NewzIntel.com

Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Global: How branding made Francis the ‘People’s Pope’

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Aidan Moir, Assistant Professor, Department of Communication, Media and Film, University of Windsor

    From papal selfies to the viral generative AI images featuring a stylish puffer jacket, Pope Francis became a prominent popular culture figure during his papacy.

    News media called him the “People’s Pope,” branding that also circulated online on social media to turn Pope Francis into an icon who symbolized the progressive ideals of 2010s popular culture.

    His 2013 election was significant for many reasons, including the fact that he became the first Jesuit and first pope from Latin America. His acension to the papacy represented an attempt by the Catholic Church to rebrand itself through Francis’s “progressive” public image.

    The Catholic Church as an institutional brand has been at the centre of numerous scandals and controversies after committing grave injustices for generations.



    Read more:
    ‘I am sorry’ — A reflection on Pope Francis’s apology on residential schools

    Pope Francis, on the other hand, became what branding expert Douglas Holt calls an “iconic brand.” These are entities that serve as powerful symbols that reflect cultural myths and ideals.

    Just like politicians or celebrities, popes also need branding to develop their public identities.

    Branding and the papacy

    Pontiffs have always been subject to branding, making them unique subjects for public fascination and popular culture. Decisions about what shoes to wear and what papal name to take are in fact acts of branding.

    Pope Francis chose his papal name to align himself with Saint Francis of Assisi. He also chose to wear a simple white cassock for his first public appearance on the balcony at St. Peter’s Basilica. These decisions were branding strategies.

    Francis’s use of social media brought the papacy into a new digital age. It provided him with a platform to build his brand in a manner similar to politicians.

    His embrace of technology made him appear “cool,” leading to a decade of viral social media posts and memes. The first papal selfie, taken in 2013 with teenage pilgrims visiting the Vatican, went viral on Twitter.

    Iconic brands cannot act alone to maintain their cultural status. As Holt explains, they depend on “co-authors” to create myths that connect brands with the public. Co-authors are media texts or cultural groups circulating stories that give meaning to iconic brands.

    From the outset, news media were an integral part of building the pope’s image. Francis was Time magazine’s 2013 Person of the Year, and graced the cover of Rolling Stone.

    He was largely unknown around the globe prior to becoming pope. Media coverage played an important role in presenting his brand to global audiences as news reports suggested Francis’s humility, compassion for the poor and radical approach to the papacy would transform the Catholic Church.

    Just days after his election, The Washington Post labelled Francis “the People’s Pope.” This title connected Francis to figures likes Princess Diana, a similar iconic figure known for challenging protocol and her progressive charity work who was dubbed “the People’s Princess.”



    Read more:
    Pope Francis has died, aged 88. These were his greatest reforms – and controversies

    A ‘progressive’ image

    After legacy media bolstered his iconic brand as “the People’s Pope,” Pope Francis reinforced this messaging through strategic, selective actions.

    Francis became pope during Barack Obama’s presidency in the United States. The two men shared some similarities, including representing different “firsts.”

    Francis was aware of his iconic brand as “the People’s Pope.” Like Princess Diana, this branding allowed him to appeal to a global audience, regardless of religious affiliation.

    His first official trip was to the Mediterranean island of Lampedusa, holding mass for asylum-seekers and migrants.

    His response of “who am I to judge?” to a media question about the Catholic Church’s position on 2SLGTBQ+ issues gained positive media coverage.

    In 2015, Francis published his first papal encyclical focused on the connection between climate change and global poverty.

    Pope Francis developed an iconic brand that connected with the public during a decade defined by progressive ideals as legacy and social media worked together as co-authors in building his identity.

    Iconic brands can transform the institutions they represent. Pope Francis’s image demonstrates how papal branding is no different than other forms of branding. It depends on different dynamics coming together at the right moment to form myths for public connection.

    Memes related to the movie Conclave are already going viral on social media. The new pontiff will enter a different cultural landscape than Pope Francis, but the strategies for creating an iconic brand remain the same.

    Aidan Moir previously received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. How branding made Francis the ‘People’s Pope’ – https://theconversation.com/how-branding-made-francis-the-peoples-pope-254981

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ON EARTH DAY, CASTEN, SCHATZ INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO ADDRESS THE COSTS AND FINANCIAL RISKS OF CLIMATE CHANGE

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Sean Casten (IL-06)

    April 22, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Sean Casten (D-IL-06) and U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) introduced the Climate Change Financial Risk Act, legislation that directs the Federal Reserve to conduct stress tests on large financial institutions to measure their resilience to climate-related financial risks.

    “Risk is risk—we should not be treating some risks different from others just because they’re hard to quantify. Federal regulators are legally obligated to ensure a stable and efficient financial system, and that means reducing the risk of a climate-driven financial crisis,” said Senator Schatz. “Instead of taking steps to reduce the risks facing communities across the country from increasingly frequent and severe extreme weather and disasters—including significantly higher costs for homeowners insurance—the Trump administration is trying to roll back our progress in the climate fight and gut the programs that will make us safer.”

    “Climate change poses a grave and imminent threat to the stability of our financial system. It is essential that our regulators establish parameters so that our financial institutions adequately prepare for and respond to these risks, and that they do so before the next extreme weather crisis strikes,” said Representative Casten. “Our bill will move us toward safeguarding our financial systems—from short-term climate impacts, such as direct uninsured losses from wildfires, hurricanes, and flooding events, as well as from long-term global shifts to a net-zero economy, which may require a reshaping of a bank’s lending and investment activities.”

    Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events like floods and wildfires. It is also changing long-term climate patterns in ways that will ultimately affect every sector of our economy. Financial institutions face the risk of direct losses from severe weather events and fundamental changes like drought and sea level rise—for example, lower property values from increased flooding. They also face risks from market instability, an erosion of investor confidence, and changes in carbon-intensive asset values resulting from government policies and consumer preferences. 

    These risks to our financial system are critical for financial institutions to measure and manage, as recognized in the pilot climate scenario analysis exercise that the Federal Reserve conducted in 2023 and the Principles for Climate-Related Financial Risk Management for Large Financial Institutions published by agencies in 2023. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency announced in March 2025 that it was withdrawing from its participation in these principles. The Climate Change Financial Risk Act will make sure that financial institutions manage climate risks with stress tests that quantify and measure their resilience.

    The Climate Change Financial Risk Act would require the Federal Reserve to create climate change scenarios for financial stress tests, with input from federal scientific agencies and an advisory group of climate scientists and climate economists. The Federal Reserve would then conduct stress tests every two years on the largest financial institutions. The biennial tests will require each covered institution to create and update a resolution plan, which will describe how the institution plans to evolve its capital planning, balance sheet and off-balance sheet exposures, and other business operations to respond to the most recent test results. Federal Reserve objections to a resolution plan would limit the institution’s ability to proceed with capital distributions until it improves its plan. The Federal Reserve will also partner with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to design a survey to assess the ability of a broader set of financial institutions to withstand climate risks. 

    Casten and Schatz’s legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J), and U.S. Representatives Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.), Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.), Sarah Elfreth (D-Md.), and Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.).

    “Those of us in the West are already experiencing the cost of climate inaction firsthand – from higher home insurance rates and utility bills for hardworking families to lower profits for producers. As the impacts of climate change intensify, we need to do everything we can to make our local economies more resilient for families, workers, and small businesses,” said Senator Heinrich. “This Earth Day, I’m proud to introduce the Climate Change Financial Risk Act with Senator Schatz to protect New Mexicans from the costly consequences of worsening climate change by strengthening the ability of our financial institutions to withstand extreme weather events like prolonged droughts and wildfires, which can trigger market instability and shake investor confidence.”

    “Trump’s Dirty Energy First strategy is fanning the flames of climate chaos, and it’s essential to understand the risk that poses to our major financial institutions,” said Senator Merkley. “We must not ignore the danger climate change poses to the economic security of hardworking Americans.”

    The Climate Change Financial Risk Act is supported by the League of Conservation Voters, Ceres, the Sierra Club, Public Citizen, and Americans for Financial Reform.

    “US regulators must get back in the business of managing the systemic financial risks posed by increasing floods, fires, and storms,” said Steven M. Rothstein, Managing Director of the Accelerator for Sustainable Capital Markets, Ceres. “We commend Senator Schatz and Representative Casten for reintroducing this legislation and laying out a clear role for the Federal Reserve Board to address climate-related financial risks. This legislation will provide the clarity and analysis needed to ensure the financial industry makes informed decisions that protect individual institutions from climate-related shocks and insulate the financial system from widespread loss.”

    “As financial regulators retreat under political pressure, this bill represents a much-needed step to ensure our financial system is better prepared for the growing risks of climate change. Investors need regulators to provide clear, forward-looking assessments of systemic risk — and to ensure that financial institutions aren’t throwing more fuel on the fire of the climate crisis. With climate disasters escalating and financial consequences mounting, leaders at all levels of government must act to build a more stable and sustainable financial system. We applaud Sen. Schatz and Rep. Casten for their continued leadership to make that happen,” said Ben Cushing, Sustainable Finance Campaign Director, the Sierra Club.

    The full text of the bill is available here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sunshine on Earth

    Source: NASA

    The Sun’s glint beams off a partly cloudy Atlantic Ocean just after sunrise as the International Space Station orbited 263 miles above on March 5, 2025. The space station serves as a unique platform for observing Earth with both hands-on and automated equipment. Station crew members have produced hundreds of thousands of images, recording phenomena such as storms in real time, observing natural events such as volcanic eruptions as they happen, and providing input to ground personnel for programming automated Earth-sensing systems.
    NASA has been observing Earth from space for more than 60 years, with cutting-edge scientific technology that can revolutionize our understanding of our home planet and provide benefits to all humanity.
    Image credit: NASA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Entrepreneurs Challenge Winner PRISM is Using AI to Enable Insights from Geospatial Data

    Source: NASA

    NASA sponsored Entrepreneurs Challenge events in 2020, 2021, and 2023 to invite small business start-ups to showcase innovative ideas and technologies with the potential to advance the agency’s science goals. To potentially leverage external funding sources for the development of innovative technologies of interest to NASA, SMD involved the venture capital community in Entrepreneurs Challenge events. Challenge winners were awarded prize money, and in 2023 the total Entrepreneurs Challenge prize value was $1M. Numerous challenge winners have subsequently refined their products and/or received funding from NASA and external sources (e.g., other government agencies or the venture capital community) to further develop their technologies.
    One 2023 Entrepreneurs Challenge winner, PRISM Intelligence (formerly known as Pegasus Intelligence and Space), is using artificial intelligence (AI) and other advances in computer vision to create a new platform that could provide geospatial insights to a broad community.
    Every day, vast amounts of remote sensing data are collected through satellites, drones, and aerial imagery, but for most businesses and individuals, accessing and extracting meaningful insights from this data is nearly impossible.  
    The company’s product—Personal Real-time Insight from Spatial Maps, a.k.a. PRISM—is transforming geospatial data into an easy-to-navigate, queryable world. By leveraging 3D computer vision, geospatial analytics, and AI-driven insights, PRISM creates photorealistic, up-to-date digital environments that anyone can interact with. Users can simply log in and ask natural-language questions to instantly retrieve insights—no advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) expertise is required.
    For example, a pool cleaner looking for business could use PRISM to search for all residential pools in a five-mile radius. A gardener could identify overgrown trees in a community. City officials could search for potholes in their jurisdiction to prioritize repairs, enhance public safety, and mitigate liability risks. This broad level of accessibility brings geospatial intelligence out of the hands of a few and into everyday decision making.
    The core of PRISM’s platform uses radiance fields to convert raw 2D imagery into high-fidelity, dynamic 3D visualizations. These models are then enhanced with AI-powered segmentation, which autonomously identifies and labels objects in the environment—such as roads, vehicles, buildings, and natural features—allowing for seamless search and analysis. The integration of machine learning enables PRISM to refine its reconstructions continuously, improving precision with each dataset. This advanced processing ensures that the platform remains scalable, efficient, and adaptable to various data sources, making it possible to produce large-scale, real-time digital twins of the physical world.

    “It’s great being able to push the state of the art in this relatively new domain of radiance fields, evolving it from research to applications that can impact common tasks. From large sets of images, PRISM creates detailed 3D captures that embed more information than the source pictures.” — Maximum Wilder-Smith, Chief Technology Officer, PRISM Intelligence
    Currently the PRISM platform uses proprietary data gathered from aerial imagery over selected areas. PRISM then generates high-resolution digital twins of cities in select regions. The team is aiming to eventually expand the platform to use NASA Earth science data and commercial data, which will enable high-resolution data capture over larger areas, significantly increasing efficiency, coverage, and update frequency. PRISM aims to use the detailed multiband imagery that NASA provides and the high-frequency data that commercial companies provide to make geospatial intelligence more accessible by providing fast, reliable, and up-to-date insights that can be used across multiple industries.
    What sets PRISM apart is its focus on usability. While traditional GIS platforms require specialized training to use, PRISM eliminates these barriers by allowing users to interact with geospatial data through a frictionless, conversational interface.
    The impact of this technology could extend across multiple industries. Professionals in the insurance and appraisal industries have informed the company how the ability to generate precise, 3D assessments of properties could streamline risk evaluations, reduce costs, and improve accuracy—replacing outdated or manual site visits. Similarly, local governments have indicated they could potentially use PRISM to better manage infrastructure, track zoning compliance, and allocate resources based on real-time, high-resolution urban insights. Additionally, scientists could use the consistent updates and layers of three-dimensional data that PRISM can provide to better understand changes to ecosystems and vegetation.
    As PRISM moves forward, the team’s focus remains on scaling its capabilities and expanding its applications. Currently, the team is working to enhance the technical performance of the platform while also adding data sources to enable coverage of more regions. Future iterations will further improve automation of data processing, increasing the speed and efficiency of real-time 3D reconstructions. The team’s goal is to expand access to geospatial insights, ensuring that anyone—from city planners to business owners—can make informed decisions using the best possible data.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025-55 HAWAIʻI’S FIRST EVER “DO THE WRITE THING” STUDENT AMBASSADOR CHOSEN TO REPRESENT HAWAIʻI AT NATIONAL SUMMIT IN WASHINGTON D.C.

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    2025-55 HAWAIʻI’S FIRST EVER “DO THE WRITE THING” STUDENT AMBASSADOR CHOSEN TO REPRESENT HAWAIʻI AT NATIONAL SUMMIT IN WASHINGTON D.C.

    Posted on Apr 21, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

    DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

    KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    ANNE LOPEZ

    ATTORNEY GENERAL

    LOIO KUHINA

     

    HAWAIʻI’S FIRST EVER “DO THE WRITE THING” STUDENT AMBASSADOR CHOSEN TO REPRESENT HAWAIʻI AT NATIONAL SUMMIT IN WASHINGTON D.C.

    News Release 2025-55

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                       

    April 21, 2025

    HONOLULU — In a powerful reflection on the realities of youth violence, Waiʻanae Intermediate School eighth grader Keziah Chloe Bacor was selected to represent Hawaiʻi at the National Do the Write Thing (DtWT) Summit for her personal essay titled, “Why Violence?” The piece was written as part of a classroom assignment challenging students to examine how violence has impacted their lives and what they can do to create change. Keziah becomes Hawaiʻi’s first DtWT student ambassador and will travel to Washington, D.C., this July to share her story on a national stage.

    DtWT is a national writing program that empowers middle school students to become changemakers by exploring the root causes and impacts of youth violence. Through classroom discussions and personal reflection, students write essays responding to three key questions: What are the causes of youth violence? How has violence affected your life? What can you do to reduce youth violence?

    “I am thrilled by the overwhelming success of this program as it engages our youth and inspires future generations to speak out against violence and bullying in their homes, schools and communities,” said Governor Josh Green, M.D.. “Their dedication to promoting peace and addressing youth violence also designates them as Hawaiʻi’s Ambassadors for Peace.”

    “Do the Write Thing is an inclusive and equitable program for all middle school students. The writings submitted aren’t judged by grammar or academic skill, but by the power of the ideas and lived experiences they share. This isn’t a writing contest—it’s a platform for young voices, and a powerful movement for change,” said Amber Moyer, DtWT Program Director, Washington, D.C.

    Keziah’s essay will be published with the writings of her peers from across the country. The anthology is archived at the Library of Congress. The students will also meet with members of Congress to share their perspectives and advocate for a future free from violence during a four-day summit.

    “In the beginning of my eight-grade year, many violent acts occurred in our community. Four shootings happened in a span of four weeks. After that, I’ve never been more careful of my surroundings or my family’s,” said Keziah. “Along with this writing challenge, my classmates and I were able to talk to Congresswoman Jill Tokuda and AG Anne Lopez about what was happening in our community, as well as doing sign waving to promote awareness in front of our school. Doing this allowed me to express my feelings about the violence that I have been bottling up inside me. I never thought I would win this competition but I’m forever grateful that I did. I would tell other students let your emotions out. You don’t have to be scared.”

    The Department of the Attorney General and the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education (HIDOE) launched DtWT at the start of the 2024–25 school year, with Waiʻanae Intermediate serving as the pilot site.

    “This year has presented significant challenges for our community. However, this writing initiative has given our students a voice, empowering our students to become active agents of change,” Wai‘anae Intermediate School Principal John Wataoka said. “Through their reflective work, our students showed a deep consideration of the unseen impacts of violence and were afforded a positive outlet for expressing their feelings, one that often sparks a discourse of ideas toward potential solutions.”

     

    “Each year, millions of young lives are shaped by violence, leaving behind deep physical and emotional scars,” Attorney General Anne Lopez said. “I am thankful to the Department of Education and my staff for their hard work implementing DtWT this school year. Together, we are already looking at expanding the program to other schools across the state. We want it to become a tool and platform for our youth to express their thoughts and ideas in writing about addressing youth violence.”

    From the start of the school year, Waiʻanae Intermediate educator Nicole Kurata guided 27 students through meaningful conversations that encouraged empathy, self-reflection, and a commitment to positive change. Students were invited to submit essays or poems of up to three pages for consideration.

    Essays were reviewed by a selection panel that included Attorney General Lopez; Department of Law Enforcement Director Mike Lambert; HIDOE Deputy Superintendent Heidi Armstrong; Nānākuli-Wai‘anae Complex Area Superintendent Disa Hauge; and Ashley Atisanoe of the Waiʻanae Coast Community Mental Health Center.

    For more information on the national Do the Write Thing Program, visit www.dtwt.org/program. Photos, video and soundbites from today’s ceremony at Washington Place can be found here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/0dmqmrxecpd9524ptej23/AJBQUafFXUVJxq19w1ZoAXc?rlkey=mj44116a1arukenuolxbluqez&st=rxl6jhtf&dl=0

    # # #

     

    Media contacts:

    Nanea Ching

    Communications Director

    Hawai‘i State Department of Education

    Office: 808-784-6200

    Cell: 808-260-5032

    Email: [email protected]

    Dave Day

    Special Assistant to the Attorney General

    Office: 808-586-1284

    Email: [email protected]

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

     

    Toni Schwartz
    Public Information Officer
    Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General
    Office: 808-586-1252
    Cell: 808-379-9249
     Email: [email protected] 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Seeing Earth as Only NASA Can

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    NASA missions have shared unique views of our home planet for more than 60 years. In that time, science and technology in air and space revolutionized our understanding of the Earth system.

    We continue to move farther into space, documenting the universe around us. It’s when we turn our gaze back home that we are reminded of the significance of Earth.

    To learn more about the NASA missions included in the video, visit:

    ER-2: https://www.nasa.gov/centers-and-facilities/armstrong/er-2-aircraft/
    International Space Station: https://www.nasa.gov/international-space-station/
    EMIT: https://www.earthdata.nasa.gov/data/instruments/emit-imaging-spectrometer
    Space Shuttle: https://www.nasa.gov/reference/the-space-shuttle/
    PACE: https://pace.gsfc.nasa.gov
    Landsat: https://landsat.gsfc.nasa.gov
    GOES East/West: https://science.nasa.gov/mission/goes/
    Messenger: https://science.nasa.gov/mission/messenger/
    Blue Ghost: https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraft/display.action?id=BLUEGHOST
    Apollo 8: Earthrise: https://science.nasa.gov/resource/apollo-8s-iconic-earthrise/
    Artemis I: https://www.nasa.gov/mission/artemis-i/
    Curiosity on Mars: https://science.nasa.gov/resource/earth-from-mars/
    Cassini – The Day the Earth Smiled: https://www.nasa.gov/image-article/day-earth-smiled/
    Voyager I – Pale Blue Dot: https://science.nasa.gov/mission/voyager/voyager-1s-pale-blue-dot/

    Download: https://images.nasa.gov/details/Seeing%20Earth%20as%20Only%20NASA%20Can

    Editor: Shane Apple
    Music: Universal Production Music
    Credit: NASA

    #EarthDay #Earth #POV

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTHUUjTA-LI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Indigenous Peoples: On the frontline of climate change & biodiversity loss UN Chief | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Remarks by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, at the Opening Ceremony of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, 24th session.

    —

    The world’s Indigenous Peoples are magnificently diverse in cultures, languages, histories, and traditions…

    But united by common features and common challenges.

    You are the pre-eminent stewards of the world’s biodiversity and of the environment.

    Your knowledge and traditional practices are leading models of conservation and sustainable use – reflecting your commitment to living life in harmony with Mother Earth, and to the wellbeing and rights of future generations.

    The world has much to learn from your wisdom, insights and approaches, which prioritise the health of ecosystems over short-term economic gains…

    As we tackle the many challenges that we face – building sustainable food systems, moving to sustainable ways of livings, and more, we must recognize that the world does not always value you as it should.

    —

    The difficulties facing Indigenous Peoples around the world are an affront to dignity and justice. And a source of deep sorrow for me personally.

    Indigenous women face particular challenges – including barriers to political participation, economic opportunities, and essential services.

    On a trip to Suriname three years ago, I had the honour of visiting the Kaliña Peoples.

    I witnessed how climate change is devastating their lands, and destroying their way of life.

    And I heard how mercury from illegal mining is harming Indigenous Peoples in the region, as in many others, namely, including Brazil – poisoning their water and food supplies.

    Everywhere, Indigenous Peoples are on the frontline of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss – despite having done nothing to create these crises and everything to try to stop them.

    Eviction and illegal exploitation continue to harm your people and grossly violate your rights.

    You face marginalisation, discrimination, unemployment, economic disadvantage and horrendous violence – particularly as you seek to defend our common home.

    And too often you are excluded from decisions that directly impact your land and territories – threatening your ways of life and food security.

    Meanwhile, a looming threat grows – the race for minerals critical to the global energy transition – a large proportion of which are located on or close to Indigenous Peoples’ territories.

    As demand soars, too often we see dispossession; exclusion and marginalisation in decision-making; the rights of Indigenous Peoples trampled and health jeopardised, all as you are denied the benefits you deserve.

    Full remarks: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/statement/2025-04-21/secretary-general%E2%80%99s-remarks-the-opening-ceremony-of-the-un-permanent-forum-indigenous-issues

    Watch in 6 UN official languages: https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1c/k1cjhgujod

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XXw8GlaF9E

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: I AM VA: Brian’s Story

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    After serving in Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Navy Veteran Brian Treasure struggled with PTSD. Despite finding steady employment and leading a successful life, Brian was haunted by nightmares from the relentless stress he endured in the military. He fell into a downward spiral of homelessness and addiction, using drugs to escape the trauma of his past.

    Brian’s journey took a positive turn when he sought help from VA, and was introduced to the Compensated Work Therapy program.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTUapgYJNvk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DPIIT and Stride Ventures announce the winner of the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge 2025, with funding of up to INR 10 crore

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 22 APR 2025 4:28PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), in partnership with  Startup India and Stride Ventures, announced the startup Buoyancy Plastics for Change Recycling Private Limited as the winner of the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge 2025, an initiative aimed at recognizing and empowering high-impact, homegrown startups.

    The winner was chosen from over 120 startup applications received during the 30 days of running the challenge. Applications were received from 22 states of the country, from startups working in the sustainability, fintech and e-mobility sector.

    The winner of this Challenge, Plastics for Change, was founded in 2015, and focuses on building a Fair Trade verified recycled plastics supply chain. The company is currently focused on ethical sourcing and aggregation of plastic waste to provide high-quality rPET, rHDPE and rPP materials to recycling units. Working directly with informal waste and plastics collectors and integrating them into the formal economy, the startup currently has a collection capacity of more than 20,000-ton and is now aiming to further deepen its presence in the Indian plastics recycling sector.

    Stride Ventures is the largest venture debt fund in India, having committed over $1 Billion to over 170 new-age startups in the last five years. Stride has now expanded its footprint to Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh and London. Earlier this year, Stride Ventures signed an MOU with DPIIT to provide funding, network, market access as well as mentorship support to budding startups across the country, as well as help Indian startups scale globally.

    This was the first time Stride Ventures hosted a Bharat Startup Grand Challenge. For the winner’s, Stride Ventures announced investing up to ₹10 Crore, subject to due diligence, along with further ecosystem support, mentorship and access to Stride’s network to help further scale up the startup’s endeavours in sustainability and circularity in India.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan

    (Release ID: 2123468) Visitor Counter : 48

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: TRAI releases recommendations on ‘the issues Related to Critical Services in the M2M Sector, and Transfer of Ownership of M2M SIMs’

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Communications

    TRAI releases recommendations on ‘the issues Related to Critical Services in the M2M Sector, and Transfer of Ownership of M2M SIMs’

    Posted On: 22 APR 2025 3:27PM by PIB Delhi

    Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has today released its recommendations on ‘the issues Related to Critical Services in the M2M Sector, and Transfer of Ownership of M2M SIMs’. 

    1. Earlier, Department of Telecommunications (DoT), through its letter dated 01.01.2024, had referred to the TRAI’s recommendations dated 05.09.2017 on ‘Spectrum, Roaming and QoS related requirements in Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Communications’, and had requested TRAI to provide reconsidered recommendations, as per the provisions of Section 11 of the TRAI Act 1997 on the following issues:
    1. Identification of Critical Services in the M2M Sector
    2. Transfer of Ownership of M2M SIMs
    1. In this regard, TRAI, on 24.06.2024, issued a consultation paper on ‘the Issues Related to Critical Services in the M2M Sector, and Transfer of Ownership of M2M SIMs’ for soliciting comments and counter comments from stakeholders. In response, TRAI received 16 comments and one counter-comment from stakeholders. An open house discussion on the consultation paper was held on 24.10.2024 through virtual mode.
    1. Based on the comments received from stakeholders and on its own analysis, TRAI has finalized its recommendations on ‘the Issues Related to Critical Services in the M2M Sector, and Transfer of Ownership of M2M SIMs’.
    1. Machine to Machine (M2M) communication can enable applications and services across a broad range of vertical markets such as automotive, utilities, healthcare, safety & surveillance, financial, public safety, smart city and agriculture. At present, the M2M ecosystem is at an early stage of growth of its lifecycle. As the M2M ecosystem matures, and thereby gains user confidence, more and more services will be delivered to individuals, enterprises and public institutions by using Internet of Things (IoT). Many of such services would be critical IoT services, requiring ultra-reliable, low latency M2M connectivity with very high availability. As critical IoT will be used for delivering services of critical importance, the identification of services as critical IoT service requires to be done well in advance. The identification of a service as a critical IoT service would enable user agencies to enter into suitable service level agreements (SLAs) with telecom service providers. Through the SLAs, telecom service providers may be held accountable for ensuring that the M2M connectivity provided by them meets the requisite telecommunication service performance parameters (such as latency, reliability, and availability) which are sacrosanct for the successful operation of the concerned critical IoT service. Through these recommendations, TRAI has recommended a broad guiding framework for classifying a service as a ‘critical IoT service’. TRAI has recommended that a service should be classified as a ‘critical IoT service’, if it passes the following twin tests:
    1. Whether the service (application) demands ultra-reliable low-latency M2M connectivity with very high availability? 
    2. Whether any disruption of the M2M connectivity used for delivering the service (application) will have a debilitating impact on national security, economy, public health, or public safety?
    1. TRAI has recommended that the classification of critical IoT services of a particular domain/ sector should be done by the ministry/ regulatory body concerned in consultation with Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
    1. TRAI has also recommended that for the classification of critical IoT services, DoT should devise an institutional mechanism for the assistance of concerned ministries/ regulatory bodies.
    1. TRAI has recommended a technology-agnostic approach for the provision of critical IoT services. Specifically, TRAI has recommended that any wireless M2M communication technology (utilizing unlicensed spectrum, or licensed spectrum) or wired M2M communication technology should be permitted to be used for the provision of critical IoT services if it meets the prescribed service performance benchmarks.
    1. Owing to the pervasive nature of the deployment of IoT devices in all walks of life, the importance of security and privacy requirements of IoT devices is paramount. The security and privacy concerns from IoT devices emanate essentially from the M2M communication modules embedded in them through which IoT devices get connected to telecommunication networks including public internet. With a view to allaying security and privacy concerns in respect of IoT devices, particularly those which are used in critical sectors, TRAI has recommended that the M2M communication modules embedded/ plugged in all IoT devices (which are capable of being connected to telecommunication networks) deployed in the critical sectors identified by National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC), Government of India should be notified under the framework of Mandatory Testing & Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE) in a phased manner.
    1. Through these recommendations, TRAI has recommended that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) should establish a framework for the transfer of M2M Service Provider (M2MSP) registration/ authorisation to the resultant entity in case of merger, demerger, acquisition etc. of M2MSP entities.
    1. TRAI has also recommended that DoT should introduce an enabling provision for the transfer of the ownership of M2M SIMs from one M2MSP registration holder/ authorised entity to another.
    1. The recommendations have been placed on the TRAI’s website www.trai.gov.in. For clarification/ information, if any, Shri Akhilesh Kumar Trivedi, Advisor (Network Spectrum & Licensing), TRAI, may be contacted at Telephone Number +91-11-20907758 or email at advmn@trai.gov.in.

    ***

    Samrat

    (Release ID: 2123440)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Unlocking $25+ Billion Exports in India’s Hand & Power Tools Sector

    Source: Government of India

    Unlocking $25+ Billion Exports in India’s Hand & Power Tools Sector

    Forging India’s Future

    Posted On: 22 APR 2025 3:23PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    The tools industry—comprising hand and power tools—is a foundational pillar of the global manufacturing ecosystem, enabling production across multiple sectors such as construction, automotive, electronics, and infrastructure. In April 2025, NITI Aayog and the Foundation for Economic Development jointly published the report “Unlocking $25+ Billion Exports: India’s Hand & Power Tools Sector”, laying out a comprehensive roadmap to scale up India’s global exports from the current $1 billion to over $25 billion by 2035.

     

    India’s current export footprint in this sector remains modest, yet it possesses key strengths—low-cost labor, strategic trade positioning, and a growing manufacturing base—that offer significant potential to transform the nation into a competitive global player.

     

    This report is both a clarion call and a roadmap,

    urging policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to seize a transformative export opportunity worth over $25 billion in the next decade.

     

    Overview

    • Global Market Size (2022): ~$100 billion
      • Hand Tools: $34 billion
      • Power Tools: $63 billion
    • Projected Market Size (2035): $190 billion (CAGR: 53%)
      • Hand Tools: $60 billion
      • Power Tools: $134 billion
    • India’s exports in 2025:
      • Hand Tools: $600 million (1.8% global share)
      • Power Tools: $425 million (0.7% global share)

     

    Targets by 2035 for India:

    • Hand Tools: 25% market share → $15 billion exports
    • Power Tools: 10% market share → $12 billion exports
    • Total Export Opportunity: Over $25 billion
    • Employment Generation: 3.5 million direct and indirect jobs

     

    India’s Current Export Profile

    Hand Tools

    India’s hand tools sector has developed a robust MSME ecosystem with key manufacturing clusters in Punjab (Jalandhar, Ludhiana), Maharashtra (Mumbai, Nagpur), and Rajasthan (Nagaur). Common exports include wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and hand saws. The sector’s success is linked to labor-intensive processes, localized supply chains, and historical evolution post-Independence.

    Power Tools

    The country currently lacks a comprehensive electronic manufacturing ecosystem for power tools, which require precision components like motors and batteries.

    Export Destinations and Trade Opportunities

     

    • Top Importers: USA and European Union account for 55–60% of global imports.

    • Although India’s exports have also grown by 24% year-on-year,

      there remains considerable untapped potential for further expansion.

      Tariff Advantage: U.S. imposed 7.5–25% additional tariffs on Chinese tools, creating new opportunities for alternative suppliers like India.

     

    Existing Government Support Mechanisms

    • Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP): RoDTEP provides rebates to exporters for taxes and duties on exported goods to help make Indian exporters more competitive in international markets. Under this scheme, hand tools exporters get rebates of 1.1% as a percentage of their Free on Board (FOB) value, and power tools get rebates of 0.9% as a percentage of their FOB value.
    • Duty Drawback Scheme: Duty Free Import Authorisation (DFIA) allows duty-free import of inputs but on a post export basis only. Inputs imported under this scheme are exempted of the Basic Customs Duty only. To qualify, the inputs must be listed under the Standard Input Output Norms (SION), and a minimum value addition of 20% must be achieved. Under this scheme, manufacturers of hand and power tools are eligible for duty drawbacks of 1.5% to 2% on their input costs, as per the Duty drawback rates, 2023.

     

    Strategic Policy Recommendations

    1. Create World-Class Clusters for Hand Tools

    • Goal: 3–4 clusters spanning ~4000 acres by 2035
    • Estimated Investment: ₹12,000 crore (Government) + ₹45,000 crore (Industry)
    • Cluster Features:
      • Plug-and-play industrial infrastructure
      • Worker housing, R&D centers, testing labs
      • Convention facilities, 24×7 power and water supply

    • To build world class clusters, it is important to invest in

      infrastructure such as effluent treatment plants, guaranteed 24×7 power supply, and plug and play factories.

      Governance Model: Public-Private Partnership (PPP) via a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), state Cluster Authority, and private developers

     

    2. Structural Reforms

    • Reduce import duties and rationalize Quality Control Orders (QCOs).
    • Reform Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) scheme to ease compliance.
    • Align labor laws with global standards (e.g., 300 hours quarterly overtime).
    • Liberalize Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and ground coverage norms.
    • Ensure 24×7 low-cost electricity and improve logistics.

    • If factor market reforms are implemented, no additional

      fiscal incentive will be required from the government.

      Encourage domestic R&D and ease technology transfer.

     

    3. Bridge Support (Contingent)

    If reforms are delayed, bridge support worth ₹5,800 crore over 5 years is recommended.

    • Hand Tools: ₹3,450 crore
      • Logistics: ₹450 crore
      • Interest Subvention: ₹700 crore
      • Competitiveness Incentive: ₹700 crore
      • Capital Subsidy: ₹1,600 crore
    • Power Tools: ₹2,230 crore
      • Interest Subvention: ₹430 crore
      • Competitiveness Incentive: ₹1,500 crore

      • Support should be treated as a strategic investment,

        not a subsidy, with a projected return of 2–3 times in tax revenues.

        Capital Subsidy: ₹300 crore

     

    Conclusion

    India stands at a pivotal juncture in its industrial transformation. The tools sector, though currently underrepresented in global trade, offers a rare and time-sensitive opportunity to reposition India as a reliable manufacturing alternative to China. The roadmap presented by NITI Aayog focuses on leveraging India’s inherent strengths—abundant labor, a rising manufacturing base, and sectoral synergies—while urgently addressing its structural weaknesses.

    References

    https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2025-04/India_Hand_Power_Tools_Sector_Report.pdf

    Click here to see PDF.

    ****

    Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Rishita Aggarwal

    (Release ID: 2123437) Visitor Counter : 71

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Signs Bipartisan Bill Protecting Animals by Promoting Adoption In Colorado

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis joined by Lt. Governor Primavera, and bill sponsors, signed SB25-085 – Health-Related Research Test Subjects, sponsored by Senators Cathy Kipp and John Carson and Representatives Manny Rutinel and Amy Paschal. The bill aims to provide an avenue for adoption of a dog or cat from a health-related research facility.

    “From now on, dogs and cats that are subjects to scientific research in Colorado, will be valued for their service and given the opportunity to find a forever home. I thank the sponsors for their work on this bill and am happy to sign it into law today,” said Governor Polis.

    “This legislation reflects who we are in Colorado — a state that values science and innovation, but also leads with empathy,” said Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera. “These animals play an important role in advancing medical breakthroughs, and they deserve another chapter of life when their work is done.”

    ###
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chobani to Make $1.2 Billion Facility in Upstate New York

    Source: US State of New York

    [embedded content]

    [embedded content]

    Chobani’s latest facility will be built at the Triangle parcel located at Griffiss Business and Technology Park, which was awarded more than $23 million from FAST NY last year to complete infrastructure and transportation improvements. When at full capacity, Chobani will process over 12 million pounds of milk per day, representing a large economic opportunity for the state’s dairy farms.

    Chobani has selected Rome, New York for this project based on:

    • A skilled local workforce, including a high concentration of military veterans living in the area, as well as graduates from nearby colleges
    • Easy access to the major population of the East Coast
    • Availability of affordable housing in the area as well as Governor Hochul’s ongoing commitment to building affordable homes in New York State
    • Additional resources coming from the state to support the creation of new jobs

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Today’s announcement represents how New York is building a stronger, more sustainable economy that creates jobs, promotes tradable industries and supports additional economic sectors in the state. This public-private partnership with Chobani will grow the market for New York’s dairy farmers, create jobs that provide a path to the middle class, and develop even more world-class food products that are widely recognized across North America. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, the State continues to invest in the companies and jobs that bolster New York’s economic vitality of today and tomorrow.”

    New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Twenty years ago, Chobani opened its first U.S. facility right here in New York, so we’re thrilled with their decision to expand their roots here with a brand-new manufacturing facility in the Mohawk Valley. This is tremendous news for our state and for our dairy farmers, who will be supplying milk to this state-of-the-art processing facility. Chobani has long been a part of New York’s world-class dairy industry, and this feels like a real full-circle moment to welcome them to another region in our state. I thank Governor Hochul and all of the partners involved and look forward to the positive long-term impact this will have on our dairy community statewide.”

    New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “New York’s dairy industry is essential to the success of our state’s economy, putting food on the table for families statewide and providing countless pathways to good-paying careers. Governor Hochul has made strengthening New York’s agricultural workforce a top priority and the results speak for themselves. Chobani’s massive investment in the Mohawk Valley will continue to expand our state’s impressive, and delicious, dairy offerings and bring career opportunities to so many New Yorkers, including those in underserved populations.”

    To help facilitate the company’s investment and expansion in the Mohawk Valley, Empire State Development (ESD) has agreed to provide Chobani up to $73 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits to support the creation of more than 1,000 jobs at the Rome location. Additionally, the company has pledged to collaborate with ESD to develop workforce training that aims to train and provide job opportunities at Chobani to underserved populations.

    The dairy industry is the largest single segment of New York’s $8 billion agricultural industry. The state has nearly 3,000 dairy farms that produce 16.1 billion pounds of milk annually, making New York the fifth largest dairy state in the United States. New York is the largest producer of yogurt, sour cream, cream cheese and cottage cheese and the fifth largest producer of milk. The dairy community in New York includes both large dairy operations and small, family run farms. It also boasts approximately 200 dairy processing facilities of various types and sizes, from major global processing companies to small artisanal dairy product makers.

    Chobani has been a major employer in the Mohawk Valley for decades, and this massive new $1.2 billion investment will bring more than 1,000 good-paying jobs to Oneida County.”

    Governor Kathy Hochul

    U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said, “Today, Chobani makes Upstate New York the No. 1 Greek yogurt producer in America. Chobani’s $1 billion investment — the largest investment in natural food making in American history — is a win-win-win for Chobani, NY dairy farmers, and the Mohawk Valley economy and jobs. I’ve fought to help Chobani grow since the very beginning to lay the foundation for a day like today. When Chobani wanted to expand the reach of their delicious and nutritious Greek yogurt, I helped get them included in the national school lunch program to be enjoyed by children across the country. With this new factory, more people will be able to enjoy their ‘Made In NY’ Greek yogurt than ever before. Dairy farmers are the beating heart of Upstate NY and this massive new facility and 1,000 new jobs will help support so many family farms across the state. I sincerely thank Chobani’s amazing CEO, and my very good friend, Hamdi Ulukaya for continuing his commitment to our state. I also thank Governor Hochul: without her leadership, today would not be possible. New York is proud that Chobani calls it home and more people will be enjoying their yogurt that comes from NY dairy farms made here in the Mohawk Valley than ever before.”

    Representative John Mannion said, “This transformational investment by Chobani is a major win for New York State, and its success is a top priority for the Mohawk Valley. Residents of NY-22 will help fill the 1,000 new jobs and increased demand will benefit local dairy farmers and strengthen their bottom lines. I was proud to support FAST NY in the State Senate, working with Governor Hochul to drive economic growth and create good paying jobs for New Yorkers. I’m grateful for the Governor’s leadership and for Chobani’s continued commitment to New York agriculture, our workers, and our communities.”

    State Senator Joseph Griffo said, “I thank Chobani for their willingness to continue to invest in Upstate New York and appreciate the efforts of all those who have helped make today’s announcement a reality, especially Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente Jr. and the Governor and Empire State Development. This major expansion will generate new employment opportunities, boost the local and regional economies, strengthen the state’s dairy industry and enhance the City of Rome, Oneida County and Upstate New York. I am looking forward to watching as this project progresses and am excited about the significant, positive, transformational impact it will potentially have on the community, region and state.”

    Assemblymember Marianne Buttenchon said, “I welcome Chobani to my district and look forward to a great partnership. Chobani is an amazing employer that provides healthy, delicious products for our families. They also always support our local communities by helping those in need. I sincerely thank Chobani for choosing Oneida County and for all they do for New York State.”

    Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente said, “This is a generational win for Oneida County and the entire Mohawk Valley. We believed in the potential of the Griffiss Triangle site and invested over $6 million to make it shovel-ready because we knew it could attract a world-class partner like Chobani. I’m proud of the role Oneida County played in bringing this transformative project to fruition. This $1 billion investment will create over 1,000 good-paying jobs, boost our local economy, and reaffirm our region as a hub for innovation and opportunity. We couldn’t be happier to welcome Chobani to Rome and begin this new chapter together.”

    Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan said, “We are incredibly grateful to Governor Hochul and the State of New York for their continued support of Chobani’s tremendous project here in the City of Rome. This transformative investment marks a major step forward for our community, bringing new jobs, opportunities, innovation, and growth. The redevelopment of the Triangle Site was a visionary effort — one that required forward-thinking investments, long-term commitment and dedication. We are very proud to be a part of this exciting new chapter for Rome.”

    Embedded Flickr Album

    Governor Hochul’s Ongoing Support for the Agricultural Industry
    Today’s expansion of Chobani in Rome complements Governor Hochul’s commitment to the agriculture industry in New York State. Governor Hochul has made record investments to support the state’s farmers. Initiatives such as Nourish NY and the 30 percent Initiative have connected locally grown food with underserved communities while boosting the agricultural economy. Governor Hochul has invested $55 million to help dairy farms adopt sustainable practices and modernize operations and protected and enhanced the state’s farming industry through an $82 million investment in agricultural stewardship programs.

    In her most recent State of the State, Governor Hochul has continued to build on these efforts and has proposed additional investment in agricultural stewardship programs and will provide additional funding to research and implement climate-resilient practices on dairy farms. Additionally, the Governor has proposed the expansion of agriculture education in New York’s schools. More information on the Governor’s 2025 State of the State proposals for New York’s agriculture industry.

    About Chobani
    Chobani is a food maker with a mission of making high-quality and nutritious food accessible to more people, while elevating our communities and making the world a healthier place. In short: making good food for all. In support of this mission, Chobani is a purpose-driven, people-first, food-and-wellness-focused company, and has been since its founding in 2005 by Hamdi Ulukaya, an immigrant to the U.S. The Company manufactures yogurt, oat milk and creamers — Chobani yogurt is America’s No.1 yogurt brand, made with natural ingredients without artificial preservatives. Following the 2023 acquisition of La Colombe, a leading coffee roaster with a shared commitment to quality, craftmanship and impact, the Company began selling cold-pressed espresso and lattes on tap at cafés nationwide, as well as Ready to Drink (RTD) coffee beverages at retail.

    Chobani uses food as a force for good in the world — putting humanity first in everything it does. The company’s philanthropic efforts prioritize giving back to its communities and beyond: working to eradicate child hunger, supporting immigrants, refugees and underrepresented people, honoring veterans, and protecting the planet. Chobani manufactures its products in New York, Idaho, Michigan and Australia, and its products are available throughout North America and distributed in Australia and other select markets.

    For more information, please visit www.chobani.com and www.lacolombe.com, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On Earth Day, $60 Million for Green Resiliency Grants

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced $60 million in Environmental Bond Act funding for the next round of Green Resiliency Grants. The program supports vital stormwater management and resilient infrastructure projects in flood-prone communities across New York State. This action advances Governor Hochul’s comprehensive clean water and resiliency agenda to protect New Yorkers from extreme weather, while making these projects more affordable to minimize the financial impact on local ratepayers.

    “On Earth Day, we’re reminded that New Yorkers are on the front lines of increasingly dangerous and frequent extreme weather events,” Governor Hochul said. “This investment helps prepare and protect our homes, neighborhoods and families when disaster strikes — all while creating more good-paying jobs. This is how we fight for the future New Yorkers deserve.”

    The $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 continues to deliver historic investments to safeguard water quality, reduce pollution, strengthen resiliency and create green jobs.

    Governor Hochul launched the Green Resiliency Grant program in 2024, awarding $60 million to 13 transformational projects across the State in the inaugural round. Building on the success of the 2024 program, the second round will prioritize projects offering significant risk reduction, helping communities build storm-ready infrastructure that provides long-term solutions and stability.

    Green infrastructure projects provide benefits such as:

    • Safer, more resilient communities by managing stormwater to mitigate flooding and better protect our homes and businesses.
    • Cleaner water and air by reducing and treating stormwater at the source.
    • Cooler cities by reducing urban heat island effect to create a more comfortable environment.
    • Thriving ecosystems by restoring habitats to bring nature back to communities.
    • Vibrant communities by encouraging economic development, revitalizing neighborhoods and enhancing recreational opportunities.

    The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation will open the grant round on May 1. Applications, guidance, and webinar information will be available on EFC’s website. Any community that needs help with its project is encouraged to reach out to EFC’s Community Assistance Teams.

    New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation President & CEO Maureen A. Coleman said, “Families shouldn’t have to live with the fear of flooding every time it rains. With Governor Hochul’s support through the Green Resiliency Grant program, we’re giving communities the tools they need to build safer neighborhoods, cleaner waterways, and a stronger local economy. These investments don’t just build vital resilient infrastructure—they protect New Yorkers, restore peace of mind, and create jobs. This is resilience in action.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “The Green Resiliency Grant program is another example of how the historic Clean Air, Clean Water and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act and Governor Hochul are making sustained and generational investments to protect and strengthen New York’s flood-prone communities. The $60 million grants announced today will provide significant support for local governments to implement transformative green infrastructure projects that will help make their communities more resilient to extreme weather caused by climate change across New York State.”

    State Senator Pete Harckham said, “These new climate resiliency grants announced by Governor Hochul will allow local municipalities across the state to identify climate-smart projects that will ensure the health and safety of our residents. The partnership of the governor and state legislature in building more resilient communities shows the need to address the impacts of the climate crisis head-on while also creating good green jobs and protecting the environment.”

    Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick said, “As climate change continues to intensify extreme weather patterns, we must make investments statewide to prepare for this new reality. Not only will this essential funding help protect our communities’ homes and infrastructure but will also help to mitigate the discharge of untreated stormwater into our waterways. I look forward to seeing these grants make a difference around the state.”

    New York’s Commitment to Water Quality
    New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure, including more than $2.2 billion in financial assistance from EFC for local water infrastructure projects in State Fiscal Year 2024 alone. With an additional $500 million proposed for clean water infrastructure in Governor Hochul’s FY26 Executive Budget, New York will have invested a record $6 billion in water infrastructure since 2017.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB supports innovative climate action in emerging markets alongside private equity firm LeapFrog Investments

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • EIB Global commits $60 million to Climate Investment Strategy of LeapFrog Investments alongside World Bank Group’s International Finance Corporation on margins of Spring Meetings in Washington.
    • LeapFrog aims to deploy $500 million for green technologies in Africa and Asia.
    • Other partners include the World Bank Group’s International Finance Corporation, Singaporean investment firm Temasek and the Swiss Development Finance Institution

    The European Investment Bank is accelerating the use of green technologies in Africa and Asia with a $60 million pledge for private equity firm LeapFrog Investments (LeapFrog). The pledge by the EIB, financial arm of the European Union,  is for a LeapFrog Climate Investment Strategy that has also drawn support from the World Bank Group’s International Finance Corporation (IFC), Singapore headquartered global investment companyTemasek and the Swiss Development Finance Institution (SIFEM).

    LeapFrog aims to deploy $500 million under its Climate Investment Strategy to scale green tools and technologies for consumers in Africa and Asia. Millions of people are expected to have access to better and greener transport, energy, food and housing as a result of the initiative.

    EIB Group President Nadia Calviño said: “Today’s announcement is an example of public-private partnership at its best, and a strong statement on Europe’s climate leadership. At the EIB, we are staying the course and consolidating our role as The Climate Bank.”

    Consumers in South Asia, Southeast Asia and Africa account for 25% of global emissions of greenhouse gases, a figure set to rise to as much as 73% by 2030 without a green transition. Directing capital in these markets to actions that counter climate change is key to fostering long-term and sustainable economic growth.

    An initial investment under LeapFrog’s Climate Investment Strategy supports Battery Smart, India’s largest battery-as-a-service provider for two and three wheelers, providing riders with low-carbon mobility. Other sectors of interest include rooftop solar and clean cooking.

     “The world’s four billion  consumers in emerging markets constitute half of humanity – they have every right to rise but, without green tools and technologies, their total emissions will blow through the world’s carbon budget. This is also where the greatest opportunities lie — investing to support  a generational  transition for the majority of global consumers and producers. We are grateful to have the support of our longstanding partners EIB, IFC and Temasek in achieving this mission,” said Dr Andy Kuper, CEO and Founder of LeapFrog Investments.

    LeapFrog’s Climate Investment Strategy was recognised today at the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund Spring Meetings by the heads of the EIB Group, LeapFrog and by IFC Vice-President of Industries Mohammed Gouled and Temasek CEO Dilhan Pillay.

    Background information

    About the European Investment Bank Group:

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. 

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.   

    EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner of Global Gateway. We aim to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 – around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. Within Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to people, companies and institutions through our offices across the world. High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here. 

    About LeapFrog Investments

    LeapFrog invests in healthcare, financial services and climate solutions businesses in high-growth global markets. Its companies deliver distinctive impact and robust returns, growing revenues on average 23% a year. LeapFrog companies now reach 537 million people with essential services in 37 countries. The firm has raised billions of dollars from global institutional investors, including a $500m commitment by Temasek to LeapFrog and its growth equity funds. LeapFrog has twice been ranked by Fortune as one of the top Companies to Change the World, alongside Apple and Novartis, and was named inaugural Pioneer in Impact by the FT and IFC at the Transformational Business Awards.

    For more information, go to: www.leapfroginvest.com.

    EIB supports innovative climate action in emerging markets alongside private equity firm LeapFrog Investments
    EIB supports innovative climate action in emerging markets alongside private equity firm LeapFrog Investments
    ©EIB
    Download original

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Possible double counting of CO2 and distortions caused by unclear rules on the use of subsidised options such as biomethane to meet requirements – E-001494/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001494/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Martin Sonneborn (NI)

    Regulation (EU) 2023/1805 on the use of renewable and low-carbon fuels in maritime transport aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions produced by maritime transport. The regulation refers to the sustainability and emissions performance criteria in the Renewable Energy Directives (RED II/III). The question of whether or not already subsidised options for meeting those criteria, such as subsidised biomethane and similar energy sources, can be used to meet the targets is left open, however.

    This creates a risk that the same CO2 is counted twice: once in the country of origin – through national support programmes such as feed-in tariffs – and again in calculations relating to the obligations arising from the regulation. In the absence of a clear legal framework, there is a risk that subsidised options are promoted over non-subsidised options, given that subsidised options are often available on the market at lower prices.

    Revised Directive 2003/87/EC on the inclusion of shipping in the scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading (EU ETS) expressly and repeatedly calls for double counting to be avoided. It remains unclear whether that requirement is also incorporated into the regulation.

    • 1.Is there a guarantee that greenhouse gas reductions are not counted twice for the purposes of this regulation?
    • 2.Can subsidised options to meet requirements be taken into account, provided that they meet the criteria of the Renewable Energy Directives?
    • 3.Does the Commission intend to issue corresponding guidelines or delegated acts? If so, when are they planned to be published?

    Submitted: 10.4.2025

    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ordinary people’s insurance funds and investments plundered for the needs of the EU’s war industry – E-001513/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001513/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kostas Papadakis (NI), Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI)

    The question of who will be called upon to pay the EUR 800 billion for ReArm Europe has been answered through the formation of the ‘Savings and Investment Union’. Guided by the ‘Letta Report’ and the protocols of the EU’s war economy, a direction is being given to seize the EUR 33 trillion of private savings in the EU ‘to cover the strategic needs of the EU’, as well as the more than EUR 10 trillion in so-called low-yield deposit accounts, with an ‘emphasis on the supplementary pensions sector’.

    The Commission also announced ‘a review of existing EU pension legislation to increase participation in supplementary pensions’, i.e. the regulation introducing the ‘Pan-European Personal Pension Product’ and the related ‘IORP Directive’. The EU is also considering compulsory registration in capitalised pension funds, as is already the case in Greece, for example, with the Hellenic Auxiliary Pensions Defined Contributions Fund (TEKA), which siphons off contributions from insured persons.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.What is the Commission’s position on the fact that, with the activation of the so-called EU ‘Savings and Investment Union’, the reserves of insurance funds and the deposits of working households are being sequestered and plundered, and the lifetime efforts of working people are being raided for the needs of the war industry?
    • 2.What is the Commission’s position on the fair demands of pensioners in Greece for the immediate return of all retroactive payments, based on the decisions of the Council of State, to all pensioners and not just those who appealed to the courts, as well as for the return of the 13th and 14th month pensions?

    Submitted: 12.4.2025

    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: TMD Energy Limited Announces Closing of Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TMD Energy Limited (the “Company”) (NYSE American: TMDE), together with its subsidiaries is a Malaysia and Singapore based services provider engaged in integrated bunkering services which involves ship-to-ship transfer of marine fuels, ship management services and vessel chartering services, today announced the closing of its previously announced initial public offering of 3,100,000 ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share (the “Shares”) at a public offering price of US$3.25 per share to the public (the “Offering”), for a total of approximately US$10.08 million gross proceeds to the Company, before deducting underwriting discounts and offering expenses. The Shares began trading on the NYSE American on April 21, 2025, under the symbol “TMDE”.

    In addition, the Company has granted the underwriters an option, exercisable within 45 days from the closing date of the Offering, to purchase up to an additional 465,000 Shares at the public offering price, less underwriting discounts, to cover the over-allotment option, if any.

    The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for (i) the purchase of cargo oil; (ii) defraying listing expenses; and (iii) working capital and other general corporate purposes.

    Maxim Group LLC (“Maxim”) acted as sole book-running manager of the Offering. Loeb & Loeb LLP acted as legal counsel to the Company, and Pryor Cashman LLP acted as legal counsel to Maxim Group LLC in connection with the Offering.

    A registration statement on Form F-1, as amended (File No.: 333-283704) relating to the Offering was initially filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on December 10, 2024 and was declared effective by the SEC on March 31, 2025. The Offering is being made only by means of a prospectus, forming a part of the registration statement. Copies of the final prospectus relating to the Offering may be obtained from Maxim Group LLC, 300 Park Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10022, United States of America or by email at syndicate@maximgrp.com. In addition, a copy of the prospectus relating to the Offering may be obtained via the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Company’s securities, nor shall such securities be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation, or sale of any of the Company’s securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction.

    About TMD Energy Limited

    TMD Energy Limited and its subsidiaries (“TMDEL Group”) are principally involved in marine fuel bunkering services specializing in the supply and marketing of marine gas oil and marine fuel oil of which include high sulfur fuel oil, low sulfur fuel oil and very low sulfur fuel oil, to ships and vessels at sea. TMDEL Group is also involved in the provision of ship management services for in-house and external vessels, as well as vessel chartering. As of today, TMDEL Group operates in 19 ports across Malaysia with a fleet of 15 bunkering vessels. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at: www.tmdel.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, the Company’s Offering. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs, including the expectation that the Offering will be successfully completed. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may”, “could”, “will”, “should”, “would”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “project” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    TMD Energy Limited
    Email: corporate@tmdel.com

    WFS Investor Relations
    Email : services@wealthfsllc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Gaza’s Missing – Buried under the Rubble | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Local reports from the Gaza Strip indicate that more than 11,000 people remain missing since the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023. Among them are individuals believed to have died under the rubble or whose fates remain unknown to this day.
    The Strip is suffering from a severe shortage of equipment needed to remove debris, as most heavy machinery has been either destroyed or rendered inoperable due to a lack of fuel. According to the United Nations, around 92 per cent of homes in the Gaza Strip -equivalent to approximately 436,000 houses – have been destroyed or damaged as a result of continuous bombardment.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Wt4XDABWZ4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Pope Francis, Mother Earth Day & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (22 April 2025)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Pope Francis
    Mother Earth Day
    Senior Personnel Appointment
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Haiti
    Colombia
    Bolivia
    Ukraine
    Good Defeats Evil

    POPE
    The Secretary-General intends to travel to Rome to attend the funeral of Pope Francis. When we have more details we will share them.

    MOTHER EARTH DAY
    Today is International Mother Earth Day. In his message, the Secretary-General said Mother Earth is running a fever with last year being the hottest ever on record.
    We know what’s causing this sickness, he said, referring to the greenhouse gas emissions humanity is pumping into the atmosphere, but we also know the cure. All countries must create new climate action plans that align with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius – it is essential to avoid the worst of climate catastrophe, he said.
    And as a reminder, tomorrow the Secretary-General, together with President Lula of Brazil, will convene a group of Heads of State and Government for a virtual closed-door meeting to discuss strengthening global efforts to tackle the climate crisis and accelerate a just energy transition. The Secretary-General is expected to deliver some remarks on climate to you at the Security Council stakeout after the meeting. We’ll share more details as we have them.
    And what better way to celebrate Mother Earth Day than with a fashion show. We are unveiling a new tour guide uniform collection this evening at 6:15 p.m. during a fashion show in the Sputnik area of the Visitor’s Lobby. This is a collaboration between the Government of Sweden, the UN Office for Partnerships, the UN Department of Global Communications, and students from the Swedish School of Textiles at the University of Borås. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to sustainable lifestyle, fashion and innovation. Designed with natural fibers, renewable materials, and low-impact production methods, the uniforms embody a fusion of creativity, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility. We look forward to seeing our tour guides in their new uniforms, they have the toughest job in the building.

    SENIOR PERSONNEL APPOINTMENT
    The Secretary-General is appointing of Ian Martin of the United Kingdom as Head of the Strategic Assessment, as part of his UN80 initiative, of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, that you all know as UNRWA.
    The Secretary-General is tasking Mr. Martin with conducting the Strategic Assessment in order to review UNRWA’s impact; implementation of its mandate under present political, financial, security and other constraints; and, consequences and risks for Palestine Refugees.
    As you all know, Ian Martin has had a distinguished service within the United Nations. He was involved in a number of strategic reviews, most recently as the Lead of the Independent Strategic Review of the UN Mission in Somalia and before then as a member of the
    High-Level Independent Panel on Peace Operations. We will share that announcement with you.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    Meanwhile on the ground in Gaza, the situation continues to worsen. Our humanitarian colleagues report that hostilities across the Gaza Strip are continuing, with a devastating toll on civilians and critical infrastructure. Earlier today, local authorities reported attacks by Israeli forces that struck several heavy machinery vehicles across Gaza, halting solid waste and rubble removal services.
    Despite the ongoing hostilities and despite the fact that aid has not come in for more than 50 days, we and our partners are doing what we can to support people throughout the Strip. In Gaza City yesterday, the acting Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Suzanna Tkalec, led a mission to Al Shifa Hospital, where she and partners viewed work underway to install a desalination plant to serve dialysis patients at the facility.
    Our partners also report that several people suffering from severe acute malnutrition have been admitted to hospitals for treatment this week, with cases on the rise.
    Despite extremely low supplies, some 180 community kitchens in Gaza continue to operate every day. However, many of these kitchens are at imminent risk of shutting down since stocks are being depleted. Because of lack of cooking gas, families are resorting to burning plastic to cook their meals.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=22%20April%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=el5ekOhkhYk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Kennedy in Newsweek: Students can thrive without Department of Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) penned this op-ed in Newsweek highlighting the improvement in Louisiana’s K-12 schools and arguing that the states should have the power to decide education policies.
    Key excerpts of the op-ed are below:
    “As graduation season approaches, some high school seniors face a sad reality: They never learned to read.
    “Graduates throughout the country are filing lawsuits against their schools for failing to teach them basic math and reading skills. One student plaintiff said he couldn’t even spell his name. Too many K-12 schools in America have become failure factories.”
    . . .
    “Looking at these numbers, it is easy to understand why many Republicans have proposed shutting down the Department of Education altogether. American students would be better off if the states handled education—and my home state, Louisiana, provides a perfect example.
    “Between 2019 and 2024, Louisiana fourth graders went from ranking dead last in the country for reading proficiency to ranking 16th.”
    . . .
    “The status quo at the Department of Education isn’t working, and the United States cannot afford to keep spending money on departments that don’t deliver results for the American people. Louisiana’s schools are far from perfect, but it is undeniable that our state is on the right track.”
    Read Kennedy’s op-ed here.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Protecting Social Security: Gillibrand, Goldman, Seniors, Unions Rally To Demand No Cuts To Social Security Benefits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today, Senator Gillibrand joined with Rep. Dan Goldman, unions, and seniors at a rally to protect Social Security from the Trump administration and to call on the administration to immediately halt its efforts to cut agency staff and the critical services Social Security provides. New York City is home to one of the largest senior populations living in poverty nationwide, and cuts to agency services or personnel will decimate the Social Security system and deny New Yorkers their hard-earned benefits. 
    “Social Security is a necessary lifeline that ensures Americans have access to benefits they rightfully deserve,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Trump administration is trying to steamroll Social Security with its reckless efforts to undermine this vital program. Instead of tearing Social Security down, President Trump should be reaching across the aisle to strengthen it for future generations. Millions of New Yorkers will be harmed if President Trump gets his way, and I will fight to ensure Social Security benefits remain secure and accessible.”
    “Social Security is not a handout, it’s an earned benefit that New Yorkers have paid into their entire lives to retire with dignity,” said Congressman Dan Goldman. “Donald Trump and the Republican Party are hell-bent on tearing it down. They’re closing field offices, slashing staff, and forcing seniors to travel hours just to complete routine paperwork. Trump, Elon Musk, and their DOGE hatchet men are deliberately erecting roadblocks between seniors and the benefits they’ve been promised. While this president sabotages the programs our communities rely on, I’m calling on New York Republicans to stop cowering and stand up to this assault.”
    “Millions of Americans, including me, have been paying into Social Security our whole working lives. This is an earned benefit, not just something handed to us. Closing offices like the Hearing Office in White Plains will force seniors and people with disabilities to travel much longer distances to fight for their benefits. This amounts to a cut in benefits and we will do all we can to prevent it from happening,” said Congressman George Latimer.
    “Wait times are longer, social security recipients are anxious, and cuts to Social Security Administration staff and giving DOGE access to confidential personal data is wrong-headed,” said Congressman Tom Suozzi. “We must protect Social Security. Undermining Social Security weakens the fragile foundation of the American middle class.”
    “Many of our members dedicated their lives to public service with the promise that social security would be there when they reached retirement age, and now we are seeing that promise under attack by this administration,” said Henry Garrido, Executive Director of District Council 37 AFSCME, AFL-CIO. “The rising costs of housing, food and healthcare are already threatening to leave our retirees and seniors financially devastated, and these planned cuts to social security services must stop immediately.”
    The Social Security Administration (SSA) has already announced plans to cut 7,000 staff, despite the fact that SSA staffing is already at a 50-year low and there are historically long case backlogs. Seniors across the nation have been reporting hours-long wait times, SSA website crashes, and an inability to reach anyone at the Social Security office for help. The so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” is heightening fear among seniors that proposed cuts to SSA will amount to a cut in benefits. With continuous website crashes and some individuals not even being able to log in to their portal, DOGE has decided that now is the right time to terminate SSA employees who are in charge of IT for their website. DOGE is simultaneously planning to shutter Social Security Administration offices across the country, including two in New York. DOGE’s continued attempts to gut this agency at a time of heightened food and energy prices will cause anxiety and confusion amongst beneficiaries, some of whom rely completely on their Social Security benefits to make ends meet.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strong Garners Support for Legislation to Counter the CCP

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON— Congressman Dale Strong’s legislation, the Strategic Homeland Intelligence and Enforcement Legislation to Defend (SHIELD) Against the CCP Act is gaining nationwide support. This week, the legislation was endorsed by the Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), the National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), and the National Fusion Center Association (NFCA).  

    “China represents one of the most aggressive and dangerous threats to our national security today. This bill ensures DHS has a dedicated team working to combat this threat. I’m proud this legislation has broad support from my colleagues in the House and our law enforcement partners. It’s past time to get this legislation to the President’s desk and to protect the American people,” said Representative Dale Strong. 

    “The Chinese Communist Party is actively involved—both directly and indirectly—in supporting transnational criminal organizations engaged in the importation and trafficking of fentanyl, illicit drug precursors, and other controlled substances that have significantly contributed to drug poisonings and deaths across our country. We are grateful to Representative Strong for introducing the SHIELD Against CCP Act and for his commitment to dedicating resources, personnel, and programming to confront these deadly threats. The NNOAC is on the front lines of this fight, and we are committed to working with Congressman Strong and our partners at DHS to confront and dismantle the networks behind illicit drug trafficking,” said Eric Brown, President, National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition. 

    “We applaud Representative Dale Strong for championing the SHIELD Against the CCP Act, legislation that takes critical steps to coordinate efforts in addressing the growing threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party to our homeland. This bill importantly acknowledges the vital role of the National Network of Fusion Centers and the importance of intelligence sharing and collaboration across federal, state, and local levels to protect national security. We are especially grateful for the recognition of our dedicated state and local public safety professionals, both sworn and civilian, who work tirelessly every day to track criminal trends and share timely, credible threat information. Their commitment and expertise are essential to protecting our communities and enhancing our nation’s ability to respond to emerging threats,” said Mike Sena, President, National Fusion Center Association. 

    BACKGROUND: 

    • During a March 9, 2023, House Committee on Homeland Security hearing, national security experts testified on the CCP’s efforts to circumvent U.S. homeland security.  

    • Specifically, witnesses highlighted the CCP’s exploitation of American universities, its theft of intellectual property (IP) and technology, risks to economic supply chain security, the threat it poses to critical infrastructure, and its alarming surveillance activities across the U.S. homeland.  

    • It is estimated that the People’s Republic of China’s theft of U.S. intellectual property extends to the billions, amounting to approximately $4,000 to $6,000 per American family of four after paying taxes.  

    This legislation would establish a dedicated Department of Homeland Security working group to counter threats posed by the CCP and, specifically, would require the group to examine, assess, and report on the spectrum of nontraditional tactics employed by the government of China and the efforts of DHS to counter these malign activities. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On Earth Day, We Finally Have a President Who Follows Science

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Under President Donald J. Trump, America is back — leveraging environmental policies rooted in reality to promote economic growth while maintaining the standards that have afforded Americans the cleanest air and water in the world for generations.
    Unlike the previous administration, which wasted billions of taxpayer dollars on virtue signaling and ineffective grifts, the Trump Administration’s policies are rooted in the belief that Americans are the best stewards of our vast natural resources — no “Green New Scam” required.
    Here are key actions President Trump is taking on the environment:
    President Trump is promoting energy innovation for a healthier future.
    By supporting cutting-edge technologies like carbon capture and storage, nuclear energy, and next-generation geothermal, the Trump Administration is ensuring America leads in both energy production and environmental innovation — producing the cleanest energy in the world. Moreover, by ending the Biden-era pause on liquefied natural gas export approvals, the U.S. is sharing cleaner energy with allies, reducing global emissions, and creating American jobs — building on President Trump’s first-term successes, where the U.S. led the world in greenhouse gas emission reductions.
    President Trump is championing sound forest management.
    The Trump Administration’s proactive forest management policies protect America’s forests, reduce catastrophic wildfires, and promote sustainable land use. By streamlining regulations and expanding responsible logging, President Trump is safeguarding millions of acres of forestland, improving wildlife habitats, and supporting rural economies at the same time.
    President Trump is ending the forced use of paper straws.
    Not only are paper straw mandates flawed in their alleged scientific backing, they’re also bad for humans and the environment. According to a new report, paper straws contain dangerous PFAS chemicals — “forever chemicals” linked to significant long-term health conditions — that infiltrate the water supply. Moreover, studies have found producing paper straws can have a larger carbon footprint and require more water than plastic straws for “approximately zero environmental impact.”
    President Trump is cutting wasteful regulations that stifle innovation and raise costs.
    Actions like pausing restrictive emissions rules for coal plants and revising the National Environmental Policy Act implementation have accelerated responsible energy and infrastructure projects while maintaining rigorous environmental standards — saving American families thousands annually on energy bills and proving that a strong economy and a healthy environment go hand-in-hand.
    President Trump is protecting public lands.
    The Trump Administration has prioritized access to federal lands for energy development while ensuring responsible management. By opening more federal lands and waters for oil, gas, and critical mineral extraction, the U.S. is strengthening energy security and reducing reliance on foreign resources. Simultaneously, investments in conservation, such as $38 billion in clean water infrastructure during President Trump’s first term, continue to safeguard America’s natural heritage for future generations.
    President Trump is pushing back on unfair trade practices that harm the environment and undercut U.S. producers and exporters.
    For years, foreign countries have taken advantage of our generosity at the expense of American workers and the environment. Deforestation in Brazil is at a 15-year high, China’s unfair, harmful fishing practices flood the global market with illegal fish and deplete stocks, and Mexico fails to deter illegal fishing — all while enjoying massive trade deficits with the U.S. and contributing to global environmental degradation.
    President Trump is cracking down on China — the most prolific polluter in the world.
    According to Reuters, China is “responsible for the most ocean plastic pollution per year with an estimated 2.4 million tons, about 30 percent of the global total.” By imposing tough trade measures and promoting American manufacturing, the Administration is reducing reliance on China’s high-pollution industries, ensuring the U.S. leads by example with cleaner production and responsible global stewardship.
    President Trump is protecting wildlife.
    By pausing certain wind projects, President Trump is recognizing wind turbines’ detrimental environmental impact, particularly on wildlife, which often outweighs their benefits.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Greek farmers’ economic collapse and upcoming protests – E-000784/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) supports interventions that help farmers to implement actions to prevent crisis situations and build on medium and long-term resilience.

    For mitigating short-term impacts, the available tools include direct payments, aiming to stabilise farmers’ incomes, risk management tools, and compensation aid to farmers affected by adverse events.

    When needed, the Commission can adopt exceptional support measures, as it was the case in 2022 when input costs increased strongly. In addition, the Commission presented the action plan for Affordable Energy[1] to help reducing energy costs for industry and households and building a genuine Energy Union.

    The CAP is implemented in shared management with the national authorities. Member States have an obligation to protect Union funds from irregularities and fraud, and the Commission is committed to ensuring that these funds are spent appropriately and reach the rightful beneficiaries.

    Furthermore, Member States are also bound by the obligation of disbursing the payments in full and for the measures under the Integrated administration and control system at the latest by June 30 of the year following the claim.

    The Commission conducts risk-based audits to check whether the CAP governance systems put in place by the Member State function properly to ensure the legality and regularity of the CAP expenditure. Such audits were conducted in Greece in 2024, and the Member State was notified of the results.

    • [1] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/strategy/affordable-energy_en
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Support measures for the self-employed – E-000441/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is committed to making life easier for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The economic sustainability of self-employed is part of this commitment .

    The 2020 SME Strategy for a sustainable and digital Europe[1] and the 2023 SME Relief package[2] set out a comprehensive approach for this support.

    However, EU initiatives are only complementary to Member States actions. The EU alone will not be able to support all EU’s self-employed whose financial situation has weakened.

    The Commission is committed to reducing administrative burden for SMEs by 35%[3]. To improve SMEs liquidity, the Commission proposed a revision of the late payment rules[4].

    The guarantee of the SME window of InvestEU[5] further improves liquidity of small companies by inter alia making loans for SMEs cheaper.

    Additional concrete support initiatives are the network of sustainability advisers for SMEs of the Enterprise Europe Network[6] and the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs network[7].

    The Commission also promotes entrepreneurship through the European Entrepreneurship Competence Framework (EntreComp).

    The Council Recommendation[8] on access to social protection for workers and the self-employed[9], encourages Member States to extend access for the self-employed to social protection branches such as unemployment benefits, family-related benefits or benefits related to accidents at work and occupational diseases (see also the Council conclusions on social protection for the self-employed[10]).

    The Commission is aware of the growing housing problem affecting large parts of EU society. That is why the first-ever Commissioner for Housing, Mr Dan Jorgensen, was appointed and a European Affordable Housing Plan will be proposed in 2026.

    • [1]  COM/2020/103 final, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52020DC0103
    • [2] Ibid. footnote 1.
    • [3] First omnibus proposal, forthcoming, February 2025.
    • [4] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/publications/proposal-regulation-combating-late-payment-commercial-transactions_en
    • [5] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/access-finance/investeu/investeu-fund-sme-window_en
    • [6] https://een.ec.europa.eu/about-enterprise-europe-network/advice-support/sustainability
    • [7] https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/
    • [8] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=oj:JOC_2019_387_R_0001
    • [9] See also Report from the Commission to the Council on the implementation of the Council Recommendation on access to social protection for workers and the self-employed, 2023: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52023DC0043
    • [10] https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-13934-2023-INIT/en/pdf
    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Monitoring of EPOCH platform activities – E-001470/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001470/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Olivier Chastel (Renew)

    Launched in 2021 in the wake of the Lisbon Declaration, the European Platform on Combatting Homelessness (EPOCH) aims chiefly to promote mutual learning on homelessness policies, strategies and action plans at national, regional and local level, with a particular focus on a housing-led approach and improving analytical data on homelessness.

    Three years on from the platform’s official launch,

    what results have been achieved thus far (number of specific projects funded, outcomes obtained in the field, activities organised) and what are the next steps planned by the Commission to ensure that the target of 2030 is met?

    Submitted: 9.4.2025

    Last updated: 22 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley Statement on the Climate Crisis and Trump’s Attack on Environmental Protections

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – On Earth Day, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) issued the following statement condemning the Trump Administration’s failure to act on the climate crisis and its continued assault on environmental protections and the future of our planet:

    “The climate crisis is not a distant threat – it’s already here. In Ventura County and across the Conejo Valley, we are seeing firsthand the consequences of inaction: more destructive wildfires, extreme weather events, and risks to critical infrastructure, including Naval Base Ventura County and the Port of Hueneme, which are vital to our national security and local economy.

    “At the very moment when bold action is needed, the Trump Administration is doing the opposite. They have laid off thousands of climate scientists at NOAA, proposed a 65% cut to the EPA’s workforce, and frozen billions in funding for electric vehicle infrastructure.

    “This is not leadership – it is climate denialism weaponized into policy, and it is leaving Americans more vulnerable by the day.

    “This is an all-out attack on the policies and people protecting our environment and public health. They’re slashing science funding, dismantling oversight, and threatening to eliminate vital agencies like the EPA, NOAA, and FEMA and crippling our country’s ability to prepare for disasters and recover after them. These are deliberate acts of sabotage against our nation, the environment, our economy, and our future.

    “They are also targeting the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service, putting treasured places like the Channel Islands National Park at risk. Over 4,000 park and forest workers have already been fired, including more than 10% of the Channel Islands National Park staff. These reckless cuts undermine wildfire prevention and threaten the long-term preservation of our public lands.

    “Worse still, these policies are being driven not by science or the public interest, but by corporate polluters and fossil fuel lobbyists who have found willing allies in this administration. This administration is doling out giveaways to polluters and special interests at the expense of future generations.

    “Not only are these policy mistakes, they are moral failures. The consequences of the Trump administration’s anti-climate actions will be felt for decades. They threaten our ecosystems, our local economy, and our ability to confront climate change before it is too late. And by walking away from climate leadership, this administration is weakening global efforts and ceding ground to other nations, risking not only our environment, but our standing in the world.

    “As a member of the House Natural Resources Committee and the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, I am working with my Democratic colleagues in Congress to fight back. Together, we are fighting to advance legislation to protect our public lands and waters, strengthen wildfire resilience, defend environmental safeguards, and invest in a clean energy future. We are committed to responsible stewardship of our planet and to holding accountable those who seek to destroy what generations of Americans have worked to preserve.

    “In California, we know what’s at stake. When lives are lost, when homes are destroyed, when wildfires rage, we are reminded that climate change is not abstract. It’s real. It’s personal. And it demands action.

    “This administration has made clear it is willing to sacrifice our planet and our children’s futures for short-term political gain. We cannot and will not stand by. The American people expect their leaders to protect them and not endanger their health, their homes, and their future. We all share the responsibility to be good stewards of our environment and to fight for the future we hope to see for our children and grandchildren.

    “Our children and grandchildren are watching, and history will judge whether we met this moment or let it pass us by.”

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress, Climate Crisis, Environment

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal Visits Nepal to Strengthen India-Nepal Energy Cooperation

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal Visits Nepal to Strengthen India-Nepal Energy Cooperation

    Inaugurates Electromechanical Works at Arun-3 Project and Witnesses MoU Signing for Cross-Border Transmission Systems

    Posted On: 22 APR 2025 9:36PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, undertook a significant visit to Nepal today, marking a new chapter in India-Nepal energy cooperation. Accompanied by Nepal’s Minister of Energy, Water Resources & Irrigation, Shri Dipak Khadka, and senior officials from both nations, the Union Minister reviewed key bilateral energy initiatives aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and sustainable power development.

    During his visit to the 900 MW Arun-3 Hydroelectric Project in Nepal’s Sankhuwasabha district, Shri Manohar Lal reviewed the progress of this landmark project being developed by SJVN Limited, a leading Indian public sector enterprise. The Arun-3 project stands as a symbol of robust India-Nepal partnership in the hydropower sector. On this occasion, Shri Manohar Lal inaugurated the commencement of electromechanical works at the powerhouse site, a critical milestone towards the project’s timely completion.

    Later in Kathmandu, in the august presence of Shri Manohar Lal and Shri Dipak Khadka, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between POWERGRID, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) of India, and the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). This MoU paves the way for the incorporation of two joint venture companies—one in India and one in Nepal—to implement high-capacity cross-border transmission infrastructure.

    The proposed projects include the development of the 400 kV Inaruwa (Nepal)–New Purnea (India) and 400 kV Dododhara (Nepal)–Bareilly (India) double-circuit transmission systems. These critical transmission links will significantly boost power exchange capabilities between the two countries, fostering energy security, grid stability, and economic growth across the region.

    The MoU was signed by Dr. Yatindra Dwivedi, Director (Personnel), POWERGRID, and Shri Kamal Acharya, Director, Grid Operation Department, NEA.

    ****

    SK

    (Release ID: 2123637) Visitor Counter : 43

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s Aviation Revolution

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Civil Aviation

    India’s Aviation Revolution

    From Regional Runways to Global Routes

    Posted On: 22 APR 2025 6:19PM by PIB Delhi

     

    “Among the fastest-growing sectors in Bharat’s economy, aviation is one of them. We are connecting our people, culture, and prosperity through this sector. With 4 billion people, a rapidly growing middle class, and the resulting increase in demand, this is a significant driving force for the sector’s development.”

     

    Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi

    Summary

     

    • Parliament passed the Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025, aligning India’s aviation leasing laws with global standards to reduce leasing costs.
    • The Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam 2024 modernized India’s aviation sector, replacing the colonial-era Aircraft Act from 1934.
    • India’s domestic air passenger traffic reached a historic milestone, surpassing 5 lakh passengers in a single day in 2024.
    • Entering its 9th year, the UDAN scheme has successfully operationalized 619 routes and 88 airports, with plans to expand to 120 additional destinations.
    • UDAN Yatri Cafés launched at Kolkata and Chennai Airports, providing passengers with affordable, quality food.
    • Rapid aviation infrastructure expansion continued, with significant progress in operationalizing Greenfield airports and upgrading existing facilities nationwide.

     

     

    Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has ushered in an era of transformative growth and innovation in India’s aviation sector. Driven by groundbreaking legislative reforms, extensive infrastructure expansion, and an unwavering commitment to connectivity, safety, and sustainability, the Ministry has achieved landmark milestones, positioning India among the world’s leading aviation markets. This article outlines the Ministry’s strategic initiatives and key accomplishments, reflecting a robust aviation ecosystem poised to support India’s ambitions of becoming a developed nation by 2047—Viksit Bharat @2047. The following sections highlight the key pillars of this transformation—legislation, infrastructure, inclusivity, sustainability, and global integration—underscoring India’s emergence as a capable aviation powerhouse.

     

    Legislative Reforms Driving Systemic Transformation

    • Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025 – This pivotal legislation, steered through Parliament by Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu and passed in April 2025, aligns India’s aircraft leasing and financing framework with international standards set by the Cape Town Convention, 2001. By addressing gaps in legal enforcement, the Bill is strategically designed to reduce aircraft leasing costs for Indian carriers, which were previously 8-10% higher than in other nations. This is expected to boost investor confidence in India’s burgeoning aviation market significantly. The intended impact of the Bill includes reduced risk premiums, lower interest rates, and lease costs for passengers and shippers. It also aims for better contract enforceability and repossession certainty, fostering the growth of domestic leasing hubs.
    • Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam 2024 – This landmark Act was passed by both houses of Parliament in 2024 and came into force on 1st January 2025. It represents a significant step in modernising India’s aviation sector by re-enacting and updating the colonial-era Aircraft Act, 1934. The Adhiniyam aims to foster indigenous manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, align regulations with international conventions such as the Chicago Convention and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and streamline regulatory processes by simplifying license issuance. It also removes redundancies and introduces provisions for appeals.

    Infrastructure Expansion: Building the Future of Indian Aviation

    • Foundation Laid for New Terminal Capacity: Significant infrastructure development is underway, including the laying of foundations for new terminals at key locations such as Varanasi, Agra, Darbhanga, and Bagdogra.
    • Operationalisation of Greenfield Airports: Since 2014, 12 Greenfield Airports have been operationalised out of 21 ‘in-principle’ approved airports. These include Durgapur, Shirdi, Kannur, Pakyong, Kalaburagi, Orvakal (Kurnool), Sindhudurg, Kushinagar, Itanagar (Hollongi), Mopa, Shivamogga, and Rajkot (Hirasar). Furthermore, development at Noida (Jewar) and Navi Mumbai International Airports is progressing rapidly, with operationalisation targeted for the first quarter of FY 2025-26. The government has set an ambitious target of developing 50 more airports in the next 5 years and connecting 120 new destinations in the next 10 years.
    • Significant Capital Expenditure in Airport Infrastructure: A substantial CAPEX of over ₹ 91,000 crore is planned for airport infrastructure development under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) during FY 2019-20 to FY 2024-25, with approximately ₹ 82,600 crores already spent by November 2024.

     

    RCS–UDAN: Democratising Air Travel and Boosting Regional Growth

    • RCS-UDAN Connecting India: The Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN), now in its 9th year since its launch in October 2016, has operationalised 619 routes and connected 88 airports across the country. This scheme embodies the government’s commitment to affordable air travel and promoting balanced regional development.
    • Expansion of Regional Connectivity: In 2024 alone, 102 new RCS routes were launched, including 20 in the North Eastern States. The scheme has facilitated affordable air travel for 1.5 crore passengers, and it aims to extend this to 4 crore more in the next decade through a revamped UDAN initiative to add 120 new destinations. The scheme also prioritises connecting remote, hilly, and aspirational districts, including the North Eastern region, through support for helipads and smaller airports.
    • Affordable Food at Airports with UDAN Yatri Café: The UDAN Yatri Café initiative, aligned with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of democratising air travel, was launched to provide affordable and quality airport food options. Cafés have been inaugurated at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and Chennai Airport, offering tea for ₹10 and samosas for ₹20. The Kolkata café has seen significant success, leading to the nationwide expansion of the initiative.

     

    Skyrocketing Passenger Traffic Reflects Sectoral Momentum

    • Exponential Growth in Domestic Passengers: In 2024, domestic air passenger traffic more than doubled to 22 crore 81 lakh, a remarkable increase from the 10 crore 38 lakh passengers recorded in the 65 years preceding 2014. Domestic air passenger traffic grew by 5.9% in the January-November period of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, crossing the milestone of 5 lakh passengers in a single day for the first time on November 17, 2024.

     

    • Strong Growth in International Traffic: International routes also experienced substantial growth, with 64.5 million passengers carried between January and November 2024, marking an 11.4% increase.
    • India Emerges as a Top Global Aviation Market: The total number of air passengers annually has exceeded 350 million, firmly establishing India as the third-largest aviation market globally. Over the past decade, domestic air passenger traffic has grown 10-12% annually.

     

    Safety, Technology, and Seamless Travel

    • State-of-the-Art DFDR & CVR Laboratory Inaugurated: A significant stride towards enhancing aviation safety was the inauguration of the advanced Digital Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder (DFDR & CVR) Laboratory at the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) in New Delhi. This ₹9 crore facility will significantly improve the effectiveness of identifying the root causes of incidents and ensuring accountability, thereby contributing to a safer aviation ecosystem. The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) supported the establishment of this crucial lab.
    • Expansion of Digi Yatra for Seamless Travel: Digi Yatra services to 24 airports have significantly enhanced passenger convenience and security. This initiative provides a seamless, contactless travel experience for passengers. Over 80 lakh users have downloaded the app, and more than 4 crore journeys have been completed using the Digi Yatra facility.
    • Guidelines Launched for Seaplane Operations: The Guidelines for Seaplane Operations in India were launched on 22nd August 2024 to enhance regional connectivity further. These guidelines prioritise safety and security and aim to facilitate the commencement of seaplane operations across the country. UDAN Round 5.5 includes invitations for bids for seaplane operations from over 50 water bodies.

     

    Sustainability and Capacity Building: Preparing for Tomorrow

    • Driving Green Energy Adoption at Airports: The Ministry actively promotes sustainable aviation, with around 80 airports now operating on 100% green energy. The aspiration is to transition over 100 airports to renewable energy sources. Bengaluru Airport has achieved the highest Carbon Accreditation Level 5 by Airports Council International (ACI), while Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad airports have achieved Level 4+ accreditation, becoming carbon neutral. Chennai Airport also operates entirely on green energy and houses a 1.5 MW solar power plant.
    • Addressing the Growing Demand for Pilots: Recognizing the increasing need for trained pilots, estimated at 30,000 to 34,000 in the next 10-15 years, the Ministry is actively working on expanding the number of Flight Training Organizations (FTOs) and the annual issuance of commercial pilot licenses.
    • Aviation Career Guidance for Students: To nurture future talent, Civil Aviation Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu launched a ‘Career Guidance Programme in Aviation’ for school students at the Indian Aviation Academy. The programme aims to inspire and educate students about diverse career opportunities within the sector. The Minister highlighted the significant demand for pilots and the government’s commitment to developing domestic talent.

     

    Additional Milestones in Aviation Growth

     

    • Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO): A uniform 5% Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) rate has been introduced for aircraft parts to promote India as a competitive global MRO hub.
    • Gender Inclusion: India boasts 13–18% of women pilots, which ranks among the highest globally. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) targets 25% representation of women in all aviation roles by 2025.
    • International Recognition: The 2nd Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation was successfully hosted in New Delhi, culminating in the Delhi Declaration.
    • Air Cargo Infrastructure: Cargo handling capacity reached 8 million MT in FY24, growing at 10 %+ annually with a new focus on warehousing for perishables and streamlined customs protocols.

    Charting the Path to Viksit Bharat @2047

    The Ministry of Civil Aviation remains resolutely committed to positioning India as a global aviation leader, driving transformative change through visionary policies, world-class infrastructure, and inclusive, sustainable growth. As India continues to break records in passenger traffic, expand regional connectivity, and modernise aviation frameworks, the nation is firmly set on an upward trajectory toward becoming a vibrant global aviation hub. These concerted efforts enhance travel experiences for millions and bolster economic prosperity, strengthen national integration, and empower India to confidently soar towards its vision of becoming a developed nation—Viksit Bharat @2047.

    References

    Click here to see PDF.

    *****

    Santosh Kumar / Sheetal Angral/ Vatsla Srivastava

    (Release ID: 2123537)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –