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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transforming India’s Agricultural and Dairy Sectors

    Source: Government of India

    Transforming India’s Agricultural and Dairy Sectors

    Recent Policy Decisions and Budgetary Provisions

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 6:49PM by PIB Delhi

    Summary

    • The Union Cabinet approved the Revised National Program for Dairy Development (NPDD) with an additional budget of ₹1,000 crore.
    • The Union Cabinet has also approved the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) to boost the livestock sector, with an additional outlay of ₹1,000 crore.
    • The Union Budget 2025-26 has emphasized agriculture as the foremost engine of India’s development.
    • On January 1, 2025, the Union Cabinet approved continuation of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme till 2025-26.
    • On January 1, 2025, the Union Cabinet approved the extension of One-time Special Package on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) for the period from 01.01.2025 till further orders.
    • The Union Cabinet, on November 25, 2024, approved the launching of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) with a total outlay of Rs.2481 crore.
    • On October 3, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the rationalization of all Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) operating under Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s into two-umbrella Schemes viz. Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY), and Krishonnati Yojana (KY).
    • On October 3, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds with a financial outlay of Rs 10,103 crore.

     

    Introduction

    On March 19, 2025, the Union Cabinet took two key decisions to further the development of agriculture, dairying and animal husbandry in India. Agriculture, animal husbandry, and dairying are the cornerstone of India’s economy. These sectors play a crucial role in ensuring rural employment and economic stability.

    The Union Cabinet approved the Revised National Program for Dairy Development (NPDD), a Central Sector Scheme, with an additional budget of ₹1,000 crore, bringing the total to ₹2,790 crore for the 15th Finance Commission period (2021-22 to 2025-26).

    Key Objectives of the Revised NPDD:

    • Improved milk procurement, processing capacity, and quality control.
    • Enhanced market access for farmers and better pricing through value addition.
    • Strengthening of the dairy supply chain to increase rural income and development.

    Components of the Revised NPDD:

    1. Component A: Focuses on improving dairy infrastructure.
    2. Component B: Dairying through Cooperatives (DTC) in partnership with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

    Expected Outcomes of Revised NPDD:

    • Establishment of 10,000 new Dairy Cooperative Societies.
    • Additional 3.2 lakh employment opportunities, 70% benefiting women.

    The Union Cabinet has also approved the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) to boost the livestock sector, with an additional outlay of ₹1,000 crore, bringing the total budget to ₹3,400 crore for the 15th Finance Commission period (2021-22 to 2025-26).

    Key Additions to the Revised RGM:

    1. Heifer Rearing Centres: One-time assistance of 35% of capital cost for setting up 30 housing facilities for 15,000 heifers.
    2. Support for High Genetic Merit (HGM) Heifers: 3% interest subvention on loans taken by farmers to purchase HGM IVF heifers from milk unions/financial institutions.

    Ongoing Activities under RGM:

    • Strengthening of semen stations and Artificial Insemination (AI) network.
    • Bull production and breed improvement using sex-sorted semen.
    • Skill development and farmer awareness programs.
    • Establishment of Centres of Excellence and strengthening of Central Cattle Breeding Farms.

    Expected Outcomes of Revised RGM:

    • Increased incomes for 8.5 crore farmers engaged in dairying.
    • Scientific conservation of indigenous bovine breeds.

    India is the world’s largest producer of milk and the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables. With a rising global demand for organic produce, value-added dairy products, and sustainable farming practices, the government has placed renewed emphasis on enhancing productivity, infrastructure, and market access for farmers. In the past six months, the Union Government has introduced key policy decisions aimed at modernizing these sectors. Through targeted investments, regulatory support, and infrastructure development, the government seeks to improve farmer incomes, ensure disease control in livestock, and bolster cooperative movements to benefit small and marginal farmers. A crucial component of this vision is the Union Budget 2024-25, which has made substantial allocations to agriculture, animal health, and rural development.

    Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying Provisions in Union Budget 2024-25

    The Union Budget 2025-26 has emphasized agriculture as the foremost engine of India’s development, focusing on improving productivity, farmer incomes, rural infrastructure, and self-sufficiency in key commodities. The provisions also extend to animal husbandry, dairying, and fisheries, ensuring holistic growth in the primary sector.

    1. Agriculture Sector Provisions

    1.1 Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

    • A new scheme targeting 100 low-productivity districts.
    • Focus on enhancing agricultural productivity, crop diversification, sustainable practices, irrigation, and post-harvest storage.
    • Likely to benefit 1.7 crore farmers.

    1.2 Rural Prosperity and Resilience Programme

    • A multi-sectoral initiative to address underemployment in agriculture.
    • Focus on skilling, investment, and technology-driven transformation.
    • Phase-1 to cover 100 agricultural districts.

    1.3 Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses

    • A six-year mission with a focus on Tur, Urad, and Masoor.
    • Development of climate-resilient seeds and protein enhancement.
    • Assurance of remunerative prices through procurement by NAFED and NCCF for four years.

    1.4 Comprehensive Programme for Vegetables and Fruits

    • Promotion of vegetable and fruit production with efficient supply chains.
    • Focus on value addition, processing, and ensuring better market prices.
    • Implementation in partnership with states and farmer producer organizations.

    1.5 National Mission on High Yielding Seeds

    • Strengthening research for high-yield, pest-resistant, and climate-resilient seeds.
    • Commercial availability of over 100 seed varieties released since July 2024.

    1.6 Cotton Productivity Mission

    • A five-year mission to improve cotton yield and sustainability.
    • Promotion of extra-long staple cotton to benefit cotton-growing farmers.
    • Alignment with the 5F vision for textile sector growth.

    1.7 Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Loan Limit Enhancement

    • The loan limit under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme raised from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh.
    • Expected to benefit 7.7 crore farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers.

    1.8 Urea Plant in Assam

    • A new urea plant with an annual capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tons at Namrup, Assam.
    • Expected to enhance self-sufficiency in urea production.

    2. Animal Husbandry and Dairying

    2.1 Makhana Board in Bihar

    • Establishment of a dedicated board to support makhana production, processing, and marketing.
    • Organization of makhana farmers into Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).

    2.2 Fisheries Development Framework

    • Special focus on Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands.
    • Sustainable harnessing of fisheries from the Exclusive Economic Zone and High Seas.
    • Expected to boost marine sector potential and increase exports.

    3. Credit and Financial Inclusion

    3.1 Grameen Credit Score

    • Public Sector Banks to develop a framework for SHG members and rural credit needs.

    3.2 Expansion of Credit for Micro Enterprises

    • Introduction of customized credit cards with a ₹5 lakh limit for micro-enterprises registered on the Udyam portal.
    • 10 lakh cards to be issued in the first year.

    4. Research and Infrastructure Development

    4.1 Gene Bank for Crops Germplasm

    • A second gene bank with 10 lakh germplasm lines for future food security.

    4.2 Research and Development in Agriculture

    • Enhanced support for private-sector-driven R&D.

    The Union Budget 2025-26 provisions for agriculture, animal husbandry, and dairying reflect the government’s commitment to boosting agricultural productivity, ensuring financial stability for farmers, and strengthening allied sectors.

    Overview of Cabinet Decisions Since October 2024

    1. Continuation of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS)

    On January 1, 2025, the Union Cabinet approved continuation of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme till 2025-26 with an overall outlay of Rs.69,515.71 crore from 2021-22 to 2025-26. The decision will help in risk coverage of crops from non-preventable natural calamities for farmers across the country.

    In addition to the same, for large scale technology infusion in implementation of the scheme leading to increasing transparency and claim calculation and settlement, the Union Cabinet has also approved creation of Fund for Innovation and Technology (FIAT) with a corpus of Rs.824.77 crore.

    1. Extension of One-time Special Package on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP)

    On January 1, 2025, the Union Cabinet approved the proposal of the Department of Fertilizers for extension of One-time Special Package on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) beyond the NBS subsidy @ Rs 3,500 per MT for the period from 01.01.2025 till further orders to ensure sustainable availability of DAP at affordable prices to the farmers. The tentative budgetary requirement for above would be approximately up to Rs. 3,850 crore.

    1. Increase in Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Copra for 2025 season

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, on December 20, 2024, has given its approval for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for copra for 2025 season. The government has increased MSP for milling copra and ball copra from Rs. 5250 per quintal and Rs. 5500 per quintal for the marketing season 2014 to Rs. 11582 per quintal and Rs. 12100 per quintal for the marketing season 2025, registering a growth of 121% and 120%, respectively. A higher MSP will not only ensure better remunerative returns to the coconut growers but also incentivize farmers to expand copra production to meet the growing demand for coconut products both domestically and internationally.

    1. Launch of National Mission on Natural Farming

    The Union Cabinet, on November 25, 2024, approved the launching of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. The scheme has a total outlay of Rs.2481 crore (Government of India share – Rs.1584 crore; State share – Rs.897 crore) till the 15th Finance Commission (2025-26).

    • National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) promotes NF to ensure safe, nutritious food and reduce farmers’ dependency on external inputs. It aims to enhance soil health, biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture.
    • Natural Farming (NF) is a chemical-free farming method based on traditional knowledge, local agro-ecological principles, and diversified cropping systems.
    • NF reduces input costs, soil degradation, and health risks from fertilizers and pesticides, ensuring nutritious food and climate resilience.
    1. Launch of PM Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) and Krishonnati Yojana (KY)

    On October 3, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the proposal of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) for rationalization of all Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) operating under Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s into two-umbrella Schemes viz. Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY), and Krishonnati Yojana (KY).  

    PM-RKVY will promote sustainable agriculture, while KY will address food security & agricultural self-sufficiency. The PM-RKVY and KY are being implemented with total proposed expenditure of Rs.1,01,321.61 crore. These Schemes are implemented through the State Governments. Out of the total proposed expenditure of Rs.1,01,321.61 crore the projected expenditure towards central share of DA&FW is Rs.69,088.98 crore and states share is Rs.32,232.63 crore. This includes Rs.57,074.72 crore for RKVY and Rs.44,246.89 crore for KY.

    1. Approval of National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds

    On October 3, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds), a landmark initiative aimed at boosting domestic oilseed production and achieving self-reliance in edible oils. The Mission will be implemented over a seven-year period, from 2024-25 to 2030-31, with a financial outlay of Rs 10,103 crore.

    The mission aims to increase primary oilseed production from 39 million tonnes (2022-23) to 69.7 million tonnes by 2030-31. Together with NMEO-OP (Oil Palm), the Mission targets to increase domestic edible oil production to 25.45 million tonnes by 2030-31 meeting around 72% of our projected domestic requirement.

    Welfare Schemes for Agriculture, Dairying and Animal Husbandry by the Indian Government

    • Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): Launch of PM-KISAN in 2019 an income support scheme providing Rs. 6000 per year in 3 equal instalments. So far, more than Rs. 3.46 lakh crore has been disbursed to over 11 crore farmers through 18 instalments. On February 24, 2025, the government released the 19th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme. Over 9.8 crore farmers including 2.41 crore female farmers across the country will be benefitted through the 19th instalment release, receiving direct financial assistance exceeding ₹22,000 crore through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) without involvement of any middlemen.
    • Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maandhan Yojana: PMKMY is a central sector scheme, is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme for the entry age group of 18 to 40 years with a provision of Rs. 3000/- monthly pension on attaining the age of 60 years, subject to exclusion criteria. Since the inception of the scheme, over 24.67 lacs small and marginal farmers have joined the PMKMY scheme.
    • Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: PMFBY was launched in 2016 addressing problems of high premium rates for farmers and reduction in sum insured due to capping. In past 8 Years of implementation. In past 8 Years of PMFBY implementation, 63.11 crore farmer applications have been enrolled and over 18.52 crore (Provisional) farmer applicants have received claims of over Rs. 1,65,149 crore. During this period nearly Rs. 32,482 crore were paid by farmers as their share of premium against which claims over Rs. 1,65,149 crore (Provisional) have been paid to them. Thus, for every Rs. 100 of premium paid by farmers, they have received about Rs. 508 as claims.

    ​​​​​​​

    • National Livestock Mission (NLM): The focus of the scheme is towards employment generation, entrepreneurship development; increase in per animal productivity and thus targeting increased production of meat, goat milk, egg and wool. An outlay of Rs. 324 crores have been allocated during the year 2024-25 for this mission.
    • Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): The scheme envisaged for incentivizing investments by individual entrepreneurs, private companies, MSME, Farmers Producers Organizations (FPOs), and Section 8 companies to establish dairy processing and value addition infrastructure, meat processing and value addition infrastructure, animal feed plant, breed improvement technology and breed multiplications farms, veterinary drugs and vaccine infrastructure and waste to wealth management. Further, the Dairy Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF) has been subsumed in the AHIDF and revised outlay is now Rs. 29610 crore.
    • National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP): Launched in 2019, the program is the largest of its kind globally, targeting the eradication of FMD and Brucellosis by 2030. Over 99.71 crore vaccinations against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in cattle and buffaloes, benefitting 7.18 crore farmers have been made so far.

    Conclusion

    The government’s recent decisions and budgetary provisions reflect a strong push towards modernization, infrastructure development, and sustainability in agriculture, animal husbandry, and dairying. The focus on disease control, cooperative strengthening, and technological innovation will contribute to improving productivity and farmers’ incomes, ensuring the long-term growth of these vital sectors.

    References

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2112791

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2112788

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2089249

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2089258

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2086629

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2077094

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2061649

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2061646

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2098404

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2098401

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1897084

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1985479

    https://pib.gov.in/FactsheetDetails.aspx?Id=149098

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2105745

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2086052

    https://www.instagram.com/airnewsalerts/p/DAqvpYOoVgI/

    https://x.com/pmkisanofficial/status/1891741181614133264/photo/1

    www.linkedin.com/posts/agrigoi_agrigoi-naturalfarming-nmnf-activity-7288065904469229568-7OdL

    https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2025/feb/doc202521492701.pdf

    Kindly find the pdf file 

    ****

    Santosh Kumar | Ritu Kataria | Rishita Aggarwal

    (Release ID: 2113351) Visitor Counter : 40

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: International Day of Forests 2025

    Source: Government of India

    International Day of Forests 2025

    India’s Integrated Vision for Forests, Food, and Sustainability

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 6:35PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    Forests are the lifelines of our planet, providing oxygen, food, medicine, and livelihoods to millions. Beyond their ecological significance, forests are pillars of global food security, offering essential resources such as fruits, seeds, roots, and wild meat, which support indigenous and rural communities. Every year on March 21, the world celebrates the International Day of Forests to celebrate all types of forests, recognize the importance of trees and forests, and take action to protect them.

    In year 2012, the United Nations declared March 21 as the International Day of Forests (IDF) to celebrate and raise awareness about the vital role of forests. Every year a new theme is chosen by the Collaborative Partnership on Forests. The theme for this year is “Forests and Food,” which emphasizes the deep connection between forests and global food security.

    In India forests are deeply intertwined with culture, economy, and biodiversity, and their protection is not just an environmental necessity but a fundamental responsibility. In this direction, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and related ministries of Government of India have launched various schemes that link forests to food security, nutrition, and livelihoods.

    National Agroforestry Policy

    Agroforestry is a sustainable land-use system that integrates trees and crops to enhance agricultural productivity, improve soil fertility, and provide an additional income source for farmers. Recognizing its potential, the Government of India introduced the National Agroforestry Policy in 2014 to promote tree plantation in farmland.

    Objectives of the Scheme

    The National Agroforestry Scheme aims to encourage farmers to adopt agroforestry for climate resilience, environmental conservation, and economic benefits.

    Implementation Strategy

    The scheme emphasizes the production and distribution of Quality Planting Material (QPM) through nurseries and tissue culture units. The ICAR-Central Agroforestry Research Institute (CAFRI) is the nodal agency responsible for providing technical support, certification, and training. Various institutions such as ICFRE, CSIR, ICRAF, and state agricultural universities collaborate to implement the program effectively.

    Market and Economic Support

    To make agroforestry profitable, the scheme supports farmers through price guarantees and buy-back options for farm-grown trees. It also encourages private sector participation in the marketing and processing of agroforestry products. Additionally, agroforestry integrates well with India’s strategy to promote millets, as millets thrive in tree-based farming systems.

    Funding and Support Interventions

    The government provides financial assistance for the establishment of nurseries and research projects.

    Green India Mission

    The Green India Mission (GIM) also known as National Mission for a Green India, is a key part of India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). It is one of the eight missions under NAPCC. The mission aims to protect, restore, and enhance India’s forest cover while tackling climate change. GIM focuses on improving biodiversity, water resources, and ecosystems like mangroves and wetlands, all while helping absorb carbon. The activities under GIM were started in the FY 2015-16.

    Mission Goals:

    • Expand forest/tree cover by 5 million hectares (mha) and improve the quality of another 5 mha of forest and non-forest land.
    • Boost ecosystem services like carbon storage, water management, and biodiversity.
    • Improve livelihoods for 3 million households by increasing income from forest-based activities.

    Sub-Missions:

    GIM has five sub-missions, each focused on a different aspect of greening:

    1. Enhancing Forest Cover – Improving Forest quality and ecosystem services.
    2. Ecosystem Restoration – Reforesting and increasing forest cover.
    3. Urban Greening – Adding more trees in cities and nearby areas.
    4. Agro-Forestry & Social Forestry – Boosting biomass and creating carbon sinks.
    5. Wetland Restoration – Reviving critical wetlands.

    Ecosystem Services Improvement Project (ESIP)

    The Green India Mission is working on the Ecosystem Services Improvement Project (ESIP), a World Bank-backed initiative in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh.

     

    Funding and Expenditure

     

    As of July 2024, Rs. 909.82 crores have been allocated to 17 states and one Union Territory for plantation and eco-restoration over 155,130 hectares. In Maharashtra’s Palghar district, 464.20 hectares in Dahanu Division have been covered under GIM for plantation and eco-restoration.

     

    Forest Fire Prevention & Management Scheme

    The Forest Fire Prevention & Management is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme that supports states and Union Territories in preventing and controlling forest fires. The Ministry provides financial assistance to help implement various fire prevention and management measures.

    India has a forest fire detection system managed by the Forest Survey of India, Dehradun. It uses remote sensing technology to detect and share information about forest fires in near real-time. This system plays a crucial role in the early detection and effective management of forest fires across the country. The Ministry has also constituted a Crisis Management Group under the chairmanship of Secretary (EF&CC) to deal with crises arising as a result of forest fires.

    Source: India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023

    Objectives of the scheme

     

    The scheme aims to reduce forest fire incidents and restore productivity in affected areas. It emphasizes the involvement of local communities in forest protection and contributes to maintaining environmental stability. Developing a fire danger rating system and forecasting methods is also a key objective. The scheme encourages the use of modern technology, such as Remote Sensing, GPS, and GIS, to enhance fire prevention efforts. Additionally, it seeks to improve knowledge about the impact and behaviour of forest fires.

    Implementation

     

    Following the recommendations of the Parliamentary Committee and NGT’s directions, the Ministry has developed the National Action Plan on Forest Fire. It is based on a study with the World Bank and consultations with key stakeholders like State Forest Departments and the National Disaster Management Authority. In addition to forest fire detection, the Forest Survey of India (FSI), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has developed a satellite-based Forest Fire Monitoring and Alert System. This system helps in the timely detection and monitoring of forest fires. Fire alerts are sent via SMS and email to registered users, ensuring quick response and better fire management.

    Van Dhan Yojana

    Launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TRIFED, the Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana (PMVDY) aims to improve the livelihood of tribal communities by enhancing the value of forest produce. The scheme helps tribal gatherers become entrepreneurs through skill training, infrastructure support, and market linkages.

    Formation of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs)

    Under this initiative, tribal communities form Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs), each consisting of 300 members from 15 Self-Help Groups (SHGs). These Kendras serve as hubs for processing, value addition, and marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFPs).

    Financial Support and Implementation

    The scheme is a centrally funded, with ₹15 lakh allocated per Kendra. Tribal members contribute ₹1,000 each to ensure ownership. The government also supports branding, packaging, and global market access for tribal products.

    Two-Stage Implementation

    1. Stage I: Establishment of 6,000 Kendras across tribal districts with basic facilities.
    2. Stage II: Scaling up successful Kendras with better infrastructure, such as storage and processing units.

    Impact and Benefits

    PMVDY generates sustainable livelihoods, promotes forest conservation, discourages tribal migration, and strengthens the tribal economy, making it a key initiative for India’s tribal development.

    Conclusion

    India’s commitment to forest conservation and sustainable development is evident through various initiatives like the National Agroforestry Policy, Green India Mission, Forest Fire Prevention & Management Scheme, and Van Dhan Yojana. These programs not only help restore and protect forest ecosystems but also enhance livelihoods, promote climate resilience, and strengthen food security. On International Day of Forests 2025, it is crucial to reaffirm our dedication to preserving forests as vital resources for future generations. By integrating conservation efforts with community participation and sustainable policies, India continues to pave the way for a greener, healthier, and more prosperous future.

    References:

    International Day of Forests 2025

    *****

    Santosh Kumar/ Sheetal Angral/ Priya Nagar

    (Release ID: 2113339) Visitor Counter : 95

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: InvestHK showcases Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem by cohosting UK tech trade delegation (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    InvestHK showcases Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem by cohosting UK tech trade delegation       
         The UK delegation was spearheaded by Grow London Global, an initiative under London & Partners, the official growth agency for London, and funded by the UK Government. The cohort comprised representatives from InvestHK London Office, London & Partners, and 15 of the UK’s most innovative and rapidly growing tech companies. Participants engaged with key stakeholders in the region, industry experts, and potential clients. The mission served as a platform to showcase the UK’s cutting-edge technology and to learn from the dynamic tech ecosystems of Hong Kong.

         InvestHK facilitated this tech trade mission, which is aimed at identifying new avenues for economic co-operation and reaffirming its commitment to ongoing collaboration. The visit strengthened the connections between Hong Kong and the UK’s start-ups, enterprises, and industry leaders, paving the way for future economic and investment growth.
          
         The Head of Business and Talent Attraction/Investment Promotion at InvestHK London Office, Ms Daisy Ip, said, “We are delighted to support the Grow London Global programme and this tech trade delegation to Hong Kong. Through the productive dialogues and exchanges during the visit, we hope to further strengthen the ties between the UK and Hong Kong and create new pathways for increased investment from the UK.”
          
         The Trade Manager, Fintech & Enterprise, London & Partners, Ms Jasmine Baker, added, “This Grow London Global tech trade mission has been a success, and mutually beneficial for our delegation and everyone we have met with. We have achieved our goals in fostering collaboration with the Hong Kong business ecosystem and hope to generate more opportunities and partnerships for London’s most exciting companies.”
          
         Joining the Trade Mission to China 2025, the Founder and CEO of Assureful, Mr Rohit Nair, added, “It has been incredible to be a part of this Grow London Global tech trade mission. We have been introduced to so many members of Hong Kong’s tech ecosystem. We will be going home with an enlarged sense of what is possible in this market and will be able to make choices about growth with more confidence.”
    Issued at HKT 19:20

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Ministry of Ayush Takes Proactive Steps to Safeguard Public Health Regarding Heatwave”

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 4:21PM by PIB Delhi

    In the wake of rising temperatures and India Meteorological Department (IMD) advisories issued to various regions, the Ministry of Ayush has initiated a nationwide sensitisation drive through its network of institutions spread across the country. The efforts aim to spread awareness about heatwave preventive measures.

    Institutes and organisations under the Ministry of Ayush are conducting a range of activities to educate citizens about heatwave prevention, including awareness sessions, distribution of IEC materials etc. The drive emphasises tips and traditional wellness practices backed up by scientific evidence to help citizens stay safe during extreme heatwave conditions.

    Dr. MM Rao, CARI, Bhubaneswar

    The Jamnagar-based Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) has taken proactive steps to shield the local population from the damaging effects of warming temperatures. As part of its ongoing commitment to public health, ITRA conducted a vital activity on March 20, 2025, to educate and protect residents—particularly those who visit its Outpatient Department (OPD) from the risks associated with heat epidemics.

    Educational pamphlets were dispersed throughout the ITRA Hospital and the surrounding area during the campaign. These bilingual booklets provide important tips and practical guidance on preventing heat-related illnesses, such as drinking lots of water, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and recognizing the early warning signs of heat stress. The program’s objective is to provide people with the knowledge they require.

    Dr. Jayprakash Ram delivered an inspiring and informative lecture on Heatwave Awareness: Knowledge, Prevention, and Treatment. Hosted at RARI Ahmedabad, this vibrant event brought together OPD patients, their families, and the institution’s dedicated staff for a collective awakening to tackle the perils of loo (heatwave) with confidence and care.

    Attendees engaged in lively discussions during the event, and many went home with pamphlets and a renewed determination to stay cool.

    Dr. Preeti from the Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy, Jhajjar, guided patients and staff on Heatwave Awareness through the healing powers of Yoga & Naturopathy.

    Dr. Jaiprakash Ram, RARI, Ahmedabad

    Addendum from Public Health Advisory from Ayush Vertical under Director General of Health Services regarding prevention of Heatwave

    • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated. You can also include buttermilk, coconut water, and fruit juices to maintain fluid levels and stay cool.
    • Use Cooling Beverages: Incorporate naturally cooling drinks into your routine, such as coconut water, lemon juice, or fruit-based drinks. These help to lower body temperature and keep you refreshed.
    • Avoid Direct Sunlight: When going outside, use an umbrella or wear a wide-brimmed hat to minimize sun exposure. This helps prevent heatstroke and sunburn.
    • Eat Light Meals: Before leaving the house, opt for light, easy-to-digest meals. Avoid heavy or oily foods, as they can increase body heat.
    • Wear Appropriate Clothing: Dress in full-sleeved, loose-fitting clothes made from fabrics like cotton. This provides better protection against direct sunlight and helps to keep you cool.
    • Use Cooling Water Infusions: Prepare your drinking water with cooling ingredients like khus (vetiver), sariva (Indian sarsaparilla), jeera (cumin), and dhanyaka (coriander seeds). This can help reduce body heat.
    • Enjoy Sattu-based Refreshments: Consume sattu (a coarse powder made from roasted barley or Bengal gram) mixed with jaggery or rock salt for a cooling and refreshing treat.
    • Eat Cooling Snacks: Include foods like falsa (Indian blackberry), munakka (raisins), laja (parched paddy), and petha (candied ash gourd) in your diet for their cooling properties.
    • Apply Cooling Pastes: Use pastes made from aromatic medicinal plants like sandalwood and vetiver on your skin to help cool down during hot weather.
    • Include Hydrating Fruits and Vegetables: Consume fruits and vegetables that contain high water content, such as grapes, cucumber, watermelon, water chestnut, muskmelon, mango, and sugarcane juice. Bael sharbat is also an excellent option to beat the heat.
    • Drink Milk with Sugar: A simple way to stay hydrated and maintain energy is by drinking milk with added sugar.
    • Take a Midday Nap: Resting during the hottest part of the day can help reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and keep your energy levels up. A short nap can be refreshing and beneficial in hot weather

    DONT’s

    • Avoid going outside during the hottest hours of the day, typically between 12:00 noon and 3:00 pm, when the sun is at its strongest.
    • If you must be outside in the afternoon, avoid strenuous activities to prevent overheating and dehydration.
    • Do not go outside barefoot to avoid burning your feet on hot surfaces.
    • Avoid cooking during the hottest parts of the day. If you must cook, ensure proper ventilation by opening doors and windows to let in fresh air.
    • Reduce or avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks with high sugar content. These can lead to increased fluid loss or cause stomach cramps.
    • Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a short time. The temperature inside can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.

    For more details on Addendum Public Health Advisory from Ayush Vertical under Director General of Health Services regarding : Extreme Heat/Heatwave, visit https://ayush.gov.in/resources/pdf/aechives/PublicHealthAdvisory.pdf

    ****

    MV/AKS

     

     

    (Release ID: 2113255) Visitor Counter : 11

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: DAE INITIATIVES REGARDING CANCER TREATMENT

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 4:19PM by PIB Delhi

    DAE has developed and launched several radio-pharma products. BARC has been continuously working towards ensuring uninterrupted supply of radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals in the country through its research reactors. BARC is constantly carrying out research to develop new radiopharmaceuticals for cancer care and achieved indigenization of clinically established radiopharmaceuticals and allied products at an affordable cost. A list of radio pharmaceuticals indigenously developed are given below. These radio pharma products are available on demand through Board of Radiation and Isotope Technology (BRIT).

    List of indigenously developed radio-pharmaceuticals

    Sr.

    no.

    Product description

    Use/ Applications

    1.

    90Y-labeled hydroxyapatite (HA)

    Radiation synovectomy

    2.

    177Lu-labeled hydroxyapatite (HA)

    Radiation synovectomy

    3.

    177Lu-DOTA TATE

    Therapy of neuro endocrine tumors

    4.

    177Lu-DOTA-TRASTUZUMAB

    Breast cancer expressing HER-2 receptors

    5.

    Clinical grade NCA Radio chemical copper-64 chloride (64CuCl2)

    PET imaging of cancer/ radiochemical for 64Cu-RPh preparation

    6.

    177Lu-DOTMP

    Bone pain palliation

    7.

    90Y-GLASSMICROSPHERES

    Liver cancer therapy

    8.

    188ReN-DEDC/Lipiodol (improved method)

    Liver cancer therapy

    9.

    177Lu-CHX-A”-DTPA-Rituximab

    Therapy        of        non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

    10.

    Copper-64chloride(64CuCl2)

    PET imaging of cancer

    11.

    99mTc-HYNIC-[cycle(RGDfk)]2

    Imaging of malignant tumor

    12.

    188ReN-DEDC/Lipiodol

    Liver cancer therapy

    13.

    99mTc-HYNIC-TATE

    Imaging neuro endocrine tumors

    14.

    188Re-HEDP

    Bone pain palliation

    15.

    131I-lipiodol

    Liver cancer therapy

    16.

    68Ga-PSMA-11

    Imaging of prostate cancer

    17.

    99mTc-UBI(29-41)

    Infection imaging

    18.

    68Ga-DOTATATE

    Imaging neuro endocrine tumors

    The National Cancer Grid was established with support from the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). The DAE provided Rs 72 Crores for all the activities of NCG from 2013-2023. Subsequently, to expand the scope of several projects under the NCG, DAE has further granted Rs 177.05 Crores for next 5 years.

    NCG has worked towards uniform standards of cancer care, developing trained workforce in oncology and supporting high-quality multi-centric cancer research to develop cost-effective solutions for prevention and treatment of cancer. Through its several initiatives, NCG is striving for delivery of uniform cancer care to all irrespective

    of their geographical location or socioeconomic status. There are 362-member organizations in the NCG. In the last two years a total of 70 cancer centres have been added to the NCG. Between these centres, a total of 800,000 new cancer cases are treated annually. Initiative of the NCG has potential of massive and far-reaching impact

    The key initiatives undertaken by NCG to improve cancer diagnosis, treatment protocols and research in India

    1. Resource stratified guidelines for management of cancers based on the cost- effectiveness and infrastructure availability.
    2. The guidelines are linked with AB-PMJAY to ensure quality of care delivery to the AB-PMJAY beneficiaries.
    3. Capacity building to conduct health technology assessment to ensure that oncology packages and treatments promote value-based care.
    4. Group negotiation for all the high-value anticancer drugs which resulted in a median of 82% price reduction leading to improvement in access and affordability
    5. Standardization of diagnosis by NCG-surgical pathology quality assurance program which helps ensure correct diagnosis at all the participating centres.
    6. Quality improvement programs which train the centre in improving the quality of all the cancer care pathways.
    7. Training of health-care professionals including nurses, pathologists and technicians from across the country to deliver high quality cancer care.
    8. Virtual tumour boards to provide inputs on diagnosis and treatment from a multidisciplinary team of cancer experts for all the complex cancer cases at any ofthe cancer centers at any location.
    9. Development of interoperable oncology specific electronic medical record solution
    10. Establishment of Koita Centre of digital oncology to leverage digital technologies to improve cancer care from prevention to treatment. This is in complete alignment with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.
    11. Integrated data collection & aggregation – a “National Cancer Database to guide all the cancer policies and national cancer control plan. Initial databases established for five common cancers.
    12. Partnering with digital tech companies to deliver cancer care near to patients’ home
    1. Initiation of national tumor tissue biobank across NCG to understand the cancer causation, identification and development of new anti cancer treatment and preventive technologies.
    2. Optimization of treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia to increase cure rates – the largest trial done till date anywhere in the world
    3. Repurposing of drugs (aspirin, metformin and curcumin) to provide cost-effective treatment options for common cancers
    4. Training the early career oncologists in conducting high-quality cancer research. Till date more than 400 oncologists have been trained
    5. Setting a priority agenda for cancer research and collaborating with ICMR (with joint matched funding) to fund the country-relevant research questions. These include the following
      • Reduce burden of patients presenting with advanced disease
      • Improve access, affordability and outcomes in cancer care via solution-oriented research
      • Country-level health economic assessment of cancer interventions and technologies
      • Quality improvement and implementation research
      • Leverage technology to improve cancer control supported by robust scientific evidence

    Homi  Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Punjab is a unit of Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, working under the aegis of Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India. It has 2 centres, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital, Sangrur was set up in 2015 and Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital &Research Centre, New Chandigarh has been setup in 50 acres of land and is functional since August, 2022. HBCH&RC, New Chandigarh is a 300 bedded facility and HBCH, Sangrur is 150 bedded facility.

    Hospital is providing round the clock Emergency, IPD, ICU, laboratory, Blood bank and pharmacy services. The hospital is fully functional and is providing all types of cancer care services including Medical Oncology (including chemotherapy in daycare), Surgical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Pediatric Oncology, Preventive oncology, Palliative Oncology, Oncopathology,

    Microbiology, Imaging services, Interventional Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, Blood bank and Bone marrow transplant services. The laboratories and diagnostic departments are equipped with high end machineries and equipments including 3 Tesla MRI, CT scan, DEXA scanner, Mammography machine, Fluoroscopy machine, PET scanner, SPECT etc. which helps in early diagnosis of cancer. Advanced machines like LINAC are available to extend treatment with precision targeting only the cancerous area, ensuring the neighbouring normal soft tissue is not affected or damaged; through procedures like 3D CRT, IMRT, IGRT, IGBT, Stereotactic Body Radio therapy (SBRT) and Stereotactic Radio surgery (SRS). The Modular OTs with advanced machinery ensures delivery of world class treatment to its patients including HIPEC and PIPAC surgeries etc.

    The hospital has registered more than 18,000 new cancer patients in the year 2024. Out of these, approx. 13,000 patients were from Punjab while others hailed from the adjoining states of Haryana, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and the union territories of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Chandigarh. In year 2024, OPD footfall was approx. 1.5 lakhs, approx. 6000 surgeries were done, more than 40,000 chemotherapies were administered, approximately 52,000 radiological investigations were done, 2300 patients were attended in Nuclear medicine and more than 5 lakhs investigations were carried out.

    Cancer prevention and early diagnosis is an important mandate of public health department of the hospital for which multiple public health programs are being run like Early Detection Program (EDP), ISHA project (Indian Study of Healthy Aging) for detecting cancer in women where more than 1.5 lakh women have been screened cancer; population-based cancer registries (PBCR) and hospital-based cancer registries (HBCR).

    HBCH & RC, Punjab is focused in providing world class services for cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    ***

    NKR/PSM

     

    (Release ID: 2113253) Visitor Counter : 13

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Expanding Housing Opportunities: Governor Polis Kicks Off Groundbreaking for 190 New Homes & Community Healthcare Center

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis joined members of the Denver community to break ground on new housing that includes 190 new affordable homes as well as a health clinic focused on serving American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) individuals and families.

    “In Colorado, we are committed to expanding housing options Coloradans can afford and expanding healthcare coverage that is accessible and affordable. It is initiatives like this that will help us reach Colorado’s housing goals and save people money on their healthcare. I look forward to seeing the new homes, and continuing our work to reduce costs and deliver more housing for all Coloradans,” said Governor Polis.

    This effort is the result of the Colorado Division of Housing providing $5,640,000 through Prop 123 funding and a Housing Development Grant grant of $2,360,000 and a partnership between Mercy Housing, Denver Indian Health and Family Services (DIFHS), Native American Housing Circle (NAHC), and WellPower. The 190 new homes include 94 permanent supportive housing residences and 96 homes to fit families budgets, as well as the health clinic

    Governor Polis has signed historic housing laws in partnership with the legislature to create more housing near transit lines, give Coloradans the freedom to build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on their property, and eliminate unnecessary parking mandates that raise housing costs, and get rid of discriminatory occupancy limits. The Polis administration continues to be focused on expanding housing options for all Coloradans and creating more housing opportunities that Coloradans can afford, including through allowing more cost-effective, single-stair housing to be built and breaking down barriers for more modular housing that will save Coloradans money.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Stands Up for U.S. Army Veterans Denied Education Benefits Under the G.I. Bill

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today filed an amicus brief in the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims supporting the right of U.S. veterans and their children to access educational benefits under the G.I. Bill. The brief, filed in Yoon v. Collins, argues that veterans whose single unbroken period of military service made them eligible for both the Montgomery GI Bill and the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act (Post-9/11 G.I. Bill) should receive the educational benefits they earned under both programs.

    “Veterans earn educational benefits when they serve our country. This is part of the deal. Military families rely on the promised educational benefits to support their families and rejoin the civilian life that they have helped protect,” said Attorney General Bonta. “In denying veterans the education entitlements that they have earned, the VA breaks the promises made to veterans when they agreed to serve. California is home to 1.3 million veterans and has a responsibility to protect those who have protected us — I will continue to use the full force of my office to advocate for veterans in California and nationwide.”

    The United States has promised to provide veterans with education benefits since the Second World War. The G.I. Bill — first passed as the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act in 1944 for 16 million service members returning from World War II — helped to facilitate reentry for veterans by providing them with transformative education benefits. The G.I. Bill gave veterans the right to apply to the education and training programs of their choice, and covered tuition, books, supplies, counseling, and living allowances for education expenses. Congress has extended the G.I. Bill’s benefits several times since World War II, including in 1984 through the Montgomery G.I. Bill providing 36 months of education benefits, and again in 2008 through the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill also providing 36 months of education benefits. Overall, qualifying veterans can use up to 48 months of G.I. Bill benefits.

    In the brief, the attorneys general argue that the G.I. Bills reflect Congress’s intent to provide expansive education benefits to veterans and their families; as such, veterans should also be able to avail themselves of the benefits that they earned under both programs, regardless of whether their entitlement to those benefits came from multiple periods of military service, or a single unbroken period of service. Further, the decision interferes with states’ roles in helping veterans within their respective borders access critical educational benefits, which harms states’ veterans. The states work with the federal government to ensure that their veterans are able to transition successfully back to civilian life. 

    California is home to approximately 1.3 million veterans who may also receive support through state programs, including various programs offered by the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet). In 2023, 517,000 veterans in California, or 39 percent, held a bachelor’s degree or higher, including 292,100 with a bachelor’s degree, 158,200 with a master’s, 40,200 with a doctorate (Ph.D.), and 26,500 with a professional degree (M.D., D.D.S).

    In filing the brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Virginia, Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

    Attorney General Bonta is committed to protecting service members, veterans, and their families. In 2023, Attorney General Bonta filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court in support of a U.S. veteran’s attempt to access educational benefits under the G.I. Bill. The brief urged the court to review an erroneous lower court decision denying a U.S. Army veteran’s challenge of a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs ruling that limited the veteran’s benefits. The veteran, James R. Rudisill, despite having served multiple tours of duty in Afghanistan and Iraq and being awarded a Bronze Star Medal, was at risk of losing a year of education benefits due to incorrect interpretation by the federal government of his entitlement to benefits under the G.I. Bill. In 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision in Rudisill’s favor, holding that  service members who, through separate periods of service, accrue educational benefits under both the Montgomery and Post-9/11 GI Bills may use either one, in any order, up to the 48 month cap. 

    A copy of the brief is available here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland MS-13 Gang Members Indicted For Murder In Aid Of Racketeering

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury has charged Manuel Erazo Alvarado, a/k/a “Castigo,” 46, and Erick Guillen Pleitez, a/k/a “Kilo,” both of Annapolis, Maryland, with Murder in Aid of Racketeering.  The indictment was returned on February 13, 2025.  Erazo Alvarado made his initial appearance yesterday in the United States District Court in Baltimore, Maryland and Guillen Pleitez made his initial appearance on March 6, 2025 in the same courthouse.

    According to court documents, La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13, is an international criminal organization composed primarily of immigrants or descendants of immigrants from El Salvador, with members operating in the State of Maryland and throughout the United States.

    It is alleged that in 2017, the defendants were members or associates of MS-13 in Maryland.  During that time, the defendants engaged in narcotics distribution, collected extortion payments, or “rent,” and engaged in acts of violence.  On or about August 29, 2017, the defendants participated in the murder of an individual to maintain and increase their positions in the gang.  If convicted, the defendants face either a mandatory life sentence or death. 

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Kelly O. Hayes, United States Attorney for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Baltimore Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Baltimore; Chief Amal E. Awad of the Anne Arundel County Police Department; Chief Edward Jackson of the Annapolis Police Department; and Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr. Superintendent of the Maryland State Police made the announcement today.

    The FBI, HSI and Anne Arundel County Police Department, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) are investigating the case.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Kenneth S. Clark and James Hammond, along with Criminal Division Trial Attorneys Matthew Hoff and Amanda Kotula of the Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case is also part of an OCDETF investigation.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    PSN is a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    Anyone with information about MS-13 is encouraged to provide their tips to law enforcement.  The FBI and HSI both have nationwide tiplines that you can call to report what you know.  You can reach the FBI at 1-866-STP-MS13 (1-866-787-6713), or you can call HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE.

    An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wesley Chapel Man Sentenced To 5 Years For Receiving And Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Images

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, FL– U.S. District Judge William F. Jung today sentenced Neil Thomas (23, Wesley Chapel) to 5 years in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for receiving and possessing child sexual abuse images. The court also ordered Thomas to forfeit a cellular phone used in the commission of the offense, pay $24,000 in restitution to the victims, and register as a sexual offender. Thomas pled guilty on November 5, 2024.

    According to court documents, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) executed a search warrant at Thomas’ home in September 2023. During a search of Thomas’ cellphone, law enforcement found that in August 2023, Thomas received numerous videos depicting children being sexually abused. Thomas also possessed over 1,000 images and videos of child sexual abuse in his cellphone.

    “Protecting our most vulnerable communities will continue to be a focus of our special agents,” said ICE HSI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Micah McCombs. “This child predator will now spend time in prison thinking about his crimes.”  

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilyssa M. Spergel.

    This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: City Man Who Robbed Northeast Philadelphia Business, Carjacked a Mother and Daughter Outside Their Home Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Amir Harvey, 25, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Paul S. Diamond to 96 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and restitution of $717, in connection with the armed robbery of a commercial business and a carjacking, both in Northeast Philadelphia.

    Harvey was arrested and charged by complaint in September of 2022 and then indicted in October of that year. In October 2024, he pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery, carjacking, and possession of ammunition by a felon.

    As detailed in court filings and admitted to by the defendant, on September 9, 2022, at approximately 11 p.m., he and three others approached the Hook and Reel restaurant, located at 9763 Roosevelt Boulevard. Upon encountering an employee of the restaurant outside, Harvey entered and held the employee at gunpoint, ransacked the office, stole about $400 from the cash drawers, and fled.

    In the early morning hours of September 19, 2022, Philadelphia police officers responded to a report of a robbery in progress on the 8900 block of Maxwell Place, where the victim reported that her car had just been stolen by an armed individual as she and her teenage daughter were about to leave for school.

    The victim stated that around 6:15 a.m., she started her vehicle using an application on her cell phone. A short time later, she and her daughter exited their house and walked to the car parked in the front driveway, when they were approached by an armed individual, later identified as the defendant, who pointed an imitation firearm, fitted with a high-capacity magazine, at their heads.

    The defendant grabbed the victim’s keys and purse and sped away in her vehicle. The victim then used its location tracking feature on her cell phone app and informed police, who responded to that location on the 2000 block of Griffith Street, about 2½ miles from the victim’s home. Using neighborhood video surveillance footage, investigators traced the movement of the victim’s vehicle and the defendant to a nearby apartment complex.

    “This armed robbery and carjacking were violent crimes targeting absolutely innocent victims,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “Amir Harvey ambushed a restaurant employee on a break, and a mother and daughter heading off to school. Offenses like these inject fear into our community and affect our quality of life. The Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force is working every day to hold perpetrators accountable. Public safety is our top priority.”

    “Amir Harvey is going to federal prison for many years for this brazen and calculated carjacking and robbery,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “We hope this case deters those willing to use violence in our community. Working with our partners in our Carjacking Task Force and applying ATF’s unique forensic and investigative tools, we will continue to prevent and prosecute violent crime and make our streets safer.”

    The swift action to investigate and federally charge this defendant is the work of the Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force, which comprises members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Violent Crime Unit; the FBI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Philadelphia Police Department. The goal of the Task Force is to stem the wave of armed carjackings and violent crimes through investigative and enforcement techniques meant to identify, and refer for federal prosecution, all who terrorize innocent victims through commission of these offenses within Philadelphia and surrounding areas.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert E. Eckert and Lauren E. Stram.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to 125 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SOUTH BEND – Ezequiel Rosa-Hernandez, 47 years old, of Erie, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Rosa-Hernandez was sentenced to 125 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, in April 2022, Rosa-Hernandez drove from his home in Pennsylvania to Chicago to obtain a kilogram of cocaine intended for distribution in Pennsylvania. On his way back home, he was stopped in Indiana by law enforcement and the kilogram of cocaine was discovered.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, including the DEA North Central Laboratory, with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TUV meet Lord Murphy to discuss Protocol review

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Jim Allister today led a TUV delegation including Timothy Gaston MLA and Dan Boucher to meet Lord Murphy who has been commissioned to produce a review of the Protocol.
    Speaking after the meeting Jim Allister said:
    “We made it clear to Lord Murphy that we had little confidence in his review as he is constrained by his terms of reference to only bring forward recommendations which command cross community support. This is in stark contrast to the vote on the Protocol at the end of last year which required a simple majority. We therefore have a position where Unionism was denied a veto on a decision which moved the border to the Irish Sea and aligned us in more than 300 areas of law with the Irish Republic – laws in which we have no say – while Nationalism has a veto on any changes. Unionism has been left in a situation where our constitutional position has been trashed as that key pillar of the Acts of Union, Article Six which garentees freedom of trade within the UK, is in suspension.
    “We drove home the point that the answer to the Protocol is one which originated within the EU itself – mutual enforcement is the basis of trade between sovereign nations the world over and there is no reason why this wouldn’t work between Northern Ireland and our nearest neighbours. The resistance to this proposal was purely political because Dublin knows that it is a short step from economic unity to political unity.
    “I fear that Lord Murphy may well see the solution as closer alinement between the whole to UK and the EU. TUV drove home the point that not only would this not address the root of the problem but would be undemocratic as the solution to disrespecting the result of the referendum in one part of the UK cannot be to disrespect it across the UK.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Members approve ambitious Talent Strategy to foster growth and innovation

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Members of today’s Corporate Resources Committee (Thursday, 20 March) were presented with and approved the organisation’s Talent Strategy and Talent Action Plan, which have been designed to support initiatives to grow and retain talent within the Council, ensuring a sustainable workforce for the future. 

    The Talent Action Plan includes initiatives such as developing apprenticeship programmes, enhancing diversity and inclusion, and promoting flexible work models. The plan will be reviewed annually to support continuous improvement and adaptation to emerging needs.   

    Chair of the Corporate Resources Committee, Councillor Derek Louden, commented:  “Highland Council is committed to building a high-performing and agile workforce that can thrive in an ever-changing climate. By implementing the Talent Strategy, the Council is taking meaningful steps towards achieving its vision of a resilient and sustainable future workforce.”   

    Councillor Calum Munro, Vice Chair of the Corporate Resources Committee, added:  “A key element of our future workforce resilience – particularly for the more remote and rural areas within the region – will be in creating meaningful development opportunities for staff.  The “Grow Your Own” programme developed in-house for the Health & Social Care Service is just one example of an initiative which could be adapted and implemented within other areas of the organisation to support growth.”   

    The strategy is aligned with the Highland Outcome Improvement Plan (HOIP) 2024-2027, reflecting the Council’s commitment to maximising social, economic, and partnership opportunities. It provides a clear vision for workforce planning, talent attraction, and employee development.  In addition, it emphasises the importance of creating a fully engaged workforce equipped with the skills needed to meet present and future challenges. 

    20 Mar 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Key appointments form core leadership team at Inverness Castle Experience

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Issued by High Life Highland on behalf of The Highland Council

    The Inverness Castle Experience is delighted to announce the appointment of three senior roles, adding to its leadership team ahead of its highly anticipated opening later this summer.

    The Inverness Castle project is part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, which is a joint initiative supported by up to £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth.

    Rebecca Macdonald joins as Visitor Services Manager, born and raised in Inverness, she developed a passion for history through her dad’s influence, earning a BA Hons from the University of Strathclyde and a Master’s from the University of Liverpool. With over a decade of experience in customer service roles, she has a strong commitment to creating meaningful and engaging visitor experiences.  Rebecca has worked with The National Trust for Scotland for the past six years, including a leadership role at Culloden Battlefield. She is excited to bring her experience to Inverness Castle and help create a lasting experience for local and international visitors.

    Robert Ince has been appointed as Food and Beverage Manager.  Robert brings extensive experience from a leading local auction firm, where he managed catering and events, improving offerings and creating new business opportunities. Previously, he managed The Torridon, winning the AA Scottish Hotel of the Year award twice and earned a Manager’s Gold Medal from the Scottish Hotel Awards. Robert’s career spans prestigious Scottish properties like the Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle and Cromlix House. Known for innovation, reliability, and staff training, Robert is eager to bring the best of Highland hospitality to the Inverness Castle Experience.

    John Currie, a native of North Uist, is a Hebridean fisherman turned retail professional with over 10 years of experience takes on the role of Retail Manager, He has driven retail success at The Isle of Skye Candle Company and, for the past seven years, led retail operations at the National Trust for Scotland’s Glencoe and Glenfinnan visitor centres, tripling retail income and contributing a third of the charity’s total revenue. Joining the Inverness Castle Experience, John aims to combine his passion for the Highlands with his retail expertise to create something memorable and sustainable in Inverness, while also finding time to enjoy the hills where he feels most at home.

    These key appointments mark an exciting milestone as the Inverness Castle Experience prepares to welcome visitors later this year. The attraction will offer an immersive journey into contemporary Highland life, celebrating the Spirit of the Highlands through engaging stories, exhibits and experiences.

    Cllr Ian Brown, Leader of Inverness City and Area and Co-chair of the Inverness Castle Project Delivery Group, said: “We are thrilled to welcome these talented individuals to our team. Their expertise and enthusiasm will be instrumental in helping to shape an unforgettable experience for visitors from near and far.”

    High Life Highland Chief Executive Steve Walsh added, “These appointments demonstrate High Life Highland’s commitment to delivering the highest-quality visitor experience. Each of these individuals brings a wealth of experience and fresh ideas, ensuring, along with others in the  team, that the castle becomes a must-visit destination in the Highlands.”

    The Inverness Castle Experience project, opening later this year, will benefit from £30m in investment to support its redevelopment from the Scottish and UK governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and a range of other partners.   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – The detrimental impact of housing market regulation on supply and prices – E-001072/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001072/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nora Junco García (ECR), Diego Solier (ECR)

    Recent experience in Argentina shows how the removal of regulations in the housing market has led to a significant increase in supply. In contrast, Spain’s Housing Law has had the opposite effect: a 3 % contraction in supply and a 24 % increase in short-term rental prices, making access to housing more difficult for citizens.

    This evidence suggests that a policy based on price controls and overregulation produces negative effects, discouraging investment and reducing available supply. State intervention in rental markets – far from solving the problem – seems to aggravate the housing crisis. Moreover, legal uncertainty for landlords, coupled with the proliferation of ‘inquiokupas’ (squatters), further discourages renting, worsening the shortage of supply and driving up prices.

    Given the Commission’s role in promoting best practices and removing barriers that hinder competitiveness within the EU, it is crucial to assess these policies from a perspective based on economic efficiency and market freedom.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission plan to produce a report on the impact of national regulations on housing availability in the Member States?
    • 2.What measures is the Commission taking to foster a more dynamic housing market that attracts private investment within the EU?
    • 3.Does the Commission consider that rent controls may lead to a contraction in supply, as shown by the data from Spain?

    Submitted: 12.3.2025

    Last updated: 20 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on the request for waiver of the immunity of Maciej Wąsik – A10-0031/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    PROPOSAL FOR A EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT DECISION

    on the request for waiver of the immunity of Maciej Wąsik

    (2024/2043(IMM))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the request for waiver of the immunity of Maciej Wąsik, dated 29 July 2024, by the Prosecutor General of the Republic of Poland, transmitting a request from the Regional Prosecutor’s Office in Warsaw in connection with criminal proceedings brought against Maciej Wąsik, and announced in plenary on 16 September 2024,

    – having heard Maciej Wąsik on 18 February 2025 in accordance with Rule 9(6) of its Rules of Procedure and having regard to the documents submitted by him,

    – having regard to Articles 8 and 9 of Protocol No 7 on the Privileges and Immunities of the European Union, and Article 6(2) of the Act of 20 September 1976 concerning the election of the members of the European Parliament by direct universal suffrage,

    – having regard to the judgments of the Court of Justice of the European Union of 21 October 2008, 19 March 2010, 6 September 2011, 17 January 2013, 19 December 2019 and 5 July 2023[1],

    – having regard to Article 105(2) and (5) of the Constitution of the Republic of Poland,

    – having regard to Rule 5(2), Rule 6(1) and Rule 9 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the report of the Committee on Legal Affairs (A10-0031/2025),

    A. whereas, by letter dated 29 July 2024, the Prosecutor General of Poland transmitted a request for waiver of the immunity of Maciej Wąsik, issued by the Regional Prosecutor’s Office in Warsaw, in relation to alleged offences under Article 244 of the Polish Criminal Code in conjunction with Article 12 of that Code;

    B. whereas the request indicates that the actions Maciej Wąsik is alleged to have engaged in on 21 and 28 December 2023 in Warsaw, with premeditated intent and at short intervals, violated his five-year ban on holding a public position, which was imposed in a final and binding judgment handed down on 20 December 2023 by the Regional Court in Warsaw, insofar as Maciej Wąsik performed the duties of a Member of the Sejm (the lower house of the Polish Parliament) of the Republic of Poland by participating in the session of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland held on 21 December 2023, which included taking part in votes, and taking part in a meeting held by the Sejm’s Administration and Internal Affairs Committee on 28 December 2023; whereas the alleged actions constitute an offence under Article 244 of the Polish Criminal Code in conjunction with Article 12 of that Code;

    C. whereas the above charges were brought against Maciej Wąsik on 18 April 2024; whereas Maciej Wąsik was elected to the European Parliament in the European elections in June 2024; whereas Maciej Wąsik was not a Member of the European Parliament at the time of the alleged offence;

    D. whereas the alleged offence and the subsequent request for waiver of his immunity are not related to an opinion expressed or a vote cast by Maciej Wąsik in the performance of his duties within the meaning of Article 8 of Protocol No 7 on the Privileges and Immunities of the European Union;

    E. whereas Article 9, first paragraph, point (a), of Protocol No 7 on the Privileges and Immunities of the European Union provides that Members of the European Parliament enjoy, in the territory of their own State, the immunities accorded to members of their parliament;

    F. whereas in accordance with Article 105(2) and (5) of the Polish Constitution, from the day of the announcement of the results of the elections until the day of the expiry of his or her mandate, a Deputy shall not be subjected to criminal accountability without the consent of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland and he or she shall be neither detained nor arrested without the consent of the Sejm, except for cases when he or she has been apprehended in the commission of an offence and in which his or her detention is necessary for securing the proper course of proceedings;

    G. whereas the purpose of parliamentary immunity is to protect Parliament and its Members from legal proceedings in relation to activities carried out in the performance of parliamentary duties and which cannot be separated from those duties;

    H. whereas, in accordance with Rule 5(2) of its Rules of Procedure, parliamentary immunity is not a personal privilege of the Member but a guarantee of the independence of Parliament as a whole, and of its Members;

    I. whereas, in this case, Parliament found no evidence of fumus persecutionis, which is to say factual elements indicating that the intention underlying the legal proceedings in question is to undermine the Member’s political activity in his capacity as a Member of the European Parliament;

    J. whereas Parliament cannot assume the role of a court, and whereas, in a waiver of immunity procedure, a Member cannot be regarded as a defendant[2];

    1. Decides to waive the immunity of Maciej Wąsik;

    2. Instructs its President to forward this decision and the report of its committee responsible immediately to the competent authorities of the Republic of Poland and to Maciej Wąsik.

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

     

     

    The rapporteur declares under his exclusive responsibility that he did not receive input from any entity or person to be mentioned in this Annex pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure.

     

     

    INFORMATION ON ADOPTION IN COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    Date adopted

    18.3.2025

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    15

    5

    1

    Members present for the final vote

    Maravillas Abadía Jover, Tobiasz Bocheński, Ton Diepeveen, Mario Furore, Mary Khan, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Sergey Lagodinsky, Mario Mantovani, Pascale Piera, René Repasi, Krzysztof Śmiszek, Dominik Tarczyński, Adrián Vázquez Lázara, Axel Voss, Marion Walsmann, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Dainius Žalimas

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    David Cormand, Billy Kelleher, Arash Saeidi, Ernő Schaller-Baross, Kosma Złotowski

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Nacho Sánchez Amor, Angelika Winzig

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Loss of trust in fact-checking agencies and their funding from the public purse – P-000082/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Since 2021, the beginning of the current Multiannual Financial Framework, the Commission has provided support to five organisations (Agence France Presse; Agencia EFE SAU, S.M.E.; Asociación Maldita contra la Desinformación, Periodismo, Educación, Investigación y Datos en Nuevos Formatos; Associació Verificat; Newtral) that are relevant to the request of the Honourable Member, domiciled or headquartered in Spain and that meet the criteria to be considered fact-checking organisations according to the European Digital Media Observatory[1]. The information regarding EU funding is public[2][3].

    As stated in the recent Commission Opinion on the assessment of the Code of Practice on Disinformation[4], independent, impartial fact-checking can significantly contribute to identifying and addressing risks linked with the dissemination of disinformation, negative effects on civic discourse and electoral integrity while fully respecting freedom of expression, in line with the Digital Services Act’s[5] objective of creating a safer online space respectful of fundamental rights.

    The Commission does not interfere with the independence of fact-checking organisations; candidates are in fact required to demonstrate their independence when applying for funding.

    • [1] https://edmo.eu/resources/repositories/fact-checking-organisations-in-the-eu/
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/home
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/budget/financial-transparency-system/
    • [4] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/library/code-conduct-disinformation
    • [5] Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market For Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act), https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/digital-services-act-package
    Last updated: 20 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The demographic problem: Greece and the EU are dying a slow death – E-002545/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Demography Toolbox[1] provides a comprehensive mapping of tools and policy measures to support Member States on demographic change.

    It aims to reconcile family aspirations with paid work, promote gender equality, empower younger and older generations, and where necessary address labour shortages through legal migration. The effective integration of third-country nationals legally residing in the EU is essential.

    The European Social Funds Plus is the main EU funding instrument that invests in people and thus helps to address the demographic challenges. It has a total budget of EUR 142 billion. (EU funding and national co-financing) during 2021-2027.

    It supports measures as access to employment, including for youth and women, access to services, such as long-term care and childcare services, and education and skills.

    Well-managed legal migration can help reducing labour shortages. Migration in itself will not offset demographic decline. In line with the Pact on Migration and Asylum[2], providing a strong European response to irregular migration and migrant smuggling is an essential part of the comprehensive approach to migration (the EU has launched the Global Alliance to Counter Migrant Smuggling).

    The Pact is also establishing a set of new rules for managing migration and establishing a common asylum system at EU level. The new system will address the issue of irregular arrivals of non-EU nationals at the EU external borders.

    It will set up fast, efficient and streamlined procedures for asylum and return, as well as strong safeguards for the people concerned.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/publications/communication-demographic-change-europe-toolbox-action_en
    • [2] https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/pact-migration-and-asylum_en
    Last updated: 20 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Energy from renewable sources – EU legislation and Member States’ measures – E-003053/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    As outlined by the Affordable Energy Action Plan[1] adopted on 26 February 2025, it is urgent to support the roll out of cheap homegrown renewable energy sources which will ultimately contribute to lower energy bills of all European consumers.

    In this regard, the reduction of permitting times is instrumental, starting by a timely implementation of the recently adopted legislative framework.

    The Commission will provide Member States with dedicated implementation support and reinforce exchanges in order to identify best practices, barriers and solutions.

    Article 15 of the Renewable Energy Directive[2] notably requires that national rules concerning the authorisation, certification and licensing procedures be proportionate and necessary, not unduly restricting the development of a certain technology.

    The Commission is already in contact with the Italian authorities regarding their ongoing transposition work and there is an open infringement case against Italy for failing to transpose Directive (EU) 2023/2413 into national law.

    Against this background the Commission will assess any measures that will be notified by Italy as transposing Directive (EU) 2023/2413[3] and may take further steps if necessary.

    Moreover, pursuant to the Governance Regulation (Regulation 2018/1999), Member States are due to submit national contributions to the overall EU target, set in the Renewable Energy Directive (Directive 2018/2001 as amended by Directive 2023/2413).

    Italy submitted its final National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) on 1 July 2024, and the Commission is currently assessing it. As mentioned in the Mission letter of the Commissioner for Energy and Housing, the Commission will follow up on the assessment of those plans.

    • [1] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/publications/action-plan-affordable-energy-unlocking-true-value-our-energy-union-secure-affordable-efficient-and_en
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02018L2001-20240716
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32023L2413&qid=1737728921215

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Announcement of a ‘round table’ on the elections in Poland organised by the Commission – E-001044/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001044/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Kosma Złotowski (ECR)

    A statement made by Commission Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen regarding plans to organise a ‘round table’ on the presidential elections in Poland has raised a number of concerns. The responsibility for organising the electoral process lies exclusively with the national authorities and, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity, the EU must not take action unless it is more effective than action taken at national, regional or local level. This suggests that the Commission takes the view that Poland is not capable of organising elections in line with democratic standards.

    • 1.How does the Commission characterise the holding of a ‘round table’ concerning the monitoring of the organisation and conduct of the presidential elections in Poland in May 2025, and what measures are planned in this regard?
    • 2.What format will the meetings planned as part of the ‘round table’ take, who will participate in them, what will be the criteria for inviting stakeholders to participate, and will documentation from these meetings be produced and made available for review?
    • 3.Has the Commission ever undertaken similar activities falling under the concept of ‘round table’ in the context of democratic elections in Member States, and in particular in connection with recent elections in Europe: in Belgium in June 2024, in France in June and July 2024, in Romania in November and December 2024, in Croatia at the turn of 2024/2025, and in Germany in February 2025?

    Submitted: 11.3.2025

    Last updated: 20 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: We found a new wasp! Students are discovering insect species through citizen science

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andy G Howe, Research Fellow (Entomology), University of the Sunshine Coast

    Andy Howe, CC BY

    Playgrounds can host a variety of natural wonders – and, of course, kids! Now some students are not just learning about insects and spiders at school — they are putting them on the map and even discovering and naming new species.

    Studies indicate insect populations are declining, and species are going extinct every week in Australia. But scientists have only described about a third of Australia’s estimated total of insect species.

    This means around 150,000 of our insect species do not have formal scientific names. We know little about where they are and what they do in ecosystems — vital information for stopping biodiversity loss.

    So, our team developed the citizen science project Insect Investigators.

    We took scientists to 50 regional schools across three states to learn about insects and other arthropods such as spiders. Students of all ages got to survey insect diversity, search for new species, and engage with entomologists and taxonomists throughout the school year.

    Students helped name new species, including several species of parasitoid wasp.

    Some of the scientific names include Apanteles darthvaderi (Back Plains State School students thought the wasp had gone to the “dark side” because of the way the wasp “sucks the life out of caterpillars”), Mirax supremus (named after the pinnacle science class at Beerwah State High School), and Coccygidium mellosiheroine, which means “honey-coloured hero” (named by students collaborating from several Queensland schools, who considered the wasp a hero as it attacks a crop pest).

    Our latest paper on the project is now published. We learned hands-on citizen science increased students’ interests in insects, nature and science.

    Apanteles darthvaderi – the wasp that’s gone to the dark side.
    Katherine Oestmann & Olivia Portmann, CC BY

    How many insects?

    Around 1,800 students and more than 70 teachers collected insects in or near their schools.

    Teachers sent samples to the project team, which sorted and sent a selection of specimens to be DNA barcoded. This method involves sequencing a small section of the genome to tell different species apart.

    The specimens were then sent to experts around Australia, who are working to describe any new species collected.

    The students collected more than 12,000 insect specimens, including 5,465 different species – many of which are probably not described.

    It will take years to identify all the species and work out how many are new to science, but we already know 3,000 had not been recorded in the Barcode of Life DNA database (BOLD).

    Queensland Mount Molloy students and their Malaise trap.
    Andy Howe, CC BY

    Good for insects, good for learning

    Getting to know insects as part of this citizen science project was great for kids’ active learning and developing an appreciation of the natural world.

    Students said they felt more interested in insects, nature and science, and it inspired them to spend more time outdoors.

    “I learnt there are many insect and plant species… that I haven’t seen before and how in different ecosystems you can find different insects,” said a student from South Australia.

    When students are engaged, it’s no surprise teachers enjoy their jobs more too — and this is exactly what we found. The more enthusiastic the students were about nature and science experiences through the project, the more interested the teachers were in teaching these topics.

    One teacher reported “students gained an understanding of the work of scientists, how to participate in research, protocols to follow, and gained a huge interest in insects!”

    Insect Investigators won the 2024 Eureka Prize for Innovation in Citizen Science (Australian Museum)

    What did students get out of it?

    After the insect survey was completed, we asked 118 students and 22 teachers in nine of the schools about what they experienced, and how they see insects and nature now.

    Students said the chance to find a new species, as well as discovering and catching insects they had not seen before, were highlights of Insect Investigators.

    Experiencing a hands-on learning style, outside in nature, was also mentioned as a benefit of the program.

    Many students said they now wanted to spend more time outdoors, act and encourage others to protect nature, and pay more attention to insect conservation and science classes. This implies the experience and discovery associated with hands-on citizen science has motivated greater engagement with nature and science.

    Queensland Cameron Downs kids show off an insect they found.
    Andy Howe, CC BY

    The potential of school-based citizen science

    Insect surveys offer an accessible way for students to actively learn about science and nature. Insects are virtually everywhere and by photographing them, students can observe natural insect behaviour – without the need to collect them.

    The iNaturalist App and Atlas of Living Australia facilitate citizen scientists to explore nature around them. We’ve also created resources for teachers who want to introduce lessons on insects into their school homepage.

    It’s never too early to develop science literacy skills and give children the chance to develop their curiosity, critical thinking and problem solving.

    Connecting schools and scientists is a great way to engage young learners and foster connections to nature. It has the added bonus of inventorying our natural world which is vital to conserving Australia’s biodiversity.

    Andy G Howe receives funding from the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Forest & Wood Products Australia. Since 2019, he is active with CSIRO Stem Professionals in Schools.

    Erinn Fagan-Jeffries receives funding from the Australian Government and Queensland Government. She sits on scientific advisory committees for Invertebrates Australia and Earthwatch.

    Patrick O’Connor receives funding from the Australian Research Council, State and Commonwealth Government Agencies and he is a board director of the Nature Conservation Society of SA, a committee member of the Restoration Decade Alliance and a councilor of the Biodiversity Council.

    Trang Nguyen receives funding from the End Food Waste Cooperative Research Centre and the Australian Government.

    – ref. We found a new wasp! Students are discovering insect species through citizen science – https://theconversation.com/we-found-a-new-wasp-students-are-discovering-insect-species-through-citizen-science-244960

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Every generation thinks they had it the toughest, but for Gen Z, they’re probably right

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Intifar Chowdhury, Lecturer in Government, Flinders University

    Every generation thinks they had it tough, but evidence suggests young Australians today might have a case for saying they’ve drawn the short straw.

    Compared with young adults two or three decades ago, today’s 18–35-year-olds may earn more, but they also grapple with soaring living costs, rising education expenses, precarious employment and mounting debt.

    Shifts in the economy and labour market have restructured young adulthood, creating new barriers to financial security and delaying milestones such as home ownership, partnership and parenthood.

    How does this compare to what life was like for young Australians at the turn of the century?

    Increasing education, decreasing payoffs

    University participation has risen, but so has student debt. It’s now far beyond what was intended when HECS was introduced as a supposedly fair, income-contingent loan system.

    Indexation has outpaced wages, so much so that today’s 20-somethings carry debts that are more than $10,000 higher in real terms than their counterparts two decades ago.

    The Morrison government’s 2021 fee hikes only exacerbated the crisis, with some degrees nearly doubling in cost, leaving students with an even greater debt burden.

    University fees have increased over the past 25 years.
    Shutterstock

    Yet the financial return on education is increasingly uncertain.

    Credential inflation has reshaped the job market, with even low-wage positions now expecting a university degree.

    The widespread belief that a degree guarantees better pay is driving more students into higher education, yet there are many graduates saddled with debt and working in roles unrelated to their qualifications.

    In 1996, 28.5% of 21–25-year-olds found themselves in mismatched jobs.

    By 2019, that figure had climbed to 33% just among 25-year-olds.

    Salaries aren’t keeping up. Since 1996, graduate wages have risen by a factor of just 2.5, while student contributions have jumped between 1.7- and 6.2-fold. This leaves today’s graduates with debt that consumes a larger share of their income than ever before.

    The dwindling dream of home ownership

    Housing affordability has collapsed over the years.

    Twenty-five years ago, the average house cost nine years’ worth of the average household income.

    Now, it’s about 16.5 years.

    In 2001, property prices rose 1.3 times faster than incomes. Since then, they’ve surged at 2.3 times the rate.

    This is fuelled partly by tax incentive policies – for example, the Howard government’s 1999 capital gains tax changes – and, more recently, the COVID pandemic.

    Soaring prices have deepened the intergenerational housing wealth gap, reducing the home purchase opportunity for young people. While the First Home Owner Grant, introduced in 2000, provides some support, saving for a deposit remains a years-long struggle.

    That is, unless parents can help.

    For many young Australians, intergenerational wealth is now the key to home ownership. Inheritance is becoming nearly as important as employment.

    Since 2002, the total value of wealth transfers has more than doubled in real terms, with larger inheritances expected for younger generations due to rising parental wealth and fewer siblings.

    But parental wealth is far more unequally distributed than income – shaped by education and region.

    Therefore, inheritocracy is set to deepen economic inequality within today’s youth cohort.

    But this isn’t just about the ultra-wealthy passing down mansions. Most inheritances involve an ordinary home or proceeds from its sale.

    Housing, once central to middle-class stability, now determines who can build wealth and who will struggle financially for life.

    Mounting mental health pressures

    Meanwhile, Australians today are borrowing more than ever. Default risk is rising fastest among under-30s as soaring interest rates, rent hikes, and cost-of-living pressures squeeze finances.

    It’s then no surprise Gen Z is more concerned about finances than any other generation.

    Financial stress is taking a heavy toll on young people’s mental health. Between 2007 and 2022, the prevalence of mental health disorders among young Australians surged by nearly 50%.

    The burden of disease from non-fatal conditions – measured in years of healthy life lost – has risen 7% since 2003. This is largely due to mental health disorders and substance abuse, which disproportionately affect young people.

    Growing up Indigenous

    At the deepest end of these struggles are Indigenous youth, who face far greater challenges than their non-Indigenous peers.

    Across nearly every measure – education, employment, health and incarceration – outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people remain significantly worse.

    While today’s Indigenous youth have achieved better outcomes compared to previous generations – 39% of Indigenous Australians aged 20+ had completed Year 12 in 2021, up from 19.4% in 2001 – these gains still lag behind non-Indigenous youth.

    Systemic barriers, institutional racism and intergenerational trauma continue to limit fair access to opportunities. This compounds inequalities and contributes to higher rates of mental ill-health, stress and suicide among Indigenous youth.

    The changing politics of being young

    Undoubtedly, a continued period of instability and psychological distress in formative years is also shaping the youngest generation’s political attitudes and behaviours.

    With fewer assets to conserve compared to their parents or grandparents, they are more likely to lean more to the left politically, and this won’t change with age.

    Yet, they remain engaged, thanks in part to compulsory voting, but are also abandoning party loyalties.



    Read more:
    I looked at 35 years of data to see how Australians vote. Here’s what it tells us about the next election

    Australian Election Study data shows 18–30-year-olds were more interested in politics in 2022 than in 1998 (67% vs 63%). At the same time, they were more likely to change votes during campaigns (43% vs 30%) and less likely to consistently vote for the same party (28% vs 40%).

    Their right-wing identification has nearly halved since 1998, with the youth vote increasingly favouring left-wing parties (75% vs 61%).

    However, younger Australians’ diverse digital news habits add to their political unpredictability. With 60% of Gen Z relying short-form videos, podcasts, and social media platforms for news in 2024, they are increasingly exposed to fragmented, algorithm-driven content.

    This shift, coupled with rising concerns about misinformation, contributes to their volatility as voters.

    Overall, young Australians are coming of age in an era where hard work no longer guarantees security. How Australia adapts to this shifting economic and political reality will shape the country’s future for decades to come.

    This piece is part of a series on how Australia has changed since the year 2000. You can read other pieces in the series here.

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

    – ref. Every generation thinks they had it the toughest, but for Gen Z, they’re probably right – https://theconversation.com/every-generation-thinks-they-had-it-the-toughest-but-for-gen-z-theyre-probably-right-249604

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What’s the difference between baking powder and baking soda? It’s subtle, but significant

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nathan Kilah, Senior Lecturer in Chemistry, University of Tasmania

    Karynf/Shutterstock

    There is something special about sharing baked goods with family, friends and colleagues. But I’ll never forget the disappointment of serving my colleagues rhubarb muffins that had failed to rise. They were dense, rubbery and an embarrassment to the reputation of chemists as good cooks (#ChemistsWhoCook feeds on social media are full of delicious food).

    The cause of my failure was an imbalance between the acidity of rhubarb and the chemical raising agents I used in baking.

    Both baking powder and baking soda can play a role in giving baked goods their bubble-filled texture and taste. They are sold side-by-side in the supermarket, and have similar uses. But what’s the difference between them and how can we use those differences to our advantage?

    What’s in the box?

    A quick look at the packaging shows the difference between the two products.

    Baking soda contains one ingredient: sodium hydrogen carbonate, also known as sodium bicarbonate or simply bicarb. Baking soda is well known for its uses in cleaning, cooking and deodorising.

    Baking powder is typically a mixture of three ingredients: baking soda, an acid, and a starch derived from corn, rice or wheat. The starch makes it easier to measure the powder and also prevents the acid and base from reacting prematurely in the pantry. Baking powder is used exclusively for cooking.

    The common ingredient in both products is the baking soda. This salt can be purified from natural sources, or can be prepared synthetically.

    The acid is the key

    Baking soda is a base, which means it can chemically react with acids. This fizzy reaction produces bubbles of carbon dioxide, water and a mix of new salts. Baking soda can also release carbon dioxide gas when it is heated at temperatures above 80°C.

    When you mix baking soda into a cake batter, you will see some initial chemical activation by food acids. This causes bubbles to form and the mixture to rise.

    The acids come from other ingredients in the mix, such as yogurt, buttermilk, or the rhubarb in my failed muffins. Too much acid, and the majority of the carbon dioxide will be released at this batter stage.

    Once you place the mixture in the hot oven, the high temperature will form further carbon dioxide bubbles. This thermal activation forms a new salt, sodium carbonate, which can give a residual taste and “soapy” mouthfeel if there’s too much of it left in the final product.

    Baking soda produces bubbles when mixed with acid, and when exposed to a high temperature in the oven.
    SergeyKlopotov/Shutterstock

    Mixing baking powder into a cake batter will also result in chemical activation to form bubbles. The baking soda in the mixture will react with the acid included in the baking powder mix, as well as any acidic ingredients in the batter.

    The type of acid included in the baking powder can subtly change the way the baking powder behaves. The more soluble the acid in the batter, the faster the carbon dioxide will form bubbles.

    Recipes that ask for both baking powder and baking soda are likely looking to do two things: neutralise an abundance of food acid from another ingredient, and provide time-delayed, temperature-activated rising.

    Baking soda can also increase the surface browning of food by enhancing the Maillard reaction. This class of reactions results in delicious chemical transformations in roasted coffee, seared steaks, baked bread and more.

    Meanwhile an excess of baking soda can change the appearance of foods, for example turning blueberry anthocyanins green in muffins or pancakes.

    Too much sodium carbonate left over during baking can contribute to a ‘soapy’ mouthfeel – a real risk for scones, for example.
    Zain Abba/Pexels

    Can I substitute baking powder and baking soda?

    Baking (like chemistry) is a precise science. It’s best not to substitute baking soda for baking powder or vice-versa: they have subtly different chemical effects.

    If you really need a substitution, the general rule is that you need three times the baking powder for the equivalent quantity of baking soda (so, if the recipe asks for a teaspoon of baking soda, you’d add three teaspoons of baking powder).

    But it’s not a precise conversion: it doesn’t take into account the key role of acid that’s already in the baking powder. This could affect the final acid-base balance in your recipe.

    You can compensate by adding an acid such as cream of tartar or citric acid. But it can be difficult to get the relative quantities of acid and base correct. These acids are also likely to promote immediate release of carbon dioxide, with less left to activate in the oven – potentially leading to a dense bake.

    You definitely shouldn’t substitute baking powder for baking soda when cleaning. The acid in the baking powder will neutralise any cleaning activity of the sodium bicarbonate, while the starch may leave a sticky, streaky mess.

    It’s best to keep both baking powder and baking soda in your pantry for their distinct uses. Be sure to share whatever delicious treats you bake with others, as well as sharing your new knowledge of the bubbly chemistry contained within.

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

    – ref. What’s the difference between baking powder and baking soda? It’s subtle, but significant – https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-baking-powder-and-baking-soda-its-subtle-but-significant-251050

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA stops the smuggling of $4.6M worth of Ketamine into Canada leading to criminal charges by the RCMP

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    March 20, 2025        Mississauga, ON        Canada Border Services Agency

    The RCMP and the CBSA announced today that four arrests have been made in Mississauga, Ontario, after foiling attempts to smuggle Ketamine, a dangerous anesthetic, from coming into Canada.

    Between February 18th and March 3rd, 2025, four separate individuals landed at Toronto Pearson International Airport, all arriving from Europe. Baggage examinations by CBSA border services officers uncovered 154 kilograms of suspected Ketamine concealed inside the travellers’ luggage, with an estimated street value of $4,608,000.

    Ketamine is an odorless and colourless drug that is used as a medical anesthetic in liquid form, but is often illicitly sold in powder form. There are several mental, physical, and long term effects associated with taking Ketamine. When taken, it can distort how an individual experiences sight and sound, and interferes with one’s ability to perceive pain. Due to these effects, it can sometimes be used to commit sexual assault.

    The CBSA seized the Ketamine and arrested the travellers. The RCMP Central Region Toronto Airport Detachment, Border Integrity Response team has charged:

    • Alison Louise Olmes (63), of Caledon, Ontario, with Importing a Controlled Substance, contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) for smuggling 30.8 kilograms of suspected Ketamine into Canada
    • Courtney Linda Johanne Desbois (27), of Toronto, Ontario, with Importing a Controlled Substance, contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) for smuggling 31.8 kilograms of suspected Ketamine into Canada
    • Lamia Hamici (40), of Montreal, Quebec, with Importing a Controlled Substance, contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) for smuggling 60 kilograms of suspected Ketamine into Canada
    • Britney Carolyn Allen (32), of Whitby, Ontario, with Importing a Controlled Substance, contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) for smuggling 30.95 kilograms of suspected Ketamine into Canada

    All accused have been released on an undertaking and are expected to appear at the A. Grenville and William Davis Courthouse in Brampton on March 26, 2025 and April 9, 2025.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney will eliminate GST for first-time homebuyers

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Canada is in a housing crisis – demand has gone up, supply has not kept pace, and prices are too high. The new government of Canada is taking immediate action to address this crisis.

    Prime Minister Carney today announced that the Government of Canada will eliminate the Goods and Services Tax (GST) for first-time homebuyers on homes at or under $1 million. This tax cut will save Canadians up to $50,000 – allowing more young people and families to enter the housing market and realize the dream of homeownership. By eliminating the GST, Canadians will face lower upfront housing costs and keep more money in their pocket. Eliminating the GST will also have a dynamic effect on increasing supply – spurring the construction of new homes across the country.

    The Prime Minister is laser-focused on lowering costs and will continue to present serious solutions to ensure Canadians are better off. The Government of Canada will confront the housing crisis head-on and build the strongest economy in the G7.

    Quote

    “Our government is laser-focused on lowering costs for Canadians and making homeownership a reality. Eliminating the GST will save first-time homebuyers up to $50,000 and spur housing construction across the country. We will announce a series of new measures to increase housing supply shortly. It’s time for focused action to solve the housing crisis, and it’s time to build a Canada you can afford.”
    — The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Final Defendant Sentenced in Meth Conspiracy Tied to Officer’s Murder

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    The Defendants Conspired with Michael White and Others to Distribute Methamphetamine

    ABINGDON, Va. – The final defendant who participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine tied to the murder of Big Stone Gap, Virginia Police Officer Michael Chandler, was sentenced this week in federal court.

    Brian Carroll, 43, of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, was sentenced yesterday to 108 months.

    Previously sentenced for their roles in the conspiracy were: Timothy Ray Jones – 235 months; Charles Ryan Bowman – 120 months; Elicia Amber Burns – 172 months; James Brian Mullins – 180 months; Justin Dwayne Skaggs – 132 months; Anthony Curtis Steven Holmes – 130 months; Tyler Lee Westmoreland – 54 months; Hailee Dietz and Paul Jones, each sentenced to 121 months; James Ray Worley – 120 months; Kacie Lynn Werner – 36 months; Amanda Nicole Blanton – 36 months; Lucille Vanover – 24 months and 17 days; Christopher Adam Dewayne Bates – 78 months; Misty Lynn Ward – 30 months; Keri Leann Corbin – 24 months and 19 days; and Tiny Westmoreland – 60 months.

    Michael White was sentenced to 100 years for his murder of Officer Chandler in furtherance of the drug conspiracy.

    A total of 19 defendants were charged and convicted of conspiring to distribute in total more than 15 kilograms of methamphetamine, as well as heroin and fentanyl. According to court documents, beginning in August 2021 and continuing until their arrest, the 19 defendants participated in a conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine from Tennessee and other states into southwest Virginia, and then further distribute it throughout Wise County, Virginia.

    Tragically, at approximately 4:00 a.m. on November 13, 2021, Officer Chandler responded to a welfare check call at 2505 Orr Street in Big Stone Gap, known locally as “the red house.” Upon arriving at the Orr Street address, Officer Chandler encountered a vehicle outside the residence and was immediately shot by Michael Donivan White. Officer Chandler died later that evening from his injuries. White was later located at a motel in Kingsport, Tennessee, and a subsequent search of the motel room revealed a Taurus, 9mm pistol. Further testing ultimately proved this firearm to be the same one that fired the shots that killed Officer Chandler.  Michael Donivan White was indicted on federal and state charges for killing Officer Chandler and has since pled guilty and been sentenced to 100 years of active incarceration in both cases.

    Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee, and Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the announcement.

    The investigation of this case was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Virginia State Police, the United States Marshal’s Service, the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Norton Virginia Police Department, the Kingsport Tennessee Police Department, the Big Stone Gap Police Department, the Wise County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the East Tennessee Drug Task Force, and the Southwest Virginia Drug Task Force, which is comprised of investigators from the Virginia State Police, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Wise County Sheriff’s Office, City of Norton Police Department, and Big Stone Gap Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lena L. Busscher and Danielle Stone are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CEO Of Georgia HVAC Company Charged With Illegally Importing Harmful Greenhouse Gases Into The United States

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TRENTON, N.J. – The chief executive officer of a Georgia-based HVAC company has been charged with illegally importing 500 cylinders of potent greenhouse gases known as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) into the United States from Peru, U.S. Attorney John Giordano announced today. This case is the second prosecution in the United States under the AIM Act, and the first prosecution of a corporate executive.

    William Randolph Hires a/k/a “Randy Hires,” 57, of Woodstock, Georgia and Lima, Peru, is charged by complaint with violating the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM Act) by unlawfully importing 500 cylinders of HFCs. Hires appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge André M. Espinosa in Newark federal court.

    HFCs include refrigerants used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems commonly known as “Freon.” The global warming impact of an HFC can be hundreds to thousands of times greater than carbon dioxide. Because of this, in 2020 Congress enacted the AIM Act, which authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to phase down the production and consumption of HFCs by 85 percent over time. 

    “The defendant’s actions in this case not only violated the AIM Act and created a threat to the environment they also unfairly disadvantaged other law-abiding U.S. businesses,” said Dan Meyers, Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division. “Today’s charges send a clear message: Enforcement of the law protects our air, land, and water, ensuring a brighter future for our citizens and a level playing field for American businesses and workers.”

    “Hires disregarded our nation’s environmental laws and put our country at risk with shipments containing potent greenhouse gases,” said ICE HSI Newark Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel. “HSI Newark successfully conducts investigations into violations of U.S. import and export laws to ensure national security and protect the public’s health and safety. We will hold individuals and corporations accountable for violating global trade regulations.”
    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    In April 2022, on behalf of his company, Hires purchased 500 cylinders of HFCs in Peru. Over the next several months, EPA officials explained to Hires’s employees that, under the AIM Act and its implementing regulations, Hires’s company could not lawfully import the HFCs to the United States because it did not have the required EPA-issued allowances. In a July 22, 2022 email to one of Hires’s employees, an EPA official stated, in substance, “it is not possible to import bulk HFCs without consumption allowances.”

    Hires’s employees conveyed this information from the EPA to Hires on several occasions. On one occasion, an employee forwarded to Hires an email that the employee had received from an EPA official which stated, “[t]he HFC you listed (R-410A) is a regulated substance. So if you do not have allowances, you cannot import those bulk HFC refrigerants.” In another email exchange between Hires and an employee, the employee informed Hires that, based on a video conference the employee had with EPA officials, shipping without the necessary allowances would violate import laws so “[i]t is out of our hands.”

    Hires nevertheless instructed his employees to illegally import the HFCs into the United States. In a July 28, 2022 email, Hires stated to his employees: “[y]eah you have to be careful what agencies you’re reaching out to because the EPA . . . can create a hassle and they can hold our stuff up in customs there[.]” In a subsequent email, Hires instructed his employees to “get [the HFCs] on the ship and get it out to sea . . . don’t care what it takes[.]” Hires later instructed his employees via email: “Do not call the EPA please do not.”  

    The violation of the AIM Act with which Hires is charged carries a maximum potential penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    U.S. Attorney John Giordano credited special agents of the Environmental Protection Agency-Criminal Investigation Divisions, under the direction of Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge Dan Meyers;  special agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, New Jersey Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel; and officers of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Francis J. Russo, Director of Field Operations, New York Field Office, with the investigation leading to today’s charge.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica R. Ecker and Bernard J. Cooney of the Health Care Fraud Unit, and Senior Trial Counsel Barbara Ward of the Asset Recovery and Money Laundering Unit, in Newark, and Trial Attorney Ronald A. Sarachan of the Environmental Crimes Section of the U.S. Department of Justice Environmental and Natural Resources Division.

    The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Defendants with Felony Convictions Sentenced to a Total of 15 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                 MONROE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced the resolution of four separate firearm cases in the Western District of Louisiana today. Chief United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced the following four defendants:

               Quinntavious Crump, 25, from Monroe, Louisiana was sentenced to 24 months (2 years) followed by three years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.  On June 27, 2021, After the stop, the LSP Trooper asked Crump to step out of the car and asked for consent to search the car. Crump granted consent and stated that he was going to jail because there was a gun in the car and that he was a convicted felon. Thereafter, a Glock pistol, model 23Gen4; caliber 40 loaded with 13 rounds of ammunition was found in the vehicle. 

               Andreveon Kyles, 20, from Monroe, Louisiana was sentenced to 60 months (5 years)    followed by three years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. On July 15, 2024, Andreveon Kyles was the passenger in a vehicle stopped by Ouachita Parish Sheriff deputies for a traffic violation. During the stop, deputies found that Kyles was in possession of a Taurus pistol; model: G2C (PTlll G2A); caliber: 9mm, and ammunition and determined that he was a convicted felon.  Lyles subsequently pled guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on December 13, 2024, admitting that he knew he was prohibited from possessing the firearm and ammunition. 

               Charles Montgomery, 40, from Monroe, Louisiana, was sentenced to 42 months (3.5 years) followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. On June 20, 2022, Charles Montgomery was stopped by Ouachita Parish Sheriff deputies for a traffic violation. During the stop, deputies searched vehicle and located a Canik pistol, model: TP9 SF Elite; caliber: 9×19. Montgomery admitted to possessing the firearm and told deputies how he obtained the firearm. He knew at the time of the offense that he was a convicted felon. He was arrested and charged with felon in possession of a firearm. He pled guilty and admitted to the charge on December 13, 2024.

                   Zachary Coburn, 25, from Memphis, Tennessee, was sentenced to 56 months (4 years and 8 months)  followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm.  On May 13, 2024, Zachary Coburn entered S&W Pawn Shop in West Monroe, Louisiana. While there, he stole a Kel-Tec CNC Inc Rifle; Model: RDB; Caliber: 5.56, and ammunition and exited the shop. On May 15, 2024, an arrest warrant was executed at Coburn’s West Monroe residence, and the rifle was found in the laundry room of the home. Post-Miranda, he admitted to possessing the rifle. Prior to possessing the rifle, Coburn had been convicted of a felony offense. He pled guilty on December 19, 2024 to the charge. 

               These cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.

                These cases were investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Louisiana State Police.  The cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Seth Reeg, Robert F. Moody, Cheyenne Wilson, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Catherine L. Semmes.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Vengeful ghost cat, divorce lizard, phantom horse: the animals that haunted Ancient Rome and Greece

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rebecca Willis, PhD Candidate, Classics and Ancient History, University of Newcastle

    djkett/Shutterstock

    You wake up at night sensing a weight on your legs that you thought was your pet dog – only to remember they died years ago. Or perhaps you know someone who swears they can still hear their childhood cat moving around the house, scratching at the door at night.

    Tales of ghost animals in our modern world are often framed as a comfort; the beloved pet returning to visit. But this has not always been the case.

    In ancient Greece and Rome, you might assume that the close relations between humans and animals would result in many tales of animal ghosts, but this is not the case. In fact, such stories are actually incredibly rare.

    And the handful of examples that do exist depict the ghostly animals not as friendly visitors but as mere tools for humans – often to do evil.

    1. Revenge of the ghost cat

    One such example comes from the Greek Magical Papyri, a document from Graeco-Roman Egypt that’s written mostly in ancient Greek.

    This handbook of spells and magic rituals was used by professional magicians dating from the second century BCE to the fifth century CE.

    It includes a spell that allows a practitioner of magic to use a ghost cat to get revenge on their enemy.

    This spell, listed in the document as “PGM III 1-164” does not have a specific goal but is described as suitable for:

    every ritual purpose: a charm to restrain charioteers in a race, a charm for sending dreams, a binding love charm, and a charm to cause separation and enmity.

    A translation note observes that all of these are forms of malicious magic.

    In this spell, the ghost cat is a mere tool of a nefarious human.
    Evgrafova Svetlana/Shutterstock

    The focus of this spell is the ritual drowning of a cat. While holding the cat’s body underwater, the magician recites an incantation and calls to the “cat-faced god[ess]” to inform them of the mistreatment that their sacred animal is suffering.

    However, the magician boldly lies to the god, claiming that it is their chosen human target who is responsible for the killing.

    The enterprising magician then offers a solution to this affront, asking the god to allow the cat to return as a ghost to serve them as a daimon (a supernatural being with mystical powers).

    With the god’s support the magician was then free to curse or bind their chosen victim, suitably reframing the action as the cat’s own revenge against its presumed murderer.

    2. The divorce lizard

    Our second example also comes from the Greek Magical Papyri (listed as “PGM LXI. 39-71”).

    Like many erotic spells of antiquity, this spell was designed to attract a chosen target to the magician.

    However, some targets were easier to attract than others.

    This text offers a ritual solution to would-be magicians whose chosen victim was already married. By harnessing the power of another ghostly animal daimon, this ritual aims to destroy the marriage.

    The text begins by instructing the magician to find a spotted lizard “from the place where bodies are mummified”, kill it with hot coals and make it into a ghostly daimon.

    Take one lizard ‘from the place where bodies are mummified’…
    Cheshir.002/Shutterstock

    While the lizard is dying, the magician recites an incantation. This spell aims to destroy the couple’s relationship by making them hate each other.

    Later, hiding outside the couple’s home with the lizard’s ashes, the magician calls upon the newly dead lizard to return as a ghost daimon and force the target to abandon her marital home using its supernatural powers.

    Once complete, the target would become especially vulnerable to an attraction spell.

    3. The ghostly cavalry

    The final example comes from a document known as Descriptions of Greece, written by Greek traveller and geographer Pausanias in the second century CE.

    The author recounts a local tale about a haunted field where the Battle of Marathon took place in 490 BCE.

    Here, Pausanias claims, the sounds of “horses neighing and men fighting” can be heard every night as the ghosts of fallen Greek and Persian soldiers continue to do battle.

    Interestingly, Pausanias is careful to warn his readers that those who deliberately seek out these ghosts will suffer their wrath. Thankfully, though, anyone that stumbles upon them by accident will remain safe.

    Unlike the first two examples, these ghost horses are not facilitated by magic or divine power. So, why were they believed to return as ghosts when other horses did not? Just as the ghosts of infantry men retained their swords and shields so they could continue to battle each night, the horses remained an essential tool for the ghosts of the cavalrymen.

    The sound of ‘horses neighing and men fighting’ can be heard at one battlefield, Greek traveller Pausanias reports.
    knight of silence/Shutterstock

    Animals with a ghostly purpose

    These examples provide a fascinating window into the perception of animals in antiquity.

    It is well evidenced that the Greeks and Romans adored their pets, and in everyday life animals were given many different roles in society.

    However, after death these roles are drastically narrowed. In ancient times, animals seem only to return as ghosts in situations where they exist as tools for human use.

    It remains to be seen what afterlife the ancients believed would be experienced by animals without a ghostly purpose.

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

    – ref. Vengeful ghost cat, divorce lizard, phantom horse: the animals that haunted Ancient Rome and Greece – https://theconversation.com/vengeful-ghost-cat-divorce-lizard-phantom-horse-the-animals-that-haunted-ancient-rome-and-greece-249482

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Soundstage Will Support Film Industry Growth

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    A soundstage facility purchased by Screen Nova Scotia with support from the Province will expand opportunities for the thriving film industry.

    The government has invested $8 million towards the soundstage – a large, sound-proofed building used for filming – which will increase the industry’s capacity and allow productions to continue year round.

    “Film and television production is booming in our province. We’re committed to fuelling that success, which creates high-value jobs and drives economic growth,” said Premier Tim Houston. “By investing in the right infrastructure, we will help unlock the full potential of our film industry and show the world what Nova Scotia has to offer.”

    The Mount Uniacke facility has multiple buildings to support various production needs, including two clear-span soundstages and space to support long-term growth. It will be ready to accommodate productions later this year.

    Quotes:

    “Our community is thrilled to welcome this world-class production facility right in our backyard. Films provide us with entertainment, but they also create jobs and bring a boost to local businesses.”
    — Brad Johns, MLA for Sackville-Uniacke, on behalf of Dave Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage

    “This is a pivotal moment in the post-2015 film industry era. Over the past 10 years, the film industry has not only rebuilt but has now re-established its position as a key player in boosting our economy. Today’s announcement is a vital part of our growth potential. A soundstage will anchor our industry for the future – providing a year-round home for productions, attracting business, creating jobs and playing a critical role in developing our workforce to grow the industry.”
    — Laura Mackenzie, Executive Director, Screen Nova Scotia

    **Quick Facts:##

    • the Province has invested $77 million in the Nova Scotia Film and Television Production Incentive Fund for 2024-25, generating more than $160 million so far in production spending
    • Nova Scotia approved 88 productions in 2024-25

    **Additional Resources:##

    Screen Nova Scotia: https://screennovascotia.com

    Other than cropping, Province of Nova Scotia photos are not to be altered in any way.

    MIL OSI Canada News –