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  • MIL-OSI Global: Who are immigrants to the US, where do they come from and where do they live?

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jennifer Van Hook, Distinguished Professor of Sociology and Demography, Penn State

    Immigrants to the U.S. increasingly arrive like these people, seeking asylum at a formal border crossing, rather than trying to sneak across the border. Carlos Moreno/NurPhoto via Getty Images

    Undocumented immigration is a key issue in American politics, but it can be hard to nail down the basic facts about who these immigrants are, where they live and how their numbers have changed in the past few decades.

    I study the demographics of the U.S. immigrant population and have seen how the data has changed over time. Here are some basics to set the stage as President Donald Trump begins his second term in office vowing to crack down hard on immigrants, including by conducting mass deportations.

    Immigration status

    My analysis of the Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey data, in collaboration with the Migration Policy Institute, a nonpartisan nonprofit immigration research group, finds that as of the middle of 2023, approximately 51 million foreign-born people lived in the United States.

    Most immigrants are in the U.S. legally. About 49% have become U.S. citizens by a process known as naturalization. Another 19% hold lawful permanent resident status and are eligible to become U.S. citizens through naturalization. Still another 5% are in the country on temporary visas, like those for international students, diplomats and their families, and seasonal or temporary workers.

    The remaining 27% – around 13.7 million people – are outside those categories and therefore generally considered to be undocumented.

    My analysis shows that the number of undocumented immigrants held steady at around 11 million between 2007 and 2019. In the next four years, the numbers increased by nearly 3 million. This recent growth is mostly attributable to large increases in border crossings by migrants from Central and South America who were seeking asylum or other forms of humanitarian relief. Starting in June 2024, however, the number of people entering across the U.S.-Mexico border fell back to normal levels when the Biden administration implemented the Secure the Border rule, which suspends asylum applications at the border when crossings reach a seven-day average of 2,500.

    These changes were accompanied by changes in the undocumented migration process itself. In the past, undocumented immigrants often entered the country by slipping undetected across the U.S. border with Mexico. But increased border enforcement made the journey more dangerous and expensive.

    Instead of paying smugglers or risking their lives in the desert, growing numbers of undocumented immigrants now either directly approach immigration officials at airports or land-border crossings and seek asylum in the U.S. Others are initially admitted to the country legally on a temporary tourist, student or work visa – but then overstay the time period for which they have permission.

    Additionally, growing numbers of undocumented immigrants occupy what might be called a “liminal” or “in-between” status. The Migration Policy Institute analysis estimates this encompasses a range of groups as of the middle of 2023, including:

    • About 2.1 million people awaiting a decision on their asylum claims.
    • 521,000 parolees, allowed into the U.S. for humanitarian or national security reasons, like those paroled recently from Afghanistan and Ukraine.
    • 654,000 people who hold temporary protected status because it would be unsafe for them to return home due to armed conflict, natural disasters and other emergencies.
    • 562,000 who are protected by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program because they were brought to the United States as children by their parents.

    The report estimates that just over one-quarter of undocumented immigrants currently occupy this type of “in-between” status. These immigrants are protected from deportation. Some even have a legal right to work in the U.S. Yet they do not possess a durable legal immigration status, and their rights could be threatened by policy changes.

    While Trump says he wants to deport as many as 11 million immigrants, analyses published by The New York Times and The Washington Post indicate that it may be difficult to remove many of them under existing U.S. law. The one group that is easy to remove – those with a criminal record – is relatively small, numbering about 650,000.

    Shifting countries of origin

    Since 1980, Mexicans have been the largest single national origin group in the United States. I found that 10.9 million Mexican-born individuals were living in the country in 2023, making up 23% of all immigrants. The second-largest group, immigrants from India, numbered just 2.9 million, or 6% of all immigrants living in the U.S.

    However, immigrants’ origins have been shifting away from Mexico.

    With the onset of the Great Recession of 2007-2009, work opportunities in U.S. construction and manufacturing evaporated. Many Mexican laborers had been working in construction at the time but went back to Mexico when the U.S. housing market collapsed.

    At that same time, Mexico’s economic conditions improved, its population growth slowed, and many would-be migrants opted to stay home. For the first time in decades, from 2007 to 2022 the number of Mexicans who returned home exceeded the number coming to the United States.

    This trend was especially pronounced among undocumented immigrants. I found that Mexicans made up about 51% of the undocumented immigrants who arrived in the country 10 or more years ago. Central Americans made up 20%, and the remaining originated from other regions.

    However, undocumented migrants now come from across the globe. Among undocumented immigrants who arrived within the past 10 years, 19% came from Mexico. Larger shares came from Central America and South America. While some of these new migrants seek work, others flee crime, economic and ecological disasters, and political persecution in their home countries.

    Duration of residence

    Most immigrants, whether they are in the U.S. legally or illegally, have lived in the United States for many years. Just under half of foreign-born individuals have lived in the country for two decades or more, and more than two-thirds have lived in the country for at least 10 years. Only 20% arrived within the past five years.

    This is a dramatic change from the early 2000s, when less than 10% of immigrants had been in the U.S. for more than two decades, and more than one-third had arrived within the previous five years.

    That means many of the people who are likely to be targeted for deportation in the coming months are settled, long-term members of American society.

    Place of residence

    As of 2023, 6.6 million immigrants reported on the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey that they moved to the United States in the past five years.

    However, the effects of these new immigrants on American communities has been uneven. Although most communities are more racially and ethnically diverse now than in the past, the numbers of newly arrived immigrants are relatively low in most places.

    Fifteen states host fewer than 20,000 immigrants, and 33 states are home to fewer than 100,000. In contrast, over half of new arrivals live in just five states: California, Florida, Illinois, New York and Texas are the home of over half of new arrivals yet have only 37% of the U.S. population. Other states such as Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Washington also are home to large and growing immigrant populations.

    The U.S. immigrant population is changing rapidly. In the early years of the 21st century, Mexican immigrants dominated undocumented immigration flows to the United States. Decades later, many of these people continue to live in the country.

    In the past four years, however, the flow of undocumented people increased dramatically. These new arrivals tend to come from troubled nations in Central and South America, many of whom are protected from deportation and have a legal right to work in the U.S. Altogether, most undocumented immigrants either have lived in the country for decades or have legal protections.

    Neither of these groups fit the profile of undocumented immigrants who are typically targeted for deportation.

    Jennifer Van Hook receives funding from the National Institutes of Health. She is a nonresident fellow of the Migration Policy Institute.

    – ref. Who are immigrants to the US, where do they come from and where do they live? – https://theconversation.com/who-are-immigrants-to-the-us-where-do-they-come-from-and-where-do-they-live-247430

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Grassley Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Provide Rural Hospitals with Financial Stability and Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Bipartisan bill would extend key Medicare rural hospital programs
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), members of the Senate Finance Committee, introduced the bipartisan Rural Hospital Support Act, legislation to prevent rural hospital closures by extending and modernizing critical Medicare programs. The Senators’ legislation would permanently extend the Medicare-Dependent Hospital (MDH) program to ensure eligible rural hospitals are reimbursed for their costs. The bill would also permanently extend the Low-Volume Hospital (LVH) program to level the playing field for rural hospitals whose operating costs often outpace their revenue.  
    Rural hospitals provide critical care for patients, many of whom rely on Medicare and Medicaid. These hospitals also serve as economic anchors – accounting for around 14% of total employment in rural areas. 
    “Rural hospitals provide essential care to patients in rural communities, including to folks who rely on Medicare and Medicaid. In Vermont, rural hospitals are also job creators and economic drivers. But across the country, rural hospitals are struggling to stay open, and they need a lifeline,” said Senator Welch. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure rural hospitals are reimbursed for resources they need to continue delivering vital care in our rural communities.” 
    “As a lifelong resident of rural Iowa, I know the importance of having access to health care services close to home. In addition to providing life-saving care, rural hospitals are a source of economic security for many rural communities,” said Senator Grassley. “Our bipartisan bill will ensure the continuity of these vital programs and help keep rural hospitals’ doors open.”  
    The MDH and LVH programs have supported rural communities for decades. The programs were last extended as part of the Continuing Resolution on December 20, 2024, and would expire on March 31, 2025, without congressional action.  
    The Rural Hospital Support Act does not change other rural hospital Medicare programs including critical access hospitals (CAH), rural referral centers (RRC), Rural Community Hospital Demonstration, or the new voluntary rural emergency hospitals (REH). Each of these rural programs offer unique flexibilities to ensure health care services are accessible in rural America. Additionally, the bill would also update the rebasing year for Sole Community Hospitals (SCH) and MDHs to allow hospitals to tie reimbursement estimates to more recent trends in costs.    
    In addition to Sens. Welch and Grassley, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.).  
    The Rural Hospital Support Act has garnered support from national stakeholders, including the Alliance for Rural Hospital Access, American Hospital Association, Iowa Hospital Association, MercyOne, National Rural Health Association, and UnityPoint Health. 
    Learn more about the Rural Hospital Support Act. 
    Read the full text of the bill. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New infrastructure research can aid disaster preparedness

    Source: New Zealand Infrastructure Commission

    New research from the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, Te Waihanga shows how insurance can help us to manage natural hazard risks and choose how to prepare infrastructure for a changing climate.
    “New Zealand has experienced some significant natural events in recent years,” says the Commission’s General Manager Strategy, Peter Nunns. “In dollar terms alone, we’ve seen at least $10 billion in infrastructure rebuilding costs from two large earthquakes and two storms since 2012. And that doesn’t of course include the impact of these events on people’s lives and businesses or the economy.”
    Nunns says that not only is the likelihood and size of events such as storms expected to grow in coming years, but the replacement cost of infrastructure is growing too.
    “On an inflation-adjusted, per-person basis, public infrastructure is now worth 70% more that it was in 1990. So, the cost of replacing it after a natural disaster is rising at the same time as the likelihood of a disaster is rising. It’s more important than ever to make good decisions about when and how to reduce risks and minimise costs.”
    The Commission’s report Invest or insure? Preparing infrastructure for natural hazards looks at how insurance can help us decide if, when and by how much to invest in infrastructure adaptation or resilience.
    The report shows that insurance prices rise as risks to assets, like the chance of flooding, and the cost to repair or re-build go up. Investing to make infrastructure more resilient or adapt to changing risks can bring down the cost of insurance. When infrastructure providers measure their risks and price them through insurance, they can make better risk management decisions by looking at whether the cost of resilience investments are matched by benefits from lower insurance premiums.
    Providers must also factor in other costs – such as risks to public safety or damage caused by the failure of their infrastructure. These economic and social consequences can also be added to the providers’ insurance / resilience appraisal.
    However, Nunns says that overall New Zealand has an incomplete picture of the hazards it faces, the risks these pose for our infrastructure, and how these are being managed. For instance, the last time a review of insurance coverage for public assets was undertaken – over 10 years ago – it found that less than half of public assets were insured.
    “This is challenging, as our research shows that, in addition to helping to smooth out the costs of responding to natural hazards, insurance can also help infrastructure providers make better decisions about when and how to reduce risk and minimise costs.”
    “Risks change over time. A risk management decision made yesterday might not be the best decision for tomorrow. It’s important that infrastructure providers consider this in their long-term asset management planning.”
    Report key findings
    – There is no single best approach to managing natural hazard risk to infrastructure. Instead, the optimal approach will vary depending on many factors, including likelihood and consequence of the hazard, and the relative cost of different options in different situations.
    – To manage risk well, infrastructure providers need to have a good understanding of their assets and the risks to which they are exposed. They will also need the capability to assess their options and optimise their response to risks from natural hazards. However, at a national level, we lack comprehensive and consistent hazard data for providers to use to assess their risk.
    – Quantifying risk and/or pricing it through insurance premiums, can help clarify the optimal risk management approach for infrastructure assets. Optimal resilience investments should reduce risk management costs, compared to continuing to pay risk related insurance premiums. When resilience investments are more costly than insuring risk, they may not be warranted.
    – The optimal level of resilience will depend on the relative cost of resilience investments compared to the expected cost of (and the benefits we get from) the assets being protected. We can increase the case for resilience investment by focusing on keeping infrastructure delivery costs down. Conversely, rising infrastructure delivery costs will erode the case for resilience investments.
    Background notes
    – Our understanding of both the probability and severity of natural hazards continues to improve as scientific research progresses. Improving our scientific understanding and investigating hazards in more detail sometimes results in increased estimates of risk. For example, pre-2021 modelling estimated that there was a 30% chance of a major earthquake on the Alpine Fault over the next 50 years. More recent research has estimated the probability to be much higher, with a 75% probability of occurring over the next 50 years.
    – In some cases, the underlying risks are also changing as climate change is expected to make severe weather events both more frequent and more severe.
    – In recent decades, New Zealand has experienced annual reported losses equal to almost 0.6% of gross domestic product (GDP). These losses mainly reflect damage to residential property and businesses, as well as damage to infrastructure.
    – Already, natural disasters cost New Zealanders more as a share of GDP than anyone else except Chileans. Some hazards will grow significantly in their frequency and intensity as our climate changes over the next 30-80 years.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Parke County Residents Invited to Review Flood Maps

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Parke County Residents Invited to Review Flood Maps

    Parke County Residents Invited to Review Flood Maps

    CHICAGO – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in Bloomingdale, Marshall, Rosedale and unincorporated Parke County, Indiana. Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around February 5, 2025. The preliminary maps and changes from current maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer. The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state, and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. Contact your local floodplain administrator to do so. Appeals must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim. Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress. If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information, such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary, they can submit a written comment. The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps. For more information about the flood maps: Use a live chat service about flood maps (just click on the “Live Chat” icon during operating hours). Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone toll-free at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.  Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting www.FloodSmart.gov.For more information, contact the FEMA Mapping Team at FEMA-R5-MAP@fema.dhs.gov.
    kimberly.keblish
    Tue, 02/04/2025 – 17:03

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Answer Your Phone – FEMA May be Calling About Housing Resources

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    EMA is calling eligible survivors in Georgia regarding the Home Key housing initiative.
    The Home Key initiative provides rapid strategies for securing immediate housing for survivors of Hurricane Helene who have been displaced from their primary residence by using existing resources from various community partners.
    The program’s top priority is securing long-term housing assistance for survivors in greatest need. FEMA will conduct a thorough review of your case to establish a need for housing. If eligible, you will have to complete and provide FEMA with some paperwork, including Release of Information forms. FEMA may refer you to available sheltering programs; provide assistance for securing Rental Assistance; or refer you to voluntary agencies or other FEMA programs.
    Calls from FEMA may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers. It is important to answer the call as FEMA may call you regarding the Home Key initiative to help you with your immediate housing needs, provide you with additional assistance and give you general information about housing opportunities. Be aware of scammer calls; if you are uncertain of the validity of a call, hang up and call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
    For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia. Follow FEMA Region 4 @FEMARegion4 on X or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Cameron Hamilton on X @FEMA_Cam.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DPAA Conducts Honorable Carry Ceremony from Philipine Mission

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii  –  

    On 28 January, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency conducted an honorable carry ceremony to honor service members from World War II at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

    An honorable carry ceremony is a tradition that honors unknown service members as they return to American soil for the first time in over 80 years.

    The 18 U.S. flag-draped transfer cases contained the potential remains of 36 unknown World War II service members who were interred at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in the Philippines. The cases were repatriated to the DPAA’s laboratory in Hawaii for identification and analysis.

    “Thirty-five of these brave individuals perished in captivity at the Cabanatuan prison camp, while one gave their life in the Tokyo Prison Fire during World War II,” said John M. Figuerres, the DPAA’s acting deputy director for operations.

    These service members were among those who fought bravely at the battles of Bataan and Corregidor in 1942. With no supplies, reinforcements or hope of relief, they held their ground longer than any Allied force against the Imperial Japanese army’s initial attacks.

    “After being forced to surrender, many of these service members suffered through the brutal 65-mile Bataan Death March and lost their lives while being held as prisoners,” Figuerres explained.

    The DPAA launched the Cabanatuan Project in 2014 and has since accounted for more than 90 personnel. However, more than 900 individuals remain unaccounted for.
    “As part of its ongoing efforts, the agency’s annual goal is to conduct two Philippine disinterments and repatriate about 70 transfer cases”, said U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jordan Underwood, DPAA team leader for the disinterment.

    Additionally, the DPAA continues working to identify service members who perished in the Tokyo Military Prison in May 1945, initiating the Tokyo Prison Fire Project in 2022. Dozens of American Airmen who were being held in the Tokyo Military Prison died during the Allied firebombing of the Japanese capitol in March 1945, trapped amidst the blaze engulfing the city.

    The agency identifies potential remains using a wide variety of methods, some examples include anthropological testing, dental analysis and DNA testing in partnership with the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System.

    “The DPAA’s mission is to account for missing personnel from past conflicts. We hope to identify these service members and return them home. One family member once told me that it’s not about providing closure, but about closing a chapter of their family history, and I think that’s a great way to describe it”, said Dr. Carrie LeGarde, a DPAA scientific recovery expert. “We cannot achieve this without bringing these remains back to the DPAA laboratory.”

    For the men and women of the DPAA, an honorable carry is both a solemn occasion, and a triumph.

    “Today, after more than 84 years away from their homeland, we honor their return to the United States,” Figuerres said. “Their sacrifice stands as a testament to the extraordinary courage and resilience of the Greatest Generation. Our mission to identify these heroes continues, ensuring their legacy is preserved and their sacrifice to our nation is never forgotten.”

    For more information about the DPAA’s efforts to recover POW/MIA remains, visit https://www.dpaa.mil.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Commend the Democratic Republic of the Congo on Steps Taken to Provide Healthcare to Victims of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, Ask about Reparations for Victims and the Protect

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women today concluded its consideration of the report of the Democratic Republic of the Congo on sexual violence in armed conflict in the eastern part of the country, presented under its exceptional reporting procedure. 

    Committee Experts commended the State for the healthcare delivered to victims of conflict-related sexual violence, while asking about reparations for victims and how women seeking firewood and other resources in nature reserves could be protected

    A Committee Expert congratulated the State party for steps taken in the areas of healthcare. The Committee hailed the adoption of decree 23/9, which provided for the creation of multisectoral care for survivors of sexual-related violence.  The establishment of mobile clinics in internally displaced persons camps should be commended, as well as the distribution of post-rape kits by midwives. 

    Another Expert said the State party should be commended for enacting the fund for conflict-related sexual violence.  How did it operate and how many victims had benefitted from it?  What steps were being undertaken to ensure adequate resources to implement a victim-centred transitional justice mechanism? 

    A Committee Expert said as Goma was under siege, the most pressing issue was water.  How would the State install water distribution centres while ensuring the protection of women collecting the water?  Many women trekked from Goma in search of firewood, but instead were found by gunmen and faced rape.  Were there park rangers trained in violence prevention who were gender-sensitive and conscious of the epidemic of violence?  The proliferation of small arms and light weapons often claimed the lives of women and girls foraging for food and firewood; how was their illegal trading being addressed? 

     

    The delegation said victims were active participants in the reparation process.  A law implemented in 2022, which provided protection and reparation to victims of sexual violence, mandated a three per cent fixed amount to be sent to organizations for female victims to provide reparations.  Work was done with women at the local level to ensure their full participation.  More than 220,000 victims had been identified, including displaced persons. 

       

    Regarding the situation in the nature reserves in the east of the country, the delegation said this had become a ground for armed groups operating in the area.  Programmes were in place to address practical needs, including safe drinking water for persons in internally displaced persons camps, to ensure there was no need to forage further afield.  Steps had been taken to strengthen protection in the park areas, with regular security patrolling the areas, and keeping note of where women were located.  Awareness raising campaigns were being conducted to highlight the risks women faced when collecting firewood alone.  Women were provided with micro-credits to generate alternative income streams, allowing them to pay for resources such as firewood and water, rather than searching for them themselves. 

    Introducing the report, Chantal Chambu Mwavita, Minister for Human Rights of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and head of the delegation, called for a minute of silence to be observed for the victims of the conflict.  The special report being presented today on sexual violence in armed conflict in the eastern part of the country had been drafted at the request of the Committee.  The Congolese Government was committed to the prevention and suppression of sexual violence in times of conflict.

    Since the submission of the report, at least 945 police staff members had been deployed in areas where the United Nations Organization Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) had withdrawn to protect the civilian population.  The Government had adopted a national action plan, which included measures aimed at preventing violence against women in armed conflict.  The Minister said the Committee should support the creation of an international criminal tribunal for the Democratic Republic of the Congo to prosecute those responsible for sexual violence. 

    In closing remarks, Ms. Chambu Mwavita said it was an honour to be with the Committee to speak about the situation in the country.  The Democratic Republic of the Congo needed support.  The country had faced the aggression of its neighbour Rwanda for more than 30 years.  The dialogue today presented an opportunity to ask for unity and for efforts to respect the United Nations Charter.

    In her closing remarks, Nahla Haidar, Committee Chair, thanked the delegation for the constructive dialogue despite the difficult situation being faced in the country. The Committee expressed its solidarity with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and commended the State party for the efforts it had already taken. 

    The delegation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo was comprised of representatives from the Ministry of Human Rights; the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Ministry of Gender; the National Assembly; the Coordination Body on Youth, Gender and Violence against Women and Trafficking in Persons; the High Military Court; the Superior Council of the Judiciary; the Secretary General for Human Rights; the Commission for Inter-Institutional Victim Assistance and Reform Support Organization; the Assistant to the Chief of Staff of the Head of State and Focal Point for Sexual Violence; Gender and Sexual Violence in Conflict Zones Specialist; the National Assembly; the Directorate of Access to Justice; the Congolese National Police; the Head of State Security; and the Permanent Mission of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the United Nations Office at Geneva. 

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s ninetieth session is being held from 3 to 21 February.  All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, 5 February, to begin its consideration of the seventh periodic report of Nepal (CEDAW/C/NPL/7).

    Report

    The Committee has before it the report of the Democratic Republic of the Congo presented under the Committee’s exceptional reporting procedure (CEDAW/C/COD/EP/1).

    Presentation of Report

    CHANTAL CHAMBU MWAVITA, Minister for Human Rights of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and head of the delegation, called for a minute of silence to be observed for the victims of the conflict.  The delegation was presenting the report at a particular moment in time when the territory of North Kivu and South Kivu and Ituri was being torn apart by acts of violence, targeting the civilian population and civilian infrastructure, perpetrated by the Rwandan army and the M23 armed group.  Rwanda was a party to the Convention and was directly responsible for these crimes. 

    Various reports from the United Nations and witness statements from survivors of sexual conflict showed that thousands of women and girls had been victims of rape, mutilation and other types of inhumane violence.  These atrocities not only affected displaced persons, but were also taking place at homes, schools and in prisons.  Now Goma and its surroundings had been taken by the M23 army and other parts of Kivu were being besieged.  If the international community did not take urgent measures, there could be the spread of a cycle of violence against women and girls. 

    The special report being presented today on sexual violence in armed conflict in the eastern part of the country had been drafted at the request of the Committee.  The Congolese Government was committed to the prevention and suppression of sexual violence in times of conflict.  Since the submission of the report, at least 945 police staff members had been deployed in areas where the United Nations Organization Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) had withdrawn to protect the civilian population.  They had been trained to protect people against sexual violence. 

    The Government had adopted a national action plan, which included measures aimed at preventing violence against women in armed conflict.  In 2024, over 1,030 cases were reported and prosecuted by police in South Kivu.  Rulings had been handed down, including under military jurisdiction, where reparations were provided for victims.  The Ministry of Human Rights had pledged to conclude military amendments for transitional justice in the country. 

    The Government was making combatting violence against women the number one priority.  National funds had been developed, providing reparation and health care to the survivors.  Mobile clinics had established health care near areas controlled by the Rwandan army and the M23.  The efforts to protect victims from sexual violence were being undermined by the increased attacks by the Rwandan army and M23, as they had stepped up their military efforts and attacks against civilians.  Two weeks ago, a Rwandan military offensive backed by M23 had resulted in the escape of over 3,000 prisoners from Goma’s central prison, the proliferation of light arms, infrastructure damage, rapes of 163 women held in the prison who were set alight while alive, pillaging of legal buildings, attacks on women defending women victims of violence, and the bombing of the maternal hospital in Goma which led to the deaths of pregnant women and women who had just given birth.

    The Minister said it was essential for the Committee to provide support without delay to women survivors of sexual violence who were in areas occupied by the Rwandan army and the M23.  The Committee should strongly condemn the occupation of Congolese territory by the Rwandan army and the M23, and actively advocate for sanctions against them.  The Committee should support the creation of an international criminal tribunal for the Democratic Republic of the Congo to prosecute those responsible for sexual violence.  The delegation was here to support the United Nations Charter and put an end to the war in the country. 

    NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, said the Committee stood with the delegation and the people of the Democratic of the Congo during this difficult time. 

     

    GISÈLE KAPINGA NTUMBA, National Human Rights Commissioner and head of the delegation of the National Human Rights Commission of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, saluted the delegation, which had spared no effort to take part in the session, despite the situation in the country.  The Commission welcomed the decisions taken by the Congolese Government to protect the civilian population from the risks of sexual violence and other related human rights violations committed by the parties to the ongoing conflict in the east of the country.  However, it remained concerned about the implementation of the decisions taken and their deterrent nature, particularly with regard to armed groups and the Rwandan army, which were not concerned by these decisions. 

    One of the major challenges for the Government was the security of and humanitarian assistance for the civilian population, both in areas besieged by armed groups and in camps for displaced persons.  The recent invasion and unprecedented assault on the city of Goma by the M23 rebels and the Rwandan army demonstrated the magnitude of the challenge and had led to systematic and widespread violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, with women and children as primary targets.

    At least 700 people had died in Goma since the invasion, and about 500,000 people had been displaced, the majority of whom were women and children.  Sexual violence had reached its peak and health care facilities were overwhelmed.  The city had not been under the control of the Congolese Government, in violation of the principle of Congolese State sovereignty, since the invasion.

    Taking into account the current context, the Commission recommended that the Congolese State use all its powers to restore peace in the east by favouring diplomatic channels and the peaceful settlement of the conflict.  At the International Criminal Court, it was recommended that criminal proceedings be initiated against the leaders of the M23 and the Rwandan army for the various acts constituting war crimes and crimes against humanity perpetrated in Goma and its surroundings.  Finally, at the United Nations Security Council, the Commission recommended that targeted sanctions be taken against Rwanda and that everything be done to bring peace to the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    BRENDA AKIA, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, said the Committee members extended their heartfelt condolences to the Democratic Republic the Congo, and condemned the violence being experienced by women and girls in the country.  Ms. Akia commended the Government for the commitment to being part of the dialogue, the progress made in human rights, and the measures taken to tackle sexual violence.  Could the State party provide specific information on the different forms of conflict-related sexual violence currently being committed against women and girls?   

    An urgent political response was needed to ensure peace and security in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Given the complexity of the conflict, fuelled by the exploitation of minerals and the existence of armed groups, what strategies was the State party undertaking to push for peace in the country, and ensure the protection of women and girls under international humanitarian law?  What was being done to end the illicit exploitation of these minerals? The Committee commended the State party for the actions taken so far; what were the challenges faced in implementing these legal and policy frameworks?  What resources would the State party require to implement these frameworks?

    A Committee Expert said the Democratic Republic of the Congo was resource-rich, which was often a curse, having fuelled the conflict and sexual violence.  Several pieces of legislation had been passed with the aim of regulating the trade of minerals and armed conflict in the area.  How were extraterritorial actors, including businesses, being held accountable so they did not avoid impunity? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the illicit mining was one of the main causes of the crisis in the eastern part of the country.  The Government had enacted several measures to turn this situation around, but the major challenge was that the mines were under the control of armed groups as well as foreign States that were involving themselves in the conflict.  The Government was taking steps to ensure the certification of certain mining operations, but it was difficult to ensure this was a widespread approach.  The Government was hindered by the conflict and its economic pressure and the difficulty of imposing Government initiatives in areas controlled by rebel groups and foreign States, due to the lack of administrative control.

    The financial issues were a challenge, including for implementing transitional justice mechanisms, which was why an appeal had been made to States for support in this regard. Impunity needed to be tackled head on; the perpetrators of these crimes could not go unpunished.  Steps needed to be taken to bear pressure on other States involved in the conflict, including by sheltering perpetrators.  The Democratic Republic of the Congo was calling for an international criminal tribunal to ensure all involved, regardless of their location, could be apprehended.  When rapes had occurred in Goma, any measures taken by the Government to deal with this were difficult to enact, as other parties were now in charge of Goma. 

    In the conflict areas, women were principally being used by armed groups and other combatants to serve as sexual slaves.  This could result in forced pregnancies and exposure to sexually transmitted diseases. Women being held by these armed groups also did not have access to relevant and necessary health care.  A coordination unit had tracked 10 forms of sexual violence, including rape, human trafficking, sexual mutilation, public sexual violence and humiliation, including women whose sons had been forced to rape them in public, public sexual violence against men and boys, gang rape, transmission of HIV/AIDS as a result of rape, and stigmatisation as a result of the sexual violence, among others. 

    There was also a form of sexual violence deliberately targeting children, particularly young girls. The State had also seen sexual violence used as a weapon of war, which had been ongoing since 2011, when the country was first described as “the world rape capital”. 

    To ensure a better management of its natural resources, the Democratic Republic of the Congo participated in multiple inter-State cooperation efforts to ensure the tracing of natural resources, including those exploited via mining. One included the Kimberly Process for the tracing of diamonds.  The difficulty lay in the application of these pieces of legislation, as the majority of the areas where these resources were found were occupied by Rwanda in the eastern part of the country.  For this reason, it was difficult for the State to exercise its full sovereignty and ensure the traceability of resources.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert thanked the members of the delegation for their presence, despite the dire situation.  Many women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo faced marginalisation from the peace and security processes.  The weak rule of law, and the impunity for perpetrators of violence and gender-based violence, continued to undermine women’s involvement in the peace and security agenda.  The Expert was happy to note that the third national action plan on women, peace and security had been adopted in 2024; when did it come into effect?  How were women’s organizations and victims engaged in its implementation?  What were the key objectives of the plan?  What concrete plans existed to address the situation of impunity?  What concrete measures were being undertaken to ensure the effective participation of women’s organizations and victims of sexual violence in policies and frameworks relating to women, peace and security? 

    The State party should be commended for enacting the fund for conflict-related sexual violence. How did it operate and how many victims had benefitted from it?  What steps were being undertaken to ensure adequate resources to implement a victim-centred transitional justice mechanism?  Given the withdrawal of the United Nations Organization Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), how would the Government’s transition plan fill this void?  Was there any data on women’s direct participation in negotiation processes for peacebuilding? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said victims were active participants in the reparation process.  A law implemented in 2022, which provided protection and reparation to victims of sexual violence, mandated a three per cent fixed amount to be sent to organizations for female victims to provide reparations.  Work was done with women at the local level to ensure their full participation.  More than 220,000 victims had been identified, including displaced persons.  The situation of displaced persons had been catastrophic and required immediate assistance, with emergency measures implemented for this group, including holistic care, medical psychosocial care, and legal assistance and support; 49 per cent of people recorded came from North Kivu.  The situation was constantly changing which made it difficult to respond to. Rigorous monitoring and management efforts were taken to ensure victims were at the heart of responses, with the majority of resources gathered being dispersed as reparations.  Regular consultations were held with victims groups every three months. 

    The third national action plan on women, peace and security was approved in 2024 and included activities to improve the level of women’s participation.  For the first time in the country, there was a female Prime Minister and 32 per cent of those occupying high-level positions in the Government were women.  Awareness-raising campaigns were carried out to raise awareness of women’s rights, prevent sexual violence, and protect women and young girls from gender-based violence. The most recent plan had 26 million dollars earmarked, which had been provided by the Government, public and private partners and international partners, including Norway.  Innovative aspects had been included within the plan, including an aspect of positive masculinity. 

    The withdrawal of the United Nations Organization Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) from the Democratic Republic of the Congo began in 2021.  The withdrawal plan was supported by the Peace Consolidation Fund, to support the country when the Mission withdrew and bolster peace efforts.  This approach was inclusive, involving civil society and actively promoting cohesion among women’s organizations. 

    Since 2018, there had been an increase in women in decision-making positions, due to an introduction of measures to promote gender equality, as well as this being enshrined within the country’s Constitution. 

     

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert said the Democratic Republic of the Congo had ratified the Convention almost 40 years ago.  During this time, how had women’s participation in the political process changed? How many people were in top positions in the country?  Women and girls in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remained underrepresented in all spheres, including in the private sector.  Out of 500 members of Parliament, only 14 per cent of them were women. 

    A roadmap had been adopted up to 2028 to prevent violence in politics.  What steps were being taken to guarantee more women taking part in legislative bodies?  What was being done to eliminate violence in electoral processes?  How were women candidates being protected?  Taking into consideration the extreme violence in the eastern part of the country, it seemed difficult to foresee, but when would there be net parity in the representation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said a campaign had been spearheaded for positive masculinity. There was now a female Prime Minister and women occupied key decision-making and ministerial posts within the Government, including as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. This year, all party leaders were called upon to ensure 50 per cent of female candidates in their electoral lists in scheduled elections.  These lists would be excused from having to pay the electoral fee, which was an incentive to guarantee more female candidates. 

    Steps had been taken at the electoral and appointed level to push for the stated goal of parity. However, it was another thing to ensure that the female candidates were elected as representatives or senators. The authorities had more control on appointing women to specific posts, rather than ensuring they were elected by voters.  A rule had been enacted to ensure parity with Director-Generals and Deputy Director-Generals, whereby every time a man was appointed to this position, so was a woman, and vice versa.  To ensure more female members of Parliament, women had to be able to persuade the local population to vote for them.  Hearts and minds needed to be changed at the grassroots level, but this was happening gradually.  Having more female leaders would go a long way to changing the electoral environment. 

    During the most recent elections, a programme was rolled out to address electoral violence in the eastern part of the country, and boost capacity for women who wanted to stand as electoral candidates.  Programmes were also rolled out targeting key communities and regions at a grassroots level. Awareness-raising was being carried out in villages to address the entrenched views within the country. Women female candidates often lacked resources, so it was important to engage in capacity building so they could undertake fundraising.  The process towards the drive towards parity was closely tied to the existence of legal instruments.  The Democratic Republic of the Congo was making efforts to promote women’s participation at all levels. 

    Legal and regulatory frameworks were in place under Congolese electoral law to protect female candidates.  A specialised police unit and the military were deployed to regions to ensure violence was not being inflicted on female candidates, and the police received special training in this regard.  Special campaigns were carried out to raise awareness of gender-based violence in elections and encourage female candidates to report this phenomenon.  The prevailing conflict hampered the opportunities to change the sociological and cultural mindsets within the country.  Of the 5,000 judges in the country, around 25 per cent were now women, when previously it had been almost zero.  To achieve this goal, women had been prioritised in recruitment drives.  There was a lack of trust in women’s competence which needed to be addressed. The State was exhausted by the war which was standing in the way of the process. 

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    A Committee Expert said given the link between armed conflict and the climate crisis, could reparations be expanded to include climate-change related violence against women? In March 2021, the International Criminal Court had issued its first order for reparations for victims of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Did the reparation fund provide funds for children born out of rape? Last year, a member of the militia was sentenced to imprisonment for life for crimes against humanity, due to forced pregnancy, which was a global first and should be congratulated.  Did the Penal Code address the 10 categories of sexual violence previously mentioned?  How did the Code help shift the stigma from the victim to the perpetrator? As Goma was under siege, the most pressing issue was water.  How would the State install water distribution centres while ensuring the protection of women collecting the water?

    Many women trekked from Goma in search of firewood, but instead were found by gunmen and faced rape.  Were there park rangers trained in violence prevention, who were gender-sensitive and conscious of the epidemic of violence?  The proliferation of small arms and light weapons often claimed the lives of women and girls foraging for food and firewood; how was their illegal trading being addressed?  It was estimated that the country faced acute food insecurity and was at the tipping point of famine.  How was a humanitarian corridor for access to food, water and medical supplies being established?  Unfortunately, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, food insecurity resulted in “famine brides”, particularly women and girls with disabilities, who were denied food and medicine and sold in sexual slavery.   

    Responses by the Delegation

    One speaker from the delegation said she had been raped during the war, and hearing the recent news was triggering many emotions.  At the time she had been a child; now she was 28 and it continued to haunt her.  It was vital for the reparation fund and other programmes which aimed to provide reparations to victims, to target children born in conflict, children born from rape, and children who witnessed conflict.  The Child and Youth Programme granted children who came from conflict or rape administrative documents.  Medical care, psychosocial assistance and social support, including access to education, was provided to children.  Laws were in place to ensure that those involved in the conflict would not be able to hold decision-making positions or receive any benefits. 

    M23 and the Rwandan Government had destroyed the displaced persons camps around Goma, depriving these people of their legitimate rights to protection.  The Government, with international partners, had made great efforts to help people establish these camps and have the bare necessities, but they were being destroyed.  It had become impossible to find a single shelter for displaced people in these areas. So many efforts had been made, with little results, as the Government could not control the area.  The speaker asked the international community to speak on behalf of victims, so that their voices were heard. 

    The State was working with the United Nations Children’s Fund, the United Kingdom and others to develop a tool to identify children born from rape.  This would not just help children from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but also children born from rape in Sudan, Ukraine and other parts of the world.  The Democratic Republic of the Congo was expecting a third wave of children born from rape, who would ask who their parents were.  There needed to be measures to ensure this did not happen again. It was difficult to bring down the number of light weapons. 

    There was an undeniable link between sexual violence against women and economisation. Regarding the situation in the nature reserves in the east of the country, this had become a ground for armed groups operating in the area.  One of the consequences of climate change was the energy crisis, meaning firewood and charcoal carbon were the energy resources sought by women and girls, who regularly fell victim to the armed groups, and were raped while seeking to meet their energy needs.  There were units responsible for protecting the reserves, but the light weapons they were armed with were no match for the firepower of the armed groups, who could then wreak havoc on the nature reserves.  The guards in the reserves were not equipped to protect the women searching for firewood and the Government did not have the ability to intervene as these areas were controlled by Rwanda.  Many of these parks and forests were registered as national heritage sites by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.  The impact of this part of the conflict needed to be properly understood and measured. 

    A programme had been developed to ensure youths were not tempted by the recruitment of the armed groups, and to provide for the needs of internally displaced persons and ensure their reintegration in their host communities.  The programme also targeted ex-combatants but excluded those who had taken arms against the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  A woman was a member of the leadership board on this programme. 

    Programmes were in place to address practical needs, including safe drinking water for persons in internally displaced persons camps, to ensure there was no need to forage further afield.  The war had hampered these endeavours, as many internally displaced persons were now fleeing from camps, and it was difficult to identify them.  Steps had been taken to strengthen protection in the park areas, with regular security patrolling the areas, and keeping note of where women were located.  The State was also seeking to address the issue of reforestation, by encouraging women to engage directly in sustainable forest management. 

    Awareness raising campaigns were being conducted to highlight the risks women faced when collecting firewood alone.  Women were provided with micro-credits to generate alternative income streams, allowing them to pay for resources such as firewood and water, rather than searching for them themselves.  A hotline was established, where women could call to report instances of rape or violence, and they were offered psychological assistance and support. Women were also taught how to have access to water and sustainably manage it, and water purification tablets were distributed to women, to ensure their water was drinkable.  Work was being done with local and international partners to bolster women’s protection systems and their sustainable natural management systems. 

    Steps were being taken to tackle food insecurity which was prevalent in the eastern part of the country, including through establishing canteens for displaced persons. The Government placed special emphasis on tackling the trading of small arms and light weapons, but this was often disregarded by States.  However, the Government sometimes had to disregard control measures themselves to ensure they were equipped to fight against the Rwandan army and M23.  It was important to note that the State was not refusing dialogue with the armed groups, but they would not re-enter former rebel combatants into the armed forces.  However, the State was willing to engage in dialogue with these groups, under the Nairobi agreement. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    An Expert said it was important that women were included in the Nairobi peace process. It was vital to document evidence and women’s narratives for women’s legal action.  The Congo basin was “the lungs of Africa” and it was important that it was protected to ensure the Sustainable Development Goals.  The Democratic Republic of the Congo had reintroduced the death penalty in January this year to address the wave of gang violence. It was hoped this would be reconsidered. 

    BRENDA AKIA, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, commended the State party for justice efforts taken to end impunity for conflict-related sexual violence, including the mobile courts which had led to the prosecution of numerous perpetrators.  Given the high level of sexual violence, the number of convictions were not commensurate.  Was the State party considering other jurisdiction methods to ensure perpetrators who passed through the porous borders in the regions would be prosecuted and held accountable? 

    The State party should emphasise in the Nairobi peace process negotiations the conflict-related sexual violence experienced by women and girls and the importance of gathering evidence for seeking justice.  How was the State party investing in strengthening the rule of law to ensure access to quality and affordable justice, including access to legal aid for victims of conflict-related sexual violence?  Could the State party provide data on the number of investigations, arrests, arrest warrants and successful convictions handed down against victims? Ms. Akia commended the State party for the commitment to the peace process

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said that following some complaints received by the Government, a Commission was established to look into alleged violations by members of law enforcement. In Goma, around 30 members of law enforcement had been judged.  Given the recent situation of the prison break, the whereabouts of these individuals was currently unknown.  The difficulty was related to the international nature of the crisis; even if domestic mechanisms would be established, there were international elements which needed to be addressed.  For the Government, the reinstation of the death penalty was an administrative deterrent measure for the situation in the eastern part of the country.  No executions had been carried out so far. 

    Justice was provided free of charge for victims of conflict-related sexual violence, practically and legislatively.  Many women did not want to present their cases before courts as they feared stigmatisation, and they also faced difficulty in access to justice, which explained the discrepancy between the number of cases of sexual violence reported and the number convicted.  Often times, victims could not pay for legal proceedings and did not understand how the courts operated, which presented further challenges.  The State party was aiming to remove some of these barriers, including by making access to the justice system free of charge.  Now, in the east of the country, this was the situation.  At the same time, legal assistance could be provided to victims. 

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    A Committee Expert expressed solidarity and deep sadness for the tragic loss of life within the State party.  Could the State party provide information on what measures were being taken to ensure adequate capacity to strengthen coordination among duty-bearers responsible for preventing conflict-related sexual violence, including judges and prosecutors, among others?  What incentives had been applied to increase the recruitment of judges and prosecutors so that they could handle the backlog of conflict-related sexual violence cases, particularly in rural areas?  How often were duty-bearers responsible for combatting conflict-related sexual violence? How often was training conducted and what did it entail?  How often was the Convention incorporated in the training? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said according to the 2024 law on the status of judges, judges learned about several topics during their training, including sexual violence.  From the moment Congolese judges were appointed, they could begin to work on repressing sexual violence.  Following the ratification of the Convention, the Democratic Republic of the Congo had had to adapt its legal framework. 

    In areas of conflict, it would be difficult to provide statistical figures, as courts and legal buildings had been destroyed, meaning it was difficult to follow-up on written cases. The National Strategy to Combat Gender-Based Violence had been rolled out initially in 2010, was revised in 2019, and was being reviewed currently to see if it needed to be tailored to the existing context.  In 2019, the National Police drew up a national plan to tackle sexual violence, which contained a chapter outlining the modalities to be followed when it came to interviewing victims and witnesses. 

    The statue on the recruitment of judges covered lawyers who worked in the Attorney-General’s Office.  Around two thirds of magistrates recruited by the Office in 2023 would be reappointed to serve as judges in district courts.  There were more than nine instances of action criminalised as sexual violence, which were heard before the Peace Courts.  These cases were being heard whenever possible in local district courts.  This was a way used by the Government to address the backlog of cases.  Female mediators were currently being trained by Member States of the Southern African Community. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert said conflict-affected mining grounds saw high levels of sexual slavery, fuelled by money from the mineral trade.  Human trafficking remained a worrying phenomenon in certain parts of the country.  How did the State party ensure that complaints of trafficking were handled appropriately and that victims themselves were not penalised?  How would the State party prevent trafficking of persons by members of the armed groups?  Were there plans to increase the number of shelters for female victims of human trafficking? 

    Another Expert said the Committee encouraged the State party’s efforts in the face of the resurgence of conflict.  Between January 2022 and March 2023, more than 100 schools had stopped operating due to the deteriorating security situation.  The Committee understood that educational activities were extremely difficult during the ongoing situation.  Was there an education policy for displaced women and girls?  Was education considered part of the services provided to survivors of conflict-related sexual violence?  What were the education plans for all levels of the system?  Were school age pregnant girls and mothers able to attend schools and access education? The Expert was pleased to hear of the State party’s approach to positive masculinity.  Young males were easy targets for recruitment into armed groups. Did gender-responsive education exist within the school and university systems, the armed forces, and State systems?

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said as of last week, there were more than seven million internally displaced persons in the Democratic Republic of the Congo who were lacking aid, which presented a major crisis for the country.  Since 2019, the President had set up the National Agency to tackle the issue of human trafficking.  An expanded Technical Commission had been established to engage in discussions and debate.  In conflict zones, women and children were increasingly vulnerable to sexual exploitation. There was an increasing number of brothels in and around Goma, and in mining areas as well.  Those who worked there were victims, who had no other choice. There was a significant amount of forced labour in the mines, with a substantial number being children.  There were also many child combatants in the armed groups who had been tricked into joining them. 

    There was significant corruption surrounding human trafficking; the Government fully understood this issue and was attempting to tackle it head on.  The current political instability and the mass of displaced persons gave traffickers cover to carry out their activities.  The Government was doing its utmost to combat human trafficking and was working closely with the United Nations Office in Vienna.  The State had managed to stabilise the situation, but recognised there was still significant work to be done. 

    The Government had been able to rebuild around 20 schools which had been destroyed.  The approach to education always mainstreamed a gender dimension, and took into account the specific needs of women and girls. The major issue was the sheer number of displaced persons, with more than half of them women and children. The State was doing its utmost to ensure women and girls had access to education. 

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert congratulated the State party for steps taken in the area of healthcare. The Committee hailed the adoption of decree 23/9, which provided for the creation of multisectoral care for survivors of sexual-related violence.  The establishment of mobile clinics in camps for internally displaced people should be commended, as well as the distribution of post-rape kits by midwives. Could more data be provided, including the number of health care facilities built, the number of victims treated, the number of kits being distributed, and the training rate of those trained?

    Another Expert said in some contexts armed groups used child marriage as a weapon of war to hide human trafficking, with a very small percentage of cases brought to light. What special urgent actions was the State taking to counter this regrettable situation?  What were legal institutions doing to prevent child and forced marriages?  Was awareness being raised among the families to teach them about their rights?  Was current legislation being enforced?  How was security being provided to the victims? 

    NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, asked about the mass displacement of people; how were these people documented? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the legal instruments on sexual violence, particularly the law on children, stipulated how the system was regulated.  The Government did not have control over this part of the country, and it hurt that they could not answer questions about things happening on their land. The mechanisms existed, but the State could not enforce its own legal instruments because it did not have control over the territory. 

    Forced marriage carried a sentence of 20 years in prison for anyone responsible, including a parent or head of a tribe.  There were also awareness campaigns being carried out on forced marriage and human trafficking.  Institutions took cases of forced marriages very seriously.  A State official would not grant a marriage license without verifying the age of those seeking marriage.  A provincial action plan was in place for areas where there were high rates of early and forced marriages.  The police had put together an action plan against sexual violence which considered the child.  The Democratic Republic of the Congo had set up free programmes to provide education on child marriage.

     

    The State did not have access to areas under control of the Rwandan army and armed forces. Rehabilitation had been provided to displaced persons, but there were seven million displaced persons, which meant that the Government could not look after everyone.  Over 10,000 displaced persons had received medical care under a programme, but unfortunately the Government had to close this programme due to the war.  There was a budget in place to assist displaced persons.  Before the war, actions had been taken by the Government in land currently under Rwandese occupation. 

    This dialogue could be an opportunity to appeal to the international community for financial assistance to improve the State’s humanitarian response to the crisis. 

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    A Committee Expert said due to the humanitarian crisis and high levels of poverty, high levels of food insecurity persisted, disproportionately affecting women and girls. In some cases, women were raped, mutilated, killed or burned.  Data was needed for the State party to be able to take measures.  Could disaggregated data be provided on the number of women and girls who were victims of conflict-related sexual violence in camps in the eastern part of the country?  What actions were applied by the State party to upgrade gender-specific security measures in and around these protection sites?  How did the State party sustain an emergency response for women and girls fleeing the conflict?  What specific education and training had been provided for peace? How was awareness raising undertaken in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, reaffirming peace and tolerance? 

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said Governments bore the responsibility of protecting their citizens. They should not be persecuting their people.  The country had been caught up in a crisis for the past three decades.  The programmes put in place demonstrated the commitment of the Government to restore children who had been educated in the culture of killing and war.  Before Goma fell, the Government had enacted measures to ensure security of the internally displaced person camps, including preventing people with no business in the camps from entering and installing security controls around the camps. Unfortunately, these efforts had proven to be in vain.  An action plan had been rolled out to bolster the humanitarian response, with a key component of the strategy focused on tackling gender-based violence. 

    Questions by a Committee Expert

    A Committee Expert asked what proportion of the extractive industry was owned and led by women? What role did women play in supply chains in key sectors?  How was legislation being reformed for companies investing and trading in the extractive industry?  How was the State party providing necessary oversight through the licensing of the private sector?  How did public and private partnership projects explicitly promote and protect women’s rights?  How were appropriate social buffers provided to cushion the impact of war on women?   

    Responses by the Delegation

    The delegation said the State had begun the process of victim identification, and 54 per cent of victims identified were women.  This meant these women could benefit from reparations if they arrived at the end of the process.  No woman victim would be deprived of her right to reparation or remedy. 

    In the Congolese mining agreements and the forestry code, there was a legal mechanism in place, called the social clause.  Whatever resources were being exploited, no part of the land escaped this principle. Anyone who wished to exploit resources needed to engage with the community, but the State was the sovereign owner.  There were no clauses which prohibited women from working in the private sector or in the extractive industries.  In the initiative on human rights, there was a voluntary principle which allowed the State to monitor and intervene in instances of mining to ensure there were no violations of human rights or cases of forced labour.  Women played a full role in the private sector and there was a high rate of participation there. 

    Closing Remarks 

    CHANTAL CHAMBU MWAVITA, Minister for Human Rights of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and head of the delegation, said it was an honour to be with the Committee to speak about the situation in the country.  The Democratic Republic of the Congo needed support.  The country had faced the aggression of its neighbour Rwanda for more than 30 years.  The dialogue today presented an opportunity to ask for unity and for efforts to respect the United Nations Charter.

    NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, thanked the delegation for the constructive dialogue despite the difficult situation being faced in the country.  This was an exceptional report, and the Chair thanked the State party for participating in the dialogue which gave the Committee a chance to better understand the situation faced by women and girls who were victims of conflict-related sexual violence.  The Committee expressed its solidarity with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and commended the State party for the efforts it had already taken.  

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the information media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

     

    CEDAW25.002E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Why have UN peacekeepers been in DR Congo for 65 years?

    Source: United Nations 4

    By Fabrice Robinet

    Peace and Security

    Regional conflicts, murderous militias, the exploitation of natural resources, innocent civilians forced to flee their homes; these recent developments in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are just the latest in the central African nation’s troubled history.

    DRC gained independence in 1960 and since then the UN has played a crucial role in the country, notably through the deployment of three peacekeeping missions.

    Here are four essential things to know:

    1. A UN presence since independence

    The UN intervened for the first time in DRC just a few weeks after the country gained independence on 30 June 1960, following 75 years of Belgian colonial domination.

    UN Photo

    UN Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld confers in Elisabethville (now Lubumbashi) after talks with Katanga and Belgian representatives about withdrawing Belgian troops and deploying UN peacekeepers. (file)

    During colonial rule the country was exploited for its natural resources and its workforce without any real preparation for political autonomy.

    As early as July 1960, independence was threatened by the secession of two mineral-rich provinces – Katanga and South Kasai.

    The latter benefitted from the support of Belgium and foreign economic interests, eager to maintain control over the country’s resources.

    The country then sank into a major political crisis, marked by the assassination of its Prime Minister, Patrice Lumumba, in 1961.

    Faced with this situation, the UN deployed the UN Operation in the Congo (ONUC) in July 1960 .

    The first large-scale peacekeeping mission, ONUC aimed to help the government in Leopoldville – the former name given to the capital, Kinshasa – to restore order and unity in the country and to ensure the withdrawal of Belgian troops.

    The mission, which numbered 20,000 peacekeepers at its peak, played a key role in ending the Katanga secession in 1963 before withdrawing in 1964.

    UN Photo

    Ghana first deployed troops as part of a UN peacekeeping operation set up to help restore calm and order in the then Republic of Congo (ONUC). (file)

    2. MONUC: A response to Congolese wars

    After more than 30 years of dictatorship under the rule of Mobutu Sese Seko, the country, then renamed Zaire, fell into two successive conflicts – the “first” (1996-1997) and the “second” (1998-2003) Congo Wars.

    In 1996, Rwanda, supported in particular by Uganda and Burundi, intervened in eastern Zaire, officially to drive out Hutu militias responsible for the 1994 genocide against the Tutsis, who had taken refuge in the provinces of North and South Kivu.

    In May 1997, with military support from Kigali and Kampala, Laurent-Désiré Kabila seized power, forcing Mr. Mobutu into exile and renamed the country the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    In 1998, Mr. Kabila turned against his former Rwandan and Ugandan allies, who were supporting rebellions in the east of the country. For his part, he benefitted from the support of Angola, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

    Following the signing of the Lusaka Ceasefire Agreement in 1999, the UN deployed the UN Organization Mission in DRC (MONUC) to oversee its implementation.

    Even after the official end of the war in 2003, DRC remains a strategic issue for regional powers due to its exceptional natural resources and its key role in the stability of the Great Lakes region.

    UN Photo/Martine Perret

    Weapons and ammunition collected during a demobilisation process in DRC.

    3. MONUSCO: A mission still present

    In 2010, MONUC became the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in DRC (MONUSCO) with an expanded mandate, including the protection of civilians and support to the Congolese government in strengthening peace and stability.

    Still recently deployed in the three eastern provinces of the country, namely North Kivu, South Kivu and Ituri, MONUSCO had proceeded, at DRC’s request, to withdraw its troops from South Kivu in June 2024 and was poised to completely disengage by the end of the year.

    However, also at the government’s request, the Security Council extended in December MONUSCO’s mandate through the end of 2025.

    Despite UN efforts, several armed groups continue to operate in the area, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and the March 23 Movement, or M23 armed group, which defends the interests of Congolese Tutsi and benefits from the support of Rwandan forces.

    Since the beginning of 2025, M23 and the Rwandan army have been responsible for the latest outbreak of violence in the east of the country, where they occupy several strategic towns in North and South Kivu.

    UN Photo/Marie Frechon

    A member of MONUC’s South African parachute battalion on patrol duties around the village of Ntamugenga. (file)

    4. Natural resources: A major factor in conflicts

    DRC benefits from immense natural resources, particularly in the three eastern provinces, including vast reserves of gold, diamonds and tin, which is used in electronic devices.

    North and South Kivu are also rich in coltan, a metal highly coveted by the technology sector because of its use in the manufacture of capacitors found in mobile phones and laptops. DRC is also the world’s leading producer of cobalt, a strategic mineral used in the manufacture of almost all rechargeable batteries in the world today.

    These natural resources attract interests in neighbouring countries and are at the heart of conflicts in the region.

    Armed groups, such as M23, are accused of illegally exploiting these resources to finance their activities, with the complicity of companies inside and outside the country as well as DRC’s neighbours.

    The UN has put in place several initiatives to combat the illegal trade in minerals, including mechanisms to sanction companies involved in this trafficking and an arms embargo to combat their proliferation in DRC.

    However, combating illegal exploitation of resources remains a major challenge.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ChildFund – Back to school? Not without clean water

    Source: ChildFund New Zealand

    ‘Back-to-school’ means something different in parts of the Pacific
    Children in remote areas of the Pacific, like the outer islands of Solomon Islands or Kiribati struggle to go back to school if they don’t have access to clean water, let alone access to pens, school books and a new school bag.
    “The Pacific is our home too. It’s unacceptable that even one child in our region does not have easy access to the most important life-saving resource of all – water,” says CEO of ChildFund Josie Pagani
    Some schools lack running clean water, and parents either cannot access or cannot afford bottled water. Children miss school to spend the day collecting clean water from sources many miles away.
    “Lack of clean water has a domino effect. Dirty water impacts a child’s education, which then impacts their ability to work and earn an income, and even their lifelong health,” says Sharon Inone, CEO of Greenergy
    Sharon has recently returned from working with the United Nations, to her home province of Temotu in Solomon Islands, where Greenergy is working with ChildFund New Zealand to bring clean water to her community.
    “I made a promise to my mother that I would do something about the lack of clean water in our home, and that’s what I’m doing,” says Sharon Inone.
    The lack of clean water in parts of Solomon Islands, Kiribati and other remote parts of the Pacific leads to dysentery, severe diarrhoea, hospitalisation and even death in children with their whole lives ahead of them.
    ChildFund New Zealand is working with local communities across the Pacific to fix or build water infrastructure.
    Without this work, too many children will miss out on an education, a career and even a full healthy life.
    1 in 10 deaths for children under 5 years in parts of the Pacific is linked to diarrhoea, vomiting and dirty water. The Pacific has some of the highest rates of stunting in the world, with 33 per cent of children under the age of five in Solomon Islands suffering from stunting, and 15 per cent of children affected in Kiribati.
    “Stunting doesn’t just affect physical growth. It affects a child’s brain development which makes it hard for them to learn. Preventing the illnesses that come from dirty water will help to reduce these rates. This is a fixable problem. So let’s fix it,” says Josie Pagani.
    “I want our kids to grow up like normal kids, with access to the basics like clean water. Not to be born into the culture of looking for water every day. If they have clean water, kids will get the education they deserve. We are adding four to five more hours every day to their lives if they don’t have to search for clean water. These are hours that their parents can use earning an income instead of looking for water. It is adding more time to do more productive things,” says Sharon Inone.
    “This is not just about water. It’s about people getting their lives back. It’s about stopping kids die. It’s about allowing parents time to make money, and the kids the time to learn. It’s about improving the standard of living and the health of children no matter where they live,” says Sharon Inone.
    “Clean water changes everything.”
    Give the back-to-school gift of an education to a child in the Pacific.
    Donate to ChildFund, to help us buy water tanks, rebuild broken water pumps or provide safe sanitation kits to schools and homes: https://childfund.org.nz/closethegap/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s reply to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address in Lok Sabha

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s reply to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address in Lok Sabha

    The President’s address clearly strengthens the resolve to build a Viksit Bharat: PM

    We have not given false slogans to the poor, but true development, A Government that has worked for all sections of society: PM

    We believe in ensuring resources are spent towards public welfare: PM

    Our Government is proud of the middle class and will always support it: PM

    Proud of India’s Yuva Shakti; Since 2014, we have focused on the youth of the country and emphasized on their aspirations, today our youth are succeeding in every field: PM

    We are leveraging the power of AI to build an Aspirational India: PM

    An unwavering commitment to strengthening the values enshrined in our Constitution: PM

    Public service is all about nation building: PM

    Our commitment to the Constitution motivates us to take strong and pro-people decisions: PM

    Our Government has worked to create maximum opportunities for people from SC, ST and OBC Communities: PM

    Our Government has shown how to strengthen unity as well as care for the poor and downtrodden: PM

    Emphasis on saturation is generating outstanding results:PM

    In the last decade, unprecedented support has been given to the MSME sector: PM

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 9:13PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi replied to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address to Parliament in the Lok Sabha today. Addressing the House, the Prime Minister appreciated the contributions of all honorable MPs who participated in the discussions yesterday and today, noting that the tradition of democracy includes both praise where necessary and some negative remarks where needed, which is natural. Highlighting the great privilege of being given the opportunity by the people to express gratitude for the President’s address for the 14th time, he extended his respectful thanks to the citizens and acknowledged all participants in the discussion for enriching the proposal with their thoughts.

    Remarking that as of 2025, a quarter of the 21st century has passed, Shri Modi noted that time will judge the achievements of the post-independence 20th century and the first 25 years of the 21st century. He emphasized that a detailed study of the President’s address reveals that it instills new confidence in the future 25 years and the vision of a developed India. The Prime Minister highlighted that the President’s address strengthens the resolve for a Viksit Bharat, creates new confidence, and inspires the general public.

    The Prime Minister highlighted that in the last 10 years, 25 crore people had moved out of poverty, as revealed by many studies. He remarked that this effort was possible due to effective implementation of the schemes with devotion and utmost sensitivity by the Government towards the poor and the needy. He added that when people who are grounded and who know the ground reality, work for the people at the ground level, then change is inevitable and certain  on the ground. “Our Government has not given false slogans to the poor, but true development”, said Shri Modi. He added that his was a Government that has worked for all sections of society by understanding the pain of the poor and aspirations of the middle-class with utmost passion, which was lacking in some people. 

    Noting that it was truly a despair to live in kachcha houses and huts during the monsoons, the Prime Minister said four crore houses were distributed to the poor till now by the Government. Highlighting the difficulties faced by women to defecate in the open, he added that the Government had built more than 12 crore toilets to alleviate the difficulties of women. Emphasising that the Government was focused on ensuring water in the taps of every house through the Har Ghar Jal scheme, the Prime Minister said that even after 75 years of Independence, around 75% or more than 16 crore houses lacked tap-water connections. He added that the Government had ensured 12 crore families tap water connection in the last 5 years and the work was progressing rapidly. Underlining the details of the work done for the poor in the President’s address, Shri Modi said while identifying a problem was not sufficient but was necessary to work with utmost devotion to ensure that a solution was found. He added that his Government, as seen in their work over the last 10 years as well as the President’s address, worked with devotion to ensure solution to the problems.

    Highlighting the previous situation when out of every rupee spent, only 15 paise reaches the intended destination, the Prime Minister underscored that the Government’s model of “Bachat bhi, Vikas bhi”, meaning progress with savings, to ensure that the people’s money is used for the welfare of the people. He added that with the JanDhan-Aadhar-Mobile (JAM) Trinity, the Government started Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) and deposited around ₹40 lakh Crore  in the bank accounts of the people. Underlining that around 10 crore Ghost beneficiaries were benefiting from the welfare schemes of the Government, the Prime Minister said that during the last 10 years, ghost beneficiaries were eliminated to ensure social justice and the actual beneficiaries were added through various schemes. He added that this had saved around ₹3 lakh crore from reaching the wrong hands. Shri Modi highlighted that the Government had extensively utilized technology in public procurement, bringing in transparency through the GeM (Government e-Marketplace) portal, which is now also being used by state Governments. The procurement made through the GeM portal has been more cost-effective compared to traditional procurement methods, resulting in a savings of ₹1,15,000 crore for the Government.

    Shri Modi highlighted that the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was initially ridiculed, with many treating it as a mistake or a sin. Despite the criticism, he proudly stated that due to these cleanliness efforts, in recent years, the Government has earned ₹2,300 crore by selling scrap from Government offices. The Prime Minister invoked Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of trusteeship, emphasizing that they are trustees of the public’s property and are committed to saving every paisa and using it properly. 

    Highlighting that the Government made a significant decision on ethanol blending, the Prime Minister acknowledged that India is not energy independent and relies on external sources. He said that the introduction of ethanol blending reduced the expenditure on petrol and diesel, resulting in savings of ₹1 Lakh crore. The Prime Minister emphasized that this amount has directly benefited the farmers, putting nearly ₹1 lakh crore into their pockets.

    The Prime Minister remarked that while he talks about savings, newspapers used to be filled with headlines about scams worth lakhs and crores. He noted that it has been ten years since such scams have occurred, highlighting that the absence of these scams has saved the country lakhs of crores of rupees. These savings have been directed towards serving the public.

    Emphasising that the various steps taken have resulted in savings of lakhs of crores of rupees, Shri Modi clarified that these funds were not used to build grand palaces but were instead invested in nation-building. He noted that the infrastructure budget was ₹1.8 lakh crore ten years ago before their tenure while today, the infrastructure budget stands at ₹11 lakh crore which the President in her address described how India’s foundation is being strengthened. The Prime Minister highlighted that strong foundations have been laid for development in areas like roads, highways, railways, and rural roads.

    “Savings in the Government treasury are essential, as emphasized through the principle of trusteeship. However, it is equally important that common citizens also benefit from such savings”, said the Prime Minister. He highlighted that schemes should be designed to ensure public savings. Citing the Ayushman Bharat scheme, he mentioned that the expenses borne by citizens due to illnesses have significantly reduced. He stated that the Ayushman Bharat scheme has saved approximately ₹1.2 lakh crore for the people. Underscoring the importance of Jan Aushadhi Kendras, Shri Modi noted that for families with elderly members aged 60-70, medical expenses can be substantial and the Jan Aushadhi Kendras, providing an 80% discount on medicines, have helped families save around ₹30,000 crore on medical expenses.

    Shri Modi highlighted UNICEF’s estimation that families with proper sanitation and toilets save approximately ₹70,000 annually. He emphasized the significant benefits that initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, toilet construction, and access to clean water have brought to ordinary families.

    Emphasizing that the “Nal se Jal” initiative has been praised by the WHO, the Prime Minister remarked that according to the WHO report, access to clean water through the initiative has saved families an average of ₹40,000 annually on medical expenses related to other diseases. He highlighted that there are many such schemes that have helped common citizens save on their expenses.

    Highlighting that the distribution of free grain to millions of citizens has resulted in significant savings for families, Shri Modi said the PM Suryagarh free electricity scheme has saved families an average of ₹25,000 to ₹30,000 annually on electricity expenses. Additionally, any excess electricity generated can be sold for income. The Prime Minister emphasized the significant savings for common citizens through various initiatives. He mentioned the LED bulb campaign, noting that before their tenure, LED bulbs were sold for ₹400 each. Due to the campaign, the price dropped to ₹40, resulting in electricity savings and increased illumination. He added that this campaign has saved citizens approximately ₹20,000 crore. The Prime Minister highlighted that farmers who have scientifically utilized the Soil Health Card have benefited significantly, with savings of ₹30,000 per acre. 

    Touching upon the Income tax, the Prime Minister highlighted that over the past ten years, the Government has reduced income tax rates, thereby increasing savings for the middle class. He highlighted that in 2013-14, only ₹2 lakh was exempted from income tax while today, ₹12 lakh is completely exempt from income tax. The Prime Minister noted that throughout 2014, 2017, 2019, and 2023, the Government has continuously worked on providing relief and with the addition of a standard deduction of ₹75,000, salaried individuals will not have to pay any income tax on earnings up to ₹12.75 lakh from April 1st onwards.

    Criticizing the previous dispensations for being disconnected from the ground realities and engaging in lofty talks, the Prime Minister further pointed out that the leaders who spoke about the 21st century were not even able to fulfill the needs of the 20th century. He expressed his pain at realizing that the country is 40-50 years late in accomplishing tasks that should have been completed decades ago. Shri Modi added that since 2014, when the public gave the opportunity to serve, the Government has focused extensively on the youth, emphasizing their aspirations and creating numerous opportunities for them. As a result, the youth are now proudly showcasing their talents and achievements. The Prime Minister highlighted the opening of the space sector, defense sector, and the launch of the Semiconductor Mission. To promote innovation, several new schemes have been introduced, and the Startup India ecosystem has been fully developed. Additionally, he highlighted that a significant decision in the current budget is the income tax exemption on incomes up to ₹12 lakh, which has garnered much attention. Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced the opening of the nuclear energy sector, which will have long-term positive impacts and outcomes for the nation.

    Emphasizing the importance of AI, 3D printing, robotics, and virtual reality, and underscoring the efforts in the gaming sector, Shri Modi encouraged the nation’s youth to make India the capital of creative gaming worldwide, noting the rapid progress in this area. The Prime Minister remarked that for him, AI stands for not just Artificial Intelligence but also Aspirational India. He highlighted the initiation of 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in schools, where students are astonishing others with their robotics creations. The current budget includes provisions for 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs. The Prime Minister also noted that India’s AI Mission has generated global optimism, and India’s presence on the world AI platform has become significant.

    Underlining that this year’s budget includes investment in the domain of Deep Tech, the Prime Minister emphasized that to progress rapidly in the 21st century, which is entirely technology-driven, it is essential for India to advance quickly in the field of deep tech. He remarked that the Government is continuously working with the future of the youth in mind. However, he criticized certain political parties for deceiving the youth with promises of allowances during elections which they fail to fulfill. He stated that these parties have become a disaster for the future of the youth.

    Remarking on the recent developments in Haryana, noting that the promise of providing jobs without any cost or intermediaries was fulfilled immediately upon forming the Government, the Prime Minister highlighted this as a testament to their commitment. He celebrated Haryana’s historic third consecutive victory, marking it as a significant achievement in the state’s history. Similarly, the Prime Minister acknowledged the historic results in Maharashtra, noting the unprecedented number of seats held by the ruling party, attributing this success to the blessings of the people. 

    The Prime Minister referenced the President’s address, which extensively discussed the completion of 75 years of the Constitution. He emphasized that in addition to the articles of the Constitution, its spirit must be lived and we stand by it. Shri Modi remarked that it is a tradition for the President to outline the Government’s activities of the past year in their address, similar to how Governors present the activities of their respective states in their speeches. He emphasized that the true spirit of the Constitution and democracy was demonstrated when Gujarat celebrated its 50th anniversary, and he was serving as the Chief Minister. He added that during the Golden Jubilee year, he made a significant decision to compile all the speeches given by Governors in the assembly over the past 50 years into a book, which is now available in all libraries. He noted that his administration took pride in publishing these speeches. He underscored their commitment to living by, dedicating themselves to, and understanding the spirit of the Constitution. 

    The Prime Minister remarked that in 2014, when they came to power, there was no recognized opposition party, as none had secured the required number of seats. Many laws allowed the Government to operate independently, and several committees stipulated the inclusion of the Leader of the Opposition, but there was none. The Prime Minister highlighted that, in adherence to the spirit of the Constitution and the values of democracy, they decided to invite the leader of the largest party in the meetings, despite the absence of a recognized opposition. This demonstrated their commitment to the essence of democracy. Shri Modi remarked that in the past, Prime Ministers would handle files independently. However, his administration has included the Leader of the Opposition in these processes and even enacted laws to ensure their participation. The Prime Minister noted that when the Election Commission is formed, the Leader of the Opposition will be part of the decision-making process, demonstrating their commitment to living by the Constitution.

    Highlighting that in Delhi, several places have private museums created by families, Shri Modi noted that when it comes to utilizing public funds, it is important to live by the spirit of democracy and the Constitution. He mentioned the creation of the PM Museum, which showcases the lives and work of all Prime Ministers, from the first to his predecessors. The Prime Minister expressed his desire for the families of the great leaders featured in the PM Museum to visit and suggest additions to enrich the museum further, inspiring the younger generation. He emphasized that living for oneself is common, but living for the Constitution is a higher calling that they are committed to.

    “When power is used for service, it leads to nation-building, but when power becomes a legacy, it destroys people”, said the Prime Minister. He emphasized that they adhere to the spirit of the Constitution and do not engage in divisive politics. He highlighted the importance of national unity and recalled the creation of the world’s tallest statue, the Statue of Unity, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as their commitment to living by the Constitution drives their actions.

    Expressing his concern that it is unfortunate that some people are openly using the language of urban Naxals, Shri Modi highlighted that those who speak this language and challenge the Indian State can neither understand the Constitution nor the unity of the country. 

    Highlighting that for seven decades, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh were deprived of constitutional rights, the Prime Minister noted that this was an injustice to both the Constitution and the people of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. By revoking Article 370, the Prime Minister highlighted that the people of these regions now receive the same rights as other citizens of the country. He emphasized that they understand and live by the spirit of the Constitution, which is why they make such strong decisions.

    Stressing that the Constitution does not allow for discrimination, Shri Modi criticized those who live with a biased mindset, pointing out the difficulties imposed on Muslim women. By abolishing triple talaq, the Prime Minister stated that they have given Muslim daughters their rightful equality as per the Constitution. 

    Emphasizing that whenever their Government has been in power, they have worked with a long-term vision, the Prime Minister expressed concern over the divisive language used by some, driven by despair and hopelessness. He noted that their focus has always been on those who are left behind, as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi. Shri Modi highlighted the creation of separate ministries, such as for the Northeast and for tribal affairs under Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s leadership, demonstrating their commitment to inclusive development.

    Highlighting that India’s southern and eastern coastal states have significant fishing communities, Shri Modi emphasized the importance of considering the well-being of these communities, including those in small inland water areas. The Prime Minister highlighted that it is their Government that created a separate ministry for fisheries to address the needs of fishermen and support their livelihoods.

    Pointing out the potential within the marginalized sections of society, the Prime Minister remarked that by focusing on skill development, new opportunities can be created, leading to a new life for their aspirations. This led to the creation of a separate Ministry for Skill Development. He also highlighted that the primary duty of democracy is to provide opportunities to even the most ordinary citizens. To enhance and strengthen India’s cooperative sector, which connects crores of people, the Government has created a separate Ministry for Cooperatives. The Prime Minister noted that this demonstrates their vision.

    The Prime Minister remarked that discussing caste has become fashionable for some people and for the past 30-35 years, OBC MPs from various parties have been demanding constitutional status for the OBC Commission. He added that it was their Government that granted constitutional status to the OBC Commission. He highlighted that the Backward Classes Commission is now part of the constitutional framework.

    The Prime Minister remarked that they have worked steadfastly to provide maximum opportunities for SC, ST, and OBC communities in every sector. He posed important questions to the nation, asking if there has ever been a time when three MPs from the same SC family served in Parliament simultaneously, or three MPs from the same ST family at the same time. He highlighted the stark difference between the words and actions of some individuals, indicating a vast gap between their promises and reality.

    The Prime Minister highlighted there is a need for the empowerment of SC and ST communities while noting the importance of maintaining unity without creating social tensions. He provided an example by noting that before 2014, there were 387 medical colleges in the country. Today, the number has increased to 780, resulting in a rise in available seats. He pointed out that before 2014, there were 7,700 MBBS seats for SC students. After ten years of work, the number has increased to 17,000, thereby significantly improving opportunities for the Dalit community to become doctors, without creating social tensions and while respecting each other’s dignity. Shri Modi highlighted that before 2014, there were 3,800 MBBS seats for ST students. Today, this number has increased to approximately 9,000. He also noted that before 2014, there were fewer than 14,000 MBBS seats for OBC students. Today, this number has risen to approximately 32,000, enabling 32,000 OBC students to become doctors. The Prime Minister highlighted that over the past ten years, a new university has been established every week, a new ITI has been opened every day, and a new college has been inaugurated every two days. He emphasized the significant increase in opportunities for SC, ST, and OBC youth.

    “We are committed to ensuring 100% saturation of all schemes so that no beneficiary is left out”, exclaimed Shri Modi. He highlighted that everyone who is entitled to benefits should receive them, rejecting the outdated model where only a few are favored. The Prime Minister criticized the politics of appeasement and stated that to build a developed India, the country must move away from appeasement to a path of satisfaction. He stressed that every section of society should receive their due without any discrimination. According to him, achieving 100% saturation means true social justice, secularism, and respect for the Constitution.

    Stressing that the spirit of the Constitution is to ensure better health for all, Shri Modi noted that today is Cancer Day, and health is being discussed extensively across the country and the world. He remarked that some individuals, driven by political selfishness, are obstructing the provision of healthcare services to the poor and elderly. The Prime Minister noted that 30,000 hospitals, including specialized private hospitals, are connected to the Ayushman Bharat scheme, offering free treatment to Ayushman cardholders. However, certain political parties, due to their narrow mindset and flawed policies, have closed the doors of these hospitals to the poor, affecting cancer patients. Citing a recent study by the public health journal Lancet, which stated that timely cancer treatment has begun under the Ayushman scheme, Shri Modi emphasized the Government’s seriousness in cancer screening and treatment, highlighting that early diagnosis and treatment can save cancer patients. The Lancet credited the Ayushman scheme, noting significant progress in this direction in India. 

    Highlighting the significant step taken in this budget to make cancer medicines more affordable, Shri Modi mentioned it was an important decision that will benefit cancer patients, especially on Cancer Day. He urged all honorable MPs to utilize this benefit for patients in their constituencies. He noted the challenges faced by patients due to the limited number of hospitals and announced the decision to establish 200 daycare centers. These centers will provide substantial relief to both patients and their families.

    Touching upon the discussions on foreign policy addressed during the President’s speech, the Prime Minister noted that some individuals feel the need to speak on foreign policy to appear mature, even if it harms the country. He suggested that those truly interested in foreign policy should read the book “JFK’s Forgotten Crisis” by a renowned foreign policy scholar. The book details important events and discussions between India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and then US President John F. Kennedy during challenging times. 

    The Prime Minister expressed his disappointment at the disrespect shown towards the President, a woman from a poor family, following her address. He emphasized that he understands political frustration, but questioned the reasons behind such disrespect towards the President. Remarking that India is moving forward by embracing the mantra of women-led development, leaving behind regressive mindsets, Shri Modi emphasized that if women, who constitute half of the population, are given full opportunities, India can progress at twice the speed. His conviction has only strengthened after 25 years of working in this field. He highlighted that in the past ten years, 10 crore women, primarily from marginalized and rural backgrounds, have joined self-help groups (SHGs). These women’s capabilities have increased, their social status has improved, and the Government has enhanced their assistance up to ₹20 lakh to help them further their work. The Prime Minister noted that these efforts have had a highly positive impact on the rural economy.

    Highlighting the discussion of the Lakhpati Didi campaign in the President’s address, the Prime Minister noted that since the formation of the new Government for the third time, over 50 lakh Lakhpati Didis have been registered. He remarked that since the inception of this initiative, approximately 1.25 crore women have become Lakhpati Didis, and the goal is to make three crore women Lakhpati Didis through economic programs. The Prime Minister noted the significant psychological shift in villages, where women operating drones, known as Namo Drone Didis, have changed the community’s perception of women. These Drone Didis are earning lakhs of rupees by working in fields. He also highlighted the role of the Mudra Yojana in empowering women, with crores of women entering the industrial sector for the first time and taking on entrepreneurial roles.

    Emphasising that out of the 4 crore homes provided to families, approximately 75% have been registered in the names of women, the Prime Minister emphasized “this change is laying the foundation for a strong and empowered 21st-century India”. “The goal of a developed India cannot be achieved without strengthening the rural economy”, exclaimed the Prime Minister. He emphasized the importance of agriculture in the rural economy and noted that farmers are a strong pillar of developed India. Over the past decade, the agriculture budget has increased tenfold since 2014, marking a significant jump.

    The Prime Minister remarked that before 2014, farmers faced difficulties and even police action when demanding urea. He added that they had to stand in long queues overnight, and fertilizer meant for farmers often ended up in black markets. Shri Modi said today, farmers receive ample fertilizer. He added that during the COVID-19 crisis, supply chains were disrupted, and global prices soared. Shri Modi said that despite India’s dependency on imported urea, the Government managed to bear the cost. He added that a bag of urea costing the Government ₹3,000 is provided to farmers at less than ₹300. He highlighted that their continuous efforts ensure maximum benefits for farmers.

    “In the past ten years, ₹12 lakh crore has been spent to ensure affordable fertilizer for farmers and through the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, about ₹3.5 lakh crore has been directly transferred to farmers’ accounts”, said Shri Modi. He highlighted the record increase in MSP and stated that procurement has tripled over the past decade. He noted that farmer loans have been made more accessible and affordable, with a threefold increase in the amount of credit provided. Shri Modi emphasized that during natural disasters, farmers were previously left to fend for themselves, but under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, ₹2 lakh crore has been disbursed to farmers. He highlighted the unprecedented steps taken in irrigation over the past decade, referencing Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s comprehensive and inclusive vision for water management. He mentioned that over 100 major irrigation projects, pending for decades, have been completed to ensure water reaches farmers’ fields. The Prime Minister noted that Dr. Ambedkar advocated for river linking, a vision that went unfulfilled for years. Today, projects like the Ken-Betwa Link Project and the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project have commenced. He also shared his successful experience in Gujarat with similar river-linking initiatives.

    “Every Indian should dream of seeing Made in India food packets on dining tables around the world”, said the Prime Minister. He expressed joy that Indian tea and coffee are now gaining popularity globally, and turmeric has seen a surge in demand post-COVID period. He noted that in the coming times, Indian processed seafood and Bihar’s makhana will also make their mark worldwide. The Prime Minister highlighted that India’s millets, known as Shri Anna, will enhance India’s reputation in international markets.

    Stressing the importance of Future Ready cities for a developed India, Shri Modi noted that the country is rapidly urbanizing, which should be seen as an opportunity rather than a challenge. He highlighted that the expansion of infrastructure leads to the creation of opportunities, as increased connectivity boosts possibilities. The Prime Minister mentioned the inauguration of the first Namo Rail connecting Delhi and Uttar Pradesh and expressed his experience of traveling on it. He stressed the need for such connectivity and infrastructure to reach all major cities in India, reflecting the nation’s future direction. He remarked that Delhi’s metro rail network has doubled, and now metro networks are expanding to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. The Prime Minister proudly highlighted that India’s metro network has surpassed 1,000 kilometers, with an additional 1,000 kilometers currently under development, showcasing the rapid progress. He highlighted several initiatives taken by the Indian Government to reduce pollution, including the introduction of 12,000 electric buses across the country, providing a significant service to Delhi as well.

    Mentioning the expansion of the Gig Economy in major cities, with lakhs of young people joining, the Prime Minister announced the registration of gig workers on the e-Shram portal and the provision of an ID card upon verification. He also stated that gig workers would benefit from the Ayushman scheme, ensuring they have access to healthcare. He estimated that there are currently around one crore gig workers in the country and emphasized the Government’s ongoing efforts to support this sector.

    The Prime Minister highlighted the significant job opportunities presented by the MSME sector, emphasizing its potential for employment. He remarked that small industries symbolize a self-reliant India and contribute immensely to the country’s economy. The Government’s policy focuses on simplicity, convenience, and support for MSMEs, with an emphasis on Mission Manufacturing to boost the manufacturing sector and create jobs for young people through skill development.

    Mentioning that several initiatives have been launched to improve the MSME sector, Shri Modi said that the MSME criteria established in 2006 were updated twice in the past decade, with significant upgrades in 2020 and in this budget. He highlighted the financial support provided to MSMEs, addressing the challenge of formal financial resources, and the special support given to the MSME sector during the COVID crisis. The Prime Minister noted the focus on industries like the toy and textile sectors, ensuring cash flow and providing loans without collateral, resulting in job creation and job security. He mentioned the introduction of customized credit cards and credit guarantee coverage to ease the business operations of small industries. He proudly shared that before 2014, India imported toys, but today, Indian toy manufacturers are exporting toys worldwide, with a significant reduction in imports and a 239% increase in exports. The Prime Minister highlighted that various sectors operated by MSMEs are gaining global recognition, with Made in India products like clothing, electronics, and electrical goods becoming part of daily life in other countries.

    The Prime Minister emphasized that the dream of a developed India is not just a dream of the Government but the dream of 140 crore Indians. He highlighted that India is moving forward with great confidence and urged everyone to contribute their energy towards realizing this dream. He noted that there are global examples of countries becoming developed within 20-25 years, and India, with its demographic advantage, democracy, and demand, can achieve the same by 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence. 

    The Prime Minister stressed the need to achieve greater goals and remain committed to creating a modern, capable, and developed India for many years to come. He called on all political parties, leaders, and citizens to prioritize the nation above all and work together towards the dream of a developed India. Concluding his address, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude and thanked the President for the address and extended his appreciation to the members of the House. 

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2099882) Visitor Counter : 89

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC, India organises the meeting of the Core Group on Children focused on ‘Human rights of children in conflict with law’

    Source: Government of India (2)

    NHRC, India organises the meeting of the Core Group on Children focused on ‘Human rights of children in conflict with law’

    NHRC, India Chairperson, Justice Shri V Ramasubramanian says authenticated data on the children in conflict with the law necessary for understanding the problems and redressal

    The meeting recommended to set up a working group of experts to check and authenticate the available data with various agencies related to the children in conflict with law

    The Chairperson emphasises replication of diversion programmes for children in conflict with the law on the lines of the UNICEF working group report for their effective re-integration into society without a criminal record

    Asks the experts in the field of Juvenile Justice Care to segregate their suggestions for improving statutory laws, change in rules or by SOPs

    NHRC, India Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal stresses viewing the juveniles as victims of circumstances rather than mere offenders, for their rehabilitation

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 8:15PM by PIB Delhi

    Justice Shri V Ramasubramanian, Chairperson, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India today said that it is necessary to have authentic and verified data on the children in conflict with the law to have a clear understanding of their problems and make suggestions to address them. He was chairing the meeting of the Commission’s Core Group on Children focused on the theme ‘Human rights of children in conflict with law’ in the presence of Member, Smt Vijaya Bharathi Sayani, Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal, senior officers and expert speakers at its premises in New Delhi today. The meeting was attended by a number of senior officers and experts working in the field.

    Justice Ramasubramanian said that going by the discussion on the subject, two major concerns have emerged including how to collect data and how to authenticate the data already available on the children in conflict with law. Therefore, he concurred with the suggestion to constitute a working group of experts to check and authenticate the available data related to the children in conflict with the law, particularly their age and numbers and not necessarily their identities in coordination and consultation with the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and different High Courts.

    The NHRC, India Chairperson also asked the experts working in the field of Juvenile Justice Care to segregate their suggestions to bring improvements by amendments in statutes, changes in rules or by SOPs, as part of the long-term and short-term measures to bring improvements in the area of the Juvenile Justice System. He also concurred with the suggestion to organise State-wise meetings of the Juvenile Justice Boards, District Legal Services Authority, State Legal Services Authority and the NHRC to find a way forward in terms of their counseling, rehabilitation and reintegration into families.

    Referring to the report of a working group called ‘the Commission for the Application of Alternative Measures’ under the auspices of UNICEF titled ‘Rights of Children in Conflict with the Law 2007’, the NHRC Chairperson expressed the hope that the NHRC core group could develop solutions for Juvenile Justice Care on those lines which included recommendations for developing diversion programmes;

    i.) Juvenile offenders must admit to the crime;
    ii.) Juvenile offenders should not be placed in custody to participate in diversion programmes;
    iii.) Juvenile offenders are entitled to a court procedure if they or their guardians disagree with the diversion measures;
    iv.) Juvenile offenders may withdraw from the diversion process at any time and opt for the formal court procedure.

    The diversion programme includes seven components: victim-offender mediation, admonition, local community corrections councils, joint family meetings, circle trials, juvenile courts, and community service.

    The report argues that while crimes are often seen as offences against the state, they should also be viewed from the victim’s perspective, seeking reconciliation. It suggests that allowing juveniles to make amends to society can help them reintegrate faster, without a criminal record, which would help them avoid future employment or social exclusion issues.

    Before this, NHRC, India Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal said that the Commission is committed to ensuring the protection and promotion of child rights. In this context, it has been organizing various consultations on the different thematic issues of the human rights of children and issuing advisories also from time to time. The discussion on the human rights of children in conflict with the law has also been organized to identify the challenges, to suggest measures for improvement in the Juvenile Justice System with a specific focus on juveniles in adult prisons, juveniles in correctional homes and measures for rehabilitation of juveniles in conflict with the law. He stressed that juveniles must be viewed as victims of circumstances rather than mere offenders, calling for a focus on rehabilitation measures that would help reintegrate them into society, offering them opportunities for a better future.

    NHRC, India Director, Lt. Col Virender Singh gave an overview of the meeting and the three critical areas of discussion significant to the children in conflict with law.

    A number of experts and senior officers like Shri Rajeev Kumar Sharma, Director General, BPR&; Ms. Isha Pandey, DIG, BPR&D; Shri Balkrishan Goel, NHRC Special Monitor on Children; Shri Amod K. Kanth, Founder and Mentor Prayas Juvenile Aid Centre (JAC) Society; Prof. Vijay Raghavan, Tata Institute of Social Sciences; Shri Sourabh Ghosh, CRY; Ms Swagata Raha, Legal Researcher, & Head Restorative Practices Enfold India; Adv. Anant Kumar Asthana, Child Rights Lawyer; Ms Deepshikha, Prayas Juvenile Aid Centre (JAC) Society, among others, gave their suggestions and inputs. NHRC DG (I), Shri Ram Prasad Meena and Registrar (Law), Shri Joginder Singh also attended the meeting.

    Some of the other suggestions emanated from the discussions are as follows;

    • Make information on proceedings involving Children in Conflict with the Law available on a portal, without revealing their identity;
    • Establish a cadre of child protection officials in all States;
    • Identify and delineate responsibilities within the child protection workforce, and fill vacant positions to strengthen the child care mechanism;
    • Conduct a social audit of Child Care Institutions, ensuring adequate manpower, including counselors;
    • Encourage institutional contributions to engage children in useful activities;
    • Strengthen the Legal Aid Mechanism for Children in Conflict with Law;
    • Increase ‘Community Service’ as a correctional measure for child offenders;
    • Revamp rehabilitation and social reintegration programs for Children in Conflict with Law;
    • Introduce joint training for stakeholders involved in child welfare, focusing on the behavioural aspects of child offenders;
    • Collate and publicise best practices for the welfare of child offenders across the country;
    • Increase funding and staff recruitment for Child Care Institutions;
    • Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to streamline the process.

    The Commission will further deliberate upon these suggestions and more inputs to finalize its recommendations to protect the human rights of children in conflict with law, in the country.

    ***

    NSK

     

    (Release ID: 2099833) Visitor Counter : 33

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: APEDA’s financial assistance schemes boosts 47.3% surge in India’s fruit and vegetable exports

    Source: Government of India (2)

    APEDA’s financial assistance schemes boosts 47.3% surge in India’s fruit and vegetable exports

    APEDA strengthens exporter growth with new schemes for infrastructure, quality, and market development

    India’s fruit and vegetable exports reach 123 countries, with 17 new market added in 3 years

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 7:58PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Commerce through Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) provides financial assistance to its member exporters of APEDA from across the country, for export promotion of its Scheduled products, including for Fruits & vegetables, under Agriculture and Processed Foods Export Promotion Scheme of APEDA for the 15th Finance Commission Cycle (2021-22 to 2025-26) in following three broad areas:

    Scheme for infrastructure Development – Financial assistance for setting up of packhouse facilities with packing / grading lines, pre-cooling unit with cold storage and refrigerated transportation etc., cable system for handling of crops like banana, pre-shipment treatment facilities such as irradiation, vapor heat treatment, hot water dip treatment and common infrastructure facilities, reefer vans and missing gap in the existing infrastructure of individual exporters.

    Scheme for Quality Development – Financial assistance for purchase of laboratory testing equipment, installation of quality management system, handheld devices for capturing farm level coordinates for traceability and testing of water, soil, residues and pesticides etc.

    Scheme for Market Promotion – The assistance covers participation of exporters in international trade fairs, organizing buyer seller meets and developing packaging standards for new products and upgrading the existing packaging standards.

    The details of financial assistance guidelines are available at APEDA Website www.apeda.gov.in under the “Scheme” tab.

    As a result of these initiatives, there has been a growth of 47.3%, in the volume of exports of fruits and vegetables between the period 2019-20 to 2023-24.

    Export data of fruits and vegetables in last five years

    		  

     

    		  

    Country: All

     

    		  

    Product: Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

     

    		  

     

    Value In USD Million

    Qty In Thousand MT

     

    		  

    Products

    2019-20

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2019-20

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    		  

    Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

    1,282.43

    1,342.13

    1,527.63

    1,635.95

    1,814.58

    2,659.48

    3,148.08

    3,376.25

    4,335.68

    3,911.95

     

    		  

    Source: DGCIS

     

    		  

     

    Growth in terms of Volume in the last five years =47.30%

    Growth in terms of Value in the last five years= 41.50 %

    The Government maintains the record of total exports of fruits and vegetables from India. The export figures of States are compiled on the basis of the State-of-Origin code reported by the exporters in the shipping bills. Thus, the state wise data of exports of Fruits and vegetables is not available as the same is not validated by DGCI&S. However, the major states producing Fruits and vegetables are Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Karnataka.

    India’s Export of Mango and Onion to World (By Variety)

    Product

    Variety

    USD Million

    Qty in MT

    2019-20

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2019-20

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    Mango

    Other Mangoes

    0.00

    25.42

    23.48

    33.26

    36.18

    0.00

    15795.09

    17448.90

    17257.28

    23786.16

    Kesar

    0.00

    2.92

    6.91

    4.97

    11.25

    0.00

    983.73

    2319.08

    1749.97

    3787.01

    Alphonso (Hapus)

    0.00

    6.08

    10.09

    7.84

    8.68

    0.00

    3195.86

    5994.86

    2829.76

    2673.39

    Banganapalli

    0.00

    1.46

    3.01

    2.00

    3.20

    0.00

    830.55

    1674.04

    856.91

    1081.68

    Chausa

    0.00

    0.05

    0.05

    0.03

    0.24

    0.00

    40.98

    25.64

    19.72

    488.26

    Langda

    0.00

    0.08

    0.16

    0.12

    0.19

    0.00

    48.99

    122.16

    70.02

    81.94

    Dasheri

    0.00

    0.09

    0.11

    0.06

    0.17

    0.00

    49.50

    75.92

    34.70

    75.54

    Totapuri

    0.00

    0.07

    0.17

    0.20

    0.16

    0.00

    47.47

    151.01

    116.60

    91.95

    Mallika

    0.00

    0.03

    0.09

    0.06

    0.07

    0.00

    41.40

    61.16

    28.81

    38.17

    Mangoes , Fresh/Dried,

    56.11

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    49658.68

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    Total Mangoes

    56.11

    36.20

    44.07

    48.54

    60.14

    49658.68

    21033.57

    27872.77

    22963.77

    32104.10

    Onion

    Other Onions Fresh of Chilled

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    434.78

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    1606683.97

    Rose Onions Fresh of Chilled

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    38.94

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

    110755.38

    Onions, Fresh/Chilled

    324.20

    378.49

    460.56

    561.38

    0.00

    1149896.84

    1578016.57

    1537496.85

    2525258.35

    0.00

    Total Onions

    324.20

    378.49

    460.56

    561.38

    473.72

    1149896.84

    1578016.57

    1537496.85

    2525258.35

    1717439.35

     

    Source: DGCIS

     

    Note :- ITC HS Code with (*) mark of the Commodity is either dropped or re-allocated

     

    In FY 2023-24, India’s exports of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables reached 123 countries. In the last 3 years, Indian fresh produce entered 17 new markets, some of which are Brazil, Georgia, Uganda, Papua New Guinea, Czech Republic, Uganda, Ghana etc. This has been achieved through a host of measures such as participation in international trade fairs, actively pursuing market access negotiations, organizing buyer seller meets etc.

    Department of Commerce is working in close coordination with the MoA&FW in prioritizing agriculture products for market access negotiations to reach new markets. As a result, India has achieved new market access in following commodities in the last three years:

    • Indian Potatoes and Onions in Serbia
    • Baby corn and fresh banana in Canada
    • Pomegranate arils in Australia, USA, Serbia, and New Zealand
    • Whole pomegranates in Australia via Irradiation treatment

     

    The barriers in accessing new markets differ from product to product and are dynamic in nature. Some of the major barriers in accessing new markets for fruits & vegetables are:

    • Long geographic distance from India raising the costs of logistics.
    • Delay in grant of market access by importing countries for certain products.
    • Stringent Phyto-sanitary requirements imposed by some importing countries.
    • Delay in registration of enterprises in certain countries.

    To address the above issues, various steps are being taken by the Department of Commerce:

    • For expand market access to our products, MoA&FW & APEDA have identified key products and key countries for intensifying market access negotiations.
    • Development of Sea protocols for horticulture products to reduce logistic expenses and to enable larger volume of exports.
    • Regular follow up with the counterpart authorities of importing countries with support of our Missions abroad for registration of facilities and market access negotiations.
    • For meeting stringent Phyto-sanitary requirements, setting up of traceability system and a system of farmer and facility registration.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan/Asmitabha Manna

     

     

    (Release ID: 2099814) Visitor Counter : 20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces new food benefits available for people in Los Angeles impacted by recent fires

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 4, 2025

    What you need to know: People impacted by the recent fires in Los Angeles may be eligible for new food benefits. A family of four with a monthly income up to $3,529 per month may be eligible to receive $975.

    Los Angeles, California – As part of California’s ongoing wildfire response and recovery efforts, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that individuals and families directly impacted by the recent fires in Los Angeles County – living in the zip codes listed below – may be eligible to receive Disaster CalFresh food benefits.

    A family of four with a monthly income up to $3,529 per month may be eligible to receive a one-time $975 food benefit through this program, which is available to those who lived or worked in a fire-impacted area within Los Angeles County on January 7, 2025.

    “California’s response and recovery efforts will continue to be guided by the needs of people throughout the impacted region. My administration is focused on serving the individuals and families who need our help the most, which means creating new and expanded benefit programs. Starting February 10th, I encourage eligible people to apply for D-CalFresh benefits, which will allow more families to put more food on the table.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    “No family should have to worry about how they’re going to put food on the table, especially during a crisis. D-CalFresh food benefits will help ensure that those most in need have access to critical assistance. Angelenos, please apply and know that we will continue to stand with you—no family should have to navigate this hardship alone.”

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) Secretary Kim Johnson: “The California Health & Human Services Agency and its departments, in partnership with our federal, local, and other state partners, are committed to helping people impacted by these historic wildfires.”

    Who can apply?

    Individuals and families who lived or worked in a fire impacted area within Los Angeles County on January 7, 2025 may be eligible for Disaster CalFresh food benefits. Wildfire impacted areas include the following ZIP codes: 

    • Eaton: 91104, 91206, 91103, 91016, 91010, 91001, 91214, 91101, 91107, 91006, 91208, 91020, 91105, 91011, 91024, 91008, 91007, 91042, and 91106 (total = 19)
    • Hughes: 91334, 91350, 91355, 91384, 91390, 93015, 93040, 93225, 93243, 93532, 93536, and 00018 (total = 12)
    • Hurst: 91342, 91344, 91321, 91326, 91381, and 91311 (total = 6)
    • Palisades: 90049, 91302, 91301, 90290, 90272, 90265, 90402, 90073, 90077, 90095, 90401, 90403, 90404, 91316, 91356, 91367, 91403, 91436, and 91340 (total = 19)
    • Other (qualifying power outages): 91750, 93510 (total = 2)

    Additionally, at least one person in the household must not already be receiving regular CalFresh food benefits and must have experienced at least one of the following as a direct result of the severe wildfires:

    • Money was spent because of the wildfires or related power outage,
    • Money was lost from work because of the wildfires,
    • Money was spent because of damage to a home or business, or
    • Food loss alone.

    Individuals already participating in CalFresh and living in these zip codes do not need to apply for Disaster CalFresh benefits, but may be eligible to receive supplemental benefits, which bring the household up to the maximum benefit amount based on their household size.

    How to apply

    Households may only apply for Disaster CalFresh between February 10-14, 2025 and February 18-19, 2025 by calling 866-488-8482 (M-F, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) or visiting a Los Angeles DPSS office to apply in person. In most cases, benefits will be available within three days of the date of a qualifying interview.

    Benefits will be provided via an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which is like a debit card that can be used to purchase food items at grocery stores and other authorized retailers. If applicants are approved, the county will tell them when and where to pick up their EBT card.

    Other food supports for survivors 

    California has also secured waivers to support people receiving CalFresh food benefits in the impacted region. People receiving CalFresh can use their benefits to purchase hot foods in Los Angeles and surrounding counties, as impacted individuals and families may not have access to food storage and/or cooking facilities. This waiver will be in effect through February 8, 2025.

    Also, people receiving CalFresh who lost food due to the fires that was purchased with their benefits have an extended period of time to request replacement benefits. This waiver will be in effect through February 5, 2025. CalFresh recipients may contact the Los Angeles DPSS at (866) 613-3777 (M-F, 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.) to request replacement benefits.

    California also released $1 million in emergency reserve funding that is providing emergency food boxes and potable water to people in need, in partnership with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. People can find a list of food distributions in their area here.

    Recent news

    Feb 4, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Mark Tollefson, of Rancho Cordova, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the California High-Speed Rail Authority. Tollefson has been Undersecretary of the California State…

    Feb 4, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today issued an executive order removing bureaucratic barriers, extending deadlines, and providing critical regulatory relief to help LA fire survivors rebuild, access essential services, and recover more quickly. LOS…

    Feb 3, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring February 2025 as Black History Month.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONThis month, we pay homage to the rich history and contributions of…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs new executive order to fast-track more relief for LA fire survivors

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 4, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today issued an executive order removing bureaucratic barriers, extending deadlines, and providing critical regulatory relief to help LA fire survivors rebuild, access essential services, and recover more quickly.

    LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom today signed a new executive order to cut red tape by suspending regulations and extending deadlines to assist in helping survivors recover quickly from the Los Angeles area firestorms. The order removes bureaucratic barriers, extends deadlines, and provides critical regulatory relief to help families rebuild, access essential services, and recover more quickly by waiving regulations that could make it more difficult for survivors to access important services, such as child care, education, rental housing, health care, and obtaining tax relief.

    “As Los Angeles rises, we will continue to remove the barriers that would stand in the way. This executive order provides targeted relief from regulations that impact victims and would otherwise slow this community’s quick recovery.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The executive order issued by Governor Newsom today:

    • Suspends caps on administrative costs for state-funded preschool programs and Community Development Block Grants.

    • Extends deadlines for families to submit documentation for state-funded preschool and child care programs.

    • Extends deadlines for reporting requirements for state-funded preschool and child care programs.

    • Extends deadlines for health care providers to submit requests to the Department of Health Care Services for changes in scope of service.

    • Allows the Department of Developmental Services to suspend certain legal requirements to ensure individuals with developmental disabilities continue to receive services without interruption.

    • Extends deadlines for families to submit eligibility documentation for participation in CalWORKs program. 

    • Extends deadlines for public officials in Los Angeles County to submit FPPC reports.

    • Terminates suspensions of regulatory requirements for private firefighters.

    • Extends the deadline for individuals claiming disaster-related tax relief to submit required documentation.

    • Adds three new ZIP codes to prior executive orders providing tax relief and prohibiting real estate speculation.

    • Exempts housing in zip codes with high fair market values, which has not previously been on the rental market, from statutory rent caps to help ensure that they are available for rental during recovery efforts.

    • Expands rental price gouging protections to leases of any length, rather than only leases of one year or less, in response to examples of leases being offered for 366 days to avoid the protections.

    Recovery and rebuilding, faster than ever

    Governor Newsom has launched historic recovery and rebuilding efforts, cutting red tape and suspending regulations to help make the recovery process faster than ever before:

    • Cutting red tape to help rebuild Los Angeles faster and stronger. Governor Newsom issued an executive order to streamline the rebuilding of homes and businesses destroyed — suspending permitting and review requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act. The Governor also issued an executive order further cutting red tape by reiterating that permitting requirements under the California Coastal Act are suspended for rebuilding efforts and directing the Coastal Commission not to issue guidance or take any action that interferes with or conflicts with the Governor’s executive orders.

    • Providing tax and mortgage relief to those impacted by the fires. California postponed the individual tax filing deadline to October 15 for Los Angeles County taxpayers. Additionally, the state extended the January 31, 2025, sales and use tax filing deadline for Los Angeles County taxpayers until April 30 — providing critical tax relief for businesses. Governor Newsom suspended penalties and interest on late property tax payments for a year, effectively extending the state property tax deadline. The Governor also worked with state– and federally-chartered banks that have committed to providing mortgage relief for survivors in certain zip codes.

    • Fast-tracking temporary housing and protecting tenants. To help provide necessary shelter for those immediately impacted by the firestorms, the Governor issued an executive order to make it easier to streamline the construction of accessory dwelling units, allow for more temporary trailers and other housing, and suspend fees for mobile home parks. Governor Newsom also issued an executive order that prohibits landlords in Los Angeles County from evicting tenants for sharing their rental with survivors displaced by the Los Angeles-area firestorms.

    • Mobilizing debris removal and cleanup. With an eye toward recovery, the Governor directed fast action on debris removal work and mitigating the potential for mudslides and flooding in areas burned. He also signed an executive order to allow expert federal hazmat crews to start cleaning up properties as a key step in getting people back to their properties safely. The Governor also issued an executive order to help mitigate risk of mudslides and flooding and protect communities by hastening efforts to remove debris, bolster flood defenses, and stabilize hillsides in affected areas. 

    • Safeguarding survivors from price gouging. Governor Newsom expanded restrictions to protect survivors from illegal price hikes on rent, hotel and motel costs, and building materials or construction. Report violations to the Office of the Attorney General here.

    • Directing immediate state relief. The Governor signed legislation providing over $2.5 billion to immediately support ongoing emergency response efforts and to jumpstart recovery efforts for Los Angeles. California quickly launched CA.gov/LAfires as a single hub of information and resources to support those impacted and bolsters in-person Disaster Recovery Centers. The Governor also launched LA Rises, a unified recovery initiative that brings together private sector leaders to support rebuilding efforts. 

    • Getting kids back in the classroom. Governor Newsom signed an executive order to quickly assist displaced students in the Los Angeles area and bolster schools affected by the firestorms.

    • Protecting victims from real estate speculators. The Governor issued an executive order to protect firestorm victims from predatory land speculators making aggressive and unsolicited cash offers to purchase their property.

    • Helping businesses and workers get back on their feet. The Governor issued an executive order to support small businesses and workers, by providing relief to help businesses recover quickly by deferring annual licensing fees and waiving other requirements that may impose barriers to recovery.

    Get help today

    For those Californians impacted by the firestorms in Los Angeles, there are resources available. Californians can go to CA.gov/LAfires – a hub for information and resources from state, local and federal government.  

    Individuals and business owners who sustained losses from wildfires in Los Angeles County can apply for disaster assistance:

    • Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
    • By calling 800-621-3362
    • By using the FEMA smart phone application
    • Assistance is available in over 40 languages
    • If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

    Recent news

    Feb 3, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring February 2025 as Black History Month.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONThis month, we pay homage to the rich history and contributions of…

    Feb 2, 2025

    News What you need to know: At Governor Gavin Newsom’s directive, crews have been working around the clock to install nearly 60 miles of emergency protective materials in the recent Los Angeles-area burn scars. Los Angeles, California – As another storm system is…

    Feb 1, 2025

    News LOS ANGELES — As recovery efforts continue in the wake of the early January firestorm, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of additional state law enforcement resources to help Los Angeles maintain checkpoints and keep the Pacific Palisades…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ashmore — Meteghan RCMP charges two people after search warrant execution

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Meteghan RCMP has charged two people in relation to a drug trafficking investigation.

    On January 29, Meteghan RCMP, with assistance from Digby RCMP, the Yarmouth General Investigative Section, and Police Dog Services, executed a search warrant on a residence in Ashmore.

    At the home, officers safely arrested a man and a woman and seized a quantity of cocaine, methamphetamine, unstamped cigarettes, and cash. Two handguns, one pellet rifle, three pellet guns, a digital scale, and cellular phones were also seized.

    Benjamin Julian Davis Carpenter, 36, and Kassidy Marie Carpenter, 27, both of Ashmore, have been charged with:

    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (cocaine)
    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (methamphetamine)
    • Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
    • Selling, etc., of Tobacco Products and Raw Leaf Tobacco
    • Possession of Tobacco Product not Stamped (Excise Act)

    Both Benjamin Carpenter and Kassidy Carpenter were released on conditions pending a first appearance in Digby Provincial Court on April 7.

    Nova Scotians are encouraged to contact their nearest RCMP detachment or local police to report crime, including the illegal sale of drugs, in their communities. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso Votes to Confirm Doug Collins as VA Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, spoke on the Senate Floor prior to voting to confirm former Congressman Doug Collins, President Donald J. Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

    Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.

    Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:

    “Today, the Senate will vote to confirm former Congressman Doug Collins. Congressman Collins is the nominee to be the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

    “Caring for our veterans is a top priority for President Trump and Republicans.

    “As Abraham Lincoln famously said, our nation has a duty to ‘care for him who shall have born the battle.’

    “That is why I am glad President Trump nominated Congressman Collins.

    “Congressman Collins knows what it means to be a veteran because he is a veteran.

    “He deployed to Iraq as a military chaplain. He visited wounded servicemembers in the hospital. He prayed with them. He comforted them.

    “In Congress, Congressman Collins continued to serve our veterans.

    “Congressman Collins received bipartisan support from the Senate Veteran Affairs Committee. The vote was 18 in favor and only 1 against. Looking at his record, it is obvious why.

    “Congressman Collins will improve veterans’ access to care, not impede it. He will also address the alarming rate of veteran suicide and homelessness.

    “As he told the Committee, ‘We will not stop until we succeed on behalf of the men and women who have worn the uniform.’

    “Congressman Doug Collins will pursue his mission with duty and devotion.

    “He has my full support.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on lives lost to toxic drugs in 2024

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Josie Osborne, Minister of Health, has released the following statement about the BC Coroners Service report on illicit drug toxicity deaths in 2024: 

    “Today, we acknowledge the 2,253 people in British Columbia who lost their lives to poisoned drugs in 2024. Behind every number is a child, parent, sibling, friend or neighbour, and their loss is felt deeply by those who knew and loved them. The toxic-drug crisis also continues to take a heavy toll on the people working on the front lines who care for and support many of the people we’ve lost. We must continue to work together to prevent further heartbreak and save lives.

    “This public health emergency touches every corner of our province. Addiction can be influenced by many factors, including housing challenges, the cost of living, mental and physical pain, and intergenerational trauma. By addressing these issues openly and expanding supports, we can help reduce the stigma around substance use and encourage individuals to seek help rather than struggle in addiction.

    “Although there is a decrease in deaths, 152 in November 2024 and 147 in December 2024, this in no way diminishes grief that permeates our communities.

    “Our government is continuing to expand mental-health and addictions care, including early intervention and prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery services, support and complex-care housing, and more. We are building up a seamless system of care so everyone, no matter where they live or what their circumstances, has access to the care they need.

    “Most recently, we announced more substance-use treatment beds in communities throughout the province so more people can get the support they need. These beds are part of a record expansion of mental-health and substance-use care for those who need it most, including underserved groups and those in rural and remote communities. 

    “We know there is still more to do. By working together and continuing to expand life-saving services, more people can find their pathway to recovery.”

    Learn More:

    For more information about mental-health and substance-use supports in B.C., visit: https://helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca/

    To learn how B.C. is building better mental-health and addictions care, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/BetterCare

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Women under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 7:12PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government had set a target of mobilizing 10 crore rural households into SHGs under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY – NRLM) by 2023-24. The target of mobilization of 10 crore households was achieved in March 2024.

    The State/UT-wise targets and the number of households mobilized under Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) is given at Annexure.

    Nellore district has 37 rural blocks. All the 37 blocks are covered under the DAY-NRLM.

    The Central allocation under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) for Andhra Pradesh for the last three financial years amounted to Rs. 756 crores. However, only Rs. 377 crores released, reason for non- release of entire amount is because of non-submission of proposals by the State due to delay in receipt of funds from Treasury.

    For the current financial year, the approved central share under DAY-NRLM for Andhra Pradesh is Rs.307.69 crore out of which Rs.76.92 crore has been released so far.

    The Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP), a key sub-scheme under DAY-NRLM aimed at enhancing the livelihoods and income of Mahila Kisans. The Ministry had approved 13 projects under MKSP in 2011, including Nellore District in Andhra Pradesh. After grant of two extensions, these projects were closed in FY 2019.

    For FY 2023-24, the Ministry approved an Annual Action Plan for an amount of Rs. 64 Cr. for MKSP, with the central share being Rs. 38.40 Cr. and the state share Rs. 25.60 Cr. The physical target for the year included the creation of 160 Integrated Farming Clusters (IFC) under MKSP. However, the Andhra Pradesh SRLM has not opened the budget head for MKSP in FY 2023-24. Moreover, the MKSP budget provision was not reflected in the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) TRSY-07 report for FY 2023-24, which are mandatory for the release of funds under Central Sponsored Schemes as per the Department of Expenditure norms. Due to which the Ministry has not released any fund to Andhra Pradesh SRLM for MKSP during FY 2023-24. Out of the total allocation of Rs. 15 crores (Rs. 9 Cr. Central Share + Rs. 6 Cr. State share) for FY 2024-25, amount of Rs. 2.25 Cr. has been released as a part of the Central Share.

    Regarding the Start-Up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP), which is a demand-driven scheme, funds are released based on the submission of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) from the state. However, the Andhra Pradesh SRLM has delayed the submission of the required DPRs and financial documents for SVEP components, which has also delayed the timely release of funds for the programme. Out of the total allocation of Rs. 13.33 crore (Rs. 8 Cr. Central Share + Rs.5.33 Cr. State share) for FY 2024-25, amount of Rs. 2 Cr. has been released as a part of the Central Share.

    State

    Target for HH Mobilisation

    Mobilisation as on March 24

    Andaman

    15000

    13194

    Andhra Pradesh

    8310437

    9075289

    Arunachal

    84623

    86937

    Assam

    3593756

    4111020

    Bihar

    12332493

    12713428

    Chhattisgarh

    3193288

    3068427

    Daman DIU and NH

    12469

    12695

    Goa

    45947

    50298

    Gujarat

    3031245

    2783006

    Haryana

    730806

    629094

    Himachal Pradesh

    338103

    378542

    Jammu & Kashmir

    950000

    797805

    Jharkhand

    3446912

    3589607

    Karnataka

    3239273

    4207374

    Kerala

    3644669

    4002478

    Ladakh

    13315

    11710

    Lakshadweep

    3692

    4363

    Madhya Pradesh

    6549384

    5829972

    Maharashtra

    7109774

    6525549

    Manipur

    207481

    99810

    Meghalaya

    418254

    444264

    Mizoram

    73765

    85934

    Nagaland

    121260

    135261

    Odisha

    6610605

    5757107

    Puducherry

    45931

    59714

    Punjab

    657609

    543246

    Rajasthan

    4600000

    3804161

    Sikkim

    58557

    56675

    Tamil Nadu

    3675989

    4023939

    Telangana

    4593482

    4820573

    Tripura

    460061

    494675

    Uttar Pradesh

    11807911

    9507884

    Uttarakhand

    491114

    497777

    West Bengal

    11593207

    12251533

    Total

    102060412

    100473341

     

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

    *****

    MG/KSR/357

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Families registered under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 7:09PM by PIB Delhi

    Year-wise number of persons who availed employment under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (Mahatma Gandhi NREGS) in Udaipur, Dungarpur and Pratapgarh districts of Rajasthan from the financial year 2019-20 to the current financial year 2024-25 (as on 28.01.2025) is given below:

    Year-wise number of persons who availed employment under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS in Udaipur, Dungarpur and Pratapgarh districts of Rajasthan from the financial year 2019-20 to the current financial year 2024-25 (as on 28.01.2025)

    Financial Year

    Persons availed employment (in Nos.)

    Udaipur

    Dungarpur

    Pratapgarh

    2019-20

    399349

    432835

    211408

    2020-21

    536916

    568677

    276025

    2021-22

    454316

    537099

    294875

    2022-23

    388084

    466339

    294671

    2023-24

    389603

    482361

    293809

    2024-25

    359589

    435600

    279711

    Note: Salumber district was carved out of erstwhile Udaipur district on 7 August 2023. Separate Information in respect of this District is not available in NREGASoft.

     

    Number of persons registered under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS in Udaipur, Dungarpur and Pratapgarh districts of Rajasthan as on 28.01.2025 are given below:

    Number of persons registered under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS in Udaipur, Dungarpur and Pratapgarh districts of Rajasthan as on 28.01.2025.

    Districts

    Persons registered (in Nos.)

    Udaipur

    1207164

    Dungarpur

    806637

    Pratapgarh

    422884

    Note: Salumber district was carved out of erstwhile Udaipur district on 7 August 2023. Separate Information in respect of this District is not available in NREGASoft.

     

    Block-wise number of persons availed employment under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS in Udaipur, Dungarpur and Pratapgarh districts of Rajasthan, from the financial year 2023-24 to 2024-25 (as on 28.01.2025) are given at Annexure-I.

    Block-wise cumulative number of households issued Job Cards under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Others in Udaipur, Dungarpur and Pratapgarh districts of Rajasthan as on 28.01.2025 is at Annexure-II.

    Annexure-I

    Block-wise number of persons availed employment under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS in Udaipur, Dungarpur and Pratapgarhthe district of Rajasthan from the financial year 2023-24 to 2024-25 (as on 28.01.2025)

    Blocks of Dungarpur district

    Sl. No.

    Blocks

    Persons availed employment (in Nos.)

    2023-24

    2024-25 ( as on 28.01.25)

    1

    ASPUR

    32421

    29715

    2

    BICHHIWARA

    46007

    41742

    3

    CHIKHLI

    44987

    39552

    4

    DOVRA

    44929

    42200

    5

    DUNGARPUR

    40848

    37731

    6

    GALIYAKOT

    49498

    44815

    7

    JHONTHARI

    39290

    36310

    8

    SAABLA

    42100

    37841

    9

    SAGWARA

    87069

    75775

    10

    SEEMALWARA

    55212

    49919

     

    Total

    482361

    435600

    Block of Pratapgarh district

    1

    ARNOD

    29544

    27579

    2

    CHOTI SADRI

    25016

    22183

    3

    DALOT

    35590

    34078

    4

    DHAMOTAR

    35121

    35765

    5

    DHARIYAWAD

    50742

    48220

    6

    PEEPALAKHUNT

    44327

    42029

    7

    PRATAPGARH

    40245

    39898

    8

    SUHAGPURA

    33224

    29959

     

    Total

    293809

    279711

    Block of Udaipur district

    1

    BADGAON

    5208

    4870

    2

    BHINDAR

    13938

    14055

    3

    GIRWA

    17628

    15004

    4

    GOGUNDA

    23995

    21490

    5

    JAISAMAND

    10547

    9955

    6

    JHADOL

    21871

    21942

    7

    JHALLAARA

    27446

    26980

    8

    KHAIRWARA

    21598

    20053

    9

    KOTRA

    52319

    47605

    10

    KURABAD

    13588

    11441

    11

    LASADIA

    25757

    22864

    12

    MAVLI

    9834

    8557

    13

    NAYAGAON

    22415

    20373

    14

    PHALASIYA

    26133

    27273

    15

    RISHABHDEV

    25176

    23108

    16

    SALUMBAR

    14845

    14424

    17

    SARADA

    13452

    10510

    18

    SAYRA

    20753

    18448

    19

    SEMAARI

    17629

    16387

    20

    VALLABHNAGAR

    5471

    4250

     

    Total

    389603

    359589

    Note: Salumber district was carved out of erstwhile Udaipur district on 7 August 2023. Separate Information in respect of this District is not available in NREGASoft..
               

    Annexure-II

     

    Block-wise cumulative number of households issued Job Cards under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Others in Udaipur, Dungarpur, and Pratapgarh districts of Rajasthan as on 28.01.2025,

    Blocks of Dungarpur district

    Sl. No.

    Blocks

    Cumulative number of households issued Jobcards (as on 28.01.25)

    SCs

    STs

    Others

    Total

    1

    ASPUR

    2134

    14023

    16306

    32463

    2

    BICHHIWARA

    672

    38436

    4511

    43619

    3

    Chikhli

    541

    31521

    3631

    35693

    4

    Dovra

    674

    30547

    9311

    40532

    5

    DUNGARPUR

    526

    33829

    7046

    41401

    6

    Galiyakot

    1358

    25313

    9820

    36491

    7

    Jhonthari

    382

    30903

    4011

    35296

    8

    Saabla

    1838

    21063

    12703

    35604

    9

    SAGWARA

    2804

    35235

    24389

    62428

    10

    SEEMALWARA

    909

    31241

    9346

    41496

    Total

    11838

    292111

    101074

    405023

    Block of Pratapgarh district

    1

    ARNOD

    1581

    12529

    7047

    21157

    2

    CHOTI SADRI

    3035

    12124

    11222

    26381

    3

    DALOT

    759

    21365

    3479

    25603

    4

    DHAMOTAR

    1191

    18570

    6456

    26217

    5

    DHARIYAWAD

    1725

    39744

    5501

    46970

    6

    PEEPALAKHUNT

    371

    29780

    3490

    33641

    7

    PRATAPGARH

    3322

    12618

    14660

    30600

    8

    SUHAGPURA

    723

    19664

    1906

    22293

    Total

    12707

    166394

    53761

    232862

    Block of Udaipur district

    1

    BADGAON

    2450

    12787

    11266

    26503

    2

    BHINDAR

    2521

    6469

    20935

    29925

    3

    GIRWA

    573

    27819

    5323

    33715

    4

    GOGUNDA

    2284

    15274

    12650

    30208

    5

    JAISAMAND

    675

    15709

    5950

    22334

    6

    JHADOL

    748

    26418

    8536

    35702

    7

    JHALLAARA

    1166

    20458

    8051

    29675

    8

    KHAIRWARA

    677

    19510

    5670

    25857

    9

    KOTRA

    231

    61208

    7220

    68659

    10

    KURABAD

    1167

    9679

    9735

    20581

    11

    LASADIA

    649

    22286

    3748

    26683

    12

    MAVLI

    3971

    9194

    17170

    30335

    13

    NAYAGAON

    502

    19475

    3700

    23677

    14

    PHALASIYA

    307

    25630

    5320

    31257

    15

    RISHABHDEV

    453

    29261

    4469

    34183

    16

    SALUMBAR

    1678

    16408

    12969

    31055

    17

    SARADA

    607

    19952

    5705

    26264

    18

    SAYRA

    2204

    13312

    12156

    27672

    19

    SEMAARI

    613

    17350

    6454

    24417

    20

    VALLABHNAGAR

    1436

    2777

    9467

    13680

    TOTAL

    24912

    390976

    176494

    592382

    Note: Salumber district was carved out of erstwhile Udaipur district on 7 August 2023. Separate Information in respect of this District is not available in NREGASoft.
                       

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

    *****

    MG/KSR/243

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Removal of workers from Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 7:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (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. However, while deleting/ removing workers/Job cards, States/UTs have to ensure compliance with provisions of the Act and ensure that no job card of deserving or eligible household is deleted/cancelled. States/UTs-wise details of number of active workers deleted/cancelled from Mahatma Gandhi NREGS during the financial years 2022-23 and 2023-24 is given below.

    A total of 86,17,887 and 68,86,532 active workers have been deleted/cancelled during the Financial Year 2022-23 and 2023-24 respectively, for reasons such as fake/duplicate/incorrect job card, family shifted out of Gram Panchayat permanently, Village becomes classified as urban etc.

    States/UTs-wise details of number of active workers deleted/cancelled from Mahatma Gandhi NREGS during the financial years 2022-23 and 2023-24

    SI. No.

    State/UTs

    2022-2023

    2023-2024

    Active Workers

    Active Workers

    1

    Andaman And Nicobar

    11

    17

    2

    Andhra Pradesh

    485757

    360840

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    8315

    17008

    4

    Assam

    166823

    315937

    5

    Bihar

    1403802

    237655

    6

    Chhattisgarh

    274534

    595205

    7

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    0

    2

    8

    Goa

    4

    6

    9

    Gujarat

    201611

    258451

    10

    Haryana

    10016

    7089

    11

    Himachal Pradesh

    25399

    41045

    12

    Jammu And Kashmir

    44227

    108263

    13

    Jharkhand

    344051

    242883

    14

    Karnataka

    376577

    225536

    15

    Kerala

    14863

    51335

    16

    Ladakh

    3243

    1488

    17

    Lakshadweep

    0

    0

    18

    Madhya Pradesh

    790419

    1627427

    19

    Maharashtra

    195146

    102843

    20

    Manipur

    16740

    33268

    21

    Meghalaya

    9675

    60233

    22

    Mizoram

    5587

    8802

    23

    Nagaland

    8802

    13507

    24

    Odisha

    694696

    436230

    25

    Puducherry

    309

    325

    26

    Punjab

    107228

    33404

    27

    Rajasthan

    352408

    727700

    28

    Sikkim

    1067

    2195

    29

    Tamil Nadu

    233543

    270860

    30

    Telangana

    415200

    121422

    31

    Tripura

    15820

    49765

    32

    Uttar Pradesh

    1448978

    806253

    33

    Uttarakhand

    22951

    43291

    34

    West Bengal

    940085

    86247

    Total

    8617887

    6886532
             

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

     

    *****

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    (Release ID: 2099773) Visitor Counter : 30

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PROJECTS UNDER AGRICULTURE INFRASTRUCTURE FUND

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 6:55PM by PIB Delhi

    With an objective to address the existing gaps in post-harvest management infrastructure in the country, the flagship scheme of Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) was launched in 2020-21 to strengthen the infrastructure in the country through creation of farm gate storage and logistics infrastructure to enable farmers to store and preserve their farm produce properly and sell them in the market at better price with reduced post-harvest losses and lesser number of intermediaries. Improved post-harvest management infrastructure like warehouses, Cold stores, sorting and grading units, ripening chambers etc will allow farmers to sell directly to a larger base of consumers and hence, increase value realization for the farmers. This will improve the overall income of farmers.  As on 26.01.2025, Rs. 56334 Crores have been sanctioned for 92393 projects under AIF, out of this total sanctioned amount, ₹41996 crores are covered under scheme benefits. These sanctioned projects have mobilized an investment of Rs.91856 crores in agriculture sector.

    In state of Andhra Pradesh, ₹2819 cr (Including Rs. 924 in principle sanctions for PACS by NABARD) have been sanctioned for 2686 projects under AIF. The total project cost for these sanctioned projects is ₹4124 crore. The district- wise details of projects identified and approved for providing support under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) in the State of Andhra Pradesh is given in Annexure.

    As per the MoU signed by The Department with the Banks and other lending institutions, Interest rate on AIF loans should not exceed the cap fixed at 9% per annum. Again, all loans under this financing facility will have interest subvention of 3% per annum up to a limit of ₹ 2 crore. This subvention will be available for a maximum period of 7 years. In case of loans beyond ₹ 2 crore, then interest subvention will be limited up to ₹ 2 crore.

    As on 26.01.2025, Rs. 56334 Crores have been sanctioned to applicants for 92393 projects under AIF which leaves an amount of Rs 43,666 crore remain to be sanctioned by the lending institutions by 2025-26.

    To achieve the ambitious target of ₹1 lakh crore within the deadline, a series of strategic initiatives have been undertaken. The Union Cabinet has approved the progressive expansion of the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF). Key measures include allowing viable community farming assets for all eligible beneficiaries, including secondary processing projects integrated with primary processing in eligible activities, and converging AIF with PM-KUSUM Component-A. Additionally, NABSanrakshan is also included in scheme to extend credit guarantee support to FPOs. The recently concluded annual Bankers’ Conclave on 23.01.2025 at NABARD, Mumbai brought together top executives from banks and financial institutions to strengthen commitment and accelerate approvals. Additionally, multiple state-level conclaves are being planned over the coming months to engage regional stakeholders, address challenges, and enhance outreach. Regular interaction with AIF Nodal Officers of banks and state governments is being conducted to boost awareness, streamline processes, and promote the AIF initiative effectively. These efforts aim to create momentum, ensure timely sanctions, and drive funding toward the ₹1 lakh crore target.

    Annexure

     

    The district- wise details of projects identified and approved for providing support under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) in the State of Andhra Pradesh

     

     (Amount in Rs Crore)

    SN

    District

    Sanctioned No.

    Sanctioned Amt.

    1

    East Godavari

    258

    228

    2

    Guntur

    116

    195

    3

    Krishna

    199

    143

    4

    Palnadu

    101

    127

    5

    West Godavari

    284

    109

    6

    Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore

    111

    95

    7

    Eluru

    116

    94

    8

    Ananthapuramu

    114

    85

    9

    Nandyal

    160

    83

    10

    Kakinada

    101

    75

    11

    Vizianagaram

    186

    72

    12

    Srikakulam

    187

    72

    13

    Bapatla

    89

    71

    14

    Kurnool

    90

    66

    15

    Tirupati

    42

    58

    16

    Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema

    127

    55

    17

    Ntr

    48

    50

    18

    Prakasam

    69

    48

    19

    Chittoor

    31

    44

    20

    Y.S.R.

    58

    35

    21

    Parvathipuram Manyam

    64

    29

    22

    Sri Sathya Sai

    54

    23

    23

    Anakapalli

    42

    17

    24

    Visakhapatnam

    24

    15

    25

    Alluri Sitharama Raju

    9

    6

    26

    Annamayya

    6

    2

    Grand Total

    2686

    1895#

    *Information is based on the applications received on AIF portal.

    # Excluding the Rs. 924 Crore in principle sanctions for PACS by NABARD

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

    ******

     MG/KSR

    (Release ID: 2099753) Visitor Counter : 50

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rural Education Statistics

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Education

    Rural Education Statistics

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 6:13PM by PIB Delhi

    Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024

     

    Introduction

     

    The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024 is a nationwide rural household survey that reached 649,491 children in 17,997 villages across 605 rural districts in India. Further, ASER surveyors visited 15,728 government schools with primary sections. 8,504 were primary schools and 7,224 were schools which also had upper primary or higher grades.

     

    Key Findings for Pre-primary (age group 3-5 years)

     

    1. Enrollment in pre-primary institutions
    • Among children aged 3-5 years, enrollment in some type of pre-primary institution (Anganwadi centre, government pre-primary class, or private LKG/UKG) has improved steadily between 2018 and 2024.
    • Among 3-year-olds, enrollment in pre-primary institutions increased from 68.1% in 2018 to 77.4% in 2024. Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Telangana have achieved near-universal enrollment for this age group.
    • Among 4-year-olds, the all-India figure for enrollment in pre-primary institutions increased from 76% in 2018 to 83.3% in 2024. In 2024, enrollment rates in pre-primary for this age exceed 95% in states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
    • Among 5-year-olds, this figure also showed big increases, rising from 58.5% in 2018 to 71.4% in 2024. The states with enrollment exceeding 90% in pre-primary institutions for this age include Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Nagaland.

     

    1. Type of pre-primary institution
    • Anganwadi centres continue to be the biggest provider of services in pre-primary age group in India.
    • Approximately one-third of all 5-year-olds attend a private school or pre-school in 2024. This figure was 37.3% in 2018, fell to 30.8% in 2022, and returned to 37.5% in 2024.

     

    1. Age of entry to Standard (Std) I
    • The proportion of children who are “underage” (age 5 or below) is decreasing over time. In 2018, this figure was 25.6%, in 2022 it stood at 22.7%, and in 2024, nationally the percentage of underage children in Std I was at its lowest ever at 16.7%. On average, this proportion has either declined or remained stable across all states in India.

     

    Key Findings for Elementary (age group 6-14 years)

     

    1. Enrollment
    • Overall school enrollment rates among the 6-14 age group have exceeded 95% for close to 20 years. This proportion has stayed almost the same, from 98.4% in 2022 to 98.1% in 2024. Across all states, enrollment in this age group is above 95% in 2024.
    • In 2018, 65.5% of children in the 6-14 age group in India were enrolled in government schools. By 2024, the all-India figure increased to 66.8%.

     

    1. Reading
    • Std III: The percentage of Std III children able to read Std II level text was 20.9% in 2018. This figure increased to 23.4% in 2024. The improvement in government schools is higher than the corresponding recovery for private schools. Following a decline in Std III reading levels in government schools in most states in 2022, all states have shown a recovery in 2024. States with more than a 10-percentage point increase in this proportion between 2022 and 2024 in government schools include Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Odisha, and Maharashtra.
    • Std V: Reading levels improved substantially among Std V children, especially for those who are enrolled in government schools. The proportion of Std V children in government schools who can read a Std II level text fell from 44.2% in 2018 to 38.5% in 2022 and then recovered to 44.8% in 2024. In 2024, Mizoram (64.9%) and Himachal Pradesh (64.8%) had the highest proportions of Std V children in government schools able to read Std II level text. States with over a 10-percentage point increase in this proportion in government schools include Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu.
    • Std VIII: Reading levels increased among children enrolled in Std VIII in government schools, which fell from 69% in 2018 to 66.2% in 2022 but then rose to 67.5% in 2024. Government schools in states such as Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Sikkim show notable improvements.

     

    1. Arithmetic
    • Std III: The all-India figure for children in Std III who are able to do a numerical subtraction problem was 28.2%. This figure has increased to 33.7% in 2024. Among government school students, this figure went from 20.9% in 2018 to 27.6% in 2024. For private school students, this number showed a smaller improvement since 2022. Government schools across most states have shown gains since 2022, with over 15-percentage point increases recorded in states like Tamil Nadu and Himachal Pradesh.
    • Std V: At the all-India level, the proportion of children in Std V who can do a numerical division problem has also improved. This figure was 27.9% in 2018 and then rose to 30.7% in 2024. This change is also driven mainly by government schools. States with the showing most improvement (more than 10-percentage points) in government schools include Punjab and Uttarakhand.
    • Std VIII: The performance of Std VIII students in basic arithmetic remains similar to earlier levels, going from 44.1% in 2018 to 45.8% in 2024.

     

    Key Findings for Older children (age group 15-16 years)

     

    1. Enrollment
    • The proportion of 15-16-year-old children who are not enrolled in school dropped sharply from 13.1% in 2018 to 7.9% in 2024 at the all-India level.

     

    1. Digital literacy
    • Access to smartphones is close to universal among the 14-16 age group. Almost 90% of both girls and boys report having a smartphone at home. More than 80% report knowing how to use a smartphone.
    • Of the children who could use a smartphone, 27% of 14-year-olds and 37.8% of 16-year-olds reported having their own phone.
    • 82.2% of all children in the 14-16 age group reported knowing how to use a smartphone. Of these, 57% reported using it for an educational activity in the preceding week while 76% said that they had used it for social media during the same period. While the use of a smartphone for educational activities was similar among girls and boys, girls were less likely than boys to report using social media (78.8% of boys as compared to 73.4% of girls). Kerala stands out in this respect, with over 80% children who reported that they used the smartphone for educational activity and over 90% using it for social media.
    • Among children who used social media, knowledge of basic ways to protect themselves online was relatively high. 62% knew how to block or report a profile, 55.2% knew how to make a profile private, and 57.7% knew how to change a password.

     

     

    Key Findings of School Observations

     

    1. Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) activities
    • Over 80% of schools had received a directive from the government to implement Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) activities with Std I-II/III, both in the previous as well as in the current academic year. A similar proportion had at least one teacher who had received in-person training on FLN.
    • More than 75% schools had received Teaching Learning Material (TLM) and/or funds to make or purchase TLM for FLN activities.
    • More than 75% schools reported implementing a school readiness program for students prior to entering Std I, in both the previous and the current academic year.
    • More than 95% schools reported having distributed textbooks to all grades in the school, a substantial increase over 2022 levels.

     

    1. Student and teacher attendance
    • Student and teacher attendance in government primary schools show small but consistent improvements since 2018. Average student attendance increased from 72.4% in 2018 to 75.9% in 2024.
    • Average teacher attendance increased from 85.1% in 2018 to 87.5% in 2024. This trend is largely driven by changes in teacher and student attendance in Uttar Pradesh.

     

    1. Small schools and multigrade classrooms
    • The proportion of government primary schools with less than 60 students enrolled shows a sharp increase, rising from 44% in 2022 to 52.1% in 2024. More than 80% primary schools in these states are small schools: Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Nagaland, and Karnataka. Himachal Pradesh has the highest proportion of small Upper primary schools at 75%.
    • Two-thirds of Std I and Std II classrooms in primary schools were multigrade, with students from more than one grade sitting together.

     

    1. School facilities
    • Nationally, all Right to Education-related indicators included in ASER have shown small improvements between 2018 and 2024 levels. For example, the fraction of schools with useable girls’ toilets increased from 66.4% in 2018 to 72% in 2024.
    • The proportion of schools with drinking water available increased from 74.8% to 77.7%, and the proportion of schools with books other than textbooks being used by students increased from 36.9% to 51.3% over the same period.
    • Sports-related indicators remain at close to the levels observed in 2018. For example, in 2024, 66.2% schools have a playground, similar to 66.5% in 2018.

     

    References

    https://asercentre.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/ASER_2024_Final-Report_25_1_24.pdf

    Rural Education Statistics

    *********

    Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Rishita Aggarwal

    (Release ID: 2099725)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transforming Agricultural Finance

    Source: Government of India

    Transforming Agricultural Finance

    Enhancing KCC limit to ₹5 lakh

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 5:33PM by PIB Delhi

    Agriculture and Allied Activities sector in India

    The ‘Agriculture and Allied Activities’ sector has long been the backbone of the Indian economy, playing a vital role in national income and employment. With nearly 46.1 per cent of the population engaged in agriculture and allied activities, ensuring financial security and accessible credit for farmers remains a top priority for the government. Recognizing this, the Union Budget 2025-26 introduces key measures to strengthen agricultural financing, particularly through the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme.

    The KCC scheme has been instrumental in fulfilling farmer’s financial needs. With a significant increase in the loan limit under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh; this year’s budget underscores the government’s commitment to empowering farmers and boosting agricultural productivity.

    This article presents a comprehensive understanding of the KCC scheme and how it transforms agricultural credit accessibility in India.

    What is Kisan Credit Card Scheme

    Safeguarding and ensuring hassle-free credit availability at a cheaper rate to farmers has been the top priority of the government. Accordingly, the Kisan Credit Card Scheme (KCC) was introduced for farmers to provide farmers with easy access to affordable credit for their agricultural needs so as to meet short term /long term cultivation requirements, postharvest expenses, consumption requirement etc.

     

    How does KCC help Farmers?

    The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme is designed to provide farmers with adequate and timely credit to meet their diverse financial needs. It helps farmers access institutional credit easily, ensuring their financial stability and agricultural productivity. The scheme offers support for:

    • Cultivation and post-harvest activities: Ensuring funds are available for cultivation and post-harvest costs.
    • Marketing loans: Helping farmers bridge financial gaps until they sell their produce at competitive market rates.
    • Household consumption needs: Offering financial support to meet essential household expenses, preventing dependency on informal lending sources.
    • Working capital for farm assets: Assisting in the maintenance of essential farming equipment and infrastructure.
    • Investment credit for allied activities: Expanding financial access to animal husbandry, dairying, fisheries, and other agricultural extensions.

    Recognizing the importance of allied sectors, the KCC scheme was expanded in 2019 to include animal husbandry, dairying, and fisheries. Banks can provide collateral-free loans up to ₹1.60 lakh, ensuring financial security and fostering growth in these allied fields.

     

    Understanding Short Term Loans

    The Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS) offers concessional Short-term Agri-loans to farmers for crop and allied activities, providing a 7% interest rate on loans up to ₹3.00 lakh, with an additional 3% subvention for timely repayment, reducing the effective rate to 4%. MISS also includes post-harvest loans against NWRs for small farmers with KCCs.

     

    Ensuring Transparency

    The Kisan Rin Portal (KRP) launched in September 2023 addresses key challenges in the MISS-KCC scheme. Previously, banks had to submit claims for Interest Subvention (IS) and Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI) manually to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and NABARD, leading to significant delays and inefficiencies. The Kisan Rin Portal digitizes this process, ensuring farmers and lending institutions benefit from quicker, seamless transactions, improving access to credit for agricultural needs.

    • Empowering Farmers with Seamless Access to Credit
    • Benefiting Financial Institutions: Banks and Cooperatives
    • Reaching the Grassroots: Training and Support

     

    By 31 December 2024, it had processed claims worth ₹108336.78 crore including Interest Subvention (IS) and PRI. About 5.9 crore farmers that are currently getting benefitted under the MISS-KCC scheme, have been mapped through KRP.

    Achievements of Agriculture sector

    • As of March 2024, the country has 7.75 crore operational KCC accounts with a loan outstanding of ₹9.81 lakh crore.
    • 1.24 lakh KCC and 44.40 lakh KCC were issued to fisheries and animal husbandry activities, respectively.
    • In the last 10 years, Rs 1.44 lakh Crore of Interest Subsidy has been released on Kisan Credit Card loans. It has risen nearly 2.4 times, from ₹6,000 Crore in 2014-15 to ₹14,252 crore in 2023-24.
    • Institutional credit flow to agriculture has risen nearly three times since 2014-15, rising from ₹ 8.5 lakh Crore to ₹ 25.48 lakh Crore in 2023-24. Short-term agriculture credit has more than doubled, increasing from ₹ 6.4 lakh Crore in 2014-15 to ₹ 15.07 lakh Crore in 2023-24.

     

     

    • The proportion of Small and Marginal Farmers accessing agriculture loans grew from 57% in 2014-15 to 76% in 2023-24.

     

    Conclusion

    The Kisan Credit Card scheme has been instrumental in transforming agricultural credit accessibility, ensuring that farmers receive timely and affordable financial assistance. By increasing financial support under the Union Budget 2025-26, the government is reinforcing its commitment to empowering farmers. These initiatives not only promote agricultural growth but also enhance rural livelihoods, paving the way for a resilient and self-sufficient farming community in India.

     

    References

    Annual Report 2023-24 https://www.agriwelfare.gov.in/en/Annual

    https://fasalrin.gov.in/

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2098424#:~:text=The%20budget%20for%20Department%20of,government’s%20commitment%20to%20agricultural%20development.

    Economic Survey of India: https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/economicsurvey/index.php

    https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2024/dec/doc20241219474501.pdf

    Transforming Agricultural Finance

    ***

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Madiha Iqbal

    (Release ID: 2099696) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: Measures for Care of LGBTQ Community

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 4:59PM by PIB Delhi

    Various measures taken by Government for the LGBTQ care are as follows:

    1. Department of Food and Public Distribution (D/oF&PD) has issued an advisory to all the States and UTs, that as per existing provisions, enabling partners in a queer relationship are to be treated as a part of the same household for the purposes of ration card. Further, States/UTs have been asked to take necessary measures to ensure that partners in queer relationship are not subjected to any discrimination in the issuance of ration cards.
    2. Department of Financial Services (DFS) has issued an advisory that there are no restrictions for persons of the queer community to open a joint bank account and also to nominate a person in queer relationship as a nominee to receive the balance in the account, in the event of death of the account holder.
    3. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued letters to all stakeholders including all States/UTs to take measures to ensure the rights of LGBTQI+ community pertaining to healthcare, planning awareness activities, prohibition of conversion therapy, availability of sex reassignment surgery, changes in curricula, provision of tele consultation, sensitization and training various levels of staff and making of provision to claim the body when near relative/next of kin/family is not available.
    4. The Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has also issued letter to the State Health Departments and other stakeholders on the subject of ensuring the health care access and reducing discrimination towards LGBTQI+ community.
    5. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has framed guidelines in respect of medical intervention required in infants/ children with disorders of sexual differentiation (intersex) to have medically normal life without complications.
    6. Ministry of Home Affairs has issued advisory to all states/UTs regarding prison visitation rights of the Queer Community and an advisory, on law & order measures to be taken to ensure that queer community do not face any threat of violence, harassment or coercion.
    7. For the welfare of Transgender Persons, ‘The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019’ was enacted. ‘The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights), Rules, 2020’ were notified for implementation of the provisions of the Act. A National Council for Transgender Persons (NCTP) has been setup for advising Government on policies, programmes, legislation and projects for transgender persons. The National Portal for Transgender Persons was made operational to issue Transgender certificates and identity cards to the Transgender applicants. Transgender Protection Cells (TPC) have been set up in 13 states to monitor cases of offences against transgender persons and to ensure timely registration, investigation and prosecution of such offences. Transgender Welfare Boards (TWB) are also setup in 19 states for the purpose of protecting their rights and interests of, and facilitating access to schemes and welfare measures. Ministry has issued ‘Equal Opportunities Policy for Transgender Persons’ to eradicating discrimination, promoting equal opportunities, and providing a workplace that respects the rights and dignity of transgender persons.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT, SHRI B.L. VERMA, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    VM

    (Lok Sabha US Q311)

    (Release ID: 2099650) Visitor Counter : 35

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bharat Tex 2025 is a testament to India’s commitment to becoming a global textile powerhouse: Secretary, Textiles

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Bharat Tex 2025 is a testament to India’s commitment to becoming a global textile powerhouse: Secretary, Textiles

    Secretary, Textiles compliments Industry bodies for the largest ever Global Textile Show

    Bharat Tex is a perfect example of industry- government collaboration: Secretary, Textiles

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 4:52PM by PIB Delhi

    Launches App and website for Bharat Tex 2025

    Building on the success of its inaugural edition in 2024, Bharat Tex 2025 aims to further elevate its stature by attracting over 5,000 exhibitors, 6,000 international buyers from over 120 countries, and more than 1,20,000 visitors. The event will feature comprehensive pavilions, showcasing the entire textile value chain under one roof

     

    Union Textiles Secretary, Mrs. Neelam Shami Rao applauded textile industry bodies for their proactive efforts in organizing Bharat Tex 2025. Describing it as the largest and most comprehensive textiles event ever, she commended the commitment of textile Export Promotion Councils and other industry bodies for their relentless efforts and dedication in bringing the entire value chain of textiles under the Bharat Tex umbrella. She underlined that Bharat Tex will reaffirm the attractiveness of India as a reliable, sustainable sourcing destination as well as an investment destination at scale for textiles. The entire event is a testament to India’s commitment to becoming a global textile powerhouse, she added.

    The Secretary was speaking on the occasion of the unveiling of the Bharat Tex 2025 app and website at Udyog Bhawan.

     

    Bharat Tex 2025, organized by 11 major textile industry bodies and supported by the Ministry of Textiles, promises to be a landmark event showcasing the diversity, scale, and capability of India’s textile sector. The event spread over an area of 2.2 million square feet is expected to attract over 5,000 exhibitors, 6,000 international buyers from 120 countries, and more than 1,20,000 visitors. Exhibitors will showcase a wide range of products, including apparel, dyes & chemicals, machinery & equipment, home furnishings, technical textiles, handlooms, and handicrafts.

    The event will also feature over 70 conference sessions, roundtables, and master classes, with discussions led by nearly 100 international speakers. Topics such as sustainability, investments, manufacturing 4.0, and future fashion trends will dominate the agenda.

    Besides a global sized trade fair and expo and an international textiles conference, the textile extravaganza will also offer a wide range of activities, seminars, CEO roundtables, and B2B and G2G meetings. It will also feature strategic investment announcements, product launches, and collaborations poised to reshape the global textile industry. Attendees can look forward to live demonstrations, cultural events, and fashion presentations, designer and brand exhibitions and sustainability workshops, and expert talks. Bharat Tex 2025 aims to serve as a unique and consolidated platform to showcase India’s full textile value chain, while highlighting its strengths in fashion, traditional crafts, and sustainability initiatives. The event is an industry led initiative and will be organized jointly by the 11 Textile related Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and other industry bodies. It is supported by the Ministry of Textiles.

    Bharat Tex is being run on an advanced technology platform offering a one source engagement to visitors, exhibitors and buyers. The Bharat Tex app, is a part of the overall technology platform designed to facilitate seamless engagement, networking, and information dissemination for this largest global textile event. Designed to enhance user convenience by offering exhibitor profiles, session details, and interactive maps, it is a comprehensive tool for buyers, exhibitors, and visitors to explore the vast scale and diversity of India’s textile ecosystem, connect with global stakeholders, and stay informed about key events during and after the expo.

    The app allows users to explore the latest developments and technological advancements in the entire textile value chain covering fibers, yarns, apparels & fashions, home textiles, handlooms, technical textiles, and intelligent manufacturing. With easy access to venue maps, session details, and more, the app eliminates the need for paper guides, offering an efficient and eco-friendly experience. Available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, the Bharat Tex 2025 app is an essential tool for attendees aiming to navigate the event efficiently to maximize their opportunities. With the launch of the Bharat Tex 2025 exhibitors, buyers, and visitors will have access to an easy-to-use platform, to access event information, develop networks, and plan their participation efficiently.

    ****

    Dhanya Sanal K

    Director(M&C)

    (Release ID: 2099638) Visitor Counter : 61

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro Unveils 2025-26 Budget Proposal to Cut Costs, Drive Economic Growth, Strengthen Public Safety, Fund Our Kids’ Education, and Continue to Get Stuff Done for Pennsylvanians

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    February 04, 2025 – Harrisburg, PA

    Governor Shapiro Unveils 2025-26 Budget Proposal to Cut Costs, Drive Economic Growth, Strengthen Public Safety, Fund Our Kids’ Education, and Continue to Get Stuff Done for Pennsylvanians

    Governor Josh Shapiro presented his 2025-26 budget proposal to the General Assembly and the people of Pennsylvania – a commonsense plan that builds on two years of progress, continues to solveproblems, and paves the way for a stronger, more competitive Pennsylvania. The Governor’s budget proposal places a special emphasis on workforce development; reduces health care, housing, and energy costs; invests in economic development; and continues bipartisan efforts to support Pennsylvania students – all while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

    This budget will build on the foundation the Shapiro Administration has constructed over the past two years and move Pennsylvania forward as Governor Shapiro continues working across the aisle to get stuff done and ensure people across the Commonwealth have the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed.

    “Pennsylvania is on the rise, and this budget is a clear roadmap for tackling our challenges and building on the bipartisan foundation we’ve created over the last two years,” said Governor Shapiro. “My budget proposal is focused on solving problems for Pennsylvanians, expanding our workforce, cutting costs, investing in public safety and economic development – and so much more – to keep creating more opportunity for all Pennsylvanians. This budget strikes a balance by making historic investments while maintaining fiscal responsibility, continuing to cut taxes, and ensuring our Commonwealth’s surplus remains strong while we keep moving Pennsylvania forward. By working together with Democrats and Republicans in the General Assembly, we will continue to tackle the challenges we face and drive growth for a stronger, more prosperous Pennsylvania.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Phil Scott Lays Out Direction for Navigating National Politics

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott has directed his Administration to take a disciplined and measured approach to any major proposals coming from Washington, D.C. 

    In last week’s meeting of the Governor’s Cabinet, Scott asked his team to remain disciplined, thoughtful and factual when evaluating and responding to changes in federal policy. This includes taking time to fully assess each proposal and distinguish between what is rhetoric, and what is real, in terms of impacts to Vermont.

    “We cannot be in a constant state of fear, panic and disruption over the next four years,” Governor Scott said.

    The Governor noted that while there will be areas of disagreement, there may also be policy positions which could be beneficial to Vermont.

    “We need to stay focused on Vermont and remain disciplined as we distinguish between what is fact and what is rhetoric before we react to any change in federal policy or law. We will follow through on Vermonters’ priorities: housing, education, public safety, and affordability, and do our part to unite Americans by focusing on solutions and results, not the chaos and anger being used to divide us.”

    Governor Forms Decision Support Team on Potential Tariffs

    As a result of President Trump’s recent proposal on tariffs, Governor Scott has tasked Secretary of Commerce and Community Development Lindsay Kurrle with leading a multi-agency effort to assess the possible impacts on Vermont. While the tariffs have been paused for 30 days, the Decision Support Team will begin its work immediately, so Vermont is prepared for any further changes in policy.  

    “As I have said in the past, I am not a fan of increasing tariffs on our friends and close allies. And most Vermonters agree, a trade war with our largest trading partner, which could increase costs on already overburdened working families, seems like a bad idea,” Governor Scott said. “But we should be fair and take time to understand what problem the President intends to solve, the results he expects to get, and the risks he’s willing to take, before we cast judgement.  We need actual data and credible analysis to demonstrate disadvantages we are concerned about.”

    The Governor added, “while the President’s tariffs would undoubtedly be very disruptive, and the risk of higher prices has been well reported, I have directed my team to weigh the outcomes fairly and objectively,” he said.

    Governor Scott also charged the team with identifying options for mitigating short-term and long-term impacts on consumers and ratepayers, as well as opportunities for expanding any potential upside.

    “The Governor has asked for a tangible analysis of net impacts, not a knee jerk reaction to the idea of tariffs or the unfortunate friction trade federal policies create with our very good friends to the north and that is exactly what we’re going to provide,” Secretary Kurrle said.

    While the President has paused potential tariffs for 30 days, Kurrle said the team will continue reviewing the President’s proposals and she will update the Governor weekly and as necessary. 

    The interagency team includes:

    • Agency of Commerce and Community Development
    • Department of Labor
    • Agency of Agriculture 
    • Public Service Department

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: GAMCO Investors, Inc. Reports Results for the Fourth Quarter and Year Ended December 31, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Quarter End AUM of $31.7 billion
    • Operating Margin of 32.3% for the Fourth Quarter and 31.0% for 2024
    • Fourth Quarter Earnings of $0.70 per Share versus $0.66 per Share in the Fourth Quarter of 2023
    • 2024 Earnings of $2.65 per Share versus $2.38 per Share for 2023
    • $182.8 million in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Seed Capital, and Investments and No Debt
    • Board Authorizes 100% Increase of the Regular Quarterly Dividend
    • Repurchased 1.3 million Shares, or 3% of Outstanding Shares, During the Fourth Quarter of 2024 and Increased Buyback Authorization to 1.5 Million Shares

    GREENWICH, Conn., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GAMCO Investors, Inc. (“Gabelli”) (OTCQX: GAMI) today reported its operating results for the quarter ended December 31, 2024.

    Financial Highlights

    (In thousands, except percentages and per share data)      
        Three Months Ended  
        December 31,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		  
    U.S. GAAP          
    Revenue   $ 59,262     $ 57,313    
    Expenses     40,109       41,517    
    Operating income     19,153       15,796    
    Non-operating income     3,452       6,199    
    Net income     16,797       16,560    
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.70     $ 0.66    
    Operating margin     32.3 %     27.6 %  
               

    Giving Back to Society – $80 million since IPO

    Since our initial public offering in February 1999, our firm’s combined charitable donations total approximately $80 million, including $48 million through the shareholder designated charitable contribution program. Based on the program created by Warren Buffett at Berkshire Hathaway, our corporate charitable giving is unique in that the recipients of Gabelli’s charitable contributions are chosen directly by our shareholders, rather than by our corporate officers. Since its inception in 2013, Gabelli shareholders have designated charitable gifts to approximately 350 charitable organizations.

    On August 6, 2024, Gabelli’s board of directors authorized the creation of a private foundation, headquartered in Reno, Nevada, to continue our charitable giving program with an initial contribution of $5 million.

    Revenue

    (In thousands)   Three Months Ended    
        December 31,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		    
    Investment advisory and incentive fees            
       Funds   $ 40,441   $ 37,748    
       Institutional and Private Wealth Management   15,057     13,712    
       SICAV     4 (a)   1,541 (a)  
          Total   $ 55,502   $ 53,001    
    Distribution fees and other income     3,760     4,312    
          Total revenue   $ 59,262   $ 57,313    
                 
    (a) Reflects change in reporting methodology. See AUM table.        

    The year over year increase in Funds revenues was primarily the result of higher average assets under management. The increase in Institutional and Private Wealth Management revenues was primarily the result of higher beginning of the quarter equity assets under management, which are generally used to calculate the revenues. The decrease in SICAV revenues reflects a change in the agreement for the merger arbitrage SICAV, an open-end fund available to non-U.S. shareholders, which became effective in December 2023. The change better aligns the financial arrangements with the services rendered by each party in managing the fund and did not have a material impact on the financial results. The decrease in distribution fees and other income was primarily the result of a decrease in equity mutual funds AUM that pay distribution fees.

    Expenses

    (In thousands)   Three Months Ended  
        December 31,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		  
    Compensation   $ 26,593   $ 27,316  
    Management fee     2,512     2,444  
    Distribution costs     5,634     5,848  
    Other operating expenses   5,370     5,909  
       Total expenses   $ 40,109   $ 41,517  
               
    • The lower compensation expense in the fourth quarter of 2024 reflected $2.9 million of waived compensation partially offset by increased fixed compensation of $1.4 million and increased variable compensation of $0.8 million.
    • The $0.1 million increase in management fee is attributable to the higher pre-management fee income of $0.7 million; and,
    • Other operating expenses this quarter were lower versus the fourth quarter of 2023 reflecting the change in the agreement for the merger arbitrage SICAV beginning in December 2023.

    Operating Margin

    The operating margin, which represents the ratio of operating income to revenue, was 32.3% for the fourth quarter of 2024 compared with 27.6% for the fourth quarter of 2023.  

    Non-Operating Income

    (In thousands)   Three Months Ended  
        December 31,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		  
    Gain from investments, net   $ 644     $ 3,529    
    Interest and dividend income     3,090       2,951    
    Interest expense (a)     (282 )     (281 )  
       Total non-operating income   $ 3,452     $ 6,199    
               
    (a) Related to GAAP accounting of finance lease.      

    Non-operating income decreased $2.7 million for the quarter, reflecting the lower mark-to-market net gains on our investment portfolio for the quarter slightly offset by an increase in interest and dividend income.

    Other Financial Highlights

    The effective income tax rate for the fourth quarter of 2024 was 25.7% versus 24.7% for the fourth quarter of 2023.

    Cash, cash equivalents, and investments were $182.8 million with no debt at December 31, 2024.

    Assets Under Management

    (In millions)   As of  
        December 31,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		  
                   
    Mutual Funds   $ 8,078   $ 8,440   $ 7,973  
    Closed-end Funds     7,344     7,459     7,097  
    Institutional & PWM (a) (b)     10,700     10,984     10,738  
    SICAV (c)     9     9     631  
    Total Equities     26,131     26,892     26,439  
                   
    100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund     5,552     5,268     4,615  
    Institutional & PWM Fixed Income     32     32     32  
    Total Treasuries & Fixed Income     5,584     5,300     4,647  
    Total Assets Under Management   $ 31,715   $ 32,192   $ 31,086  
                   
    (a) Includes $242, $278, and $370 of AUM subadvised for Teton Advisors, Inc. at December 31, 2024, September 30,  
    2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.            
    (b) Includes $237, $212, and $227 of 100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund AUM at December 31, 2024,  
    September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.          
    (c) Includes $0, $0, and $620 of the SICAV AUM subadvised by Associated Capital Group, Inc. at December 31, 2024,  
    September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.          
                   

    Assets under management on December 31, 2024 were $31.7 billion, a decrease of 1.6% from the $32.2 billion on September 30, 2024. The quarter’s decrease consisted of net market depreciation of $0.2 billion, net outflows of $0.2 billion, and distributions, net of reinvestments, of $0.1 billion.

    Mutual Funds

    Assets under management in Mutual Funds on December 31, 2024 were $8.1 billion, a decrease of 4.3% from the $8.4 billion at September 30, 2024. The quarterly change was attributed to:

    • Distributions, net of reinvestment, of $27 million;
    • Net outflows of $209 million; and
    • Net market depreciation of $126 million.

    Closed-end Funds

    Assets under management in Closed-end Funds on December 31, 2024 were $7.3 billion, a decrease of 1.5% from the $7.5 billion on September 30, 2024. The quarterly change was comprised of:

    • Distributions, net of reinvestment, of $129 million;
    • Net inflows of $169 million, including the issuance of $150 million preferred shares, the issuance of $62 million common shares less the redemption of $30 million of preferred shares, and the repurchase of $13 million of common stock ; and
    • Net market depreciation of $155 million.

    Institutional & PWM

    Assets under management in Institutional & PWM on December 31, 2024 were $10.7 billion, a decrease of 0.9% from the $10.8 billion on December 31, 2023. The quarterly change was due to:

    • Net outflows of $345 million; and
    • Net market appreciation of $61 million.

    SICAV

    Assets under management were $9 million in the GAMCO All Cap Value sleeve and the GAMCO Convertible Securities sleeve on December 31, 2024 versus $11 million in those sleeves at December 31, 2023.

    100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund

    Assets under management in our 100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund (GABXX) on December 31, 2024 were $5.6 billion, up from $5.3 billion at September 30, 2024.

    The Gabelli Growth Fund – Up 35.8% For 2024

    The Growth team of Howard Ward, CFA, and John Belton, CFA, commented on The Gabelli Growth Fund’s 2024 performance:

    “The environment remained favorable for growth stocks in 2024, underpinned by a resilient economy and the start of a Federal Reserve interest rate cutting cycle. Earnings growth accelerated for many US companies, aided by healthy consumer spending trends, robust technology investments, and continued cost discipline. Artificial Intelligence (AI) remained a key stock market theme, as capital expenditure plans across the hyperscale cloud computing group reached astronomical levels, and given a host of new AI-centric business models which have started to take shape. To date, this technology appears to be making some of the strongest companies, stronger, and to that end we maintained positions in many of the largest AI beneficiaries including NVIDIA, Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet and Meta Platforms. This group remains a cornerstone of our portfolio, and as of year-end more than half of the portfolio’s assets are invested across the Technology Sector as a whole. Outside of the Megacap Tech group, top performers to performance this year included Eli Lilly (boosted by continued success across an industry-leading incretin drug portfolio), ServiceNow (which is an early leader in AI software commercialization) and Intuitive Surgical.”

    The Gabelli Gold Fund – Up 15.2% For 2024

    Portfolio manager Caesar Bryan commented on The Gabelli Gold Fund’s 2024 performance:

    “Gold performed strongly for the second consecutive year largely driven by overseas central bank purchases. However, gold equities underperformed the gold price. Recently the rise in the gold price has not been fully reflected in the profit margins of gold mining companies. This has largely been due to cost pressures emanating from a variety of sources, exacerbated by covid. But we believe the market may be too pessimistic concerning both cost pressures which are diminishing and enhanced revenues from a higher gold price. Gold equities are inexpensive relative to their history and on an absolute basis. But a catalyst is needed to alter investor perception. This could be gold backed ETFs adding ounces reflecting a recovery in investor interest in the sector, a decline in other asset markets which may highlight gold as a portfolio diversifier, increased takeover activity or simply continued strength in the gold price. Some of our smaller gold producers such as Lundin Gold and Wesdome Gold Mines, had stellar returns. Among our larger producers Kinross and Agnico Eagle contributed significantly to performance. We continue to favor mid capitalization gold producers with good assets that trade at a big discount to some of the larger producers.”

    The Gabelli Small Cap Growth Fund

    We utilize our own in-house team of over 40 industry equity analysts and portfolio managers to analyze the stocks in the fund, using our bottom-up research-intensive process and, more importantly, our accumulated and compounded knowledge of selected industry sectors. We use GAPIC – gather, array, project, interpret, and communicate data daily. We have consistently applied our Private Market Value with a Catalyst approach to help generate our long-term returns since the inception of the fund in 1991.

    ETFs

    In 2024, Gabelli Growth Innovators (NYSE: GGRW), managed by Howard Ward and John Belton, generated a 41.8% total return, the Gabelli Financial Services Opportunities ETF (NYSE: GABF), led by Macrae Sykes, produced a 44.6% total return, and the Gabelli Commercial Aerospace & Defense ETF (NYSE: GCAD), managed by Lieutenant Colonel G. Anthony (Tony) Bancroft, USMCR returned 22.2%. The firm launched its first active ETF, the Gabelli Love Our Planet & People ETF (NYSE: LOPP) in January 2021 to extend the tax benefits of owning exchange traded funds to our investors. Since the initial launch, the Gabelli platform has steadily grown the differentiated suite of ETFs. We are pleased with the client adoption progress and excited about this growth area of the market and positioning of these unique funds supported by our investment team. To accelerate the growth of these funds, each of the funds (with the exception of GGRW) has fee and expense waivers on the first $25 million of assets, whereas LOPP has a fee and expense waiver for the first $100 million of assets under management.

    Assets Under Administration

    (In millions)   As of  
        December 31,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		  
                   
    Teton-Keeley Funds (a)   $ 809   $ 883   $ 964  
    SICAV     408     431     –  
    Total Assets Under Administration $ 1,217   $ 1,314   $ 964  
                   
    (a) Includes $242, $278 and $370 of AUM subadvised for Teton Advisors, Inc. at  
         December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.  
                   

    AUA on December 31, 2024 were $1.2 billion, a slight decline from the $1.3 billion at September 30, 2024.

    Return to Shareholders

    During the fourth quarter of 2024, Gabelli returned to shareholders $86 million in the form of a special dividend of $2.00 per share totaling $50.5 million that was declared in the third quarter of 2024, the repurchase of 1,304,358 shares for $34.4 million at an average investment of $26.37 per share, and a regular quarterly dividend of $0.04 per share totaling $1.0 million. From January 1, 2025 to February 4, 2025, the Company has repurchased 12,971 shares at an average price of $23.95 per share for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $0.3 million. On February 4, 2025, the board of directors increased the buyback authorization to 1.5 million shares.

    On February 4, 2025, Gabelli’s board of directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.08 per share, an increase of 100%, which is payable on March 25, 2025 to class A and class B shareholders of record on March 11, 2025.

    Balance Sheet Information 

    As of December 31, 2024, cash, cash equivalents, and U.S Treasury Bills were $116.5 million and investments were $66.3 million, compared with cash, cash equivalents, and U.S. Treasury Bills of $160.8 million and investments of $44.1 million as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2024, stockholders’ equity was $136.6 million compared to $181.0 million as of December 31, 2023. The decline in stockholders’ equity resulted from the payment of $59.5 million in dividends, $49.3 million of stock buybacks, offset partially by $64.4 million in net income.

    Symposiums/Conferences

    • On November 4th and 5th, we hosted the 48th Annual Automotive Aftermarket Symposium at the Encore at Wynn in Las Vegas. The symposium featured presentations from senior management of leading automotive and trucking companies, with a lineup that enabled investors to understand everchanging dynamics within the automotive industry.
       
    • On November 15th, we hosted the 6th Annual Healthcare Symposium in connection with Columbia Business School.
       
    • On December 5th, we hosted the 2nd Section 852(b)(6) Conference.
       
    • In addition to the above, we hosted the following during 2024:
       
      • 34th Pump, Valve & Water Systems Symposium
      • 30th Aerospace & Defense Symposium
      • 18th Omaha Research Trip
      • 16th Media & Entertainment Symposium
      • 15th Specialty Chemicals Symposium
      • 10th Waste & Environmental Services Conference
      • 2nd PFAS Symposium

    We are hosting the following symposiums and conferences in 2025:

    About Gabelli

    Gabelli is best known for its research-driven value approach to equity investing (known as PMV with a CatalystTM). Gabelli conducts its investment advisory business principally through two subsidiaries: Gabelli Funds, LLC (24 open-end funds, 14 closed-end funds, 5 actively managed ETFs, and a SICAV) and GAMCO Asset Management Inc. (approximately 1,400 institutional and private wealth separate accounts). Gabelli serves a broad client base including institutions, intermediaries, offshore investors, private wealth, and direct retail investors. In recent years, Gabelli has successfully integrated new teams of RIAs by providing attractive compensation arrangements and extensive research capabilities. As we stated in the past, Gabelli continues to look for new acquisitions / lift-outs and will pay finder’s fees for successful opportunities.

    Gabelli offers a wide range of solutions for clients across Value and Growth Equity, Convertibles, actively managed ETFs, sector-focused strategies including Gold and Utilities, Merger Arbitrage, Fixed Income, and 100% U.S. Treasury Money Market.

    CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    Our disclosure and analysis in this press release, which do not present historical information, contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements convey our current expectations or forecasts of future events. You can identify these statements because they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” and other words and terms of similar meaning. They also appear in any discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, future performance of our products, expenses, the outcome of any legal proceedings, and financial results. Although we believe that we are basing our expectations and beliefs on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of what we currently know about our business and operations, the economy, and other conditions, there can be no assurance that our actual results will not differ materially from what we expect or believe. Therefore, you should proceed with caution in relying on any of these forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance.

    Forward-looking statements involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors, some of which are listed below, that are difficult to predict and could cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from any future results or outcomes expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that may cause our actual results to differ from our expectations include risks associated with the duration and scope of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic resulting in volatile market conditions, a decline in the securities markets that adversely affect our assets under management, negative performance of our products, the failure to perform as required under our investment management agreements, and a general downturn in the economy that negatively impacts our operations. We also direct your attention to the more specific discussions of these and other risks, uncertainties and other important factors contained in our Annual Report and other public filings. Other factors that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We do not undertake to update publicly any forward-looking statements if we subsequently learn that we are unlikely to achieve our expectations whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Gabelli Funds, LLC is a registered investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is a wholly owned subsidiary of GAMCO Investors, Inc. (OTCQX: GAMI).

    Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the fund before investing. The prospectus, which contains more complete information about this and other matters, should be read carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, please call 800 GABELLI or visit www.gabelli.com
    Fitch rating drivers include: credit quality, interest rate risk, liquid assets, maturity profiles, and the capabilities of the investment advisor

    Active Transparent Exchange-Traded Funds
    GABELLI FINANCIAL SERVICES OPPORTUNITIES: GABF

    IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

    • Shares of this ETF are bought and sold at market prices (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the fund.
    • Buying or selling ETF shares may require additional fees such as brokerage commissions, which will reduce returns.
    • These traditional risks may be even greater in challenging or uncertain market conditions.
    • Financial service companies operate in heavily regulated industries, which are subject to change. The underlying securities are subject to credit and interest rate sensitivity risk, which could affect earnings. Additionally, since financial services firms are correlated to GDP, a decline in the economic environment could impact profitability.

    Active Exchange-Traded Funds
    GABELI LOVE OUR PLANET & PEOPLE: LOPP
    GABELLI GROWTH INNOVATORS: GGRW
    GABELLI COMMERCIAL AEROSPACE & DEFENSE: GCAD

    IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES
    These ETFs are different from traditional ETFs. Traditional ETFs tell the public what assets they hold each day. These ETFs do not. This may create additional risks for your investment. For example:
    • You may have to pay more money to trade the ETFs’ shares. These ETFs will provide less information to traders, who tend to charge more for trades when they have less information.
    • The price you pay to buy ETF shares on an exchange may not match the value of an ETF’s portfolio. The same is true when you sell shares. These price differences may be greater for these ETFs compared to other ETFs because they provide less information to traders.
    • These additional risks may be even greater in challenging or uncertain market conditions.
    • The differences between these ETFs and other ETFs may also have advantages. By keeping certain information about the ETFs undisclosed, these ETFs may face less risk that other traders can predict or copy its investment strategy. This may improve the ETFs’ performance. If other traders are able to copy or predict the ETFs’ investment strategies, however, this may hurt the ETFs’ performance. For additional information regarding the unique attributes and risks of these ETFs, see the ActiveShares prospectus/registration statement.

    You should consider the ETFs’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before you invest. The ETFs’ Prospectus is available from G.distributors, LLC, a registered broker-dealer and FINRA member firm, and contains this and other information about the ETFs, and should be read carefully before investing.

    GABF
    Financial services companies operate in heavily regulated industries, which are subject to change. The underlying securities are subject to credit and interest rate sensitivity risk, which could impact earnings. Additionally, since financial services firms are correlated to GDP, a decline in the economic environment could impact profitability.

    GGRW
    Securities of growth companies may be more volatile since such companies usually invest a high portion of earnings in their business, and they may lack the dividends of value stocks that can cushion stock prices in a falling market.

    GCAD
    Government aerospace regulation and spending policies can significantly affect the aerospace industry because many companies involved in the aerospace industry rely to a large extent on U.S. (and other) Government demand for their products and services.

    LOPP
    The application of the Adviser’s socially responsible criteria will affect the Fund’s exposure to certain issuers, industries, sectors, regions, and countries, and may impact the relative financial performance of the Fund.

    Money Market Fund
    Investment in the fund is neither guaranteed nor insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any government agency. Although the fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it cannot guarantee it will do so. The fund’s sponsor has no legal obligation to provide financial support to the fund, and you should not expect that the sponsor will provide financial support to the fund at any time. You could lose money by investing in the fund.

    Growth
    Securities of growth companies may be more volatile since such companies usually invest a high portion of earnings in their business, and they may lack the dividends of value stocks that can cushion stock prices in a falling market.

    As of December 31, 2024, GAMI and affiliates owned less than one percent of all stocks mentioned in the Growth Fund.

    Gold
    Investments related to gold and other precious metals and minerals are considered speculative and are affected by a variety of worldwide economic, financial, and political factors. Investing in foreign securities involves risks not ordinarily associated with investment in domestic issues. Funds concentrating in specific sectors may experience greater fluctuations in value than funds that are more diversified. Not FDIC Insured. Not Bank Guaranteed. May Lose Value.

    As of December 31, 2024, GAMI and affiliates owned less than one percent of all stocks mentioned in the Gold Fund.

    Small Cap
    Small capitalization stocks are subject to significant price fluctuations and business risks. The stocks of smaller companies may trade less frequently and experience more abrupt price movements than stocks of larger companies; therefore, investing in this sector involves special challenges.

    Returns represent past performance and do not guarantee future results. Investment returns and the principal value of an investment will fluctuate. When shares are redeemed, they may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data presented. Visit www.gabelli.com for performance information as of the most recent month end.

    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries              
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)        
    (in thousands, except per share data)              
        Three Months Ended  
        December 31,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		  
    Revenue:              
      Investment advisory and incentive fees   $ 55,502     $ 53,829     $ 53,001    
      Distribution fees and other income     3,760       3,717       4,312    
         Total revenue     59,262       57,546       57,313    
    Expenses:              
      Compensation     26,593       22,566       27,316    
      Management fee     2,512       2,517       2,444    
      Distribution costs     5,634       6,033       5,848    
      Other operating expenses     5,370       4,801       5,909    
        Total expenses     40,109       35,917       41,517    
    Operating income     19,153       21,629       15,796    
    Non-operating income:              
      Gain from investments, net     644       3,370       3,529    
      Interest and dividend income     3,090       2,947       2,951    
      Interest expense     (282 )     (290 )     (281 )  
      Charitable giving contribution     –       (5,000 )     –    
        Total non-operating income     3,452       1,027       6,199    
    Income before provision for income taxes     22,605       22,656       21,995    
    Provision for income taxes     5,808       5,822       5,435    
    Net income   $ 16,797     $ 16,834     $ 16,560    
                   
    Earnings per share attributable to common            
    stockholders:              
      Basic   $ 0.70     $ 0.69     $ 0.66    
      Diluted   $ 0.70     $ 0.69     $ 0.66    
                   
    Weighted average shares outstanding:              
      Basic     23,971       24,263       25,038    
      Diluted     23,971       24,263       25,038    
                   
      Shares outstanding     22,930       24,235       24,906    
                   
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries          
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (Unaudited)      
    (in thousands)          
           
        December 31,   December 31,  
        2024   2023  
    Assets          
      Cash and cash equivalents   $ 17,254   $ 61,801  
      Short-term investments in U.S. Treasury Bills     99,216     99,025  
      Investments in securities     36,855     19,998  
      Seed capital investments     29,452     24,044  
      Receivable from brokers     3,103     4,562  
      Other receivables     21,246     21,178  
      Deferred tax asset and income tax receivable     7,553     8,927  
      Other assets     9,509     9,896  
         Total assets   $ 224,188   $ 249,431  
               
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity          
      Income taxes payable   $ 196   $ 17  
      Compensation payable     38,489     23,399  
      Accrued expenses and other liabilities     48,929     45,036  
        Total liabilities     87,614     68,452  
               
      Stockholders’ equity     136,574     180,979  
         Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 224,188   $ 249,431  
               
      Shares outstanding     22,930     24,906  
               
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries                    
    Assets Under Management                      
    By investment vehicle                      
    (in millions)                      
          Three Months Ended   % Changed From  
          December 31,   September 30,   December 31,   September 30,   December 31,  
           2024     2024     2023    2024    2023   
    Equities:                      
    Mutual Funds                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 8,440     $ 8,035     $ 7,546            
      Inflows     211       175       153            
      Outflows     (420 )     (415 )     (451 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     (209 )     (240 )     (298 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     (126 )     652       744            
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (27 )     (7 )     (19 )          
      Total increase (decrease)     (362 )     405       427            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 8,078     $ 8,440     $ 7,973     -4.3 %   1.3 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     25.5 %     26.2 %     25.6 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 8,447     $ 8,177     $ 7,593     3.3 %   11.2 %  
                             
    Closed-end Funds                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 7,459     $ 7,052     $ 6,727            
      Inflows     212       25       16            
      Outflows     (43 )     (32 )     (63 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     169       (7 )     (47 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     (155 )     540       544            
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (129 )     (126 )     (127 )          
      Total increase (decrease)     (115 )     407       370            
    Assets under management, end of period     7,344     $ 7,459     $ 7,097     -1.5 %   3.5 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     23.2 %     23.2 %     22.8 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 7,610     $ 7,260     $ 6,785     4.8 %   12.2 %  
                             
    Institutional & PWM                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 10,984     $ 10,436     $ 10,034            
      Inflows     62       87       63            
      Outflows     (407 )     (373 )     (371 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     (345 )     (286 )     (308 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     61       834       1,012            
      Total increase (decrease)     (284 )     548       704            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 10,700     $ 10,984     $ 10,738     -2.6 %   -0.4 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     33.7 %     34.1 %     34.5 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 11,085     $ 10,905     $ 10,005     1.7 %   10.8 %  
                             
    SICAV                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 9     $ 9     $ 622            
      Inflows     –       –       82            
      Outflows     –       –       (110 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     –       –       (28 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     –       –       37            
      Total increase (decrease)     –       –       9            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 9     $ 9     $ 631     0.0 %   -98.6 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     0.0 %     0.0 %     2.0 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 9     $ 9     $ 628     0.0 %   -98.6 %  
                             
    Total Equities                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 26,892     $ 25,532     $ 24,929            
      Inflows     485       287       314            
      Outflows     (870 )     (820 )     (995 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     (385 )     (533 )     (681 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     (220 )     2,026       2,337            
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (156 )     (133 )     (146 )          
      Reclassification to AUA     –       –       –            
      Total increase (decrease)     (761 )     1,360       1,510            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 26,131     $ 26,892     $ 26,439     -2.8 %   -1.2 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     82.4 %     83.5 %     85.1 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 27,151     $ 26,351     $ 25,011     3.0 %   8.6 %  
                             
                             
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries                    
    Assets Under Management                      
    By investment vehicle – continued                      
    (in millions)                      
          Three Months Ended   % Changed From  
          December 31,   September 30,   December 31,   September 30,   December 31,  
           2024     2024     2023    2024    2023   
    Fixed Income:                      
    100% U.S. Treasury fund                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 5,268     $ 5,159     $ 4,217            
      Inflows     1,656       1,245       1,424            
      Outflows     (1,440 )     (1,205 )     (1,088 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     216       40       336            
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     68       69       62            
      Total increase (decrease)     284       109       398            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 5,552     $ 5,268     $ 4,615     5.4 %   20.3 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     17.5 %     16.4 %     14.8 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 5,415     $ 5,246     $ 4,418     3.2 %   22.6 %  
                             
    Institutional & PWM Fixed Income                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 32     $ 32     $ 32            
      Inflows     –       –       –            
      Outflows     –       –       –            
      Net inflows (outflows)     –       –       –            
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     –       –       –            
      Total increase (decrease)     –       –       –            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 32     $ 32     $ 32     0.0 %   0.0 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     0.1 %     0.1 %     0.1 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 32     $ 32     $ 32     0.0 %   0.0 %  
                             
    Total Treasuries & Fixed Income                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 5,300     $ 5,191     $ 4,249            
      Inflows     1,656       1,245       1,424            
      Outflows     (1,440 )     (1,205 )     (1,088 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     216       40       336            
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     68       69       62            
      Total increase (decrease)     284       109       398            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 5,584     $ 5,300     $ 4,647     5.4 %   20.2 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     17.6 %     16.5 %     14.9 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 5,447     $ 5,278     $ 4,450     3.2 %   22.4 %  
                             
    Total AUM                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 32,192     $ 30,723     $ 29,178            
      Inflows     2,141       1,532       1,738            
      Outflows     (2,310 )     (2,025 )     (2,083 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     (169 )     (493 )     (345 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     (152 )     2,095       2,399            
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (156 )     (133 )     (146 )          
      Reclassification to AUA     –       –       –            
      Total increase (decrease)     (477 )     1,469       1,908            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 31,715     $ 32,192     $ 31,086     -1.5 %   2.0 %  
    Average assets under management   $ 32,598     $ 31,629     $ 29,461     3.1 %   10.6 %  
                             
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries            
    Assets Under Management              
    By investment vehicle              
    (in millions)              
          Twelve Months Ended    
          December 31,   December 31,      
           2024     2023    % Change  
    Equities:              
    Mutual Funds              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 7,973     $ 8,140        
      Inflows     751       711        
      Outflows     (1,626 )     (1,616 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     (875 )     (905 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     1,023       772        
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (43 )     (34 )      
      Total increase (decrease)     105       (167 )      
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 8,078     $ 7,973     1.3 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     25.5 %     25.6 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 8,173     $ 8,035     1.7 %  
                     
    Closed-end Funds              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 7,097     $ 7,046        
      Inflows     281       41        
      Outflows     (226 )     (130 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     55       (89 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     700       654        
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (508 )     (514 )      
      Total increase (decrease)     247       51        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 7,344     $ 7,097     3.5 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     23.2 %     22.8 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 7,274     $ 7,058     3.1 %  
                     
    Institutional & PWM              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 10,738     $ 10,714        
      Inflows     340       241        
      Outflows     (1,701 )     (1,739 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     (1,361 )     (1,498 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     1,323       1,522        
      Total increase (decrease)     (38 )     24        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 10,700     $ 10,738     -0.4 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     33.7 %     34.5 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 10,891     $ 10,670     2.1 %  
                     
    SICAV              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 631     $ 867        
      Inflows     –       357        
      Outflows     (2 )     (624 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     (2 )     (267 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     –       31        
      Reclassification to AUA     (620 )     –        
      Total increase (decrease)     (622 )     (236 )      
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 9     $ 631     -98.6 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     0.0 %     2.0 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 9     $ 694     -98.7 %  
                     
    Total Equities              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 26,439     $ 26,767        
      Inflows     1,372       1,350        
      Outflows     (3,555 )     (4,109 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     (2,183 )     (2,759 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     3,046       2,979        
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (551 )     (548 )      
      Reclassification to AUA     (620 )     –        
      Total increase (decrease)     (308 )     (328 )      
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 26,131     $ 26,439     -1.2 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     82.4 %     85.1 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 26,347     $ 26,457     -0.4 %  
                     
                     
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries            
    Assets Under Management              
    By investment vehicle – continued              
    (in millions)              
          Twelve Months Ended    
          December 31,   December 31,      
           2024     2023    % Change  
    Fixed Income:              
    100% U.S. Treasury fund              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 4,615     $ 2,462        
      Inflows     5,796       5,498        
      Outflows     (5,122 )     (3,536 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     674       1,962        
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     263       191        
      Total increase (decrease)     937       2,153        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 5,552     $ 4,615     20.3 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     17.5 %     14.8 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 5,140     $ 3,823     34.4 %  
                     
    Institutional & PWM Fixed Income              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 32     $ 32        
      Inflows     –       –        
      Outflows     –       –        
      Net inflows (outflows)     –       –        
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     –       –        
      Total increase (decrease)     –       –        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 32     $ 32     0.0 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     0.1 %     0.1 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 32     $ 32     0.0 %  
                     
    Total Treasuries & Fixed Income              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 4,647     $ 2,494        
      Inflows     5,796       5,498        
      Outflows     (5,122 )     (3,536 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     674       1,962        
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     263       191        
      Total increase (decrease)     937       2,153        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 5,584     $ 4,647     20.2 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     17.6 %     14.9 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 5,172     $ 3,855     34.2 %  
                     
    Total AUM              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 31,086     $ 29,261        
      Inflows     7,168       6,848        
      Outflows     (8,677 )     (7,645 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     (1,509 )     (797 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     3,309       3,170        
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (551 )     (548 )      
      Reclassification to AUA     (620 )     –        
      Total increase (decrease)     629       1,825        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 31,715     $ 31,086     2.0 %  
    Average assets under management   $ 31,519     $ 30,312     4.0 %  
                     
    Contact: Kieran Caterina
      Chief Accounting Officer
      (914) 921-5149
       
      For further information please visit
      www.gabelli.com 

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/67be43da-4ba8-4a8b-adfc-6568958b2c5f
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/184b5374-0f9b-4bf5-a782-689155142d7e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Climate-affected produce is here to stay. Here’s what it takes for consumers to embrace it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Liudmila Tarabashkina, Senior Lecturer, The University of Western Australia

    Joanna Dorota/Shutterstock, Zoom Team/Shutterstock, The Conversation

    The economic cost of food waste in Australia is staggering. It’s estimated $36.6 billion is lost to the economy every year. Much of our fresh produce never even makes it to stores, rejected at the farm gate due to cosmetic reasons, such as its appearance, size or ripeness.

    We’ve known about this problem for a long time, which has given rise to the “ugly” food movement. Once-rejected produce has been rebranded as “wonky” in the UK, “inglorious” in France, “naturally imperfect” in Canada or an “odd bunch” in Australia.

    While the existence of these campaigns is commendable, there’s another major marketing challenge if we want to reduce food waste – acceptance of climate-affected produce.

    Broadly speaking, this refers to produce affected by extreme or moderate weather events. Droughts are an example of such climate events, predicted to become more intense and frequent as a result of global climate change.

    Climate-affected produce resembles “ugly” food as it is often smaller, misshapen or has surface imperfections.

    Climate-affected produce often has a lot in common with ‘ugly’ fruit, but may also differ in taste and texture.
    Alexey Borodin/Shutterstock

    But in contrast to “ugly food”, the taste and texture of climate-affected produce can be quite different.

    Under the effects of drought, apples may become sweeter and more granular, chillies hotter and onions more pungent. In the case of mild or moderate droughts, such produce is still edible.

    Our recent research points to some uncomfortable truths. Many consumers prefer to avoid climate-affected produce altogether. And when price is a factor, they won’t choose it without a discount.

    But our research also offers suggestions on how purchases of such produce could be encouraged – including marketing messages that highlight the “resilience” of climate-affected produce.

    Our research

    We carried out two discrete choice experiments with consumers who buy fresh fruit and vegetables. One sample was drawn from among Australian students, the other from members of the wider Australian population.

    Participants were shown eight different apple options simulating a shopping environment, which were described with a range of different attributes including firmness, sweetness, appearance and size.

    The apples were also labelled with a price tag and information on whether they were sold at a supermarket or farmers’ market. All climate-affected apples were presented with a “resilience” message: “resilient apple – survived the drought”.

    We sought to examine how produce’s “organoleptic” properties – the way it impacts our different senses – as well as levels of empathy toward the farmers impact consumers’ willingness to choose climate-affected produce, and how much they’d pay for it.

    Drought can make apples sweeter, smaller, and less firm.
    The Conversation, Natthapol Siridech/Shutterstock, PickPik

    A preference for perfect

    We found when an apple’s firmness, size and aesthetics were important and empathy towards farmers was low, consumers tended to avoid climate-affected produce. They instead chose unaffected alternatives at higher prices (no such effect was observed for sweetness).

    This finding might not be surprising, but it’s still cause for concern. If farmers cannot repurpose climate-affected produce into spreads, jams, smoothies or animal feed, it can’t enter supply chains and may end up as waste.

    Previous campaigns for “ugly” fruit and vegetables may not offer much help with this problem, either. These campaigns emphasise the unaffected taste and texture of the produce. Marketing climate-affected produce needs a different approach.

    Otherwise, we expect a discount

    When price was important to consumers, they chose climate-affected produce, regardless of their levels of empathy toward farmers. But they were only willing to pay discounted prices for it.

    That might seem like a more positive outcome. But consumer expectations that climate-affected produce will always be discounted may disadvantage farmers with lower profit margins and diminish its value as a still-usable resource.

    Getting climate-affected (but still edible) produce into supply chains can help reduce food waste.
    Ekaterina Pokrovsky/Shutterstock

    The power of “resilience” messaging

    Importantly, we found when the “resilience” message resonated with consumers, they were more inclined to consider climate-affected apples. This was true even when their empathy towards farmers was low.

    This suggests that when empathy fails, leveraging marketing messages that highlight “resilience” could be another avenue worth exploring.

    Our research team is now exploring what types of “resilience” messages can encourage purchases of climate-affected produce.

    Australians have been conditioned for many years to expect only aesthetically pleasing fruit and vegetables.

    Given extreme weather events are unlikely to become less frequent in the future, climate-affected produce is likely here to stay. If we want consumers to embrace it, we need to have uncomfortable conversations around its different taste and texture, and rethink what we’re willing to accept.

    This research was supported by the University of Western Australia Business School Future Fund Research Grant.

    – ref. Climate-affected produce is here to stay. Here’s what it takes for consumers to embrace it – https://theconversation.com/climate-affected-produce-is-here-to-stay-heres-what-it-takes-for-consumers-to-embrace-it-248776

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Firearms and ammunition recovered in Levin

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have recovered stolen firearms and a large amount of ammunition from a house in Foxton, thanks to two members of the public making the decision to call 111.

    Horowhenua Prevention Manager Acting Senior Sergeant Peter Vine says thanks to those calls, Police have prevented weapons and ammunition falling into the wrong hands.

    The calls were made about 7:30am on Tuesday 4 February.

    “A young man was seen going between houses carrying armfuls of firearms. They thought it was strange so got in touch with us.”

    A Police team went to the Mark Perreau Place property where they located an 18-year-old Foxton man, 5 firearms and a large amount of ammunition.

    “The firearms and ammo had been stolen a day earlier. To get that tip off from a member of the public is just fantastic – they’ve prevented these weapons from getting into the wrong hands and all the harm that goes with that.”

    The 18-year-old Foxton man was taken into custody without incident. He has been charged with burglary, four counts of unlawfully possessing a firearm, two counts of unlawfully possessing ammunition, unlawfully being in an enclosed yard, and unlawfully getting into a motor vehicle.

    He is due to appear in the Levin District Court today (5 January). 

    Acting Senior Sergeant Vine urged anyone who sees suspicious behaviour to report it.

    “If it looks illegal, dodgy, or strange, tell us. Call 111 if it’s happening now, or make a report to 105 if it’s after the fact. Your call could make a huge difference.”

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –