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Category: India

  • MIL-OSI USA: Newhouse Leads Resolution Designating National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: Newhouse Leads Resolution Designating National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM) introduced a bipartisan resolution in the House of Representatives to designate May 5, 2025, as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.  

    “The rate of missing and murdered indigenous women cases increase every year, and impacted communities continue to suffer,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Designating May 5 as National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls sheds light on this crisis and serves as a reminder that we must better equip our native communities to solve these devastating cases. I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining me on this important issue.” 

    “The U.S. can no longer look away from the pain and injustice endured by Indigenous families whose mothers, daughters, sisters, and relatives have gone missing or been murdered,” said Rep. Leger Fernández. “Honoring the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls is one way to bring national attention to this issue. As a nation, we have a moral responsibility to confront this crisis head-on—to honor the lives lost, support the families who continue to grieve, and make sure that Native communities have the resources, authority, and protection they deserve. We must uplift Native voices and invest in services for Indian Country so there are no more stolen sisters and no more stolen joy.” 

    Newhouse and Leger Fernández were joined by Reps. Tom Cole (R-OK), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Ed Case (D-HI), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Kim Schrier (D-WA), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), and Mark Pocan (D-WI) in introducing the resolution.  

    Rep. Tom Cole, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee said, “For far too long, dangerous predators have disproportionately targeted indigenous women and girls, with violence against Native women greatly exceeding the national average. Ending this crisis starts with awareness. Thanks to the leadership of Rep. Newhouse, this legislation designates May 5th as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, which is critical to increasing awareness of this issue and stopping this terrible crisis once and for all.” 

    Rep. Jared Huffman, Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee said, “Although the epidemic of missing Indigenous people spans the country, these tragic crimes are often ignored. Tribal members in my district and across the country have been putting in the hard work on the ground to protect their people – but they can’t do it all alone. We have to shine a light on this crisis, and by designating May 5th as the National Day of Awareness for MMIW, we can call attention to this pervasive issue and get tribal communities the focus and support needed to end this injustice.” 

    Rep. Dusty Johnson said, “Every life is worth fighting for. I’ve worked with South Dakota’s tribal leaders to advocate for additional tribal law enforcement resources and it’s important more than ever to continue focused efforts on our missing and murdered indigenous women and girls. According to the South Dakota Missing Persons Clearinghouse, nearly 60% of all missing persons in South Dakota are Native American. I’m grateful to partner with Rep. Newhouse to bring hope and healing to families across South Dakota.” 

    Rep. Greg Stanton said, “It’s one of our nation’s greatest shames that such violence is perpetuated against Native communities, especially Native women, to this day. By designating May 5 as a National Day of Awareness for MMIP, this resolution honors the many victims and their families while calling on us all to finally end this crisis of violence. I’m proud to reaffirm my commitment to ensuring Native communities have all the necessary resources to seek justice and healing.” 

    Rep. Stephanie Bice said, “I strongly express my support for the designation of May 5th as the ‘National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’. Not only are Indigenous people disproportionately the victims of violence in America, but also in Oklahoma. A study by the Urban Indian Health Institute rated Oklahoma in the top 10 states for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. I’m grateful that my colleague, Congressman Dan Newhouse, introduced this critical legislation. We must continue working to bring awareness to these heartbreaking tragedies so that affected families may find justice.” 

    Rep. Adrian Smith said, “The prevalence of violence against indigenous women and girls is a tragedy which calls for action. I thank Rep. Newhouse for his leadership on this resolution honoring survivors, families, and those we have lost.”

    The legislation is supported by stakeholder groups including the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, the Tulalip Tribes, the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center, and the National Congress of American Indians.

    Gerald Lewis, Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council said, “The Yakama Nation appreciates Congressman Newhouse continuously acknowledging the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous people throughout Indian Country. The hardship of having missing and murdered relatives at a regular and increasing rate causes distress for the Yakama Nation and other tribal nations with significant land bases; many times, we lack resources and support to adequately patrol our homelands. Preventative action could assist in combating this issue that continues to engrain generational trauma into our people. To accomplish this, support must be provided to tribal nations’ public safety, law enforcement, and justice systems through legislative action and collaboration from all governing bodies; no matter if they are local or federal. We can work together to bring our people home.” 

    Charlene Tillequots, Yakama Nation Tribal Council, Chair for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Committee said, “Indian Country has dealt with crime and harm against our people for far too long. Today many families grieve the loss of a loved one, with no justice or closure to comfort them, because of shortfalls that obstruct initiatives that could combat this issue. The Yakama Nation and tribes across the United States desperately need resources for safety measures and justice services to protect the communities on our Reservation – this help includes recognition that this needs to be addressed immediately. Congressman Newhouse’s gesture, this resolution, addresses an impediment to Tribal sovereignty and public safety work we face today. We hope to continue making progress for future generations to be in a safer place than we are now – we’re simply aiming, at the very least, to have our family members make it home each night.” 

    Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation said, “The Colville Tribes appreciates and supports the efforts of Rep. Dan Newhouse and others in Congress to keep attention focused on the problem of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls. Despite receiving greater attention in recent years, the problem persists as Native women continue to suffer violence at rates much higher than the national average. The Colville Tribes supports the designation of a ‘National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’ and continues to support a federal MMIW law enforcement presence specifically dedicated to serve the Pacific Northwest.” 

    Teri Gobin, Chair, Tulalip Tribes said, “Every Native community in the nation has been touched by the epidemic of violence against Native people. Four out of five native women have experienced violence and more than half have been sexually assaulted by their intimate partners. Shining a light on the harm our people have experienced is a step towards fixing it. We urge our lawmakers to continue to fight for more resources for Tribes to create safe communities, including recognizing tribal court jurisdiction over cases that involve violence against our people. On May 5th, we will remember the lives taken too soon. We will drum and sing and cry together. We will pray and advocate. Together, we will build a future with no more stolen sisters” 

    Lucy R. Simpson, Executive Director, The National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center said, “The National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls serves as a commitment to honor those we have lost, amplify the voices of survivors and families, and address this crisis of violence directly. The National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center (NIWRC) sincerely thanks Representatives Newhouse and Leger Fernandez for their ongoing efforts to end violence against Indigenous people. Together, we must continue to seek justice, healing, and meaningful change.”  

    Shannon Holsey, President, NCAI Violence Against Women Task Force Co-Chair said, “May 5th is more than a day of remembrance—it is a call to action. The epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous women and relatives is a direct result of systems that have failed to protect us for generations. To end this crisis, we must continue to fully implement the tribal provisions of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and return authority to Tribal Nations to safeguard our people. We must act with urgency and unity to strengthen tribal jurisdiction and invest in Indigenous-led solutions. This starts with strengthening tribal sovereignty, restoring the rightful authority of Tribal Nations to protect our people, and honoring the sacredness of every life stolen. Every Native relative deserves to be safe, seen, and honored.” 

    Full resolution text here. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global CEO pay increased by 50 percent since 2019, 56 times more than worker wages

    Source: Oxfam –

    • Average CEO pay surged by 50 percent in real terms since 2019, while average worker wages increased by just 0.9 percent.
    • Every hour, billionaires pocket more wealth than the average worker earns in an entire year.  
    • The average gender pay gap in 11,366 corporations worldwide narrowed slightly from 27 percent to 22 percent between 2022 and 2023 ―yet their average female employee still effectively works for free on Fridays, while their average male employee is paid through the week.
    • Oxfam and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) are calling for higher taxes on the super-rich to invest in people and planet.

    Average global CEO pay hit $4.3 million in 2024, reveals new analysis from Oxfam ahead of International Workers’ Day (1 May). This is a 50 percent real-term increase from $2.9 million in 2019 (adjusted for inflation) —a rise that far outpaces the real wage growth of the average worker, who saw a 0.9 percent increase over the same five-year period in the countries where CEO pay data is available.

    The figures are median averages, based on full executive pay packages, including bonuses and stock options, from nearly 2,000 corporations across 35 countries where CEOs were paid more than $1 million in 2024. The data, analyzed by Oxfam, was sourced from the S&P Capital IQ database, which uses publicly reported company financials.

    • Ireland and Germany have some of the highest-paid CEOs, earning an average of $6.7 million and $4.7 million a year in 2024 respectively.
    • Average CEO pay in South Africa was $1.6 million in 2024, while in India, it reached $2 million.

    “Year after year, we see the same grotesque spectacle: CEO pay explodes while workers’ wages barely budge. This isn’t a glitch in the system —it’s the system working exactly as designed, funnelling wealth ever upwards while millions of working people struggle to afford rent, food, and healthcare,” said Oxfam International Executive Director Amitabh Behar.

    Boosts to global CEO pay come as warnings grow that wages are failing to keep pace with the cost of living. While the International Labor Organization (ILO) global reports real wages grew by 2.7 percent in 2024, many workers have seen their wages stagnate. In France, South Africa and Spain for example, real wage growth was just 0.6 percent last year. While wage inequality had decreased globally, it remains very high, particularly in low-income countries, where the share of income of the richest 10 percent is 3.4 times higher than the poorest 40 percent.

    Billionaires —who often fully, or in part, own large corporations— pocketed on average $206 billion in new wealth over the last year. This is equivalent to $23,500 an hour, more than the global average income in 2023 ($21,000).
    Beyond runaway CEO pay, the global working class is now facing a new threat: sweeping US tariffs. These policies pose significant risks for workers worldwide, including job losses and rising costs for basic goods that would stoke extreme inequality everywhere. 

    “For so many workers worldwide, President Trump’s reckless use of tariffs means a push from one cruel order to another: from the frying pan of destructive neoliberal trade policy to the fire of weaponized tariffs. These policies will not only hurt working families in the US, but especially harm workers trying to escape poverty in some of the world’s poorest countries,” said Behar.   

    Increasingly, corporations are being required by law to report their gender pay gaps ―the average difference in earnings between women and men. Oxfam’s analysis of the S&P Capital IQ database found that among 11,366 corporations across 82 countries that reported gender pay gap data, the average gap narrowed slightly from 27 percent to 22 percent between 2022 and 2023. Yet, on average, women in these corporations still effectively work without pay on Fridays, while their male counterparts are paid for the full week.

    Corporations in Japan and South Korea reported some of the highest average gender pay gaps in 2023 (around 40 percent). The average gap in Latin America was 36 percent in 2023, up from 34 percent the previous year. Corporations in Canada, Denmark, Ireland, and the UK reported average pay gaps of 16 percent.

    Oxfam’s analysis also found that out of 45,501 corporations across 168 countries where the CEO is paid more than $10 million and their gender is reported, fewer than 7 percent have a female CEO.

    “The outrageous pay inequality between CEOs and workers confirms that we lack democracy where it is needed most: at work. Around the world, workers are being denied the basics of life while corporations pocket record profits, dodge taxes and lobby to evade responsibility,” said Luc Triangle, General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).

    “Workers are demanding a New Social Contract that works for them —not the billionaires undermining democracy. Fair taxation, strong public services, living wages and a just transition are not radical demands —they are the foundation of a just society. It’s time to end the billionaire coup against democracy and put people and planet first.”

    Oxfam and the ITUC are calling on governments to sustain and accelerate momentum on taxing the super-rich, both nationally and globally. This includes introducing top marginal rates of tax of at least 75 percent on all personal income for the highest earners to discourage sky-high executive pay. Governments must also ensure minimum wages keep up with inflation, and that everyone has the right to unionize, strike and bargain collectively.
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth

    The UK has secured the best deal India has ever agreed, providing businesses with security and confidence to trade with the fastest-growing economy in the G20.

    Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds with Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal

    Delivering Economic Growth 

    The core mission of this Government is to deliver economic growth that raises living standards and puts money in people’s pockets, and that is exactly what this deal will do. We estimate that it will increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, add £4.8billion a year to our economy and boost wages by £2.2 billion every year in the long run. footnote 1 This is the best deal India has ever agreed to. It delivers on our manifesto commitment to create trade relationships that unlock new opportunities for businesses across all our nations and regions. 

    Case study – Standard Chartered 

    Standard Chartered is a leading UK-based international banking group with a presence in 53 of the world’s most dynamic markets. It is the largest and oldest foreign bank in India, acting as a ‘super connector’ of cross-border trade and investment by driving commerce and prosperity through its unique diversity for more than 165 years.   

    Saif Malik, CEO, UK and Head of Coverage, UK, Standard Chartered, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor.

    We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.

    Case study – UPS

    UPS is one of the world’s largest companies, with 2024 revenue of $91.1 billion, and provides a broad range of integrated logistics solutions for customers in more than 200 countries and territories, including connecting the United Kingdom and India. 

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics, said:

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network.

    We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Future-Proofing Our Economy 

    This deal gives UK businesses first-mover advantage with a new economic superpower. Currently the biggest country in the world by population, India is projected to move from its fifth-largest global economy to third in the next three years, thanks to the highest growth rate in the G20. footnote 2 By the end of the decade, it will be home to an estimated 60 million middle-class consumers, whose numbers are projected to grow to a quarter of a billion by 2050. footnote 3 And by 2035, their demand for imports is on course to top £1.4 trillion. footnote 4 The enormous scope of this market, where British goods and services are already sought after, represents an equally huge opportunity for UK businesses in the decades to come. 

    Case study – John Smedley Ltd

    Established in 1784 in Lea Mills, Derbyshire, John Smedley Ltd is a UK-based manufacturer and retailer of luxury knitwear. 

    Bill Leach, Global Sales Director, John Smedley Ltd, said:

    India is one of the fastest growing luxury markets in the world, and we are very excited about the UK- India Free Trade Agreement coming to fruition.

    John Smedley knitwear is already sold in over 50 countries around the world, and now that the FTA has been finalised, we shall very much look forward to ensuring that an ever-increasing number of discerning luxury consumers in India will enjoy greater access to The World’s Finest Knitwear.

    We are thankful to DBT for their significant efforts in bringing this FTA to successful conclusion.

    Cutting costs for UK-India trade 

    From day one, this deal will support businesses across the United Kingdom by making it cheaper, easier, and quicker to trade with India. The deal will slash costs on UK exports, including whiskies and gin, cosmetics, medical devices, advanced machinery and lamb. Based on current trade alone, India’s tariff cuts amount to £400m in the first year, going up around £900m after 10 years. footnote 5 And that’s before factoring in the savings from speedier and easier trade from improved customs and digital commitments. This immediate relief represents a major advantage our businesses will enjoy over their international competitors, helping them to invest, expand, and support more high-quality jobs. 

    Case study – Smith+Nephew

    Smith+Nephew designs and manufactures technology that takes the limits off living. Smith+Nephew’s products include: Advanced Wound Management; orthopaedics and a robot assisted surgery system; and joint preservation and soft tissue orthopaedics.

    Deepak Nath, Chief Executive Officer, Smith+Nephew, said:

    Given the size of the Indian economy and its healthcare system, India is an important location for Smith+Nephew. The Free Trade Agreement offers the potential to build trading links in the healthcare sector.

    We hope that the Free Trade Agreement will enable Smith+Nephew’s innovative medical technologies to support more healthcare professionals to return their patients to health and mobility.

    Delivering opportunities for High-Growth Sectors 

    This deal supports the UK’s world-leading high-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy, including:  

    • Slashing tariffs for UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors, including for automotives, electrical machinery and high-end optical products.  

    • Giving the clean energy industry brand new and unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market, as India makes the switch to renewable energy, alongside their growing energy demand. 

    • Unlocking new opportunities for medical devices firms within the life sciences sector, with reduced tariffs and rules of origin that factor in the UK’s complex supply chains and ensure that businesses can reap the benefits.  

    • Enshrining copyright protections for the creative sector, enabling our exporters to feel confident exporting to India with a commitment that works will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. India will also commit to engaging on aspects of Copyright and Related Rights. This deal addresses the interests of UK creators, rights holders, and consumers, including around Public Performance Rights and Artist Resale Rights, which acknowledge the importance of payment rights. India will also conduct an internal review of their copyright protection terms.   

    • Guaranteeing access for the UK’s world-class financial and professional business services sectors to India’s growing market. This is on top of securing India’s foreign investment cap for the insurance sector, ensuring UK financial services companies are treated equally to domestic suppliers, and encouraging the recognition of professional qualifications. 

    • Securing India’s best ever commitments on digital trade for our Digital and technology sectors, such as promoting digital systems and paperless trade, helping UK businesses of all sizes take the opportunities on offer in this huge and rapidly expanding market.  

    Case study – Premier League

    The Premier League is the world’s most-watched football competition, reaching 1.6 billion viewers in 189 countries around the world. The global success of the Premier League makes it one of the UK’s most significant soft power assets, amplifying British cultural values and generating economic growth and inward investment. 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India.  

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.

    Case study – EY

    EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. Fuelled by sector insights, a globally connected, multidisciplinary network and a diverse ecosystem of partners, EY teams provide services in more than 150 countries and territories. 

    Rohan Malik, EMEIA and UKI Government & Public Sector Managing Partner, EY, said:  

    This agreement is poised to accelerate an economic partnership that is already thriving, with the value of total trade between the UK and India having more than doubled from £16.6bn to £40bn over the last decade.

    British businesses stand to benefit substantially from enhanced access to one of the world’s largest export markets and a skills pool that can fuel strategically important UK sectors, including professional services and emerging industries based around data and AI.

    Case study – Concrete Canvas Ltd

    Concrete Canvas Ltd is a Wales-based low-carbon concrete manufacturer. 

    William Crawford, Director of Concrete Canvas Ltd, said: 

    India is a dynamic and vibrant economy and an increasingly important market for Concrete Canvas products. A UK-India FTA will help to accelerate our plans for growth by reducing trade barriers and making us more competitive.

    This is welcome news for both UK and Indian businesses!

    Case study – Biopanda

    Biopanda is a Belfast-based medtech manufacturer which exports in vitro test kits for clinical laboratories, veterinary practice, and food safety laboratories.

    Philip McKee, Sales Manager at Biopanda, said:  

    Biopanda have been supplying a range of diagnostic products to the Indian market throughout the past ten years.

    We value the business we have done already throughout India and with the introduction of the UK-India FTA this should benefit in increased trade with the removal of export barriers.

    This will hopefully increase the market access, allowing our distributors throughout India to provide a larger range of our highly accurate clinical diagnostic products at a lower price to the consumer.

    Unlocking Opportunities Nationwide 

    Through our Plan for Change, this government will raise living standards in every part of the United Kingdom. This deal supports that goal, unlocking new opportunities in every region and nation.  

    This deal also opens a huge new market for iconic UK brands, securing India’s best ever tariff offer and providing access to India’s growing middle-class consumer base, which will give iconic UK brands the opportunity to expand their reach and influence. This access includes cutting tariffs on whiskies from 150% to 75% at entry into force, following to 40% after 10 years, as well as on other agri-food products such as soft drinks dropping from 33% to 0% after seven years, and lamb dropping from 33% to 0% at entry into force. Separately high-end cars will benefit from a drop from over 100% to 10% under a quota. We have also secured India’s best ever agreement on Rules of Origin, which enables UK businesses to take advantage of these new lower tariffs.

    This deal will also support consumers as they benefit from the best of India and greater variety as our trading relationship grows, including clothing, footwear, and iconic food and drink. New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent.

    Case study – Chivas Brothers Ltd

    Chivas Brothers Ltd is part of the Pernod Ricard group of companies and exports over £2bn of Scotch whisky and gin every year, including brands like Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, The Glenlivet and Beefeater. India is amongst Chivas Brothers’ largest export markets and the biggest consumer of whisky worldwide by volume. The UK-India trade agreement will help solidify and potentially expand on Pernod Ricard’s existing investments, which includes a €200m distillery construction in the Indian state of Maharashtra and £100m in bottling facilities in Dumbarton, Scotland. 

    Jean-Etienne Gourgues, Chivas Brothers Chairman and CEO, said:

    The announcement of a free trade agreement in principle between the UK and India is a welcome boost for Chivas Brothers during an uncertain global economic environment.

    India is the world’s biggest whisky market by volume and greater access will be a game changer for the export of our Scotch whisky brands, such as Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s. The deal will support long term investment and jobs in our distilleries and bottling plants in Scotland, as well as help deliver growth in both Scotland and India over the next decade. Slàinte to the UK Ministers and officials who steered the deal though long negotiations.

    Case study – Diageo

    Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with a collection of brands across spirits and beer categories sold in more than 180 countries around the world. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.  

    Diageo is a leading player in India’s beverage alcohol sector and is among the top 10 fast-moving consumer goods companies in India by market capitalisation. Diageo has 50 manufacturing facilities across India, employs over 3,300 people directly in market with a further 100,000 jobs supported throughout its value chain. India is one of Diageo’s largest markets globally and accounts for almost half of its total global spirits volume.

    Diageo Chief Executive Debra Crew said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a huge achievement by Prime Ministers Modi and Starmer and Ministers Goyal and Reynolds, and all of us at Diageo toast their success. It will be transformational for Scotch and Scotland, while powering jobs and investment in both India and the UK.

    The deal will also increase quality and choice for discerning consumers across India, the world’s largest and most exciting whisky market.

    Enhancing Security through our partnership

    The UK and India already enjoy a deep and broad partnership built on our shared principles as two democracies, our commitment to the rules-based international order, strong ties in areas including culture, education, food, and sport, and of course through our living bridge – with some 1.9 million people with Indian heritage calling the UK their home. footnote 6

    This agreement encourages collaboration between our two complementary economies. It creates a framework to promote closer ties on innovation – including on new technologies in areas like agriculture, health, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy. And our agreement on business mobility will help experts on both sides deliver their services, enabling us to capitalise on the economic transformation that technology will bring over the course of this century. 

    Through this deal, we are showing the world that we stand for free, fair, and open trade. In an increasingly unstable and volatile world, this provides businesses with the confidence that they need to grow and expand. And as India’s approach to global trade changes, so can this deal. We have agreed in numerous areas that, if India offer a better deal to a different country, we can come back to the table to renegotiate for the UK. 

    Case study – Coltraco Ultrasonics

    Coltraco Ultrasonics are high-exporting advanced manufacturers of ultrasonic instrumentation and systems, exporting 90% manufactured output to 120 countries. Coltraco have twice won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade and have exported to India for 30 years. Since 2019, Coltraco have won the contract for nearly 200 ships of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard and support in-service use and maintenance of their ultrasonic watertight integrity instrumentation on board. 

    Professor Carl Stephen Patrick Hunter OBE, Chairman Coltraco Ultrasonics Limited & Director-General The Durham Institute of Research, Development & Invention, said:

    Coltraco Ultrasonics is strongly supportive of the India FTA Trade Agreement and proud to have modestly contributed to and advising the British negotiating team on various chapters.

    The UK private sector can now, because of the India FTA, the Windsor Framework CPTPP, and a variety of other UK FTAs, look out to the world, balancing our exporting and investment opportunities between the USA, the EU and Asia Pacific.

    It is a tremendous success and we thank British and Indian Civil Servants for their public service in the UK-India FTA.

    Unlocking Access to India’s Untapped Procurement Market 

    For the first time, UK businesses will have guaranteed and unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market, covering goods, services and construction. UK businesses will be granted brand new access to approximately 40,000 tenders with a value of at least £38 billion a year. footnote 8 This will unlock significant opportunities spanning a range of sectors, including transport, healthcare and life sciences and green energy. Alongside this UK firms will, for the first time, have access to India’s procurement portal, connecting them to the information they need to make the best out of these opportunities – which will grow as India builds the infrastructure necessary for an economic superpower with the world’s largest population. 

    UK companies will also get exclusive treatment under the ‘Make in India’ policy, which currently provides preferential treatment for federal government procurement to businesses who manufacture or produce in India. However, this unprecedented treatment will mean that if at least 20% of a company’s product or service is from the UK, they will be treated as a ‘Class Two local supplier’– granting them the same status that is currently only ever given to Indian businesses.  

    Protecting Our Values 

    Throughout the negotiations, we have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, the environment, gender equality, and development. We have protected the NHS, defended the UK’s interests, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. This deal demonstrates our commitment to both workers and businesses, staying true to our values while driving economic growth.

    1. DBT CGE modelling. See Technical Annex

    2. World Economic Outlook Database, October 2024

    3. Projections are calculated using the methodology described in DBT’s Global Trade Outlook, February 2023

    4. Ibid.

    5. The methodology for estimating the value of duties can be found in Annex 5 of the technical annexes accompanying the UK-India FTA Scoping assessment

    6. 2021 England and Wales Census; 2021 NI Census; 2011 Scottish Census

    7. DBT inward investment results 2023 to 2024 (HTML version) – GOV.UK; ; Grant Thornton, Britain meets India 2024; Grant Thornton, India meets Britain tracker: 2023.

    8. This analysis utilises Top 200 Entity data from India’s e-procurement dashboard, for the financial years 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23, which is not exhaustively used by all federal government agencies for all procurements. Therefore, several entities included within India’s market access schedule cannot be included within the analysis. This analysis does not take into account restrictions on access as a result of Make in India, the chapter thresholds and tenders for goods or services not covered by the government procurement chapter.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK concludes trade deal with India

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK concludes trade deal with India

    Multi-billion-pound boost to UK economy with landmark India trade deal to make working people better off

    • Huge economic win for UK as trade deal with India agreed which will deliver for working people and British businesses 

    • Deal will slash Indian tariffs on key products such as whisky, cosmetics and medical devices, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines for UK exports to unleash opportunities for businesses across regions and nations of UK 

    • Delivers on Plan for Change as £4.8 billion added to UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year in the long run under deal 

    The UK and India have today agreed a landmark trade deal which delivers on this government’s core mission of growing the economy, raising living standards, and putting money in people’s pockets. 

    Indian tariffs will be slashed, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines, with 85% of these becoming fully tariff-free within a decade. 

    Whisky and gin tariffs will be halved from 150% to 75% before reducing to 40% by year ten of the deal, while automotive tariffs will go from over 100% to 10% under a quota. 

    Other goods with reduced tariffs, which can open markets and make trade cheaper for businesses and Indian consumers, include cosmetics, aerospace, lamb, medical devices, salmon, electrical machinery, soft drinks, chocolate and biscuits.  

    British shoppers could see cheaper prices and more choice on products including clothes, footwear, and food products including frozen prawns as UK liberalises tariffs. 

    The deal is expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, UK GDP by £4.8 billion and wages by £2.2 billion each year in the long run. 

    UK businesses gain a competitive edge over international competitors when entering India’s enormous market as it gets even bigger, forecasted to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held final talks in London last week after relaunching negotiations only two months ago. Negotiators across both sides have worked around the clock since February to get this deal done, which is the biggest and most economically significant bilateral trade deal the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the best deal India has ever agreed. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    We are now in a new era for trade and the economy. That means going further and faster to strengthen the UK’s economy, putting more money in working people’s pockets.  

    Through this government’s stable and pragmatic leadership, the UK has become an attractive place to do business. Today we have agreed a landmark deal with India – one of the fastest growing economies in the world, which will grow the economy and deliver for British people and business.  

    Strengthening our alliances and reducing trade barriers with economies around the world is part of our Plan for Change to deliver a stronger and more secure economy here at home.   

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    This government’s number one mission is growing the economy as part of our Plan for Change so we can put more money in people’s pockets.  

    By striking a new trade deal with the fastest-growing economy in the world, we are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year and unlocking growth in every corner of the country, from advanced manufacturing in the North East to whisky distilleries in Scotland. 

    In times of global uncertainty, a pragmatic approach to global trade that provides businesses and consumers with stability is more important than ever.

    At least 1.9 million people with Indian heritage call the UK their home and striking this deal will strengthen the vital partnership between our two democracies. 

    The benefits for UK businesses and consumers under this deal are massive, with wins across an array of sectors.  

    Notes to editors 

    Benefits for businesses of all sizes 

    Barriers to trading will be dropped, with India agreeing to reduce tariffs on a whole host of products including whisky, medical devices, advanced machinery, and lamb, making UK exports more competitive. Based on 2022 trade alone, this amounts to India cutting tariffs worth over £400 million when the deal comes into force, which will more than double to around £900 million after 10 years.  

    Exporting to this huge market will be easier than ever before thanks to India agreeing to release goods as quickly as possible after arrival at customs, work with the UK on one streamlined portal for trade and publish customs procedures and laws online in English. In addition, new digital commitments will support electronic contracts and transactions. These changes could particularly support small and medium-sized businesses, making it easier for them to enter the Indian market. 

    Delivering for high-growth sectors 

    High-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy are supported through this deal, including: 

    • Tariffs cut on the UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors from aerospace and automotive, electrical circuits and conductors, and high-end optical products. 

    • The clean energy industry will have brand new, unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market as the country makes the switch to renewable energy and continues to see growing energy demand. 

    • Reduced tariffs on medical devices that take the UK’s complex supply chains into consideration will unleash new opportunities for the UK life sciences sector. 

    • Enhanced copyright protections for the creative sector will give exporters confidence thanks to a commitment that their work will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. 

    • World-class UK services sectors – who export just over £500 billion worldwide will now benefit from market certainty when trading into the growing Indian market. 

    More choice and protections for consumers 

    As bilateral trade grows under this deal, the UK will benefit from the best India has to offer with British shoppers enjoying access to a greater variety of clothes and shoes.  New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent. 

    Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, welcomed the “transformational” deal: 

    The UK-India free trade agreement is a once in a generation deal and a landmark moment for Scotch Whisky exports to the world’s largest whisky market. It shows that the UK government is making significant progress towards achieving its growth mission, and the Scotch Whisky industry looks forward to working with the UK and Indian governments in the months ahead to implement the deal, which would be a big boost to two major global economies during turbulent times. 

    The reduction of the current 150% tariff on Scotch Whisky will be transformational for the industry, and has the potential to increase Scotch Whisky exports to India by £1bn over the next 5 years, creating 1,200 jobs across the UK. It will also give discerning consumers in India far greater choice of brands, as more SME Scotch Whisky producers have the opportunity to enter the market.” 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:  

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India. 

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.” 

    Bill Winters CBE, Group CEO of Standard Chartered and Co-Chair of the UK-India Financial Partnership, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor. We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.   

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics said: 

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network. We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Richard Heald, OBE, UK-India Business Council Chair said: 

    The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) welcomes the agreement of the new Free Trade Agreement between the United Kingdom and India. This marks a significant milestone in the deepening of economic and strategic ties between our two nations.  

    It matters when the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world reach a trade agreement. Such an agreement is illustrative of the positive momentum in the UK-India relationship, the commitment and ambition of both Governments, and the opportunities for greater trade, investment and collaboration between our countries.

    Notes to editors 

    • We have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, gender, and development. We have protected the NHS, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. 

    Data sources for this release include: 

    • FTA economic impacts: DBT Technical Note: The preliminary economic impacts of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement 

    • India forecast to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India is the fastest growing economy in the world: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India and the UK are the fifth and sixth largest economies: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025 

    • 1.9 million people with Indian heritage live in the UK: ONS 2021 Census

    • UK services exports are worth over £500 billion: ONS UK trade February 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Syncfusion® Announces Successful Completion of SOC 2® Type 2 Examination

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Syncfusion®, Inc., the enterprise technology provider of choice, today announced that it has successfully completed a System and Organization Controls (SOC) 2® Type 2 audit examination for its Essential Studio and Bold products. Additionally, the electronic signature platform BoldSign® is now Qualified Electronic Signature (QES)-certified in compliance with European Union (EU) laws.

    “Secure, accurate information is the cornerstone of the prosperity of any organization,” said Daniel Jebaraj, CEO of Syncfusion. “The successful completion of our SOC 2 Type 2 examination reinforces our ongoing commitment to create and maintain a secure operating environment for our clients’ confidential data, based upon industry standards and best practices, now and in the future.”

    Successful SOC 2®Type 2 audit examination

    SOC 2® reports examine controls at a service organization and are conducted within the AICPA’s Reporting on Controls at a Service Organization framework. The SOC 2® Type 2 report provides an understanding of the service organization’s suitability of the design, implementation, and operating effectiveness of its internal controls. Organizations are audited based on the five trust service criteria: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. An organization may select any or all of the trust service criteria applicable to its business; Syncfusion chose to report on all five criteria.

    The independent auditing firm tested Syncfusion’s controls and examined its policies and procedures regarding operational areas like:

    • Cloud security.
    • Network connectivity.
    • Systems development life cycle.
    • Computer operations.
    • Logistical access.
    • Data transmission.
    • Backup and disaster recovery.

    Upon completing the audit, Syncfusion received a Service Auditor’s Report with an opinion demonstrating that its policies, procedures, and infrastructure meet or exceed the stringent SOC 2® criteria. The successful completion of this voluntary examination reflects Syncfusion’s dedication to protecting its customers’ information.

    BoldSign® delivers fully QES-compliant signatures

    A QES offers a valid, legally binding digital signature backed by the EU’s strict security guardrails as laid out in electronic IDentification, Authentication and trust Services (eIDAS) regulations. A QES-compliant signature has the same legal power as a handwritten one across all EU countries. Additionally, BoldSign has GDPR-compliant, EU-based data centers, seamless QES identity verification, multilingual support, and a detailed audit trail for each QES-signed document. To learn more about BoldSign, QES, and other EU-specific features, visit https://boldsign.com/qes.

    About Syncfusion®, Inc.
    Headquartered in the technology hub of Research Triangle Park, N.C., Syncfusion, Inc.® delivers an award-winning ecosystem of developer control suites, embeddable BI platforms, and business software. Syncfusion was founded in 2001 with a single software component and a mission to support businesses of all sizes—from individual developers and start-ups to Fortune 500 enterprises. Though its pilot product, the Essential Studio® suite, has grown to over 1,900 developer controls, its mission remains the same. With offices in the U.S., India, and Kenya, Syncfusion prioritizes the customer experience by providing feature-rich solutions to help developers and enterprises solve complex problems, save money, and build high-performance, robust applications.

    Contact: Brittany Kearns
    Phone: 919-270-8054
    Email: brittany@crossroadsb2b.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK signs trade deal with India

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK signs trade deal with India

    Multi-billion-pound boost to UK economy with landmark India trade deal to make working people better off

    • Huge economic win for UK as trade deal with India agreed which will deliver for working people and British businesses 

    • Deal will slash Indian tariffs on key products such as whisky, cosmetics and medical devices, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines for UK exports to unleash opportunities for businesses across regions and nations of UK 

    • Delivers on Plan for Change as £4.8 billion added to UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year in the long run under deal 

    The UK and India have today agreed a landmark trade deal which delivers on this government’s core mission of growing the economy, raising living standards, and putting money in people’s pockets. 

    Indian tariffs will be slashed, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines, with 85% of these becoming fully tariff-free within a decade. 

    Whisky and gin tariffs will be halved from 150% to 75% before reducing to 40% by year ten of the deal, while automotive tariffs will go from over 100% to 10% under a quota. 

    Other goods with reduced tariffs, which can open markets and make trade cheaper for businesses and Indian consumers, include cosmetics, aerospace, lamb, medical devices, salmon, electrical machinery, soft drinks, chocolate and biscuits.  

    British shoppers could see cheaper prices and more choice on products including clothes, footwear, and food products including frozen prawns as UK liberalises tariffs. 

    The deal is expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, UK GDP by £4.8 billion and wages by £2.2 billion each year in the long run. 

    UK businesses gain a competitive edge over international competitors when entering India’s enormous market as it gets even bigger, forecasted to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held final talks in London last week after relaunching negotiations only two months ago. Negotiators across both sides have worked around the clock since February to get this deal done, which is the biggest and most economically significant bilateral trade deal the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the best deal India has ever agreed. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    We are now in a new era for trade and the economy. That means going further and faster to strengthen the UK’s economy, putting more money in working people’s pockets.  

    Through this government’s stable and pragmatic leadership, the UK has become an attractive place to do business. Today we have agreed a landmark deal with India – one of the fastest growing economies in the world, which will grow the economy and deliver for British people and business.  

    Strengthening our alliances and reducing trade barriers with economies around the world is part of our Plan for Change to deliver a stronger and more secure economy here at home.   

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    This government’s number one mission is growing the economy as part of our Plan for Change so we can put more money in people’s pockets.  

    By striking a new trade deal with the fastest-growing economy in the world, we are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year and unlocking growth in every corner of the country, from advanced manufacturing in the North East to whisky distilleries in Scotland. 

    In times of global uncertainty, a pragmatic approach to global trade that provides businesses and consumers with stability is more important than ever.

    At least 1.9 million people with Indian heritage call the UK their home and striking this deal will strengthen the vital partnership between our two democracies. 

    The benefits for UK businesses and consumers under this deal are massive, with wins across an array of sectors.  

    Notes to editors 

    Benefits for businesses of all sizes 

    Barriers to trading will be dropped, with India agreeing to reduce tariffs on a whole host of products including whisky, medical devices, advanced machinery, and lamb, making UK exports more competitive. Based on 2022 trade alone, this amounts to India cutting tariffs worth over £400 million when the deal comes into force, which will more than double to around £900 million after 10 years.  

    Exporting to this huge market will be easier than ever before thanks to India agreeing to release goods as quickly as possible after arrival at customs, work with the UK on one streamlined portal for trade and publish customs procedures and laws online in English. In addition, new digital commitments will support electronic contracts and transactions. These changes could particularly support small and medium-sized businesses, making it easier for them to enter the Indian market. 

    Delivering for high-growth sectors 

    High-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy are supported through this deal, including: 

    • Tariffs cut on the UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors from aerospace and automotive, electrical circuits and conductors, and high-end optical products. 

    • The clean energy industry will have brand new, unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market as the country makes the switch to renewable energy and continues to see growing energy demand. 

    • Reduced tariffs on medical devices that take the UK’s complex supply chains into consideration will unleash new opportunities for the UK life sciences sector. 

    • Enhanced copyright protections for the creative sector will give exporters confidence thanks to a commitment that their work will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. 

    • World-class UK services sectors – who export just over £500 billion worldwide will now benefit from market certainty when trading into the growing Indian market. 

    More choice and protections for consumers 

    As bilateral trade grows under this deal, the UK will benefit from the best India has to offer with British shoppers enjoying access to a greater variety of clothes and shoes.  New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent. 

    Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, welcomed the “transformational” deal: 

    The UK-India free trade agreement is a once in a generation deal and a landmark moment for Scotch Whisky exports to the world’s largest whisky market. It shows that the UK government is making significant progress towards achieving its growth mission, and the Scotch Whisky industry looks forward to working with the UK and Indian governments in the months ahead to implement the deal, which would be a big boost to two major global economies during turbulent times. 

    The reduction of the current 150% tariff on Scotch Whisky will be transformational for the industry, and has the potential to increase Scotch Whisky exports to India by £1bn over the next 5 years, creating 1,200 jobs across the UK. It will also give discerning consumers in India far greater choice of brands, as more SME Scotch Whisky producers have the opportunity to enter the market.” 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:  

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India. 

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.” 

    Bill Winters CBE, Group CEO of Standard Chartered and Co-Chair of the UK-India Financial Partnership, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor. We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.   

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics said: 

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network. We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Richard Heald, OBE, UK-India Business Council Chair said: 

    The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) welcomes the agreement of the new Free Trade Agreement between the United Kingdom and India. This marks a significant milestone in the deepening of economic and strategic ties between our two nations.  

    It matters when the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world reach a trade agreement. Such an agreement is illustrative of the positive momentum in the UK-India relationship, the commitment and ambition of both Governments, and the opportunities for greater trade, investment and collaboration between our countries.

    Notes to editors 

    • We have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, gender, and development. We have protected the NHS, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. 

    Data sources for this release include: 

    • FTA economic impacts: [DBT Technical Note(https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-india-free-trade-agreement-technical-note)]: The preliminary economic impacts of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement 

    • India forecast to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India is the fastest growing economy in the world: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India and the UK are the fifth and sixth largest economies: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025 

    • 1.9 million people with Indian heritage live in the UK: ONS 2021 Census

    • UK services exports are worth over £500 billion: ONS UK trade February 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Prime Minister Modi of India: 6 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM call with Prime Minister Modi of India: 6 May 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi today.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi today. 

    The leaders began by celebrating the landmark UK-India Free Trade Agreement announced today – a deal which will add billions to the UK economy, boost wages and deliver on this government’s Plan for Change. 

    In a huge economic win for the UK, delivering for working people and British businesses, the Prime Minister underscored the need to go further and faster to get things done, to secure and renew our country.

    Through pragmatism and purpose, the leaders noted that this historic deal is the biggest the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the most ambitious India has ever done. Prime Minister Modi also thanked the Prime Minister for his decisive leadership in getting the deal over the line. 

    Turning to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir last month, the Prime Minister reiterated his deep condolences at the tragic and senseless loss of life. 

    Finally, Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to India, which the Prime Minister was pleased to accept and said he looked forward to visiting India at the earliest opportunity.

    They looked forward to speaking soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel Light Beer Expands into Florida with North Florida Sales Distribution Agreement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nashville, TN, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is proud to announce its newest distribution agreement with North Florida Sales (nfsinfo.com), a premier beverage distributor serving the Northeast Florida market. This collaboration and expansion into Florida is another bold step in American Rebel’s mission to bring high-quality, American-made beer to hardworking, freedom-loving patriots across the Sunshine State.

    “We believe in the American dream – hard work, perseverance, and celebrating the freedoms that make this country great,” said Todd Porter, President of American Rebel Beverage. “Partnering with North Florida Sales allows us to share that spirit with more people in Florida. Their commitment to excellence, combined with their deep-rooted relationships in the market, makes them the perfect ally in our mission to expand American Rebel’s presence nationwide.”

    Gentry Pelham, President and Owner of North Florida Sales, echoed that enthusiasm, stating: “North Florida Sales is extremely excited for the opportunity to partner up with American Rebel. We can’t wait to introduce this amazing product to the Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Lake City markets.”

    North Florida Sales has long been recognized for its dedication to delivering quality beverages while building lasting partnerships with retailers and consumers. With an extensive network and a passion for serving their communities, they will help bring American Rebel Light Beer to even more bars, restaurants, and stores across Florida.

    “We’re very excited to be expanding into Florda,” said American Rebel CEO Andy Ross. “American Rebel Beer sponsored the Scag Pro Superstar Shootout this past February at the Bradenton Motorsports Park and I’ve done television interviews in Tampa, West Palm Beach and Miami and performed in Florida several times. Look out Florida, America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer is coming. Florida is going to be a strong state for us and I couldn’t be more proud to get to work with the great team at North Florida Sales.”

    As American Rebel Beverage continues its rapid growth, the brand remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting patriotic values and celebrating the American spirit. Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has earned loyal consumers across Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Indiana, Mississippi and now Florida – proving that there’s nothing more American than great beer and a good time.

    American Rebel Light is a proudly American-made premium domestic light lager, delivering a crisp, clean, and bold taste with a lighter feel. Crafted with all-natural ingredients and NO added sweeteners like corn or rice, it offers a refreshing balance of flavor with 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% ABV per 12 oz serving. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a tailgate, or a weekend at the racetrack, American Rebel Light is brewed for the bold, the free, and the proud.

    For more information about American Rebel Light and its new distribution agremeent with North Florida Sales, follow us on social media @AmericanRebelBeer or on the web at americanrebelbeer.com.

    About American Rebel Light

    American Rebel Light isn’t just a beer – it’s a statement. A toast to freedom, a salute to hard-working Americans, and a bold declaration of our patriotic values. As America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer, Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a premium domestic light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

    American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers. For more information follow American Rebel Beer on all social media platforms (@americanrebelbeer).

    About North Florida Sales

    North Florida Sales (NFS) is a locally owned and operated company and covers all or part of 11 counties in Florida. These counties include Duval, Nassau, St. John’s, Putnam, Clay, Bradford, Union, Baker, Columbia, Hamilton and Suwannee. Started in 1995, NFS strives to be a leader in sales and service in the beverage industry in Jacksonville and Lake City, FL. NFS’s mission is to provide the highest quality customer service on a consistent basis, while ensuring the availability of the freshest and cleanest product possible. For more information on North Florida Sales, go to nfsinfo.com.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebel.com and americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    info@americanrebel.com
     ir@americanrebel.com

    Media Contact:
    Matt Sheldon
    Matt@PrecisionPR.co

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of our strategic planning, marketing outreach efforts, actual placement timing and availability of American Rebel Beer, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, March 2025

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $140.5 billion in March, up $17.3 billion from $123.2 billion in February, revised.

    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services Deficit
    Deficit: $140.5 Billion +14.0%°
    Exports: $278.5 Billion +0.2%°
    Imports: $419.0 Billion +4.4%°

    Next release: Thursday, June 5, 2025

    (°) Statistical significance is not applicable or not measurable. Data adjusted for seasonality but not price changes

    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis; U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, May 6, 2025

    Exports, Imports, and Balance (exhibit 1)

    March exports were $278.5 billion, $0.5 billion more than February exports. March imports were $419.0 billion, $17.8 billion more than February imports.

    The March increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $16.5 billion to $163.5 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of $0.8 billion to $23.0 billion.

    Year-to-date, the goods and services deficit increased $189.6 billion, or 92.6 percent, from the same period in 2024. Exports increased $41.1 billion or 5.2 percent. Imports increased $230.7 billion or 23.3 percent.

    Three-Month Moving Averages (exhibit 2)

    The average goods and services deficit increased $14.1 billion to $131.4 billion for the three months ending in March.

    • Average exports increased $4.0 billion to $275.7 billion in March.
    • Average imports increased $18.1 billion to $407.1 billion in March.

    Year-over-year, the average goods and services deficit increased $63.2 billion from the three months ending in March 2024.

    • Average exports increased $13.7 billion from March 2024.
    • Average imports increased $76.9 billion from March 2024.

    Exports (exhibits 3, 6, and 7)

    Exports of goods increased $1.3 billion to $183.2 billion in March.

      Exports of goods on a Census basis increased $2.5 billion.

    • Industrial supplies and materials increased $2.2 billion.
      • Natural gas increased $0.8 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold increased $0.7 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $1.2 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $0.9 billion.
    • Capital goods decreased $1.5 billion.
      • Civilian aircraft decreased $1.8 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $0.7 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $1.2 billion.

    Exports of services decreased $0.9 billion to $95.2 billion in March.

    • Travel decreased $1.3 billion.
    • Transport increased $0.3 billion.
    • Financial services increased $0.2 billion.

    Imports (exhibits 4, 6, and 8)

    Imports of goods increased $17.8 billion to $346.8 billion in March.

      Imports of goods on a Census basis increased $17.8 billion.

    • Consumer goods increased $22.5 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $20.9 billion.
    • Capital goods increased $3.7 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $2.0 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $2.6 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $2.1 billion.
    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $10.7 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes decreased $10.3 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold decreased $1.8 billion.
      • Crude oil decreased $1.2 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased less than $0.1 billion.

    Imports of services decreased $0.1 billion to $72.2 billion in March.

    • Travel decreased $0.4 billion.
    • Transport increased $0.2 billion.

    Real Goods in 2017 Dollars – Census Basis (exhibit 11)

    The real goods deficit increased $14.0 billion, or 10.2 percent, to $150.9 billion in March, compared to a 10.3 percent increase in the nominal deficit.

    • Real exports of goods increased $2.4 billion, or 1.6 percent, to $149.7 billion, compared to a 1.4 percent increase in nominal exports.
    • Real imports of goods increased $16.4 billion, or 5.8 percent, to $300.6 billion, compared to a 5.5 percent increase in nominal imports.

    Revisions

    Revisions to February exports

    • Exports of goods were revised down less than $0.1 billion.
    • Exports of services were revised down $0.4 billion.

    Revisions to February imports

    • Imports of goods were revised up less than $0.1 billion.
    • Imports of services were revised up $0.1 billion.

    Goods by Selected Countries and Areas: Monthly – Census Basis (exhibit 19)

    The March figures show surpluses, in billions of dollars, with Netherlands ($4.5), South and Central America ($3.2), Hong Kong ($1.9), United Kingdom ($1.2), Singapore ($0.5), Brazil ($0.5), and Saudi Arabia ($0.2). Deficits were recorded, in billions of dollars, with European Union ($48.3), Ireland ($29.3), China ($24.8), Mexico ($16.8), Switzerland ($14.7), Vietnam ($14.1), Taiwan ($8.7), India ($7.7), Germany ($7.5), South Korea ($6.8), Japan ($5.8), Canada ($4.9), Italy ($4.4), France ($3.9), Malaysia ($3.2), Australia ($1.0), Israel ($1.0), and Belgium ($0.1).

    • The deficit with Ireland increased $15.3 billion to $29.3 billion in March. Exports increased $0.1 billion to $1.4 billion and imports increased $15.5 billion to $30.7 billion.
    • The deficit with France increased $2.4 billion to $3.9 billion in March. Exports increased $0.1 billion to $4.0 billion and imports increased $2.6 billion to $7.9 billion.
    • The deficit with Switzerland decreased $4.1 billion to $14.7 billion in March. Exports increased $1.1 billion to $3.5 billion and imports decreased $3.0 billion to $18.3 billion.

    All statistics referenced are seasonally adjusted; statistics are on a balance of payments basis unless otherwise specified. Additional statistics, including not seasonally adjusted statistics and details for goods on a Census basis, are available in exhibits 1-20b of this release. For information on data sources, definitions, and revision procedures, see the explanatory notes in this release. The full release can be found at www.census.gov/foreign-trade/Press-Release/current_press_release/index.html or www.bea.gov/data/intl-trade-investment/international-trade-goods-and-services. The full schedule is available in the Census Bureau’s Economic Briefing Room at www.census.gov/economic-indicators/ or on BEA’s website at www.bea.gov/news/schedule.

    Next release: June 5, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, April 2025

    Notice

    Country Name Changes

    With this release of the “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services” report, references to “Congo (Brazzaville)” and “Congo (Kinshasa)” are replaced with “Congo” and “Democratic Republic of the Congo,” respectively, to reflect the countries’ recent name changes. These changes also align with the names recognized by the U.S. Department of State and the International Organization for Standardization.

    Impact of Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) Release of CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM)

    The CBSA introduced a new accounting system (CARM) on October 21, 2024. As a result, importers in Canada have experienced delays in filing shipment information. These delays affected the compilation of statistics on U.S. exports of goods to Canada for September 2024 through February 2025, which are derived from data compiled by Canada through the United States – Canada Data Exchange. A dollar estimate of the filing backlog is included in estimates for late receipts and, following the U.S. Census Bureau’s customary practice for late receipt estimates, is included in the export end-use category “Other goods” as well as in exports to Canada. This estimate will be replaced with the actual transactions reported by the Harmonized System classification in June 2025 with the release of “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, Annual Revision.” Until then, please refer to the supplemental spreadsheet “CARM Exports to Canada Corrections,” which provides a breakdown of the late receipts by 1-digit end-use category for statistics through 2024. This spreadsheet will be updated as late export transactions are received to reflect reassignments from the initial “Other goods” category to the appropriate 1-digit end-use category. Any 2025 impacts will be revised in June 2026.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the Census Bureau, Economic Indicators Division, International Trade Macro Analysis Branch, on 800-549-0595, option 4, or at eid.international.trade.data@census.gov.

    Upcoming Updates to Goods and Services

    With the releases of the “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services” report (FT-900) and the FT-900 Annual Revision on June 5, 2025, statistics on trade in goods, on both a Census basis and a balance of payments (BOP) basis, will be revised beginning with 2020 and statistics on trade in services will be revised beginning with 2018. The revised statistics for goods on a BOP basis and for services will also be included in the “U.S. International Transactions, 1st Quarter 2025 and Annual Update” report and in the international transactions interactive database, both to be released by BEA on June 24, 2025.

    Revised statistics on trade in goods will reflect:

    • Corrections and adjustments to previously published not seasonally adjusted statistics for goods on a Census basis.
    • End-use reclassifications of several commodities.
    • Recalculated seasonal and trading-day adjustments.
    • Newly available and revised source data on BOP adjustments, which are adjustments that BEA applies to goods on a Census basis to convert them to a BOP basis. See the “Goods (balance of payments basis)” section in the explanatory notes for more information.

    Revised statistics on trade in services will reflect:

    • Newly available and revised source data, primarily from BEA surveys of international services.
    • Corrections and adjustments to previously published not seasonally adjusted statistics.
    • Recalculated seasonal adjustments.
    • Revised temporal distributions of quarterly source data to monthly statistics. See the “Services” section in the explanatory notes for more information.

    For more information, see “Preview of the 2025 Annual Update of the International Economic Accounts” in the Survey of Current Business.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the Census Bureau, Economic Indicators Division, International Trade Macro Analysis Branch, on (800) 549-0595, option 4, or at eid.international.trade.data@census.gov or BEA, Balance of Payments Division, at InternationalAccounts@bea.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How a community-focused vision for net zero can revive local economies

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Max Lacey-Barnacle, Senior Research Fellow, Science Policy Research Unit, University of Sussex

    Kampan/Shutterstock

    Across the world, the transition to a green economy is under threat. Growing antipathy towards the costs of tackling climate change, stoked especially by right-wing populists, undermines ambitions to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

    In the UK, leader of the opposition Kemi Badenoch recently described achieving net zero by 2050 as “impossible”, stating that it would bankrupt the country. Reform, a major rival to the right of Badenoch’s Conservative party want to scrap the UK’s net zero targets altogether.

    A new vision of net zero is urgently needed. To help fund the UK’s transition to a green economy, the UK government seeks to attract private investment from international corporations that are not based in the UK.

    The Indian company Tata Group is investing £4 billion in eletric vehicles (EVs) and battery production in the UK. Danish company Orsted has invested £15 billion in UK offshore windfarms in the last decade. French company EDF Energy has invested £4.5 billion in net zero technologies and infrastructure in the UK.

    This approach comes with considerable risks. Profits can be extracted out of local economies, which benefits the shareholders of international corporations, not UK businesses.

    Ownership can also change between private entities and move even further afield. Last year, Orsted sold stakes in four UK offshore wind farms to a Canadian investment company.

    UCL climate scientist Mark Maslin explains net zero.

    But there’s an alternative that directly strengthens the resilience of the UK’s economy. Community wealth building is a model of economic development that ensures any profits generated from new green industries is recirculated within the local economy.

    To make this happen, communities need support from so-called “anchor institutions”. These are large organisations that are “anchored” to their local economy and cannot relocate, because their ownership structure is tied to a particular location. Think universities, hospitals or local government institutions.

    Within this approach, anchor institutions procure goods and services from nearby suppliers, so they circulate money locally and strengthen regional supply chains.

    This concept originated over a decade ago in the US. It’s since been applied in Canada, Australia, Ireland and the Netherlands.

    For the past four years, I’ve been exploring how community wealth building is becoming embedded in the UK’s fast-growing green economy.

    UK anchors and the green economy

    In north-west England, Preston city council retained the procurement spend of anchor institutions located in Preston city to the tune of £112.3 million in 2020 – £74 million more than in 2012/13.

    In Oldham in northern England, the council supported the development of community-led energy plans in two neighbourhoods, Sholver and Westwood. The plans outlined what a decarbonised heat, electricity and transport system would look like for each area. The council launched a website to share energy efficiency advice. The council also helped to set up two local community energy projects.

    Oldham Community Power installed solar panels on five primary schools and a community building to reduce their energy bills. Saddleworth Community Hydro have used excess profits from the sale of renewable electricity in 2023 to fund £58,000 worth of local sustainability projects.

    Some local councils in the UK are adopting a community wealth building approach.
    witsarut sakorn/Shutterstock

    The council in Lewes in southern England have committed to using community wealth building to transition towards net zero. Hundreds of houses have been retrofitted to increase their energy efficiency, with retrofit contracts arranged with local companies. EVs are being used to collect food waste. New sustainable housing is being built by local tradespeople using locally sourced materials wherever possible.

    The Lewes Climate Hub hosts community events and green business workshops in a council-owned property. Procurement spend by local anchor institutions has also doubled from £5m in 2020 to £10m in 2024.

    In North Ayrshire, Scotland, two municipally owned solar PV farms on council-owned land have generated a £13 million budget surplus. This has been redirected towards addressing fuel poverty by making low-income homes more energy efficient. The council’s new green jobs fund has supported over £1.14 million of investment into 65 businesses to enable a range of sustainability related measures.

    Encouragingly, more plans to bring together community wealth building and net zero continue to emerge. In London, partnerships between anchor institutions and community energy organisations could be integral to developing 1,000 community energy projects across the capital by 2030.

    Successful scale-up of community wealth building will require strong leadership, political commitments and supporting strategies that align with the green economy. Already, some initiatives are beginning to generate wealth through the green economy and keeping it in local communities, rather than ownership and profits going to distant corporations.

    To counter a rising opposition to net zero in the UK, prioritising community-focused visions that revive local economies will be vital.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Max Lacey-Barnacle receives funding from The British Academy.

    – ref. How a community-focused vision for net zero can revive local economies – https://theconversation.com/how-a-community-focused-vision-for-net-zero-can-revive-local-economies-252955

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump likes to know where his suits come from. His tariffs could now upend the world’s fashion supply chains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arooj Rashid, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Nottingham Trent University

    Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

    US president Donald Trump has a particular look. Sharp navy suits, overly long ties and crisp white shirts, always structured to command attention. It’s a power uniform rooted in a very traditional idea of masculine elegance. Trump wants it to look expensive, meticulously crafted, consistent, and entirely his own.

    Behind the populist slogans and “Buy American” rhetoric, this president has long embraced symbols of global luxury. While he’s worn American tailoring from Brooklyn’s Martin Greenfield – a craftsman who has dressed everyone from Barack Obama to Colin Powell – he has also been a longstanding customer of Brioni, an exclusive Italian brand of tailored clothing.

    So, while campaigning for American-made goods Trump has for years enjoyed the prestige of the “Made in Italy” tag, and the luxurious connotations it brings to menswear.

    But his trade policies have done the opposite for the global fashion industry. By threatening massive trade tariffs on countries like China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, he has potentially created chaos for both the industry and consumers.

    Traditionally, what’s known as “country of origin” has been represented by the “made in” label, a key branding tool that can shape consumer perceptions of product quality and other attributes. However, as globalisation has led to the outsourcing of design, materials and production, the definition has become increasingly complex.

    “Designed in” and “country of brand origin” have come to define prestigious product qualities, while country image is used to reflect perceptions of a nation and its products. For example, “designed in Italy” often evokes craftsmanship and luxury in fashion goods. Similarly, Germany has a historical reputation for excellence in producing cars. And “Japanese brand origin” is associated with cutting-edge technology and reliability, particularly in electronics and vehicles.

    Two decades ago, as production costs in the US and Europe mounted, clothing production moved to Asia. While China has remained an important supplier, trade tensions saw production move to countries including Vietnam, India and Bangladesh in the early mid-2010s. But with the threat of new tariffs on these countries, brands are scrambling again.

    This time they have far fewer alternatives. And for companies that rely on the storytelling behind where a garment is made, this isn’t just a supply chain headache. It’s an identity crisis.

    ‘Made in Italy’ – like Trump’s Brioni suits – conveys more than just the country of manufacture.
    Northfoto/Shutterstock

    In fashion, a garment’s origin is not merely a logistical detail – it’s part of its identity. Labels like “made in Italy”, “made in India” or “made in Bangladesh” carry different connotations. These could be luxury and craftsmanship – embroidery skills, for example – or affordability at scale.

    Over time, brands have cultivated these country associations as part of their marketing strategies, shaping consumer perception and trust. The result is a strategic decision for fashion companies, which must now consider cost and efficiency and how changing suppliers might affect their brand’s perceived values and identity.

    For example, brands like H&M and Levi Strauss & Co. have promoted their ethical sourcing in India or partnerships in Pakistan due to their expertise. But now they risk being taxed extensively. So what is the solution?

    The impact on consumers

    The growing risk of new trade rules and tariffs is making it harder for countries that supply fashion goods to stay competitive.

    First, brands must re-assess globalisation of the fashion industry and develop alternative supply chains. While a quick shift may be possible for simpler fashion products, relocating production for more complex or premium goods is usually a long-term investment. As a result, brands will be investigating country images that are perceived to be trusted and trustworthy as trading partners.

    But one unexpected outcome of these policies may be the return of European production and the emergence of “safe” sourcing locations in countries less exposed to trading restrictions. This could be Portugal and Romania for mid-market clothing, and Italy for high-end fashion goods. These would be more predictable and offer a globally recognised brand image.

    Heritage clothing brand Barbour still manufactures some of its lines in the UK.
    Robert Way/Shutterstock

    For some companies, shifting production to Italy will allow them to maintain product prestige while avoiding some of the eye-watering tariffs threatened for some Asian countries. Meanwhile others may look to move back to the UK because of its association with younger, niche markets.

    This won’t necessarily make clothing cheaper for consumers. It does though offer a level of reassurance, especially for higher-end or mid-market labels looking to preserve their image amid instability.

    Trump’s own affinity for Brioni reflects this implicit value. Though his public rhetoric prioritised American manufacturing, his choice of a luxury Italian tailor speaks to a broader truth: country image matters. And in fashion, it can be everything.

    The consequences of these trade policies are now visible across the fashion ecosystem. For example, American brands like Everlane and Pact are built around affordability and transparency. They rely on production in south or south-east Asia, and now face the challenge of rising costs.

    Larger companies will be rethinking pricing strategies, renegotiating contracts or halting expansion in regions hardest hit by tariffs.

    For consumers, this could mean higher prices and reduced variety. The label inside a garment now tells a more complex story – not only of where it was made but also of the political and economic forces shaping global trade.

    Even if these tariffs are eventually reduced or reversed, the disruption they have caused has already left a mark. They have redefined the meaning and importance of country-of-origin labels, exposed the fragility of global supply chains, and placed new pressure on brands to balance ethics, economics and image in a volatile environment. In fashion, where identity is crafted through fabric and narrative, the story behind the label has never mattered more.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Trump likes to know where his suits come from. His tariffs could now upend the world’s fashion supply chains – https://theconversation.com/trump-likes-to-know-where-his-suits-come-from-his-tariffs-could-now-upend-the-worlds-fashion-supply-chains-255337

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Deccan Merchants Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated April 25, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹2.00 lakh (Rupees Two Lakh only) on The Deccan Merchants Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Loans and advances to directors, their relatives, and firms/concerns in which they are interested’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had sanctioned director related loans.

    This action is based on the deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/268

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Hindusthan Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated April 25, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹3.00 lakh (Rupees Three Lakh only) on The Hindusthan Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Maintenance of Deposit Accounts – Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had levied penal charges for non-maintenance of minimum balance in savings bank account, without notifying the customers by SMS / email / letter, etc.

    This action is based on the deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/267

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Siddheshwar Urban Co-operative Bank Maryadit, Sillod, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated May 02, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹50,000/- (Rupees Fifty Thousand only) on Siddheshwar Urban Co-operative Bank Maryadit, Sillod, Aurangabad, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Placement of Deposits with Other Banks by Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks (UCBs)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had breached prudential inter-bank (gross) exposure limit.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/266

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Pusad Urban Cooperative Bank Limited, Pusad, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated May 02, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹7.50 lakh (Rupees Seven Lakh Fifty Thousand only) on The Pusad Urban Cooperative Bank Limited, Pusad, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Income Recognition, Asset Classification, Provisioning and Other Related Matters – UCBs’, ‘Co-operative Banks- Interest Rates on Deposits’, and specific directions issued by RBI under ‘Supervisory Action Framework (SAF)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the bank were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had:

    1. regularised Non-Performing Accounts (NPAs) without repayment through genuine sources;

    2. opened certain savings deposit accounts in the name of ineligible entities; and

    3. offered higher interest rates on deposits than those offered by the State Bank of India, in non-adherence to directions under SAF.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/265

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NMCG Approves Key Projects for Ganga Rejuvenation via ecosystem restoration in 62nd Executive Committee Meeting

    Source: Government of India

    NMCG Approves Key Projects for Ganga Rejuvenation via ecosystem restoration in 62nd Executive Committee Meeting

    The meeting chaired by Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director-General, NMCG, focuses on sustainability in river rejuvenation

    Namami Gange program has been recognised as one of the Top Ten, World Restoration Flagship initiatives by UN Decade (UNEP&FAO)

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 3:48PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant push towards holistic river and environmental rejuvenation, the 62nd Executive Committee (EC) Meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), chaired by Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director-General, NMCG, focused on sustainability in river rejuvenation. Conservation of critical wetlands and promoting the reuse of treated wastewater through city specific reuse plans and were deliberated in the meeting. The Committee approved projects that align with the mission’s objectives of ecosystem restoration across the Ganga basin. It may be noted that Namami Gange program has been recognised as one of the Top TEN, World Restoration Flagship initiatives by UN Decade (UNEP&FAO)

    In another important development, the EC gave the green light to the “Conserving and Sustainably Managing NathmalpurBhagad (Wetland) in Bhojpur District, Bihar” project, with an estimated cost of ₹3.51 crore. The project is the fifth wetland being undertaken under NGP. It aims to establish an effective management arrangement for NathmalpurBhagad. So far, under Namami Gange conservation of 4 wetlands have been already sanctioned at:

    1. KalewadaJheel, Muzaffarnagar, UP
    2. Namiya Dah Jheel,Prayagraj, UP
    3. Reoti Dah Wetland, Ballia, UP
    4. Udhwa Lake (Ramsar Site) Sahibganj, Jharkhand

    It focuses on integrating biodiversity and ecosystem service values into river basin conservation and developmental planning. The project proposes a dual approach with interventions at the sub-basin (Ghaghara, Gomti & Sone confluence) and site levels (NathmalpurBhagad), including activities such as wetland delineation, hydrological regime enhancement, species and habitat conservation, ecological assessment, risk evaluation, capacity building, communication and outreach, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the wetland ecosystem.

    Nathmalpur Wetland

     

    The EC also approved funding of ₹34.50 lakh for the “Capacity Building Initiatives for making water-sensitive cities in the Ganga Basin” project for the preparation of City Plans and training on the reuse of treated wastewater for Agra and Prayagraj Districts in Uttar Pradesh. The project aims at preparation of city level reuse plan aligned to the National Framework for Safe Reuse of Treated Water (SRTW) developed by NMCG.

     

    Nathmalpur Wetland

    These project approvals reaffirm NMCG’s commitment to integrated water management and environmental restoration. As the Mission continues to evolve, such strategic decisions will play a pivotal role in achieving the vision of a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable river ecosystem for future generations.

    The meeting was attended by Sh. Mahabir Prasad, Joint Secretary and Financial Advisor of Ministry of Power, (additional charge) River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti; Sh. Nalin Srivastava, Deputy Director General of NMCG; Sh. Anoop Kumar Srivastava, Executive Director (Technical); Sh. Brijendra Swaroop, Executive Director (Projects) Sh. S.P. Vashistha, Executive Director (Administration); Sh. Bhaskar Dasgupta, Executive Director (Finance); Sh. Prabhash Kumar, Additional Project Director of Uttar Pradesh SMCG and Sh. S. Chandrasekhar, I.F.S., Chief Conservator of Forest -cum- State Nodal Officer, Environment & Climate Change, Bihar.

    ***

    Dhanya Sanal K

    (Release ID: 2127245) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Institute of Foreign Trade receives approval to establish off-campus centre at GIFT City, Gujarat

    Source: Government of India

    Indian Institute of Foreign Trade receives approval to establish off-campus centre at GIFT City, Gujarat

    Move aligns with NEP 2020; will offer flagship MBA (International Business) and promote trade research

    IIFT GIFT City centre to strengthen India’s trade education ecosystem and support export-led growth

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 10:37AM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Education, Government of India, has approved the establishment of an off-campus centre of the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), New Delhi, at GIFT City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The centre will be set up in accordance with the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2023.

    The approval under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, comes after IIFT’s successful compliance with the conditions laid out in the Letter of Intent (LoI) issued in January 2025. These included submission of a development roadmap to establish a multidisciplinary institution with over 1,000 students, availability of qualified faculty, detailed academic programmes, plans for a permanent campus, and creation of a state-of-the-art library.

    Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, congratulated IIFT on receiving the approval, stating: “Heartiest congratulations to @IIFT_Official on getting approval to open its new off-campus centre in @GIFTCity_, India’s global financial hub. This paves the way for training talent in the institute’s flagship programme, MBA (International Business), besides short-term training programmes and research in the area of International Trade.”

    The upcoming GIFT City campus will be located on the 16th and 17th floors of GIFT Tower 2. It will offer IIFT’s flagship MBA (International Business) programme, along with specialised short-term training courses and research in international trade and related fields.

    The initiative aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to promote multidisciplinary learning and expand access to high-quality education.

    Established in 1963 under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, IIFT is a premier institution dedicated to capacity building in international trade. It was declared a Deemed to be University in 2002, holds an A+ grade from NAAC, and is accredited by AACSB, making it part of a select group of globally recognised business schools.

    The GIFT City campus is expected to significantly contribute to India’s trade education ecosystem and support the nation’s aspiration of becoming a global export powerhouse.

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    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2127199) Visitor Counter : 14

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulates Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia on his historic second term

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulates Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia on his historic second term

    The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP)

    They agreed to remain in touch and looked forward to their next meeting

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 2:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with The Hon Anthony Albanese today and congratulated him on his historic re-election as the 32nd Prime Minister of Australia. 

    The Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) between the two countries. They noted that in its five years, the CSP has seen robust cooperation developing across a diverse range of sectors. They stressed on the role played by the vibrant Indian origin diaspora in cementing bilateral ties. 

    The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global matters of mutual interest and reiterated their commitment to working together in promoting a free, open, stable, rules-based and prosperous Indo-Pacific. 

    Prime Minister invited PM Albanese to visit India including for the Annual Summit and the QUAD Summit to be hosted in India later in the year. The leaders agreed to remain in touch.

     

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    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2127230) Visitor Counter : 96

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Inaugurates Bharat Telecom 2025; Highlights India’s Export Potential

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Inaugurates Bharat Telecom 2025; Highlights India’s Export Potential

    India Showcases Global Telecom Ambitions at Bharat Telecom 2025

    Minister Scindia: “We’re not just connecting villages; we’re connecting futures. Every tower we raise, every byte we transmit, brings 1.4 billion people closer to opportunity”

     “Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bold vision and unwavering resolve have transformed India from a digital follower into a global digital leader — turning aspirations into infrastructure, and policy into progress.” Minister Scindia

    Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar:  “Today, India stands ready not merely as a market or consumer but as a creator, partner and trusted provider of world-class telecom solutions. The narrative has changed from a historical made-for-India to made-by-India.”

    More than 130 foreign delegates from over 35 countries participate

    Over 80 leading Indian Telecom and ICT companies showcased innovative products and solutions across multiple domains

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 1:41PM by PIB Delhi

    “Bharat Telecom is not just a conference — it is a declaration of India’s intent to shape the future of global connectivity through innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth.” said Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, while inaugurating Bharat Telecom 2025 in New Delhi today. He said, “When ideas, innovation, and intent come together in harmony, they create not a cacophony, but a symphony — and Bharat Telecom is that symphony of global collaboration and opportunity.”

    Organized by the Telecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC), in collaboration with Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Bharat Telecom 2025 plays a significant role in India’s vision to become a global hub for telecom manufacturing, services, and exports. The event was inaugurated in the presence of Dr.Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, Minister of State for Communications, alongside industry leaders, foreign delegates, and innovators from across the telecom value chain. The two-day event Bharat Telecom 2025, besides providing an interactive platform for stakeholders, also showcases an Exclusive International Business Expo.

    In his inaugural remarks, Minister Scindia further highlighted India’s growing role as a telecom exporter and a hub of innovation, backed by progressive reforms and production-linked incentives. “We’re not just connecting villages; we’re connecting futures. Every tower we raise, every byte we transmit, brings 1.4 billion people closer to opportunity”, Minister Scindia asserted. He highlighted, “It is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bold vision and unwavering resolve that have transformed India from a digital follower into a global digital leader — turning aspirations into infrastructure, and policy into progress.”

    Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia highlighted “In just 22 months, we connected 99% of our villages with 5G and brought 82% of our population onto the network, deploying 470,000 towers—this is not evolution; it is a telecom revolution.” He pointed out, “This digital highway we have built across India is not merely about communication—it is the infrastructure of infrastructure, empowering 1.4 billion citizens with access to healthcare, education, governance, and economic opportunity.”

    The minister emphasized India’s extraordinary rise as a global digital powerhouse, attributing it to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He pointed out that India has not only caught up with the world in areas like 4G and 5G, but is now leading the charge, with sweeping reforms and technological innovation shaping the country’s trajectory. Shri Scindia underlined the role of India’s telecom sector as a transformative force and described the nation’s evolution from expensive, limited mobile access in the 1990s to now being the world’s second-largest telecom market and the cheapest data provider.

    Speaking at the session, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, Minister of State for Communications, said, “There are moments in a nation’s journey when it not only participates in global conversations but defines their course. Today, India stands ready not merely as a market or consumer but as a creator, partner and trusted provider of world-class telecom solutions. The narrative has changed from a historical made-for-India to made-by-India.”

    Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar emphasized that India is undergoing a pivotal transformation in the global telecom arena, evolving from a consumer to a creator of technology. He highlighted that this progress was driven by the Digital India initiative launched a decade ago and supported by forward-thinking government policies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Citing initiatives like the production-linked incentive scheme, progressive spectrum management, and the Telecom Technology Development Fund, he pointed to India’s dramatic rise in domestic manufacturing, exports, and innovation. He further mentioned that India now plays a significant role in global supply chains, including producing 15% of the world’s iPhones. He concluded by outlining the country’s future focus on 6G leadership, satellite broadband expansion, and quantum communication networks to strengthen digital sovereignty.

    Mr. Arnob Roy, Chairman, TEPC, in his welcome address said, “Bharat Telecom showcases the transformative power of India’s indigenous telecom ecosystem, highlighting our unparalleled growth and innovation in the global telecom industry.” He acknowledged the Indian government’s strategic policies that have fostered innovation and manufacturing in the Telecom sector, and invited delegates to explore the innovations at the Bharat Telecom exhibition 2025.

    Bharat Telecom 2025 has been conceptualised to reinforce India’s position as a reliable and trusted telecom products manufacturing and export destination, by highlighting the country’s growing capabilities in telecom equipment, ICT services and next-generation digital technologies. Over 80 leading Indian Telecom and ICT companies showcased innovative products and solutions across multiple domains.

    The event saw enthusiastic international participation, with more than 130 foreign delegates from over 35 countries, representing government bodies, private enterprises etc. It also featured thematic exhibitions, conference sessions, high-impact B2B meetings, strategic networking sessions and knowledge-sharing forums focusing on cutting-edge communication technologies such as 5G, Optical Fibre, Broadband Infrastructure, Satellite Communication, IoT, AI-driven Networks and more.

    About TEPC:

    Established in 2009 under the Foreign Trade Policy of the Government of India, the Telecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC) plays a vital role in promoting and facilitating the export of telecom equipment and services. Its mandate spans the entire telecom ecosystem, including ICT hardware and software, infrastructure products, system integration, consultancy, and service provision. TEPC serves as a key platform for diverse stakeholders such as equipment manufacturers, system integrators, service providers, and other entities operating within the telecom sector.

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    Samrat

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Reaffirms Commitment to Buddha’s Teachings at UN Vesak Day-2025 in Vietnam

    Source: Government of India

    India Reaffirms Commitment to Buddha’s Teachings at UN Vesak Day-2025 in Vietnam

    Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Conveys President and PM’s Greetings at UN Vesak Celebrations

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 4:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs & Minority Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, today addressed a distinguished global gathering at the United Nations Vesak Day-2025 Celebrations held at the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Ho Chi Minh City. On behalf of President Smt. Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Shri Rijiju extended warm greetings to the international audience celebrating this sacred occasion.

    In his address, Shri Rijiju emphasized the enduring relevance of Lord Buddha’s teachings in today’s world and highlighted India’s ancient and continuing commitment to sustainability, peace, and human dignity. He underscored how the message of the Buddha serves as a guiding light in the face of contemporary global challenges.

    The grand ceremony was graced by the presence of the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, H.E. Luong Cuong, and the President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, among several heads of state and spiritual leaders. Eminent Buddhist figures including the Supreme Patriarch of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, Most Venerable Thich Tri Quang, and the Chairman of the International Organizing Committee for UNDV, Most Venerable Prof. Dr. Pra Brahmapundit, were also present.

    The 2025 celebrations, themed “Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity; Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development,” convey a powerful message amid global uncertainties.

    Sacred Holy Relics of Lord Buddha are being exhibited with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the Mahabodhi Society of India, the National Museum of India, and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC). The relics are currently on display at Thanh Tam Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City and will travel to Tay Ninh, Hanoi, and Ha Nam until May 21, 2025.

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2127263) Visitor Counter : 14

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Minority Affairs Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju addresses opening ceremony of the United Nations Day of Vesak

    Source: Government of India

    Minority Affairs Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju addresses opening ceremony of the United Nations Day of Vesak

    Shri Rijiju underlines significance of presence of Holy Buddha Relics in Ho Chi Minh City coinciding with the UN Day of Vesak celebrations

    Shri Rijiju meets President of Vietnam, Mr. Luong Cuong

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 4:45PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju addressed the opening ceremony of the United Nations Day of Vesak in Ho Chi Minh City today, which was also addressed by the President of Vietnam, Mr. Luong Cuong, President of Sri Lanka, Shri Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Sanghraja of Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, Thich Tri Quang and other leaders. Shri Rijiju conveyed warmest greetings and message on behalf of the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi.  He noted that timeless teachings of Lord Buddha offer profound insights and solutions to most of the present global challenges.  He mentioned that India’s initiative of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) to promote awareness about the impact of individual choices on our shared planet was deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy. He also invited the followers of Lord Buddha to visit the sacred sites associated with teachings of Lord Buddha in India and connect with this living heritage. Shri Rijiju also underlined the significance of the presence of Holy Buddha Relics in Ho Chi Minh City coinciding with the United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations.

    Shri Rijiju separately met the President of Vietnam, Mr. Luong Cuong.  While recognizing the healthy progress in multi-dimensional cooperation between India and Vietnam, both leaders’ sides affirmed support for further strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. Mr. Cuong appreciated Government of India’s sending of Holy Buddha Relics to Vietnam. The President of Vietnam accompanied by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs & Minority Affairs of India, the Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs of Vietnam, Politburo Member and Party Secretary of Ho Chi Minh City paid their respects to the Holy Buddha Relics brought from Sarnath near Kashi to the pagoda (temple) in Ho Chi Minh City.

    Shri Kiren Rijiju also visited an exhibition of Indian sculptures of Lord Buddha as well as digital restoration of Buddhist monuments in India on the sidelines of the United Nations Day of Vesak in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.  He also visited a comparative exhibition of Buddhist art and sculptures in India and Vietnam which brings out that over one and half millennia old Buddhist connections between the two countries extended beyond spirituality to the fields of art and culture.

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    SS/ISA

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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Open Market Operation (OMO) – Purchase of Government of India Securities held on May 06, 2025: Cut-Offs

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Security 7.06% GS 2028 6.10% GS 2031 8.32% GS 2032 7.18% GS 2033 7.10% GS 2034 7.40% GS 2035 7.23% GS 2039
    Total amount notified Aggregate amount of ₹50,000 crore
    (no security-wise notified amount)
    Total amount (face value) accepted by RBI (₹ in crore) 4,501 7,578 7,637 6,405 10,003 7,962 5,914
    Cut off yield (%) 6.0218 6.1886 6.3422 6.3366 6.3674 6.3638 6.4600
    Cut off price (₹) 102.74 99.54 111.32 105.35 104.92 107.75 107.00
    Detailed results will be issued shortly.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/260

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PAKISTAN – Violence in Kashmir: Christians launch an appeal for dialogue and peace

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Lahore (Agenzia Fides) – “In Pakistan, people are concerned about the growing tensions with India. The elderly remember the war. There is a certain fear among the population, given the escalation on the border, the firefights, and the victims. We are not far from the Indian border and Kashmir, which increases fears. Public opinion, seeing the constant increase in violence, including verbal violence, sees the risk of a new war growing,” Father Qaisar Feroz (OFM Cap), President of Signis Pakistan and Executive Secretary of the Social Communications Commission of the Episcopal Conference of Pakistan, told Fides.”What is becoming apparent is that leaders on both sides of the border are fueling violence and conflict. That is why today we say emphatically: we need words of peace, we need dialogues based on reason and thinking about the good of the respective peoples,” the Capuchin priest said. “We see that the conflict has also led to a ‘water conflict,’ because the springs are located on Indian territory, and India has closed them to Pakistan. This will have an impact on the poor and civilian population, which is very bitter for us and at the same time underlines the seriousness of the situation,” he notes. To prevent a new war, “interreligious initiatives and meetings have been launched in Pakistan, inviting political leaders and praying for dialogue and peace. Franciscans and Dominicans, among others, are participating in these initiatives, appealing to politicians: please, let us promote dialogue and peace.””The Christians in Pakistan,” he concludes, “support this appeal and pray for de-escalation so that the threads of negotiations can be re-twisted. Violence is a defeat under all circumstances and at all times,” Father Feroz says, expressing the feelings and wishes of the Catholic community.At the ecclesiastical level, the Pakistani region of Kashmir belongs to the Archdiocese of Islamabad-Rawalpindi. A mission of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate operates in this area. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 5/5/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stepping up in a changing global environment

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Good evening.

    Thank you to the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs for organising this event, and for your efforts to foster New Zealand’s understanding of international affairs. I am grateful for the opportunity to speak here today. 

    As keen observers and practitioners of international relations, you will all be aware of the degree to which the global environment has changed, even in the past two years.  

    We in New Zealand have enjoyed for a long time the benefits of a strategic environment in which we could focus heavily on growing our economy, seeking trading relationships and pursuing our interests safe in the knowledge that the stable post-war, liberal, international rules-based order provided the guardrails.  

    We believe in that order, and we will act to preserve it. But it is not enough on its own. We rely on our ally, our friends and our partners to help make us more secure, and they rely on us for support. Few countries can go it alone, and we are no exception.  

    We are no longer in a world – and I would argue that maybe we never were – where prosperity and security are mutually exclusive. There is no economic security without national security.  

    As Minister of Defence, I am keenly aware that our Defence Force needs to be acknowledged for its core functions. It plays a vital in contributing to national defence and resilience, and helping deliver whole-of government security objectives.  

    But we have a Defence Force with military capabilities for a reason. We choose to hold at readiness a credible force of highly trained and capable men and women who are prepared and ready to act with force if needed, to defend our country. 

    Unfortunately 35 years of underinvestment has allowed this capability to deteriorate.  

    Defence Capability Plan 

    I was therefore very proud to last month launch with the Prime Minister, the Chief of Defence Force and the Secretary of Defence our new Defence Capability Plan – or, given the military’s fondness for acronyms, the DCP. 

    This plan sets out $12 billion of planned commitments over the next four years, including $9 billion of new spending, with a path to reaching 2 percent of GDP in the next eight years. 

    The release of the DCP represents the culmination of several years of focused work by the Defence agencies to ensure our defence policy settings and our defence capability investments best support New Zealand’s interests in a changed and changing world through to 2040. 

    As you can imagine, the content of the DCP was the subject of some intense discussions with my Cabinet colleagues. We know the critical importance of getting this right, of having a plan that is both appropriately ambitious and achievable, and firmly focused on what is in New Zealand’s best interests. 

    I am proud of the DCP, and I welcome the very positive reactions to it, both domestically and internationally. 

    New Zealanders understand that our world has changed, and the highly skilled and professional personnel of the New Zealand Defence Force need to be ready to do what the New Zealand Government and people ask of it, often at short notice. 

    Defence is not something that can be mothballed until you need it. Because when the chips are down, you need a force that is ready and equipped to do whatever is asked of it – and it needs to be able about to do it immediately.  

    That means it must be empowered and equipped appropriately. 

    I have been particularly pleased with the broad support the DCP has received from across Parliament. National security is one area of public policy that benefits strongly from a bipartisan approach, and I welcome the support for a more capable Defence Force. 

    I have been able to discuss the DCP with a number of my international counterparts, and I can tell you it has been received very positively by New Zealand’s security partners. Our partners have welcomed our updated approach and our intention to invest more in New Zealand’s defence capabilities. 

    The first step to turning the DCP into action was taken on Sunday, when I announced the Government is putting aside $2 billion plus to replace the Defence Force’s ageing maritime helicopters. Alongside that, we are investing $957 million over four years in Defence Force activities, personnel and estate in Budget 25. I will have more to say on Budget Day on additional defence investment. 

    The increase in defence investment has generated quite a range of questions about elements of New Zealand’s defence policy, both long-standing and newly introduced, that could usefully be explained in greater detail. And that is what I would like to do this evening. 

    I will talk in particular to our assessment of New Zealand’s strategic environment, our alliance with Australia, our approach to deterrence, the importance of combat capability, and opportunities for innovation. 

    New Zealand’s strategic environment 

    The first line in the first chapter of the DCP sets the scene well for the policy settings that follow: “New Zealand is facing its most challenging and dangerous strategic environment for decades.” 

    Security challenges that we are familiar with remain with us. At home and in our immediate region these include ongoing risks of natural disasters and maritime security challenges of all kinds. And some of these are becoming worse – for example, we are seeing increasing use of the Pacific as a transhipment route for illegal drugs. 

    And for our Pacific partners in particular, climate change and its wide-ranging security impacts continue to represent the primary security concern.  

    Increasingly, however, the defining character of our strategic environment is strategic competition. 

    Globally, in the wider Indo-Pacific and in our immediate region, we are seeing some states increasingly acting in ways that undermine existing international rules and norms, and seeking to reshape both regional orders and the global order as a whole.  

    Recent events in our immediate region – including the PRC Task Group operating in the Tasman Sea and last year’s Intercontinental Ballistic Missile test – have demonstrated that New Zealand’s geographic location no longer shelters us from threats to the extent that it once did. Our region is of increasing strategic significance, and global challenges and tensions are having direct impacts on our security. 

    And the wider Indo Pacific contains a number of potential security flashpoints – be that cross-Strait tensions, the Korean Peninsula or competing claims in the South China Sea. 

    Perhaps the most acute – and still shocking – example of the deteriorating strategic environment is Russia’s ongoing illegal war against Ukraine. 

    New Zealand remains fully committed to supporting Ukraine’s self-defence and national resilience. The Prime Minister announced last month during his trip to the United Kingdom and Türkiye that New Zealand is extending its military assistance in support of Ukraine’s self-defence through to December 2026. 

    New Zealand welcomes efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace, and is following the negotiations on a potential ceasefire very closely. 

    Overview of DCP policy settings 

    As a government, we need to ensure we are employing our full range of tools of statecraft to best effect in service of New Zealand’s national interests.  

    We are a small island nation that relies on trade for its economic growth and – as I have previously said, we cannot have economic security without national security. 

    A compromised supply chain can lead to disruptions, financial losses, reputational damage and compromised products or services. And our supply chains rely on the security of maritime, air, land, space and cyber domains.  

    As Defence Minister, I need to ensure the Defence Force has the right capabilities, is using those capabilities to support peace and security, and is prepared for scenarios in which competition tips into confrontation and conflict. 

    That is why the DCP has three new defence policy objectives. These aren’t a radical shift in our policy, but they provide a sharper focus.  

    The first is to protect and promote New Zealand’s security, and that of our immediate region. New Zealand’s security is indivisible from the strategic situation our region is facing. 

    Defence plays a key part in ensuring the security, stability, and resilience of our immediate region by deterring actions contrary to the security of New Zealand and our regional partners and helping sustain wider regional conditions favourable to New Zealand’s security interests. An important part of this is delivering our defence and security constitutional responsibilities to the Realm.  

    Second is enhancing our alliance and other key security partnerships, which I’ll expand on shortly.  

    And third is to contribute to achieving our global interests, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Defence will continue its pattern of operations in support of maritime security and the existing liberal international rules-based order, and we will work closely with our international security partners to promote collective security approaches in accordance with international law, in particular the United National Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), including freedom of navigation and oversight. 

    But Defence’s activities are truly global as well, as demonstrated by NZDF’s ongoing support to Ukraine and operations in the Middle East. Just last month, the Royal New Zealand Navy deployed the frigate HMNZS Te Kaha to conduct anti-smuggling operations in the Indian Ocean as part of the New Zealand-led Combined Task Force 150. The taskforce has already had very real impact, disrupting the trade of $600 million worth of illegal drugs so far. 

    Taken together, these three new objectives set the direction for Defence, as part of an all-of-Government approach, to promote and protect our national interests.  

    Our Alliance and security partnerships 

    But I want to expand specifically on our security partnerships. New Zealand has always valued the importance of collective security and supporting international mechanisms that enable collective action and support sovereign equality of states. 

    This is reflected in the policy settings in the DCP. We have always worked with others that share our values and our interests to shape the world as we would wish it to be, and to prepare together should the worst happen.  

    Indeed, since becoming the Minister of Defence, I have taken every opportunity to meet with my international defence counterparts, to demonstrate that New Zealand is internationally engaged and willing to step up to respond to new opportunities and emerging threats.  

    But within that, we will always maintain our independent foreign policy, making our own decisions about what is in New Zealand’s interests – just as other countries do.  

    It is worth saying more about our relationship with our closest friend and only ally Australia. For this Government, it was essential that the DCP reinforce the importance we place on our alliance with Australia, and the importance in our evolving strategic environment to speak directly about these issues.  

    I’ve been in touch with my Australian defence counterpart Richard Marles, who is also their Deputy Prime Minister, to offer my congratulations following the weekend’s election. Minister Marles and I both look forward to continuing to work together on a range of issues, including our shared security. 

    We have specifically referenced the ANZUS Treaty in the DCP, as it continues to underpin the strategic relationship between New Zealand and Australia and formalises the commitments that we have to each other as allies.   

    It has done so since 1951, and the DCP does not represent any change in its interpretation. And as the Prime Minister stated, our nuclear free policy has not, and will not, change. 

    We are working to create an increasingly integrated Anzac force, which means we will be better prepared, exercised and equipped to combine our Defence Forces to defend our shared interests. To enhance our interoperability, we have committed to removing tactical, technical and procedural information-sharing barriers where they restrict our ability to operate as an integrated force.  

    Of course, this Government is also committed to maintaining and investing in a range of other security partnerships, including with our Pacific partners and our Five Eyes partners. As the Prime Minister has indicated, we are also focused on strengthening our relationships across Asia.  

    Recently, we have signed a number of agreements with partner countries. These include the India-New Zealand Defence Cooperation Arrangement, which is a milestone bilateral arrangement facilitating closer defence relations – including the establishment of regular bilateral defence engagements and opening new areas for collaboration such as deploying and training together.  

    I was in the Philippines last week to sign a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement, which sets out the legal conditions for military cooperation between our countries. 

    And as part of the NATO Indo-Pacific 4 grouping, we’re working with NATO and Indo-Pacific partners to uphold the international rules-based order and democratic values that are fundamental to our security and prosperity.  

    Deterrence and combat capability 

    We’ve also observed commentary on the much more explicit inclusion of, and focus on, deterrence in the DCP. 

    Deterrence is a normal part of how states operate and what defence forces do. At its core it is about influencing behaviour, or denying opportunities, by making other actors aware of the risks and consequences of undertaking those unwanted activities. Deterrence can be delivered through various tools. But having a credible and capable military force is a key way states deter activities and behaviours they don’t want.  

    As the DCP itself points out, deterrence is underpinned by having the necessary tools to act. In that respect the DCP recognises the increasing importance of building greater lethality into the force to be able to achieve deterrent effects.  

    It’s also important here to be clear on what the purpose of a military is. And I referred earlier to the core functions of a Defence Force.  

    Of course, modern militaries carry out a range of functions. But with the challenging world we now face, we need to reinforce the primary purpose of the military. There is no opting out from today’s strategic realities.  

    That is why the DCP signals increased strike capabilities which will increase our ability to use force if needed to protect our interests. This will be achieved through the procurement of new missile systems, which will provide an ability to respond to hostile vessels at a greater range.  

    Options for this include arming existing air and maritime platforms with missiles, such as the P-8A Poseidon fleet and the Anzac frigates, or options such as land-based strike. 

    Opportunities for innovation 

    I’m very aware of the importance of innovation and new technologies in defence.  

    Experience in Ukraine shows that conventional systems are still needed, but we’ve also seen the use of new technologies in new ways. Tanks and drones in the same battlefield are a reality.  

    New technologies and innovations will help the NZDF with intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities. In the short and medium term, Defence will focus on uncrewed technology, including long-range uncrewed aerial vehicles to provide more persistent maritime surveillance. The DCP also describes uncrewed surface and subsurface vessels to help monitor and protect our Exclusive Economic Zone, and support our Pacific partners.  

    There will also be a focus on strengthened cyber and information capabilities to protect the NZDF’s networks and systems, and provide defensive cyber, electronic and information warfare effects. 

    A two-yearly review cycle of this DCP will provide greater flexibility by adopting technologies earlier in their lifecycle, and by incorporating new but proven technologies. Defence is also exploring joint procurement opportunities with Australia, where it makes sense to do so. 

    A technology accelerator as part of the DCP will enable New Zealand’s high technology sector to quickly develop advanced platforms and systems specifically focused on New Zealand defence problems, and the ability to deliver these rapidly. It would help transition technology from the prototype phase to ‘service ready’ capabilities that could be readily acquired by the NZDF, albeit at limited scale.  

    We have an opportunity to partner in a better way with industry, and particularly New Zealand industry. How we intend to do this will be set out in a Defence Industry Strategy that will support implementation of the DCP. 

    One area we see innovation and scope to adapt is in the space industry. As you may know, I am also the Minister for Space.  

    I believe that here we have an opportunity to harness the incredible innovation across the New Zealand space industry to make contributions across all applications of space.  

    The world’s reliance on space technologies means that irresponsible behaviour in space has global impacts, and New Zealand has no protection from those effects.  

    Guaranteeing access to satellite communications and other systems that rely on space is critical to a range of new and existing technologies and systems used by the NZDF.  

    Part of supporting that access is ensuring we take broader action to support New Zealand’s interest in the safe, secure and responsible use of space. We are developing a new regulatory regime to ensure that operators of ground-based space infrastructure register their operations to deter foreign interference in New Zealand’s space infrastructure.  

    With partners and allies, New Zealand’s Defence agencies and our innovative space industry can contribute to international efforts to preserve and protect freedom of access to space and all the space-based services we need to prosper.   

     Closing remarks 

    I believe this DCP represents change. It is a change to a more deliberate defence policy and is a significant change in the level of investment in our defence.  

    It is a message to New Zealanders that we are prepared to invest in their security. It is a message to our partners and ally that we will contribute what we need to. And it is a message to the NZDF that we believe in them and what they do.  

    Change can be hard, and deciding to invest this amount of funding was difficult. We did not, and won’t ever, take that decision lightly.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Iterate.ai and ASA Computers Launch AIcurate, Bringing Secure, On-Prem AI to Enterprises and SMBs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif. and DENVER, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Iterate.ai, whose AI platform enables enterprises to build production-ready applications for private AI requirements and the AI PC era, and ASA Computers, a leading IT solution provider, today announced the launch of AIcurate, a turnkey, on-premises AI appliance that delivers complete control, privacy, and enterprise-grade AI performance without relying on the cloud.

    Built on Iterate.ai’s Generate platform and deployed on Dell PowerEdge servers, AIcurate empowers enterprises to run large language models (LLMs) and AI workloads securely and within their own infrastructure. The system supports integration with popular business tools, is vendor-agnostic, and is optimized for performance-intensive applications such as document analysis, internal search, and workflow automation.

    “Businesses large and small still face real barriers to successful, long-term AI adoption, including data privacy, vendor lock-in, and poor integration with the software they’re already using,” said Ruban Kanapathippillai, SVP of Systems and Solutions at ASA Computers. “AIcurate removes those roadblocks. It puts enterprise-grade AI directly into customers’ data centers, giving them full control while supporting the flexible and secure architecture that modern IT teams demand.”

    Unlike public AI platforms, AIcurate enables secure deployment of powerful LLMs such as OpenAI, PaLM 2, Meta’s Llama, Mistral, and Microsoft’s models, all without sending data to the cloud. Businesses can build custom AI workflows while ensuring compliance with internal policies and industry regulations.

    “With the launch of AIcurate, we’ve productized our Generate platform into a self-contained system designed for enterprise and SMB IT environments,” said Brian Sathianathan, CTO and co-founder of Iterate.ai. “Customers can use the solution for advanced and business-sensitive use cases like contract review, document summarization, internal knowledge search, and workflow automation, all while retaining complete control over their data. This is especially critical for sectors where cloud-based AI simply isn’t an option.”

    AIcurate runs on Dell PowerEdge servers with Intel Xeon processors and NVIDIA GPUs, providing the horsepower needed to process hundreds of pages of documents, perform retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), and support real-time AI inference.

    “AI success hinges on reliable, scalable infrastructure. By combining Dell PowerEdge’s proven performance with Iterate.ai’s private AI capabilities, AIcurate offers a practical and secure solution for businesses’ AI ambitions,” said Allen Clingerman, Chief Technology Strategist at Dell Technologies. “This collaboration makes advanced AI more accessible for organizations that can’t compromise on data control.”

    Capabilities included in AIcurate:

    • Secure on-prem deployment: Ensures all data remains in-house to meet compliance and privacy requirements; users can leverage local LLMs, guaranteeing that all processing and data are confined within the instance.
    • Enterprise tool integration: Works seamlessly with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, QuickBooks, DocuSign, and more.
    • Support for leading LLMs: Compatible with OpenAI, Meta, PaLM 2, Mistral AI, and Microsoft models.
    • Vendor-agnostic architecture: Integrates seamlessly with any service or tool through API connections, eliminating vendor lock-in and providing users with greater flexibility.
    • Advanced document processing: Utilizes built-in RAG technology to process complex documents, enabling consistent and accurate queries based on the data contained within them.
    • Role-based access control: Granular permission management supports diverse user needs across large organizations.
    • Workflow automation with agentic AI: The platform features AI-powered workflow cards designed to streamline and automate everyday business processes. These cards use agentic AI to intelligently act on your data, helping teams complete tasks like content generation, document review, and reporting with minimal manual input.

    As enterprises become more cautious about cloud-based AI, demand is growing for private, flexible alternatives. AIcurate meets this need with a powerful, scalable solution that enterprises can deploy on their terms. The solution is especially suitable for industries with strict data governance needs, including healthcare, legal, finance, retail, and education. It is designed for both SMBs seeking cost-effective private AI, and large enterprises with complex infrastructure and compliance needs.

    For more information about AIcurate, contact AIcurate@asacomputers.com.

    About Iterate.ai

    Iterate.ai is at the forefront of empowering businesses with state-of-the-art AI solutions, like Generate and its AI low code platform, Interplay. Interplay is cloud-agnostic and can run AI on the edge and in secure private environments. With six patents granted (including “drag-and-drop AI”) and nearly a dozen more pending, Iterate.ai’s platform offers corporate innovators a low-risk, speedy, and systematic way to scale in-house, near-term digital innovation initiatives. With its largest offices in San Jose, CA and Denver, CO, Iterate.ai has a global presence with other offices in North America (Texas, Washington, Arizona), Europe (Stockholm), and Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Singapore).

    About ASA Computers

    ASA Computers, a member of the AI Platform Alliance, is a leading IT solution provider headquartered in Fremont, California. Specializing in custom server-to-rack designs for cloud, AI and HPC applications, ASA Computers delivers innovative engineering solutions tailored to meet diverse IT infrastructure needs. To learn more about ASA Computers, visit asacomputers.com.

    Contact
    Kyle Peterson
    kyle@clementpeterson.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bb0d4a84-30b7-4678-ac8a-45db0ddf204f.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Esports Chess: Online Battles, Dynamic Formats, and Hundreds of Thousands of Moves

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Online battles, dynamic formats, streams and hundreds of thousands of moves – this is how the INTER series of eSports chess tournaments, organized by students of the Polytechnic University, took place.

    The tournaments were organized by the INTER team. This project was founded at the Polytechnic University, but has already gone far beyond its borders and become part of the international student chess arena.

    From February to April, several large-scale online competitions in different formats were held under the auspices of INTER. These were the standard Interuniversity Team Battles game and the Hunger Games, where participants played new types of chess at each stage.

    More than a thousand people from 18 countries participated in the tournaments. Representatives from Russia, Bangladesh, Turkey, Fiji, Mexico, Peru, Kenya, Brazil, India, Algeria, the Republic of Congo, Kazakhstan, Ghana, the Republic of South Africa, Turkmenistan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Argentina fought for victory. The total number of moves made exceeded half a million. This was not just a game, but a real test of endurance, strategic thinking and psychological fortitude.

    Participants trained weekly, followed game analysis, learned from professionals, and found out what was happening in the world of chess and what helps them win.

    The winners and prize winners of the series were:

    8th Interuniversity Team Battle

    1st place – MTUCI chess club; 2nd place – Voenmekh chess club; 3rd place – TUSUR chess club.

    9th Interuniversity Team Battle

    1st place — VolSU Chess Club (SSC “Kogorta”); 2nd place — Voenmekh Chess Club; 3rd place — Polytechnic Chess Club (SPbPU).

    10th Interuniversity Team Battle

    1st place — VolSU Chess Club (SSC “Kogorta”); 2nd place — MTUCI Chess Club; 3rd place — BSU Chess Club.

    The INTER project is an example of how friendship and rivalry do not need borders. All that is needed are people who believe in the game and in each other, noted organizer Ruslan Barseghyan.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Winners Announced at Taiwan’s Largest AI Competition: The Best AI Awards – 1,253 Teams from 37 Countries Compete for Top Honors in AI Innovation

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    To promote AI innovation and foster emerging talent, Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) hosted the inaugural Best AI Awards Finals and Awards Ceremony on May 3 at the Taipei World Trade Center Hall 1. The competition attracted 1,253 elite teams from 36 countries. From the 233 finalists, 93 awards were presented, including eight Gold Prizes awarded to leading companies and academic teams from HiTRUST Incorporated, eYs3D Microelectronics, Data Yoo Application CO., Jmem Technology, National Central University, National Taiwan University, as well as standout international entries from the UK and the Philippines.

    Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Economic Affairs Ho Chin-Tsang highlighted that the competition served as a platform to bring together talent cultivation, real-world application, and industry demand. This year’s entries, he noted, exemplify how AI innovation can be combined with creativity to meet real-world needs. Looking ahead, the Ministry will continue to align policy direction and resource investment with industry needs to bring more AI innovations to market and create meaningful local impact.

    Kuo Chao-Chung, Director General of the Department of Industrial Technology, noted that in addition to enthusiastic participation from domestic companies and universities, the inaugural competition also attracted 353 international entrants from 36 countries, including India, the Philippines, the United States, and the United Kingdom. This strong turnout highlights the Awards’ growing significance as not just a Taiwanese initiative, but a global platform for AI innovation and exchange. Beyond the competition itself, the Ministry of Economic Affairs is working with academic and research institutions to support enterprises in design, product development, and prototyping. It is also partnering with agencies such as the Small and Medium Enterprise and Startup Administration and the Industrial Development Administration to help accelerate AI-driven transformation across industries.

    Chiou Chyou-Huey, Director General of the Industrial Development Administration and a key advocate behind the competition, described the Best AI Awards as Taiwan’s largest and most prestigious AI contest. The Award offers some of the highest prizes and maintains a highly competitive selection process with a winning rate of just 7.4%. He expressed hopes that through further efforts, AI can be integrated across all sectors to drive widespread industrial innovation.

    This year’s entries spanned a diverse range of industries, including ICT (18.4%), manufacturing (16.2%), healthcare (15.9%), wholesale and retail (10.2%), education (8.6%), and finance (7.8%). More than 100 startups, SMEs, and publicly listed companies took part, accelerating the adoption of AI across Taiwan’s industrial landscape.

    Looking ahead, the Ministry of Economic Affairs plans to make the Best AI Awards an annual flagship event for advancing AI development, talent cultivation, and innovation. The finals will be held each May alongside COMPUTEX, with over 20 domestic and international investors and buyers invited to participate in matchmaking sessions. Through this series of initiatives, the Ministry aims to foster new AI applications, accelerate workforce development, and help realize Taiwan’s vision of becoming a global AI Island.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Problems in relations between Pakistan and India cannot be resolved by military means: UN Secretary General

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    UNITED NATIONS, May 6 (Xinhua) — The problems between Pakistan and India cannot be resolved militarily, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters on Monday.

    “Make no mistake: a military solution is not a solution,” he said. “Tensions between India and Pakistan are at their highest level in years,” Guterres said. “And so it pains me to see the relationship reaching a boiling point,” the secretary-general added.

    A. Guterres once again strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and expressed condolences to the families of the victims. “Attacks on civilians are unacceptable and those responsible must be held accountable through credible and legal means,” he said.

    The UN Secretary-General stressed that it is important, “especially at this critical hour, to avoid a military confrontation that could easily spiral out of control.” “Now is the time to exercise maximum restraint and step back from the brink,” he added.

    “I have spoken about this in my ongoing contacts with both countries,” said A. Guterres.

    He again offered his services to India and Pakistan for the sake of peace. “The UN is ready to support any initiative that promotes de-escalation, diplomacy and a return to a commitment to peace,” the secretary-general said.

    Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Viridien secures sale of Sercel Marlin Offshore Logistics solution to ONGC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Paris, France – May 6, 2025

    Viridien has announced a sale of its state-of-the art Sercel Marlin™ Offshore Logistics management solution to Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) to enhance operational efficiency and safety across its Western offshore E&P operations in India. The sale includes a five-year contract to provide ONGC with dedicated on-premises Sercel software and support services.

    The Sercel Marlin Offshore Logistics solution will digitize and streamline ONGC’s complex offshore E&P logistics, increasing situational awareness through real-time vessel tracking and boosting efficiency in operational planning while also managing helicopter transit. Seamless integration with ONGC’s market-leading ERP systems will also ensure efficient data exchange and decision-making. Additionally, Marlin’s advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms will future-proof ONGC’s operations by further enhancing operational efficiency and planning. All of this will support ONGC’s vision to deliver business excellence and achieve their carbon neutrality objectives.

    Jérôme Denigot, EVP, Sensing & Monitoring, Viridien, said: “We are proud to support ONGC’s digitalization strategy with our Sercel Marlin Offshore Logistics solution. Tailored for both cloud-based and on-premises deployment, it offers unparalleled flexibility to accommodate a client’s diverse infrastructure needs. This award widens our footprint in India’s offshore energy sector and opens up future growth opportunities for our Sercel software solutions in the region. This latest collaboration strengthens our position as a leading provider of operations and logistics software for the energy industry and beyond.”

    About Viridien:

    Viridien (www.viridiengroup.com) is an advanced technology, digital and Earth data company that pushes the boundaries of science for a more prosperous and sustainable future. With our ingenuity, drive and deep curiosity we discover new insights, innovations, and solutions that efficiently and responsibly resolve complex natural resource, digital, energy transition and infrastructure challenges. Viridien employs around 3,400 people worldwide and is listed as VIRI on the Euronext Paris SA (ISIN: FR001400PVN6).

    Contacts

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Result of the Daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction held on May 06, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 1-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 25,000
    Total amount of bids received (in ₹ crore) 6,428
    Amount allotted (in ₹ crore) 6,428
    Cut off Rate (%) 6.01
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 6.01
    Partial Allotment Percentage of bids received at cut off rate (%) NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/258

    MIL OSI Economics –