, from health to education to employment prospects. It is due to this appreciation of the holistic benefits of good housing that we have put so much energy and resources into Dérive, our wholly owned development company and developments such as Bridgewater Street and Tully Street South.”

    Read more about the proposals.

    Share this

    Date published
    Friday 7 February 2025

    Press and media enquiries

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Charges to be introduced at on-street parking bays in St Albans and Harpenden, and a brand new Access Permit for older residents using the Council’s car parks

    Source: St Albans City and District

    Publication date:

    Charges are to be introduced at some limited waiting on-street parking bays in St Albans and Harpenden following an extensive public consultation.

    St Albans City and District Council’s original proposals have been modified in response to feedback from residents, Councillors, businesses and community groups.

    One aim of the proposals is to encourage active travel, such as cycling and walking, where possible, rather than car use, to improve the local environment.

    Other aims are to ensure a greater turnover of premium parking places and improve enforcement by enabling new methods such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition.

    Four new disabled bays are also being created to provide improved parking facilities for motorists with Blue Badges in Harpenden’s town centre. 

    The charges will affect an additional 243 bays in Harpenden and an additional 70 in St Albans, and are due to come into effect on Monday 17 February.

    Motorists will have several payment options, including contactless via pay and display machines, with new equipment to be installed at key locations; the mobile phone app PayByPhone; and, soon after implementation, and cash or chip and pin at PayPoint outlets.

    The decision to introduce charges required a Traffic Regulation Order authorised by the Council’s Strategic Director for Community and Place Delivery in consultation with Councillor Helen Campbell, Lead for Parking.

    Cllr Campbell said:

    I fully understand some people will be disappointed at being charged for a service they have been getting for free.

    In making the decision, we analysed the responses to the consultations and engaged with stakeholders such as ward Councillors and Harpenden Town Council.

    We listened to the feedback and we made some significant changes as a result, such as changing the start of the controlled hours to 9am in Harpenden to help parents dropping off for school, and meeting requests for a longer free period of 30 mins. In addition, we will also be improving access to Harpenden town centre for Blue Badge holders.

    Cllr Campbell added:

    The charges are benchmarked against other local authorities, with many towns of a similar size to Harpenden having long had charges for on-street bays. As with other parking charges, we will monitor the impact of the changes and review if necessary.

    The charges will:

    • Apply from 9am to 6pm in Harpenden and, reflecting local conditions, 8.30am to 6.30pm in St Albans, both Monday to Saturday, with no charge outside these hours.

    • Allow for a 30-minutes free period once a day.

    • Be £1.25 for 30 minutes, so the charge for a one-hour stay will be £1.25 while the two-hour cost will be £3.75, both including the free period.

    • Cover a maximum stay of two hours with no return for two hours.

    Charges will not be considered at bays in York Road, St Albans, as originally proposed, until a wider review of parking in the area takes place.

    Five limited waiting bays in Leyton Green, Harpenden, will be converted into resident parking bays for the benefit of local households.

    Revenue from charges will go towards the Council’s on-street car parking services budget, which is currently running at a deficit, and towards greater levels of parking enforcement.

    Cllr Campbell added:

    The Secretary of State is clear that parking services should be self-sufficient, funded by fees and charges, instead of subsidised by other Council services as is the case at the moment. The revenue generated will help reduce the on-street parking service deficit, which is in the interest of all Council taxpayers as it will ensure we can better protect some of our other services. 

    Should any surplus income arise from on-street car parking, it would have to be kept in a ring-fenced budget and only be invested in parking, highways and environmental improvements.

    ACCESS PERMIT

    Alongside these changes to the way on street parking operates, the Council has also approved a brand new Access Permit to help older people who may have difficulties with digital applications. This pass will be made available for purchase from Monday 10 February and will cover all the District Council car parks. 

    The pass will cost £190 a year and be valid for one visit a day for up to three hours.

    To be eligible for the pass, a person would need to be a resident of the District and aged 70 or over.

    Media contact:  John McJannet, Principal Communications Officer: 01727- 819533; john.mcjannet@stalbans.gov.uk.

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Glow up for old railway line in Preston thanks to community groups

    Source: City of Preston

    Network Rail is working with community groups to clean up an area in Preston that has been blighted by fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour.

    It comes after several tonnes of household rubbish, a selection of old sofas, mattresses and bikes have been illegally deposited along the disused Preston to Longridge railway line near Skeffington Road in Deepdale.

    The area was once a section of railway but has been used as a dumping ground by some local residents and businesses, prompting anger and frustration from the community. But now, Network Rail is working with community groups to remove rubbish and prune back trees and brambles so it can be a more positive space.

    The work is expected to take up to a year to complete and will focus on removing waste, pruning back trees and other vegetation and working with the community to use the area in a more respectful way.

    Nationally, millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money is spent clearing up after criminal dumpers each year. And Network Rail is warning those found to be at fault could face criminal prosecutions.

    Ian Croucher, Lancashire maintenance protection coordinator from Network Rail, said:

    It has been heartbreaking to see this old railway line being targeted by waste criminals. But now, thanks to the local community we have a plan to clear up the site so it can be used in a more positive way. Unsightly waste like this near Skeffington Road is a health and environmental hazard. Anyone who sees fly-tipping happening on the railway should immediately contact the British Transport Police.

    Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet member for environment and community safety at Preston City Council, said:

    It’s sad and disappointing that we find situations at some locations where people feel it’s okay to just dump their waste. We’re grateful for the work of community groups in helping to keep Preston tidy, and the work taking place at this site is already making an impact.

    Unsightly waste like this near Skeffington Road is unpleasant for people and a hazard for wildlife. Fly-tipping and littering are ultimately criminal and anti-social acts.

    Dumping rubbish anywhere creates an eyesore and the clear-up costs could be better spent elsewhere, either for private landowners or taxpayers if it’s the Council footing the bill.

    We continue to work with Network Rail combining our many resources to prevent fly tipping and to ensure the area is nicer for everyone.

    Visit Network Rail – Litter and Fly-tipping for more information on how we’re working to keep the railway and our surrounding land tidy.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor officially opens Sadler’s Wells East – part of London’s new culture and education powerhouse, East Bank

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Sadler’s Wells East becomes the first cultural venue to open at East Bank – London’s new culture and education powerhouse at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
    • The new purpose-built theatre will be a gamechanger for dance, providing inspiration and opportunities for performers and people across the capital
    • East Bank is creating an estimated £1.5bn for the local economy, thanks to the biggest cultural investment ever from the Mayor

     

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today celebrated a significant milestone in the creation of East Bank by opening Sadler’s Wells East – the first public cultural building at London’s new culture and education powerhouse.

     

    Sadiq hailed the brand-new purpose-built theatre as a gamechanger for dance in the city as he was joined by Britannia Morton, Executive Director and Co-Chief Executive and Sir Alistair Spalding CBE, Artistic Director and Co-Chief Executive of Sadler’s Wells, to officially open the new building in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park this evening (Thursday 6 February).

     

    The new venue features a 550-seat auditorium, six state-of-the-art dance studios and a public performance space for free shows. It will be home to the Rose Choreographic School and Academy Breakin’ Convention, a new school for talented 16-19 year olds, dedicated to hip hop theatre.

     

    The opening of this world-class venue is an exciting moment in the East Bank journey, which is bringing together some of the country’s biggest institutions to deliver a cultural legacy from the London 2012 Olympic Games, thanks to more than £600m of investment from the Mayor.

     

    London College of Fashion, UAL, and University College London (UCL) have already welcomed over 10,000 students to their new leading educational facilities, with the BBC and the V&A set to also open new buildings on site.

     

    The new cultural quarter will generate an estimated £1.5bn for the local economy. At the heart of East Bank is a focus on involving the community and young people, with 1,500 young people attending a summer school since 2018, and 89 young people taking part in the Shared Training and Employment Programme (STEP) – a scheme designed to match young East Londoners with entry-level roles in the creative industries.

     

    Tonight, Sadiq officially opened Sadler’s Wells East and met with performers and creators before enjoying a pre-show tour of the theatre. The new space enables Sadler’s Wells to produce fresh work inhouse and offer a much-needed dance space for mid-scale companies from the UK and around the world, who can now bring their shows to the capital, helping to support the UK’s dance ecology.

     

    The opening show is ‘Our Mighty Groove’, a club-night inspired mixture of house, waacking and vogue performance, created by choreographer Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu. Loosely based on her personal dance story, the show features a cast of professional dancers as well as 12 dancers aged 16 to 21, who live or study in east London.

     

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This is a huge milestone in the East Bank journey. Sadler’s Wells East will be a gamechanger for dance in the capital and across the UK, bringing world-leading innovative performances to a brand-new stage and providing fantastic opportunities for young people. With many of the staff and performers living and working locally, it is already making a difference to the local economy. East Bank is creating a fantastic cultural legacy from the 2012 Olympics and I’m delighted that Sadler’s Wells East will help to inspire audiences and benefit generations to come, as we build a better London for everyone.”

     

    Britannia Morton, Executive Director and Co-Chief Executive of Sadler’s Wells, said: “Sadler’s Wells East arises from the ambition that the 2012 Olympics on this site would create long lasting legacy, with culture and education joining sport as engines of economic growth and social cohesion, in a new vibrant cultural quarter – East Bank in Stratford. Thanks to the Mayor of London who has, alongside the UK Government, enabled us to create this amazing new facility for dance. We think that this building will make such a difference and will add to the thriving creative scene in east London. We’re so excited to welcome artists, audiences, visitors and community groups into the building for the first time.”

    Sir Alistair Spalding CBE, Artistic Director and Co-Chief Executive of Sadler’s Wells, said: “Sadler’s Wells East really is a new kind of cultural destination – with local roots, national impact and global perspectives. Opening in Stratford, in Newham, is a privilege and responsibility. We are committed to making a difference in this part of London, and Vicki’s production feels like the perfect curtain raiser to this new powerhouse of dance, combining professional and community performers from the local area in a joyous celebration of dance and movement! Looking ahead, there will be a kaleidoscope of styles throughout our first year at Sadler’s Wells East, really offering something for everyone.”

     

    Tamsin Ace, Director of East Bank, said: “This is such an exciting moment for London, with Sadler’s Wells East marking the first cultural venue to open as part of East Bank. Sadler’s Wells East joins London College of Fashion, UAL and UCL East which opened their doors to students in Autumn 2023, with V&A East Storehouse & Museum and BBC Music Studios to follow. We can’t wait for the students, teachers and visitors already populating the Waterfront to be met by dance practitioners and audiences coming in to witness the 2025 programme. A powerhouse of innovation, creativity and learning, East Bank is fast becoming a hallmark of what the 2012 Olympic & Paralympic legacy really means for all those who visit, work and live in east London.”

     

    Rokhsana Fiaz OBE, Mayor of Newham said: “The opening of Our Mighty Groove at Sadler’s Wells East marks a significant moment for Newham’s cultural landscape. As part of our commitment to Building Newham’s Creative Future, we are proud to see world-class performances taking centre stage in our borough, ensuring that creativity and culture remain accessible to all. This production reflects the energy and diversity of Newham, bringing communities together through the power of dance. This partnership with the Mayor of London underscores our shared commitment to bringing world-class arts to East London, creating new opportunities for local talent, and making culture accessible to everyone.”

     

    Uma Kumaran, MP for Stratford and Bow said: “I’m so proud that East Bank is leading the way once again. The opening of Sadler’s Wells East is a massive cultural offering in the heart of East London. This incredible venue will inspire the next generation of dancers, bring world-class performances to our doorstep, boost our economy, and create new opportunities for local people. Stratford and Bow is leading the way as a hub of innovation, arts and business delivering jobs, investment, and cultural excellence-it’s no surprise Stratford has been named the best place in London to visit in 2025 – London is moving East!”

     

    Justine Simons OBE, Deputy Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries, said: “The opening of Sadler’s Wells East is a hugely exciting moment for East Bank and for London, nearly seven years after we set out a vision to create a new culture and education powerhouse for our capital at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park it’s now a reality.  It is the biggest ever cultural investment by City Hall. This fantastic new venue will bring new productions to the capital, support the next generation of talent and opportunities for young Londoners for many decades to come.”

    Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu, creator of Our Mighty Groove, said: “It’s an honour to have Our Mighty Groove opening Sadler’s Wells East and I’m so very proud to present this Uchenna classic with the phenomenal cast and creative team I’m collaborating with. I want to give a special shout out to our young cast, a group of talented performers and definitely ones to watch. We can’t wait to groove with you!”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHP investigates cluster of food poisoning involving porcini mushrooms

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CHP investigates cluster of food poisoning involving porcini mushrooms
    CHP investigates cluster of food poisoning involving porcini mushrooms
    **********************************************************************

         The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 7) investigating a food poisoning case involving four persons who had eaten porcini mushrooms.    Two male and two female patients (aged between 30 and 74) presented with abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea and fever around two to three hours after consuming porcini mushrooms cooked in a residential premise on January 30. They sought medical attention at the Accident and Emergency Department of Queen Elizabeth Hospital and United Christian Hospital, and were admitted on the same day. All of them were discharged after treatment.     Based on their clinical symptoms, the CHP believed that the patients developed food poisoning due to consuming porcini mushrooms. Upon testing, samples of uncooked porcini mushroom from the same batch provided by a patient was confirmed to be a poisonous mushroom species containing certain gastrointestinal irritants that remain even after being cooked.     The investigation revealed that the porcini mushroom concerned was purchased by one of the affected persons from a shop in Lo Wu, Shenzhen, last December. The product concerned was not pre-packaged and did not have any trademark or information on its place of origin.      The CHP has notified the case to the relevant authority of the Mainland, and will continue to follow up on the case and take appropriate action to safeguard public health.          Mushroom poisoning is generally acute. Common presentations include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain appearing shortly after ingestion. Depending on the mushroom species, patients may also have other symptoms such as profuse sweating, hallucinations, comas or other neurological symptoms, as well as liver failure. Death may result in severe cases. If mushroom poisoning is suspected, the patient should seek immediate medical attention and bring along any available remnant for identification.     Members of the public are recommended to take note of the following when choosing or consuming mushrooms locally or overseas: 

    Buy mushrooms from reputable and reliable suppliers, and not buy mushroom products which may be mixed with unknown species;
    Do not buy mushrooms which look unhygienic, such as those with growing substrates left with the product, or those which show signs of spoilage such as coloured spots/abnormal smell/slime, etc;
    Do not pick wild mushrooms for consumption as it is difficult to distinguish edible mushroom species from inedible ones; and
    Wash and cook mushrooms thoroughly before consumption.

     
    Ends/Friday, February 7, 2025Issued at HKT 19:10

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS UNDER PMAY-G

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:28PM by PIB Delhi

    In order to achieve the objective of “Housing for All” in rural areas, the Ministry of Rural Development is implementing Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) with effect from 1st April 2016 to provide assistance to 2.95 crore eligible rural households with basic amenities by March 2024. As on 31.03.2024, all houses have been sanctioned to the eligible beneficiaries by the states/UTs.

    The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for “Implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) during FY 2024-25 to 2028-29” for construction of additional 2 crore houses. Ministry has allocated targets of 84,37,139 houses during 2024-25 to the 18 States viz. Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.

    As on 02.02.2025, a cumulative target of 3.79 crore houses have been allotted to States/UTs out of which 3.34 crore houses have been sanctioned and 2.69 crore houses have been completed.

    The main challenges in implementation of PMAY-G include the delay in release of Central & State Share from State Treasury to State Nodal Account of PMAY-G, cases of unwillingness of beneficiaries, permanent migration, disputed succession of deceased beneficiaries, delay in allotment of land to landless beneficiaries by the States/UTs and at times General/Assembly/Panchayat elections, unavailability of building materials.

    The Ministry is taking the following initiatives to ensure monitoring and timely completion of the houses under PMAY-G:

    1. Timely allocation of targets to the States/UTs.follow-up with States / UTs on providing land to landless beneficiaries of PMAY-G
    2. Issue based monitoring of house sanction and completion through workflow enabled transaction-based MIS-AwaasSoft, analytic Dashboard and using other IT tools & latest AI/ML technologies.
    3. Regular review by Minister/ Secretary/ Deputy Director General.
    4. Separate review of States with high targets.
    5. Timely release of funds to the States/UTs and follow up with the States/UTs for onward release to beneficiaries.
    6. Training to Rural Masons under Rural Mason Training (RMT) programme to make available pool of trained rural masons for faster construction of quality houses.
    7. Using newly launched IT tools including Awaas+ 2024 mobile app which ensures transparent beneficiary identification with Aadhaar-based face authentication.
    8. Creation of a dedicated performance index dashboard to create healthy competition and motivation among the States/UTs for achieving the set targets.

    This information was given by Minister of State for Rural Development, Shri Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

    ******

     MG/KSR

    (Release ID: 2100662) Visitor Counter : 57

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: RURAL DISTRESS SHOWCASED BY RISE IN HOUSEHOLDS UNDER MGNREGS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:26PM by PIB Delhi

    Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (Mahatma Gandhi NREGS) is a demand driven wage employment Scheme which provides for the enhancement of livelihood security of the households in rural areas of the country by providing at least one hundred days of guaranteed wage employment in every financial year to every household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work.

    In order to upgrade the skill base of Mahatma Gandhi NREGS’s workers, Government of India launched “Project UNNATI” in December 2019. By upgrading skill base of Mahatma Gandhi NREGS workers, the project intends to improve their livelihoods, so that they can move from the current partial employment to full employment through either self-employment or wage employment. The Project aims to enhance the skill base of 2 lakh Mahatma Gandhi NREGS workers. So far total of 82,799 Mahatma Gandhi NREGS workers have been trained (as on 31.12.2024).

    In addition, this Ministry also implements the following two welfare schemes in the field of skill development for rural poor youth for their gainful employment with a view to eradicate poverty in the country under the umbrella scheme of Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM):

    1. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY): DDU-GKY is a placement linked skill development program for rural poor youth in the age group of 15-35 years. DDU-GKY guidelines provide for earmarking 50% of the funds for SCs and STs and 15% for minorities. Further, one third beneficiaries of the respective categories including general category, covered under the scheme, should be women.
    2. Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs): RSETI is a Bank lead- MoRD funded training institutions established by the Sponsor Banks in their Districts, to provide training for Skill and Entrepreneurship Development. MoRD extends financial support for the construction of RSETI buildings and also bears the cost of training the Rural Poor candidates. Any unemployed youth in the age group of 18-45 years having an aptitude to take up self-employment or wage employment and having some basic knowledge in the related field can undergo training at RSETI. Some of the trained candidates may also seek regular salaried jobs / wage employment.

    This information was given by Minister of State Rural Development, Shri Kamlesh Paswan in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

    ******

     MG/KSR

    (Release ID: 2100660) Visitor Counter : 48

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRADHAN MANTRI AWAS YOJANA-GRAMIN (PMAY-G)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:25PM by PIB Delhi

    In order to achieve the objective of “Housing for All” in rural areas, the Ministry of Rural Development is implementing Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) with effect from 1st April 2016 to provide assistance to 4.95 crore eligible rural households with basic amenities by March 2029. As on 02.02.2025, a cumulative target of 3.79 crore houses have been allotted to States/UTs out of which 3.34 crore houses have been sanctioned and 2.69 crore houses have been completed.

    The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for “Implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) during FY 2024-25 to 2028-29” for construction of additional 2 crore houses. Ministry has allocated targets of 84,37,139 houses during 2024-25 to the 18 States viz. Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. Out of 84,37,139 houses, target of 46,56,765 houses has been allocated in the months of December,2024 and January 2025 to the 9 States viz Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Out of targets 84,37,139 houses,39,82,764 houses has been sanctioned as on 02.02.2025.

    The PMAY-G scheme has had a significant positive impact on rural India by improving access to affordable housing and had played a key role in transforming the rural housing landscape, reducing poverty, improving living standards, and fostering social and economic development in rural India. The scheme of PMAY-G has also been evaluated through various Independent institutes such as National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, NITI Aayog, National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, etc..

    PMAY-G is monitored very closely at all levels. There is a special emphasis on quality and timely completion of construction. The details of the monitoring mechanism adopted under the scheme are as follows:-

    1. All data regarding beneficiaries, the progress of construction, and the release of funds, including photographs and inspection reports are placed on AwaasSoft and this forms the basis for follow-up of both the financial and physical progress of the scheme.
    2. The physical progress of construction of a PMAY-G house is monitored through the geo-tagged, time and date-stamped photographs to be uploaded at every stage of construction and upon completion.
    3. National-level Monitors and Officers of the Ministry also visit PMAY-G houses during the field visits to assess the progress, the procedure followed for the selection of beneficiaries, etc.
    4. The Project Management Unit (PMU) at the State level is to undertake the tasks of implementation, monitoring, and quality supervision. Officers at the Block level are to inspect, as far as possible, 10% of the houses at each stage of construction; district-level officers are to inspect 2% of the houses at each stage of construction. Every house sanctioned under PMAY-G is to be tagged a village-level functionary whose task is to follow-up with the beneficiary and facilitate construction.
    5. Social Audit is to be conducted in every Gram Panchayat at least once a year.
    6. Payment of assistance to the beneficiaries, who have been sanctioned houses, is to be made directly into their bank/ post office accounts through the AwaasSoft- PFMS platform electronically. This ensure increased transparency by enabling real-time monitoring of funds disbursed to beneficiaries.
    7. To prevent misuse of funds under PMAY-G, the assistance is provided to the beneficiaries directly into their bank account/ post office account through Aadhaar Payment bridge System/Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in construction stage linked installments. At every fixed stage of construction of the house, the geo-referenced and time-stamped photograph of the house along with beneficiary is also captured.
    8. The progress of different parameters for implementing the scheme is monitored through the Performance Index Dashboard which is helping in planning appropriate intervention in required areas.
    9. There is also a procedure of lodging of complaints on the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) portal (pgportal.gov.in) by the public. The complaints received in the Ministry of Rural Development through CPGRAMS or otherwise are forwarded to the respective State Governments/ Union Territory (Union Territory) Administrations for redressal of the grievance. Apart from this, there are mechanisms like IGRS and CM helpline at the State Level for grievance redressal. The State-wise details of complaints related to misuse of funds are given at Annexure.

    Annexure

    State-wise details of complaints related to irregularities and misappropriation of fund under PMAY-G from 01.04.2016 to 30.01.2025

    State Name

    Brought Forward

    Received During

    Pending During

    Disposed During

    Andaman And Nicobar Islands

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Andhra Pradesh

    0

    2

    0

    2

    Arunachal Pradesh

    0

    2

    0

    2

    Assam

    0

    274

    0

    274

    Bihar

    0

    451

    2

    449

    Chandigarh

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Chhattisgarh

    0

    28

    1

    27

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Daman and Diu

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Delhi

    0

    8

    0

    8

    Goa

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Gujarat

    0

    8

    0

    8

    Haryana

    0

    7

    1

    6

    Himachal Pradesh

    0

    5

    2

    3

    Jammu And Kashmir

    0

    10

    0

    10

    Jharkhand

    0

    68

    2

    66

    Karnataka

    0

    2

    0

    2

    Kerala

    0

    2

    0

    2

    Ladakh

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Lakshadweep

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Madhya Pradesh

    0

    327

    2

    325

    Maharashtra

    0

    74

    1

    73

    Manipur

    0

    1

    0

    1

    Meghalaya

    0

    1

    0

    1

    Mizoram

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Nagaland

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Odisha

    0

    79

    0

    79

    Puducherry

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Punjab

    0

    10

    0

    10

    Rajasthan

    0

    55

    0

    55

    Sikkim

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Tamil nadu

    0

    84

    0

    84

    Telangana

    0

    3

    0

    3

    Tripura

    0

    1

    0

    1

    Uttar Pradesh

    0

    824

    3

    821

    Uttarakhand

    0

    16

    0

    16

    West Bengal

    0

    59

    0

    59

    Total

    0

    2401

    14

    2387

    This information was given by Minister of State Rural Development, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NUMBER OF MGNREGA WORKERS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:24PM by PIB Delhi

    State/Union Territory(UT)-wise number of active workers whose Jobcards were deleted under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (Mahatma Gandhi NREGS) during the financial years 2019-20 to 2024-25 (as on 04.02.2025) is given at Annexure.

    Mahatma Gandhi NREGS is a demand-driven wage employment scheme and the responsibility of implementation of the scheme is vested with the Government of concerned States/UTs. Updation/deletion of Job Cards is a regular exercise conducted by the States/UTs. Job cards have been deleted mainly for the reasons such as fake/duplicate/incorrect job cards, family shifted from Gram Panchayat permanently, Gram Panchayat classified as Urban etc.

    To ensure more transparency in the implementation of Mahatma Gandhi NREGS in the States/UTs, the Ministry has decided that States/UTs shall ensure capturing of attendance at the worksite through National Mobile Monitoring System (NMMS) App with geo-tagged two-time stamped photographs of the worker in a day for all the works (except Individual Beneficiary Scheme/Project) through NMMS w.e.f 1st January, 2023.

    In case worksite is not located in network covered area or attendance could not be uploaded due to any other network issue then attendance can be captured in offline mode and can be uploaded once the device comes into network covered area. In case of exceptional circumstances owing to which attendance could not be uploaded, the provision for exemption also exists.

    Ministry of Rural Development has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) vide letter dated 25.01.2025 to all States/UTs, with clear guidelines regarding deletion and restoration of job cards. The SOP ensures compliance with the Mahatma Gandhi NREGS guidelines, promotes transparency and protects the rights of workers by defining conditions for deletion.

    The SOP emphasizes the importance of due process, including the publication of draft lists of job cards marked for deletion, verification at Gram Sabhas, and the right of appeal for affected workers. It also mandates the linking of job cards with Aadhaar to eliminate duplicate and fraudulent entries. These measures are aimed at preventing misuse of job cards while ensuring that genuine beneficiaries are not excluded. The Ministry is committed to maintaining the integrity of Mahatma Gandhi NREGS and ensuring that the benefits of the scheme reaches eligible rural households.

    Annexure

    Sl. No.

    States/UTs-wise number of active workers whose Job cards were deleted under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS during the financial years 2019-20 to 2024-25 (as on 04.02.2025).

    State/UTs

    2019-20

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2024-25

    1

    Andaman and Nicobar

    0

    0

    4

    6

    10

    26

    2

    Andhra Pradesh

    0

    0

    10654

    256678

    154658

    79837

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    0

    0

    703

    4006

    8955

    8414

    4

    Assam

    0

    0

    25741

    82953

    154262

    379789

    5

    Bihar

    0

    0

    197417

    1183405

    203384

    251529

    6

    Chhattisgarh

    0

    0

    20271

    116583

    249202

    66524

    7

    Dn Haveli And Dd

     

     

     

     

    0

    0

    8

    Goa

    0

    0

    0

    4

    3

    10

    9

    Gujarat

    0

    0

    17274

    69476

    88558

    15408

    10

    Haryana

    0

    0

    4009

    7883

    4202

    2759

    11

    Himachal Pradesh

    0

    0

    1427

    7458

    9569

    2953

    12

    Jammu And Kashmir

    0

    0

    5101

    20782

    50591

    22542

    13

    Jharkhand

    0

    0

    78708

    259989

    163406

    151852

    14

    Karnataka

    0

    0

    28752

    158752

    58166

    14400

    15

    Kerala

    0

    0

    1295

    5730

    21418

    2602

    16

    Ladakh

    339

    1033

    206

    734

    470

    236

    17

    Lakshadweep

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    18

    Madhya Pradesh

    0

    2

    935912

    495850

    896927

    55013

    19

    Maharashtra

    0

    0

    6843

    71428

    21646

    13281

    20

    Manipur

    0

    0

    305

    998

    3904

    3636

    21

    Meghalaya

    0

    0

    657

    3433

    16976

    10907

    22

    Mizoram

    0

    0

    4405

    3228

    4173

    8871

    23

    Nagaland

    0

    0

    1778

    1864

    3191

    8130

    24

    Odisha

    0

    7

    339454

    520051

    262216

    222441

    25

    Puducherry

    0

    0

    9

    110

    134

    146

    26

    Punjab

    0

    0

    14720

    90601

    24089

    7947

    27

    Rajasthan

    0

    0

    23681

    153981

    214454

    24614

    28

    Sikkim

    0

    0

    263

    449

    753

    550

    29

    Tamil Nadu

    0

    2

    21996

    128553

    146106

    77193

    30

    Telangana

    3

    39

    2212

    159995

    40720

    30152

    31

    Tripura

    0

    0

    1971

    2767

    13201

    5795

    32

    Uttar Pradesh

    0

    0

    154326

    1127994

    608107

    26209

    33

    Uttarakhand

    0

    0

    3014

    12791

    20577

    16789

    34

    West Bengal

    0

    0

    5921

    506981

    40663

    2309

     

    Total

    342

    1083

    1909029

    5455513

    3484691

    1512864

     

    This information was given by Minister of State for Rural Development, Shri Kamlesh Paswan in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

    ******

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Anganwadi workers technologically empowered with the provision of smartphones for efficient monitoring and service delivery under Mission Poshan 2.0

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Anganwadi workers technologically empowered with the provision of smartphones for efficient monitoring and service delivery under Mission Poshan 2.0

    Provision of performance linked incentives for Anganwadi workers and helpers  for growth measurement, home visits and opening of Anganwadi centres

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:12PM by PIB Delhi

    Poshan Abhiyaan, an overarching scheme for holistic nourishment was launched on 8th March 2018 to improve nutritional outcomes for children, adolescents, pregnant women and lactating mothers. Under Poshan Abhiyaan, Incremental Learning Approach (ILA) was incorporated in order to build and strengthen the capacity of Anganwadi workers. Under the 15th Finance Commission, to address the challenge of malnutrition, various components like Anganwadi services, Poshan Abhiyaan and Scheme for Adolescent girls (of 14-18 years in Aspirational Districts and North-Eastern region) have been subsumed under the umbrella Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 (Mission Poshan 2.0).

    Under Mission Poshan 2.0, Anganwadi workers (AWWs) have been technologically empowered with the provision of smartphones for efficient monitoring and service delivery. IT systems have been leveraged to strengthen and bring about transparency in nutrition delivery support systems at the Anganwadi centres and for dynamic identification of stunting, wasting, under-weight prevalence among children (0-6 years). It has facilitated near real time data collection for Anganwadi Services such as, daily attendance, Early childhood care and Education (ECCE), Provision of Hot Cooked Meal (HCM)/Take Home Ration (THR-not raw ration), Growth Measurement etc. This application is working as a job aid for Anganwadi Worker replacing the need for maintaining physical registers; thereby reducing her workload.

    The learning modules on nutrition and early care and education for capacity building of all Anganwadi workers are readily available online on Poshan Tracker.

    Further, Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi (PBPB) initiative was launched on 10th May, 2023 for upskilling of all Anganwadi workers to build their capacity to provide early childhood care and nutrition service to children below six years of age. As on date, 31,114 SLMTs (CDPOs, Supervisors and Additional Resource Persons) and 145,481 AWWs have been trained across the country under Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi programme.

    One of the key program elements of the Mission Poshan 2.0 is incentivizing Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs) monthly for optimal delivery of nutrition and health services and supporting behaviour change. There is a provision of performance linked incentives of Rs 500/- per month and Rs 250/- per month for Anganwadi workers and Anganwadi helpers respectively for growth measurement, home visits and opening of Anganwadi centres.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt. Savitri Thakur in Lok Sabha in reply to a question today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Anganwadi centres are the world’s largest childcare institutions dedicated to providing essential care and support to children ensuring delivery of care facilities till the last mile

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Anganwadi centres are the world’s largest childcare institutions dedicated to providing essential care and support to children ensuring delivery of care facilities till the last mile

    In a first of its kind approach, Ministry has extended the services of childcare through Anganwadi cum Crèche

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:11PM by PIB Delhi

    Government’s sustained initiatives on education, skilling and employment of women have resulted in increased opportunities for their employment, and more and more women are now in gainful employment, working within or outside their homes. Growing industrialization and urbanisation have also led to increased migration into the cities. Past few decades have shown a rapid increase in nuclear families. Thus, the children of such working women, who were earlier getting support from joint families while they were at work, are now in need of day care services which have to provide quality care and protection for the children. Lack of proper day-care services is, often, a deterrent for women to go out and work. Hence, there is an urgent need for improved quality and reach of day care services/crèches for working women amongst all socioeconomic groups both in the organized and unorganized sectors.

    To address these difficulties faced by the working mothers in giving due child care and protection to their children, day-care crèche facilities are being provided through Palna Scheme. Crèche services formalise the child care responsibilities hitherto considered as part of domestic work. Formalization of care work supports the “decent work campaign” to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 8 – Decent work and economic growth. This will also enable more mothers, who will be free from unpaid child-care responsibilities, to take up gainful employment.

    Anganwadi centres are the world’s largest childcare institutions dedicated to providing essential care and support to children ensuring delivery of care facilities till the last mile. In a first of its kind approach, Ministry has extended the services of childcare through Anganwadi cum Crèche (AWCC). This will ensure whole day childcare support ensuring their well-being in a safe and secure environment. Anganwadi cum Crèche initiative aims to increase ‘women work force participation’ in the economy. The objective of Palna Scheme is to provide quality crèche facility in safe and secure environment for children (from ages 6 months – 6 years), nutritional support, health and cognitive development of children, growth monitoring & immunization. Crèche facilities under Palna are provided to all mothers, irrespective of their employment status.

    Palna is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme ensuring the participation of State/ UT government to ensure better day-to-day monitoring and proper implementation of scheme, and is implemented with a funding ratio of 60:40 between Centre and State Governments and UTs with legislature except North East & Special Category States where ratio is 90:10. For UTs without legislature, 100% funding is provided by the central government.

    Proposals for establishment and operation of AWCCs are received from the respective State Governments/UT Administrations. As on date, a total of 11,395 AWCCs have been approved as per proposals received from various States/UTs.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt. Savitri Thakur in Lok Sabha in reply to a question today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Facilitator guidebook developed by NIPCCD for training of Anganwadi Workers under Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Facilitator guidebook developed by NIPCCD for training of Anganwadi Workers under Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi

    31,114 State Level Master Trainers and 145,481 Anganwadi Workers trained  under PBPBT till 2nd February, 2024

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:04PM by PIB Delhi

    Under Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi (PBPB) initiative, a total of Rs. 476.05 Crore has been sanctioned for Training of State Level Master Trainers (CDPOs, Supervisors and Additional Resource Persons) and Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) under Anganwadi Services Scheme during FY 2023-24 to FY 2025-2026.

    Under PBPB, the Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) are imparted training on addressing malnutrition: Severely Acute Malnourished (SAM), Moderately Acute Malnourished (MAM) and micronutrient deficiencies among children. A facilitator guidebook has been developed by National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD) for training of Anganwadi Workers under Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi. Special emphasis on balanced diet and inculcating healthy practices among children with increased intake of fruits & vegetables is given during the training. The training also includes sanitation and hygiene practices imparted to the children at Anganwadi Centres (AWCs). Importance of including parents and community in development of children for inculcation of good nutritional practices is also a part of the programme.

    Under Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi, Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Training to Anganwadi Workers is imparted through a Three-Day Programme Schedule (18 hours Duration). Special Training sessions include – “Navchetana- National Framework for Early Childhood Stimulation for Children from Birth to Three Years, 2024” and “Aadharshila- National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education for Children from Three to Six Years 2024”. Main emphasis is given on Play Based Activities for ECCE in each AWC and Weekly Play Based Calendar for ECCE. Poshan Component includes Protocol for Management of Malnutrition in Children: SAM, MAM and Micronutrient Deficiencies among Children; Nutrition, Personal Hygiene and Sanitation for Children (0-6 years) & Dietary Guidelines; Growth Monitoring and Poshan Tracker and Parental Engagement and Community Mobilization for ECCE and Poshan. Special efforts have been directed to include Divyang Children – Screening, Inclusion and Referrals.

    As on 2nd February, 2025 a total of 31,114 State Level Master Trainers (SLMTs) and 145,481 Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) have been trained across the country under Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi. In Rajasthan 1644 SLMTs and 18,690 AWWs have been trained under PBPB.

    To monitor the process of overall development of children under the said scheme, i.e. PBPB, Poshan Tracker, an important governance tool to ensure transparency in nutrition and Early Childhood Care and Education service delivery at Anganwadi Centres is used. It is available in 24 languages. For the first time in the Anganwadi eco system, baseline data on nutritional indicators is available on Poshan Tracker with monitoring of nutritional delivery (Take Home Ration/Hot Cooked Meal) and growth measurement on real time basis.

    To make training programme more sustainable in long term for anganwadi workers, provisions from Aadharshila including weekly activity schedules, home visit guidance, assessment tools for tracking child development etc. are included on the Poshan Tracker. These include daily on-the-job nudges, in the form of videos on how to conduct simple play-based learning activities with the children. 432 video slots in total with 230 unique videos have been uploaded on the Poshan Tracker Portal. 1008 activity details, 1008 daily PDFs and daily voice note slots have also been uploaded. Content is focused on 6 domains of development including foundational literacy, numeracy, and interactive activities.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt. Savitri Thakur in Lok Sabha in reply to a question today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Achieves Historic Milestone of 100 GW Solar Power Capacity

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India Achieves Historic Milestone of 100 GW Solar Power Capacity

    With 100 GW solar power achieved, India is moving towards energy independence and a greener future.: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 2:17PM by PIB Delhi

    India has achieved a historic milestone by surpassing 100 GW of installed solar power capacity, reinforcing its position as a global leader in renewable energy. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the nation’s commitment to a cleaner, greener future and marks a significant step toward realizing its ambitious target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030 set by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

    Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi said, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India’s energy journey over the past ten years has been historic and inspiring. Initiatives like solar panels, solar parks and rooftop solar projects have brought about revolutionary changes. As a result, today India has successfully achieved the target of 100 GW of solar energy production. In the field of green energy, India is not only becoming self-reliant but is also showing the world a new path”.

    Union Minister Joshi said that this achievement is powered by the relentless commitment to clear and greener future. The Minister added that PM SuryaGhar Muft Bijli Yojana is making rooftop solar a household reality and is a game-changer in sustainable energy, empowering every home with clean power.

    Unprecedented Growth in Solar Sector

    India’s solar power sector has witnessed an extraordinary 3450 % increase in capacity over the past decade, rising from 2.82 GW in 2014 to 100 GW in 2025. As of January 31, 2025, India’s total solar capacity installed stands at 100.33 GW, with 84.10 GW under implementation and an additional 47.49 GW under tendering. The country’s hybrid and round-the-clock (RTC) renewable energy projects are also advancing rapidly, with 64.67 GW under implementation and tendered, bringing the grand total of solar and hybrid projects to 296.59 GW.

    Solar energy remains the dominant contributor to India’s renewable energy growth, accounting for 47% of the total installed renewable energy capacity. In 2024, record-breaking 24.5 GW of solar capacity was added reflecting a more than two-fold increase in solar installations compared to 2023. Last year also saw the installation of 18.5 GW of utility-scale solar capacity, a nearly 2.8 times increase compared to 2023. Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh are among the top-performing states, contributing significantly to India’s total utility-scale solar installations.

    The rooftop solar sector in India witnessed remarkable growth in 2024, with 4.59 GW of new capacity installed, reflecting a 53% increase compared to 2023. A key driver of this growth has been the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, launched in 2024, which is now nearing 9 lakh rooftop solar installations, enabling households across the country to embrace clean energy solutions.

    India has also made significant strides in solar manufacturing. In 2014, the country had a limited solar module production capacity of just 2 GW. Over the past decade, this has surged to 60 GW in 2024, establishing India as a global leader in solar manufacturing. With continued policy support, India is on track to achieve a solar module production capacity of 100 GW by 2030.

    Under the guidance of Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has been implementing key initiatives to scale up renewable energy capacity in India. This 100 GW milestone in solar energy underscores India’s role as a renewable energy powerhouse, ensuring clean, sustainable, and affordable energy access for millions while shaping a self-reliant energy future.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 22 landlords of subdivided units under regulated tenancies convicted of contravening relevant statutory requirements

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    22 landlords of subdivided units under regulated tenancies convicted of contravening relevant statutory requirements
    22 landlords of subdivided units under regulated tenancies convicted of contravening relevant statutory requirements
    ******************************************************************************************

         Twenty-two landlords of subdivided units (SDUs), who contravened Part IVA of the Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) Ordinance (Cap. 7) (the Ordinance), pleaded guilty and were fined a total of $42,000 today (February 7) at the Eastern Magistrates’ Courts. Since the Ordinance came into force, the Rating and Valuation Department (RVD) has successfully prosecuted 552 cases involving a total of 473 SDU landlords, with fines ranging from $400 to $34,800, amounting to a total of $1,307,010.      The offences of these 22 landlords include (1) failing to submit a Notice of Tenancy (Form AR2) to the Commissioner of Rating and Valuation within 60 days after the term of the regulated tenancy commenced; (2) failing to produce copies of the bills and provide an account in writing when requiring the tenant to pay for the reimbursement of the apportioned water and/or electricity charges; (3) failing to provide the tenant with a rent receipt; and (4) requesting the tenant to pay money other than the types permitted under the Ordinance (including requiring the tenant to pay an amount of rent for the second-term tenancy exceeding the maximum amount of rent permitted under the Ordinance). Two joint landlords each committed five offences under (4) and were each fined $4,500.     The RVD earlier discovered that the landlords failed to comply with the relevant requirements under the Ordinance. Upon an in-depth investigation and evidence collection, the RVD prosecuted against the landlords.      A spokesman for the RVD reiterated that SDU landlords must comply with the relevant requirements under the Ordinance, including prohibiting landlords from doing any act calculated to interfere with the peace or comfort of members of the tenant’s household, with the intention of causing the tenant to give up occupation of the SDU; or requiring the tenant to pay an amount of rent for the second-term tenancy exceeding the maximum amount of rent permitted under the Ordinance, and also reminded SDU tenants of their rights under the Ordinance, including a four-year (i.e. two years plus two years) security of tenure. He also stressed that the RVD will continue to take resolute enforcement action against any contraventions of the Ordinance. Apart from following up on reported cases, the RVD has been adopting a multipronged approach to proactively identify, investigate and follow up on cases concerning landlords who are suspected of contravening the Ordinance. In particular, the RVD has been requiring landlords of regulated tenancies to provide information and reference documents of their tenancies for checking whether the landlords concerned have complied with the requirements of the Ordinance. If a landlord, without reasonable excuse, refuses to provide the relevant information or neglects the RVD’s request, the landlord commits an offence and is liable to a maximum fine at level 3 ($10,000) and to imprisonment for three months. Depending on the actual circumstances, and having regard to the information and evidence collected, the RVD will take appropriate actions on individual cases, including instigating prosecution against suspected contraventions of the Ordinance.      To help curb illegal acts as soon as possible, members of the public should report to the RVD promptly any suspected cases of contravening the relevant requirements. Reporting can be made through the telephone hotline (2150 8303), by email (enquiries@rvd.gov.hk), by fax (2116 4920), by post (15/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon), or in person (visiting the Tenancy Services Section office of the RVD at Room 3816-22, 38/F, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, and please call 2150 8303 to make an appointment). Furthermore, the RVD has provided a form (Form AR4) (www.rvd.gov.hk/doc/en/forms/ar4.pdf) on its website to facilitate SDU tenants’ reporting to the RVD.      The RVD reminds that pursuant to the Ordinance, a regulated cycle of regulated tenancies is to comprise two consecutive regulated tenancies (i.e. the first-term tenancy and second-term tenancy) for an SDU, and the term of each regulated tenancy is two years. A tenant of a first-term tenancy for an SDU is entitled to be granted a second-term tenancy of the regulated cycle, thus enjoying a total of four years of security of tenure. Since the first batch of regulated tenancies has already approached their second-term tenancies, the RVD has started a new round of publicity and education work in order to assist SDU landlords and tenants to understand the important matters pertaining to the second-term tenancy, and procedures that need to be followed about two months prior to the commencement of the purported second-term tenancy. In addition, the RVD has started issuing letters enclosing relevant information to the landlords and tenants concerned of regulated tenancies in batches, according to the expiry time of their first-term tenancies, to remind them about their respective obligations and rights under the Ordinance. These landlords and tenants may also visit the dedicated page for the second-term tenancy on the RVD’s website (www.rvd.gov.hk/en/tenancy_matters/second_term_tenancy.html) for the relevant information, including a concise guide, brochures, tutorial videos and frequently asked questions. SDU landlords and tenants are also advised to familiarise themselves with the relevant statutory requirements and maintain close communication regarding the second-term tenancy for handling the matters properly and in a timely manner according to the Ordinance.      For enquiries related to regulated tenancies, please call the telephone hotline (2150 8303) or visit the RVD’s webpage (www.rvd.gov.hk/en/our_services/part_iva.html) for the relevant information.

     
    Ends/Friday, February 7, 2025Issued at HKT 16:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NITI Aayog Hosts a Conclave on ‘Towards Viksit Bharat@2047: Strengthening Economy, National Security, Global Partnerships, and Law’

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 12:12PM by PIB Delhi

    NITI Aayog organized a conclave titled “Towards Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Strengthening Economy, National Security, Global Partnerships, and Law” on 6th February 2025 at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi. The conclave saw participation of the Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, Members of NITI Aayog, the CEO of NITI Aayog, and keynote addresses from the Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India and the Secretary of the Ministry of Defence. The event featured a lineup of panel discussions, keynotes, and deliberations, addressing critical themes essential to India’s development journey over the next two decades.

    A key highlight was the panel discussion on Economic Growth and Global Competitiveness by 2047, where distinguished experts from policy, academia, and industry examined India’s trajectory toward becoming a global economic powerhouse. Discussions emphasized the importance of regulatory reforms, innovation, infrastructure expansion, and India’s strategic role in global trade. Panelists stressed the need for increased private sector investment in research and development, fiscal consolidation, and integration into global supply chains. Sovereign credit ratings, energy security, and access to critical raw materials were identified as essential for long-term economic resilience. Education, skill development, and infrastructure investments were recognized as crucial for leveraging India’s demographic advantage. The consensus was that bold reforms, sustainable energy strategies, and a leadership role in global trade would be key to achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    Another significant session, Strategic Partnerships for Development, focused on India’s diplomatic strategies in securing alliances with both the Global South and North. The discussion highlighted India’s economic resilience and its ability to navigate geopolitical trade disruptions. Experts underscored India’s leadership in renewable energy and stressed the importance of international cooperation in critical mineral resources. Trade liberalization, tariff reductions, and technological collaborations were explored as potential avenues to enhance India’s global trade standing. The session also emphasized the role of digital public infrastructure in fostering multilateral and bilateral partnerships, while legal reforms were acknowledged as pivotal in attracting investment and improving ease of doing business.

    In the session on Supply Chain Resilience and National Defence, panelists addressed practical solutions for mitigating supply chain disruptions and the role of public-private partnerships in national defence. Discussions highlighted the need for a robust logistical supply chain and its impact on both military and civilian operations. A key takeaway was the distinction between the Just in Time model in civil supply chains and the Just in Case model employed in military logistics. Experts deliberated on the role of legal frameworks in ensuring efficient procurement, stocking, and supply chain management. Proposals were made for enhancing procurement procedures, fostering public-private collaborations, and refining organizational structures to streamline defence supply chains. Cybersecurity emerged as a critical factor in safeguarding supply chain integrity and ensuring operational efficiency.

    The conclave provided valuable insights into India’s economic trajectory, strategic partnerships, and national security preparedness. The discussions reinforced the nation’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth, paving the way for the vision of the Prime Minister of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Poland: EIB supports sustainable development of medium-sized cities

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB loaned over PLN 1 bln (ca. €274 mln) to Kielce, Radom, Rybnik and Chorzów in 2024.
    • Talks with other medium-sized Polish cities are under way.
    • In Kielce, EIB financing will underpin investment in urban infrastructure, transport and environmental projects.
    • EU bank backed sustainable development of Polish cities and regions with €7.89 bln since 2022.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) approved PLN 224 million in financing to support sustainable urban development of Poland’s south-eastern city of Kielce. The first agreement signed with the city under the framework loan covers PLN 112 million and will underpin investment in urban infrastructure and transport, as well as environmental and climate policies.

    “Promoting dynamic development of medium-sized cities is one of the EIB’s key lines of action. As the EU’s climate bank, the EIB finances upgrades to and expansion of top-notch urban infrastructure, as well as climate and environmental projects, especially in cohesion regions. Last year, the EIB allocated almost €2.4 billion to sustainable development of regions and cities in Poland,” EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska said during a visit to Kielce. “Thanks to the EIB loan, Kielce will be able to enhance city greeneries, transport network and sports facilities, carrying out investments that bring tangible benefits to inhabitants. Through this partnership with Kielce, and similar ones with Rybnik, Chorzów and Radom, the EIB contributes to improving the quality of life for people in Poland, including those living outside the largest centres.”

    Long-term, beneficial financing from the EIB will allow Kielce to co-finance projects that also receive direct grants from the European Union budget, helping with their effective absorption in Poland. An agreement for the second tranche of financing for the city is expected next.

    “Kielce will use this funding as the required own contribution to projects co-financed externally. We envisage the modernisation of a central city square, the establishment of a business incubator and major investment in public transport, including a new bus fleet. The city’s total investment plan amounts to PLN 761 mln,” said Kielce Mayor Agata Wojda.

    Multibillion-euro support for Polish cities, including medium-sized ones

    The EIB has signed 24 financing agreements with cities and municipal companies totalling over €1.7 billion since 2022. Including infrastructure financing and intermediated loans, the bank’s support to sustainable investment of cities and regions has reached €7.89 bln in the last three years. Alongside big cities, beneficiaries have also included the medium-sized ones with between 100,000 and 250,000 inhabitants. Last year, the EIB granted framework loans totalling over PLN 1 billion to Kielce, Radom, Rybnik and Chorzów.

    “Working together with the EIB is a real step forward in the continued sustainable development of Chorzów. This EIB loan will help the city make strategic investments in key areas such as urban infrastructure and environmental protection. Used effectively, the funding will help improve quality of life for our city’s inhabitants and make Chorzów more competitive on the regional map,” said Chorzów Mayor Szymon Michałek.

    In Radom, EIB funds are being put to use to build nurseries and social housing, create green spaces, promote sustainable urban mobility and improve energy efficiency of public buildings.

    Radom Mayor Radosław Witkowski, said: “Partnering with the EIB will provide economic benefits and help our city to keep on developing, which is what our residents expect.”

    According to Piotr Kuczera, the mayor of Rybnik, EIB financing is making the city “greener and a nicer place to live.”

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the EU, and the Capital Markets Union.   

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024. Nearly two-thirds of which was allocated to tackle the climate crisis and protect the environment. Almost half of the invested funds were allocated in cohesion regions, while €17.2 billion was earmarked specifically for the sustainable development of cities and regions. In Poland, EIB support for economic and territorial cohesion last year amounted to €5 billion, while investments in the development of cities and regions reached almost €2.4 billion. The EIB Group will soon share the full results of its activities in Poland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Serial burglars sentenced to twenty months in prison for thefts throughout Redbridge

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two thieves arrested a mere 150 metres away from a house they burgled have been sentenced to 20 months in prison, following an investigation which linked them to multiple offences in Redbridge.

    On the evening of Sunday, 15 December officers responded to a break-in on Mansted Gardens, Chadwell Heath. In just half an hour, the responding officers blocked off escape routes, forcing the offenders to flee onto the High Road. This resulted in a chase on foot which ended with the pair in handcuffs.

    Upon searching the suspects, officers found two gold rings, two gold bangles and three gold necklaces, which were missing from the property.

    Further enquiries then enabled officers to place the two men at the scene of other break-ins, including an incident at a different address on Mansted Gardens, where a safe containing £25,000 worth of gold and £3,000 cash was stolen.

    Geani Bogonos, aged 42 (18.05.1982) of Freshwell Avenue, Chadwell Health and Vasile Filip, aged 26 (31.08.1998) of Southend Road, East Ham were sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Monday, 3 February after pleading guilty at their first appearance hearing.

    PC David Izard, who was the officer in charge of the investigation, said:

    “Burglaries are a huge intrusion of privacy and have a lasting impact on communities. As highlighted here, our officers responded at speed and showed real bravery to track, chase and detain the suspects.

    “The team then conducted a thorough investigation which showed Bogonos and Filip to be serial offenders – and ultimately led to them being taken off our streets.

    “This is all part of the Met’s ongoing response to burglary. Our local community policing teams continue to conduct patrols in hot spot areas to provide a high visibility presence as well as crime prevention advice. If you do have any concerns please speak to officers or contact your local team, details of which are available via our website.”

    Bogonos was convicted of two burglaries, with a further three offences taken into consideration. Filip was convicted of one burglary with three further offences taken into consideration. All offences taken into account occurred throughout Redbridge between October and November 2024.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coming up next week at the London Assembly W/C 10 February

    Source: Mayor of London

    PUBLIC MEETINGS

    Monday 10 February

    Major sporting events in London

    Economy, Culture and Skills Committee – Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 2pm

    Analysis from 2021 by London & Partners found that the total economic value generated by the 305 major sporting events held in London between 2017 and 2020 was £1.03 billion.

    The Economy, Culture and Skills Committee will meet to discuss the economic impact of major sporting events in London, looking at the role of the Mayor in bringing more sporting events to the city.

    The guests are:

    Panel 1: 2:00pm-3:30pm:

    • Nick Bitel, Chief Executive Officer, London Marathon Group
    • Mark Camley, Executive Director of Park and Venues, London Legacy Development Corporation
    • Esther Britten MBE, Head of Events and External Affairs, UK Sport
    • Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader, London Borough of Brent

    Panel 2: 3:35pm-5:00pm:

    • Howard Dawber, Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth
    • Katie Morrison, Interim Assistant Director, External Relations, Greater London Authority (GLA)
    • James Fitzgerald, Host City Programmes Director, GLA
    • Rose Wangen-Jones, Managing Director, Marketing, Destination & Commercial, London & Partners

    MEDIA CONTACT: Anthony Smyth on 07763 251727 / [email protected]

    Tuesday 11 February

    Planning and tall buildings

    Planning and Regeneration Committee – Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    A lot of work looking at the experiences of residents in tall buildings originated in the 1960s and 1970s and focused on social housing. In recent decades, there has been a shift in the types of homes being delivered by tall buildings towards private accommodation.

    The Planning and Regeneration Committee will ask the Deputy Mayor for Planning, and guests from the Greater London Authority (GLA) and London Boroughs about how they set policies and take decisions around the delivery of tall buildings in London.

    The guests are:

    Panel 1: 10am – 11.15am:

    • Michael Ritchie, Place Shaping Manager, London Borough of Tower Hamlets
    • Michael Forrester, Head of Development Management, London Borough of Lewisham

    Panel 2: 11.30am – 12.30pm:

    • Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service
    • Alan Smithies, Principal Strategic Planner, GLA

    MEDIA CONTACT: Josh Hunt on 07763 252310 / [email protected]

    Wednesday 12 February

    Q&A with the Met Commissioner

    Police and Crime Committee – Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    In the Met Police Commissioner’s December report for the London Policing Board, it was highlighted that a series of “tough choices” may have to be implemented to meet the expected budget gap of £450m in the Met’s 2025-26 budget.

    The Police and Crime Committee will question the Met Police Commissioner on these “tough choices”, whether they will save the amount of money required, and how the Met will secure further funding to minimise these cuts. The Committee will also explore grooming gangs and stop and search. 

    The guests are:

    • Sir Mark Rowley, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police
    • Kaya Comer-Shwartz, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime

    MEDIA CONTACT: Anthony Smyth on 07763 251727 / [email protected]

    Thursday 13 February

    London Fire Brigade Plenary

    All Assembly meeting – Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    What are the key priorities for the London Fire Brigade this year?

    Assembly Members will ask questions about building safety, Lithium-ion battery powered E-bikes and E-scooters, EV buses fire risk, home fire safety visits and more.

    The guests are:

    • Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service
    • Andy Roe KFSM, London Fire Brigade Commissioner

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832 918 / [email protected] 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev and Lipetsk Region Governor Igor Artamonov discussed the development of the agro-industrial complex in the region

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with Lipetsk Region Governor Igor Artamonov. The meeting discussed issues of developing the agro-industrial complex, ecology and nature management.

    Working meeting of Dmitry Patrushev with the Governor of Lipetsk region Igor Artamonov

    February 7, 2025

    Working meeting of Dmitry Patrushev with the Governor of Lipetsk region Igor Artamonov

    February 7, 2025

    Working meeting of Dmitry Patrushev with the Governor of Lipetsk region Igor Artamonov

    February 7, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Working meeting of Dmitry Patrushev with the Governor of Lipetsk region Igor Artamonov

    Dmitry Patrushev noted that Lipetsk Region invariably remains among the leaders in the development of the agro-industrial complex. The region ranks first in Russia in the production of greenhouse vegetables in agricultural organizations and processed potatoes.

    Igor Artamonov emphasized that the Lipetsk region is attractive to investors. The volume of invested funds from 2019 to 2024 amounted to more than 200 billion rubles, more than 4 thousand jobs were created. The volume of agricultural exports of the region has increased by 2.5 times since 2019, which allowed the region to enter the top ten subjects of the Russian Federation in terms of export volume of agricultural products.

    The meeting raised issues of education. There are 18 agricultural classes in the Lipetsk Region. 80% of their graduates become students of universities and colleges specializing in agricultural fields. The region has opened the first “Agrokvantorium” in Russia, where children get acquainted with agricultural machinery.

    The meeting also discussed issues of environmental management. Lipetsk Region has successfully completed the implementation of the national project “Ecology” and shows good results in the field of solid municipal waste management – 53% of MSW is processed at disposal facilities.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Palestine & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:

    – Secretary-General
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Sudan
    – Central African Republic
    – Air Pollution
    – Female Genital Mutilation
    – Financial Contribution

    SECRETARY-GENERAL
    This morning, in a press encounter, the Secretary-General made a special appeal for peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, ahead of a summit tomorrow with the leaders from the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community in Tanzania. He added that next week in Addis Ababa, he will take part in a Summit-level meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council where the crisis will be front and centre.
    The Secretary-General said his message is clear: Silence the guns. Stop the escalation. Respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Uphold international human rights law and international humanitarian law.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    The Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, accompanied a UN aid convoy into the Gaza Strip today, where the UN and its partners continue responding to immense needs as part of a prepared scaling up of our operations.
    In northern Gaza, Mr. Fletcher toured two hospitals – Al Shifa in Gaza City and Al Awda in Jabalya – where he met with patients, staff and management. Leaving the Al Awda hospital, Mr. Fletcher spoke with survivors and returnees in Jabalya who are trying to rebuild their lives amid the rubble.
    The Under-Secretary-General also visited the only operational water well in North Gaza governorate. This well, which is run by theUnite d Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) serves as a crucial lifeline for clean water, given the extensive destruction of Gaza’s water infrastructure. From the north of the Strip, the Under-Secretary-General crossed the Netzarim area into Deir al Balah in central Gaza.
    Throughout his visit, Mr. Fletcher held discussions with humanitarian workers from local and international non-governmental organizations, as well as UN agencies, stressing the need to seize the opportunities presented by the ceasefire to sustain and expand relief efforts.
    Partners of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) supporting water, sanitation and hygiene services report that they are distributing 2,500 cubic metres of safe drinking water daily across Gaza and North Gaza governorates, serving 411,000 people. One of our partners is also providing cleaning services at 17 displacement sites in northern Gaza, benefiting nearly 12,000 people.
    Water, sanitation and hygiene partners are carrying out assessments in locations across the Strip to repair water wells, install dosing pumps, and set up water filling points.
    While some repairs are already underway, further progress hinges on teams being able to clear debris and carry out assessments of explosive hazards.
    Meanwhile in the West Bank, OCHA reports that Israeli forces’ operations are intensifying in Jenin, Tulkarm and Tubas, severely restricting Palestinians’ access to essential assistance, including water, food, medicine and supplies for infants.
    In Tubas governorate, Israeli forces have been operating in the El Far’a refugee camp for five consecutive days. They have imposed a curfew, reportedly prohibiting residents from leaving their homes. They also bulldozed roads and damaged water networks, forcing residents to rely on collecting rainwater.

    SUDAN
    The Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, today warned that South Kordofan and Blue Nile States are on the brink of catastrophe, as the violence there continues to escalate at an alarming rate.
    As of yesterday, the civilian death toll following recent shelling in South Kordofan’s capital Kadugli had increased to 80, with some three dozen others injured.
    In a statement, Ms. Nkweta-Salami condemned the reported use of women and children as human shields in Kadugli, as well as the obstruction of humanitarian aid and the detention of civilians, including children.
    The western Nuba Mountains, which extend into South Kordofan and West Kordofan States, are among the areas in which famine has been identified by the Famine Review Committee of the International Food Security Phase Classification system, or IPC.
    Ms. Nkweta-Salami stressed that humanitarian needs also remain critical in Blue Nile State, amid reports of mass mobilization for conflict. She also called on all sides to the conflict in Sudan to de-escalate tensions, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, and allow humanitarian organizations safe and unrestricted access to those in desperate need.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=06+February+2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MYbKGAp7Y0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE) Chair’s letter

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    This letter sets out the government’s expectations and priorities for LEASE over the remainder of 2025.

    Applies to England and Wales

    Documents

    Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE) Chair’s letter

    PDF, 196 KB, 5 pages

    Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE) Chair’s letter

    HTML

    Details

    The Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook, has written to LEASE’s Chair, Martin Boyd, to set out his priorities for the Service in their role delivering advice to leaseholders and park home owners.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 February 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland resident found guilty of fly-tipping

    Source: City of Sunderland

    A Sunderland resident has been left with a court bill of nearly £1,000 after being caught on CCTV fly-tipping household waste and three sofas at the rear of his property.

    Malik Yansane, of Athol Road, was found guilty following a trial at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court of offences under Section 33(1)(a) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

    The court heard how shortly after 8am on Friday 28 October 2022, Mr Yansane was observed on CCTV removing waste from his property and leaving it in the street. A Street Watch CCTV camera had been set up by the council as part of ongoing work to deter fly-tipping.

    Despite clear warning signs about CCTV surveillance, Mr. Yansane deliberately left three sofas directly beneath a post-mounted camera monitoring the area.

    The court heard how, following a report of fly-tipping, Sunderland City Council’s Neighbourhood Enforcement Team attended the rear of Athol Road, where they discovered a significant illegal waste deposit. Alongside the three sofas, officers found a child’s bouncer chair, a plastic container, black bin bags, and boxes, all discarded in plain sight of the camera.

    Officers swiftly launched an investigation, searching the waste for evidence before arranging its immediate removal.

    As part of an investigation, Mr Yansane attended an interview with council officers and confirmed it was him on the camera evidence and he admitted to illegally dumping waste behind his property.

    Mr Yansane was offered the opportunity to pay a £300 Fixed Penalty Notice instead of facing prosecution. He received the notice on Wednesday 18 January 2023 and was told to pay within ten days.

    On Tuesday 31 January and Wednesday 8 February 2023, he received postal reminders that if he didn’t pay, legal action would be considered. The penalty was not paid and the council began court proceedings.

    The case was heard on Tuesday 4 February 2025 and Mr Yansane, who was representing himself, conceded that he had admitted in interview and that he had placed the items in the back lane and did not have any permissions, permits or licence to do so. He had also made no arrangements for anyone to collect the items and he had himself previously reported fly-tipping near his property.

    Magistrates found him guilty of fly-tipping and ordered him to pay a £300 fine, £245.21 to cover clean-up costs, and £450 for legal and investigation fees. In total, Mr Yansane was ordered to pay £995.21.

    Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Net Zero, Councillor Lindsey Leonard said: “This case shows that fly-tipping will not be tolerated. If you illegally dump waste, we will investigate, take legal action, and bring offenders to court.

    “Sunderland City Council is dedicated to keeping our community clean, and we encourage residents to dispose of their waste properly.”

    Residents are encouraged to report any fly-tipping or waste disposal issues directly to Sunderland City Council. You can do this online at www.sunderland.gov.uk/report-it or by calling 0191 520 5550.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –