Category: India

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Maj Gen Lisamma PV assumes the appointment of ADG, MNS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 2:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Maj Gen Lisamma PV assumed the appointment of Additional Director General, Military Nursing Service (MNS) in New Delhi on May 01, 2025. She succeeds Maj Gen Sheena PD who superannuated on April 30, 2025 after serving for four decades. Hailing from Kollam district of Kerala, Maj Gen Lisamma PV is an alumna of School of Nursing, Military Hospital, Jalandhar.

     

    After her commissioning into MNS in 1986, the General Officer obtained Bachelor’s degree in Arts & Law along with Master’s Degree in Hospital Administration. Alongside her professionally rich nursing career, she has excelled as an administrator handling various appointments such as Principal College of Nursing, Command Hospital Air Force, (Bangalore); Principal Matron, Command Hospital (Eastern Command); Brigadier MNS HQ (Eastern Command); Brigadier MNS (Admin) Integrated HQ of Ministry of Defence, and the recent appointment at Army Hospital (Research & Referral) as Principal Matron.

    Maj Gen Lisamma PV’s strong resolve for evidence-based best practices through training and research, to stay relevant at all times, has been widely appreciated.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM greets the people of Gujarat on Statehood day

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 9:05AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi greeted the people of Gujarat on its Statehood day today.

    In separate posts on X, he said:

    “On the proud occasion of their Statehood Day, my best wishes to the people of Gujarat. The state has distinguished itself for its culture, spirit of enterprise and dynamism. The people of Gujarat have excelled in various fields. May the state keep attaining new heights of progress.”

    — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 1, 2025

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Distillery among next opening day traders announced for Derby Market Hall

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council is excited to reveal another wave of traders who are set to move into the revitalised Derby Market Hall when it reopens, including a new bar and Derby’s first distillery in the heart of the city centre, marking another milestone in the transformation of the historic Grade-II listed building.

    Following a £35.1m restoration, the Market Hall will reopen its doors to the public on Saturday, 24 May, marking a new era for Derby’s independent shopping, dining, and entertainment scene. 

    A curated mix of traditional and contemporary traders will be in place when the Market Hall reopens its doors, creating a vibrant hub in the heart of the city and blending its rich history with a modern experience. The newest announcement of traders offers something for everyone, with the continuation of international flavours and diverse menus for all visitors.

    Supporting Derbyshire’s community:

    • Preloved, a non-profit, volunteer-run boutique will be operating from the Market Hall when it reopens to the public. The non-profit boutique, which will sell high-quality preloved clothing, is the newest initiative from YMCA Derbyshire Group, which also includes Padley@YMCA Derbyshire. The charities have a longstanding history of supporting young people and communities across Derby and Derbyshire, with the YMCA since 1847 and Padley since 1985. All proceeds from Preloved will go towards funding vital services and will help the YMCA contribute to their vision and mission of supporting young people and communities who are most in need. By shopping or donating to Preloved, visitors will be helping young people and the YMCA’s mission. 

    An iconic distillery and bar:

    • Award-winning local winery, distillers, and bar operators, Darley Abbey Wines will be operating two units at Derby Market Hall. Known for their first gin, The Uncommon Thread, and a recent win as Best Bar at the 2023 Marketing Derby Food & Drink Awards, Darley Abbey Wines continues to blend local heritage with a modern flair.
    • The Spirit Run will be the first distillery bar in the heart of Derby city centre, producing small-batch spirits for customers to sample and enjoy on-site at Derby Market Hall. After releasing their first gin in November 2022, The Uncommon Thread, the distillery arm of the business has continued to grow. With a focus on collaboration with local makers, and quality ingredients, The Spirit Run will offer visitors a brand-new cultural experience within the Market Hall.
    • Situated in the heart of the bustling Derby Market Hall, Market Porter is set to become a new welcoming space where visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of beers, hand-picked wines, premium spirits, and more. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a great drink in a lively setting, Market Porter provides the perfect blend of quality and convenience.

    The international flavours continue:

    • With vibrant international flavours at the forefront of the revitalised Market Hall, Arepita is gearing up to offer authentic Venezuelan and Caribbean-inspired cuisine. Diners can enjoy freshly made arepas, empanadas and more, crafted with a wide range of bold spices and unique Venezuelan seasoning. Arepita will also offer a range of gluten-free dishes, staying true to their motto: “Gluten free… toasty and tasty”. Arepita is also set to offer takeaway and catering services.
    • Potful of Crumble, a dessert trader, is set to bring warm, nostalgic comfort to Derby Market Hall with a range of handcrafted crumble pots and fresh fruit smoothies, made fresh and on-site daily. Potful of Crumble offers a mix of traditional and more modern flavours, from its classic apple crumble, crafted from a cherished family recipe, to indulgent chocolate toppings. Each crumble pot is available in gluten-free and vegan options and is completely customisable with a range of hot or cold custard, ice cream, and a variety of toppings to choose from. A range of refreshing and tasty fresh fruit smoothies will also be available. 
    • Tikka Tales is set to bring the rich, smoky flavours of authentic Indian Tandoori cuisine to the Market Hall with a variety of flavourful dishes on offer. Celebrating bold spices and traditional cooking techniques, Tikka Tales will offer tandoori tikkas, freshly baked naan, a variety of traditional curry dishes, chaats, and much more. Diners will be able to experience the essence of India with marinated grilled meats and slow-cooked curry. Each dish will be authentically and freshly cooked in the Market Hall. Tikka Tales originates from the Artcore Café which has been operating for two years.
    • Bethel Kitchen will offer vibrant and diverse flavours with African and French dishes. Led by Sandra Sonna, a Lyon-born chef who grew up in Africa, Bethel Kitchen brings a diverse menu of fresh culinary experiences to Derby Market Hall. Visitors can look forward to an array of dishes, from classic French favourites such as quiche Lorraine, steak tartare, and beef bourguignon, to African staples such as jollof rice, fufu with okra, chicken suya, and fried plantain. The menu also features classic street food dishes including puff-puff, garba, and degue, offering something for each visitor to the Market Hall.

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said:

    I’m delighted to announce our final wave of traders who will be operating in the Market Hall when it reopens to the public on Saturday, 24 May. The new traders each bring something unique and special to Derby and the historic Market Hall.

    We are bringing together the best of the region’s independent shopping, eating, drinking, and entertainment, and with only a few weeks to go, I’m excited for the reopening and for visitors from across the region and beyond to experience everything that our traders have to offer.

    The Market Hall will once again be Derby’s beating heart where people choose to come together to shop, eat, and enjoy the buzz of the city. I am certain that it will be a huge success.

    A range of pop-up traders will also be in place when the Market Hall reopens its doors to the public.

    Located at the heart of the city centre, linking Derbion and St Peter’s Quarter with the Cathedral Quarter and Becketwell, the redeveloped Market Hall will play a key role in widening the diversity of the city centre and is expected to generate £3.64m for the local economy every year.

    Follow Derby Market Hall on Facebook and Instagram, or visit the website to find out more. 

    Osnabruck Square, the space outside Derby Market Hall, will be open in July 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Experience the Future of TV with Samsung’s Premium AI-Integrated QLED TV Series and Crystal Clear 4K UHD TV Now Live on Amazon and Flipkart

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, announced the launch of its new range of AI-powered QLED TV and Crystal Clear 4K UHD TV, available on Amazon, Flipkart, and Samsung.com starting May 1, 2025.  Designed to deliver the ultimate home entertainment experience, the new lineup includes the QLED series – QEF1, equipped with cutting-edge AI technology, and the Clear 4K UHD series – UE81, UE84, UE86, engineered to provide exceptional clarity, color, and detail for an immersive viewing experience.
     
    At the center of the launch is the QLED TV, featuring Real and Safe Quantum Dot Technology to deliver stunning color accuracy and durability. Featuring True Quantum Dots for unparalleled color precision, these TVs are also free from Cadmium, a harmful substance known to be a cancer-causing agent, ensuring both safety and superior performance.
     
    Powered by Samsung’s latest Q4 AI Processor, the TV analyzes and optimizes content in real-time with sharper visuals, clearer sound, and a more personalized viewing experience. Leveraging Samsung Vision AI, it intelligently enhances picture quality by recognizing scenes, objects, and faces for lifelike details, while also ensuring precise color volume with Pantone Validated Colors for true-to-life hues. To ensure peace of mind, the TV is secured with Samsung Knox Security, protecting users’ data and connected devices. Additionally, the new lineup offers access to Endless Free Content, delivering a world of entertainment with no additional Cost.
     
    Samsung’s new UHD models deliver crystal-clear 4K resolution, powered by the advanced Crystal 4K Processor, ensuring sharp and vibrant visuals. With 4K Upscaling, the models also enhance lower-resolution content to near 4K quality. Featuring PurColour, they offer lifelike colors for a truly immersive viewing experience. The integrated OTS Lite technology delivers dynamic sound with virtual top channel audio, creating an enriched audio experience. With access to endless free content, these models make premium entertainment accessible to a broader audience.
     
    Viplesh Dang, Senior Director, Visual Display Business, Samsung India, said, “At Samsung, we continuously push the boundaries of innovation to deliver products that redefine home entertainment. With launch of our AI-enhanced QLED and Crystal Clear 4K UHD TVs, we are elevating the viewing experience for consumers, offering advanced entertainment. These models, powered by Samsung Vision AI, deliver intelligent scene recognition for enhanced picture quality, making every frame more immersive. This launch reflects our dedication to delivering intelligent viewing experiences to more homes, meeting the evolving needs of our consumers with innovation, convenience, and reliability”
     
    Customers can look forward to benefits like discounts of up to 35%. The new Samsung Online TV lineup is available with 12 month No Cost EMI starting at just INR 3,333/month for QLED models and INR 2,500/month for UHD models. Customers can also avail an instant bank cashback of up to INR 3,000.  With innovative features and exclusive launch offers, this new range is set to transform living spaces into cinematic hubs.
     
     Key Features of QLED TV

    Real and Safe QLED
    Samsung’s Real and Safe QLED TVs are built with 100% Color Volume-certified Quantum Dot technology, delivering vibrant, lifelike visuals. Certified for safety by trusted global institutions, these TVs are also free from Cadmium, a harmful substance known to be a cancer-causing agent, ensuring a healthier and worry-free viewing experience for all.
     
    Q4 AI Processor
    The Samsung Q4 AI Processor enhances the TV viewing experience by intelligently optimizing both visuals and sound in real time. It upscales content to detailed 4K resolution, ensuring an immersive experience tailored to the surroundings and the content being viewed.
     
    Pantone Validation
    Pantone Validation guarantees superior color accuracy by meeting Pantone’s stringent testing standards. This validation ensures the authentic reproduction of Pantone colors and skin tones, providing an immersive viewing experience that mirrors the creator’s original vision.
     
    Samsung Vision AI
    Samsung Vision AI brings intelligent enhancements to TVs with real-time AI upscaling, smart features like Generative Wallpaper, and SmartThings. It adapts visuals, sound, and interactions based on the environment and user needs. Advanced AI capabilities offer a truly personalized and immersive viewing experience.

    Samsung Knox Security
    Samsung Knox is Samsung’s commitment to security, providing defense-grade protection across devices. It offers a comprehensive suite of security features, customizable to meet diverse business needs. With Knox, businesses can confidently safeguard their data and operations.
     
    SmartThings
    The SmartThings app on Samsung TVs allows you to control and automate your TV and other smart devices, enhancing your home experience. By using SmartThings, you can control appliances, lights, and security cameras directly from the TV. To set it up, simply navigate to the SmartThings option in the TV’s menu and follow the prompts to connect your devices.
     
    Key Features of Crystal Clear 4K UHD TVs
    Crystal Processor 4K
    The Crystal Processor 4K provides enhanced picture quality with precise colour mapping. This powerful processor ensures that every shade of colour is displayed as intended, offering a lifelike 4K resolution for all content.
     
    PurColor
    With PurColor, consumers can enjoy an above and beyond experience while watching their favorite content by enjoying real life color expression on the screen. It enables the TV to express a vast range of colors for optimal picture performance and an immersive viewing experience. With One Billion True Colors, this distinctive technology brings reality to the TV screen, with existing colors being showcased in their original state.
     
    Multi Voice Assistant
    Consumers can pick their favorite voice assistant that is built-in into the new Crystal Vision 4K UHD TV for an advanced control in their connected home. They can choose between Bixby or Amazon Alexa and cherish an optimal home entertainment experience from the coziness and comfort of their living couch.
     
    OTS Lite
    OTS Lite (Object Tracking Sound Lite) uses Samsung’s AI algorithms to track on-screen movements and precisely match sound locations using multi-channel speakers. 3D surround sound with our virtual top channel audio allows you to be immersed in the audio experience.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-Evening Report: Which medications are commonly prescribed for autistic people and why?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hiran Thabrew, Senior Lecturer in Child Psychiatry and Paediatrics, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Arlette Lopez/Shutterstock

    Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition. Someone may have social and communication differences, sensory issues and/or restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour or interests.

    There has been increased awareness and an expanded definition of autism over the past couple of decades. Now around one in 40 people are thought to be autistic.

    Autistic people often have strengths such as focus, honesty and dedication. But due to a combination of genetic and autism-related factors, they also have higher rates of other health conditions.

    Common mental health conditions include anxiety, depression, attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder or ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders and intellectual developmental disorder.

    Common physical health conditions include epilepsy, rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease.

    The core features of autism can’t and don’t need to be altered. But a range of talking therapies and medications can help manage these other health conditions.

    Commonly prescribed medications

    The increased awareness of autism and availability of new medications has seen increased rates of prescribing for autistic people and those with other chronic conditions over the past few decades. This is a trend we have seen internationally.

    The most common medications for mental health conditions among autistic people are:

    1. selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (Prozac), for anxiety and depression

    2. low-dose antipsychotic medications, such as risperidone and aripiprazole, for reducing stress-related irritability and aggression

    3. stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) for ADHD

    4. melatonin and other sleep medications.

    The most common medications for physical health conditions among autistic people are:

    1. painkillers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, for pain and fever, especially in younger children. These are also the most commonly prescribed medication for non-autistic children

    2. antibiotics, such as amoxycillin, for suspected or confirmed infections (autistic children tend to have more infections)

    3. asthma and allergy medications, including salbutamol inhalers, loratadine and oral steroids (autistic people have similar rates of allergies to non-autistic people)

    4. laxatives, such as lactulose, for constipation. Autistic people are at increased risk of constipation due to limited food preferences, rigid toilet habits, and difficulty recognising when they need to use the toilet.

    Autistic people are prescribed a range of medications for physical and mental health conditions.
    CandyRetriever/Shutterstock

    Multiple medications, or not enough

    Prescribing multiple medications at the same time is known as polypharmacy. This has become more of an issue for autistic people in Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia.

    One study found autistic children and young people from Aotearoa New Zealand received a mean (average) four medications in one year (versus 2.9 medications for non-autistic people). Some 57% were prescribed three or more medications at a time.

    Medications may work as well for people with and without autism. However, autistic people are more likely to have side effects. This might be due to heightened sensory sensitivities and the way medications affect the nervous system.

    Polypharmacy increases the risk of medication interactions. It is also likely to contribute to autistic people’s higher chance of dying early. A 2024 study confirms this occurs at double the rate of non-autistic people.

    Possible reasons for polypharmacy include:

    • lack of agreement between doctors and clear guidelines for prescribing medication

    • insufficient access to non-medication options to manage health conditions

    • greater likelihood of being treated during crises. For instance, behaviour that escalates to the point of personal or property damage and family burnout may require medication to allow a child to stay at home.

    However, at times, autistic people may not receive appropriate medications. This may be because doctors do not have clear prescribing guidelines or vary in how they prescribe. It can also be because someone or their family are concerned about side effects.

    Sometimes there are concerns about medication side effects.
    Bee Bonnet/Shutterstock

    The right dose for the right time

    We should aim to use the appropriate medication for the appropriate period of time for the growing number of people diagnosed with autism.

    It’s essential prescribers have clearer prescribing guidance, aim for the lowest possible dose of medication, actively address polypharmacy and regularly monitor autistic people with a view to weaning medications as soon as possible.

    Earlier identification and support for autistic children and their families would reduce the chance of crises and stress-related health conditions.

    We need health services that can better meet the needs of autistic people. Flexible, tailored care should be provided in an environment that matches someone’s sensory needs. For instance, an environment should not be too bright or loud, or overstimulating. Ideally, this will have been designed with autistic people.

    We also need an adequately resourced health system to provide autistic people with timely, appropriate, safe and equitable care.

    Hiran Thabrew is a child and adolescent psychiatrist, paediatrician, autism researcher and New Zealand Chair for the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. He has never received any pharmaceutical company sponsorship for his clinical or research activities.

    ref. Which medications are commonly prescribed for autistic people and why? – https://theconversation.com/which-medications-are-commonly-prescribed-for-autistic-people-and-why-251715

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Research – Australia’s credit and charge card payments to near $300 billion in 2025 amid consumer and e-commerce growth, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Australia’s credit and charge card payments market continues to demonstrate resilience and growth, underpinned by rising consumer spending, robust payment infrastructure, and an expanding e-commerce landscape.

    Enhanced by value-added incentives such as cashback offers, flexible repayment options, and installment facilities, the market is set to maintain an upward trajectory, reaching AUD453.9 billion ($299.7 billion) in 2025 despite evolving global economic challenges, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s Payment Cards Analytics reveals that credit and charge card payment value in Australia registered a growth of 6.3% in 2024, driven by the rise in consumer spending.

    Kartik Challa, Senior Banking and Payments Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Public awareness of the advantages associated with credit card usage is widespread in Australia. Consumers frequently utilize these cards to capitalize on benefits, including cashback offers and rewards programs. Bolstered by a robust payment infrastructure and a flourishing e-commerce market, credit and charge cards have gained marked preference among the Australian consumers.”

     

    Australians are increasingly using credit and charge cards for payments, with the frequency of payments per card standing at 225.5 times in 2024 and is anticipated to further rise to 239.5 in 2029. This is driven by banks offering flexible repayment options and value-added benefits such as cashback, reward points, discounts, and installment facilities.

    CommBank offers an installment plan “SurePay,” allowing its credit card holders to convert purchases into three, six, or 12 months. Likewise, National Australia Bank’s  NAB Now Pay Later option allows customers to split the cost of purchases into four interest-free repayments over six weeks.

    Well-developed payment infrastructure has been another key driver for the rise of credit and charge cards in Australia. The number of POS terminals per million inhabitants in Australia stood at 39,031 in 2024, which is higher compared to some of its peers such as China (33,631), Hong Kong (27,184), and India (6,964), though there is significant room for further expansion of POS infrastructure.

    Rising e-commerce payments is another factor contributing to the growth in credit and charge card usage. According to GlobalData’s E-Commerce Analytics, credit and charge cards are the preferred payment method for online payments, with 22.5% share in 2024.

    Meanwhile, to mitigate the risk of over-indebtedness, banks offer debt reconsolidation programs and credit card balance transfer programs to their customers to enable them to merge multiple loans (including credit card debt) into a single, monthly installment and transfer their credit card balance without interest. For example, ANZ offers balance transfer options that enable customers to consolidate debt by transferring outstanding balances from non-ANZ credit cards to a new or existing ANZ credit card.

    Challa concludes: “Australia’s credit and charge card market is poised for sustained growth over the next five years, driven by the economic recovery, growing consumer spending, and growth in e-commerce payments. However, challenges such as the ongoing global trade tariff dispute among major countries, and geopolitical uncertainties remain bottlenecks to the market. Overall, the value of credit and charge card payments is forecast to register a slower compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% between 2025 and 2029 to reach AUD539.1 billion ($356 billion) in 2029.”

    About GlobalData

    4,000 of the world’s largest companies, including over 70% of FTSE 100 and 60% of Fortune 100 companies, make more timely and better business decisions thanks to GlobalData’s unique data, expert analysis and innovative solutions, all in one platform. GlobalData’s mission is to help our clients decode the future to be more successful and innovative across a range of industries, including the healthcare, consumer, retail, financial, technology and professional services sectors.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Kennedy and Dr. Oz Meet With Gov. Mike Braun

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

    Sec. Kennedy and Dr. Oz joined Gov. Mike Braun in Indiana to highlight the state’s bold commitment to improving public health. From modernizing SNAP nutrition standards to promoting fitness and wellness in schools, Indiana is paving the way for a healthier future. HHS is proud to support state leaders taking action to Make America Healthy Again!

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov

    http://www.Twitter.com/HHSGov | http://www.Facebook.com/HHS http://www.Instagram.com/HHSGov
    http://www.LinkedIn.com/company/us-department-of-health-and-human-services

    HHS Privacy Policy: http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJHPa4jH4sg

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: India/Pakistan, Palestine & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (29 April 2025) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

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

    Highlights:
    India/Pakistan
    Security Council
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Secretary-General/Syria
    Lebanon
    General Assembly/Pope
    Security Council/Ukraine
    Afghanistan
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Haiti
    Locusts
    Noon Briefing Guest
    Financial Contribution

    INDIA/PAKISTAN
    This morning, the Secretary-General spoke separately by telephone with Muhammad Shebaz Sharif, the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and he also spoke earlier in the day with Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, the Minister for External Affairs of the Republic of India. In his phone calls, the Secretary-General reiterated his strong condemnation of the 22 April terrorist attack that took place in Jammu and Kashmir. The Secretary-General noted the importance of pursuing justice and accountability for these attacks through lawful means.
    The Secretary-General also expressed his deep concern at the rising tensions between India and Pakistan and he also underscored the need to avoid a confrontation that could result in tragic consequences.
    The Secretary-General offered his Good Offices to support any de-escalation efforts.

    SECURITY COUNCIL
    The Secretary-General, in a briefing to the Security Council this morning on Israel and Palestine, said that the promise of a two-State solution is at risk of dwindling to the point of disappearance. The political commitment to this long-standing goal is farther than it has ever been, he said.
    The world cannot afford to watch the two-State solution disappear, heasserted. Political leaders face clear choices — the choice to be silent, the choice to acquiesce, or the choice is to act.
    Regarding Gaza, Mr. Guterres said that the recent ceasefire had brought a glimmer of hope – the long-sought release of hostages and the delivery of lifesaving humanitarian relief. But those embers of opportunity were cruelly extinguished with the shattering of the ceasefire on 18 March.
    The Secretary-General said that he was alarmed by statements by Israeli government officials about the use of humanitarian aid as a tool for military pressure. Aid is non-negotiable, he said. Israel must protect civilians and must agree to relief schemes and facilitate them, he said.
    The Secretary-General told the Council that there must be no hindrance to humanitarian aid – including through the vital work of UNRWA. We need the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and we need a permanent ceasefire.
    Mr. Guterres added that it’s time to stop the repeated displacement of the Gaza population – along with any question of forced displacement outside of Gaza, and the trampling of international law must end.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=29%20April%202025

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

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Join More Than 100 Congressional Democrats in Demanding Social Security Head Keep Field Offices Open Across the Nation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    April 30, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.]  U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) in a coalition of over 100 Congressional Democrats in writing to Acting Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA) Leland Dudek to demand that he keep Social Security field offices open. This letter comes after multiple reports revealed that Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) directed SSA to close field offices across the country—only to reverse course after public backlash and deny the plans altogether. Given the lack of transparency surrounding the status of field offices nationwide, the lawmakers pressed Dudek to ensure that DOGE does not close the offices that so many Social Security beneficiaries rely on for services and assistance.

    “[B]eneficiaries need the opportunity to seek assistance from SSA in person…Closing any of these field offices will make it harder for individuals to access their benefits,” wrote the lawmakers. 

    Last Thursday, Social Security Works, Indivisible, P Street and AFGE organized volunteers to deliver copies of the lawmakers’ letter to field offices across the country—in blue, red, and purple counties—in support of the field offices and their staff. Volunteers plan to visit at least 50 offices in Arizona, Nebraska, California, New Jersey, Colorado, Nevada, Florida, New York, Georgia, Ohio, Illinois, Oregon, Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, Massachusetts, Vermont, Maryland, Washington, Michigan, Wisconsin and North Carolina.

    Along with Duckworth, Durbin, Warren, Wyden, Schumer and Gillibrand, the letter is also co-signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH) Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).

    Full text of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lapwai Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Prison for Murder

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COEUR D’ALENE – William Oliver Eyle, 21, of Lapwai, was sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for second degree murder, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.

    According to court records, on May 12, 2023, Eyle murdered Elias Albert Spencer on the Nez Perce Indian Reservation.  There was no fight or disagreement between the two individuals. Eyle’s car broke down in front of Elias’ home and when Elias went to see what was going on, Eyle shot him five times.  Elias’ family found his body on the sidewalk in front of the home. According to the statements from the sentencing, Eyle fled the area, destroyed evidence and remained a fugitive for months.  He was finally located by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshals Service toward the end of November 2023.  Eyle was 19 years at the time he murdered Elias.

    Eyle pleaded guilty to second degree murder on January 29, 2025. United States District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Eyle to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.  Eyle’s mother, Jacinta Wheeler, pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony and was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on November 14, 2024, due to her failure to report the murder and her advice to Eyle to flee.

    “The murder of Elias Albert Spencer was a senseless act of violence.”  Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott said.  “My heart goes out to Elias’ family, whose strength and resolve during this tragedy has been inspiring.  While this sentence cannot bring Elias back, hopefully it provides them some measure of closure, while also preventing future acts of violence by this defendant for a lengthy time.”

    “William Eyle’s actions profoundly impacted not only the victim’s family but the community’s sense of safety,” said Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the Salt Lake City FBI.  “While nothing will bring their loved one back, we hope the sentence provides some sense of justice to Elias Spencer’s family and friends.  The FBI is committed to working with our partners to solve MMIP cases and ensure safety on reservations.”

    Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Nez Perce Tribal Police, which led to the charges.  Assistants U.S. Attorneys Traci Whelan and Adam Johnson prosecuted the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Unanimously Passes Rep. Houchin’s Rural Broadband Protection Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (Indiana 09)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the House of Representatives passed the Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2025, led by Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) to strengthen transparency and accountability in federal broadband programs. 

    The bill, which passed unanimously by voice vote, ensures that taxpayer dollars invested in rural broadband projects reach the communities that need them most. It also guarantees that providers selected for funding are capable of delivering reliable, high-speed internet access. 

    “Across Indiana and throughout rural America, families, farmers, students, and small business owners are still struggling with slow or unreliable internet access,” said Rep. Houchin. “That’s not just an inconvenience — it’s a barrier to opportunity, education, healthcare, and economic growth. When Congress invests in rural broadband, we must make sure those dollars are reaching the communities they’re meant to serve.”

    The legislation directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a formal vetting process for applicants seeking broadband funding through the Universal Service Fund’s high-cost programs. Providers will be evaluated based on their experience, technical capability, and demonstrated ability to deploy broadband infrastructure efficiently and effectively.

    The Rural Broadband Protection Act now advances to the Senate for further consideration. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Finward Bancorp Announces Earnings for the Quarter Ended March 31, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MUNSTER, Ind., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Finward Bancorp (Nasdaq: FNWD) (the “Bancorp”), the holding company for Peoples Bank (the “Bank”), today announced that net income available to common stockholders was $456 thousand, or $0.11 per diluted share, for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, as compared to $2.1 million, or $0.49 per diluted share for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, and as compared to $9.3 million or $2.17 per diluted share for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. Selected performance metrics are as follows for the periods presented:

    Finward Bancorp
    Quarterly Financial Report
                               
    Performance Ratios   Quarter ended,
    (unaudited)          March 31,   December 31,   September 30,   June 30,   March 31,
              2025   2024   2024   2024   2024
    Return on equity   1.17 %   5.39 %   1.60 %   0.39 %   24.97 %
    Return on assets   0.09 %   0.41 %   0.12 %   0.03 %   1.77 %
    Tax adjusted net interest margin (Non-GAAP) 2.95 %   2.79 %   2.66 %   2.67 %   2.57 %
    Noninterest income / average assets   0.43 %   0.72 %   0.55 %   0.50 %   2.57 %
    Noninterest expense / average assets   2.81 %   2.75 %   2.80 %   2.79 %   2.86 %
    Efficiency ratio     93.11 %   87.20 %   97.32 %   98.56 %   59.41 %
                                     

    “Margin continued to expand in the first quarter as deposits repriced lower, continuing the trend we have seen over the past year. With economic uncertainty potentially increasing, we are maintaining our focus on capital and credit quality. Non-performing loans improved in the first quarter, and our Provision for Credit Loss was driven by model-related factors that reflect the broader trends we see in the economy. Seasonal and timing factors impacted operating expense and non-interest income, and we see opportunity in both areas as the year moves forward,” said Benjamin Bochnowski, CEO. “Our team remains focused on continued improvement in operating results, and on serving our customers and communities.”  

    Highlights of the current period include:

    • Net Interest Margin – The net interest margin for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, was 2.81%, compared to 2.65% for the quarter ended December 31, 2024. The tax-adjusted net interest margin (a non-GAAP measure) for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, was 2.95%, compared to 2.79% for the quarter ended December 31, 2024. The increased net interest margin for the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to December 31, 2024 is primarily the result of reduced deposit and borrowing costs as a result of the Federal Reserve’s reduction of federal funds rates during the last four months of 2024. See Table 1 at the end of this press release for a reconciliation of the tax-adjusted net interest margin to the GAAP net interest margin.
    • Funding – As of March 31 2025, deposits totaled $1.8 billion, a decrease of $10.2 million, or 0.6% compared to December 31, 2024, which also totaled $1.8 billion. As of March 31, 2025, non-interest-bearing deposits totaled $281.5 million, an increase of $18.1 million or 6.9%, compared to December 31, 2024. Core deposits totaled $1.2 billion at both March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. Core deposits include checking, savings, and money market accounts and represented 68.9% of the Bancorp’s total deposits at March 31, 2025. As of March 31, 2025, balances for certificates of deposit totaled $544.8 million, compared to $560.3 million on December 31, 2024, a decrease of $15.5 million or 2.8%. The decline in total portfolio deposits is primarily related to cyclical flows and continued adjustments to deposit pricing. The increase in non-interest-bearing deposits is primarily attributable to inflows of business-related checking deposits after year-end. In addition, as of March 31, 2025, borrowings and repurchase agreements totaled $101.7 million, a decrease of $3.4 million or 3.2%, compared to December 31, 2024. The decrease in short-term borrowings was the result of cyclical inflows and outflows of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.

      As of March 31, 2025, 72% of our deposits are fully FDIC insured, and another 9% are further backed by the Indiana Public Deposit Insurance Fund. The Bancorp’s liquidity position remains strong with solid core deposit customer relationships, excess cash, debt securities, contractual loan repayments, and access to diversified borrowing sources. As of March 31, 2025, the Bancorp had available liquidity of $697 million including borrowing capacity from the FHLB and Federal Reserve facilities.

    • Securities Portfolio – Securities available for sale balances decreased by $3.5 million to $330.1 million as of March 31, 2025, compared to $333.6 million as of December 31, 2024. The decrease in securities available for sale was primarily due to continued portfolio runoff. Accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”) was $58.2 million as of March 31, 2025, compared to $58.1 million on December 31, 2024, a decline of $160.4 thousand, or 0.3%. The yield on the securities portfolio increased to 2.38% for the three months ended March 31, 2025 from 2.34% for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Management did not execute any securities sale transactions during the quarter.
    • Lending – The Bank’s aggregate loan portfolio totaled $1.5 billion on both March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. During the three months ended March 31, 2025, the Bank originated $36.7 million in new commercial loans, compared to $25.0 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024. The loan portfolio represents 79.1% of earning assets and is comprised of 62.6% commercial-related credits. At March 31, 2025, the Bancorp’s portfolio loan balances in commercial real estate owner occupied properties totaled $236.9 million or 15.7% of total loan balances and commercial real estate non-owner-occupied properties totaled $302.8 million or 20.1% of total loan balances. Of the $302.8 million in commercial real estate non-owner-occupied properties balances, loans collateralized by office buildings represented $40.4 million or 2.7% of total loan balances.
    • Asset Quality – At March 31, 2025, non-performing loans totaled $12.5 million, compared to $13.7 million at December 31, 2024, a decrease of $1.3 million or 9.1%. The Bank’s ratio of non-performing loans to total loans was 0.84% at March 31, 2025, compared to 0.91% at December 31, 2024. The Bank’s ratio of non-performing assets to total assets was 0.69% at March 31, 2025, compared to 0.74% at December 31, 2024. Management maintains a vigilant oversight of nonperforming loans through proactive relationship management.

      The allowance for credit losses (ACL) on loans totaled $17.9 million at March 31, 2025, or 1.20% of total loans receivable, compared to $16.9 million at December 31, 2024, or 1.12% of total loans receivable, an increase of $1 million or 6.2%. The Bank’s unused commitment reserve, included in other liabilities, totaled $2.1 million at March 31, 2025, compared to $2.7 million at December 31, 2024, a decrease of $622 thousand or 22.7%. 

      For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, the Bank recorded a net provision for credit loss expense totaling $454 thousand based on historical loss rate updates, migration of loan and unfunded commitment segment balances, and other factors within the Bank’s ACL modeling. The first quarter’s provision expense consisted of a $1.1 million provision for credit losses on loans, and a $623 thousand reversal of provision for credit losses on unused commitments. The decrease in the Bank’s unused commitment reserve was primarily due to lower loss rates. For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, net charge-offs, totaled $32.7 thousand, compared to $2.2 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, a decrease of $2.1 million, or a decline of 97.2%. The ACL as a percentage of non-performing loans, or coverage ratio, was 143.8% at March 31, 2025 compared to 123.1% at December 31, 2024.  

    • Operating Expenses  Non-interest expense as a percentage of average assets was 2.81% for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, as compared to 2.75% for the quarter ended December 31, 2024. The increase in non-interest expenses quarter over quarter was primarily attributable to increased compensation and benefit expenses offset by reduced data processing and marketing expenses. The Bank remains focused on identifying additional operating efficiencies and third-party expense reductions. Compensation and benefits expense is up 3.7% for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2024, primarily due to annual merit-based salary increases during the quarter ended March 31, 2025.
    • Capital Adequacy  As of March 31, 2025, the Bank’s tier 1 capital to adjusted average assets ratio was 8.48%, an improvement of 0.01% compared to 8.47% at December 31, 2024. The Bank’s capital continues to exceed all applicable regulatory capital requirements as set forth in 12 C.F.R. § 324. The Bancorp’s tangible book value per share was $29.55 at March 31, 2025, up from $29.48 as of December 31, 2024 (a non-GAAP measure). Tangible common equity to total assets was 6.26% at March 31, 2025, up from 6.17% as of December 31, 2024 (a non-GAAP measure). Excluding accumulated other comprehensive losses, tangible book value per share increased to $43.02 as of March 31, 2025, from $42.94 as of December 31, 2024 (a non-GAAP measure). See Table 1 at the end of this press release for a reconciliation of the tangible book value per share, tangible book value per share adjusted for other accumulated comprehensive losses, tangible common equity as a percentage of total assets, and tangible common equity as a percentage of total assets adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive losses to the related GAAP ratios.

    Disclosures Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    Reported amounts are presented in accordance with GAAP. In this press release, the Bancorp also provides certain financial measures identified as non-GAAP. The Bancorp’s management believes that the non-GAAP information, which consists of tangible common equity, tangible common equity adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive losses, tangible book value per share, tangible book value per share adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive losses, tangible common equity/total assets, tax-adjusted net interest margin, and efficiency ratio, which can vary from period to period, provides a better comparison of period to period operating performance. The adjusted net interest income and tax-adjusted net interest margin measures recognize the income tax savings when comparing taxable and tax-exempt assets. Interest income and yields on tax-exempt securities and loans are presented using the current federal income tax rate of 21%. Management believes that it is standard practice in the banking industry to present net interest income and net interest margin on a fully tax-equivalent basis and that it may enhance comparability for peer comparison purposes. Additionally, the Bancorp believes this information is utilized by regulators and market analysts to evaluate a company’s financial condition and, therefore, such information is useful to investors. These disclosures should not be viewed as a substitute for financial results in accordance with GAAP, nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures which may be presented by other companies. Refer to Table 1 – Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of this document for a reconciliation of the non-GAAP measures identified herein and their most comparable GAAP measures.

    About Finward Bancorp
    Finward Bancorp is a locally managed and independent financial holding company headquartered in Munster, Indiana, whose activities are primarily limited to holding the stock of Peoples Bank. Peoples Bank provides a wide range of personal, business, electronic and wealth management financial services from its 26 locations in Lake and Porter Counties in Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland. Finward Bancorp’s common stock is quoted on The NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC under the symbol FNWD. The website ibankpeoples.com provides information on Peoples Bank’s products and services, and Finward Bancorp’s investor relations.

    Forward Looking Statements
    This press release may contain forward-looking statements regarding the financial performance, business prospects, growth and operating strategies of the Bancorp. For these statements, the Bancorp claims the protections of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements in this communication should be considered in conjunction with the other information available about the Bancorp, including the information in the filings the Bancorp makes with the SEC. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations or forecasts of future events and are not guarantees of future performance. The forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by using words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “will” and similar expressions in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance.

    Although management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially include: changes in domestic and international trade policies, including tariffs and other non-tariff barriers, and the effects of such changes on the Bank and its customers; the Bank’s ability to demonstrate compliance with the terms of the previously disclosed consent order and memorandum of understanding entered into between the Bank and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) and Indiana Department of Financial Institutions (“DFI”), or to demonstrate compliance to the satisfaction of the FDIC and/or DFI within prescribed time frames; the Bank’s agreement under the memorandum of understanding to refrain from paying cash dividends without prior regulatory approval; changes in asset quality and credit risk; the inability to sustain revenue and earnings growth; changes in interest rates, market liquidity, and capital markets, as well as the magnitude of such changes, which may reduce net interest margins; the aggregate effects of inflation experienced in recent years; further deterioration in the market value of securities held in the Bancorp’s investment securities portfolio, whether as a result of macroeconomic factors or otherwise; customer acceptance of the Bancorp’s products and services; customer borrowing, repayment, investment, and deposit practices; customer disintermediation; the introduction, withdrawal, success, and timing of business initiatives; competitive conditions; the inability to realize cost savings or revenues or to implement integration plans and other consequences associated with mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures; economic conditions; and the impact, extent, and timing of technological changes, capital management activities, regulatory actions by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and Indiana Department of Financial Institutions, and other actions of the Federal Reserve Board and legislative and regulatory actions and reforms. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements are discussed in the Bancorp’s reports (such as the Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K) filed with the SEC and available at the SEC’s Internet website (www.sec.gov). All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning matters attributable to the Bancorp or any person acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above. Except as required by law, The Bancorp does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statement is made.

    In addition to the above factors, we also caution that the actual amounts and timing of any future common stock dividends or share repurchases will be subject to various factors, including our capital position, financial performance, capital impacts of strategic initiatives, market conditions, and regulatory and accounting considerations, as well as any other factors that our Board of Directors deems relevant in making such a determination. Therefore, there can be no assurance that we will repurchase shares or pay any dividends to holders of our common stock, or as to the amount of any such repurchases or dividends.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
    CONTACT SHAREHOLDER SERVICES
    (219) 853-7575

     
    Finward Bancorp
    Quarterly Financial Report
                                 
    Performance Ratios Quarter ended,
    (unaudited) March 31,   December 31,   September 30,   June 30,   March 31,
      2025   2024   2024   2024   2024
    Return on equity  1.17%     5.39%     1.60%     0.39%     24.97%  
    Return on assets  0.09%     0.41%     0.12%     0.03%     1.77%  
    Yield on loans  5.25%     5.27%     5.22%     5.11%     5.02%  
    Yield on security investments  2.38%     2.34%     2.37%     2.43%     2.37%  
    Total yield on earning assets  4.71%     4.74%     4.70%     4.64%     4.52%  
    Cost of interest-bearing deposits 2.17%     2.41%     2.47%     2.37%     2.36%  
    Cost of repurchase agreements 3.35%     3.65%     4.04%     3.86%     3.88%  
    Cost of borrowed funds 4.12%     4.31%     4.56%     4.95%     4.62%  
    Total cost of interest-bearing liabilities 2.28%     2.53%     2.63%     2.55%     2.53%  
    Tax adjusted net interest margin1 2.95%     2.79%     2.66%     2.67%     2.57%  
    Noninterest income / average assets 0.43%     0.72%     0.55%     0.50%     2.57%  
    Noninterest expense / average assets 2.81%     2.75%     2.80%     2.79%     2.86%  
    Efficiency ratio 93.11%     87.20%     97.32%     98.56%     59.41%  
                                 
    Non-performing assets to total assets  0.69%     0.74%     0.73%     0.61%     0.64%  
    Non-performing loans to total loans 0.84%     0.91%     0.92%     0.75%     0.78%  
    Allowance for credit losses to non-performing loans 143.84%     123.10%     134.12%     161.17%     159.12%  
    Allowance for credit losses to loans receivable 1.20%     1.12%     1.23%     1.22%     1.25%  
                                 
    Basic earnings per share $0.11     $0.49     $0.14     $0.03     $2.18  
    Diluted earnings per share  $0.11     $0.49     $0.14     $0.03     $2.17  
    Stockholders’ equity / total assets 7.44%     7.35%     7.69%     7.16%     7.32%  
    Book value per share  $35.10     $35.10     $36.99     $34.45     $35.17  
    Closing stock price $29.10     $28.11     $31.98     $24.52     $24.60  
    Price to earnings per share ratio 68.08     14.25     56.21     182.60     2.82  
    Dividends declared per common share $0.12     $0.12     $0.12     $0.12     $0.12  
                                 
                                 
    Non-GAAP Performance Ratios Quarter ended,
    (unaudited) March 31,    December 31,    September 30,    June 30,    March 31, 
      2025    2024    2024    2024    2024 
    Net interest margin – tax equivalent  2.95%     2.79%     2.66%     2.67%     2.57%  
    Tangible book value per diluted share $29.55     $29.48     $31.28     $28.67     $29.30  
    Tangible book value per diluted share adjusted for AOCL $43.02     $42.94     $42.47     $42.33     $42.36  
    Tangible common equity to total assets 6.26%     6.17%     6.51%     5.95%     6.09%  
    Tangible common equity to total assets adjusted for AOCL 9.12%     8.99%     8.83%     8.79%     8.81%  
                                 
    (1) Tax adjusted net interest margin represents a non-GAAP financial measure. See the non-GAAP reconciliation table section captioned “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for further disclosure regarding non-GAAP financial measures
                             
    Quarter Ended                        
    (Dollars in thousands) Average Balances, Interest, and Rates  
    (unaudited) March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024  
      Average Balance   Interest   Rate (%)   Average Balance   Interest   Rate (%)  
    ASSETS                        
    Interest bearing deposits in other financial institutions $ 53,553     $ 540   4.03   $ 50,271     $ 650   5.17  
    Federal funds sold   1,375       12   3.49     891       9   4.04  
    Securities available-for-sale   336,060       1,998   2.38     343,411       2,011   2.34  
    Loans receivable   1,498,312       19,655   5.25     1,504,233       19,802   5.27  
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock   6,547       136   8.31     6,547       123   7.51  
    Total interest earning assets   1,895,847     $ 22,341   4.71     1,905,353     $ 22,595   4.74  
    Cash and non-interest bearing deposits in other financial institutions   27,919               27,360            
    Allowance for credit losses   (16,946 )             (18,110 )          
    Other noninterest bearing assets   153,148               154,707            
    Total assets $ 2,059,968             $ 2,069,310            
                             
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                        
    Interest-bearing deposits $ 1,481,377     $ 8,044   2.17   $ 1,465,198     $ 8,811   2.41  
    Repurchase agreements   41,631       349   3.35     43,372       396   3.65  
    Borrowed funds   61,613       635   4.12     72,536       781   4.31  
    Total interest bearing liabilities   1,584,621     $ 9,028   2.28     1,581,106     $ 9,988   2.53  
    Non-interest bearing deposits   279,013               289,467            
    Other noninterest bearing liabilities   40,923               42,944            
    Total liabilities   1,904,557               1,913,517            
    Total stockholders’ equity   155,411               155,793            
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 2,059,968             $ 2,069,310            
                             
    Net interest income     $ 13,313           $ 12,607      
    Return on average assets   0.09 %             0.41 %          
    Return on average equity   1.17 %             5.39 %          
    Net interest margin (average earning assets)   2.81 %             2.65 %          
    Net interest margin (average earning assets) – tax equivalent   2.95 %             2.79 %          
    Net interest spread   2.43 %             2.21 %          
    Ratio of interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities 1.20x           1.21x          
                             
    Finward Bancorp
    Quarterly Financial Report
                                 
    Balance Sheet Data                            
    (Dollars in thousands)                            
    (unaudited) March 31,    December 31,    September 30,    June 30,    March 31, 
      2025    2024    2024    2024    2024 
    ASSETS                            
                                 
    Cash and non-interest bearing deposits in other financial institutions $         18,563     $         17,883     $         23,071     $         19,061     $         16,418  
    Interest bearing deposits in other financial institutions 52,829     52,047     48,025     63,439     54,755  
    Federal funds sold 975     654     553     707     607  
                                 
    Total cash and cash equivalents 72,367     70,584     71,649     83,207     71,780  
                                 
    Securities available-for-sale 330,127     333,554     350,027     339,585     346,233  
    Loans held-for-sale 2,849     1,253     2,567     1,185     667  
    Loans receivable, net of deferred fees and costs 1,491,696     1,508,976     1,508,242     1,506,398     1,508,251  
    Less: allowance for credit losses (17,955 )   (16,911 )   (18,516 )   (18,330 )   (18,805 )
    Net loans receivable 1,473,741     1,492,065     1,489,726     1,488,068     1,489,446  
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock 6,547     6,547     6,547     6,547     6,547  
    Accrued interest receivable 7,821     7,721     7,442     7,695     7,583  
    Premises and equipment 46,680     47,259     47,912     48,696     47,795  
    Foreclosed real estate                 71  
    Cash value of bank owned life insurance 33,712     33,514     33,312     33,107     32,895  
    Goodwill 22,395     22,395     22,395     22,395     22,395  
    Other intangible assets 1,635     1,860     2,203     2,555     2,911  
    Other assets 41,840     43,947     40,882     44,027     43,459  
                                 
    Total assets $    2,039,714     $    2,060,699     $    2,074,662     $    2,077,067     $    2,071,782  
                                 
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                            
                                 
    Deposits:                            
    Non-interest bearing $       281,461     $       263,324     $       285,157     $       286,784     $       296,959  
    Interest bearing 1,468,923     1,497,242     1,463,653     1,469,970     1,450,519  
    Total 1,750,384     1,760,566     1,748,810     1,756,754     1,747,478  
    Repurchase agreements 45,053     40,116     43,038     42,973     41,137  
    Borrowed funds 56,657     65,000     85,000     85,000     90,000  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities 35,813     43,603     38,259     43,709     41,586  
                                 
    Total liabilities 1,887,907     1,909,285     1,915,107     1,928,436     1,920,201  
                                 
    Commitments and contingencies                            
                                 
    Stockholders’ Equity:                            
                                 
    Preferred stock, no par or stated value;
        10,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding
                     
    Common stock, no par or stated value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; 
       shares issued and outstanding:  March 31, 2025 – 4,324,485
                                    December 31, 2024 – 4,313,698
                     
                                                                     
    Additional paid-in capital 70,132     70,034     69,916     69,778     69,727  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss (58,244 )   (58,084 )   (48,241 )   (58,939 )   (56,313 )
    Retained earnings 139,919     139,464     137,880     137,792     138,167  
                                 
    Total stockholders’ equity 151,807     151,414     159,555     148,631     151,581  
                                 
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $    2,039,714     $    2,060,699     $    2,074,662     $    2,077,067     $    2,071,782  
                                 
    Finward Bancorp
    Quarterly Financial Report
                                 
    Consolidated Statements of Income                                
    (Dollars in thousands) Quarter Ended,
    (unaudited) March 31,   December 31,   September 30,   June 30,   March 31,
      2025   2024   2024   2024   2024
    Interest income:                            
      Loans $ 19,655     $ 19,802     $ 19,660     $ 19,174     $ 18,879  
      Securities & short-term investments 2,686     2,793     2,812     2,953     3,105  
      Total interest income 22,341     22,595     22,472     22,127     21,984  
    Interest expense:                            
      Deposits 8,045     8,812     8,946     8,610     8,794  
      Borrowings 983     1,176     1,520     1,463     1,410  
      Total interest expense 9,028     9,988     10,466     10,073     10,204  
    Net interest income 13,313     12,607     12,006     12,054     11,780  
    Provision for credit losses 454     (579 )       76      
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses 12,859     13,186     12,006     11,978     11,780  
    Noninterest income:                            
      Fees and service charges 1,109     1,439     1,463     1,257     1,153  
      Wealth management operations 619     728     731     763     633  
      Gain on tax credit investment 67     1,236              
      Gain on sale of loans held-for-sale, net 230     328     338     320     152  
      Increase in cash value of bank owned life insurance 198     202     205     212     193  
      Gain (loss) on sale of real estate     (212 )       15     11,858  
      Loss on sale of securities, net                 (531 )
      Other 6     11     130     6     17  
      Total noninterest income 2,229     3,732     2,867     2,573     13,475  
    Noninterest expense:                            
      Compensation and benefits 7,372     6,628     6,963     7,037     7,109  
      Occupancy and equipment 2,111     2,045     2,181     2,116     1,908  
      Data processing 1,039     1,202     1,165     1,135     1,170  
      Federal deposit insurance premiums 433     457     435     397     501  
      Marketing 86     220     209     212     158  
      Professional and outside services 1,260     1,341     1,251     1,257     1,557  
      Technology 454     509     602     507     625  
      Other 1,716     1,845     1,668     1,756     1,976  
      Total noninterest expense 14,471     14,247     14,474     14,417     15,004  
    Income before income taxes 617     2,671     399     134     10,251  
    Income tax expenses (benefit) 161     569     (207 )   (9 )   972  
    Net income $ 456     $ 2,102     $ 606     $ 143     $ 9,279  
                                 
    Earnings per common share:                            
      Basic $ 0.11     $ 0.49     $ 0.14     $ 0.03     $ 2.18  
      Diluted $ 0.11     $ 0.49     $ 0.14     $ 0.03     $ 2.17  
                                 
                       
    Finward Bancorp
    Quarterly Financial Report
                       
    Asset Quality                  
    (Dollars in thousands)                  
    (unaudited) March 31,   December 31,   September 30,   June 30,   March 31,
      2025   2024   2024   2024   2024
    Nonaccruing loans $ 12,483     $ 13,738     $ 13,806     $ 11,079     $ 11,603  
    Accruing loans delinquent more than 90 days             294     215  
    Securities in non-accrual 1,630     1,419     1,440     1,371     1,442  
    Foreclosed real estate                 71  
    Total nonperforming assets $ 14,113     $ 15,157     $ 15,246     $ 12,744     $ 13,331  
                       
    Allowance for credit losses (ACL):                  
    ACL specific allowances for collateral dependent loans $ 259     $ 284     $ 1,821     $ 1,327     $ 1,455  
    ACL general allowances for loan portfolio 17,696     16,627     16,695     17,003     17,351  
    Total ACL $ 17,955     $ 16,911     $ 18,516     $ 18,330     $ 18,806  
                       
    (Dollars in thousands)                       Minimum Required To Be
    (unaudited)             Minimum Required For   Well Capitalized Under Prompt
        Actual   Capital Adequacy Purposes   Corrective Action Regulations
    March 31, 2025   Amount Ratio   Amount Ratio   Amount Ratio
    Common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets   $178,036   11.02%     $72,679   4.50%     $104,981   6.50%  
    Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets   $178,036   11.02%     $96,906   6.00%     $129,207   8.00%  
    Total capital to risk-weighted assets   $198,107   12.27%     $129,207   8.00%     $161,509   10.00%  
    Tier 1 capital to adjusted average assets   $178,036   8.48%     $84,019   4.00%     $105,023   5.00%  
    Table 1 – Reconciliation of the Non-GAAP Performance Measures         
                       
    (Dollars in thousands) Quarter Ended,
    (unaudited) March 31,
    2025
      December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
    Calculation of tangible common equity         
    Total stockholder’s equity $ 151,807     $ 151,414     $ 159,555     $ 148,631     $ 151,581  
    Goodwill (22,395 )   (22,395 )   (22,395 )   (22,395 )   (22,395 )
    Other intangibles (1,635 )   (1,860 )   (2,203 )   (2,555 )   (2,911 )
    Tangible common equity $ 127,777     $ 127,159     $ 134,957     $ 123,681     $ 126,275  
                       
    Calculation of tangible common equity adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive loss         
    Tangible common equity $ 127,777     $ 127,159     $ 134,957     $ 123,681     $ 126,275  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss 58,244     58,084     48,241     58,939     56,313  
    Tangible common equity adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive loss $ 186,021     $ 185,243     $ 183,198     $ 182,620     $ 182,588  
                       
    Calculation of tangible book value per share         
    Tangible common equity $ 127,777     $ 127,159     $ 134,957     $ 123,681     $ 126,275  
    Shares outstanding 4,324,485     4,313,698     4,313,940     4,313,940     4,310,251  
    Tangible book value per diluted share $ 29.55     $ 29.48     $ 31.28     $ 28.67     $ 29.30  
                       
    Calculation of tangible book value per diluted share adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive loss         
    Tangible common equity adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive loss $ 186,021     $ 185,243     $ 183,198     $ 182,620     $ 182,588  
    Shares outstanding 4,324,485     4,313,698     4,313,940     4,313,940     4,310,251  
    Tangible book value per diluted share adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive loss $ 43.02     $ 42.94     $ 42.47     $ 42.33     $ 42.36  
                       
    Calculation of tangible common equity to total assets         
    Tangible common equity $ 127,777     $ 127,159     $ 134,957     $ 123,681     $ 126,275  
    Total assets 2,039,714     2,060,699     2,074,662     2,077,067     2,071,782  
    Tangible common equity to total assets 6.26%   6.17%   6.51%   5.95%   6.09%
                       
    Calculation of tangible common equity to total assets adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive loss         
    Tangible common equity adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive loss $ 186,021     $ 185,243     $ 183,198     $ 182,620     $ 182,588  
    Total assets 2,039,714     2,060,699     2,074,662     2,077,067     2,071,782  
    Tangible common equity to total assets adjusted for accumulated other comprehensive loss 9.12%   8.99%   8.83%   8.79%   8.81%
                       
    Calculation of tax adjusted net interest margin         
    Net interest income $ 13,313     $ 12,607     $ 12,006     $ 12,054     $ 11,780  
    Tax adjusted interest on securities and loans 670     674     678     677     699  
    Adjusted net interest income $ 13,983     13,281     12,684     12,731     $ 12,479  
    Total average earning assets 1,895,847     1,905,353     1,910,731     1,906,998     1,945,501  
    Tax adjusted net interest margin 2.95%   2.79%   2.66%   2.67%   2.57%
                       
    Efficiency ratio                  
    Total non-interest expense $ 14,471     $ 14,247     $ 14,474     $ 14,417     $ 15,004  
    Total revenue 15,542     16,339     14,873     14,627     25,255  
    Efficiency ratio 93.11%   87.20%   97.32%   98.56%   59.41%

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025 Governor’s Travel and Tourism Award Winners Announced

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Gov. Kelly Armstrong along with Commerce Tourism and Marketing Director Sara Otte Coleman and DMAND president Julie Rygg presented seven Governor’s Travel and Tourism Awards today during the North Dakota Travel Industry Conference in Minot.

    The Governor’s Travel and Tourism Awards recognize the passion and dedication of North Dakotans who have contributed to the growth of travel and tourism in North Dakota.

    “Tourism is a vital part of North Dakota’s economy, and we are honored to celebrate these exceptional leaders who work tirelessly to promote and enhance our legendary state,” Armstrong said. “Their creativity and dedication are key to attracting millions of visitors each year. We owe much to the more than 3,000 businesses and over 45,000 individuals in the travel industry who make North Dakota unique, create unforgettable experiences and contribute to our economic diversity.”

    2025 Award Winners:

    Heritage Award for a Front-line Tourism Employee

    Kelly Sorge
    Indian Hills Resort

    Kelly represents the third generation of family ownership, building a reputation for exceptional service at Lake Sakakawea. Her dedication to the tourism industry and ability to enhance visitor experiences have left a lasting impression on guests for over four decades. Kelly’s proactive approach to solving problems and developing resort amenities ensures guests have access to well-maintained facilities. Her community engagement and efforts to promote the Lake Sakakawea area have contributed to the overall growth of tourism. Her natural ability to connect with guests and her passion for service make her a trusted resource for visitors. Kelly’s exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment to ensuring every guest has a memorable experience make her a standout figure in the tourism industry.

    Sakakawea Award for a Behind-the-Scenes Tourism Employee

    Deanne Cunningham
    North Dakota Dept of Commerce

    As Commerce’s Visitor Sales and Services Manager, Deanne has made a profound impact on the state’s tourism industry over her 26-year career. Known for her dedication and expertise in group travel, Deanne has developed meticulous itineraries and facilitated FAM tours, building strong partnerships with local tourism entities. During her 26 years at North Dakota tourism, Deanne has provided trip planning assistance to thousands and worked with hundreds of tour operators on itineraries throughout our great state. Her focus on exceptional customer service has driven longer stays and increased visitor spending. Deanne’s “can-do” attitude and genuine friendliness are integral to North Dakota’s welcoming image. Her contributions have significantly shaped the tourism landscape, encouraging all to “Be Legendary”!

    Amplifier Award for Marketing Excellence

    Brock White
    Marketing Campaign for Watford City

    Brock has been a driving force in elevating Watford City’s profile through innovative marketing and communication strategies. His creative initiatives, such as the Living in McKenzie County Podcast, The Watford Minute, and the Watford City YouTube Channel, have significantly increased the city’s visibility and fostered a strong sense of community. Brock’s efforts have attracted new residents and visitors while strengthening local pride and engagement. His strategic marketing for Fox Hills Golf Course and the Rough Rider Center has further highlighted Watford City as a vibrant destination. Brock’s use of digital media has effectively connected the community and showcased the city’s unique charm and growth. His dedication to enhancing community identity and driving action has established Watford City as a new standard for marketing excellence in North Dakota.

    Flint Firestarter Award for a Tourism Development Project

    Jeff and Jennifer Gooss
    Wheelchairs and Walleyes

    The mission to make outdoor lake recreation accessible for everyone, regardless of physical ability, began in Beulah, North Dakota. Jeff and Jennifer Gooss led this initiative, resulting in the construction of the most inclusive wheelchair ramp and lift in the state at Beulah Bay Campground on Lake Sakakawea. This milestone was celebrated with the first-ever Wheelchairs & Walleyes charity tournament and a Children’s Mobility Awareness Day Festival on July 25, 2024. The impact was immediate, inspiring requests for similar projects across the region. Jeff and Jennifer’s goal is to ensure every disabled individual can experience the joy of lake life. They are now partnering with Devils Lake leaders to bring an ADA-accessible ramp and chair lift to Lakewood Park, with future expansions planned for Hazen Bay, on Lake Sakakawea. 

    Trailblazer Award for Tourism Innovation

    Joe Weigand
    Theodore Roosevelt Reprisor

    Joe Wiegand, the world’s best Theodore Roosevelt reprisor, has significantly boosted awareness and visitation to North Dakota, contributing to the state’s tourism growth. His portrayal of President Theodore Roosevelt across all fifty U.S. states highlights North Dakota’s historical and cultural richness. Performances at prestigious venues, including the White House and on the History Channel, extend the state’s brand image nationally. Regular appearances in Medora have made him synonymous with Roosevelt, drawing over 6,000 visits per year to his Teddy Roosevelt Show. With a tireless travel schedule hosting over 100 events annually, he positions himself as a key ambassador for North Dakota. His efforts include engaging with K-12 education and children’s hospitals, promoting North Dakota’s heritage. Dedication to connecting with tourists and fostering community pride makes him a vital figure in North Dakota’s tourism industry.

    Legend Award for Travel & Tourism Industry Leadership

    Stephanie Schoenrock
    Visit Minot

    Stephanie Schoenrock has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the tourism industry. With 20 years of experience in tourism marketing at KK Bold, the state fair, and Visit Minot, Stephanie has gained valuable public and private sector insights. As the director of Visit Minot, she has shown problem-solving skills and collaboration, packaging and cross promoting the Highway 2 corridor and leading multiple projects in downtown Minot. Stephanie’s efforts have made downtown Minot a destination, and she has also worked on the Union Silos Project, Norsk Høstfest, the North Dakota State Fair, and launched a new website. Her innovative and resilient planning for this year’s Travel Industry Conference and leadership in merging DMAND and TAP have created a more impactful voice for North Dakota’s travel and tourism industry. Stephanie’s dedication and vision have significantly contributed to the growth and success of tourism in the region.

    Wade Westin Award

    Darian Morsette
    MHA Tourism

    Darian Morsette, who served as the MHA Tribal Tourism Director and President of the North Dakota Native Tourism Alliance (NDNTA), was a visionary leader whose work transformed tourism in North Dakota. In 2016, Darian co-founded the NDNTA, uniting representatives from the five tribes that share geography with North Dakota to promote and preserve their culture and history. His leadership brought significant economic benefits to tribal communities and increased awareness of native cultures, stories and traditions. Darian’s numerous accomplishments included establishing the first Indian Relays, developing statewide and regional tours, and building strong relationships with neighboring communities. His dedication to his work and genuine care for those around him made him a beloved colleague and friend. Even in his final days, Darian remained committed to preparing his team for the future of tribal tourism. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to work with him.

    To learn more about the 2025 Governor’s Travel and Tourism Award Winners visit www.commerce.nd.gov/tourism-marketing/travel-industry-conference/governors-travel-and-tourism-award.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: President of Masonry Contractor Admits Conspiring to Bribe Amtrak Employee in Exchange for Millions of Dollars in Extra Work on 30th Street Station Project, Making a False Claim

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Mark Snedden, 69, of Munster, Indiana, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Court Judge Wendy Beetlestone to conspiracy to commit federal program bribery and making and presenting a false claim.

    The defendant was charged by information with those offenses last month.

    As presented in the information, on or about December 10, 2015, a masonry restoration contractor (the “Contractor”) was awarded a $58,473,000 contract by Amtrak to be the main contractor on a façade repair and restoration project at Amtrak’s 30th Street Station in Philadelphia.

    Federal funding supplied approximately 90 percent of the money Amtrak used to pay the Contractor for the repair and restoration of the 30th Street Station façade.

    The defendant was the sole owner and President of the Contractor with responsibility to provide executive oversight of the Vice Presidents of the Contractor and the Contractor’s performance on the 30th Street Station façade project.

    Donald Seefeldt, Lee Maniatis, and Khaled Dallo, each charged elsewhere, were Vice Presidents of the Contractor, with responsibility to supervise the Contractor’s performance on the 30th Street Station façade project.

    Amtrak Employee #1 was employed by Amtrak as the Project Manager on the repair and restoration project. In that capacity, Amtrak Employee #1 was responsible for communicating with the Contractor about the work being done on 30th Street Station. Amtrak Employee #1 was also responsible for reviewing the invoices, change orders, and requests for payment that the Contractor submitted to Amtrak. Amtrak Employee #1 had the power to approve or reject these invoices, change orders, and requests for payment. Although Amtrak Employee #1 did not have the singular authority to approve Amtrak payments to the Contractor, his approval was a critical step in that process.

    The contract between Amtrak and the Contractor prohibited Snedden and other Contractor officials from “offer[ing] to any Amtrak employee, agent, or representative any cash, gift, entertainment, commission, or kickback for the purpose of securing favorable treatment with regard to award or performance of any contract or agreement.”

    As detailed in the information and admitted to by the defendant, from in or about May 2016 through in or about November 2019, in Philadelphia, in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and elsewhere, the defendant conspired and agreed with others known and unknown to the United States Attorney, including Amtrak Employee #1, Lee Maniatis, Khaled Dallo, and Donald Seefeldt, to commit an offense against the United States, that is, to knowingly and corruptly give, offer, and agree to give, a thing of value to Amtrak Employee #1, intending to influence and reward Amtrak Employee #1 in connection with any business, transaction and series of transactions.

    Specifically, the information alleges, Donald Seefeldt, Lee Maniatis, Khaled Dallo, and others known to the United States Attorney, with Snedden’s knowledge and agreement, provided Amtrak Employee #1 with gifts and other things of value totaling approximately $323,686, including, among other things, paid vacations, jewelry, cash, dinners, entertainment, a dog, training for that dog, and transportation, to ensure that Amtrak Employee #1 used his power and influence to benefit the Contractor during the performance of the 30th Street Station Repair and Restoration Project.

    In return for these gifts and other things of value, Amtrak Employee #1 used his position at Amtrak to access internal agency information available only to Amtrak employees about the 30th Street Station Project and shared this internal information with the defendant and other officials with the Contractor.

    The information further alleges that Amtrak Employee #1 used his position at Amtrak to approve additional, more expensive changes to the 30th Street Station Repair and Restoration Project, thereby increasing the amount and value of the work to be performed by the Contractor. These additional expenses were reflected in a series of change orders or contract modifications. In total, Amtrak Employee #1 approved over $52 million of additional payments from Amtrak to the Contractor. Amtrak Employee #1 and officials with the Contractor falsely inflated the true costs of some of the work to be performed by the Contractor under these change orders, causing Amtrak to be substantially overbilled by over $2 million for the completion of the 30th Street Station Repair and Restoration Project.

    Snedden is scheduled to be sentenced on August 13 and faces a maximum possible term of 10 years’ imprisonment.

    The case was investigated by the FBI, the Amtrak Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jason Grenell.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: First Mid Bancshares, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MATTOON, Ill., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Mid Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: FMBH) (the “Company”) today announced its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    Highlights

    • Record high quarterly net income of $22.2 million, or $0.93 diluted EPS, an increase of $0.13
    • Adjusted net income (non-GAAP*) of $23.1 million, or $0.96 diluted EPS, an increase of $0.09 for the quarter
    • Net interest margin tax equivalent (non-GAAP*) expands to 3.60% helping drive fourth consecutive quarter of growth in net interest income
    • Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP*) increased 4.4% during the quarter
    • Board of Directors declares regular quarterly dividend of $0.24 per share

    “We kicked off 2025 with a record high quarterly net income that reflects our strategic focus on driving a higher return on assets,” said Joe Dively, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We delivered growth in both loans and deposits in what is typically a seasonally pressured quarter, and we significantly expanded our net interest margin through both an increase in earning asset yields and a decrease in the average cost of funds. In addition, we successfully completed our retail online system conversion during the quarter providing a better overall product for our customers and an improved platform to grow relationships across business lines.”

    “Lastly, while we recognize the uncertainty that exists in the macro environment, we are well-prepared with a disciplined credit culture and diversified revenue sources that position us to weather economic disruptions and continue to deliver exceptional service to our customers and communities,” Dively concluded.

    Net Interest Income
    Net interest income for the first quarter of 2025 increased by $0.5 million, or 0.8% compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. The increase was primarily the result of interest expense declining at a faster pace than interest income. Less days in the quarter drove declines in both interest income and expense. The decline in interest income included $0.5 million in lower accretion income, which totaled $2.9 million compared to $3.4 million of accretion income in the fourth quarter.

    In comparison to the first quarter of 2024, net interest income increased $3.9 million, or 7.1%. Interest income was lower by $0.1 million, inclusive of a decline in accretion income of $0.7 million compared to the first quarter last year. Interest expense was lower by $4.1 million compared to the same period last year.

    Net Interest Margin
    Net interest margin, on a tax equivalent basis (non-GAAP), was 3.60% for the first quarter of 2025 representing an increase of 19 basis points over the prior quarter driven by both an increase to earning asset yields and a decrease to funding costs. Excluding the decline in accretion income, the net interest margin increased 23 basis points in the period. Beginning with the first quarter of 2025, the Company changed the methodology utilized for the calculation of net interest margin to be more consistent with what is typically used by peer banks. The calculation now is the annualized net interest income on a tax equivalent basis divided by average interest earning assets. This change added five-basis points to the net interest margin in the first quarter 2025 compared to the fourth quarter of 2024.

    In comparison to the first quarter of last year, the net interest margin increased 35 basis points, with an average earning asset increase of 13 basis points, despite a five-basis point reduction to accretion income.

    Loan Portfolio
    Total loans ended the quarter at $5.70 billion, representing an increase of $26.4 million, or 0.5%, from the prior quarter, despite elevated payoffs during the period.   The increase was primarily in construction and land development, multifamily residential properties, and agriculture operating loans. The largest declines were in commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans. The average loan balance for the quarter declined compared to the fourth quarter, as a majority of the net loan growth occurred in March 2025.

    In comparison to the first quarter last year, loan growth increased $199.6 million, or 3.6%. The largest increases were in construction and development, agriculture operating lines, and commercial and industrial loans.

    Asset Quality
    The first quarter was another solid performance with respect to the Company’s asset quality metrics. The allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) ended the period at $70.1 million and the ACL to total loans ratio was 1.23%. In addition to the ACL, an unearned discount of $32.6 million remains at quarter end. Provision expense was recorded in the amount of $1.7 million with net charge-offs of $1.8 million in the quarter. Also, at the end of the first quarter, the ratio of non-performing loans to total loans was 0.47%, the ACL to non-performing loans was 263.4%, and the ratio of nonperforming assets to total assets was 0.38%. Nonperforming loans declined by $3.2 million to $26.6 million at quarter end. Special mention loans increased by $16.2 million to $74.0 million and substandard loans decreased $1.6 million to $33.9 million.

    Deposits
    Total deposits ended the quarter at $6.13 billion, which represented an increase of $73.3 million, or 1.2%, from the prior quarter. Noninterest bearing and time deposits were the primary drivers of the increase with growth of $65.4 million and $75.4 million for the period, respectively. The increase in time deposits was driven by a combination of the Company retaining a vast majority of customers with maturing CD’s, gaining new customers with its promotional offerings, and the addition of $52.0 million in brokered deposits as rates declined and the wholesale market became attractive. With the Company’s strong liquidity position, it was able to reduce outstanding FHLB borrowings and subordinated debt during the quarter by a combined $55.5 million helping lower overall funding costs.

    Noninterest Income
    Noninterest income for the first quarter of 2025 was $24.9 million compared to $26.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2024.   The decline was primarily driven by a $1.3 million gain on the sale of property in the fourth quarter. The current quarter included losses on securities sales of $0.2 million. Excluding those two items, noninterest income was flat versus the prior period. The decline of $0.5 million in wealth management revenue was as expected given the seasonal nature of farmland sales. Overall Ag Services revenue was $2.6 million in the period.   Insurance revenues achieved a record high quarter of revenue, despite a challenging operating environment for the industry. Debit card fee income was down $0.6 million primarily driven by less usage due to a pullback in consumer spending.

    In comparison to the first quarter of 2024, noninterest income increased $0.4 million, or 1.6%, with increases in wealth management and insurance as the key drivers. The combined increase for these two business lines was 8.2% year-over-year. Debit card fee income reflected the largest decline from lower consumer spending in the first quarter of 2025.

    Noninterest Expenses
    Noninterest expense for the first quarter of 2025 totaled $54.5 million compared to $56.3 million in the prior quarter. The current quarter included $1.0 million of nonrecurring expenses primarily related to the Company’s technology initiatives, including the successful conversion of its retail online platform during the first quarter, versus $2.2 million in nonrecurring costs in the prior quarter. Excluding these items, noninterest expenses were down $0.6 million with the largest decreases in salaries and benefits and debit card expenses.

    In comparison to the first quarter of 2024, noninterest expenses increased $1.1 million. The increase was primarily driven by annual compensation increases and a $0.9 million credit in the first quarter of last year for a debit card fee negotiated settlement agreement with its primary provider.

    The Company’s efficiency ratio, as adjusted in the non-GAAP reconciliation table herein, for the first quarter 2025 was 58.9% compared to 58.8% in the prior quarter and 59.1% for the same period last year.

    Capital Levels and Dividend
    The Company’s capital levels remained strong and above the “well capitalized” levels. Capital levels ended the period as follows:

    Total capital to risk-weighted assets 15.59%
    Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets 13.13%
    Common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets 12.73%
    Leverage ratio 10.73%
       

    Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP) increased $1.07, or 4.4% during the first quarter of 2025. The increase was driven primarily by earnings growth, which accounted for $0.79 of the increase. The remaining increase of $0.28 was the result of improvement in accumulated other comprehensive income from a lower unrealized loss position in the investment portfolio.

    The Company’s Board of Directors approved a regular quarterly dividend of $0.24 payable on May 30, 2025, for shareholders of record on May 15, 2025.

    About First Mid: First Mid Bancshares, Inc. (“First Mid”) is the parent company of First Mid Bank & Trust, N.A., First Mid Insurance Group, Inc., and First Mid Wealth Management Co. First Mid is a $7.6 billion community-focused organization that provides a full-suite of financial services including banking, wealth management, brokerage, Ag services, and insurance through a sizeable network of locations throughout Illinois, Missouri, Texas, and Wisconsin and a loan production office in the greater Indianapolis area. Together, our First Mid team takes great pride in providing solutions and services to the customers and communities and has done so over the last 160 years. More information about the Company is available on our website at www.firstmid.com.

    *Non-GAAP Measures: In addition to reports presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), this release contains certain non-GAAP financial measures. The Company believes that such non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with information useful in understanding the Company’s financial performance. Readers of this release, however, are urged to review these non-GAAP financial measures in conjunction with the GAAP results as reported. These non-GAAP financial measures are detailed as supplemental tables and include “Adjusted Net Earnings,” “Adjusted Diluted EPS,” “Efficiency Ratio,” “Net Interest Margin, tax equivalent,” “Tangible Book Value per Common Share,” “Adjusted Tangible Book Value per Common Share,” “Adjusted Return on Assets,” and “Adjusted Return on Average Common Equity”. While the Company believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with a broader understanding of the capital adequacy, funding profile and financial trends of the Company, this information should be considered as supplemental in nature and not as a substitute to the related financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures may also differ from the similar measures presented by other companies.

    Forward Looking Statements
    This document may contain certain forward-looking statements about First Mid, such as discussions of First Mid’s pricing and fee trends, credit quality and outlook, liquidity, new business results, expansion plans, anticipated expenses and planned schedules. First Mid intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies and expectations of First Mid are identified by use of the words “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” or similar expressions. Actual results could differ materially from the results indicated by these statements because the realization of those results is subject to many risks and uncertainties, including, among other things, changes in interest rates; general economic conditions and those in the market areas of First Mid; legislative and/or regulatory changes; monetary and fiscal policies of the U.S. Government, including policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Federal Reserve Board; the quality or composition of First Mid’s loan or investment portfolios and the valuation of those investment portfolios; demand for loan products; deposit flows; competition, demand for financial services in the market areas of First Mid; accounting principles, policies and guidelines; and the impact of pandemics on First Mid’s businesses. Additional information concerning First Mid, including additional factors and risks that could materially affect First Mid’s financial results, are included in First Mid’s filings with the SEC, including its Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Except as required under the federal securities laws or the rules and regulations of the SEC, we do not undertake any obligation to update or review any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Investor Contact:
    Austin Frank
    SVP, Shareholder Relations
    217-258-5522
    afrank@firstmid.com

    Matt Smith
    Chief Financial Officer
    217-258-1528
    msmith@firstmid.com

    – Tables Follow –

               
    FIRST MID BANCSHARES, INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (In thousands, unaudited)
     
      As of
      March 31,   December 31,   March 31,
      2025   2024   2024
               
    Assets          
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 201,470     $ 121,216     $ 355,701  
    Investment securities   1,049,003       1,073,510       1,149,752  
    Loans (including loans held for sale)   5,698,858       5,672,462       5,499,295  
    Less allowance for credit losses   (70,051 )     (70,182 )     (67,936 )
    Net loans   5,628,807       5,602,280       5,431,359  
    Premises and equipment, net   97,446       100,234       101,666  
    Goodwill and intangibles, net   258,671       261,906       260,699  
    Bank Owned Life Insurance   171,127       170,854       167,247  
    Other assets   166,164       189,734       211,822  
    Total assets $ 7,572,688     $ 7,519,734     $ 7,678,246  
               
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity          
    Deposits:          
    Non-interest bearing $ 1,394,590     $ 1,329,155     $ 1,448,299  
    Interest bearing   4,735,790       4,727,941       4,794,637  
    Total deposits   6,130,380       6,057,096       6,242,936  
    Repurchase agreements with customers   219,772       204,122       210,719  
    Other borrowings   195,000       242,520       238,761  
    Junior subordinated debentures   24,335       24,280       24,113  
    Subordinated debt   79,535       87,472       106,862  
    Other liabilities   52,717       57,853       56,903  
    Total liabilities   6,701,739       6,673,343       6,880,294  
               
    Total stockholders’ equity   870,949       846,391       797,952  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 7,572,688     $ 7,519,734     $ 7,678,246  
               
    FIRST MID BANCSHARES, INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
    (In thousands, except per share data, unaudited)
           
      Three Months Ended
      March 31,
      2025   2024
    Interest income:      
    Interest and fees on loans $ 79,918     $ 77,823  
    Interest on investment securities   6,777       7,405  
    Interest on federal funds sold & other deposits   864       2,444  
    Total interest income   87,559       87,672  
    Interest expense:      
    Interest on deposits   23,722       26,096  
    Interest on securities sold under agreements to repurchase   1,180       2,056  
    Interest on other borrowings   1,831       2,314  
    Interest on jr. subordinated debentures   468       542  
    Interest on subordinated debt   949       1,194  
    Total interest expense   28,150       32,202  
    Net interest income   59,409       55,470  
    Provision for credit losses   1,652       (357 )
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   57,757       55,827  
    Non-interest income:      
    Wealth management revenues   5,800       5,322  
    Insurance commissions   9,925       9,213  
    Service charges   2,901       2,956  
    Net securities gains/(losses)   (181 )     0  
    Mortgage banking revenues   711       706  
    ATM/debit card revenue   3,646       4,055  
    Other   2,062       2,226  
    Total non-interest income   24,864       24,478  
    Non-interest expense:      
    Salaries and employee benefits   31,748       30,448  
    Net occupancy and equipment expense   8,479       7,560  
    Net other real estate owned (income) expense   101       (21 )
    FDIC insurance   849       869  
    Amortization of intangible assets   3,231       3,497  
    Stationary and supplies   431       391  
    Legal and professional expense   3,076       2,449  
    ATM/debit card expense   1,831       1,191  
    Marketing and donations   852       862  
    Other   3,874       6,116  
    Total non-interest expense   54,472       53,362  
    Income before income taxes   28,149       26,943  
    Income taxes   5,978       6,440  
    Net income $ 22,171     $ 20,503  
           
    Per Share Information      
    Basic earnings per common share $ 0.93     $ 0.86  
    Diluted earnings per common share   0.93       0.86  
           
    Weighted average shares outstanding   23,858,817       23,872,731  
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding   23,959,228       23,960,335  
           
    FIRST MID BANCSHARES, INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
    (In thousands, except per share data, unaudited)
                       
      For the Quarter Ended
      March 31,   December 31,   September 30,   June 30,   March 31,
      2025     2024     2024   2024   2024
    Interest income:                  
    Interest and fees on loans $ 79,918     $ 81,288     $ 81,775     $ 79,560     $ 77,823  
    Interest on investment securities   6,777       6,990       7,036       7,405       7,405  
    Interest on federal funds sold & other deposits   864       1,564       2,371       1,718       2,444  
    Total interest income   87,559       89,842       91,182       88,683       87,672  
    Interest expense:                  
    Interest on deposits   23,722       26,144       28,341       26,338       26,096  
    Interest on securities sold under agreements to repurchase   1,180       1,333       1,444       1,615       2,056  
    Interest on other borrowings   1,831       1,917       2,195       2,248       2,314  
    Interest on jr. subordinated debentures   468       510       567       537       542  
    Interest on subordinated debt   949       988       1,092       1,180       1,194  
    Total interest expense   28,150       30,892       33,639       31,918       32,202  
    Net interest income   59,409       58,950       57,543       56,765       55,470  
    Provision for credit losses   1,652       3,643       1,266       1,083       (357 )
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   57,757       55,307       56,277       55,682       55,827  
    Non-interest income:                  
    Wealth management revenues   5,800       6,275       5,816       5,405       5,322  
    Insurance commissions   9,925       6,805       6,003       6,531       9,213  
    Service charges   2,901       3,058       3,121       3,227       2,956  
    Net securities gains/(losses)   (181 )     0       (277 )     (156 )     0  
    Mortgage banking revenues   711       1,104       1,109       1,038       706  
    ATM/debit card revenue   3,646       4,204       4,267       4,281       4,055  
    Other   2,062       4,917       2,984       2,096       2,226  
    Total non-interest income   24,864       26,363       23,023       22,422       24,478  
    Non-interest expense:                  
    Salaries and employee benefits   31,748       31,957       31,565       30,164       30,448  
    Net occupancy and equipment expense   8,479       7,285       8,055       7,507       7,560  
    Net other real estate owned (income) expense   101       240       107       85       (21 )
    FDIC insurance   849       863       829       902       869  
    Amortization of intangible assets   3,231       3,314       3,405       3,340       3,497  
    Stationary and supplies   431       642       482       370       391  
    Legal and professional expense   3,076       5,386       2,573       2,536       2,449  
    ATM/debit card expense   1,831       2,043       1,869       1,281       1,191  
    Marketing and donations   852       906       836       814       862  
    Other   3,874       3,661       4,212       4,392       6,116  
    Total non-interest expense   54,472       56,297       53,933       51,391       53,362  
    Income before income taxes   28,149       25,373       25,367       26,713       26,943  
    Income taxes   5,978       6,205       5,885       6,968       6,440  
    Net income $ 22,171     $ 19,168     $ 19,482     $ 19,745     $ 20,503  
                       
    Per Share Information                  
    Basic earnings per common share $ 0.93     $ 0.80     $ 0.81     $ 0.83     $ 0.86  
    Diluted earnings per common share   0.93       0.80       0.81       0.82       0.86  
                       
    Weighted average shares outstanding   23,858,817       23,818,806       23,905,099       23,896,210       23,872,731  
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding   23,959,228       23,908,340       24,006,647       23,998,152       23,960,335  
                       
    FIRST MID BANCSHARES, INC.
    Consolidated Financial Highlights and Ratios
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
     
        As of and for the Quarter Ended
        March 31,   December 31,   September 30,   June 30,   March 31,
        2025   2024   2024   2024   2024
                         
    Loan Portfolio                    
    Construction and land development   $ 269,148     $ 236,093     $ 190,857     $ 195,389     $ 186,851  
    Farm real estate loans     373,413       390,760       384,620       387,015       388,941  
    1-4 Family residential properties     488,139       496,597       505,342       507,517       518,641  
    Multifamily residential properties     356,858       332,644       338,167       334,446       312,758  
    Commercial real estate     2,397,985       2,417,585       2,440,120       2,406,955       2,396,092  
    Loans secured by real estate     3,885,543       3,873,679       3,859,106       3,831,322       3,803,283  
    Agricultural operating loans     296,811       239,671       233,414       213,997       213,217  
    Commercial and industrial loans     1,303,712       1,335,920       1,283,631       1,268,646       1,227,906  
    Consumer loans     47,220       53,960       63,222       70,841       79,569  
    All other loans     165,572       169,232       175,218       175,811       175,320  
    Total loans     5,698,858       5,672,462       5,614,591       5,560,617       5,499,295  
                         
    Deposit Portfolio                    
    Non-interest bearing demand deposits   $ 1,394,590     $ 1,329,155     $ 1,387,290     $ 1,393,336     $ 1,448,299  
    Interest bearing demand deposits     1,814,427       1,907,733       1,834,123       1,909,993       1,974,857  
    Savings deposits     643,289       636,427       648,582       673,381       704,777  
    Money Market     1,215,420       1,196,537       1,183,594       1,127,699       1,107,177  
    Time deposits     1,062,654       987,244       1,035,245       1,011,370       1,007,826  
    Total deposits     6,130,380       6,057,096       6,088,834       6,115,779       6,242,936  
                         
    Asset Quality                    
    Non-performing loans   $ 26,598     $ 29,835     $ 18,242     $ 19,079     $ 20,064  
    Non-performing assets     28,703       32,030       20,076       20,557       21,471  
    Net charge-offs (recoveries)     1,783       2,235       804       708       381  
    Allowance for credit losses to non-performing loans     263.36 %     235.23 %     377.01 %     358.05 %     338.60 %
    Allowance for credit losses to total loans outstanding     1.23 %     1.24 %     1.22 %     1.23 %     1.24 %
    Nonperforming loans to total loans     0.47 %     0.53 %     0.32 %     0.34 %     0.36 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets     0.38 %     0.43 %     0.27 %     0.27 %     0.28 %
    Special Mention loans     74,019       57,848       38,151       30,767       65,693  
    Substandard and Doubtful loans     33,884       35,516       29,037       27,594       29,296  
                         
    Common Share Data                    
    Common shares outstanding     23,981,916       23,895,807       23,904,051       23,895,868       23,888,929  
    Book value per common share   $ 36.32     $ 35.42     $ 35.91     $ 34.05     $ 33.40  
    Tangible book value per common share (1)     25.53       24.46       24.82       23.28       22.49  
    Tangible book value per common share excluding other comprehensive income at period end (1)     31.21       30.42       29.70       29.43       28.67  
    Market price of stock     34.90       36.82       38.91       32.88       32.68  
                         
    Key Performance Ratios and Metrics                    
    End of period earning assets   $ 6,844,096     $ 6,775,075     $ 6,786,458     $ 6,812,574     $ 6,923,742  
    Average earning assets     6,769,858       6,884,303       6,857,070       6,815,932       6,884,855  
    Average rate on average earning assets (tax equivalent)     5.29 %     5.24 %     5.35 %     5.27 %     5.16 %
    Average rate on cost of funds     1.74 %     1.83 %     2.00 %     1.91 %     1.91 %
    Net interest margin (tax equivalent) (1)(2)     3.60 %     3.41 %     3.35 %     3.36 %     3.25 %
    Return on average assets     1.19 %     1.01 %     1.03 %     1.05 %     1.07 %
    Adjusted return on average assets (1)     1.23 %     1.10 %     1.05 %     1.07 %     1.17 %
    Return on average common equity     10.35 %     9.04 %     9.40 %     9.92 %     10.37 %
    Adjusted return on average common equity (1)     10.78 %     9.80 %     9.58 %     10.11 %     11.28 %
    Efficiency ratio (tax equivalent) (1)     58.88 %     58.76 %     61.33 %     59.61 %     59.09 %
    Full-time equivalent employees     1,194       1,198       1,207       1,185       1,188  
                         
                         
    1 Non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to reconciliation to the comparable GAAP measure.
    2 During the first quarter 2025, the Company changed the methodology utilized for the calculation of net interest margin to be more consistent with what is typically used by peer banks and research analysts. The calculation now is the annualized net interest income on a tax equivalent basis divided by average interest earning assets.
                     
    FIRST MID BANCSHARES, INC.
    Net Interest Margin
    (In thousands, unaudited)
     
      For the Quarter Ended March 31, 2025
      QTD Average       Average
      Balance   Interest   Rate
    INTEREST EARNING ASSETS          
    Interest bearing deposits $ 70,701     $ 827       4.74 %
    Federal funds sold   75       1       5.41 %
    Certificates of deposits investments   3,162       36       4.62 %
    Investment Securities   1,090,099       7,254       2.66 %
    Loans (net of unearned income)   5,605,821       80,194       5.80 %
               
    Total interest earning assets   6,769,858       88,312       5.29 %
               
    NONEARNING ASSETS          
    Other nonearning assets   777,177          
    Allowance for loan losses   (70,620 )        
               
    Total assets $ 7,476,415          
               
    INTEREST BEARING LIABILITIES          
    Demand deposits $ 3,039,621     $ 14,900       1.99 %
    Savings deposits   640,687       164       0.10 %
    Time deposits   1,022,200       8,658       3.44 %
    Total interest bearing deposits   4,702,508       23,722       2.05 %
    Repurchase agreements   201,679       1,180       2.37 %
    FHLB advances   194,324       1,807       3.77 %
    Federal funds purchased               0.00 %
    Subordinated debt   82,608       949       4.66 %
    Jr. subordinated debentures   24,306       468       7.81 %
    Other debt   1,467       24       6.63 %
    Total borrowings   504,384       4,428       3.56 %
    Total interest bearing liabilities   5,206,892       28,150       2.19 %
               
    NONINTEREST BEARING LIABILITIES          
    Demand deposits   1,370,107     Average cost of funds   1.74 %
    Other liabilities   42,946          
    Stockholders’ equity   856,470          
               
    Total liabilities & stockholders’ equity $ 7,476,415          
               
    Net Interest Earnings / Spread     $ 60,162       3.10 %
               
    Tax effected yield on interest earning assets         3.60 %
               
    Tax equivalent net interest margin is a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer to reconciliation to the comparable GAAP measure.
               
    FIRST MID BANCSHARES, INC.
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    (In thousands, unaudited)
                       
      As of and for the Quarter Ended
      March 31,   December 31,   September 30,
      June 30,   March 31,
      2025   2024   2024   2024   2024
                       
    Net interest income as reported $ 59,409     $ 58,950     $ 57,543     $ 56,765     $ 55,470  
    Net interest income, (tax equivalent)   60,162       59,717       58,627       57,361       56,086  
    Average earning assets   6,769,858       6,884,303       6,857,070       6,815,932       6,884,855  
    Net interest margin (tax equivalent)   3.60 %     3.41 %     3.35 %     3.36 %     3.25 %
                       
                       
    Common stockholder’s equity $ 870,949     $ 846,391     $ 858,497     $ 813,645     $ 797,952  
    Goodwill and intangibles, net   258,671       261,906       265,139       257,377       260,699  
    Common shares outstanding   23,982       23,896       23,904       23,896       23,889  
    Tangible Book Value per common share $ 25.53     $ 24.46     $ 24.82     $ 23.28     $ 22.49  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss (AOCI)   (136,097 )     (142,383 )     (116,692 )     (146,998 )     (147,667 )
    Adjusted tangible book value per common share $ 31.21     $ 30.42     $ 29.70     $ 29.43     $ 28.67  
                       
    FIRST MID BANCSHARES, INC.
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    (In thousands, except per share data, unaudited)
                       
      As of and for the Quarter Ended
      March 31,   December 31,   September 30, June 30,   March 31,
      2025   2024   2024   2024   2024
    Adjusted earnings Reconciliation                  
    Net Income – GAAP $ 22,171     $ 19,168     $ 19,482     $ 19,745     $ 20,503  
    Adjustments (post-tax): (1)                  
    Nonrecurring technology project expenses   728       1,710                    
    Net (gain)/loss on securities sales   143             219       123        
    Integration and acquisition expenses   41             137       250       1,804  
    Total non-recurring adjustments (non-GAAP) $ 912     $ 1,710     $ 356     $ 373     $ 1,804  
                       
    Adjusted earnings – non-GAAP $ 23,083     $ 20,878     $ 19,838     $ 20,118     $ 22,307  
    Adjusted diluted earnings per share (non-GAAP) $ 0.96     $ 0.87     $ 0.83     $ 0.84     $ 0.93  
    Adjusted return on average assets – non-GAAP   1.23 %     1.10 %     1.05 %     1.07 %     1.17 %
    Adjusted return on average common equity – non-GAAP   10.78 %     9.80 %     9.58 %     10.11 %     11.28 %
                       
                       
    Efficiency Ratio Reconciliation                  
    Noninterest expense – GAAP $ 54,472     $ 56,297     $ 53,933     $ 51,391     $ 53,362  
    Other real estate owned property income (expense)   (101 )     (240 )     (107 )     (85 )     21  
    Amortization of intangibles   (3,231 )     (3,314 )     (3,405 )     (3,340 )     (3,497 )
    Nonrecurring technology project expense   (921 )     (2,164 )                  
    Integration and acquisition expenses   (52 )           (174 )     (316 )     (2,283 )
    Adjusted noninterest expense (non-GAAP) $ 50,167     $ 50,579     $ 50,247     $ 47,650     $ 47,603  
                       
    Net interest income -GAAP $ 59,409     $ 58,950     $ 57,543     $ 56,765     $ 55,470  
    Effect of tax-exempt income (1)   753       767       1,084       596       616  
    Adjusted net interest income (non-GAAP) $ 60,162     $ 59,717     $ 58,627     $ 57,361     $ 56,086  
                       
    Noninterest income – GAAP $ 24,864     $ 26,363     $ 23,023     $ 22,422     $ 24,478  
    Net (gain)/loss on securities sales   181       0       277       156       0  
    Adjusted noninterest income (non-GAAP) $ 25,045     $ 26,363     $ 23,300     $ 22,578     $ 24,478  
                       
    Adjusted total revenue (non-GAAP) $ 85,207     $ 86,080     $ 81,927     $ 79,939     $ 80,564  
                       
    Efficiency ratio (non-GAAP)   58.88 %     58.76 %     61.33 %     59.61 %     59.09 %
                       
    (1) Nonrecurring items (post-tax) and tax-exempt income are calculated using an estimated effective tax rate of 21%.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Enovix Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enovix Corporation (“Enovix”) (Nasdaq: ENVX), a global high-performance battery company, announced today financial results for the first quarter 2025, which included the summary below from its President and CEO, Dr. Raj Talluri.

    Fellow Shareholders,

    In the first quarter of 2025, Enovix advanced across critical milestones with our lead smartphone customer, keeping us on track for a customer product launch later this year. We also strengthened our leadership team, expanded our manufacturing footprint through a strategic acquisition in South Korea, and accelerated progress towards mass production readiness at Fab2 in Malaysia.

    Recent Highlights

    • Revenue Growth: Preliminary and unaudited first quarter revenue was $5.1 million, exceeding the midpoint of our guidance range. We also secured bookings on defense orders which support growth into the second half of 2025.
    • Smartphone Batteries: Began development of cells with the exact dimensions of the planned commercial product this year; first qualification deliveries are scheduled in Q2.
    • XR Batteries: Delivered a significantly larger quantity of XR battery samples to our lead customer for extended testing and system-level integration. These packs, assembled in our South Korea facility using custom cells from Fab2, will support the customer’s ongoing evaluation ahead of product qualification.
    • Manufacturing Readiness: Fab2 in Malaysia achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification with zero major or minor findings. Additionally, we concluded the first customer audits of both Fab2 in Malaysia and our South Korea facility.
    • Leadership Team: Appointed Ryan Benton as chief financial officer and promoted Samira Naraghi to chief business officer.
    • South Korea Acquisition: Acquired SolarEdge assets, including coating equipment that supports capacity expansion at Fab2 and adds production capacity for South Korean defense programs, reinforcing our presence in a key strategic market.
    • Capitalization: Ended Q1 with $248 million in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities (preliminary and unaudited), driven by disciplined expense management ahead of mass production in Malaysia, and positive contribution from defense sales.

    The north star for Enovix is commercialization of our breakthrough battery architecture, beginning with the launch of our first smartphone battery – an important step towards scaling the business to profitability. In parallel, like many global companies, we are actively monitoring changes in the global trade environment for any potential impacts to our operations and customers. At this time, we do not anticipate a material change in risk to our near-term outlook, as most of our planned sales are concentrated within Asia.

    We also see opportunities in the evolving global trade landscape. In April 2025, we acquired a second facility in South Korea for $10 million. The asset purchase from SolarEdge includes equipment for additional coating capacity at Fab2, as well as expanded production for Korean defense programs, reinforcing our presence in a key strategic market. The facility that we acquired from SolarEdge also offers significant room for expansion, which could provide strategic value as global supply chains continue to rapidly evolve.

    Our South Korea operations also help us with increased visibility on cutting-edge battery technology in conventional architectures. In 2024, we were among the battery manufacturers that deployed a technique called silicon doping where small amounts of silicon are added to graphite anodes which increases battery capacity. Based on our first-hand experience and feedback from our smartphone customers, we believe that our competition will be capped from achieving meaningful ED enhancements using this technique, within their current architecture, due to swelling and other trade-offs. Our internal benchmarking analysis of premium smartphone batteries launched in 2024 indicates that Enovix’s unique architecture with 100% active silicon will hold a material lead in ED, and we expect it will grow considerably with future generations.

    We are focused on the smartphone industry not only because we believe it offers the largest and fastest profitability outlook, but also because the technical requirements are so demanding that addressing this market opens opportunities in others. Smart eyewear emerged as an example in Q1 when we delivered our first customer samples. This quarter, we are accelerating our expansion in the handheld computer and scanner segment, where we’ve been engaged with a market leader in retail and logistics for several quarters, and our samples have passed initial testing. Recent tariff developments have further strengthened our position in this segment, prompting increased urgency and deeper collaboration.

    Business Update

    Manufacturing. Key accomplishments in the first quarter included securing ISO 9001:2015 certification, driving targeted yield improvements, and continuing to build cumulative production volume. We see a clear path to execute against our manufacturing roadmap. We localized the supply chain which led to a reduction of our custom cell tooling and switchover time by over 40%. This enhanced flexibility improves our per zone capacity as we scale toward additional lines. During this ramp process, we’ve maintained open engagement with customers and partners who visit the facility, as well as one OEM concluding their audit.

    Commercialization. The business team met our top objectives for the quarter – passing another milestone for our lead smartphone customer agreement, finalizing the chemistry, obtaining the precise smartphone cell dimensions, and commencing development of the final samples to be used in the qualification process this summer.  

    We continue to be actively engaged with other smartphone OEMs to ensure a rapid ramp once we are established in the market. Progress continues with our two marquee smart glasses customers, one of which received their unique battery samples this quarter, aligned with their product development schedules.

    In the electric vehicle space, we achieved key milestones that significantly improved the likelihood of expanding our commercial agreement with one of our two OEM partners later this year. Our partners remain highly committed to electrification. We also noted a major charge time improvement announced by a leading battery supplier in Asia, which we view as a strong validation of our cooling architecture – designed for scalable production and industry-leading performance, particularly in charge time and energy density.

    Products. Our internal benchmarking confirms that we are well-positioned to maintain technology leadership for the foreseeable future. The initial products slated for launch are built on our EX-1M technology node, with customer-specific customizations. While premium-category smartphones batteries improved energy density through silicon doping in 2024, we advanced our own electrochemistry with EX-2M – a foundational step that we believe will solidify our leadership position through 2026.

    To further extend this lead, we finalized the design specification of EX-3M, which incorporates a significant architectural enhancement projected to deliver more than a 30% capacity advantage compared to premium solutions available today. We anticipate a similar performance leap with the development of EX-4M.

    Q1 2025 Financial Highlights (Preliminary and Unaudited)

    Revenue was $5.1 million in the first quarter of 2025, near the high end of our guidance range and roughly flat year over year. As expected, revenue declined from $9.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2024 due to the seasonal buying cycle of South Korean defense customers who typically procure a majority of orders in the second half of the calendar year – a trend we expect to repeat in 2025. Our GAAP cost of revenue was $4.8 million, resulting in our second consecutive quarter of positive gross margin.

    GAAP operating expenses were $42.8 million in the first quarter of 2025, compared to $35.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2024 and $68.3 million in the first quarter of 2024, reflecting the impact of cost reduction initiatives implemented over the past year. Non-GAAP operating expenses were $29.7 million, up from $24.3 million in the previous quarter, reflecting preparation for mass production in Malaysia later this year, higher R&D depreciation from recent equipment additions, and increased SG&A expenses. Non-GAAP operating expenses for the first quarter of 2025, down significantly from $54.4 million in the first quarter of 2024, primarily reflecting the benefits of cost reduction initiatives implemented over the past year.

    GAAP net loss attributable to Enovix was $23.5 million in the first quarter of 2025, compared to $37.5 million in the previous quarter. As a reminder, GAAP net loss is impacted quarterly by changes in the fair value of common stock warrants, which resulted in a $15.8 million gain in the first quarter of 2025 compared to a $5.1 million expense in the fourth quarter of 2024.  

    Adjusted EBITDA loss was $22.2 million in the first quarter of 2025, compared to a loss of $14.3 million in the previous quarter. The sequential change was driven primarily by increased operating expenses, including the impact of additional hiring at sites in Asia.

    GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix was $0.12 and non-GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix was $0.15, compared to $0.20 on a GAAP basis and $0.11 on a non-GAAP basis in the fourth quarter of 2024.

    We exited the first quarter of 2025 with $248.2 million in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, down from $272.9 million in the prior quarter primarily due to $16.9 million used in operating activities and $6.3 million in capital expenditures.

    A full reconciliation of our GAAP to non-GAAP results is available later in this report.

    Q2 2025 Financial Outlook

    Looking ahead, based upon current business trends and conditions, we expect for the second quarter of 2025:

    • Revenue in the range of $4.5 million to $6.5 million (Q1 2025: $5.1 million)
    • Non-GAAP operating loss1 in the range of $31 million to $37 million (Q1 2025: $29.4 million)
    • Adjusted EBITDA loss1 in the range of $23 million to $29 million (Q1 2025: $22.2 million)
    • Non-GAAP net loss1per share attributable to Enovix in the range of $0.15 to $0.21 (Q1 2025: $0.15)

    1 We are not presenting a quantitative reconciliation to the GAAP equivalents for non-GAAP operating loss, adjusted EBITDA loss and non-GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix, in reliance on the unreasonable efforts exception under Item 10(e)(1)(i)(B) of Regulation S-K. Further information is provided below under the heading “Non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Summary

    Enovix delivered strong operational progress during the first quarter of 2025, progressing Fab2 to an advanced stage of readiness for mass production. With product qualification activities underway with marquee customers, we are positioned to drive volume production, achieve key commercialization milestones, and build the foundation for expanded production scale in 2026. Our focus remains on disciplined execution as we transition to high-volume manufacturing and capitalize on the significant growth opportunities ahead.

    Conference Call Information

    Enovix will hold a video conference call at 2:00 PM PT / 5:00 PM ET today, April 30, 2025, to discuss the company’s business updates and financial results. To join the call, participants must use the following link to register: https://enovix-q1-2025.open-exchange.net/registration This link will also be available via the Investor Relations section of the Enovix website at https://ir.enovix.com. An archived version of the call will be available on the Enovix website for one year at https://ir.enovix.com.

    About Enovix

    Enovix is on a mission to deliver high-performance batteries that unlock the full potential of technology products. Everything from IoT, mobile, and computing devices, to vehicles and headsets, needs a better battery. The company has developed an innovative, materials-agnostic approach to building a higher performing battery without compromising safety, and it partners with OEMs worldwide to usher in a new era of user experiences.

    Enovix is headquartered in Silicon Valley with facilities in India, South Korea and Malaysia. For more information visit https://enovix.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This shareholder letter includes the use of non-GAAP financial measures, which are intended to provide supplemental information regarding our performance. These non-GAAP measures include non-GAAP cost of revenue, non-GAAP gross profit, non-GAAP gross margin, non-GAAP research and development expense, non-GAAP selling, general and administrative expense, non-GAAP operating expenses, non-GAAP operating income (loss), EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, non-GAAP net income (loss) attributable to Enovix shareholders, non-GAAP earnings (loss) per share, free cash flow, and other non-GAAP measures.

    We use these non-GAAP measures to supplement our financial reporting and to evaluate ongoing operations and results, facilitate internal planning and forecasting, and assess performance against prior periods, industry peers, and the broader market. These non-GAAP measures are not prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and should not be considered as an alternative to GAAP results. Industry peers and other companies may calculate similar non-GAAP measures differently. Non-GAAP financial measures have limitations, including but not limited to, that they exclude certain expenses that are required under GAAP, which adjustments reflect the exercise of judgment by management. We believe that these non-GAAP measures, when considered together with the GAAP results, provide investors with an additional understanding of our operating performance. Reconciliations of each non-GAAP financial measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure can be found in the tables at the end of this shareholder letter.

    While Enovix provides second quarter 2025 guidance for non-GAAP operating loss, adjusted EBITDA loss and non-GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix, we are unable to provide without unreasonable effort a GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliation of these projected non-GAAP measures, and we have not provided a quantitative reconciliation in reliance on the unreasonable efforts exception under Item 10(e)(1)(i)(B) of Regulation S-K. Such reconciliation to the corresponding GAAP financial measure cannot be provided without unreasonable effort because of the inherent difficulty in accurately forecasting the occurrence and financial impact of the various adjustments that have not yet occurred, are out of our control, or cannot be reasonably predicted, including but not limited to change in fair value of common stock, stock-based compensation and related tax effects, acquisition-related costs, and restructuring costs. As a result, we are unable to assess the probable significance of the unavailable information, which could have a material impact on our future GAAP financial results.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This letter to shareholders contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future financial or operating performance and are identified by words such as anticipate, believe, could, estimate, expect, intend, may, might, plan, possible, potential, predict, project, should, will, would and similar expressions.

    Forward-looking statements in this letter to shareholders include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: (a) our future operating results, financial position, growth opportunities and guidance, and our anticipation that changes in the global trade environment do not pose a material risk to our outlook; (b) our commercialization plans, strategy and product development roadmap, including the readiness, performance, timing, and customer qualification of EX-1M, EX-2M, EX-3M, EX-4M, and other battery nodes; (c) our manufacturing strategy, including scale-up and operational readiness, including at Fab2 in Malaysia, our assets and facility expansion in South Korea and the anticipated benefits of the SolarEdge asset purchase, and our ability to enhance per-zone capacity and reduce switching time between configurations; (d) our internal benchmarking of energy density and competitive positioning, including our ability to maintain and expand a performance lead over other silicon-doped or conventional battery architectures, and our beliefs about our competitors’ inability to achieve further energy density enhancements using these techniques due to swelling; (e) customer interest, qualification activities, and expected adoption of our products across smartphone, smart eyewear, AI-powered devices, XR, handheld computing, defense, drone, IoT, and EV segments; (f) our ability to enter into or expand commercial agreements, including strategic partnerships, design wins, production contracts, and potential expansion of agreements with automotive OEMs; (g) the strategic value and potential for expansion of our acquired South Korea facility, and its role in supporting defense programs and Fab2 capacity; (h) the impact of seasonal purchasing patterns, including defense procurement cycles; (i) the impacts of tariffs, trade policies, and regional market developments on our business strategy and demand outlook; (j) anticipated trends, risks, and opportunities across our addressable markets and the broader economic environment, including interest rates, inflation, currency fluctuations, and global supply chain evolution; (k) the timing and ability to raise additional capital through equity, debt, or other instruments to support operations, growth initiatives, or capital expenditures; (l) the impact of AI feature adoption on demand for energy-dense batteries; (m) the timing and expected success of achieving technical milestones, including audits by OEMs, production ramp-up readiness, and securing purchase orders; and (n) our exposure to and management of global trade risks.

    It is not possible for us to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. Accordingly, you should not rely on any of the forward-looking statements. For additional information on these risks and uncertainties and other potential factors that could cause actual results to differ from the results predicted, please refer to our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including in the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of our annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other documents that we have filed, or will file, with the SEC. These documents are available in the SEC Filings section of the Investor Relations page at https://ir.enovix.com and at www.sec.gov.

    The financial results presented herein are preliminary and based on information known by management as of the date of this press release; final financial results will be included in the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 30, 2025. Any forward-looking statements in this letter to shareholders speak only as of the date on which they are made. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Investor Contact:
    Enovix Corporation
    Robert Lahey
    Email: ir@enovix.com   

    Media Contact:
    Bateman Agency for Enovix
    Kaelyn Attridge
    Email: enovix@bateman.agency

    Enovix Corporation
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Unaudited) (In Thousands, Except Share and per Share Amounts)
           
      March 30,
    2025
      December 29,
    2024
    Assets      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 189,874     $ 272,869  
    Short-term investments   58,281        
    Accounts receivable, net   2,897       4,566  
    Notes receivable, net   1,255       4  
    Inventory   10,483       7,664  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   7,382       9,903  
    Total current assets   270,172       295,006  
    Property and equipment, net   165,775       167,947  
    Customer relationship intangibles and other intangibles, net   35,205       36,394  
    Operating lease, right-of-use assets   12,921       13,479  
    Goodwill   12,217       12,217  
    Other assets, non-current   2,755       2,126  
    Total assets $ 499,045     $ 527,169  
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity      
    Current liabilities:      
    Accounts payable $ 20,610     $ 9,492  
    Accrued expenses   8,540       19,843  
    Accrued compensation   6,481       8,228  
    Short-term debt   10,367       9,452  
    Deferred revenue   6,630       3,650  
    Other liabilities   5,161       3,036  
    Total current liabilities   57,789       53,701  
    Long-term debt, net   169,185       169,820  
    Warrant liability   12,584       28,380  
    Operating lease liabilities, non-current   12,638       13,293  
    Deferred revenue, non-current   300       3,774  
    Deferred tax liability   8,751       8,784  
    Other liabilities, non-current   14       14  
    Total liabilities   261,261       277,766  
    Commitments and Contingencies      
    Stockholders’ equity:      
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value; authorized shares of 1,000,000,000; issued and outstanding shares of 191,715,117 and 190,559,335 as of March 30, 2025 and December 29, 2024, respectively   19       19  
    Additional paid-in-capital   1,079,904       1,067,951  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (184 )     (143 )
    Accumulated deficit   (844,596 )     (821,086 )
    Total Enovix stockholders’ equity   235,143       246,741  
    Non-controlling interest   2,641       2,662  
    Total equity   237,784       249,403  
    Total liabilities and equity $ 499,045     $ 527,169  
                   
    Enovix Corporation
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (Unaudited) (In Thousands, Except Share and per Share Amounts)
       
      Fiscal Quarters Ended
      March 30, 2025   March 31, 2024
    Revenue $ 5,098     $ 5,272  
    Cost of revenue   4,837       7,072  
    Gross profit   261       (1,800 )
    Operating expenses:      
    Research and development   25,929       48,788  
    Selling, general and administrative   16,892       19,548  
    Total operating expenses   42,821       68,336  
    Loss from operations   (42,560 )     (70,136 )
    Other income (expense):      
    Change in fair value of common stock warrants   15,796       21,120  
    Interest income   2,434       3,560  
    Interest expense   (1,716 )     (1,659 )
    Other income, net   2,353       466  
    Total other income, net   18,867       23,487  
    Loss before income tax benefit   (23,693 )     (46,649 )
    Income tax benefit   (162 )     (152 )
    Net loss   (23,531 )     (46,497 )
    Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests   (21 )     (129 )
    Net loss attributable to Enovix $ (23,510 )   $ (46,368 )
           
    Net loss per share attributable to Enovix shareholders, basic and diluted $ (0.12 )   $ (0.28 )
    Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic and diluted   191,304,975       168,144,918  
                   
    Enovix Corporation
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Unaudited) (In Thousands)
       
      Fiscal Quarters Ended
      March 30, 2025   March 31, 2024
    Cash flows used in operating activities:      
    Net loss $ (23,531 )   $ (46,497 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities      
    Depreciation, accretion and amortization   8,448       24,974  
    Stock-based compensation   12,014       12,760  
    Changes in fair value of common stock warrants   (15,796 )     (21,120 )
    Others   479       173  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
    Accounts and notes receivables   430       505  
    Inventory   (2,826 )     2,202  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets   2,440       (1,809 )
    Accounts payable   4,420       (7,281 )
    Accrued expenses and compensation   (4,167 )     2,845  
    Deferred revenue   (457 )     (1,402 )
    Deferred tax liability   (33 )     (222 )
    Other liabilities   1,672       (172 )
    Net cash used in operating activities   (16,907 )     (35,044 )
    Cash flows from investing activities:      
    Purchase of property and equipment   (6,272 )     (15,088 )
    Payment of acquisition costs   (16 )      
    Purchases of investments   (58,083 )     (17,066 )
    Maturities of investments         51,260  
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities   (64,371 )     19,106  
    Cash flows from financing activities:      
    Proceeds from issuance of Convertible Senior Notes and loans         1,800  
    Payments of transaction costs related to common stock issuance   (512 )      
    Payroll tax payments for shares withheld upon vesting of RSUs   (1,761 )     (2,222 )
    Proceeds from the exercise of stock options and issuance of common stock under ATM, net of issuance costs   782       5,852  
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities   (1,491 )     5,430  
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash   (228 )     (541 )
    Change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash   (82,997 )     (11,049 )
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period   274,691       235,123  
    Cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash, end of period $ 191,694     $ 224,074  
           

    EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation

    Below we provide a reconciliation of GAAP net loss attributable to Enovix to EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA for the periods presented (preliminary and unaudited) (in thousands).

    We define EBITDA as net loss attributable to Enovix adjusted for interest expense, interest income, income tax benefit, and depreciation and amortization expense. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA further adjusted for stock-based compensation expense, change in fair value of common stock warrants, inventory step-up, import duty forgiveness, impairment of equipment and other special items not indicative of our core operating performance, as determined by management.

    These non-GAAP measures may differ from similarly titled measures used by other companies.

      Fiscal Quarters Ended
      March 30, 2025   March 31, 2024
    Net loss attributable to Enovix $ (23,510 )   $ (46,368 )
    Interest income, net   (718 )     (1,901 )
    Income tax benefit   (162 )     (152 )
    Depreciation and amortization   8,448       24,974  
    EBITDA   (15,942 )     (23,447 )
    Stock-based compensation expense   12,014       12,760  
    Change in fair value of common stock warrants   (15,796 )     (21,120 )
    Inventory step-up         1,907  
    Import duty forgiveness   (2,431 )      
    Adjusted EBITDA $ (22,155 )   $ (29,900 )
                   

    Reconciliation of Operating Loss to Non-GAAP Operating Loss and Adjusted EBITDA

    Additionally, below is a reconciliation of GAAP operating loss to non-GAAP operating loss and adjusted EBITDA for the periods presented (preliminary and unaudited) (in thousands).

    These non-GAAP measures may differ from similarly titled measures used by other companies.

      Fiscal Quarters Ended
      March 30, 2025   March 31, 2024
           
    GAAP Operating Loss $ (42,560 )   $ (70,136 )
    Stock-based compensation expense   12,014       12,760  
    Amortization of intangible assets   1,190       1,172  
    Inventory step-up         1,907  
    Non-GAAP Operating Loss   (29,356 )     (54,297 )
    Depreciation and amortization (excluding amortization of intangible assets)   7,258       23,802  
    Other income (loss), net (excluding import duty forgiveness)   (78 )     466  
    Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest   21       129  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ (22,155 )   $ (29,900 )
                   

    Free Cash Flow Reconciliation

    We define Free Cash Flow as net cash used in operating activities less capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposals of property and equipment, each as reported in our consolidated statements of cash flows. Free Cash Flow is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered an alternative to cash flows from operating activities as determined in accordance with GAAP.

    We believe Free Cash Flow is a useful measure for investors because it provides insight into the cash generated or used by our operations after funding capital expenditures, and it helps assess our ability to pursue strategic growth initiatives. We use Free Cash Flow internally to evaluate performance, support decision-making, and measure our progress toward profitability and cash flow breakeven.

    This non-GAAP measure may differ from similarly titled measures used by other companies.

    Below is a reconciliation of net cash used in operating activities to the Free Cash Flow financial measure for the periods presented (preliminary and unaudited) (in thousands):

      Fiscal Quarters Ended
      March 30, 2025   March 31, 2024
    Net cash used in operating activities $         (16,907 )   $         (35,044 )
    Capital expenditures           (6,272 )             (15,088 )
    Free Cash Flow $         (23,179 )   $         (50,132 )
                   

    Other Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation
    (In Thousands, Except Share and per Share Amounts)

    These non-GAAP measures may differ from similarly titled measures used by other companies.

      Fiscal Quarters Ended
      March 30, 2025   March 31, 2024
    Revenue $ 5,098     $ 5,272  
           
    GAAP cost of revenue $ 4,837     $ 7,072  
    Stock-based compensation expense   (121 )      
    Inventory step-up         (1,907 )
    Non-GAAP cost of revenue $ 4,716     $ 5,165  
           
    GAAP gross profit $ 261     $ (1,800 )
    Stock-based compensation expense   121        
    Inventory step-up         1,907  
    Non-GAAP gross profit $ 382     $ 107  
           
    GAAP research and development (R&D) expense $ 25,929     $ 48,788  
    Stock-based compensation expense   (6,355 )     (6,554 )
    Amortization of intangible assets   (416 )     (416 )
    Non-GAAP R&D expense $ 19,158     $ 41,818  
           
    GAAP selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expense $ 16,892     $ 19,548  
    Stock-based compensation expense   (5,538 )     (6,206 )
    Amortization of intangible assets   (774 )     (756 )
    Non-GAAP SG&A expense $ 10,580     $ 12,586  
           
    GAAP operating expenses $ 42,821     $ 68,336  
    Stock-based compensation expense included in R&D expense   (6,355 )     (6,554 )
    Stock-based compensation expense included in SG&A expense   (5,538 )     (6,206 )
    Amortization of intangible assets   (1,190 )     (1,172 )
    Non-GAAP operating expenses $ 29,738     $ 54,404  
           
        Fiscal Quarters Ended
        March 30, 2025   March 31, 2024
    GAAP loss from operations   $ (42,560 )   $ (70,136 )
    Stock-based compensation expense     12,014       12,760  
    Amortization of intangible assets     1,190       1,172  
    Inventory step-up           1,907  
    Non-GAAP loss from operations   $ (29,356 )   $ (54,297 )
             
    GAAP net loss attributable to Enovix   $ (23,510 )   $ (46,368 )
    Stock-based compensation expense     12,014       12,760  
    Change in fair value of common stock warrants     (15,796 )     (21,120 )
    Amortization of intangible assets     1,190       1,172  
    Inventory step-up           1,907  
    Import duty forgiveness     (2,431 )      
    Non-GAAP net loss attributable to Enovix shareholders   $ (28,533 )   $ (51,649 )
             
    GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix, basic and diluted   $ (0.12 )   $ (0.28 )
    GAAP weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic and diluted     191,304,975       168,144,918  
             
    Non-GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix, basic and diluted   $ (0.15 )   $ (0.31 )
    GAAP weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic and diluted     191,304,975       168,144,918  
                     
        Fiscal Quarter Ended
        December 29,
    2024
    GAAP net loss attributable to Enovix   $         (37,465 )
    Stock-based compensation expense     10,207  
    Change in fair value of common stock warrants     5,115  
    Amortization of intangible assets     1,189  
    Non-GAAP net loss attributable to Enovix shareholders   $ (20,954 )
         
    GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix, basic and diluted   $ (0.20 )
    GAAP weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic and diluted     184,971,942  
         
    Non-GAAP net loss per share attributable to Enovix, basic and diluted   $ (0.11 )
    GAAP weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic and diluted     184,971,942  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cabinet approves Caste enumeration in the upcoming Census

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 5:59PM by PIB Delhi

    Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has decided to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census. This demonstrates that the present government is committed to the holistic interests and values of the nation and society.

    As per Article 246 of the Constitution of India, Census is a union subject listed at 69 in the Union List in the Seventh Schedule. While some states have conducted surveys to enumerate castes, these surveys have varied in transparency and intent, with some conducted purely from a political angle, creating doubts in society. Considering all these circumstances, and to ensure that our social fabric does not come under political pressure, it has been decided that caste enumeration should be included in the main census instead of being conducted as a separate survey.

    This will ensure that society becomes stronger economically and socially, and the country’s progress continues without hindrance. It is noteworthy that when a provision of 10 percent reservation was made for the economically weaker sections of society, it did not create tension in any section of society.

    Caste was excluded from all census operations conducted since independence. In 2010, then Prime Minister Late Dr. Manmohan Singh assured the Lok Sabha that the matter of caste census would be considered in the Cabinet. A Group of Ministers was formed to deliberate on this subject, and most political parties recommended conducting a caste census. Despite this, the previous government opted for a survey instead of a caste census, known as the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC).

    *****

    MJPS/SS/SR

    (Release ID: 2125526) Visitor Counter : 268

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM chairs 46th PRAGATI Interaction

    Source: Government of India

    PM chairs 46th PRAGATI Interaction

    PM reviews eight significant projects worth over Rs 90,000 crore

    PM directs that all Ministries and Departments should ensure that identification of beneficiaries is done strictly through biometrics-based Aadhaar authentication or verification

    Ring Road should be integrated as a key component of broader urban planning efforts that aligns with city’s growth trajectory: PM

    PM reviews Jal Marg Vikas Project and directs that efforts should be made to establish a strong community connect along the stretches for boosting cruise tourism

    PM reiterates the importance of leveraging tools such as PM Gati Shakti and other integrated platforms to enable holistic and forward-looking planning

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 8:41PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi earlier today chaired a meeting of the 46th edition of PRAGATI, an ICT-based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation, involving Centre and State governments.

    In the meeting, eight significant projects were reviewed, which included three Road Projects, two projects each of Railways and Port, Shipping & Waterways. The combined cost of these projects, spread across different States/UTs, is around Rs 90,000 crore.

    While reviewing grievance redressal related to Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), Prime Minister directed that all Ministries and Departments should ensure that the identification of beneficiaries is done strictly through biometrics-based Aadhaar authentication or verification. Prime Minister also directed to explore the potential for integrating additional programmes into the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, specifically those aimed at promoting child care, improving health and hygiene practices, ensuring cleanliness, and addressing other related aspects that contribute to the overall well-being of the mother and newly born child.

    During the review of infrastructure project concerning the development of a Ring Road, Prime Minister emphasized that the development of Ring Road should be integrated as a key component of broader urban planning efforts. The development must be approached holistically, ensuring that it aligns with and supports the city’s growth trajectory over the next 25 to 30 years. Prime Minister also directed that various planning models be studied, with particular focus on those that promote self-sustainability, especially in the context of long-term viability and efficient management of the Ring Road. He also urged to explore the possibility of integrating a Circular Rail Network within the city’s transport infrastructure as a complementary and sustainable alternative for public transportation.

    During the review of the Jal Marg Vikas Project, Prime Minister said that efforts should be made to establish a strong community connect along the stretches for boosting cruise tourism. It will foster a vibrant local ecosystem by creating opportunities for business development, particularly for artisans and entrepreneurs associated with the ‘One District One Product’ (ODOP) initiative and other local crafts. The approach is intended to not only enhance community engagement but also stimulate economic activity and livelihood generation in the regions adjoining the waterway. Prime Minister stressed that such inland waterways should be drivers for tourism also.

    During the interaction, Prime Minister reiterated the importance of leveraging tools such as PM GatiShakti and other integrated platforms to enable holistic and forward-looking planning. He emphasized that the use of such tools is crucial for achieving synergy across sectors and ensuring efficient infrastructure development.

    Prime Minister further directed all stakeholders to ensure that their respective databases are regularly updated and accurately maintained, as reliable and current data is essential for informed decision-making and effective planning.

    Up to the 46th edition of PRAGATI meetings, 370 projects having a total cost of around Rs 20 lakh crore have been reviewed.

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2125611) Visitor Counter : 84

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Governor of Telangana inaugurated Babuji Vanam, the world’s first energy transmission garden at Kanha Shanti Vanam, supported by the Ministry of Culture

    Source: Government of India

    Governor of Telangana inaugurated Babuji Vanam, the world’s first energy transmission garden at Kanha Shanti Vanam, supported by the Ministry of Culture

    Closing ceremony of the 15th birthday anniversary of Pujya Babuji Maharaj held at Kanha Shanti Vanam

    Special Exhibition and Projection Mapping Show dedicated to the life and legacy of Pujya Babuji Maharaj showcased

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 8:34PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Culture in collaboration with Heartfulness organised the closing ceremony of the commemoration of the 125th birth anniversary celebrations of Pujya Babuji Maharaj. The year long commemorative activities which included Ektam Abhiyan, meditation and lifestyle improvemrent programs, skill building, etc., across multiple states in India such as Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh targeted to reach the lives of 12 crores of people in 65,000 villages have taken the message of Pujya Babuji Maharaj and the transformative impact of his work to all parts of India and the world.

    Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, Governor of Telangana, graced this commemorative event, which was attended by over 50,000 participants in person with millions from 165 countries joining virtually worldwide. 

    The  Governor of Telangana inaugurated “Babuji Vanam,” the world’s first energy transmission garden created in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, as a special commemorative legacy project. 

    The thematic garden is the first of its kind in the world, featuring forty species of trees that will absorb and radiate Pranahuti, the yogic transmission that nourishes the soul. A central water body in the garden depicts the origin of creation. The garden is meticulously designed to ensure that every drop of water is harvested. The gravel pathways serve as acupressure pathways. The percolation pits and gentle slopes are designed to guide water to a holding pond and hence tap surface water runoff. The trees in the garden have medicinal value as well and include Neem, Red Sandalwood, Tulsi, and Tropical Almond. The biodiversity patch attracts a variety of fauna and birds. A cow pen is also integrated in the garden, not only because they were dear to Babuji but also to enable children to pet them and get closer to nature. The garden is eco-friendly with consciously chosen materials, with stone trails, hedgerows for acoustic calm, and signage with quotes from Babuji and Sahaj Marg literature.

    Visitors are encouraged to sit and lean against these trees to experience the subtle energy and deepen their inner stillness. The mandatory practice of silence in the garden helps one come closer to the Divine and guides the heart to deep silence that sustains. 

    A special exhibition showcased the life of Babuji Maharaj through a curated display of rare artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia. A digital version of the  exhibition is available for download and this experience is also being shared across 165 countries for their viewing. 

    Rev. Daaji – Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission said, “We are the product of the past – what we do now decides our future. What creates the bondage is not only from the past, but also the tendencies from the past give rise to desires. The past and future keep us bound. Move your attention to the Source. The solution is to transcend both the tendencies and the futuristic desires. To arrive at a clean state free from samskaras, Babuji designed the system of Sahaj Marg. He made meditation easier through Pranahuti or yogic Transmission.”

    The event also witnessed the release of two special publications, the first of which is a book titled “Holy Tirthankars“, where Rev Daaji captures the essence of the lives of the 24 Jain Tirthankars, illuminating the deep spiritual heritage shared between Jainism and Heartfulness. The book unveils profound insights into the origins and legacy of both traditions, offering timeless wisdom for modern life. More than a historical or philosophical treatise, it is an inspiring call for the common man to embrace a life of spiritual awareness and ecological responsibility, something that is at the core of Babuji’s life philosophy.

    The second book, “A Symphony of Love” is a luminous collection of messages received by Mother Hélène Peyret, the devoted scribe of Babuji Maharaj, during her Monday meditation sessions with Rev. Daaji between 2012 and 2015. These intimate and revelatory conversations explore hidden dimensions of human existence, gently expanding the reader’s consciousness.

    Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, Governor of Telangana said, “It is a moment of deep joy celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of Babuji Maharaj on the holy day of Akshay Tritiya. In this world of cacophony, silence is a rare luxury. Silence is meditative and regenerative. Inaugurating Babuji Vanam today, which celebrates the great heritage of silence – I understand how to look within, how to regenerate through silence. Kanha has a spiritual atmosphere which says that truth is uncomplicated which what ‘Sahaj Marg’ is. It actually means truth is uncomplicated. Bliss is not an explanation, it should come from experience. This is what Sahaj Marg’s truth is. Swami Vivekananda once said that it is not following a dogma, but that our culture teaches of being and becoming. This holy land is the birthplace of many divine scriptures. Babuji Maharaj’s mission was to teach the world that truth is uncomplicated. Our rishis has always taught us to experience the truth.”

    As part of the program, a captivating projection mapping created with support from the MInistry of Culture brought to life the journey of Babuji Maharaj, tracing his early years, spiritual awakening, and transformative impact on humanity. The visual narrative, set against the backdrop of Kanha Shanti Vanam, mesmerized the audience and offered a heartfelt tribute to his timeless legacy.

    The closing ceremony of the commemoration of 125th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of beloved Babuji in 2025 concluded with the musical performance by Ms Sniti Mishra. The spiritually uplifting music resonated with lakhs of participants worldwide, inspiring them to imbibe the noble qualities of Babuji Maharaj.

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

     pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2125609) Visitor Counter : 68

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah thanks Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the Cabinet decision to fix the FRP of sugarcane at ₹355 per quintal for year 2025-26 and approve 4-lane Greenfield National Highway from Mawlyngkhung in Meghalaya to Panchgram in Assam

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah thanks Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the Cabinet decision to fix the FRP of sugarcane at ₹355 per quintal for year 2025-26 and approve 4-lane Greenfield National Highway from Mawlyngkhung in Meghalaya to Panchgram in Assam

    This decision of the Modi Government will benefit about 5 crore sugarcane farmers and their families as well as about 5 lakh workers employed in sugar mills

    Committed to the prosperity of sugarcane farmers and increasing their income, this decision by Modiji will make the lives of farmers even better and easier

    Home Minister says, development of the Northeast has always been a top priority of the Modi government

    This decision will open a new fast lane of development for the Ashtalakshmi of Bharat by making transportation safer and seamless

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 8:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the Cabinet decision to fix the FRP of sugarcane at ₹355 per quintal for year 2025-26 and approve 4-lane Greenfield National Highway from Mawlyngkhung in Meghalaya to Panchgram in Assam.

    On a post on X platform, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that Modi Government’s gift to sugarcane farmers, this decision will benefit about 5 crore sugarcane farmers and their families as well as about 5 lakh workers employed in sugar mills

    Shri Amit Shah said that committed to the prosperity of sugarcane farmers and increasing their income, this decision by Modiji will make the lives of farmers even better and easier.

    In another post, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that development of the Northeast has always been a top priority of the Modi government. He congratulated our sisters and brothers of the Northeast on the approval of the 4-lane Greenfield National Highway from Mawlyngkhung in Meghalaya to Panchgram in Assam. Shri Shah said that this decision will open a new fast lane of development for the Ashtalakshmi of Bharat by making transportation safer and seamless. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji for this game-changing decision.

    *****

    RK / VV / RR / PS

    (Release ID: 2125604) Visitor Counter : 79

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Parliamentary Affairs Ministry Observes Swachhata Pakhwada

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 5:39PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs observed Swachhata Pakhwada from 16th to 30th April, 2025, as part of the Government of India’s flagship Swachh Bharat Mission, aimed at realizing Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of a clean and hygienic India. The “Swachhata Pakhwada” is a concept inspired by the Prime Minister’s vision. The Pakhwada was organized in accordance with the Calendar of Swachhata Pakhwada 2025 issued by the Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India.

    The observance commenced on 16th April 2025 with the administration of the Swachhata Pledge by Shri Umang Narula, Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, to all officers and other staff of the Ministry.

     

    [Shri Umang Narula, Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs administering ‘Swachhata Pledge’ to officers/officials of the Ministry]

     

    Throughout the fortnight, various activities were carried out to promote cleanliness and sustainability within the Ministry premises, including:

    • Intensive cleanliness drives in office spaces,

    • Reviewing, recording, and weeding out of old physical files,

    • Identification of old and obsolete items for auction,

    • Cleaning of electrical switchboards, fans, and air conditioners,

    • Whitewashing and maintenance of office rooms.

    • Placing indoor plants to promote a green and clean office environment.

         

        [Cleanliness Drive]                                                  [Reviewing of  files]

     

        

    [cleaning of electrical fan/switch board]                           [whitewashing]

           

       

     

    [Placing of green plants]                 [Collection of old and obsolete electronic items for disposal]

     

    On 29th April, 2025, Secretary, MoPA, along with senior officers, conducted a cleanliness inspection of office premises. Following the assessment, three sections were ranked first, second, and third based on their Swachhata standards.

     

    [Secretary, MoPA inspecting Cleanliness in Sections]

    The Swachhata Pakhwada culminated in a Prize Distribution Ceremony where Shri Umang Narula, Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, recognized the top three Sections for their outstanding commitment to cleanliness.

    [Secretary, MoPA chairing closing ceremony of pakhwada]

     

     [Shri Umang Narula, Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs giving swachhata prizes to officers/officials of winning Sections]

    The Secretary, MoPA, appreciated the enthusiastic participation of the Ministry’s employees, stressing that Swachhata should be a year-round personal and professional responsibility. The Secretary also emphasized the importance of digital cleanliness, including removing unwanted data to improve computer efficiency and longevity, alongside strong cybersecurity practices. The Ministry reaffirms its commitment to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and will continue promoting cleanliness and sustainability.

    ***

    SS/ISA

    (Release ID: 2125513) Visitor Counter : 54

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: GenomeIndia

    Source: Government of India

    GenomeIndia

    Government of India committed to fostering sustainable development through democratizing and disseminating this national genetic resource knowledge

    The Government is committed to ensure fair and equitable access to GenomeIndia data by our researchers

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 5:28PM by PIB Delhi

    The ‘GENOMEINDIA’, funded by the Department of Biotechnology of the Central Government has completed whole genome sequencing (WGS) database of over 10,000 individuals representing all major population groups, across the country. GenomeIndia data represents Government of India’s commitment to scientific inquiry and is poised to reshape health and science in India and beyond, fostering sustainable development through democratizing and disseminating this national genetic resource knowledge.

    The result oriented cumulative proactive actions taken by the Department towards setting up of IBDC, release of Biotech PRIDE Guidelines, formulation of FeED Protocols, transfer and storage of GenomeIndia Data in IBDC; followed by the announcements by the highest leaderships in the country indicate strong determination of the Government for sharing of this data with our researchers to analyze critical information, accelerating discoveries and advancements in biological sciences.

    For the first time in the country, the department has established the Indian Biological Data Center (IBDC) in March 2020 with 96 TF computing capacity using 2912 CPUs, 39 TB of RAM, 865 TF computing capacity using 64 GPUs, 4 PB of parallel file system with the capability of writing 100GB of data every second and 1.5 PB of disk and tape to store backup copy of data. The Department has released the Biotech-PRIDE Guidelines, 2021 followed by formulation of ‘Framework for Exchange of Data (FeED) Protocols’ for responsible data sharing.

    On 9thJanuary 2025, during the ‘Genomics Data Conclave’, the ‘GenomeIndia Data’ was dedicated to the researchers by Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India. The Prime Minister stated that this national database encapsulates the extraordinary genetic landscape of India and will serve as an invaluable scientific resource to boost genetic and medical research for human health. Further, during the address to the nation on the evening of 25thJanuary, 2025, Her Excellency, Smt. Draupadi Murmu, President of India said that GenomeIndia project marks a significant chapter in the history of Indian Science.

    The department also announced the ‘Call for Proposals’ from researchers to exploit the opportunities of translational research using GenomeIndia data.  To address the queries of the researchers, the Department issued the addendum mentioning the types and category of data that will be available for research, also “associated phenotype data” will be shared. It is clarified that access to GenomeIndia data is not limited to the ‘Call’ but independent requests for data access are being received by IBDC, under the ambit of Biotech PRIDE Guidelines and FeED Protocols.  

    As on date, this National Resource generated under the GenomeIndia project comprises of Fastq files of 9772 samples (~700 TB), gvcfs: 9772 (~35 TB), phenotypic data from 9330 samples and Joint call files (~3.5 TB) and is archived at IBDC, the National Repository.

    To brief about the issue of phenotype data as mentioned in one of the news articles in a leading newspaper, it is stated here that curation and cleaning up of phenotypic data was performed on 9772 samples which underwent WGS and were used in joint calling. Out of these 9772 samples, phenotypic data from 9330 samples could be used because the data available for the rest of the samples (numbering 442) was not usable. Many phenotypic parameters had very high levels of missingness, so the data for the top 27 variables for 9330 samples is available for research. These 27 variables are Albumin, Alkaline_Phosphatase, ALT_SGPT, AST_SGOT, Basophils, Cholesterol, Creatinine, Direct_Bilirubin, Eosinophils, FBS_Fasting_Blood_Glucose, HB_Haemoglobin, HbA1C_Glycosylated_Haemoglobin, HDL, Indirect_Bilirubin, LDL, Lymphocytes, MCH_Mean_Corpuscular_Hb, Monocytes, Neutrophils, Platelet_Count, Protein, RBC_Red_Blood_Cell_Count, RBS, Total_Bilirubin, Triglycerides, Urea, WBC_Total_White_Blood_Cell_Count. The anthropometry data such as: Age, Gender, Height, Weight, Body Fat is also available.

    Further, some of the news articles have also raised concern about making ‘No Access’ for FASTQ files. It is pertinent to mention here that the total size of FASTQ files is approximately 700 TB. The logistical and technical challenges of transferring these files are enormous. It is difficult to ensure the completeness and sanctity of downloads by requesters. Analyzing raw sequencing files often demands two- to three-times more computational capacity, leading to redundant workflows and wasted infrastructure at the national level. By providing equitable access to gVCF files (which amounts to ~35 TB) instead, data can be shared more quickly and computational resources conserved. The international leading data banks established for more than 2 decades also does not allow the downloading of data; data is provided by their cloud platform. Hence, ‘No Access’ to FASTQ files in the department’s ‘Call’ means that these files will not be available for download at present. This policy is in line with other global consortia. As IBDC will grow and expand in future, similar provisions may be incorporated.

     

    ***

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2125504) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) announces the 28th National Conference on E-Governance (NCeG)

    Source: Government of India

    Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) announces the 28th National Conference on E-Governance (NCeG)

    On the 9th and 10th of June 2025 in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

    Registration portal https://nceg.gov.in/  opened for registration by all Government and non-government participants

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 5:18PM by PIB Delhi

    The 28th National Conference on e-Governance (NCeG) is set to take place on the 9th and 10th of June, 2025 at Novotel, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The event is being jointly organized by, the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG),Govt of India, and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, in collaboration with the Government of Andhra Pradesh.

    The theme of the two-day conference, is “Viksit Bharat: Civil Service and Digital Transformation,” and will feature six plenary sessions and six breakout sessions. The Conference is designed to provide a platform for policy makers, practitioners, industry leaders, and academicians to deliberate, discuss, and recommend actionable strategy to enhance quality of public services rendered by the governments, to realize the policy of  “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance”  for a Viksit Bharat, through setting newer benchmarks in good governance.

    The National e-Gov Awards (NAeG) 2025, will be conferred by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Minister of State of the Prime Minister’s Office, Minister of State in the Department of Atomic Energy, and Minister of State in the Department of Space, during the Conference.

    The Conference will be graced by the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu who will inaugurate the Conference and chair a plenary session on Vizag as IT Hub. The Dy. CM of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Pawan Kalyan and the Minister of IT & Human Resources, Shri N. Lokesh will deliver keynote addresses during the Conference in the presence of senior officers of State and Central Governments.

    DARPG has opened the portal nceg.gov.in for the registration of participants fromCentral Ministries and State/UT Governments, Industry, Academia, Start-ups, Exhibitors, Awardees, Speakers and Panellists etc for participation in the 28thNCeG 2025

    In preparation for this event a virtual meeting was chaired by Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary, DARPG on 30th April 2025, to provide a comprehensive briefing on the Conference’s structure, schedule and importance. The meeting was attended by Secretary, Department of ITE&C, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Joint Secretary, MeitY, Senior Vice President, NASSCOM,IIM Visakhapatnam along with other senior officials from the Government of India and State Governments. Government of AP shared the status report on the preparations.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Jitendra Singh Calls for a dynamic curriculum in view of changing governance landscape:

    Source: Government of India

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Calls for a dynamic curriculum in view of changing governance landscape:

    Also continuous evolution in public administration training modules to meet the rapidly changing requirements driven by emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing

    Delivers Convocation Address of the 50th “Advanced Professional Programme in Public Administration” (APPPA) at the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA)

    “What We Learn Today May Be Obsolete Tomorrow”: Union Minister Urges APPPA Officers to Stay Ahead of the Curve

    From Generals to Grassroots: IIPA Expands Reach as APPPA Marks Golden Jubilee

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 4:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on Wednesday called for a dynamic curriculum in view of changing governance landscape  and continuous evolution in public administration training modules to meet the rapidly changing requirements driven by emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing.

    Delivering the Convocation Address of the 50th “Advanced Professional Programme in Public Administration” (APPPA) at the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), Dr. Jitendra Singh, who is also the Chairman of the IIPA Executive Council, said, “What is relevant today may not be tomorrow. We need to learn every day to stay relevant.”

    Highlighting the government’s focus on Mission Karmayogi and Viksit Bharat, the Minister said the APPPA programme has grown beyond its traditional curriculum to include exposure to aspirational districts, defence institutions, rural and urban development schemes, and India’s rich traditional knowledge systems. “I am happy that the course has evolved with time, integrating themes like Atmanirbhar Bharat and governance reforms,” he said.

    In a candid and wide-ranging address, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the need for continuous learning and adaptive policy making in the face of exponential technological advancements. “We could very well see participants of the 50th APPPA returning for refresher courses by the 55th,” he quipped, stressing the need to keep administrative knowledge up to date.

    Lauding IIPA’s initiative to organize APPPA’s golden jubilee programme, Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the importance of civil-military synergy. “Today’s army officers don’t just stay in isolation; they are expected to brief the media, interact with civilians and respond jointly in disaster-affected regions,” he noted, calling for greater focus on communication skills in future iterations of the course.

    The Minister urged participants to assist in visualizing “India@2047” by contributing their domain-specific knowledge to the vision document being prepared by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances. “We mustn’t view 2047 through the prism of 2025. Change is unfolding too quickly. We need to project forward with a futuristic mindset,” he said.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also appreciated IIPA’s recent grassroots initiative, which began training programmes for elected Sarpanches and Panchayati Raj representatives, saying this marks a significant step in democratizing capacity building. “IIPA has now spread its wings from training senior civil servants to empowering grassroot representatives,” he said.

    Acknowledging the contributions of course directors Prof. Neetu Jain and Dr. Saket Bihari, he also appreciated the participants of the 50th APPPA batch for their resilience in completing the course during challenging times.

    The Minister announced that the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has approved a fee enhancement from the 51st APPPA batch onwards, giving IIPA more room to strengthen the programme through additional exposure visits and new modules.

    Concluding his address on a hopeful note, Dr. Jitendra Singh encouraged participants to stay connected and continue contributing to nation-building. “Though the course culminates today, the bond built over these ten months is forever,” he said.

    Director General, IIPA, S.N. Tripathi, in his introductory address, highlighted the salient features of various training programmes undertaken by IIPA.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Countdown begins for the maiden edition of WAVES – World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Countdown begins for the maiden edition of WAVES – World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit

    Mumbai is all set to host WAVES 2025

    Four days of knowledge exchange, dialogue, and collaboration between Indian and global M & E stakeholders

    WAVES to make waves in India’s Creative Economy

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 4:46PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 30 April 2025

     

    The countdown for the much-anticipated milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector -WAVES (World Audio-Visual & Entertainment Summit 2025) has begun. This groundbreaking four-day event, starting tomorrow at Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai is designed to propel India’s Media & Entertainment industry to even greater heights.

    As Mumbai, the entertainment capital of India, is gearing up to welcome the who’s who of Media & Entertainment sector who shall delve into engaging panel discussions, thought-provoking and inspiring discourses, knowledge-sharing in-conversation and interactive sessions, enriching master-classes by the industry luminaries et al, the multi-dimensional takeaways over the coming four days for the stakeholders look promising for a future-ready M & E sector in the country.

    This is because WAVE Summit is meant to amplify India’s Voice as a Global Powerhouse. WAVES, from its debut year, will provide a platform to showcase India’s vibrant creative industry and its immense potential within the global M&E landscape. Adding to the same, WAVES will also promote knowledge exchange, dialogue, and collaboration between Indian and global stakeholders. This pioneering initiative by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India is envisioned for gainfully leveraging India’s rich spiritual legacy for global harmony and propel the Creator’s economy in the right direction. 

    The Four Pillars of WAVES

    The mega-event encompassing the entire gamut of M & E sector has been broadly divided into four pillars.

    One: Broadcasting & Infotainment – Encompassing the traditional and evolving landscape of information and entertainment delivery, this focus area aims at prioritizing information, empowering citizens, and going global by adapting to the challenges of the 21st Century. It includes the following areas of the creative economy:

    • Broadcast: Television, Radio, Podcasts, Sports Broadcasting
    • Content Creation: Print Media, Music
    • Delivery Platforms: Carriage (Cable & Satellite), DTH (Direct-to-Home)
    • Advertising & Marketing: Leading professionals shaping brand strategies within the M&E space.

    Two: AVGC-XR – This segment explores the cutting-edge world of immersive storytelling and interactive experience powered by a combination of artistry, entertainment and technology. It encompasses the following specific areas:

    • Animation
    • Visual Effects
    • E-Sports
    • Comics
    • Augmented Reality/ Virtual Reality (AR/ VR)
    • Metaverse & Extended Reality (XR)

    Three: Digital Media & Innovation: This segment explores the ever-evolving digital landscape and its impact on entertainment consumption. It includes:

    • Digital Media & App Economy
    • OTT Platforms
    • Social Media Platforms
    • Generative AI & Emerging Technology
    • Influencers & Content Creators  

    Four: Films: This segment explores the world of filmmaking, production and globalization.

    • Films, Documentaries, Shorts, Videos
    • Film Technology (Shooting, Post-Production)
    • Globalization of Indian Cinema
    • Co-Production
    • Film Incentives
    • Audio-Visual Services

    Create in India Challenge and Creatosphere: Launched as part of WAVES, the Create in India Challenge (CIC) Season-1, has achieved a milestone of crossing 85,000 registrations including 1,100 International participants. Over 750 finalists have been selected after a meticulous selection process, from across 32 diverse challenges. These talented creative minds will get a unique opportunity in the Creatosphere to showcase the outcome and output of their individual talent and skills, apart from networking opportunities with business leaders from their respective sector including pitching sessions, and learn from global stalwarts through masterclasses and panel discussions. 

    The Creatosphere at WAVES will offer immersive experiences with masterclasses, workshops, a gaming arena, and the Grand Finale of the Create in India Challenges, culminating in the WAVES CIC Awards.

    Global Media Dialogue, to be held at WAVES on 2nd May 2025, is yet another segment that aims to bring together global leaders, policymakers, industry stakeholders, media professionals, and artists to engage in a constructive and dynamic dialogue aimed at shaping the future of the audio-visual and entertainment sectors with a focus on international collaboration, technological innovation, and ethical practices.

    Thought Leaders Track: Through plenary sessions, conference sessions and breakout sessions, top CEOs and global leaders will provide insights and diverse perspectives, while also undertaking strategic discussions for collaborations.

    WaveXcelerator will connect M&E startups with investors and mentors through live pitching sessions to foster innovation and funding. It will act as a catalyst for Indian startups to lead this transformation, ensuring they receive the right exposure, and investment to scale up their businesses.

    WAVES Bazaar is a premier global marketplace for the media and entertainment industry that offers filmmakers and industry professionals the opportunity to engage with buyers, sellers, and a wide range of projects and profiles. The Viewing Room is a dedicated physical platform set up at Waves Bazaar, open from May 1st to 4th, 2025. For the first ever WAVES Bazaar, a total of 100 films from 8 countries namely India, Sri Lanka, USA, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Germany, Mauritius and UAE will be available to watch in the Viewing Room Library.

    Bharat Pavilion: Guided by the theme “Kala to Code” the Bharat Pavilion will celebrate India’s spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family — and showcase how the country’s artistic traditions have long been a beacon of creativity, harmony and cultural diplomacy. At the core of the Bharat Pavilion are four immersive zones that will take visitors through the continuum of India’s storytelling traditions, named Shruti, Kriti, Drishti, and Creator’s Leap.

    Exhibition Pavilion: A dynamic showcase of imagination meeting innovation, from cutting-edge tech to future-forward trends, the pavilion exhibits Indian and Global breakthroughs in the Media & Entertainment sector.

    National Sammelan on Community Radio will also be held as part of WAVES which will deliberate and focus on issues related to latest trends, policies and programmes for empowering abilities to strengthen engagement with the local community through the powerful platform of community radio.

    WAVES Culturals will be showcasing diverse performances and presentations, blending Indian and international talent. The event aims to recognize the transformative power of media and entertainment in fostering cultural exchange and harmony.

    Hence, whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the first edition of the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.

    WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR).

    For details, visit https://wavesindia.org/

    To know about the schedule of the 4-day mega event, click here

    Follow PIB to stay updated on WAVES 2025

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES 2025 CreatoSphere – Showcasing the Ingenuity of ‘Create in India Challenges’

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES 2025 CreatoSphere – Showcasing the Ingenuity of ‘Create in India Challenges’

    ‘WAVES Creator Awards’ to celebrate and foster creative talents and potential in India and the world

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 7:28PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 30 April 2025

     

    The Create in India Challenge (CIC) Season 1, launched as a flagship initiative under the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), is gearing up for a spectacular finale starting tomorrow at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai. Notably, CIC Season 1 has achieved a major milestone, crossing 1 lakh registrations, with the total number now standing at an impressive 1,01,349. The initiative has drawn participants from over 60 countries, underlining its global appeal and reach. From this exceptional pool of talent, 750 finalists will get the opportunity to showcase their creative skills and outcomes at CreatoSphere—a specially curated platform featuring innovation across animation, comics, AI, XR, gaming, music, and more, as part of WAVES 2025.

    What is CreatoSphere?
    CreatoSphere is an immersive universe of innovation and ingenuity, curated as the ultimate destination for transforming ideas into experiences. A space where creators take center stage, it celebrates the spirit of imagination, experimentation, and artistic excellence across a wide spectrum of media and entertainment sectors—from virtual reality to films, VFX to comics, animation to gaming, and from music to broadcasting and digital media. Here, the top creative minds from around the world—the finalists of the ‘Create in India Challenges’—come together to spark dialogue, ignite innovation, build partnerships, and showcase their work while connecting India’s creative energy with global audiences.

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision and mission of “Create in India, Create for the World” lies at the heart of the ‘Create in India Challenges’ and is encapsulated in its motto ‘Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries’. This initiative, a core component of WAVES, has emerged as a powerful expression of India’s creative ambition, reaffirming the nation’s rising leadership in the global media and entertainment industry and shaping the future of the sector. It truly embodies the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—an ancient Indian philosophy that sees the world as one family.

    The scale and impact of Create in India Challenge Season 1 are unprecedented, transforming the initiative into a global creative movement. With over 1,100 international entries, these challenges have become truly global in their very first season. The top-class jury, with its keen insights and robust selection criteria, has shortlisted the best finalists across all challenges to showcase their ingenuity at CreatoSphere—including participants from all 28 States and 8 Union Territories of India, as well as from over 20 countries. These achievements underscore the diversity, excellence, and global resonance of the Create in India Challenge and CreatoSphere.

     

    Over four dynamic days, delegates, creators, and participants will experience a vibrant confluence of creativity, learning, and unity in diversity. Through specially curated masterclasses, panel discussions, workshops, presentations, and showcases, CreatoSphere fosters meaningful dialogue and forward-looking ideas in a professional setting. It brings together sectors such as AVGC-XR, broadcasting, films, music, digital, and social media. Nine specialised zones—Virtual Lok, VFX Vault, Film Fiesta, Animation Alley, Comic Kona, Music Mania, AIRWAVES, Digital Domain, and Game On—will showcase the pioneering outcomes of these challenges.

    To provide a platform for the young creators of tomorrow, CreatoSphere also features the grand ‘Creators Awards’ ceremony—a red-carpet event honouring the winners of the Create in India Challenges with the prestigious ‘WAVES Creator Awards’. This gala celebration will confer top honours on creative champions in the presence of renowned artists, celebrities, and industry leaders from the M&E sector. The winners of the musical challenges will captivate audiences with their most enchanting compositions. CreatoSphere thus serves both as a hub of innovation and a cultural carnival, celebrating the multiverse of India’s creative prowess.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh Takes Charge as Director General & CEO of Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs(IICA), bringing Over 30 Years of Expertise in Finance, Law, and Governance

    Source: Government of India

    Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh Takes Charge as Director General & CEO of Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs(IICA), bringing Over 30 Years of Expertise in Finance, Law, and Governance

    Shri Singh has served in key positions in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs including IEPFA, IBBI, and other important institutions

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 7:51PM by PIB Delhi

     Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh, a distinguished officer of the Indian Post & Telecommunication Accounts and Finance Service (IP&TAFS), 1992 batch, has assumed charge as the new Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), which is a think tank under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India. With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, Shri Singh brings with him a wealth of experience in Finance, Corporate law, Insolvency, Corporate Social Responsibility, ESG Reporting, Public Policy, E-Governance, and Capacity Building.

     

    He has previously served in various key roles including Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, CEO of the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), and as Member of the Governing Body of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI).  He was also Government nominee to the Central Council of the Indian Institute of Company Secretaries and Indian Institute of Chartered Accountants of India from 2019 -2021. Notably, he also held the position of DG & CEO of IICA during 2017–18, when he led a remarkable turnaround of the institute, making it financially self-sustaining.

    He was Member Secretary of the Insolvency Law Committee (ILC) from 2018 to 2021.He played an important role in implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code and subsequent amendments to the code up including amendment Act on Pre-packaged insolvency resolution, thereby making the Code more responsive to the needs of the economy. He also made significant contribution in establishment and strengtheningof many new institutions in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs such as NCLT, NCLAT, IEPFA and IBBI.

     He possesses core competency in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and played a pivotal role in assisting the Ministry of Corporate Affairs in launching the National CSR Awards Scheme, which aims to benchmark best CSR practices across the country. He also served as the Member & Convener of the High-Level Committee on Corporate Social Responsibility, contributing significantly to the finalization and submission of the committee’s report in 2019. Furthermore, he played a critical role in overhauling the CSR Rules, 2014, including revamping reporting formats and development of transparent systems for CSR disclosures, enhancing ease of doing business and minimising discretion.

    A thought leader in sustainable corporate governance, Shri Singh chaired the Committee on Business Responsibility Reporting (BRR) and submitted a comprehensive report in August 2020. This landmark work laid the foundation for SEBI’s mandate on Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) for the top 1000 listed companies on a voluntary basis from FY 2021–22.

    Shri Singh holds academic degrees from prestigious institutions including JNU (MA &M.Phil in Sociology), FMS Delhi (MBA in Finance), and Delhi University (LLB and BA Hons in History). His international stint as Capacity Development Advisor with UNDP Afghanistan adds a global dimension to his profile.

    His return to IICA signals a promising new chapter for the institute as it continues to serve as a think tank, policy laboratory, and capacity development hub under the aegis of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Shri Singh’s visionary leadership is expected to further IICA’s mission of promoting responsible corporate governance, sustainability, and innovation in India’s dynamic business environment.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah hails the decision of the CCPA led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to include caste census in the upcoming census as a historic decision of the Modi Government under its commitment to social justice

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah hails the decision of the CCPA led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to include caste census in the upcoming census as a historic decision of the Modi Government under its commitment to social justice

    The Modi government’s decision will empower all economically and socially backward classes and promote inclusion

    This decision gives a message of strong commitment towards social equality and the rights of every section

    The main opposition party and its allies opposed the caste census for decades while in power and played politics over it while in the opposition

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 6:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah hailed the decision of Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to include caste census in the upcoming census as a historic decision of the Modi Government under its commitment to social justice.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation in a post on X platform said, the CCPA meeting held under the leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji today corrected a historical wrong by deciding in favour of the integration of caste enumeration with the population census, and sent the message of its firm commitment to social equity and rights for every section of the society.

    Shri Amit Shah said, the Congress and its allied parties opposed caste enumeration when they wielded power for decades but made it their electoral plank when in opposition. This decision will empower all economically and socially disadvantaged sections, promote inclusion, and pave new paths for the progress of the underprivileged.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHAI to develop 6-lane Access Controlled Agra-Gwalior Greenfield Expressway on BOT (Toll) Mode

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 7:46PM by PIB Delhi

    To enhance connectivity between the tourism hubs of Agra and Gwalior, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will develop 88 km long 6-lane access controlled Agra-Gwalior Greenfield Expressway (NH-719D). NHAI, today signed a concession agreement for the implementation of project with M/s G.R. Infraprojects Ltd., in presence of NHAI Chairman, Shri Santosh Kumar Yadav and senior officials of NHAI and the Concessionaire. The Agra-Gwalior Greenfield Expressway will start from Deori village in Agra and terminate at Susera village in Gwalior. The project shall be developed at a Total Capital Cost  of Rs. 4613 crore (including LA cost) on Build Operate Transfer (Toll) Mode.

    The concession period of the contract is 20 years, including construction period of 30 months. The authority will provide construction support of Rs. 820 crore to the Concessionaire during the construction period, which will be linked to the project progress. Overlay/strengthening, road safety and improvement measures for the existing National Highway on NH-44 have also been included in the Agra-Gwalior project agreement.

    The project has been awarded on quoted @17 .170 % premium in the form of revenue shares of the realisable fee against expected premium @2.42%. The premium shall be payable from Second year post project completion which will be increased by 1% of the realisable free every year in subsequent years for remaining concession period.

    The greenfield access controlled expressway will traverse through the states of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. It will not only provide high-speed connectivity between Agra and Gwalior but also will help to decongest various cities and industrial areas on the existing Agra-Gwalior Section of NH-44. The expressway will cut travel time, reduce carbon footprint and enhance logistics efficiency of commercial and freight movement between Agra, Dholpur, Morena and Gwalior.

    The greenfield expressway will feature eight major bridges, 23 minor bridges, six flyovers, one Rail-Over-Bridge and 192 culverts. The project will also pass through the National Chambal wildlife sanctuary. As part of wildlife mitigation measures, a cable stayed bridge on river Chambal has been planned for the conservation of ‘Gadiyal’ in the river waters. Apart from this, other wildlife mitigation measures such as sound barriers and light cutters will also be provided on the bridge.

    The Government of India has been encouraging Public-Private Partnership for Build-Operate-Transfer (Toll) projects. Recently, NHAI signed a concession agreement to develop 121 km long Guwahati Ring Road on Build Operate Transfer (Toll) mode. Robust Public-Private Partnership in the road sector will contribute towards the development as well as operations and maintenance of world class National Highway Network in the country.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INS KOCHI ARRIVES AT MALE, MALDIVES FOR HANDING OVER MNDF CGS HURAVEE

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 APR 2025 6:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Navy’s frontline Guided Missile Destroyer, INS Kochi, arrived at Male, Maldives, on 28 Apr 25 with Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF) CGS Huravee, which underwent Normal Refit at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai from Dec 24 till Apr 25.

    Shri G. Balasubramanian, High Commissioner of India to the Maldives, handed over MNDF CGS Huravee to Maj Gen Ibrahim Hilmy, Chief of Defence Force, MNDF, at a ceremony held at the MNDF Coast Guard Jetty.

    INS Kochi’s visit highlights the strong maritime links between India and the Maldives and emphasises the Indian Navy’s commitment to security, peace and freedom of navigation in the region. In keeping with the two nations’ friendly relations, Maldivian authorities warmly welcomed the ship.

    As part of the ship’s visit, Capt Mahesh C Moudgil, Commanding Officer, INS Kochi, called on Maj Gen Ibrahim Hilmy, Chief of Defence Force, MNDF and Brig Gen Mohammed Saleem, Commandant, Coast Guard MNDF.

    During the ship’s stay in harbour, bilateral meetings, cross-deck visits and sports fixtures have been planned between the Indian Navy and the MNDF.

    INS Kochi was commissioned on 30 Sept 15 and is part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet, which is based in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command.

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