Category: India

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island is a winner in 2025 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards contest for Best Aquarium

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island is a winner in 2025 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards contest for Best Aquarium

    N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island is a winner in 2025 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards contest for Best Aquarium
    jejohnson6

    The N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island is honored and thrilled to announce that it is a winner in the 2025 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards contest for Best Aquarium. Nominees from across the United States were selected by an editorial panel of travel experts and Newsweek contributors. Polls closed after a public voting period of 28 days during the month of March. The top ten winners were announced on April 3.

    Newsweek’s description of the N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island praised the Aquarium’s flagship Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation Center, also known as the S.T.A.R. Center. “Known for its stellar sea turtle rehab center, the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island has something for everyone, from the alligators and turtles of the Outer Banks to the Atlantic’s sharks, jellies and of course, sea turtles,” the panelists stated. The national publication, which reaches 100 million people each month, also highlights the Aquarium’s impressive Graveyard of the Atlantic exhibit, a 285,000-gallon ocean habitat featuring a model of the Civil War–era USS Monitor that serves as a home to sand tiger sharks, tarpon, sheepshead, Atlantic spadefish and more.

    Responding to the win, Larry Warner, director of the Aquarium said, “The entire team at the Aquarium takes the work they do for our animals and our guests extremely seriously and with a great deal of pride. It is an honor to be a nominee, but to then be voted by the public as a Best Aquarium winner for Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Award is a validation of the team’s pride and passion.”

    A 61,000 square-foot facility sited on 16 acres, the Aquarium welcomes an average of 320,000 guests each year, including volunteers and students on school field trips. The 3,000-square-foot S.T.A.R. Center provides medical care and rehabilitation assistance to sea turtles, mostly loggerhead, Kemps ridley and greens. During the winter of 2024-25, the Aquarium provided care to nearly 800 cold-stunned sea turtles and has since successfully rehabilitated and released over 600 of those sea turtles into the warmer waters of the Gulf Stream. Founded in 1976, the Aquarium is celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2026.

    About the North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island

    Located on the Outer Banks, the N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island is part of N.C. Aquariums, which includes four attractions along North Carolina’s coast and is a division of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Close to Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, the Aquarium is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission: ages 3–12, $10.95; ages 13–61, $12.95; ages 62 +, $11.95. Children 2 and under and North Carolina Aquarium Society members are admitted free of charge. For more information, visit www.ncaquariums.com/roanoke-island

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov

    Apr 7, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Prominent Educator Nathan C. Newbold to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Prominent Educator Nathan C. Newbold to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    Prominent Educator Nathan C. Newbold to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker
    jejohnson6

    A prominent education leader who worked with African American students soon will be recognized with a North Carolina Highway Historical Marker.

    The marker commemorating Nathan C. Newbold will be dedicated during a ceremony Friday, April 25, at 1 p.m., at the corner of Hillsborough Street and West Park Drive in Raleigh.

    Newbold, an educator, public servant, reformer, and longtime director of the Division of Negro Education in North Carolina was born in Pasquotank County, near Elizabeth City, on Dec. 27, 1871. He enrolled at Trinity College (later renamed Duke University) in 1894. He began his public service as a teacher and principal in eastern North Carolina and served as superintendent of schools in Asheboro, Roxboro, and Washington County.

    In 1913, Newbold moved to Raleigh and became the state’s first state agent for Negro Education where he sought to expand educational opportunities for Black students. He convinced the state legislature and local governments to allocate matching funds to build rural schools.

    Newbold’s enthusiasm for education led him to contact Julius Rosenwald and arrange for funding for a school to be built in Chowan County. This was one of the first Rosenwald Schools to be built outside of the Tuskegee area in Alabama. Over the years, Newbold and his team secured funding for over 843 Rosenwald Schools in North Carolina, more than any other state.

    In 1920, following a state educational survey, he outlined to the State Board of Education a plan to create an entire Division of Negro Education. The plan was approved, $15,000 in funding was appropriated by the General Assembly, and Newbold was named division director in 1921. He retired from that position in 1950, 29 years later.

    Newbold was a founding member of the North Carolina Commission for Interracial Cooperation and served as the director of the Division of Cooperation in Education and Race Relations, a project sponsored by the State Department of Public Education, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina.

    He died at his home in Raleigh on Dec. 23, 1957, at the age of 85, after having given a full life to work across race and religious lines.

    The marker describes Newbold as a “White advocate for Black opportunities within the system of segregation.” For more information about the historical marker, please visit https://www.dncr.nc.gov/blog/2024/06/27/nathan-newbold-1871-1957-h-127, or call (919) 814-6625.

    The Highway Historical Marker Program is a collaboration between the N.C. departments of Natural and Cultural Resources and Transportation.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Apr 10, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IADC MIT Student Chapter Wins “Inter Student Chapter Sports Championship”

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: IADC MIT Student Chapter Wins “Inter Student Chapter Sports Championship”

    The IADC MIT Student Chapter recently formed a team to compete in the first ever “Inter Student Chapter Sports Championship” organized by the MIT Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry Student Chapter. Team IADC lost the first match, then made a comeback to win the tournament.

    On LinkedIn, the Chapter stated: “It’s events and moments like these that create a sense of brotherhood and companionship among the members that help them strive for more victories.”

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the inaugural session of the Annual Trade Expo 2025 of Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry via video conferencing

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the inaugural session of the Annual Trade Expo 2025 of Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry via video conferencing

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has progressed in every sector through various systems, development initiatives, and efforts to become a global leader

    Gujarat, acting as the gateway to the global economy, has made a significant contribution to the country’s development

    Today, Gujarat has emerged as a pioneer in many sectors that will shape the global economy over the next 25 years

    The Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has played a crucial role in Gujarat’s development

    GCCI has inspired youth with entrepreneurship, courage, and the zeal to do business in any corner of the world

    GCCI should integrate the tradition of small-scale industries with startups and modernise it for the benefit of the youth

    In Gujarat, industries are provided with a conducive, industry-friendly environment, free from political interference and strikes

    GCCI has worked hard to realize the vision of ‘Grow Business and Transform Gujarat’ and has established excellent dialogue with the government

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 4:27PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today addressed the inaugural session of theAnnual Trade Expo 2025 of Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry via video conferencing. On this occasion, several dignitaries, including the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel, were present.

    In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry has played a very important role in the development of Gujarat. He mentioned that the foundation of the Chamber was laid under the leadership of Kasturbhai Sheth. Shri Shah said that the Chamber has inspired the youth with entrepreneurship, courage, and the enthusiasm to do business anywhere in the world. He further stated that for 75 consecutive years, the Chamber has upheld that tradition, maintained dialogue with the government, cared for public interest, and stood shoulder to shoulder with the people during natural calamities.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the Chamber, having completed its 75-year journey, is now moving toward the milestone of 100 years. He emphasized that the leadership of the Chamber should professionally prepare a roadmap for this journey from 75 to 100 years and align it with Gujarat’s development to take it forward. He stated that to ensure the spirit of industrial entrepreneurship remains alive and is further encouragedamong Gujarat’s youth, the Chamber should formulate a plan.

    He pointed out that MSMEs are our greatest asset, and if we look back, every major industry has once begun as a small-scale enterprise. Shri Shah said that Gujarat’s small industries have made a significant contribution to the nation’s industrial growth. He added that the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry should integrate the tradition of small industries with startups and modernize it to create a comprehensive ecosystem for the youth. He said, the Chambershould act as a bridge between the government, small industries, and aspiring young entrepreneurs.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that if the Chamber wants to remain relevant in the times to come, it must go beyond just organizing events and instead establish a permanent mechanism within the Chamber to support industries, industrial entrepreneurs, and industrialists. He stated that if the Chamber’s office bearers create such a system in collaboration with professionals, the relevance of the Chamber can be sustained for the next 25 years. He further added that the Chamber can easily serve as a bridge between the government and new industrialists, the government and the youth, and the government and the industrialists who are eager to contribute to development.

    Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah stated that Gujarat today showcases a vibrant and diverse industrial ecosystem—ranging from traditional industries to cutting-edge technology, IT, infrastructure, MSMEs, startups, and pioneering sectors. He emphasized that entrepreneurs looking to establish industries in Gujarat are assured of a business-friendly environment, free from political interference, supported by efficient systems and a strike-free atmosphere. Shri Shah recalled that during Shri Narendra Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister, the Gujarat government prioritized inclusive decision-making by engaging in meaningful dialogue with traders, industrialists, and small business owners through the Chamber of Commerce. He noted that Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel has further strengthened this pro-industry environment. He also highlighted Shri Modi’s visionary policy that robust infrastructure is the foundation of a strong economy, and a strong economy, in turn, enhances the quality of life for every citizen. As a result, Gujarat today plays a vital role in India’s growth story and is emerging as a gateway to the global economy.

    Union Home Minister said that the Chamber is advancing with the motto of ‘Gujarat’s Vision – Global Ambition’. He highlighted that over 300 individuals from diverse sectors and fields of innovation have been invited to participate in the expo that commenced today. He said that since its inception in 1949, the Chamber has made an exceptional contribution to Gujarat’s development. With more than 75 institutions and over 2.5 lakh small industrial organizations associated with it, the Chamber has played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s industrial landscape. The Home Minister emphasized the Chamber’s dedicated efforts toward realizing the motto ‘Grow Business and Transform Gujarat’, and its consistent, effective dialogue with the government. He also acknowledged the Chamber’s significant contribution to the global recognition and success of the Vibrant Gujarat initiative. Shri Shah remarked that the Chamber has been instrumental in Gujarat’s remarkable journey—from the devastating earthquake of 2001 to its emergence in 2025 as a hub for pioneering industries.

    Shri Amit Shah highlighted that Gujarat has been a pioneer in launching several transformative initiatives across the country. He stated that the concept of smart infrastructure was first envisioned in Gujarat, and the state led the way by ensuring 24-hour electricity supply in villages. Gujarat also took the early initiative to position itself as a global financial hub. He added that in 2009, Gujarat launched the e-Gram project, bringing inter-connectivity and digital services to rural areas. The state also made significant strides in reducing maternal mortality rates. Shri Shah emphasized that all these achievements were made possible under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has made remarkable progress over the past 11 years, advancing in various sectors and emerging as a global leader across multiple domains. He emphasized that these achievements have been possible due to the holistic, multidimensional, and whole-of-government approach adopted under Shri Modi’s leadership. He also acknowledged that Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel has played a key role in firmly upholding and continuing this tradition of development and good governance in Gujarat.

    Shri Amit Shah stated that Gujarat has emerged as a pioneer in all the key sectors that will shape the global economy over the next 25 years. He highlighted that the world’s largest renewable energy park has been established in Kutch, while the largest greenfield project—Dholera Smart City—is taking shape in the state. He also mentioned that the Surat-Chennai Expressway, India’s second-longest expressway, originates in Gujarat. Moreover, India’s first international financial hub, GIFT City, has been developed in Gujarat, along with the country’s first bullet train project and the first Namo Bharat Rapid Rail. Shri Shah further emphasized that Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel has provided Gujarat with a robust industrial development infrastructure, progressive policies, and an industry-friendly governance model.

    *****

    VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2120709) Visitor Counter : 62

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Review PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Schemes, Emphasize on Effective Implementation,Uttar Pradesh Reaffirms Commitment to Achieve 22 GW Solar Energy Capacity Target

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Review PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Schemes, Emphasize on Effective Implementation,Uttar Pradesh Reaffirms Commitment to Achieve 22 GW Solar Energy Capacity Target

    Union Minister Inspects Wheat Procurement Centre at Mohanlalganj Mandi, Engages with Farmers to Assess Benefits of Welfare Schemes

    “The Prime Minister’s vision is to make farmers energy self-reliant and promote low-cost farming,” : Shri Pralhad Joshi

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 7:22PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi today held a review meeting in Lucknow with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to assess the progress of wheat procurement, PM-KUSUM, and PM Surya Ghar schemes. The meeting was also attended by Uttar Pradesh Energy Minister Shri A.K. Sharma and Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, Smt. Nidhi Khare.

    Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his gratitude and said, “I thank Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi for taking time out of his busy schedule to ensure the effective ground-level implementation of these ambitious schemes that benefit farmers and citizens from low- and middle-income groups.”

    During the meeting, Uttar Pradesh reaffirmed its commitment to achieving the ambitious target of 22 GW solar energy capacity of the state. Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi acknowledged the state’s leading role in the effective implementation of flagship central schemes like PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar. He stated that “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi envisions maximum benefit to farmers through these initiatives. Under PM-KUSUM, farmers are no longer solely dependent on conventional electricity and are instead using clean and affordable solar energy for agriculture.” He added that the Central Government provides up to 90% subsidy under this scheme, enabling farmers to adopt solar systems at significantly lower costs.

    Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi also visited Duggaur village in Bakshi Ka Talab tehsil of Lucknow to inspect a solar pump project established under PM-KUSUM C-1 scheme. Local resident Mohammad Ahsan Ali Khan has installed an 11.2 kW on-grid solar power plant for his private 7.5 HP irrigation pump. The total cost of the project is ₹6,23,909, of which ₹1,87,173 was provided as central subsidy, ₹3,74,345 as state subsidy, and only ₹62,391 was contributed by the beneficiary.

    Since installation, the solar plant has generated a total of 8,945 kWh of electricity, out of which 7,100 kWh has been exported to the grid, while 1,845 kWh has been used for irrigation. This has not only given Ahsan energy independence but also enabled him to earn additional income by selling surplus power to the grid. This project stands as an inspiring model for other farmers to adopt sustainable and income-generating agricultural practices through solar energy.

    Energy Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri A. K Sharma thanked Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Shri Pralhad Joshi for handholding Uttar Pradesh and providing an allocation of 3.7 lakh pump allocation under the PM-KUSUM Scheme (Component C – Feeder Level Solarization).

    Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi visited the wheat procurement center at Mohanlalganj Mandi in Lucknow, where he observed the process of wheat procurement, cleaning, and weighing being carried out through the e-POP (Electronic Point of Procurement) machine. During his interaction with farmers, he learned how the use of this technology by the central and state governments has made the process of selling their produce more transparent, efficient, and convenient. The farmers shared that with the introduction of e-POP, weighing has become accurate, and payments are being processed quickly, enhancing their confidence in the government’s procurement system.

    ***

    PIB Lucknow| DS/SC

    (Release ID: 2120759) Visitor Counter : 119

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Ayush Brings Together Global Homoeopathy Fraternity on World Homoeopathy Day 2025 in a mega convention at Gandhinagar

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Ayush Brings Together Global Homoeopathy Fraternity on World Homoeopathy Day 2025 in a mega convention at Gandhinagar

    On this World Homoeopathy Day, we reaffirm our commitment to expanding its scope through research, education and public outreach: Ayush Minister, Shri Prataprao Jadhav

    Convention Souvenir, 8 Books, E-Portals of CCRH Library & Homoeopathy Archives, and a Documentary Film on Drug Proving Released

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 6:49PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, celebrated World Homoeopathy Day 2025 with great fervour at the Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The two-day event was organised by the Ministry through its apex research and academic institutions—Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH), National Commission for Homoeopathy (NCH), and National Institute of Homoeopathy (NIH)—bringing together leading global voices in Homoeopathy to commemorate the 270th birth anniversary of Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of Homoeopathy.

    The grand celebration underscored the theme ‘Education, Practice and Research in Homoeopathy’, and witnessed participation of over 8,000 delegates from across India and abroad, including academicians, clinicians, researchers, students, and industry professionals. The event featured panel discussions, exhibitions, scientific paper presentations, and deliberations on advancing Homoeopathy as an integral component of global and national healthcare systems.

    The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel, inaugurated the event in the presence of Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav. The event was also graced by Shri Rushikesh Patel, Health Minister, Government of Gujarat; Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush; and other senior officials.

    Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Ayush, highlighted India’s leadership in global traditional medicine systems. He said, Homoeopathy is not merely an alternative—it is a science rooted in compassion and evidence. On this World Homoeopathy Day, we reaffirm our commitment to expanding its scope through research, education and public outreach. He also emphasized CCRH’s vital role in standardizing homoeopathic medicines and preserving botanical knowledge, noting the Council’s work in pharmacognosy, physicochemical studies, and the digitization of 17,000 herbarium sheets.

    In his inaugural address, Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel applauded the Ministry of Ayush for selecting Gujarat as the host state for this historic event. He emphasized Homoeopathy’s growing relevance in modern healthcare and lauded the Ministry’s efforts to integrate Homoeopathy into public health services and national health programmes. He remarked that “This scientific and evidence-based therapy has the potential to transform public health outcomes. Gujarat is proud to contribute to this movement, especially as it is home to WHO’s Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar.”

    Delivering the keynote address, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, stated that This occasion is a tribute to Dr. Hahnemann’s visionary system of healing. With the global demand for evidence-based, integrative, and patient-centric healthcare on the rise, Homoeopathy stands well-positioned to serve future generations. The Ministry of Ayush remains committed to furthering its impact through robust research, education, and policy.”

    During the inaugural ceremony, the dignitaries released a Convention Souvenir, eight new publications, e-portals of the CCRH Library and Homoeopathy Archives, and a documentary film on drug proving, showcasing the remarkable research and documentation work undertaken in the field.

    The symposium also featured the largest-ever exhibition of the Homoeopathy industry, bridging academia and enterprise, and hosted a first-of-its-kind national-level competition to foster innovation among students and practitioners.

    ****

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2120741) Visitor Counter : 74

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Coal Reviews “Operational/ Likely to Operational” Captive/ Commercial Coal Mines

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 6:23PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Coal convened a comprehensive review meeting in New Delhi to assess the status of 79 captive and commercial coal mines classified as “Operational / Likely to be Operational.” The meeting was held on April 9, 2025 and chaired by Smt. Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary, Nominated Authority, Ministry of Coal. Director/ Nominated Authority Shri Marapally and Director Shri Ajitesh Kumar from the Ministry of Coal also attended the meeting.

    During the meeting, Smt. Brar lauded the proactive efforts of mine allottees in contributing to India’s growing coal production and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders to further enhance reforms in the sector. She underlined the transformative developments in coal mining over the past decade, attributing this progress to strong collaboration between project proponents and the government. Notably, captive and commercial coal mines now account for approximately 20% of the country’s total coal output.

    She further emphasized the importance of putting in their best efforts to obtain the required clearances within the desired timelines. She assured the allottees that the Ministry is committed to providing all necessary support and encouraged them to approach the Nominated Authority for any assistance or to address any issues they may face. She encouraged the importance of mine allottees meeting their committed production targets for the financial year 2025–26.

    Looking ahead, she expressed confidence in the ongoing partnership between the Ministry and mine developers and appreciated the consistent performance of the Nominated Authority’s office, calling it a symbol of national pride. She also announced an upcoming interactive workshop to accelerate implementation and deepen sectoral collaboration.

    The Ministry’s efforts have yielded significant results, with remarkable year-over-year (Y-o-Y) growth in both coal production and dispatch from captive and commercial mines. Coal production increased by 29.79% rising from 147.12 million tonnes (MT) during FY 2023-24, to 190.95 MT during FY 2024-25. Similarly, coal dispatch from these mines also showed significant growth of 33.36%, increasing from 142.79 MT during FY 2023-24 to 190.42 MT during FY 2024-25.

    Approximately 70 allottees, including major companies such as NTPC Ltd., Adani Power, Hindalco Industries Ltd., Jindal Steel and Power Ltd., and WBPDCL, attended the meeting. A total of 79 coal mines were reviewed during the session. Of these, 61 mines are currently producing coal, 8 are operational but not yet producing, and 10 remain non-operational. Out of the 61 operational captive and commercial coal mines, 38 have been allocated to the power sector, 11 to the non-regulated sector, and 12 are designated for the sale of coal.

    The allottees were encouraged to share detailed insights on the measures they are undertaking to enhance coal production and expedite the operationalization of their mines. The Ministry sought constructive suggestions on how production levels could be further increased, with a focus on identifying best practices, addressing bottlenecks, and leveraging available resources efficiently. Emphasis was placed on proactive planning, adoption of advanced technologies, and timely completion of statutory clearances to ensure early commencement of mining operations and sustained growth in output.

    These achievements underscore the Ministry’s commitment to reinforcing India’s energy security, reducing dependency on imports, and contributing to the nation’s economic growth. The meeting culminated in a dynamic interactive session, where mine allottees actively contributed constructive suggestions aimed at expediting coal production and accelerating project execution.

    ****

    Shuhaib T

    (Release ID: 2120734) Visitor Counter : 59

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s Renewable Energy Capacity Achieves Historic Growth in FY 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    India’s Renewable Energy Capacity Achieves Historic Growth in FY 2024-25

    Total Installed RE Capacity Reaches 220.10 GW with a Record Addition of 30 GW

    Solar at 106 GW; Wind Power Crosses 50 GW Milestone

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 6:15PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has reported robust progress in India’s clean energy sector for the Financial Year 2024–25. With a record annual capacity addition of 29.52 GW, the total installed renewable energy (RE) capacity in the country has reached 220.10 GW as of 31st March 2025, up from 198.75 GW in the previous fiscal. This performance reflects India’s steady advancement towards the target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based capacity by 2030, as part of its commitments under the ‘Panchamrit’ goals set by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

    Solar Energy Drives Growth

    Solar energy contributed the most to the year’s capacity expansion, with 23.83 GW added in FY 2024–25, a significant increase over the 15.03 GW added in the previous year. The total installed solar capacity now stands at 105.65 GW. This includes 81.01 GW from ground-mounted installations, 17.02 GW from rooftop solar, 2.87 GW from solar components of hybrid projects, and 4.74 GW from off-grid systems. The growth demonstrates continued uptake of solar energy across utility-scale and distributed categories.

    Steady Rise in Wind Installations

    Wind energy also witnessed sustained progress during the year, with 4.15 GW of new capacity added, compared to 3.25 GW in FY 2023–24. The total cumulative installed wind capacity now stands at 50.04 GW, reinforcing wind energy’s role in India’s renewable energy mix.

    Bioenergy and Small Hydro Power Maintain Momentum

    Bioenergy installations reached a total capacity of 11.58 GW, which includes 0.53 GW from off-grid and waste-to-energy projects. Small Hydro Power projects have achieved a capacity of 5.10 GW, with a further 0.44 GW under implementation. These sectors continue to complement the solar and wind segments by contributing to the decentralised and diversified nature of India’s energy landscape.

    Expanding Pipeline of Clean Energy Projects

    In addition to the installed capacities, India has 169.40 GW of renewable energy projects under implementation and 65.06 GW already tendered. This includes 65.29 GW from emerging solutions such as hybrid systems, round-the-clock (RTC) power, peaking power, and thermal + RE bundling projects. These initiatives represent a strategic shift towards ensuring grid stability and reliable supply from renewable sources.

    MNRE under Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy Shri Pralhad Joshi has been taking various key initiatives to achieve Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030. The continued growth reflects India’s commitment to its climate goals and energy security, underscoring the Government’s focused efforts to scale up renewable energy deployment across the country.

    ***

    Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2120729) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Retirement from government service does’nt mean you are retired as a citizen: Dr. Jitendra Singh Urges Superannuating Officials to be contributors and Partners in Viksit Bharat

    Source: Government of India

    Retirement from government service does’nt mean you are retired as a citizen: Dr. Jitendra Singh Urges Superannuating Officials to be contributors and Partners in Viksit Bharat

    Digital Reforms, Empowered Retirees, and a Vision for 2047: Highlights from Guwahati’s PRC and Bankers’ Workshop

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 6:12PM by PIB Delhi

    Guwahati, April 10: “Retirement from government service doesn’t mean you are retired as a citizen”, said Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh in a message that resonated deeply with the hundreds of officers nearing retirement, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, in a message that resonated deeply with the hundreds of officers nearing retirement.

    The Minister said that retirement from government service should not be seen as an end, but a transition into a new role as contributors and partners  to nation building. Addressing the 56th Pre-Retirement Counselling (PRC) Workshop and the 9th Bankers’ Awareness Program, Dr. Jitendra Singh called for a paradigm shift in the way Indian society perceives retired government servants.

    Dr Jitendra Singh said that many officers at 60 are at the prime of their, energy and expertise. “So we wish to involve them in the task of nation building and use their experiences. As the Prime Minister says, every citizen has to contribute to the making of Viksit Bharat,” he said.

    Organised by the Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) in collaboration with the Assam Government, the day-long event at the Assam Administrative Staff College featured back-to-back technical sessions on pension reforms, digital life certification, CGHS facilities, financial planning, and innovations like the Bhavishya Portal and Integrated Pensioners’ Portal. These sessions were designed to prepare retiring employees for a smooth transition, both in terms of procedural knowledge and personal empowerment.

    The workshop aimed to prepare civil servants for a smooth post-retirement transition, not just in terms of paperwork but also in purpose. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the need for institutional mechanisms that can integrate retirees into developmental roles based on their skills and inclinations.Outlining several reforms undertaken by the Government over the past decade to simplify pension procedures, Dr. Jitendra Singh recalled how superannuating officers earlier had to run from one office to another, often losing months before receiving their first pension payment. “That era is over,” he said. “Today, with digital PPOs, integrated pension portals like Bhavishya, and face authentication tools, we’ve eliminated procedural delays and harassment.”

    He lauded the role of the Department of Pensions under Secretary V. Srinivas, noting how Indian digital pension practices are now being emulated by countries like Maldives, Mongolia, and Bangladesh. The success of initiatives such as Digital Life Certificate (DLC), CPGRAMS, and face authentication, he said, are examples of how technology can bring dignity and efficiency to governance.

    Going beyond procedural ease, Dr. Jitendra Singh proposed the creation of a national directory of retired officers, based on their expertise and interests. “We will prepare a performa to capture details like qualification, experience, and preferred areas of work, so that ministries can consult it and engage retirees in policy committees or advisory roles,” he explained.

    The Minister also drew attention to evolving societal needs and reforms in pension rules—such as the inclusion of divorced daughters, faster processing for widows, and compassionate consideration for families of missing employees—that reflect a progressive and humane approach.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh proposed developing a national database of retired officers with their skillsets, experience, and interests, enabling government departments to draw on their expertise post-retirement. “Many citizens have taken up start-ups or pursued creative passions after retirement. The first successful millet-based start-up came from a scientist who retired from a government institute. You can begin anew at any age,” he said.

    In a lighter moment, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted how the retirement phase has even helped uncover hidden talents. “There are those who never got to pursue music or writing or any other pursuit in their service years. Retirement gives you the freedom. We can even help with an audition at All India Radio if you say you want to sing,” he quipped, drawing laughter and applause.

    Ending on an empowering note, the Minister urged retiring officers not to see themselves as passive recipients of pension but as active nation-builders. “You are retiring as government officials, not as citizens. Your best may be yet to come,” he said.

    The daylong event saw the address of Shri V. Srinivas, Secretary, DoPPW, Shri Dhrubajyoti Sengupta, Joint Secretary and remarks from key stakeholders, including SBI’s Deputy MD Shri Shamsher Singh, Additional Secretary from the Health Ministry Ms. Roli Singh, IG BSF Shri Sanjay Gaur, and General Manager of Northeast Frontier Railway Shri Chetan Shrivastava.

    With India envisioning itself as a developed nation by 2047, Dr. Jitendra Singh’s remarks offered a timely reminder that wisdom, dedication, and public service do not retire—they evolve.

    ****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2120728) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Laguna Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Assault Charges Involving Serious Injuries

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Laguna man pleaded guilty to federal assault charges for a violent attack that left the victim hospitalized with serious injuries.

    According to court records, on August 18, 2023, Kenzie Alonzo, 26, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Laguna, physically assaulted Jane Doe during a verbal altercation. As a result, Jane Doe sustained serious bodily injury, including a concussion, severe bruising, and bite marks, requiring emergency medical transport and hospitalization.

    At sentencing, Alonzo faces up to 10 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Alonzo will be subject to three years of supervised release.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case with assistance from the Zia Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: First Federal Savings Bank Awarded $27,500 in Funds to Habitat for Humanity Through FHLBank Indianapolis Grant Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EVANSVILLE, Ind., April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Federal Savings Bank, a member bank of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (FHLBank Indianapolis), awarded Habitat for Humanity $27,500 in grant funds through the Community Multiplier – Member Match Program.

    A press conference and check presentation ceremony were hosted on Wednesday, April 9 at 3:30 PM CST at First Federal Savings Bank’s corporate headquarters located at 5001 Davis Lant Drive Evansville, IN 47715.

    The $27,500 grant will support Habitat for Humanity’s educational assistance programs for current and prospective homeowners.

    “We are proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity in support of their educational assistance programs for current and prospective homeowners,” said Courtney Schmitt, VP, Marketing Manager at First Federal Savings Bank. “Homeownership is a cornerstone of financial stability, and by investing in these programs, we are helping individuals and families build stronger, more secure futures. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to empowering communities through financial education and support.”

    Beth Folz, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Evansville stated “We were excited to hear from First Federal Savings Bank that we had been selected to receive this wonderful grant from the Community Multiplier program. We are thrilled for the future Habitat homeowners who will be impacted by the financial education programs that we can offer due to this tremendous support.”

    The Community Multiplier – Member Match program is FHLBank Indianapolis’ newest program offering, designed to support targeted affordable housing initiatives that fall outside of FHLBank Indianapolis’ other grant programs.   Community Multiplier offers grants between $25,000 and $125,000 for non-profit organizations headquartered in Indiana or Michigan who partner with an FHLBank Indianapolis member financial institution on targeted affordable housing initiatives. With a 10% matching funds commitment from the member financial institution, FHLBank Indianapolis is providing grants between $25,000 and $125,000. The program opened March 27, 2025 with a $5 million allocation and is available until October 1, 2025, or until funds are exhausted.

    About First Federal Savings Bank Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

    First Federal Savings Bank was established on Evansville, Indiana’s Westside in 1904. A community bank offering eight locations in Posey, Vanderburgh, Warrick, and Henderson County. First Federal Savings Bank is also proud to offer Home Building Savings Bank locations in Daviess and Pike County.

    Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis: Building Partnerships. Serving Communities.

    FHLBank Indianapolis is a regional bank included in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. FHLBanks are government-sponsored enterprises created by Congress to ensure access to low-cost funding for their member financial institutions, with particular attention paid to providing solutions that support the housing and small business needs of members’ customers. FHLBanks are privately capitalized and funded and receive no Congressional appropriations. FHLBank Indianapolis is owned by its Indiana and Michigan financial institution members, including commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies, savings institutions and community development financial institutions. For more information about FHLBank Indianapolis, visit www.fhlbi.com and follow the Bank on LinkedIn and X (formerly known as Twitter) at @FHLBankIndy.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal jury convicts South Dakota man of sexually abusing two victims on Fort Belknap Indian Reservation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GREAT FALLS — A federal jury yesterday convicted a South Dakota man of multiple crimes involving the sexual abuse of two victims on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    After a two-day trial, the jury found the defendant, Farron Gene American Horse, Sr., 40, guilty of sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact as charged in an indictment. On the more serious charge of sexual abuse, American Horse faces up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years to life of supervised release.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The Court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for July 17, 2025. American Horse will remain in custody pending further proceedings.

    “Protecting the public on our Native American reservations has been, and remains, a top priority for the Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Office here in Montana, especially vulnerable victims like those in this case. The defendant’s decision to abuse the children he was supposed to be caring for, is abhorrent and tragic. The jury’s guilty verdict should serve as a warning to others who would abuse others that they will be caught and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. I want to thank the Assistant U. S. Attorneys and staff in our office, and the law enforcement agents from the FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services for their hard work on the case.” U.S. Attorney Alme said.

    The government alleged at trial and in court documents that American Horse sexually abused the victims in September and October 2020 in Hays, on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. In the summer of 2020, American Horse went to live with a woman and her family in Hays and helped look after the children. In October 2020, one victim, identified as Jane Doe 1, who had attained the age of 12 years but had not yet reached the age of 16 years, disclosed being sexually abused by American Horse while spending the night at the woman’s residence. About this time, another victim, identified as Jane Doe 2, who also had attained the age of 12 years but had not yet reached the age of 16 years, disclosed that American Horse had touched her while she was sleeping at the woman’s home weeks earlier.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mrvan Announces Community Conversations Schedule

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Frank J. Mrvan announced his Community Conversations to be held throughout Indiana’s First Congressional District on Thursday, April 24, 2025. 

    Congressman Mrvan stated, “I invite residents to attend one of my Community Conversations that I will be holding on April 24, 2025.  I believe these opportunities allow me to hear directly from constituents and better represent our collective interests in our nation’s capital.  Additionally, I will provide a brief update on the 119th Session of Congress and my work on the House Appropriations Committee.”

    Thursday – April 24, 2025

    • 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Michigan City – City Hall Council Chambers, 100 East Michigan Boulevard, Michigan City, IN 46360
    • 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. – Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383
    • 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Indiana University Northwest, Bergland Auditorium in the Savannah Center, 65 West 33rd Avenue, Gary, IN 46408

    Please note that all times listed are Central Standard Time.  

    Additional Community Conversations are planned to be held in other locations in Indiana’s First Congressional District in the coming months.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 10 April 2025 Departmental update Worldwide rally for maternal and newborn health marks World Health Day 2025

    Source: World Health Organisation

    On the occasion of the World Health Day 2025 dedicated to the theme of Healthier beginnings, hopeful futures, over 100 global offices of the World Health Organization (WHO) have organized wide-ranging public advocacy actions in collaboration with Member States, communities, health workers, partner and donor agencies and civil society organizations.

    The unprecedented global action to defend maternal and newborn health care services highlights the importance of protecting critical maternal, newborn health related services that are increasingly under threat of funding challenges affecting the global health sector.
     

    World Health Day 2025 actions by WHO offices

    African Region

    • Angola launched a dynamic Facebook live event and media campaign with UNICEF and UNFPA and partners.
    • Burundi orchestrated a 10-day celebration featuring refugee clinic visits, school disease screenings, and maternal health workshops.
    • Central African Republic hosted a presidential-level celebration launching maternal health roadmap with nationwide media coverage.
    • Chad mobilized 250 UN volunteers for the campaign, culminating in a ministerial ceremony and refugee camp celebrations.
    • Republic of the Congo featured a high-profile Walk the Talk event with the Regional Director to launch a maternal death management system, among other events.
    • Comoros held a joint event with the Directorate of Family Health.
    • Côte d’Ivoire spotlighted reproductive health of disabled women through powerful exhibitions and data showcases.
    • Eritrea conducted knowledge competitions and community visits to maternal waiting homes led by Minister of Health, among other events.
    • Eswatini organized community dialogues on maternal issues with strategic media placements across multiple platforms.
    • The Gambia commemorated through media engagements on national radio and TV networks.
    • Guinea implemented nationwide vaccination campaigns alongside free consultations and high-level advocacy efforts.
    • Lesotho engaged the Prime Minister in a community event complemented by university debates and a scientific symposium.
    • Liberia held a Walk the Talk event with the Ministry of Health.
    • Madagascar combined official ceremonies with free health care services, video broadcasts, among many other activities including an energetic Zumba fitness event.
    • Malawi delivered a bilingual media campaign featuring the Minister of Health addressing maternal and neonatal health priorities.
    • Mali showcased perinatal clinic facilities through an official ceremony and comprehensive media coverage.
    • Mauritania blended cultural performances with scientific panels on reproductive health in a high-impact ceremony.
    • Nigeria: WHO Nigeria, MOH and partners organized a walk to sensitize on improving maternal and newborn health, ending preventable deaths, and prioritizing women’s long-term well-being.
    • South Sudan: amidst the ongoing security concerns, no public events were held but advocacy messages were disseminated.
    • Republic of Sierra Leone facilitated the First Lady’s visit to a maternal hospital alongside diplomatic tours of health monitoring facilities.
    • South Africa produced impact videos and coordinated joint statements with the National Department of Health across media platforms.
    • Uganda published compelling human-interest stories on maternal health alongside policy dialogues and community health check-ups, among many other events (see here).
    • Zambia released a presidential video message highlighting maternal health partnerships and community outreach initiatives (also see here and here).
    • Tanzania: WHO joined the Ministry of Health and partners for the climax of National Health Week.

    WHO Region of the Americas/Pan American Health Organization

    • The Bahamas launched the SIP+ maternal health initiative through a strategic press conference and social media campaign.
    • Belize hosted a media breakfast with the Ministry of Health featuring targeted video content for multiple platforms.
    • Chile partnered with the Ministry of Health for a nationwide campaign launch with sustained media presence.
    • Colombia showcased traditional midwifery alongside technical experts in a ministerial panel on maternal mortality reduction.
    • Cuba celebrated zero maternal deaths in Villa Clara province through a festival and a multi-agency scientific symposium.
    • Guatemala secured vice presidential participation for a high-profile campaign launch at the national palace.
    • Guyana transformed the Rosignol Health Centre into a community hub with a health fair and live social media coverage (also see here).
    • Haiti launched a National Health Week with the Prime Minister featuring themed days and nationwide health fairs.
    • Suriname combined a public health fair with a technical forum on Perinatal Health Information System implementation.
    • Trinidad and Tobago placed strategic advertorials in major newspapers highlighting SIP implementation success.

    WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region

    • Bahrain coordinated joint UN-Ministry of Health events with a cross-platform media campaign, among other events (see here and here).
    • Djibouti celebrated the dual milestone of World Health Day and 40 years of WHO presence with a maternal health focus.
    • Jordan launched a Let’s talk about health video from the WHO country office staff to share insights and inspire change.
    • Iraq designed a comprehensive Health Week with daily themes engaging youth, media, and community volunteers.
    • Kuwait secured prime national TV coverage with coordinated social media messaging (see here and here).
    • Oman mobilized a multi-ministry response integrating higher education institutions in maternal health initiatives.
    • Pakistan engaged government officials in high-visibility events complemented by human interest stories and op-eds.
    • Tunisia implemented Health Champions Week featuring centre visits and a bilingual media campaign.

    WHO European Region

    • Republic of Armenia combined provincial and ministerial leadership in a women’s health event with national TV coverage.
    • Republic of Azerbaijan inaugurated a cutting-edge simulation laboratory at Azerbaijan Medical University with national television coverage.
    • Bosnia and Herzegovina distributed ministerial certificates alongside strategic op-eds in local newspapers.
    • Bulgaria honoured Bulgarian nurses through a campaign supporting a new national nursing strategy with UNICEF amplification.
    • Cyprus launched the National Mental Health Strategy alongside breastfeeding advocacy initiatives.
    • Czechia leveraged World Health Day to amplify a national alcohol action plan through high-profile press events.
    • Estonia published influential op-eds supporting early childhood vaccination with a multi-stakeholder social media campaign.
    • Hellenic Republic unveiled WHO European Quality Standards for child/youth mental health services with expert consultation.
    • Hungary launched a targeted campaign on heatwave impacts during pregnancy featuring expert recommendations.
    • Kazakhstan mobilized the Ministry of Health and Astana Medical University for a dynamic Walk the Talk event.
    • Kyrgyz Republic engaged university students through specialized talks on maternal and newborn health priorities.
    • Montenegro secured a national television interview alongside a smoking cessation initiative for pregnant women.
    • North Macedonia combined a media briefing with a doctors’ association and prime-time national TV news coverage.
    • Republic of Moldova produced a national TV health series complemented by school campaigns and a breastfeeding caravan.
    • Romania showcased kangaroo mother care through a strategic partners exhibition and technical roundtables.
    • Serbia illuminated Belgrade Tower with campaign messaging alongside prime-time media interviews.
    • Türkiye lit the iconic Atakule landmark while hosting a university seminar with the Ministry of Health and UN agencies.
    • Turkmenistan organized a bicycle marathon and youth dialogue with health network members.
    • Republic of Uzbekistan unveiled a maternal health mural at the National Center of Mother and Child with a influencer video series.

    WHO South-East Asia Region

    • Bangladesh hosted a national event at Osmani Memorial Auditorium with a newspaper supplement and district-level activities.
    • Bhutan combined a team-building hike with a celebration featuring video messages from the Minister of Health.
    • India showcased achievements in reducing maternal and child mortality rates through a regional webinar (also see here).
    • Indonesia celebrated 75 years of WHO partnership through an online talk show and targeted social media campaign.
    • Nepal highlighted mortality rate reductions through ministerial messages and video testimonies.
    • Sri Lanka delivered a specialized webinar series on maternal health topics with technical policy briefs.
    • Thailand focused on preterm infant care through a Department of Health event featuring regional voices.
    • Timor-Leste launched the Every Newborn Action Plan alongside a Ministry of HealthWHO exhibition and technical seminar.

    WHO Western Pacific Region

    • Cambodia connected health workers nationwide through a virtual gathering with parliamentary engagement.
    • China secured ministerial leadership for a National Health Commission event featuring the Director-General’s video remarks.
    • Lao People’s Democratic Republic published a joint WR/Minister of Health opinion piece with a planned UN partner MCH event.
    • Mongolia simultaneously launched the Healthy Newborn Initiative and the Cervical Cancer Elimination Programme.
    • Independent State of Papua New Guinea implemented a comprehensive activity series including regulatory workshops and violence prevention initiatives.
    • South Pacific coordinated a joint release with regional partners while launching the WHO South Pacific LinkedIn platform.
    • Solomon Islands celebrated maternal and child health achievements with medical workers and ministry officials.
    • Socialist Republic of Viet Nam partnered with the Young Physicians Association for a Hanoi event with strategic opinion pieces in the national media.

    Worldwide actions exemplified above, among many others, generate a strong response to the global call issued by UN agencies on World Health Day, raising alarm on the threat of major backsliding of maternal and newborn health.

    World Health Day 2025 marks WHO’s 77th birthday and kicks off a year-long campaign on maternal and newborn health. WHO urges governments and the health community to ramp up efforts to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths, and to prioritize women’s longer-term health and well-being.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Assessing the Global Climate in March 2025

    Source: US National Oceanographic Data Center

    March Highlights:

    Temperature

    The March global surface temperature was 2.36°F (1.31°C) above the 20th-century average of 54.9°F (12.7°C), making it the third-warmest March on record. According to NCEI’s Global Annual Temperature Outlook, there is a 6% chance that 2025 will rank as the warmest year on record. 

    Land and Ocean Temperature Percentiles for March 2025 (°C). Red indicates warmer than average and blue indicates colder than average.

    It was the second-warmest March for the global land air temperature and the second-warmest March for the global ocean surface temperature. Europe and Oceania had their warmest Marches on record, and Africa ranked third warmest.

    March temperatures were above average across much of the global land surface, particularly over the Arctic, Alaska, the eastern U.S., most of Europe, northwest Africa, and Australia. Much of central Canada and eastern Asia were much colder than average, and a few other areas such as southern Africa were slightly below normal. Sea surface temperatures were above average over most areas, while parts of the eastern tropical Pacific and parts of the Southern Ocean were below average.

    Surface Temperature Departure from the 1991–2020 Average for March 2025 (°C). Red indicates warmer than average and blue indicates colder than average.

    Snow Cover

    The Northern Hemisphere snow cover extent in March was well below average, ranking seventh smallest on record. Snow cover over North America and Greenland was below average (by 170,000 square miles), and Eurasia was also below average (by 550,000 square miles). A lack of snow cover was particularly obvious over the United States and Europe.

    Sea Ice

    Global sea ice extent was the second smallest in the 47-year record at 6.60 million square miles, which was 780,000 square miles below the 1991–2020 average. Arctic sea ice extent was below average (by 340,000 square miles), ranking lowest on record and Antarctic extent was below average (by 440,000 square miles), ranking fourth lowest on record.

    Map of the Arctic (left) and Antarctic (right) sea ice extent in March 2025.Map of the Arctic (left) and Antarctic (right) sea ice extent in March 2025.Map of the Arctic (left) and Antarctic (right) sea ice extent in March 2025.Map of the Arctic (left) and Antarctic (right) sea ice extent in March 2025.

    Tropical Cyclones

    Eight named storms occurred across the globe in March, which was slightly above the long-term average of six. A record five named storms occurred in the southwestern Indian Ocean while four occurred in the Australian region (one storm traversed the two basins).


    For a more complete summary of climate conditions and events, see our March 2025 Global Climate Report or explore our Climate at a Glance Global Time Series.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Surge In Global Defense Budgets Having Significant Impact On The Global Military (UAS) Drone Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – The global unmanned aerial system (UAS) military drones market has been rising steadily over the past years and it is projected to continue substantially into the next decade at least. A recent report from one such industry insider said that the surge in global defense budgets has had a significant impact on the global market. As political tensions rise worldwide, nations are investing in cutting-edge unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to bolster their defense and security capabilities. Increased defense expenditure has allowed countries like the United States, China, and other NATO members to allocate substantial funds to advanced drone programs, enhancing surveillance, supporting combat missions, and improving autonomous drone features.  Geopolitical tensions, especially in regions like Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, are driving a significant demand for military drones. As nations seek to strengthen their surveillance, intelligence, and tactical capabilities, military drones have become integral to modern defense strategies.  Active companies in the markets this week include: Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO), Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American: UMAC), General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), and Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT).

    The report continued: “North America, with the United States leading the charge, dominates the military drone market. This leadership is driven by significant investments in advanced military technologies, a strong defense budget, and the presence of key industry players like General Atomics and Northrop Grumman. The U.S. military continues to strengthen its drone capabilities, emphasizing the development of state-of-the-art systems for a range of missions, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat operations. Moreover, the country is strategically investing in autonomous systems and artificial intelligence, ensuring its drones remain at the forefront of modern warfare and maintain a technological edge on the global stage… The U.S. military remains the largest operator of drones… These drones play a vital role in a wide range of operations, including reconnaissance, surveillance, combat, and logistics.”

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO) and SafeLane Global Enter into Multi-Year Agreement with Draganfly as the Preferred Global Provider of Landmine Mapping Drones and Aerial Survey Services – First Ukraine Landmine Aerial Survey Contract Underway Draganfly Inc. (FSE: 3U8A) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”), an industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems, today announced that it has been selected by SafeLane Global Ltd. (“SafeLane”) as its preferred unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and aerial survey provider.

    SafeLane, a world-renowned specialist in explosive threat mitigation, is one of only two private organizations licensed by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense to conduct landmine and explosive ordnance clearance operations in Ukraine. With over 30 years of experience across more than 60 countries, SafeLane supports governments, humanitarian organizations, and commercial clients in the clearance and disposal of landmines, unexploded ordnance (UXO), and explosive remnants of war (ERW), both on land and underwater.

    Under the agreement, Draganfly will provide advanced drone solutions, including UAVs, specialized sensors, and data analysis services, to support SafeLane’s global mine action initiatives. The collaboration aims to enhance the speed, accuracy, and safety of explosive threat detection and removal operations in high-risk environments.

    “We are honored to be selected as SafeLane’s UAS partner,” said Cameron Chell, President and CEO of Draganfly. “This partnership represents a significant opportunity to leverage Draganfly’s technology to support critical humanitarian and defense efforts. Together, we will work to deliver scalable, innovative solutions for global landmine action.”

    The companies will co-develop joint intellectual property and standard operating procedures tailored for aerial mine detection and clearance. SafeLane will lead proposal submissions and operational deployment, while Draganfly will provide technology, mission planning, piloting, and survey analysis.

    According to the Landmine Monitor 2023, more than 60 million landmines remain buried across over 60 countries, posing a persistent threat to civilians, especially children, who account for nearly half of the casualties. Ukraine is currently one of the most mine-contaminated countries in the world.

    “Draganfly’s drone-based technology will significantly increase the safety and efficiency of our operations,” said Asa Gilbert, Director of Business Development at SafeLane. “This partnership is a critical step in helping communities recover from the legacy of conflict.”

    The collaboration further positions Draganfly as a key player in the defense and humanitarian sectors, supporting efforts to create safer environments in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.  CONTINUED Read this full press release and more news for Draganfly at:  https://draganfly.com/news/

    Other recent developments in the defense/military industries of note include:

    Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American: UMAC), a drone and drone components manufacturer, recently announced it filed its Form 10-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and provided the following letter to its shareholders from CEO Allan Evans.  Dear Shareholders,  This shareholder letter follows the completion of our fiscal year 2024. This is our first year being public. It has been an excellent fourth quarter and an incredible year. We continue to see great interest in the company and receive questions from shareholders. We would like to take this opportunity to provide context and deeper insights into our operations and what these represent for Unusual Machines’ future.

    Unusual Machines revenue for the fourth quarter revenue was over $2.0 million which represents a sequentially quarter over quarter increase of approximately 31%. This is our best revenue quarter of all time (again) and was done while improving gross margins slightly to 28%. With the launch of our Blue Framework products, approximately 15% of our Q4 revenue was from enterprise sales. Our total revenue of $5.65M for FY2024 exceeded our target of $5M for 2024 by 13%. This growth was achieved without customer concentration as no single customer represented more than 5% of our total revenue for 2024.

    Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), a technology company specializing in defense, national security, and global markets, recently announced the groundbreaking of Kratos’ Hypersonic System Indiana Payload Integration Facility (IPIF) in Crane, Indiana. This state-of-the-art 68,000-square-foot office, laboratory, integration and test complex will support critical hypersonic vehicle and payload activities and systems for the Multi-Service Advanced Capabilities Hypersonic Testbed (MACH-TB) program. The project demonstrates Kratos’ commitment to advancing hypersonic system payload integration and test capabilities and expanding crucial infrastructure needed to accelerate the time to Mach 5+ flight testing.

    Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos, said: “The Kratos Hypersonic System Indiana Payload Integration Facility represents a strategic investment in our Nation’s hypersonic infrastructure, workforce and capabilities. Kratos is committed to achieving, if not exceeding, the MACH-TB program’s primary goals, which include, increasing the cadence of flight tests and to mature and qualify advanced hypersonic technologies. Kratos’ IPIF will provide a vital commercial launch vehicle environmental test and assembly capability to supplement existing DoD and NASA facilities.”

    Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) recently announced that it will webcast live its first quarter 2025 earnings results conference call (listen-only mode) on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 11 a.m. ET.  James Taiclet, chairman, president and CEO; Jay Malave, chief financial officer; and Maria Ricciardone, vice president, Treasurer and Investor Relations, will discuss first quarter 2025 results, provide updates on key topics and answer questions.  First quarter 2025 results will be published prior to the market opening on April 22.

    The live webcast will be available at www.lockheedmartin.com/investor and the accompanying presentation slides and relevant financial charts will also be available on the same website prior to market open.

    An on-demand replay of the webcast will be available through Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at www.lockheedmartin.com/investor, and a podcast will be available here.

    General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), recently announced that it has expanded its technology partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) through a new Strategic Collaboration Agreement to drive digital modernization, deliver efficiencies and advance government missions.

    GDIT and AWS will collaborate to develop cutting-edge cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, cloud migration and modernization solutions to accelerate digital transformation for defense, intelligence and civilian agencies. Government agencies will benefit from AWS’s cloud computing environment, widely considered to be one of the most secure available today, to support their unique missions. GDIT will leverage its research and development labs to collaborate with AWS on emerging technologies such as quantum, edge computing and high-performance computing.

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

    Follow us on Facebook to receive the latest news updates: https://www.facebook.com/financialnewsmedia

    Follow us on Twitter for real time Market News: https://twitter.com/FNMgroup

    Follow us on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/financialnewsmedia/

    DISCLAIMER:  FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels.  FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein.  FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.  FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities.  The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material.  All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks.  All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release.  FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers.  Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks.  For current services performed FNM was compensated twenty five hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by Draganfly Inc. by a non-affiliated third party.  FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

    Contact Information:

    Media Contact email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com – +1(561)325-8757 

    SOURCE: FN Media Group, LLC.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Global: Foreign interference threats in Canada’s federal election are both old and new

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Chris Tenove, Assistant director, Centre for the Study of Democratic Institutions, University of British Columbia

    Fears of foreign interference loom over the Canadian election. The federal inquiry on foreign interference revealed that entities aligned with India and China interfered in recent elections, albeit without major impact on the results, and concluded that disinformation campaigns pose the greatest threat to Canada’s long-term democratic health.

    Now, with a Canada-bashing American president adding to those foreign interference risks, Canada’s election integrity seems to be in an unprecedented state of fragility.

    However, foreign interference has a longstanding history in Canadian elections. Understanding what is and is not new about current efforts may help to turn down the heat and focus more on how Canadians can make their own decisions this election.




    Read more:
    Thanks to social media platforms, election interference is more insidious and pervasive than ever


    Covert techniques

    For starters, what is foreign interference?

    The commission, following established practice, defined it as an action whereby “states pursue their global interests using covert, corrupt, illegal or coercive techniques.” That means public comments on our election by foreign politicians is not interference, as Canadian government officials have made clear.

    While we largely agree with the commission’s definition, we argue that the interfering entity isn’t necessarily a state. Foreign corporations, crime syndicates and terrorist networks can also interfere in our elections.

    Elon Musk is a tricky case. He is a Canadian citizen, but his current role with the United States government may mean that he can be considered a “foreign entity” according to Canada’s election law, as legal scholar Eve Gaumond has pointed out.

    U.S. interference isn’t new

    History reveals a long menu of options for foreign interference, ranging from bribery to espionage and polling assistance.

    In the 1872 election campaign, Sir Hugh Allan, a Montréal shipping and railroad magnate, successfully used more than $350,000 of mostly U.S. funds to pressure John A. Macdonald and other Conservative party members to award Allan and his allies the contract to build the Canadian Pacific Railway. This was bribery to advance corporate aims.

    After these machinations became public in 1873, Macdonald eventually resigned over what became known as the Pacific Scandal, and Allan lost the Canadian Pacific Railway contract. Today his actions would be a violation of campaign finance laws, which prohibit foreign funding of electioneering. But until the late 19th century, such donations weren’t uncommon.

    Foreign policy has shaped Canadian elections before, even if the last Canadian election that focused almost primarily on tariffs with the U.S. was in 1911. But concerns about relations with other countries are different from foreign interference.

    To date, the most significant foreign interference came in Canada’s 1962 and 1963 elections. Again, Americans were behind it. The John F. Kennedy administration was frustrated by positions taken by Prime Minister John Diefenbaker.

    The Conservative government continued to trade with Cuba despite American sanctions, had made a deal to sell grain to the People’s Republic of China, and — most importantly — had not agreed to a U.S. proposal to station air defence missiles with nuclear warheads on Canadian soil.

    Rather than bribery, the U.S. provided Lester B. Pearson’s Liberal Party with assistance from pollster Lou Harris. Harris was a key figure both in Kennedy’s 1960 election win and in the nascent use of computer-assisted analysis of opinion polls to target specific demographic groups.

    The Kennedy administration went further in 1963 and issued a press release in the midst of the election, calling Diefenbaker a liar and disputing his positions on air defence. Neither of these actions was illegal at the time, though the secret provision of in-kind assistance to the 1962 Liberal campaign would now run afoul of the prohibition on foreign support for electioneering.

    Soviet, American interference

    The Soviets too were interested in Canadian politics, with some Canadians allegedly recruited as spies, according to Igor Gouzenko, a cipher clerk based at the Soviet embassy in Ottawa who defected to Canada in 1945.

    The revelations even led to the arrest of one member of Parliament, Fred Rose.

    In fact, American and Russian interference in general elections around the world was common in the 20th century. Political scientist Dov Levin has estimated that from 1946 to 2000, the U.S. and Soviet Union (Russia after 1991) intervened in 11.3 per cent of all global national elections.

    New digital techniques

    All these techniques can be pursued today, but there are at least three new forms of interference.

    First, foreign interference can include threats made against party leaders or other candidates. As in the past, these can come through clandestine networks or hired thugs. But today, an insult or false accusation from Trump, Musk or others with huge, hostile followings can expose politicians and others to a blizzard of online threats and abuse.

    Second, foreign interference can occur by providing money for electioneering. Rather than a single bundled sum offered to John A. Macdonald, funds are more likely to come through online donations, possibly including crypto-currency transfers that are difficult to monitor.

    For instance, in Romania’s 2024 election, the far-right, Russia-supporting candidate Calin Georgescu was accused of receiving hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal campaign support. In late March, a crypto-currency businessman was arrested and accused of using TikTok’s “gifts” feature to provide US$879,000 to induce 265 people to vote for Georgescu.

    Such acts would be illegal in Canada. More ambiguous is whether social media platforms use their algorithms to amplify some views and diminish others.

    There is no doubt that X, Facebook and TikTok platforms have the capability to do this. While government officials said such actions would be investigated, it is less clear whether they could be detected or what the government would do in response.

    Finally, foreign interference can occur by trying to influence Canadians’ voting choices by threatening illegal or coercive actions or promoting misinformation.

    Trump has already violated trade agreements with Canada and threatened future illegal activities, even going as far as to threaten annexation. Any comments that link these threats to voting outcomes — for example, if Trump said something like “if Canadians choose Carney, they will see tariffs like they have never seen before” — would constitute interference.




    Read more:
    Forget booing the anthem, Canada must employ strategic communications to fight Trump’s lies


    What can be done?

    There are systems in place to detect foreign interference.

    Canadian intelligence agencies and law enforcement are monitoring for foreign interference, and a panel of five senior bureaucrats makes non-partisan decisions about whether to alert the public.

    Global Affairs Canada’s Rapid Response Mechanism is monitoring the online information environment for foreign interference. Elections Canada is also monitoring for violations of election law.

    Members of the public can help. Anyone can share cases of manipulated images and other misleading information related to the election with the Digital Threats Tipline, created by the Canadian Digital Media Research Network. (Our Centre for the Study of Democratic Institutions at the University of British Columbia is a member of this McGill University-based network.)

    These monitoring efforts will help us keep an eye on social media platforms. The companies have agreed to act on interference in the election, but experts are skeptical of their commitment.

    If platforms are pipelines of election interference, they should be more tightly regulated. For instance, the European Union’s Digital Services Act has enabled investigations and potential accountability measures in response to interference in Romania’s election.

    The most important thing Canadians can do is vote in this election based on their own well-informed priorities, worries and aspirations.

    While remaining alert to foreign interference, Canadians can perhaps take some comfort in the resilience of our democratic institutions in the face of a long history of attempts to undermine elections.

    Chris Tenove receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council to research global policies to address online interference in elections.

    Heidi J. S. Tworek receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and the Canada Research Chair programe. She is a senior fellow with the Centre for International Governance Innovation and testified before the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in October 2024.

    ref. Foreign interference threats in Canada’s federal election are both old and new – https://theconversation.com/foreign-interference-threats-in-canadas-federal-election-are-both-old-and-new-253600

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indianapolis Man Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FORT WAYNE – Yesterday, Jorge Luis Jaramillo, 20 years old, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly Brady after pleading guilty to one count of distributing methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Jaramillo was sentenced to 60 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, in May 2023, Jaramillo knowingly distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.  At the time of the drug delivery, Jaramillo was 18 years old, and he transported almost two kilograms of methamphetamine from Indianapolis for distribution in Fort Wayne, Indiana. 

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Indiana State Police; the Fort Wayne Police Department; the Allen County Sheriff’s Department; and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Global: Schools are harnessing artificial intelligence to revolutionize courses in hospitality management

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Betsy Pudliner, PhD, Associate Professor of Hospitality and Technology Innovation, University of Wisconsin-Stout

    Generative AI helps create dynamic simulations that provide students with hands-on, project-based learning experiences. Matt Bird/Getty Images

    Uncommon Courses is an occasional series from The Conversation U.S. highlighting unconventional approaches to teaching.

    Title of course:

    Hospitality Employee Relations

    What prompted the idea for the course?

    The idea came from my frustration with traditional methods used to teach hospitality management. As a professor and industry professional, I saw the need to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world skills.

    Internships and fieldwork are valuable. But they may not be available to students, especially those in online or hybrid programs. I wanted to offer students an opportunity to gain hands-on learning experiences.

    Using Articulate’s Rise 360 – an e-learning development platform – I created dynamic simulations based on stories from my own experiences, as well as from other industry professionals.

    For example, an interactive lost wallet scenario I created with my instructional design team involves a person who realizes they’ve left their wallet behind after visiting a nursing home. It includes decision points that enhance critical thinking and decision-making through the use of concept art.

    AI-driven prompts aid in transforming industry experiences into online course content. The Pinnacle Golf Resort, a made-up resort I created using Rise 360, engages students with dynamic cause-and-effect decision trees with realistic managerial challenges.

    What does the course explore?

    Students engage with real-world challenges, such as:

    • Managing guest complaints

    • Handling staffing issues

    • Dealing with financial challenges

    • Implementing operational solutions

    • Moral and ethical issues and conflict resolution

    Students are tasked with making decisions that affect the outcome of each scenario, with immediate feedback on their choices. That provides personalized learning experiences tailored to their progress.

    The course focuses on connecting theory to practice, such as application of leadership styles − autocratic, democratic or different types of power − to solve problems and improve guest satisfaction.

    One scene in the Pinnacle Golf Resort simulation involves a restaurant manager handling a disruptive guest during a high-profile event. I realized I needed a decision-rating scale to assess the student’s choices. Generative AI refined decision options and aided in the construction of that decision-rating scale.

    This ensures that choices − such as offering a goodwill gesture or removal of the guest − have realistic consequences. Therefore, the total number of points affixed would determine whether the restaurant manager would be promoted or need more training.

    Why is this course relevant now?

    As the hospitality industry becomes more competitive and complex − with higher turnover rates and shifting workforce expectations − effective decision-making and problem-solving skills become crucial in managing guest experiences.

    Traditional internships and fieldwork are valuable.

    But online and hybrid programs may struggle to provide these opportunities. As hospitality programs shift to online and hybrid formats, the demand for scalable, hands-on learning tools has increased.

    What’s a critical lesson from the course?

    A key lesson is the importance of adaptive decision-making and understanding the consequences of one’s actions. Through simulations created with the help of generative AI, students see firsthand how their decisions impact multiple areas of a hospitality business.

    These scenarios allow students to experience real-world challenges. And this helps them practice making decisions in a dynamic environment.

    By participating in the simulations, students learn that there is no one-size-fits-all approach in hospitality management. They must adapt their leadership style based on the situation and the individuals involved.

    What materials does the course feature?

    The course creates interactive simulations using Articulate 360 and Rise 360.

    These simulations replicate real-world hospitality situations such as managing guest complaints or financial decision-making.

    The class uses stories drawn from the instructor’s own industry experience. This exposes students to the complexities of hospitality management.

    Feedback is generated based on the student’s decisions in the simulations, developed with the help of ChatGPT. This fosters self-reflection and promoting continual improvement in their leadership abilities.

    What will the course prepare students to do?

    Upon completion, students will be able to:

    • Navigate complex guest relations and manage complaints in real time.

    • Make informed operational decisions while balancing guest satisfaction, employee performance and financial considerations.

    • Apply various leadership styles to motivate teams, resolve conflicts and ensure high service standards.

    • Assess their leadership style and adapt it to different situations in hospitality management.

    Betsy A. Pudliner is affiliated with ICHRIE-International Council of Hospitality, Restaurant and Institutional Educators.

    ref. Schools are harnessing artificial intelligence to revolutionize courses in hospitality management – https://theconversation.com/schools-are-harnessing-artificial-intelligence-to-revolutionize-courses-in-hospitality-management-249423

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. crude oil exports reached a new record in 2024

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    April 10, 2025


    U.S. crude oil exports in 2024 surpassed the previous record set in 2023, exceeding an annual average of 4.1 million barrels per day (b/d). Despite this new record, crude oil export year-over-year growth slowed to 1% in 2024, compared with 14% in 2023 and 21% in 2022.

    Crude oil production in the U.S. Lower 48 (L48) states, which does not include Alaska or offshore production, reached a record in November 2024, allowing for a greater supply of crude oil to export. Increased production efficiency counteracted a decrease in the number of active oil rigs, resulting in L48 production increasing 3% last year. Unlike in the L48 states, production in Alaska and offshore in the Gulf of America decreased last year because of natural declines in both areas and because of disruptions to crude oil production resulting from above-average hurricane activity in 2024 in the Gulf.

    Europe and the Asia and Oceania region remained the top regional destinations for U.S. crude oil exports. U.S. crude oil exports to Europe have grown significantly in recent years, particularly after Europe banned seaborne crude oil imports from Russia in late 2022. The volume of U.S. crude oil exports to Europe also increased following S&P Global’s 2023 decision to include West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil in European crude oil benchmark Dated Brent.


    For a second consecutive year, the Netherlands, home to a large crude oil storage and trading hub in Rotterdam, received more U.S. crude oil exports than any other country in 2024, averaging 825,000 b/d (32% growth from 2023). Overall, crude oil exports to Europe increased by 6% to 1.93 million b/d in 2024, with decreases in exports to Spain, France, and Italy outweighed by increases to Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands.

    Despite China receiving the second-most U.S. crude oil in 2023, exports to China dropped by 53% in 2024 to 217,000 b/d. A net decline in transportation fuel demand in China, which led to a decrease in overall Chinese demand for imported crude oil, and increased crude oil imports from Malaysia and Russia decreased Chinese demand for U.S. crude oil. U.S. exports to Asia overall decreased by 131,000 b/d to 1.58 million b/d as increased exports to South Korea, Singapore, and India were offset by the decrease in exports to China.


    U.S. crude oil exports to India increased 32% in 2024, bouncing back from relative lows in 2023. In 2023, India increased imports of relatively cheap crude oil from Russia, following sanctions that limited the price Russia could charge for crude oil exported using the shipping and insurance services of sanctioning countries. India’s oil consumption growth overtook China’s in 2024, increasing Indian demand for imported crude oil. However, despite this rising demand, Indian imports of crude oil from Russia fell in 2024 as the price discount on oil from Russia narrowed. With the decrease in Russian imports, U.S. crude oil helped fill in the gap, resulting in a nearly 55,000-b/d increase in U.S. crude oil exports to India in 2024.

    Principal contributor: Anne Miranda

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: TransUnion’s OneTru™ Accelerates Product Innovation, Delivering Exceptional Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — One year ago, TransUnion (NYSE: TRU) introduced its transformative OneTru™ solution enablement platform for managing, governing, analyzing and delivering data, identity and insights. Today, OneTru delivers on its promises, accelerating and expanding the pace and breadth of the company’s innovation.

    Over the course of 2024 and early 2025, OneTru capabilities have powered several of TransUnion’s B2B product lines:

    • TransUnion’s alternative lending bureau is now enabled by OneTru, leading to new and enhanced solutions, including TruVision credit risk products that enrich lenders’ existing underwriting scores.
    • Identity capabilities for the TruAudience line of products have been unified on OneTru, enabling more persistent views of identity whether planning, executing or measuring marketing efforts.
    • TruValidate fraud solutions powered by the platform have improved fraud capture rates and decreased manual reviews and false positives.

    OneTru is currently operational in the U.S. and India, and TransUnion plans to expand the platform soon to Canada, the Philippines and the U.K.

    “We continue to build on OneTru’s success by expanding its underlying capabilities, including identity attributes, enhanced matching, decisioning and AI tools to improve efficiency,” said Chris Cartwright, President and CEO, TransUnion. “Our progress enhances the performance of our seven global product lines, delivering better overall quality and accelerating time-to-insights for our customers.”

    Products Powered by OneTru Deliver Better Customer Results

    In just one year, products powered by the OneTru platform have delivered better results for customers:

    • A major financial institution increased their fraud capture rates by 162% using TruValidate fraud solutions.
    • A FinTech leveraged the TruIQ Analytics Studio to build lending models in near real-time, reducing development time from 10 hours to less than one hour.
    • A U.S. credit card issuer cut its offer timeline from 45 to 21 days using TruIQ Data Enrichment.
    • A leading retailer enhanced its marketing data using TruAudience Identity Enrichment to capture insights from over 100 million daily interactions and maintain a fresh view of over 90 million active customers.

    “Many customer benefits from OneTru stem from our Customer Zero approach, where we internally test new and exciting capabilities before releasing them through our product lines,” said Venkat Achanta, Chief Technology, Data & Analytics Officer at TransUnion. “For instance, our AI capabilities are expanding to enable autonomous decision-making, adaptive learning and proactive execution. We expect that these advancements will support use cases such as audience segmentation, predictive scoring and identity resolution, leading to greater innovation for both the company and our customers.”

    To secure access to an upcoming TransUnion roundtable discussion with Forrester about the future uses of AI and other technology trends, please click here. More information about TransUnion’s solution lines can be found here.

    About TransUnion (NYSE: TRU)

    TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries. We make trust possible by ensuring each person is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this with a Tru™ picture of each person: an actionable view of consumers, stewarded with care. Through our acquisitions and technology investments we have developed innovative solutions that extend beyond our strong foundation in core credit into areas such as marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for millions of people around the world.

    http://www.transunion.com/business

    Contact Dave Blumberg
    TransUnion
    Telephone 312-972-6646
    E-mail david.blumberg@transunion.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Byrna Technologies Fiscal First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ANDOVER, Mass., April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Byrna Technologies Inc. (“Byrna” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BYRN), a personal defense technology company specializing in the development, manufacture, and sale of innovative less-lethal personal security solutions, today reported select financial results for its fiscal first quarter (“Q1 2025”) ended February 28, 2025.

    Fiscal First Quarter 2025 and Recent Operational Highlights

    • Launched Byrna’s first store-within-a-store concept at Sportsman’s Warehouse flagship location in Saratoga Springs, Utah, with 12 additional locations expected to open by early May.
    • Opened three company-owned retail stores in high-foot-traffic areas in the Greater Nashville Area, Scottsdale, Arizona, and Salem, New Hampshire, generating between $1,000 and $1,700 in daily sales per store in their first full month of operation. A fourth store in Fort Wayne, Indiana is opening today.
    • Increased launcher production capacity by 33% to 24,000 launchers per month and began producing payload ammo rounds at its new Fort Wayne ammo facility, capable of producing 8 million rounds per year.
    • Strengthened domestic sourcing, achieving 92% U.S.-made components for Byrna’s flagship model, the Byrna SD, as part of Byrna’s ongoing ‘Made in America’ initiative.
    • Partnered with celebrity influencers Charlie Kirk, Megyn Kelly, Lara Trump, and Donald Trump Jr. to amplify brand awareness and promote the normalization of less-lethal solutions, while continuing to optimize marketing spend for maximum impact.

    Fiscal First Quarter 2025 Financial Results
    Results compare Q1 2025 to the 2024 fiscal first quarter ended February 29, 2024 unless otherwise indicated.

    Net revenue for Q1 2025 grew 57% year-over-year to $26.2 million from $16.7 million in the fiscal first quarter of 2024 (“Q1 2024”). The strong year-over-year growth was primarily attributable to continuing sales momentum, channel expansion, and broader brand adoption.

    Gross profit for Q1 2025 increased to $15.9 million (61% of net revenue) from $9.6 million (58% of net revenue) in Q1 2024. The increase in gross profit was driven by a reduction in component costs driven by a mid-2024 initiative focused on “design for manufacturability” and the economies of scale resulting from increased production volumes.

    Operating expenses for Q1 2025 were $14.2 million, compared to $9.8 million for Q1 2024. The increase was primarily due to higher variable selling expenses, payroll costs, and increased discretionary marketing spend.

    Net income for Q1 2025 was $1.7 million, a significant improvement from $17,000 for Q1 2024. This increase was driven by an overall increase in product sales.

    Adjusted EBITDA1, a non-GAAP metric reconciled below, for Q1 2025 totaled $2.8 million, compared to $1.2 million in Q1 2024.

    Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities at February 28, 2025 totaled $19.3 million compared to $25.7 million at November 30, 2024. The decrease reflects planned increases in inventory ahead of the Compact Launcher release and normal seasonal working capital movements. Inventory at February 28, 2025 totaled $23.2 million compared to $20.0 million at November 30, 2024. The Company has no current or long-term debt.

    Management Commentary
    Byrna CEO Bryan Ganz stated: “We delivered a strong start to the fiscal year with 57% revenue growth and our second-highest quarter ever, only 6% below our record $28 million Q4, despite Q1 traditionally being our slowest seasonal period. The strong results reflect continuing sales momentum, increasing adoption of less-lethal self-defense options, and rising brand visibility. As expected, January sales softened due to post-holiday consumer fatigue and waning consumer confidence; however, we saw daily sales improve month-over-month in both February and March. Looking ahead, we believe our performance will continue to be supported by Byrna’s expanding retail footprint, growing Amazon presence, and sustained awareness-building efforts – all of which lay the groundwork for the upcoming Compact Launcher release.

    “We launched our first store-within-a-store at Sportsman’s flagship store in Saratoga Springs, Utah in March, and the partnership is off to a strong start. Byrna products are expected to be available in 12 additional store-within-a-store locations by early May as part of our 13-store pilot program. Each location will be supported by a Byrna representative during the rollout period to help ensure the strongest possible launch. Sportsman’s has demonstrated a strong commitment to the partnership, and we are jointly funding the buildout, with Byrna covering half of the roughly $15,000 cost per installation. Depending on store layout, these store-within-a-store locations will either include a Byrna-branded firing range – converted from a former archery bay – or a self-contained shooting lane with dedicated display cases and shelf space. Separately, Sportsman’s plans to add Byrna point-of-sale displays at an additional 41 locations, which will also include a Byrna shooting experience.

    “Assuming that these stores perform similarly to Byrna’s retail stores, Sportsman’s intends to continue opening the Byrna store-within-a-store installations in additional stores. Based on the early performance of the initial stores, we could expand to approximately 30 store-within-a-store locations by the end of August, with a goal of reaching 50 by year-end and potentially adding another 50 in 2026.

    “At the same time, we opened three company-owned stores in Q1. While our current emphasis is on capital-efficient retail expansion through partnerships like Sportsman’s, we remain excited about the long-term potential of Byrna-branded stores, particularly in regions not served by our retail partners. Additionally, these stores act as flagship stores for Byrna, where we can run training programs, host celebrities, and bring in local groups. Early results for the new stores have exceeded expectations, with daily sales averaging between $1,000 and $1,700 per store. These locations have proven especially effective at reaching first-time Byrna customers, and we’re seeing strong walk-in traffic and local engagement. As we evaluate our broader retail strategy, these stores continue to provide valuable insights into consumer behavior and brand building in high-foot-traffic areas.

    “On the operations front, we increased monthly launcher production capacity to 24,000 units across four active production lines. In the first quarter, we built inventory across our SD and LE platforms in preparation for the launch of the Compact Launcher. While the ultimate launcher mix remains to be seen, our Fort Wayne factory has the flexibility to shift production between CL, SD, and LE models based on real-time demand.

    “In March, we also began producing payload rounds at our new ammunition manufacturing facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana, which has the capacity to produce up to 8 million rounds annually. Several machines are already operational, with additional machines coming online over the next few months to support future volume growth. We also have four additional dosing and welding machines on order as we expect to see significant increases in ammo demand with the release of the Compact Launcher, particularly as the CL uses a .61 caliber round which will only be available from Byrna for the foreseeable future.

    “As part of our commitment to domestic manufacturing, we’ve made significant progress with our ‘Made in America’ initiative. Today, 92% of the components used in the manufacture of our flagship SD launcher are sourced from U.S. suppliers, which is up from just 34% a few months ago. We remain on track to exceed 90% domestic sourcing for all products by the end of 2025, a milestone that enhances our supply chain reliability, reduces tariff risk, and supports our brand story.

    “We continued to refine our roster of celebrity and influencer partners, recently adding personalities such as Megyn Kelly, Charlie Kirk, Lara Trump, and Donald Trump Jr. to our existing lineup. These partnerships support our strategy to normalize the category and reach new audiences across demographic segments.

    “In financial matters, we expect our effective tax rate to increase to approximately 23% in 2025 as we transition into full taxpayer status. Our balance sheet remains strong, and while we expect some working capital investment in Q2 as inventory builds ahead of the CL launch, we will very quickly start turning the inventory into cash once the launcher is released. Accordingly, we anticipate continued cash generation in the second half of the year.

    “With momentum across our channels, scalable partnerships in place, and a highly anticipated new product on the horizon, we remain confident in our ability to continue to execute through 2025 and beyond.”

    Conference Call
    The Company’s management will host a conference call today, April 10, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. Eastern time (6:00 a.m. Pacific time) to discuss these results, followed by a question-and-answer period.

    Toll-Free Dial-In: 877-709-8150
    International Dial-In: +1 201-689-8354
    Confirmation: 13752594

    Please call the conference telephone number 5-10 minutes prior to the start time of the conference call. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact Gateway Group at 949-574-3860.

    The conference call will be broadcast live and available for replay here and via the Investor Relations section of Byrna’s website.

    About Byrna Technologies Inc.
    Byrna is a technology company specializing in the development, manufacture, and sale of innovative less-lethal personal security solutions. For more information on the Company, please visit the corporate website here or the Company’s investor relations site here. The Company is the manufacturer of the Byrna® SD personal security device, a state-of-the-art handheld CO2 powered launcher designed to provide a less-lethal alternative to a firearm for the consumer, private security, and law enforcement markets. To purchase Byrna products, visit the Company’s e-commerce store.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the securities laws. All statements contained in this news release, other than statements of current and historical fact, are forward-looking. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans,” “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” and “believes” and statements that certain actions, events or results “may,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “might,” “occur,” or “be achieved,” or “will be taken.” Forward-looking statements include descriptions of currently occurring matters which may continue in the future. Forward-looking statements in this news release include but are not limited to our statements related to our expected sales during 2025, our ability to scale production lines, Byrna’s ability to remain self-sustaining, profitable and cash flow positive, Byrna’s ability to open new retail locations and realize revenue growth from them, the expected scale, timing and benefits of Byrna’s store-within-a-store partnership with Sportsman’s Warehouse, the benefits and continued success of Byrna’s celebrity endorser strategy, Byrna’s ability to re-shore production and cease purchasing parts from China on the anticipated timeline, the expected benefits of re-shoring production, the anticipated growth and potential size of the U.S. less-lethal market, and Byrna’s positioning for sustained growth in 2025 and 2026. Forward-looking statements are not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Forward-looking statements are based on, among other things, opinions, assumptions, estimates, and analyses that, while considered reasonable by the Company at the date the forward-looking information is provided, inherently are subject to significant risks, uncertainties, contingencies, and other factors that may cause actual results and events to be materially different from those expressed or implied.

    Any number of risk factors could affect our actual results and cause them to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements in this news release, including, but not limited to, disappointing market responses to current or future products or services; prolonged, new, or exacerbated disruption of our supply chain; the further or prolonged disruption of new product development; production or distribution disruption or delays in entry or penetration of sales channels due to inventory constraints, competitive factors, increased transportation costs or interruptions, including due to weather, flooding or fires; prototype, parts and material shortages, particularly of parts sourced from limited or sole source providers; determinations by third party controlled distribution channels, including Amazon, not to carry or reduce inventory of the Company’s products; determinations by advertisers or social media platforms, or legislation that prevents or limits marketing of some or all Byrna products; the loss of marketing partners; increases in marketing expenditure may not yield expected revenue increases; potential cancellations of existing or future orders including as a result of any fulfillment delays, introduction of competing products, negative publicity, or other factors; product design or manufacturing defects or recalls; litigation, enforcement proceedings or other regulatory or legal developments; changes in consumer or political sentiment affecting product demand; regulatory factors including the impact of commerce and trade laws and regulations; and future restrictions on the Company’s cash resources, increased costs and other events that could potentially reduce demand for the Company’s products or result in order cancellations. The order in which these factors appear should not be construed to indicate their relative importance or priority. We caution that these factors may not be exhaustive; accordingly, any forward-looking statements contained herein should not be relied upon as a prediction of actual results. Investors should carefully consider these and other relevant factors, including those risk factors in Part I, Item 1A, (“Risk Factors”) in the Company’s most recent Form 10-K and Part II, Item 1A (“Risk Factors”) in the Company’s most recent Form 10-Q, should understand it is impossible to predict or identify all such factors or risks, should not consider the foregoing list, or the risks identified in the Company’s SEC filings, to be a complete discussion of all potential risks or uncertainties, and should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.

    Investor Contact:
    Tom Colton and Alec Wilson
    Gateway Group, Inc.
    949-574-3860
    BYRN@gateway-grp.com

    -Financial Tables to Follow-

             
    BYRNA TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
    (Amounts in thousands except share and per share data)
    (Unaudited)
             
        For the Three Months Ended
        February 28
          2025       2024  
    Net revenue   $ 26,190     $ 16,654  
    Cost of goods sold     10,266       7,015  
    Gross profit     15,924       9,639  
    Operating expenses     14,228       9,803  
    INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS     1,696       (164 )
    OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)        
    Foreign currency transaction loss     (80 )     (58 )
    Interest income     186       280  
    Loss from joint venture           (42 )
    Other income (expense)           1  
    INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES     1,802       17  
    Income tax expense     (140 )      
    NET INCOME (LOSS)   $ 1,662     $ 17  
             
    Foreign currency translation adjustment for the period     (130 )     (115 )
    Unrealized gain on marketable securities     60        
    COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)   $ 1,592     $ (98 )
             
    Basic net income (loss) per share   $ 0.07     $ 0.00  
    Diluted net income (loss) per share   $ 0.07     $ 0.00  
             
    Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding – basic     22,587,099       22,035,249  
    Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding – diluted     24,098,635       22,838,827  
             
             
    BYRNA TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)
             
        February 28   November 30,
          2025       2024  
        Unaudited    
    ASSETS        
    CURRENT ASSETS        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 7,669     $ 16,829  
    Marketable Securities     11,620       8,904  
    Accounts receivable, net     2,900       2,630  
    Inventory, net     23,182       19,972  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     3,441       2,623  
    Total current assets     48,812       50,958  
    LONG TERM ASSETS        
    Deposits for equipment     3,669       2,665  
    Right-of-use-asset, net     2,218       2,452  
    Property and equipment, net     4,651       3,408  
    Intangible assets, net     3,273       3,337  
    Goodwill     2,258       2,258  
    Deferred tax asset     5,468       5,837  
    Other assets     689       1,007  
    TOTAL ASSETS   $ 71,038     $ 71,922  
             
    LIABILITIES        
    CURRENT LIABILITIES        
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   $ 11,183     $ 13,108  
    Operating lease liabilities, current     572       539  
    Deferred revenue, current     482       1,791  
    Total current liabilities     12,237       15,438  
    LONG TERM LIABILITIES        
    Deferred revenue, non-current     11       17  
    Operating lease liabilities, non-current     1,963       2,098  
    Total liabilities     14,211       17,553  
             
             
    STOCKHOLDERSEQUITY        
    Preferred stock            
    Common stock     25       25  
    Additional paid-in capital     133,895       133,029  
    Treasury stock     (21,253 )     (21,253 )
    Accumulated deficit     (55,121 )     (56,783 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (719 )     (649 )
             
    Total Stockholders’ Equity     56,827       54,369  
             
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY   $ 71,038     $ 71,922  
             

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In addition to providing financial measurements based on generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP), we provide an additional financial metric that is not prepared in accordance with GAAP (non-GAAP) with presenting non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA. Management uses this non-GAAP financial measure, in addition to GAAP financial measures, to understand and compare operating results across accounting periods, for financial and operational decision making, for planning and forecasting purposes and to evaluate our financial performance. We believe that this non-GAAP financial measure helps us to identify underlying trends in our business that could otherwise be masked by the effect of certain expenses that we exclude in the calculations of the non-GAAP financial measure.

    Accordingly, we believe that this non-GAAP financial measure reflects our ongoing business in a manner that allows for meaningful comparisons and analysis of trends in the business and provides useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating our operating results, enhancing the overall understanding of our past performance and future prospects.

    This non-GAAP financial measure does not replace the presentation of our GAAP financial results and should only be used as a supplement to, not as a substitute for, our financial results presented in accordance with GAAP. There are limitations in the use of non-GAAP measures, because they do not include all the expenses that must be included under GAAP and because they involve the exercise of judgment concerning exclusions of items from the comparable non-GAAP financial measure. In addition, other companies may use other non-GAAP measures to evaluate their performance, or may calculate non-GAAP measures differently, all of which could reduce the usefulness of our non-GAAP financial measure as a tool for comparison.

    Adjusted EBITDA

    Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net (loss) income as reported in our condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive (loss) income excluding the impact of (I) depreciation and amortization; (ii) income tax provision (benefit); (iii) interest income (expense); (iv) stock-based compensation expense, (v) impairment loss, and (vi) one time, non-recurring other expenses or income. Our Adjusted EBITDA measure eliminates potential differences in performance caused by variations in capital structures (affecting finance costs), tax positions, the cost and age of tangible assets (affecting relative depreciation expense) and the extent to which intangible assets are identifiable (affecting relative amortization expense). We also exclude certain one-time and non-cash costs. Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net (loss) income, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, is as follows (in thousands):

          For the Three Months Ended
          February 28
            2025       2024  
    Net Income (Loss)   $ 1,662     $ 17  
               
    Adjustments:        
      Interest income     (186 )     (280 )
      Income tax expense     140        
      Depreciation and amortization     185       338  
    Non-GAAP EBITDA   $ 1,801     $ 75  
               
    Stock-based compensation expense     840       938  
    Severance/Separation/Officer recruiting     130       163  
    Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA   $ 2,771     $ 1,176  
               

    1 See non-GAAP financial measures at the end of this press release for a reconciliation and a discussion of non-GAAP financial measures.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Banking: India and Japan offer hope amid 6% decline in global deal activity in Q1 2025, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    India and Japan offer hope amid 6% decline in global deal activity in Q1 2025, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    The global deal landscape (mergers & acquisitions (M&A), private equity and venture financing deals) declined 6% year-on-year (YoY) during the first quarter (Q1) of 2025, as economic uncertainty weighed on investor confidence. However, markets like India and Japan stood out by defying the global trend, signaling that select regions continue to attract deal-makers despite broader headwinds, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    An analysis of GlobalData’s Deals Database revealed that all the deal types under coverage registered YoY decline in volume during Q1 2025. All the regions also witnessed a fall in deal activity while the trend across different markets within the regions remained a mixed bag, with some countries experiencing decline while some others bucking the global and regional trend.

    Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “While the overall downturn is indicative of a cautious approach among the investors and corporations alike, the resilience shown by some markets offers a glimmer of hope.”

    M&A deals saw around 5% decline in volume during Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024. Similarly, private equity and venture financing deals also contracted, indicating a tightening of capital flows and a more selective investment approach. The number of private equity and venture financing deals registered a YoY decrease of around 2% and 8%, respectively, in Q1 2025.

    North America remains the largest market for deal activity, although it too has witnessed an approximate 4% decline in deal volume. The US, a key driver of global deal-making, has seen a similar trend, with around 3% drop in activity.

    Similarly, the Asia-Pacific region has experienced a contraction, with deal volume falling by around 4%. Notably, China has faced a sharp decline in M&A activity, reflecting the ongoing regulatory challenges and economic headwinds. However, India and Japan bucked the trend, showcasing an increase in deal volume.

    Europe also faced challenges, with deal volume decreasing by approximately 9%. The UK, which is the top European market, has seen a double-digit decline in deal volume. Nevertheless, markets such as Germany and France continue to exhibit resilience, albeit with modest declines.

    Middle East and Africa and South and Central America regions also experienced respective deal volume fall by 8.3% and 15.2%, respectively, during Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024.

    Bose concludes: “While the global deal landscape is facing headwinds, it is essential to recognize that pockets of growth still exist. Markets like India and Japan are defying the broader trend, indicating that strategic investments and innovation can thrive even in challenging times.”

    Note: Historic data may change in case some deals get added to previous months because of a delay in disclosure of information in the public domain.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Agence française de développement commits additional €3 million to Africa Digital Financial Inclusion Facility to boost digital financial inclusion

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    PARIS, France, April 10, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Agence française de développement (AFD) has committed an additional €3 million to the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) -managed Africa Digital Financial Inclusion Facility (ADFI) (https://apo-opa.co/4iXF6xK) to accelerate financial inclusion in Africa. 

    The increase brings AFD’s total funding to over €5 million. The resources will support the ADFI partnership in catalyzing digital financial solutions across Africa by expanding investment in scalable and replicable initiatives that enable access to credit and other financial services that support investment and entrepreneurship among underserved communities. 

    The African Development Bank and AFD co-founded ADFI in 2019 with the Gates Foundation and the Ministry of Finance of the Government of Luxembourg. France’s Ministry for the Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty, the Women’s Enterprise Finance Initiative (We-Fi), and India’s Ministry of Finance joined in 2020, 2022 and 2023 respectively.  

    AFD Group is strongly committed to accelerating the mobilization of financial and human resources to align the financial systems with the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that vulnerable populations—especially in regions most affected by climate change—can access financial tools that help them adapt and thrive.  

    “Developing digital financial services is a key pathway to reach financially excluded populations in Africa,” said Audrey Brule-Françoise, head of AFD’s Financial Systems Division. “Through our continued collaboration within ADFI, we aim to promote access to digital financial services that are tailored to diverse needs and delivered in a responsible manner. This new contribution will help scale up impactful and inclusive solutions.” 

    Mohamadou Ba, head of the African Development Bank’s Financial Intermediation and Inclusion Division, said, “Digital financial solutions are key to improving the quality of life of people in Africa and reducing the gender access to finance gap. We welcome the Agence française de développement’s renewed support of the catalytic role ADFI has been playing in accelerating greater access and usage of digital financial solutions and financial inclusion across the continent. We look forward to working together to scale our efforts to enhance the impact on greater economic empowerment, resilience, and growth across Africa.”  

    Recent data shows that nearly half the continent’s adult population does not benefit from digital financial solutions, particularly women, youth, farmers, small businesses, and rural communities. 

    ADFI works to expand digital financial solutions across Africa through strategic investments in digital infrastructure, policy and regulation, and product innovation, with a special focus on reducing gender gaps and building capacity. 

    ADFI aligns with the African Development Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy for inclusive growth and its priority to improve the quality of life for the people of Africa. It also advances the mandate of the Bank’s financial sector development department to improve access to finance for the underserved. ADFI works to scale innovative digital financial solutions under the three broad strategic pillars of infrastructure, policies, regulations, and product innovation. Capacity building and gender inclusion cut across all interventions. 

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Enhancement of ‘Material Cost’ under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 11:27AM by PIB Delhi

    PM POSHAN Scheme is a centrally sponsored scheme under which one hot cooked meal is served to 11.20 crore students studying in Balvatika and classes I to VIII, in 10.36 lakh Government and Government-aided schools on all school-days. The Scheme aims at providing nutritional support and enhancing school participation of students.

    Under the PM POSHAN Scheme, ‘Material Cost’ is provided for procurement of following ingredients required for cooking the meals:

    Ingredients

    Per student per meal quantity

    Bal Vatika & Primary

    Upper Primary

    Pulses

    20 gm

    30 gm

    Vegetables

    50 gm

    75 gm

    Oil

    5 gm

    7.5 gm

    Spices & Condiments

    As per need

    As per need

    Fuel

    As per need

    As per need

    The Labour Bureau, Ministry of Labour provides data on inflation for these items under the PM POSHAN basket on the basis of Consumer Price Index – Rural Labourers (CPI-RL) in consonance with CPI index for PM POSHAN and accordingly CPI index for PM POSHAN basket has been worked out. The CPI-RL is constructed by Labour Bureau, Chandigarh on the basis of collecting continuous monthly prices from the sample of 600 villages spread over 20 States of the country.

    On the basis of inflation index provided by the Labour Bureau, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has enhanced the ‘Material Cost’ by 9.50 %. The new rates will be applicable across all the States and UTs w.e.f. 01.05.2025. The Central Government will bear the additional cost of Rs 954 crore approximately in FY 2025-26 due to this enhancement. The per student per day Material cost is as under: –

    (in Rs.)

    Classes

    Existing material cost

    Enhanced material cost w.e.f. 01.05.2025

    Enhancement

    Bal Vatika 

    6.19

    6.78

    0.59

    Primary

    6.19

    6.78

    0.59

    Upper Primary

    9.29

    10.17

    0.88

    These rates of Material Cost are the minimum mandatory rates, however, States / UTs are free to contribute more than their prescribed share, as some States/UTs have been contributing more than their minimum mandatory share from their own resources for providing meals with augmented nutrition under the PM POSHAN Scheme.

    In addition to the Material Cost, the Govt. of India provides about 26 lakh MT foodgrains through Food Corporation of India. The Govt. of India bears 100% cost of foodgrains including subsidy of approx. Rs. 9000 crore per annum and 100% transportation cost of foodgrains from FCI depot to schools. The per meal cost after adding all components including foodgrains cost under the scheme comes to approx. Rs 12.13 for Bal Vatika and Primary classes and Rs 17.62 for upper primary classes.

    *****

    MV/AK

    (Release ID: 2120666) Visitor Counter : 37

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at Citi Hong Kong Macro Investor Conference 2025 (English only) (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the Citi Hong Kong Macro Investor Conference 2025 today (April 10):
     
    Paul (Head of Markets for Japan, Asia North and Australia of Citi, Mr Paul Smith), Aveline (Chief Executive Officer of Citi Hong Kong and Macau, Ms Aveline San), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good morning. 
     
         It is a pleasure to join you today at the Citi Hong Kong Macro Investor Conference 2025. Allow me to first express my gratitude to Citi for bringing such a distinguished group of investors, economists, strategists and senior executives from around the world to Hong Kong.
     
         This forum for dialogue and thought-provoking discussions is particularly timely as we face a trade war marked by ruthless imposition of tariffs. Allow me to share with you our position and response to these challenges.
     
    Impact of unilateral tariff measures
     
         Let me make it clear that the so-called “reciprocal tariffs” imposed by the United States on its trading partners are fundamentally wrong – politically, economically, and historically.
     
         These sweeping tariffs are disrupting global supply chains, inflating costs for both businesses and consumers, and creating significant uncertainty for cross-border investments. While “economic nuclear winter” may be an extreme term, we are certainly witnessing challenges to the global trading system unseen in a century.
     
         Most economists agree that the American public, especially those at the grassroots level, will bear the brunt of rising inflation as tariffs increase costs for groceries and daily necessities. Many financial institutions have revised downward their growth forecasts for the US (United States) and the global economy, with some even predicting a recession for both.
     
         China, as a major economy, has wide policy room and a range of tools to mitigate these impacts. Full details of the measures are yet to be seen, but our country has made its stance clear: we are open to resolving trade conflicts through dialogue based on mutual respect, not intimidation.
     
         Ultimately, these developments will reinforce geo-economic fragmentation. We are likely to see three major regional blocs emerge: first, the Asia-Pacific; second, India, the Middle East, and Europe; and third, the Americas.
     
    Resilience of Hong Kong’s financial markets
     
         Now, turning to Hong Kong, I want to highlight that despite the high volatility in the stock market, our financial system has shown strong resilience.
     
         This Monday, when we experienced a significant drop in the stock market, two key points are worth noting. 
     
         First, trading activity was robust, with substantial buying and selling interests. The bid-ask spread stayed very tight, signaling strong underlying liquidity. All margin calls were met on time, with no signs of stress. 
     
         Second, the Hong Kong dollar remained strong, indicating there was no capital flight. Our Linked Exchange Rate System continues to function effectively, and the money market is operating smoothly.
     
         The Hang Seng Index has started to recover since Monday, and overall, Hong Kong’s financial market continues to operate effectively. Rest assured that our financial regulators are conducting real-time, round-the-clock surveillance across markets. No systemic irregularities have been detected. We will remain vigilant and agile, and ready to take appropriate measures, if needed.
     
    Responding with composure
     
         In the short term, we will implement a suite of measures to support our businesses. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority is working closely with the banking sector to ensure that SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) have the liquidity they need. In fact, banks have set aside over US$50 billion for this purpose. We are also supporting these businesses in opening up new markets in the Mainland, the Middle East, and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries, including funding support for marketing and brand building. Additionally, we will help them embrace digital transformation to enhance their competitiveness and e-commerce capabilities.
     
         While these short-term measures are essential, our long-term strategy focuses on economic diversification. Several key strategies will guide us.
     
         First, we will leverage our strengths as an international trade centre. With geo-economic fragmentation, China will likely drive more outbound investments and strengthen trade ties with regions like ASEAN, the Middle East and even Europe. Economy is the top priority of the Central Government, and foreign businesses and investments are welcome. This was evident in President Xi’s recent meetings with both international business leaders and domestic private entrepreneurs.
     
         Hong Kong’s unique connectivity with both the Mainland and the world positions us as an ideal gateway and platform for foreign businesses entering the Mainland market, and for Mainland enterprises going global. Hong Kong will be the hub where Mainland and global companies can establish their regional or international headquarters, corporate treasury centres and supply chain management centres.
     
         Second, there will be new opportunities for Hong Kong as an IFC (international financial centre). Given the current geopolitical landscape, Hong Kong is naturally becoming the preferred fundraising market for Mainland companies. Currently, there are over 100 major companies waiting to list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
     
         And the DeepSeek moment has prompted international investors to reassess China’s technological capabilities and re-evaluate the values of related companies. We believe that more tech companies from the Mainland will list in Hong Kong, and the liquidity of our stock market will be greatly enhanced.
     
         We are also exploring new sources of capital, particularly from the Middle East. Last year marked a milestone with two ETFs (exchange-traded funds) investing in the Hong Kong market listed on the Saudi Exchange. We will encourage quality issuers from the Middle East and Southeast Asia to consider dual primary or secondary listings in Hong Kong.
     
         Finally, at the heart of our long-term economic transformation is innovation and technology, in particular artificial intelligence (AI).
     
         In my Budget this year, I outlined our vision to develop AI as a core industry for Hong Kong. We are pushing forward on five key fronts: supercomputing capabilities, algorithms, data, capital and talent.
     
         To fast-track our innovation and technology ambition, we need innovative enterprises with cutting-edge technologies. We are targeting four key industries: AI and data science, life and health technology, fintech, and advanced manufacturing and new energy. With the support of the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, we have attracted over 80 such enterprises to Hong Kong, which together will invest around US$60 billion in our city, creating about 20,000 jobs.
     
         We recognise the importance of patient capital in this journey. That’s why we established the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited (HKIC). Serving as patient capital, the HKIC invests in and guides market capital to support nascent-stage ventures and sectors of tomorrow. It seeks to build a vibrant ecosystem comprising the Government, industry, academia, research and investment sectors.  At the same time, it seeks reasonable risk-adjusted financial returns over the medium to long term. To date, it has invested in more than 100 projects, achieving a 1 to 4 co-investment ratio – meaning that for every dollar the HKIC invested, it has attracted four dollars from private investors to follow.
     
         With the development in the Northern Metropolis and collaboration with Shenzhen and nearby cities, we are confident that Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area will emerge as a global financial and innovation centre. 
     
    Conclusion: confidence and opportunity
     
         Ladies and gentlemen, we are navigating truly challenging times. The obstacles posed by trade war and geo-economic fragmentation are daunting. However, I want to reassure you that Hong Kong remains steadfastly committed to the “one country, two systems” principle and all the advantages it entails: we will continue to be a free port, maintain our free trade policy, and guarantee the free flow of capital, goods, information, and people. We provide what investors seek: policy clarity, consistency and credibility.
     
         And Hong Kong offers even more: market access, capital, talent and an unparalleled lifestyle – the Rugby Sevens, Coldplay, Art Basel, along with our stunning hiking trails, coastlines, and a vibrant culinary scene featuring 200 Michelin-recommended restaurants. These elements create a unique international metropolitan fabric, making Hong Kong a great city for global talent to live, work and raise a family.
     
         Thank you once again to Citi for hosting this Conference. I wish you all fruitful discussions and a rewarding time here in Hong Kong.
     
         Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 4th Joint Working Group Meeting on Tourism Cooperation between India and Japan

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 10:29AM by PIB Delhi

    The 4th Joint Working Group (JWG) Meeting on Tourism Cooperation between India and Japan was held on April 8, 2025, in New Delhi. The meeting was co-chaired by Ms. Mugdha Sinha, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and Mr. HARAIKAWA Naoya, Commissioner, Japan Tourism Agency (JTA). Officials and private stakeholders from both countries took part, including representatives from airlines, tourism and travel associations and Government institutions. Key organizations included Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), JTTRI, Japan Airlines and ANA from the Japanese side. The Indian delegation comprised of Ministry of External Affairs, Civil Aviation, Education, NCHMCT, ICCR and private stakeholders like Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), Association of Buddhist Tour Operators (ABTO). The meeting focused on finding new ways to work together and enhance tourism ties between the two nations. Minister of Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Sekhawat, hosted a Welcome Dinner for the Japanese delegation.

    The Co- Chairs of the two countries exchanged notes on the profile of the visitors and delved into the data insights of the tourists travelling between the two countries, including to Buddhist destinations, in order to undertake suitable policy interventions to make the destinations more attractive for the millennial tourists.  H.E. ONO Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan to India, emphasized on the strong cultural ties and mutual benefits of enriched tourism between the two countries.

    Key discussion points during the meeting focused on expanding bilateral tourism, with initiatives such as promoting Buddhist sites in India to Japanese tourists, improving air connectivity and encouraging Japanese student visits to the country. The meeting also explored increased private sector involvement and strategies to harness media and influencer engagements for boosting tourist flow.

    Delegation from each side shared valuable inputs and discussed new investment opportunities to strengthen co-operation in tourism sector between both nations. The collaborative spirit and commitment demonstrated by both the sides during the meeting is expected to develop a more vibrant tourism ecosystem, contributing significantly to the economic and cultural exchange between India and Japan. India also informed the Japanese delegation about the potential of partnerships with them for creating uniquely curated itineraries for the Japanese tourists in the recently revamped Incredible India digital portal. It was also indicated that the Ministry of Tourism is in the process of launchin
    g the Incredible India mobile App shortly.

    The meeting concluded on a positive note with mutual assurances of ongoing dialogue, further collaborations and a reinforced commitment to leveraging tourism as a bridge for enhancing bilateral relations and mutual prosperity. India also intimated the Japanese delegation about its plans of participation at the World Expo, Osaka, 2025 from 22nd – 28th September 2025 for a broader outreach effort for generating greater footfalls of foreign tourists to the country and wished them good luck for the forthcoming mega event.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2120654) Visitor Counter : 12

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Navkar Mahamantra Divas: Celebrating Mahavir Jayanti

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 10:09AM by PIB Delhi

    “The literature of Jainism is the backbone of India’s intellectual grandeur. Preserving this knowledge is our duty”- Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

    India reverently celebrates Mahavir Jayanti, a day that resonates with deep spiritual significance and profound peace, as it commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. More than a festival, it is a heartfelt tribute to a life devoted to compassion, self-restraint, and truth. In a world often clouded by conflict and chaos, Lord Mahavir’s eternal message of ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), and inner awakening shines brighter than ever, guiding countless souls toward a more mindful and harmonious existence.

    This year, the spirit of Mahavir Jayanti was powerfully invoked through the inauguration of Navkar Mahamantra Divas by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 9.

    “Navkar Mantra is not just a mantra but the core of our faith and the essence of life.”

    The Navkar Mantra, central to Jain prayer, is more than a collection of sacred syllables, it is a rhythmic flow of energy, stability, and light.

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, reflecting on his own roots in Gujarat, spoke of how Jain Acharyas shaped his understanding from an early age. This personal connection reinforced his message that Jainism is not merely historical but deeply relevant, especially in an India that seeks to grow without losing its roots.

    This relevance is embodied in the architectural and cultural fabric of modern India, be it the depiction of Sammed Shikhar at the new Parliament’s entrance or the return of ancient Tirthankara idols from overseas. These are not artifacts of nostalgia; they are living symbols of India’s spiritual continuity.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi described climate change as today’s biggest crisis, saying its solution is a sustainable lifestyle, which the Jain community has practiced for centuries. The Jain community has been living the principles of simplicity, restraint, and sustainability for centuries. Lord Mahavir’s timeless teachings align beautifully with Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), a national call for sustainable living.

    Jainism’s emblem, “Parasparopagraho Jivanam”, meaning the mutual interdependence of all life offers a deeply ecological worldview.

    Nine Resolutions for a New India

    In a poetic tribute to the power of “nine” in Indian and Jain traditions, the Prime Minister proposed nine resolutions anchored in the Navkar Mantra, each a commitment to knowledge, action, harmony, and rooted progress. He noted how repeating the mantra nine times, or in its multiples like 27, 54, or 108 represents spiritual completeness and intellectual clarity.

    First Resolution: Water Conservation– Emphasizing the need to value and save every drop of water.

    Second Resolution: Plant a tree in Mother’s Name– Planting of over 100 crore trees in recent months and urging everyone to plant a tree in their mother’s name and nurture it like her blessings.

    Third Resolution: Cleanliness Mission – Understanding the importance and contributing to cleanliness in every street, neighbourhood and city.

    Fourth Resolution: Vocal for Local– Promotion of locally made products, turning them global and supporting items that carry the essence of Indian soil and the sweat of Indian workers.

    Fifth Resolution: Explore India– To explore India’s diverse states, cultures, and regions before traveling abroad, emphasizing the uniqueness and value of every corner of the country.

    Sixth Resolution: Adopting Natural Farming–  The Jain principle of “One living being should not harm another”, and for freeing Mother Earth from chemicals, supporting farmers, and promoting natural farming.

    Seventh Resolution: Healthy Lifestyle–  Following Indian dietary traditions, including millets (Shri Anna), reducing oil consumption by 10%, and maintaining health through moderation and restraint.

    Eighth Resolution: Incorporating Yoga and Sports– Making yoga and sports a part of daily life, whether at home, work, school, or parks, to ensure physical health and mental peace.

    Ninth Resolution: Helping the Poor– Assisting the underprivileged, whether by holding a hand or filling a plate, as the true essence of service.

    These resolutions align with the principles of Jainism and the vision of a sustainable and harmonious future.

    Jain literature, etched in Prakrit and Pali, holds profound treasures of thought. The government’s initiative to grant these languages classical status and digitize Jain manuscripts under the Gyan Bharatam Mission is a tribute to this ancient wisdom.

    In March 2024, the Ministry of Minority Affairs approved projects under Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) Scheme for the establishment of ‘Centre for Jain Studies’ in Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) in Indore. With financial assistance of ₹25 crore, this centre aims to preserve and promote Jain heritage, foster interdisciplinary research, and enhance global understanding of Jainism as a way of life. It will support digitization of ancient Jain texts, facilitate academic research, and serve as a hub for students and scholars to engage with Jain teachings, traditions, and practices, while also promoting community engagement and awareness.

    The Ministry of Minority Affairs in the past also approved a project focused on preserving Jain culture through digitization of manuscripts, knowledge sharing, and promoting interdisciplinary research on Jain traditions.

    On Mahavir Jayanti in April 2024, a commemorative stamp and coin on the occasion of 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav.

    As India marches on the path of becoming a developed nation, Lord Mahavir’s message of inner conquest, compassion, and truth offers a guiding light. In the harmony of the Navkar Mantra, in the discipline of the Sadhus, and in the interdependence of life itself, not just for individuals, but for the whole world.

    References:

    Download in PDF

    ***

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kritika Rane

    (Release ID: 2120649) Visitor Counter : 113

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Armed Forces must operate jointly & remain future-ready in today’s ever-evolving multi-domain environment: Raksha Mantri at DSSC, Wellington

    Source: Government of India

    Armed Forces must operate jointly & remain future-ready in today’s ever-evolving multi-domain environment: Raksha Mantri at DSSC, Wellington

    “Govt transforming the military into a technologically-advanced combat-ready force”

    “Building an indigenous future-ready defence ecosystem is a strategic necessity”

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 12:52PM by PIB Delhi

    “Armed Forces must operate jointly and remain future-ready in today’s ever-evolving multi-domain environment where cyber, space & information warfare etc. are as potent as conventional operations,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while addressing the Armed Forces officers of India and friendly countries during the Convocation Ceremony of the 80th Staff Course of Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington, Tamil Nadu on April 10, 2025.

    Raksha Mantri pointed out that today’s global geopolitics is being redefined by three key metrics: a major pivot towards prioritising national security, a technological tsunami sweeping the global landscape, and accelerating innovation. He urged the officers to study the nuances of these trends in-depth to stay ahead on strategic-military change curve, adding that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government is leaving no stone unturned to transform the Armed Forces into a technologically-advanced combat-ready force capable of multi-domain integrated operations.

    Highlighting that Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies are revolutionising deterrence and war-fighting in critical ways, Shri Rajnath Singh termed the power of technological innovation in combat theatres as breathtaking. “In the Ukraine-Russia conflict, drones have virtually emerged as a new arm, if not a transformative science. The majority of losses of soldiers and equipment have been attributed neither to traditional artillery nor to armour but to drones. Similarly, space capacities in the Low Earth Orbit are transforming military intelligence, persistent surveillance, positioning, targeting and communications, thus taking combat to a new high,” he said.

    Raksha Mantri stressed that the world is in the age of Grey Zone and Hybrid warfare where cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and economic warfare have become tools that can achieve politico-military aims without a single shot being fired. He added that India faces persistent threats along its borders, which are further compounded by the challenge of proxy war and terrorism emanating from its neighbourhood.

    Shri Rajnath Singh also spoke of the impact of the conflict in West Asia and the geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific on the overall security calculus, in addition to non-traditional security threats such as natural disasters and climate change. He stressed on the need to vigorously pursue the transformation of the Armed Forces to remain capable and relevant for future wars, stating that PM Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 rests firmly on two foundational pillars – Surakshit Bharat and Sashakt Bharat.

    Raksha Mantri pitched for the development and modernisation of the Armed Forces through self-reliance. “Lessons of the ongoing conflicts teach us that building a resilient, indigenous, and future-ready defence technological & manufacturing ecosystem is not an option, but a strategic necessity. There is a need to develop low-cost high-tech solutions and enhance the fighting capability of the Armed Forces. Our forces must not only keep pace with technological changes, but also lead it,” he said.

    Shri Rajnath Singh also batted for enhanced synergy among all components to ensure national security. Fostering a ‘Whole of Nation’ approach while undertaking actions in the entire spectrum of diplomatic, informational, military, economic and technological domains is key to ensuring success in this endeavour, he said.

    Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘MAHASAGAR’ (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) for the Global South, Raksha Mantri stated that achieving a better future and prosperity for the nations will always remain a collective pursuit. “Increasing connectivities and dependencies among countries and people implies that the multitude of challenges are better faced together than individually. Mutual interests and synergies will help us achieve our goal at sub regional, regional and even global levels,” he said.

    Shri Rajnath Singh exhorted the officers to focus on five ‘A’s – Awareness, Ability, Adaptability, Agility and Ambassadors – to tackle future challenges. “As warfighters and protectors of national security, you need to remain aware of the environment and its implications. You must acquire the ability and skill set required by future leaders. You must imbibe adaptability and agility as key virtues. The battlefield of tomorrow will require leaders who can adapt to unforeseen circumstances, leverage technology to their advantage and come out with innovative solutions. You must become Ambassadors of your respective Armed Forces. Be an ambassador of change and the perfect role model amongst the society at large,” he added.

    Raksha Mantri began his address by expressing solidarity and support of the people of India to Myanmar and Thailand in the wake of the recent massive earthquake. “India has always stood by its friends as a first responder in times of crisis and we consider it as our duty to be able to deliver timely relief to the people of Myanmar,” he said.

    The 80thStaff Course comprises 479 student officers, including 38 personnel from 26 friendly countries. Three women officers are also participating in the course.

    Ahead of the ceremony, Shri Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the Madras Regiment War Memorial and paid homage to the bravehearts. He also interacted with the veterans, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the nation. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan was among the dignitaries present on the occasion.

    Established in 1948, DSSC is a premier Tri-service training institution that imparts professional education to select middle-level officers of the Indian Armed Forces and friendly countries. It aims to enhance their professional competencies for assuming higher responsibilities. Over the years, more than 19,000 Indian officers and 2,000 international officers have graduated from DSSC, many of whom have risen to become heads of states and military forces worldwide.

    ***

    VK/SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2120678) Visitor Counter : 90

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister pays tributes to Bhagwan Mahavir on Mahavir Jayanti

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 8:44AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi paid tributes to Bhagwan Mahavir on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti today. Shri Modi said that Bhagwan Mahavir always emphasised on non-violence, truth and compassion, and that his ideals give strength to countless people all around the world. The Prime Minister also noted that last year, the Government conferred the status of Classical Language on Prakrit, a decision which received a lot of appreciation.

    In a post on X, the Prime Minister said;

    “We all bow to Bhagwan Mahavir, who always emphasised on non-violence, truth and compassion. His ideals give strength to countless people all around the world. His teachings have been beautifully preserved and popularised by the Jain community. Inspired by Bhagwan Mahavir, they have excelled in different walks of life and contributed to societal well-being. 

    Our Government will always work to fulfil the vision of Bhagwan Mahavir. Last year, we conferred the status of Classical Language on Prakrit, a decision which received a lot of appreciation.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2120638) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News